Gorrell pleads guilty to Aggravated Burglary and Weapons Charges; Receives 12-year sentence

BY BOB ROBINSON 

ASSOC. EDITOR 

GREENVILLE - MacKenzie Gorrell, 20, pleaded guilty to five felonies, plus a firearm specification, on May 21 in return for a 12-year sentence. Under the terms of the plea agreement he will not be eligible for parole consideration for eight years. When released he will have five years of mandatory supervision by the Adult Parole Authority. Violation of his parole could result in an additional prison term not to exceed half of his original sentence.

Juvenile Probate Judge Jason Aslinger pronounced the sentence in the absence of Common Pleas Judge Jon Hein, who was on vacation.

Gorrell pleaded guilty to Count 1, Having Weapons while under Disability on April 14, a Felony 3; Count 3, Aggravated Burglary on April 16, a Felony 1; Count 4, Aggravated Robbery on April 16, a Felony 1; a Firearm Specification to Count 4; Count 5, Having Weapons while under Disability on April 16, Felony 3; and Count 6, Having Weapons while under Disability on April 20, Felony 3.

Counts 3 and 4 presumed a prison term was necessary but didn’t require it. Only the Firearm specification required a 3-year sentence. Maximum penalties for all counts could have totaled 34 years and fines up to $70,000.

Darke County Asst. Prosecutor R. Kelly Ormsby, III, said that the agreed upon 12 years was reasonable. The family had had a “sawed off shotgun in their face,” the defendant had threatened to shoot police officers and it took two SWAT teams and tear gas before he gave himself up.

“At age 20 he is looking at 12 years in prison. We are hoping that in the next 12 years he will mature enough to think about his actions.”

Defense attorney Randall E. Breaden said that all of his client’s activity was drug related and that he was an addict. His client is hoping that this opportunity is a positive one where he could get an education, work on a trade and get treatment for his addiction.

Aslinger imposed a two-year sentence each on Counts 1, 5 and 6; nine years each on Counts 3 & 4; plus three years on the firearm specification. Counts 1-6 will run concurrently while the specification will run consecutively.

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Local republican women attend OFRW Legislative Day

COLUMBUS – Darke County Republican Women’s Club member Lyn Bliss joined Republican women’s club leaders from across Ohio at the Statehouse recently for the Ohio Federation of Republican Women’s (OFRW) annual Legislative Day. The Legislative Day included a tour of the Statehouse, visits with numerous State Senators and Representatives, along with private conversations with members of the Senate and House leadership.

Attendees had the opportunity to hear from a variety of speakers, including Ohio House Majority Whip Cheryl Grossman and Senate President Keith Faber.

“The message from our Republican leadership was that Ohio is truly transforming into a job creation engine that is business friendly, more monies are going toward education, and Ohio has a balanced budget,” said Jean Turner, President of the OFRW.

Darke County attendee, OFRW Vice President Lyn Bliss was also pleased with the activity throughout the day. “It was a very informative event and provided a chance to share ideas and goals with our legislators and other Republican women from around the state,” said Bliss. “Being presented with the gavel used by President Faber for that day’s session was just an added treat!”

The OFRW was formed in 1929 by Mrs. Hugh Clark of Steubenville. The organization’s goal is to educate women about the Republican Party and to encourage women to be active in the party. This grassroots organization works to promote the principles and objectives of the Republican Party, elect Republican candidates, inform the public through political education and activity, and increase the effectiveness of women in the cause of good government.

The OFRW currently has a statewide membership of thousands of women across Ohio and is a member of the National Federation of Republican Women, one of the largest political organizations in the U.S.

Senate President Keith Faber (R-12), OFRW Vice-president Lyn Bliss, Senator Bill Beagle (R-5) after Faber presented the gavel used during the day’s session to Bliss. Faber and Beagle share representation of Darke County in the Ohio Senate. 

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Kindergartener immunizations

GREENVILLE - Beat the long lines and summer heat and get kindergarten immunizations now. The Darke County Health Department’s Walk-In Clinic is open every Tuesday from 8-10:30 and 2-5 p.m., no appointment necessary.

The Darke County Health Department proudly accepts many types of insurance, without the hassle of a co-pay. The Darke County Health Department is located at 300 Garst Ave., Greenville. Call, 548-4196 ext. 224, with any questions.

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Free support for new parents

GREENVILLE - Becoming a new parent can bring about many unanswered questions. Get the answers you are looking for by scheduling a free in home visit with a nurse from the Darke County Health Department. The visit is free, includes a weight check for the baby, coupons, lasts about an hour, and is available to any new parent in Darke County. Call 548-4196, ext. 211.

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Dickman Supply lights up Annie’s Wild West Gala

GREENVILLE - Dickman Supply is lighting up Annie’s Wild West Gala! Annie and her dog Dave want to say “thank you” to Dickman Supply for their Gold Star donations of a chandelier, ceiling light, wall sconces, outdoor directional lights, Klein tool box with hand tools, and a selection of flashlights with rechargers.

