Loveland Magazine

Library Fine Amnesty Day

 

On May 8 our Library received a National Medal for Library Service from the Institute for Museum and Library Service (IMLS). This award is the nation’s highest honor recognizing museums and libraries for their service to the community.

To celebrate this national recognition and thank our community for their support, we're holding a Fine Amnesty Day on Wednesday, May 15. On Fine Amnesty Day, outstanding fines will be removed from library cards. The fines may be the result of items renewed or returned prior to May 15th and items returned or renewed on May 15th.

How to participate in Fine Amnesty Day on May 15

• Stop by the Main Library or any of our neighborhood branches during regular service hours.
• Call 513-369-6900 between 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
• Send us an email.
• Use our "Text a Librarian" service

On May 15, an online form will be available that can be used to notify us that you have outstanding fines on your library card that should be considered for removal.

What will not be included in Fine Amnesty Day

• Fines on items that are still checked out. The items on your card must be returned or renewed in order for the fines to be cleared.
• Fines paid before May 15 will not be refunded.

Fine Amnesty Day is just one small way to thank our community for the use and support that resulted in this national recognition. Without our supportive community and wonderful staff our Library would not be the tremendous community asset it is. This award belongs to all of us. Thank you.

May showers may bring flowers

 

Historic downtown Loveland on Friday afternoon

Wenstrup's Facebook post on IRS

 

I find it unconscionable that the IRS was profiling Americans for their political persuasions, in some cases going as far as to target groups for having “patriot” in their name. Playing politics with our tax code is not acceptable and a muted apology a year later is not enough.

Partisan bureaucrats, who are supposed to be acting in the public’s interest, must be held accountable.

IRS Owes Conservative Groups Far More Than A Mere Apology For Their Unfair Treatment

 

U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) released the following statement following the Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) apology for subjecting Tea Party groups across Ohio to burdensome, additional investigations during the 2012 election to see if they were violating their tax-exempt status with no provocation or cause:

“Although I am happy that it has finally admitted to placing politics over policy, the IRS owes conservative groups far more than a mere apology for their unfair treatment.  It is crystal clear that additional safeguards are in order to prevent this obtrusive behavior in the future.  This overt and excessive harassment of groups targeted for their political beliefs is despicable, and many questions remain. How were ‘low-level workers in Cincinnati’ able to initiate practices that completely undermine the IRS’s promise to treat all groups with an even hand?  Even more, what were they hoping to do with the copious personal information they obtained from these groups?  Having led IRS reform in the ‘90s with then-Senator Bob Kerrey, I am sorely disappointing to see this agency head down this path yet again.  I expect quick answers from the IRS as to how this happened in the first place and what steps are being taken to ensure that it never happens again.”

Last year, Portman, along with Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT), led a letter to the IRS urging them to prevent politics from playing a role in any action taken on non-profit 501(c)(4) organizations.  The lawmakers questioned the recent selective enforcement on tax-exempt organizations and requested a detailed analysis of the agency’s process for the approval and renewal of a tax-exempt designation under section 501(c)(4).

“It is critical that the public have confidence that federal tax compliance efforts are pursued in a fair, even-handed, and transparent manner – without regard to politics of any kind,” wrote the Senators.

They continued, “It is imperative that organizations applying for tax-exempt status are able to rely on a consistent and foreseeable review structure from the IRS. Any significant changes to the IRS review process should be implemented only after appropriate notice and opportunity for comment from the public and affected parties.”

 

The full text of the letter is below.  Read a signed copy here.

 

 

Cincinnati IRS office Cincinnati targeted groups with “tea party” or “patriot” in their names

 

The Internal Revenue Service on Friday apologized for targeting groups with “tea party” or “patriot” in their names, confirming long-standing accusations by some conservatives that their applications for tax-exempt status were being improperly delayed and scrutinized. They constituted about one-quarter of the 300 groups who were flagged for additional analysis by employees of the IRS tax-exempt unit’s main office in Cincinnati.   Read on at Washington Post...

Stamp Out Hunger food drive in Loveland this Saturday

 

Feeding Loveland’s hungry - learn how you can help

 

Every second Saturday in May letter carriers in more than 10,000 cities and towns across America deliver much more than mail when they walk and drive along their postal routes. They also collect the goodness and compassion of their postal customers who participate in the NALC Stamp Out Hunger National Food Drive – the largest one-day food drive in the nation and probably the world.

Loveland's letter carriers will be collecting, and the food they collect will be delivered to our "First Class" L.I.F.E. food pantry located in the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church on Lebanon Road.