Annie’s Wild West Gala will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2013. This is a fundraiser for The Garst Museum and The National Annie Oakley Center. All funds raised at this event will benefit the Garst Museum in Greenville, Ohio.

Part of Annie’s Wild West Gala is Annie’s Wild Raffle. Prizes for the raffle include accommodations for a weekend Gatlinburg get-a-way, an Apple iPad 4, and Bose Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones-Quiet Comfort 15.

Tickets for the raffle ($5.00 per chance) or for the event ($12.00 per person) can be purchased from the Garst Museum.

The Garst Museum is located at 205 N. Broadway, Greenville 45331, 548-5250, web site: www.garstmuseum.org, email: information@garstmuseum.org

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Heartland of Greenville’s 20 year club

GREENVILLE - Heartland of Greenville’s 20 Year Club recently gathered for its annual dinner and celebration, and to induct its newest honoree, Fay Shannon. Shannon started working for Heartland in 1992 as a floor nurse after completing her LPN. She currently works as the MDS Coordinator and has recently completed her Associate of Applied Science degree in preparation for becoming a Registered Nurse. Shannon was presented with a commemorative gift, and her name was added to the 20 Year Club plaque displayed at Heartland of Greenville.

The 20 Year Club is a program designed to recognize those team members who have provided 20 years or more of service to Heartland of Greenville. The seven current club members have a combined 204 years of experience with Heartland.

Pictured: June Opp (LPN/Medical Records), Kathy Acton (STNA), Fay Shannon (LPN/MDS), Rhonda Weese (STNA) and Rosemary Nelson (Activity Director). Members Not Pictured: Carolyn Burrell (Payroll Coordinator) and Dan Hittle (Maintenance) 

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HOPE Foundation awards nursing scholarships

GREENVILLE - The HOPE Foundation of Darke County is proud to announce the recipients of the Joyce Bruns Memorial Scholarship, named in honor of a dedicated nurse who died in April 1998. The scholarship was awarded to two Darke County nurses who are continuing their education in nursing.

Cheryl Holmes of the Union City area works at Wayne Healthcare in Greenville and is completing her masters degree in nursing education. The other recipient is Emily Powers of Greenville, who teaches the medical tech prep class at Greenville High School. Emily is also obtaining her masters degree in nursing education.

Joyce Bruns, RN, BSN, a Versailles resident, was an active board member of Hospice for 13 years and a proponent of Hospice among the nursing and medical community. She was a nurse at Wayne Hospital for 18 years before serving as director of nursing at the Versailles Healthcare Center. She became ill with brain cancer in 1997 having just completed her bachelor’s degree in nursing. Through her commitment of time and energy, plus the family support needed to earn her degree, she felt her continuing education expanded her views of nursing and made her a better person as she met the challenges of family, work, and school. Her dedication to the nursing profession will live on through this scholarship for nurses continuing their education.

As the community foundation of Darke County, the HOPE Foundation receives, administers and distributes charitable gifts for the benefit of our community. By awarding scholarships to students and grants to local non-profit organizations, the HOPE Foundation enriches the lives of Darke County residents. For more information, call 548-HOPE or visit HOPE’s website at www.hopedarkecounty.com.

Recipients of the Joyce Bruns Memorial Scholarship accept their checks from the HOPE Foundation of Darke County. Left to right: Kelley Hall and Theresa Hall (Darke County Nursing Education Council); Tony Bruns (husband of Joyce Bruns); Emily Powers and Cheryl Holmes (scholarship recipients); Christy Prakel (HOPE Foundation president); Jane Thompson and Kathy O’Dell (Darke County Nursing Education Council). 

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Lions recycle eyeglasses for sight

DARKE COUNTY – As spring cleaning gets under way, Lions clubs in the area are asking people to look through dresser drawers and closets for used eyeglasses and donate them to the Lions Recycle for Sight program. Yearly, Lions in District 13-E (Auglaize, Champaign, Clark, Darke, Hardin, Logan, Mercer, Miami, Shelby and Union counties) recycle more than 25,000 pairs of eyeglasses, according to Darlene Roll, District 13-E Eyeglass Recycling Coordinator. “We thank those individuals who have generously given eyeglasses throughout the years and encourage others to participate,” Mrs. Roll said.

Lions clubs in the area collect used eyeglasses year-round; however, the month of May is designated “Lions Recycle for Sight Month” by Lions Clubs International. Lions clubs collect used prescription eyeglasses along with prescription and non-prescription sunglasses as part of a unique recycling program. The collected glasses will be cleaned and prepared for distribution in developing countries where eye care is often unaffordable and inaccessible.