Led by letter carriers represented by the National Association of Letter Carriers (AFL-CIO), with the help of rural letter carriers, other postal employees and numerous other volunteers, the drive has resulted in delivery of more than one billion pounds of donations to community food banks and pantries over the past 20 years.

Carriers collect non-perishable food donations left by mailboxes and in post offices and deliver them to local community food banks, pantries and shelters. Nearly 1,500 local NALC branches in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands are involved in the drive.

The U.S. Postal Service and Campbell Soup Company are major supporters of the drive. Campbell Soup also earmarked an additional 1 million pound canned food donation to the drive. Other supporters are AARP, Feeding America, Publix, Valassis/Red Plum, Cox Target Media and its Valpak Direct Marketing Systems, the nationwide direct mail marketing firm, which promotes the drive on 40 million packets delivered to postal customers.

The drive also relies on the backing of the National Rural Letter Carriers Association, the Feeding America food bank network, the United Way of America and its local United Ways, the AFL-CIO Community Services network, Uncle Bob's Self Storage and countless local sponsors.

All citizens need do is to place a box or can of non-perishable food next to their mailbox before their letter carrier delivers mail every second Saturday in May. The carrier will do all the rest. The food is taken back to a postal station, sorted, and then delivered to an area food bank or pantry. There it is available for needy families.

With more than 50 million people facing hunger every day in America, including nearly 17 million children, this drive is one way people can help those right in their own city or town who need help.

The Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive has received a number of accolades over the years, including two Presidential Certificates of Achievement.

Help the U.S. Postal Service stamp out hunger!

Milford School levy passes

 

FOR THE TAX LEVY - 6,420, 59.79%

AGAINST THE TAX LEVY - 4,318, 40.21%

Thirty-six per-cent of registered Clermont County voters cast ballots in Tuesday's vote on the 4.5 mill Milford school levy. None of the 11 registered Hamilton County voters went to the polls.

 

From Dr. Robert Farrell, Superintendent:

"We are so grateful to our Milford School community for  continuing to support our school district. My thanks go out to all those residents who are willing to make this financial sacrifice during tough economic times. We value the trust they have placed in Milford Schools and will continue to be fiscally responsible with their tax dollars.  The district has shown that we can get “Excellent” results on below-average spending and we will continue to strive for this goal.  We want to give the Milford community a district they can be proud of for years to come."

The election results show that the Milford Exempted Village School District levy has passed by 60% of the vote. The current report from Clermont County Board of Elections shows 6,420 for the levy and 4,318 against the levy.

 

 From Dr. Robert Farrell, Superintendent:

"We are so grateful to our Milford School community for  continuing to support our school district. My thanks go out to all those residents who are willing to make this financial sacrifice during tough economic times. We value the trust they have placed in Milford Schools and will continue to be fiscally responsible with their tax dollars.  The district has shown that we can get “Excellent” results on below-average spending and we will continue to strive for this goal.  We want to give the Milford community a district they can be proud of for years to come."

- See more at: http://www.milfordschools.org/districtNewsArticle.aspx?artID=1079#sthash.zN6V6M4B.dpuf

The election results show that the Milford Exempted Village School District levy has passed by 60% of the vote. The current report from Clermont County Board of Elections shows 6,420 for the levy and 4,318 against the levy.

 

 From Dr. Robert Farrell, Superintendent:

"We are so grateful to our Milford School community for  continuing to support our school district. My thanks go out to all those residents who are willing to make this financial sacrifice during tough economic times. We value the trust they have placed in Milford Schools and will continue to be fiscally responsible with their tax dollars.  The district has shown that we can get “Excellent” results on below-average spending and we will continue to strive for this goal.  We want to give the Milford community a district they can be proud of for years to come."

- See more at: http://www.milfordschools.org/districtNewsArticle.aspx?artID=1079#sthash.zN6V6M4B.dpuf

Symmes Honors Veterans Friday May 24th

 

Join us as we honor our veterans and observe the importance of the Memorial Day holiday on Friday, May 24th from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Home of the Brave Park, 11605 Lebanon Road.

For more information, please contact the Township office at (513)683-6644.

Autism Speaks’ 6th Annual Walk Now for Autism Speaks

 

 

Autism Speaks’ 6th Annual Walk Now for Autism Speaks

Saturday - May 18, 2013 at Coney Island

Organizers hope to raise $400,000 to support local and national efforts of autism research, awareness, advocacy and family services

 

The Sixth Annual Cincinnati Walk Now for Autism Speaks will increase awareness about the growing autism epidemic and raise funds for research, family services and advocacy in Cincinnati and nationwide.  The day includes an optional 1.5 mile walk, family entertainment, children’s activities, community resource fair with educational resources for families affected by autism and the Coney Island Classic Rides free of charge.