“We need everyone to donate their used eyeglasses,” said Darlene Roll, District 13-E Eyeglass Recycling Coordinator. “In most developing countries, an eye exam can cost as much as one month’s wages and a single eye doctor may serve a community of hundreds of thousands of people.”

The donated glasses will be shipped to a regional Lions Eyeglass Recycling Center where they will be cleaned, categorized by prescription and prepared for distribution by Lions and other groups.

To donate used glasses (including sunglasses and reading glasses), place them in the specially marked Lions Recycle for Sight collection boxes located in doctors’ offices, libraries and other businesses.

Lions clubs are a group of men and women who identify needs within the community and work together to fulfill those needs. For more information, please contact Darlene Roll at 599-1111.

Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest service club organization with more than 1.3 million members in approximately 45,000 clubs in 207 countries and geographical areas around the world. Founded in 1917, Lions clubs are best known for fighting blindness – it is part of the organization’s history as well as Lions’ work today. Sight-related projects became the organization’s original mission in 1925, at the Lions Clubs International Convention at Cedar Point, Ohio. Helen Keller, who was blind and deaf and well-known as an advocate for people with disabilities, attended the convention and challenged Lions to become "knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness." Lions clubs have aided the blind and visually impaired, made a strong commitment to community projects such as the environment, feeding the hungry and aiding seniors and the disabled, and serving youth throughout the world in the almost 100 years since being founded. For more information about Lions Clubs International, visit the web site at www.lionsclubs.org.

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Local F.O.P. meets fundraising goal

GREENVILLE - The Lowell Thomas Fraternal Order of Police has met its goal for Shop with a Cop Program. Thank you to all who participate in changing a kid’s life every year. This program touches all of Darke County, as kids from all areas participate in the program. Thank you again. You do make a difference.

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Monte Carlo event a huge success

GREENVILLE - Over 100 players attended the Cancer Association Monte Carlo this year on May 10 at the VFW hall. Thank you to all that attended. We were able to go over little of what we made last year in hopes we can surpass that amount next year. Proceeds help local cancer patients with their treatment and other expenses.

All games were hits. We had electronic slots and over and under seven dice games that were run by Attorney Jim Detling. Jim made this game a BIG hit again this year. Betty and Ray Laughlin, Daryl McKinney and Steve Young were the dealers of the evening. I added a bowling game this year. A huge thank you to these guys that gave their time for us.

There were silent auctions that included donations from the Cancer Board Members, and cake walks with cakes that were donated by the board members.

As chairman of this event I want to thank all the volunteers that helped me make this year another huge success. Without these people I couldn’t have done it. Volunteers for the evening were, Sherry Marten, Jim Detling, Kim Robinson, Eddie Grace Young, Marilyn Emmons, Kay Curry, Tonya Dohme, Becky Saylor, Betty and Ray Laughlin, Daryl McKinney, Steve Young, and Mike and Sharon Lehman, Dr. Carlos Menendez, Jamie Young, and to our DJ, B&D Karaoke, thank you again for another wonderful year of music and fun.

The Cancer Association assists local patients in paying for medications, mileage, medical supplies, wigs and more, and we only go on donations. So ALL of our events are special.

Corporate Sponsors for this event were: Fifth-Third Bank, Diane Evans, Second National Bank, Johnson Chiropractic, Leis Reality, American Legion Post 140, Family Health, Francis Furniture, Osgood State Bank, Moose Lodge No. 329, Women of the Moose Chapter No. 102, VFW women, Greenville Memorial Auxiliary and Warner Chiropractic.

Food was provided by the Moose Lodge No. 329, McDonalds, Women of the VFW, Women of the American Legion, Women of the Moose, Romers, Kroger’s, Wendy’s and Marcos pizza and Billie Jo Deem. A big thank you to these folks. Special thank you to my mother in law Donna Howdieshell.

Door prizes were provided by and a big thank you to these folks also, Back In time, C C’s Consignment, Bistro, Double M, Fairlawn, Firestone, Frances Furniture, Furniture Express, Gettysburg Wholesale Carpet, Good Buys, Hair Shack, Hansberger’s, Heritage House, JT’s Brew, Hummers, Kitchen Aid, Lavey’s Station, Longfellow’s, Michael clocks, Papa Johns, Plessinger Florist, Reigning Cats and Dogs, Second National Bank, Studio One, Coffee Pot, Taco Bell, Teafords Dairy, The Bootery, Vints, Greenville Pawn Shop, Auto Zone, Dave Knapp, Advance Auto Parts, O’reilly Auto Parts, Yvonne Massage, Tropical Isle Tanning, Youniques, Pizza Hut, HotRods and Harley’s, Wieland Jewelry, Wayne Theater, Double M, Fairlawn, Dickmans, Roots Hair, Bach to Rock, Sadie Grace, Birts Sewing, Ace Hardware, Lowes, Merle Norman, Ron Garrett, County Side Bike Shop, Rent-A-Center and G&G Carpet, Chicken Kitchen, Dairy Barn, Jims Hotdog and Granny’s Corner. I can’t say it enough, thank you to all the above merchants and people helping to make this event

Another successful year. Start planning to attend next year to have a wonderful fun filled evening. Date and time will be announced later.

Our own Judge Julie Monnin bid on the Matt Light signed Helmet that was donated by the Greenville Pawn Shop and won.

Please be sure to support all the Cancer Association events. Remember all the proceeds stay in Darke County. The next event is the chicken BBQ on July 7; you can buy tickets from any board member or at the Cancer office at 209 E. 4th street, 548-9960.

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Versailles Health Care gives back to community

RUSSIA - Versailles Health Care Center, a leader in skilled nursing and rehabilitation, is giving back to the community of Russia by leading a monthly exercise group at The Gathering Place on the third Thursday of each month from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. The Gathering Place is located at 201 W. Main St. The mission of The Gathering Place is to offer mental and physical enrichment to area senior citizens. Opportunities for seniors to gather for sharing, socializing, exercises, and other wellness activities are cheerfully provided. The intent is to instill a feeling of lifefulness and foster a community of caring. The need to stay active is essential to seniors' well-being and healthy longevity.

Lisa Chalk, Administrator of Versailles Health Care Center, said “We enjoy partnering with The Gathering Place to provide socialization, exercise, and education to the Russia community.” In addition to the monthly exercise sessions, Versailles Health Care Center donates pies from Brown’s Sweet Shop & Bakery of Versailles on the second Thursday of each month. According to Erna Voisard, Assistant Director of The Gathering Place, “The ladies eat lunch at the Russia Inn and then come back here for cards and dominoes followed by pies from Versailles Health Care Center. We love it!”

Versailles Health Care Center is a skilled nursing and rehabilitation center that offers inpatient and outpatient therapy to people of all ages. Specialty programs include Parkinson’s treatment, Balance Rehab Therapy, Sports Medicine, Cardiac Recovery, Pulmonary Rehab, Stroke Recovery, Continence Improvement, Wound Care, Joint Replacement Therapy, and much more. In 2012, the care center sent home 159 patients that utilized its short-term rehab services! If you are interested in learning more about the therapy programs offered at Versailles Health Care Center, call 526-5570 or visit www.versailleshealthcare.com.

Stephanie Goubeaux, Physical Therapist at Versailles Health Care Center, leads exercise session at The Gathering Place in Russia. 

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Volunteering hits five-year high

DARKE COUNTY - A new national study shows that Americans significantly increased their commitment to volunteering. Did you know that 26.7% of Ohio residents volunteer – are you one of the volunteers?

Put your experience, skills and talents to use in your community by calling Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) today. If you are an older adult aged 55 or better, below is a list of some of the volunteer opportunities that could be just right for you.

Darke County Parks is looking for people who enjoy the outdoors and being busy doing some light physical activity in the parks. Or maybe you want to volunteer to handle the phone/receptionist duties at the Nature Center. If you enjoy history, we can help you learn how to be a volunteer at the Log House.

You can help kids say healthy and happy at Kids Learning Place in Greenville. They need volunteers to help sanitize toys for an hour or two on Friday mornings.

You choose how and where to serve and also the amount of time you want to give. If you are interested in many exciting opportunities call and talk with the volunteer recruiter Cheryl Stafford at 548-8002, or email her at rsvpdk@councilonruralservices.org .

RSVP/HandsOn West Central Ohio is a program of Council on Rural Services… programs for innovative learning that supports children, youth, and older adults in Darke, Shelby, Miami and Logan Counties. For more information about the agency check the Web site at www.councilonruralservices.org or call 778-5220.

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Darke County Special Olympics holds 35th annual event

BY RYAN BERRY 

MANAGING EDITOR 

GREENVILLE – For the 35th year, kids from around the county converged on Harmon Field in the Greenville City Park on May 20 for the annual Special Olympics Track and Field events. This year’s event was delayed a few days due to rain, but that couldn’t stop the smiles on the faces of athletes and volunteers once the games began.

Approximately 350 athletes and unified partners participated in this year’s event that included running and walking events, slalom, relays with unified partners, boys and girls shot put, bean bag toss, long jump and softball throw. Athletes ranged in age from 8 to 22 and come from every school in Darke County. Cindy Rose, volunteer director for Darke County’s Special Olympics, couldn’t be more pleased with the support the event receives from the school districts. Many of the superintendents were on-hand to help with the events.

Rose is in her 19th year of serving Darke County Special Olympics, but pointed out there are several volunteers that have been with this event for all 35 years. This was the 10th year for the event to be held on a school day, which Rose noted, has helped attendance.