 

WHERE:    Coney Island, 6201 Kellogg Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45228

Jenn Jordan with radio Q102 to host event.

8 AM - Registration Begins

10 AM - Walk Starts - Walk Route: Approximately 1 Mile

11 AM - 1 PM - Coney Classic Rides open

 

More than 8,000 walkers and supporters will come together to raise much-needed funds for critical autism research and to increase awareness about a growing health crisis that now affects 1 in every 88 children. All proceeds from the event will benefit Autism Speaks, the nation’s leading autism advocacy organization.  The Cincinnati Walk is expected to raise over $400,000.

Autism is a complex brain disorder that inhibits a person’s ability to communicate and develop social relationships.  Autism Speaks is a national autism advocacy organization dedicated to increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders, to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and cure for autism, and to advocating for the needs of affected families. 

For more information about the Cincinnati Walk Now for Autism Speaks event, visit www.WalkNowForAutismSpeaks.org/Cincinnati. 

Please register on-line to walk, support a walker or team, or register in person at the event.

 

Loveland announces three construction projects

 

Loveland, Ohio - The City has announced receiving 0% interest loans with twenty-year terms from the Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC) for two major infrastructure replacement projects. The City also received grant funding from the Municipal Road Funds (MRF) program to repave a portion of West Loveland Avenue.

The first OPWC project is a $289,000 water line replacement with up-sized mains and additional fire hydrants on Adams Avenue, Washington Avenue, Jefferson Avenue, and on Twightwee Road between Adams and Washington Avenues in Symmes Township, an area served by the city. Some road resurfacing is also part of the project. The construction is expected to start as early as mid-July.

The second OPWC project is a $279,600 storm sewer replacement project with up-sized mains and new extensions in the Stoneybrook neighborhood, beginning on Mohican Drive and continuing to the outfall east of Highridge Drive. Roadway resurfacing on Mohican Drive between Miamiview and Iroquois Drives is also part of the project. This construction project is also expected to start as early as mid-July.

The third project is repair and repaving of West Loveland Avenue between Pheasant Lake Drive and the West Corporation limit near Shingleoak Drive. This $104,150 repaving project is funded by an MRF grant.

The City of Loveland will be holding an Open House at City Hall, 120 W. Loveland Avenue on Wednesday, May 29, at 7 PM to discuss the plans and answer questions about the projects.

For more information about these projects and others in Loveland, contact Cindy Klopfenstein, City Engineer, at 683-1050 or by e-mail at cklopfenstein@lovelandoh.com.

Funding Available for Hamilton County Communities

 

This program is tailored made for Loveland

 

Who will become the Loveland Ambassador?

Watch this video and start dreaming about Loveland

 

Hamilton County Public Health (HCPH) has announced the availability of WeTHRIVE! grants offering technical assistance and funding for Hamilton County communities to plan for the development of policy and environmental changes that will promote or sustain healthy initiatives.

Funding for this project is available through the Robert Wood Johnson, Healthy Kids, Healthy Communities grant. HCPH is one of 40 grant-awarded communities charged with implementing strategies for improved nutrition, increased physical activity and reduced obesity. WeTHRIVE! is a county-wide movement focused on changing social norms by creating policy, systems and environmental changes with the ultimate goal of reducing obesity and other chronic diseases. More information can be found at WatchUsThrive.org.

HCPH will mentor funded communities from June 17, 2013 through October 17, 2013.
Communities funded will:

• Establish a wellness committee
• Complete a community health assessment
• Adopt a wellness resolution
• Develop a health action plan that includes policy and environmental change strategies that will promote and sustain community health promotion initiatives.
• Receive $1,500 after completion of planning grant criteria
• The application and instructions can be found at: www.watchusthrive.org/minigrant.aspx

HCPH will hold two conference calls to review the grant application guidelines:

• Wednesday, May 8, 2013
  6-7 p.m.
• Friday, May, 10, 2013
  1- 2 p.m.

To participate, dial: 1- 877-820-7831. When prompted, enter the room number: 998103#. Land lines only, please. Call attendance is not required.

Communities in Hamilton County with community councils that have not previously received WeTHRIVE! funding are eligible to apply for this opportunity. Please see the funding announcement for additional eligibility requirements.

 

Captain Dennis Rahe graduates FBI National Academy

 

During the April 23 council meeting, Loveland Police Chief Tim Sabransky talked about Captain Dennis Rahe's graduation at the FBI National Academy.