New to the event this year was the awards stage. According to Rose, a father of one of the athletes approached her about building a stage to celebrate the athletes. Rose agreed and John Burnett gathered a few friends to help build and gather materials. Several businesses donated to the cause and the result is a beautiful awards stand that features three podiums to recognize the winners. One of the podiums is wheelchair accessible.

John Burnett and some of his friends that helped build the new Special Olympics award stand were on-hand to help open this year’s event.

Fred Foutz, publisher of The Early Bird, pins a ribbon on one of the winners. (Ryan Berry photo) 

Susan Allread, Senior Vice President & CFO of Greenville Federal, presented a blue ribbon to Renee Netzley for first place in the girls softball throw at the Special Olympics. (Brian Beam photo)

Bailey Buck displays some of the ribbons she won at the track and field meet. (Ryan Berry photo) 

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Accident exercise at Continental Carbonic deemed “successful”

BY BOB ROBINSON

ASSOC. EDITOR

GREENVILLE - “Attention all personnel. An emergency has happened. Evacuate plant and go to staging area…”

It was 9:15 a.m. May 11 and the employees at Continental Carbonic immediately left the plant in accordance with the company’s emergency plan.

The accident exercise had begun.

“We have a mock ammonia release,” said Rocky Harrison, Continental Carbonic Plant Manager. “Anhydrous ammonia is a water seeking gas that will overcome you… it can kill you.”

The exercise was conducted outside while a true emergency would likely have occurred inside the plant.

The “victims,” Greenville High School students Caleb Custer and Jamie Thomas, were “found” under the plant’s CO2 storage tanks. For the exercise, they were revived and taken back to the responder units for treatment and transport to Wayne Hospital.

“Continental Carbonic did its job exactly as planned,” said Leslie Bricker, Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA).

She explained that these training exercises are done in all counties on a regular basis. Bricker said she has responsibility for 11 counties, all in the Miami Valley area. She noted that the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA) was the “player” participating in the exercise while her agency was the “facilitator” that conducts and evaluates it.

“There are trained volunteers that evaluate every single aspect of the exercise,” she said.

Harrison said his company has training programs to handle potential events like this and that he had volunteered Continental Carbonic for the exercise.

While a real release inside the plant was highly unlikely, he added, there is always a chance that a minor event could happen.

“It was a success,” said Mindy Saylor, Director of Darke County Homeland Security & Emergency Management Office. “Darke County should be proud of the commitment of our first responders and partner organizations to exercise and training.”

She said there were more than 25 organizations represented, with 113 individuals in attendance. Most were volunteers. Key players included Greenville City Fire, Greenville Police, Greenville Township Rescue, Darke County Sheriff’s Office, local HazMat Team Members and more.

The exercise continued with HazMat teams suiting into protective gear to stop the anhydrous ammonia leak from a broken pipe. One team member noted that fixing the problem would likely take about two hours.

Following the exercise a “facilitated hogwash” and lunch took place at Lighthouse Christian Center. The purpose was to evaluate the individual, and overall, aspects of the exercise.

While some minor areas of improvement were discussed, evaluators agreed it was a “very well run exercise.”

Particularly noted was the company following its plan, good interaction between company and responders, great communication with the hospital and more.

“All worked together as a team,” said one evaluator. “Great, great job.”

Two areas of needed improvement were too many volunteer participants who didn’t get used and a tendency to overwhelm the Command Post with questions.

“That’s why we run these exercises,” a moderator said. “They will be fixed the next time.”

Greenville High School students Caleb Custer (left, foreground) and Jamie Thomas were “overwhelmed” by the anhydrous ammonia release during the accident exercise at Continental Carbonic on May 11. They were treated at the scene then transferred to Wayne Hospital as part of the exercise. 

More than 25 organizations, with 113 individuals in attendance, took part on the Ohio Emergency Management Agency training exercise. 

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Friends and supporters Light Up The Night for Corynna

BY RYAN BERRY 

MANAGING EDITOR 

GREENVILLE – Supporters of Corynna Strawser and her family braved a rain delay and chilly weather to Light Up the Night for Corynna at the Greenville City Park. Four-hundred lanterns were lit and set afloat on the park’s ponds.

Strawser is suffering from mitochondrial disease. The life-changing illness has caused many of her normal functions to be diminished and over the past several months her condition has worsened. She is now confined to a wheelchair and even simple tasks, such as showering, can deplete her energy. Work recently began on an addition to the Strawser home to make life a little simpler for the family. Volunteers have worked, provided services and donated funds to complete the $25,000 addition. Currently, Corynna is confined to a small bedroom upstairs surrounded by IV poles, medical equipment and an oxygen machine. Spending time with her entire family has been limited since her condition worsened. Funds from the Light Up The Night event were given to help complete the room addition.

Additional donations are being accepted through Greenville Federal, c/o Courage for Corynna.