 

Binford's pedestrian safety program gets partial set-back

 

 

Autumn Binford at the April 23 Loveland council meeting

 

 

Binford doesn't feel all is lost

 

Loveland, Ohio - Autumn Binford, the eighth-grade Loveland Middle School student who has proposed a culture of pedestrian safety, and an improved crosswalk near her school received a set-back at the April 23 council meeting. All further discussion on the topic of improving the crosswalk at the intersection of Lebanon Road, at Preakness and Arcaro, was removed from the councilmantic worksheet by a 4-3 vote. The vote came after Binford pointed to a recent memorandum from City Manager Thomas Carroll recommending that the pedestrian controlled Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons, called RRFB’s, that Binford first proposed earlier in the month, be purchased and installed at the intersection.

Linda Cox, Mark Fitzgerald, and Angie Settell voted against removing the agenda item. Mayor Rob Weisgerber, Vice Mayor, David Bednar, Paulette Leeper, and Brenton Zuch voted it removed. Since it was student government night, where Loveland High School students ran the meeting, the council members did not explain their vote. The students also voted in the same manner their council counter parts voted.

Opinions from the students varied, some praised Binford's plan to install the self activated lights. Binford had a quote in hand that actually was quite cheaper for the same type lights and included free installation, an option Carroll has rejected. Some students argued that the lights at the intersection would give younger, unattended children too much confidence in crossing the busy intersection.

Later in the meeting, some of the student council members praised Binford's campaign.
One victory for Binford was that a resolution was passed declaring May 12 - 18, 2013, as Crosswalk Safety Week in the City of Loveland. The resolution was amended during the meeting when student, Ciara O' Somachain asked that Binford be recognized in the resolution for her efforts. "WHEREAS, Loveland eighth grade student Autumn Binford has presented a plan to City Council to create a culture of pedestrian safety in the City of Loveland" was added to the resolution. Council-member Paulette Leeper voted against the amendment. *

A motion to install the lights was tabled at the previous meeting to give Carroll time to submit his report. Now that the report has been submitted the motion could come back to the council table at a future meeting.

Binford doesn't feel all is lost, and seemed to be redoubling her efforts. For instance, she plans to introduce solutions to the expressed fears that young, unattended children will enter the crosswalk before traffic stops. She proposes that crosswalk safety be a part of the city sponsored Senior Expo, and also asked the city to find a sponsor to purchase a large banner to be used across roadways. She also asked the high school students to help with her project by educating fellow drivers about state and local laws for intersections and crosswalks. She thanked the city manager for his report and recommendation.

To communicate with Autum Binford to offer help, solutions, or criticisms, she can be reached at lovelandcrosswalk@gmail.com.

*Read the unamended, Download Crosswalk Safety Week Resolution

** Download Carroll Crosswalk Report

 

 

 

 

 

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Autumn Binford: Loveland's news safety expert wants "Culture of Pedestrian Safety"

CORRECTION: Loveland Farmer's Market opens May 7

 

CORRECTION: Loveland Farmer's Market opens May 7

 

The summer season for the Loveland Farmer's Market runs weekly from 3 until 7 PM on Tuesdays, from May through October in Historic Loveland.

Summer Market: 2013 hours of operation will be every Tuesday from 3 PM until 7 PM from May through October.

Direction, Map, and Parking

The Loveland Farmers' Market is located in Historic Downtown Loveland in the Loveland Station parking area, across the street from Paxton's restaurant on one side and Ead's Fence on the other.

Milford School Levy on May 7 Ballot

 

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL) CURRENT OPERATING EXPENSES

MILFORD EXEMPTED VILLAGE SCHOOL DISTRICT

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of the Milford Exempted Village School District, Counties of Clermont and Hamilton, for the purpose of CURRENT OPERATING EXPENSES at a rate not exceeding four and five tenths (4.5) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to forty-five cents ($0.45) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2013, first due in calendar year 2014.

 

The information below is found on the Web Site of the Milford School District

Some facts about the 4.5 mill operating levy on May 7, 2013*
    •    The May operating levy is critical because the district lost more than $4 million in funding from the State of Ohio. A 4.5 mill levy will generate almost 4 million dollars to replace these funds.
    •    Preliminary data shows, even with a potential increase in state funding under Governor Kasich’s new proposal, the district still needs this operating levy. The best case scenario for Milford is that any increase in state funding could reduce the amount of reductions or extend the life of the levy.  More details will be shared once they become available.
    •    Because the levy did not pass in November 2012, Milford will not receive additional funding from real estate taxes this year. In order to ask for 4.5 mills again, the district had to make an additional $750,000 in cuts this school year and another $1.4 million in permanent cuts beginning in the 2013-14 school year.
    •    Through budget reductions and conservative spending, the district has made every effort to ask for the least amount of millage possible and 4.5 mills is the lowest operating levy request in the history of Milford Schools.
    •    A 4.5 mill operating levy will cost a homeowner $11.42 per month ($137 per year) on $100,000 of assessed property valuation.
    •    For more information, contact Debbie Caudle, District Treasurer, at caudle_d@milfordschools.org or call (513) 831-1314.