Corynna Strawser was joined by her friends and supporters at the Greenville City Park on May 11 to raise money for Building Corynna’s Room. (Ryan Berry photo) 

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Memorial Day Services

Liberty Township Memorial Day services will be held May 27. The ceremony for Palestine Cemetery will begin at 10 a.m. at the center of town with a parade marching to the cemetery. Pastor Mike Simmons will be the speaker. At 11 a.m., there will be a service at Bass Cemetery with Rev. Pam King speaking. Participating in both ceremonies will be the Tri-Village Band, Scout Troop 96/Pack 149 and the Hollansburg American Legion Color Guard.

The West Manchester American Legion will hold Memorial Day services at Castine Cemetery on May 19, 1 p.m. Services will be held at Twin Creek Chapel Cemetery at 2 p.m. on the same day.

Memorial Day services will be held at Newcomers Cemetery in Franklin Township on June 2, 1 p.m. Services at Mote Cemetery in Monroe Township will also be held June 2, 2 p.m.

The Van Buren Township Memorial Services will be held at Abbottsville Cemetery on May 26. Services begin at 1 p.m. with Arcanum High School instrumentalists and the Greenville High School NJROTC. The address will be given by Larry Harter.

The Twin Township Memorial Services will be held at Ithaca Cemetery on May 26. Services will begin at 2 p.m. with Arcanum High School instrumentalists and the Greenville High School NJROTC. The address will be given by Larry Harter.

The Memorial Day at Gettysburg Cemetery will be held May 27, 2:30 p.m. The Memorial Day address will be given by Rev. Burt Wolf, interim pastor at Oakland Church of the Brethren and former principal of Franklin Monroe High School. Others participating will be Jason Lance, Gettysburg mayor, Joseph, Greenville High School Band and Versailles Color Guard. Everyone is invited to attend this service. In case of rain, the service will be held in the Bible Holiness Church, corner of Clay and Corwin Streets, Gettysburg.

Stelvideo Memorial Day Service will be held at 1 p.m., May 26, at the Stelvideo Christian Church. Kay Crawford, voluntary service specialist at the Dayton VA Medical Center will be the honored speaker. Music will be provided by the Stelvideo church band, directed by David Bloomfield. At 2 p.m., following the service at the church, American Legion Post 140 will conduct a Memorial Service at Stelvideo Cemetery. Crawford served in the Women’s Army Corps during the Vietnam Era towards the end of the Vietnam War. She left college in 1974 and joined the military. She served as a squad leader during basic training and graduated with top honors and their drill sergeant was Outstanding Drill Sergeant of the Cycle. She met her husband at Ft. Jackson and married him after she got out of the military. She has been married for 38 years and has three children, eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren. She has been with the VA Medical Center since August 1991 and has worked for the government for 36 years. She has been in Voluntary Service since March 1997.

The Beamsville Christian Church will host its annual memorial Day Service on May 27, 10 a.m. Representative Jim Buchy will be the guest speaker at the service. Buchy represents the 84th House District which includes Mercer County and portions of Auglaize, Darke and Shelby Counties. He is now in his 11th term and returned to House Leadership this term as the Assistant Majority Whip. Representative Buchy serves on the Policy and Legislative Oversight, Rules and Reference, and the Agriculture and Natural Resources committees. Also participating in the service will be Greenville High School Band, Greenville American Legion, Post 140, Greenville American VFW, Post 7262, Ansonia Boy Scouts, Troop 114, and Ansonia Cub Scouts, Pack 114. Following the service at the church there will be a service at the Beamsville Cemetery, conducted by the Greenville VFW and the Greenville American Legion.

Memorial Day Services for Bradford will be held May 26. Line up for the parade will begin at 1 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Parking Lot, with the parade beginning at 1:30 p.m. The parade will proceed up Miami Avenue and end at the Harris Creek Cemetery for a 2 p.m. service. Pastor Daryl Peeples, assisted by other pastors, will conduct the service. The Bradford Area Association of Churches is sponsoring this event and asks that you join them in remembering our veterans.

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Sanctus Real joins line-up for Illumination Festival

Sanctus Real 

GREENVILLE – The Illumination Committee recently signed several more bands to join MercyMe on stage for the annual Illumination Festival on Sept. 22, at the Darke County Fairgrounds. This year’s special guest is Sanctus Real. This group headlined the Illumination Festival a few years ago. Joining them will be Citizen Way, The Neverclaim and Everfound.

Considering the average shelf life of most bands these days, it’s a particularly rare quality when a group not only sticks together for the long haul but maintains a strong sense of mission in the process. For Sanctus Real who began sixteen years ago in the basement of the home belonging to guitarist Chris Rohman’s parents, their purpose has never wavered even as musical trends have come and gone.

Basically, making music for purely music’s sake or trying to keep pace with rock ‘n’ roll’s definition of what’s cool has never been an option. Instead, no matter the season, whether it’s one characterized by struggle, victory or something in between, Sanctus Real remained sure and steady and written songs that honestly reflect the complex journey of faith.

Always running toward the only thing they know, namely God’s Word and His unfailing promises, Sanctus Real’s sixth studio album, Run, is a new collection of lyrics and melodies shot straight from the hearts of a weathered yet determined band of comrades who clearly still love collaborating. Building upon their Grammy-nominated 2010 album Pieces Of A Real Heart that featured the breakout track “Lead Me,” the band continues to devote itself to writing songs they pray will matter.

The band is comprised of Matt Hammitt (vocals), Chris Rohman (guitars), Mark Graalman (drums), Pete Provost (guitars and keys) and Dan Gartley (bass).

Citizen Way is a true band of brothers - in the literal sense. This infectious rock four-piece is comprised of two sets of siblings with strong ministry backgrounds and a mutual passion for music that began long before the band officially formed in 2004. Band members Josh and Ben Calhoun and David and Ben Blascoe share a camaraderie that is undeniable and results in a unique, unparalled connection for a band that has plenty to say.

Nothing typical comes out of Portland. So, it makes perfect sense that The Neverclaim may be one of the most atypical worship bands impacting church culture. They have developed an eclectic musical style that seems to separate them from any other worship circles they have experienced. In a relatively short time, this sextet has evolved from local, to regional, to national and now international levels. They have performed with some of Christian music’s biggest acts such as Third Day, Kutless, Tenth Avenue North, Michael W. Smith, Amy Grant and more.

Everfound is a band comprised of four Russian-born brothers. They are set to release their self-titled Word Entertainment debut album on July 16. The album’s lead single and Top 20 hit is “Never Beyond Repair.” Their song “What Love Means” is featured on World Entertainment’s musical companion to the History Channel’s mini-series The Bible. The band also played at a massive kick-off event for the mini-series with Mark Burnett and Roma Downey in partnership with Rick Warren at Saddleback Church.

Tickets for MercyMe, Sanctus Real, The Neverclaim and Everfound will go on sale June 1 at area Christian bookstores and itickets.com. Early bird ticket pricing will be held through June 17 with tickets priced at $25 for reserved seating and track, and $20 for Grandstand. There is no early bird pricing for VIP seats. These seats are $50 and put concert goers in front of the stage. After June 17, ticket prices for reserved, grandstand and track will increase by $5. Tickets purchased on the day of the show will be an additional $5.

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Preparations being made for GOBA’s 25th ride in Greenville

BY RYAN BERRY 

MANAGING EDITOR 

GREENVILLE – “I’ve seen the word GOBA in the newspapers and around town, but what is it?” one might ask. The easy answer is that it is the Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure. For riders, that answer doesn’t do this event justice. GOBA is indeed an adventure, as its name implies, but it is much more. It is families coming together for vacations, visiting places one never knew existed, making new friends or renewing acquaintances, and finding out how other Ohioans live, work and play. Since 1989, this event has reached nearly every nook and cranny of the state and has hosted over 64,000 regular and casual bicyclists; many of which have participated in multiple GOBA events.

GOBA is owned by Columbus Outdoor Pursuits and is the largest non-competitive outdoor recreation club in Central Ohio, having been around for over 60 years. They have nearly 3,000 members and run many bicycle tours, including the nationally famous Tour of the Scioto River Valley. Profits made from GOBA are used to benefit bicycling in Ohio. Over the life of GOBA, a sizeable donation was made to the Ohio to Erie Trail Fund, to move forward this effort to construct a multi-use recreation trail across Ohio.

This year’s ride marks the 25th anniversary of GOBA and the fifth time riders will make their way through Darke County. Previous stops have taken place in 1994, 1998, 2003, and 2007. This will mark the third time the event has stopped in Greenville. In 2003 GOBA hosted a record number of riders, 3,165; and Greenville served as the beginning and ending stop for the ride. GOBA organizers expect between 2,500 to 3,000 riders for this year’s anniversary ride.

Over the years, GOBA riders have ranged in age from toddlers to nearly 90 years old. A significant number of persons participating in the event are over 70 and under age 10. On average, 75-percent of the riders call Ohio home. However, in 2012, 38 states were represented as well as Canada, Japan and Switzerland. This is the second largest event of its kind in the country.

The ride encompasses eight days and riders peddle approximately 50-miles each day and camp in designated cities and villages throughout Ohio. This year’s ride begins in Urbana on June 15 and travels through Troy, Greenville, New Bremen and Sidney. GOBA riders will begin arriving at the Greenville High School campsite throughout the day on June 18 and will head toward their next stop the following morning.