*More detailed information on district finances, the levy, and voter registration can be found in the following documents:

Video: Why do Milford Schools Need a Levy? (3:00 min)
Video: Milford Schools: What's at Stake? (1:48)
Levy Fact Sheet (pdf)
Summary of Budget Reductions (pdf)
Presentation on Finances (pdf)

 

Information about the levy is also currently on the Web Site of the Clermont Tea Party.

Some facts about the 4.5 mill operating levy on May 7, 2013*

• The May operating levy is critical because the district lost more than $4 million in funding from the State of Ohio. A 4.5 mill levy will generate almost 4 million dollars to replace these funds.

• Preliminary data shows, even with a potential increase in state funding under Governor Kasich’s new proposal, the district still needs this operating levy. The best case scenario for Milford is that any increase in state funding could reduce the amount of reductions or extend the life of the levy.  More details will be shared once they become available.

• Because the levy did not pass in November 2012, Milford will not receive additional funding from real estate taxes this year. In order to ask for 4.5 mills again, the district had to make an additional $750,000 in cuts this school year and another $1.4 million in permanent cuts beginning in the 2013-14 school year.

• Through budget reductions and conservative spending, the district has made every effort to ask for the least amount of millage possible and 4.5 mills is the lowest operating levy request in the history of Milford Schools.

• A 4.5 mill operating levy will cost a homeowner $11.42 per month ($137 per year) on $100,000 of assessed property valuation.

• For more information, contact Debbie Caudle, District Treasurer, at caudle_d@milfordschools.org or call (513) 831-1314. Information can also be found on the district website at www.milfordschools.org.

 

*More detailed information on district finances, the levy, and voter registration can be found in the following documents:

Video: Why do Milford Schools Need a Levy? (3:00 min)

Video: Milford Schools: What's at Stake? (1:48))

Levy Fact Sheet (pdf)

Summary of Budget Reductions (pdf)

Presentation on Finances (pdf)

- See more at: http://www.milfordschools.org/districtNewsArticle.aspx?artID=1014#sthash.Rrmg4jV9.dpuf

Another $1,500 raised to save historic black church

 

This LOVELAND MAGAZINE HD VIDEO was taken on April 13 at the Loveland Artists Studios on Main. It is from the fund raiser hosted by Loveland Magazine to garner support and additional dollars to preserve the Loveland Predestinarian Church at the end of Chestnut Street.

That night, the Loveland Predestinarian Church Preservation Committee raised about $1,500 in cash and pledges when four local authors spoke about their writing and musical guests entertained..

 If you would like to contribute time or money to saving the church from the wrecking ball contact Paula Aguah at: paula@pmoguah-law.com

 

 

 

Related articles

Robert Murphy Reads his poem "Emily, In anticipation of going home"

Focus on what is right, not who is right

Preservation Group Presents Plan for saving historic Black church

Meet four local authors this Saturday

Fundraiser for Predestinarian Church was unforgettable event

Miami Township Safety Fair

 

The Miami Township Fire/EMS, Police and Service departments will host their annual Safety Fair on Saturday, May 18^th from 10AM to 3 PM in the Kroger parking lot located at Mulberry Square (1093 State Route 28).

The Safety Fair will include displays, demonstrations and opportunities to ask questions of the Fire, EMS, Police and Service personnel.  There will also be police cars, ambulance and fire truck tours, an aerial tower, mass casuality trailer and rescue boat.

In addition, there will be giveaways for children and they will be able to tour the portable Life Safety Education Center.  For more information contact the Miami Township Fire/EMS at (513) 248-3700.

 

Miami Township Police Arrest Man for Felonious Assault of 60 Year Old Woman

 

Assault occurred in Kroger Parking Lot

The Miami Township Police Department has arrested a 23 year-old for the felonious assault of a sixty year old female while in the parking lot of Kroger located at 6388 Branch Hill –Guinea Pike.

The assault occurred on Monday April 29.

The victim and witnesses told police that the suspect was wearing a blue, wrestler style mask as he approached the sixty year old female as she was loading her groceries in her car.  He began beating on her back with a stick that was later recovered at the scene.  A witness saw the attack and yelled at the suspect, and then rammed a grocery cart into the suspect’s vehicle as a distraction.  The stick was then thrown at the witness. The suspect then got back in his blue, 1980’s model Chevrolet Camaro and left the parking lot.

The suspect was arrested around 10 PM Tuesday evening, charged with Felonious Assault, and taken to the Clermont County Jail.

Robert Murphy Reads his poem "Emily, In anticipation of going home"

 

This LOVELAND MAGAZINE VIDEO is local poet Robert Murphy reading his poem about Emily Dickinson during the fund raiser for the Loveland Predestinarian Church on April 13 at the offices of the Loveland Magazine TV Studio in the Loveland Artists Studios on Main. That night, the Loveland Predestinarian Church Preservation Committee raised about $1,500 in cash and pledges to restore the historic black church on Chestnut Street.

The local group hopes to save a historic black Loveland church from the wreaking ball. City Administrators are Considering Demolishing the 118 Year-old Historic Black Church that is owned by taxpayers.

In 2004, Poet, Robert Murphy founded Dos Madres Press. His poems have appeared in the literary periodical Smartish Pace, as well as the Colorado Review, the Notre Dame Review, The Cultural Society, Marsh Hawk Review, and the Chicago- based journal LVNG. He is the author of a chapbook, Not for You Alone, Life In The Ordovician: Selected Poems. He is a 2000 winner of the William Bronk Foundation prize for poetry.

"Emily, In anticipation of going home" is from Murphy's newest collection, From Behind the Blind.

 

Little Miami School District News

 

Salem to host Family Night May 2

Have a plate of spaghetti and listen to stories told by author/composer Rick Sowash at Salem Twp. Elementary School’s Family Night on May 2, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Read more here.

Fine arts festival returns!

Be on hand for the exciting return of “Rhythms & Renderings,” Little Miami’s district-wide fine arts festival on Saturday, May 4 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. See the schedule of events and read more here.

Time for a Pirate Parrrty!

Gather the crew and get them to the Panthers of the Caribbean Carnival on Friday, May 10 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Salem Twp. Elementary School. The event is open to all Little Miami families and is sponsored by the Salem Twp., Harlan-Butlerville and Hamilton-Maineville PTOs. Learn more about the event and find out how to get all-you-can-play game bracelets.

Summer opportunities abound

There’s no excuse for being bored this summer, considering all the summer camps and enrichment opportunities available to Little Miami students and their families. Check out a number of academic and leadership camps on the high school Guidance page, and take a look at a number of summer activities on the district’s Flyers page.

Bringing a classic to life

Students at Salem Twp. Primary School enjoyed a raucous rendition of “Rumpelstiltskin” recently as the Madcap Puppet troupe visited the school. See photos of the performance and video here.

NewsNote: The Hamilton-Maineville Kindergarten PTO Fun Run (both A.M. and P.M.) has been rescheduled for Friday, May 3.

If you live in Loveland, the air you breathe may put your health at risk

 

The American Lung Association's annual "State of the Air" report finds that air quality nationwide continues the long-term trend to much healthier air. The strongest progress came in lower levels of year-round particle pollution across much of the nation. Still, many cities that ranked among the most polluted had more unhealthy days of high ozone and short-term particle pollution than in the 2012 report.

 

In terms of Ozone pollution the Cincinnati-Middletown-Wilmington, OH-KY-IN  region is 14th worse place in the USA  to live.

 

In terms of year-round particle pollution the Cincinnati-Middletown-Wilmington, OH-KY-IN region is 14th worse place in the USA  to live.

 

"State of the Air 2013" is the Lung Association's 14th annual, national air quality "report card." It uses the most recent air pollution data, compiled by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the two most widespread types of pollution - ozone (smog) and particle pollution (PM 2.5, also known as soot). The report grades counties and ranks cities and counties based on their scores for ozone, year-round particle pollution and short-term particle pollution levels.

Read the full report... "State of the Air" – Much Progress but Challenges Remain

 

If you live in Hamilton County, the air you breathe may put your health at risk.

Ozone

Particle Pollution 24-hour

Particle Pollution Annual

 

If you live in Clermont County, the air you breathe may put your health at risk.

Ozone

Particle Pollution 24-hour

Particle Pollution Annual

If you live in Warren County, the air you breathe may put your health at risk.

Ozone

Particle Pollution 24-hour

Particle Pollution Annual

You can make a difference in the air that you breathe.

Take Action for Healthier Air

What Needs to be Done to Get Healthy Air —What do we need to do as a nation? How can you help clean up the air?

 

Tessa DeBra perfect score on National Latin Exam

 

Mars Hill Academy National Latin Exam Top Achievers, l-r: Thomas Shuler, 6th grade, Gold Summa Cum Laude; Tessa Debra, 5th grade, Perfect Score; Etienne Pienaar, 5th grade, Perfect Score; Samuel Bennett, 6th grade, Gold Summa Cum Laude; Drew Hicks, 7th grade, Gold Summa Cum Laude; Logan Cox, 6th grade, Gold Summa Cum Laude; Gita O'Brien, 6th grade, Gold Summa Cum Laude; Talita O'Brien, 5th grade, Perfect Score; Ryan O'Connor, 7th grade, Gold Summa Cum Laude; Amy Davis, 7th grade, Gold Summa Cum Laude; Kyle Chu, 5th grade, Perfect Score. Not pictured: Bobby Stewart, 6th grade, Gold Summa Cum Laude.

Loveland Fith Grade Student at Mars Hill Academy

 

Twelve Mars Hill Academy students received top honors on the 2013 National Latin Exam (NLE).  The fifth grade students who achieved perfect scores are Kyle Chu of Cincinnati, Talita O’Brien of Liberty Township, Etienne Pienaar of Maineville and Tessa DeBra of Loveland.  Sixth grade students who earned the Gold Summa Cum Laude Award are Samuel Bennett of West Chester, Logan Cox of Maineville, Gita O’Brien of Liberty Township, Thomas Shuler of Maineville, and Bobby Stewart of Morrow.  Three seventh grade students also earned the Gold Summa Cum Laude Award:  Amy Davis of Mason, Andrew Hicks of Cincinnati and Ryan O’Connor of Mason.

 

Nearly seventy percent of the Mars Hill students in grades 5-8 who took the NLE received awards. Students at Mars Hill begin their Latin studies in fourth grade as part of the school’s classical and Christian curriculum, with participation in the NLE beginning in fifth grade.  The NLEs were created to promote the study of Latin and to encourage the individual student.  Students do not compete with other students on a comparative basis, but are evaluated solely on their own performance on the exam.

Pet Food Stamps

 

 

The Pet Food Stamps program, a registered NYS non-profit corporation, has been created to fill the void in the United States Food Stamp program which excludes the purchase of pet food and pet supplies. In these rough economic times, many pet owners are forced to abandon their beloved pet.

The Pet Food Stamps program, due to the generosity of contributors and patrons, are able to eliminate that heart-wrenching decision by making sure these pet owners are given free monthly home delivery of all necessary food supplies to maintain the health and vitality of their pets.

Register Your Youth for Leadership Development Center this Summer

 

LDC by the numbers:

4 days

3 nights

2 have

1 awesome time of sharing, learning, growing and (oh yeah) FUN!

For the past 29 summers, more than 100 outstanding teens have gathered together for 4 days and 3 nights at the annual American Red Cross Leadership Development Center (LDC). LDC is designed to arm participants with the essential tools to become a leader within their schools, places of worship, their respective communities and (OF COURSE!) with the American Red Cross.

LDC is facilitated by a select team of well-trained and highly qualified teens who come from a diverse array of communities in the greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky area. Students attending LDC have the opportunity to participate in workshops and attend sessions that address a variety of topics concerning leadership, such as public speaking, encountering diversity, volunteerism, safety training and more. There are also games, guest speakers, and activities; all structured to help youth recognize their leadership potential. By participating in these shared experiences, bonds of friendship are formed that extend well beyond the four days of the camp experience.

If you are a youth, aged 13 -16, will enter grades 8 -11 in the Fall of 2013, and are ready to learn new things about yourself, about leadership and about how you can contribute to the mission of the American Red Cross, then we invite you to join us this summer for LDC 2013.

Spaces are limited and demand is high! Apply today and begin your journey to leadership!

Apply Now

 

State and Regional News

 

Aspiring Ohio GOP chair uses own funds for taxes

A contender for state Republican Party chairman said Thursday that his disagreement with the government over what taxes he owed, not a lack of money, led him to rack up years of back debt but that he's paid off about $150,000.  Read on at the News and Sentinel...

Kasich pick beats rival in bid for Ohio GOP chair

Gov. John Kasich's pick to lead the Ohio Republican Party was elected Friday over a conservative challenger who warned party leaders they are dangerously out of touch with the party's grassroots base.  Read on at News and Sentinel...

Ohio bill would allow open-container areas in cities

In the vein of the Las Vegas Strip and the streets of New Orleans, two Ohio lawmakers want the state's biggest cities to have entertainment districts where revelers can take their alcoholic drinks outdoors.Read on at TribLive...

Ohio resumes 24-hour Amber Alerts, committee had suspended overnight alerts after complaints

Ohio has decided to resume sending cellphone alerts of missing children and other emergencies whenever they happen - even in the middle of the night.    Read on at Rockford Register Star...

Hear Ye! Hear Ye! A Special Storytime

 

Symmes Township Branch Meeting Room

Family Storytime/Childrens Programs

Join us to celebrate Better Speech and Hearing
Month with a special storytime! The Better Speech
and Hearing Month Literacy Event is sponsored by
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Division of Speech
Pathology.

Families, Ages 1 - 4, Ages 3 - 6

Friday, May 03, 2013 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Also at the Symmes Branch Library

May the Fourth Be With You!

Childrens Programs/Family Programs

Join the Symmes Staff as we celebrate our love for Star Wars! On May the Fourth we will have origami, games, artwork, refreshments and a photo-op. Please feel free to dress up as your favorite character.

Children, Families

Symmes Township Branch Meeting Room

Saturday, May 04, 2013 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Cincinnati Public Library to Receive Prestigious National Award

 

The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County has announced it is one of 10 recipients of the 2013 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, awarded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

This award is the nation’s highest honor recognizing museums and libraries for their service to the community

The National Medal specifically recognizes the Library for its innovative approaches to public service and efforts in the community. With 21,000 programs, workshops and classes like Summer Reading and Brain Camp, we are heavily invested in cultural and civic engagement, innovation, and lifelong learning.

The Library’s programming is just one reason why it is one of only 10 institutions receiving this honor out of 140,000 libraries and museums across the United States.

Without your support, the Library wouldn’t be able to offer the level of service and programming available to you and your community. It’s because of your commitment to the Library that gives us the privilege of saying we’re one of the busiest and best library systems in the nation.

Loveland Early Childhood Center and XPEDX partner for Arbor Day

 

Donates $500 to help purchase trees for school

 

 

The Loveland City School District today announced an Arbor Day partnership between the Loveland Early Childhood Center (LECC), and Miami Township based xpedx, a division of International Paper, that committed $500 to help purchase six trees for LECC school grounds. In addition, xpedx employees will visit LECC classes on Arbor Day, Friday, April 26, to distribute pencils and notepads from recycled material to students.

“We have wanted to replace some trees lost to storms for quite a while, and have also been hoping to add some shade trees and gathering spots in the mulched play areas of our preschool playground, as well as our school-age playground,” said Kyle Bush, LECC principal. “Given the generous donation from our friends at xpedx, we will be able to make these plans come to fruition.

“Sending us a speaker to share some of the goals of conservation and renewal is very much in keeping with some of the themes of stewardship that we begin teaching these students at this age,” Bush added. “Having outside experts come to us to share these larger themes will make a lasting, positive impression on our students.”

 

Prince of Peace Church Rummage Sale

 

Friday May 10th from 6pm-8pm and Saturday May 11th from 8 AM - 2 PM

"Support the teens and adults heading to the 2013 Discipleship Tour in Baltimore Maryland where they will serve others and grow in Christ."

This year: CASH ONLY

Look for furniture, household items, sporting equipment, gently used clothing and much more -- all for a price you can't resist!

If you'd like to clean house and make a tax-deductible donation to the Rummage Sale, please drop off your items between Sunday May 5- Thursday May 9.

DIRECTIONS

Clermont County Judge James A. Shriver appointed to Probate/Juvenile Court by Governor Kasich

 

Clermont County Municipal Court Judge James A. Shriver was appointed to Probate/Juvenile Court by Governor John R. Kasich earlier this month. Judge Shiver is currently serving his 18^th year as Judge for the Municipal Court and will transition to his new position on July 1. “I am truly honored to be selected by Governor Kasich as the next Probate/Juvenile Court Judge for Clermont County,” said  Shriver. “The position has a long tradition of high quality service contributed by judges who previously served on the county court bench (now known as the Clermont County Municipal Court) and I’m excited to bring my 18 years of experience dealing with youth into this new position.”

Shriver started Ohio’s first OVI Court. He serves as Chair of the Ohio Supreme Court Commission on Specialized Dockets and as an ex-officio member of the Commission on the Rules of Practice and Procedure. He’s also a past president of the Association of Municipal/County Judges of Ohio and was elected from over 800 judges at all Ohio Court levels to serve as Vice President of the Ohio Judicial Conference.