The tour gains its uniqueness from the hospitality of the towns and sites it visits during the week. During the day, community leaders organize food and entertainment to welcome the cyclists. Each afternoon temporary campgrounds are set up in the host towns, along with information booths, and shuttle system. The Greenville GOBA committee is currently working on several projects to welcome the riders, including a tour of KitchenAid, live band, shuttles to the downtown business area, and more. Several local non-profit groups have also stepped up and will be offering food for riders.

In order to host the event, each community must provide a town coordinator to oversee and coordinate committees for campground logistics, transportation, emergency planning, housing, food, entertainment, and information. Deanna York and Betty Birt are serving as this year’s co-coordinators.

Leading up to GOBA’s arrival, The Early Bird will be sharing several articles to let local residents know what to expect, entertainment available to riders and residents, and the extent of preparation needed to host nearly 3,000 riders.

Emergency Services

Ken Livingston NREMT-P, Education Coordinator, Greenville Twp. Rescue, has been given the task of working with GOBA to develop the Emergency Services plan. While GOBA officials are capable of handling minor mishaps, such as cuts, scrapes, bruises and sore muscles, local agencies need to be ready in case of severe injuries, accidents or inclement weather.

The following is a list of agencies that will be assisting as riders come through Darke County.

Greenville Twp Rescue - Providing standby to assist with First Aid tent and provide emergency care and transportation.

Red Cross – Staffing First Aid tent from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Providing treatment for rider and staff for any medical needs from injuries, aches and pains to dehydration and more serious issues like breathing problems to chest pain. They will arrange transportation for more serious conditions.

Family Health Services – Providing volunteers to help staff the First Aid tent. Family Health Services will also offer medical supplies for the tent and their afterhours clinic for riders needing care not available in the first aid tent.

Greenville Police Department – The department will assist with traffic control to get all the riders into and out of town safely. They will also provide extra patrols to ensure a safe pleasant stay in Greenville.

Darke County Sheriff and Sheriff’s Patrol – Deputies will provide assistance along the route at high traffic areas and dangerous intersection. They will provide patrols at the Greenville High School to ensure a safe pleasant stay in Greenville. The department will also handle communications between all the emergency services.

Department of Homeland Security/EMA – Officials are providing support and planning for disaster preparedness. They will also assist with monitoring the weather and advising staff of potential dangers.

Greenville Fire Department – Firefighters will assure fire safety codes and fire safety lanes for the food venders, camping area and the events are kept. They will also assist with the sheltering of participants in case of bad weather.

Wayne HealthCare – The hospital will provide emergency and non emergency care to riders and participants. They will also offer the use of the mini ambulance for the camping area.

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Senior Scribes Scholarship Fund awards eight scholarships

BY BOB ROBINSON 

ASSOC. EDITOR 

GREENVILLE - The Senior Scribes Scholarship Fund recently awarded eight scholarships to local high school students and graduates at its annual banquet at the Bistro Off Broadway. The recipients included students and graduates from six Darke County high schools.

Receiving the scholarships were:

Sam Armstrong, a 2010 Mississinawa Valley High School graduate pursuing an English/Creative Writing degree at Cedarville University. He received the Al and Barbara Greiner Scholarship for Academic Excellence. Sam’s parents are Mr. and Mrs. Robert Armstrong, Union City.

Kent Holmes, a 2011 Greenville High School graduate pursuing a Telecommunications/Free Lance Media degree at Ball State University. Kent’s parents are Mr. and Mrs. Larry Holmes, Greenville.

Simon Hoying, a 2011 Greenville High School graduate pursuing a Communications degree at Ball State University. Simon’s parents are Mr. and Mrs. Donald Hoying, Greenville.

John Liette, a 2012 Ansonia High School graduate pursuing a Communications Disorder degree at Ball State University. He received the Lloyd/Marie Blickenstaff and Melvin/Hannah Rust Memorial Scholarship presented by Delbert & Louise Blickenstaff. John’s parents are Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Liette, Union City.

Margaret Prakel, a 2012 Versailles High School graduate pursuing a Communications degree at Notre Dame University. Margaret was unable to attend. Receiving the award on her behalf was her grandmother, Margery Prakel. Margaret’s parents are Mr. and Mrs. Mike Prakel, Versailles.

Brooke Robinson, a 2013 Versailles High School graduate and Valedictorian of her graduating class, is pursuing a Communications/Editor degree. Brooke’s parents are Mr. and Mrs. Ted Robinson, Versailles. Brooke received the Fred Wright Memorial Scholarship, presented annually by Darrel and Debbie Biddlestone.

Ashley Studebaker, a 2012 Franklin Monroe High School graduate pursuing a Sports Writing Degree at Wright State University. Her parents are Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Studebaker, Laura.

Makayla Wilson, a 2013 Arcanum High School graduate planning to attend Edison Community College. She is the recipient of the Bistro Off Broadway Scholarship for Academic Excellence. Her parents are Mr. and Mrs. Chad Wilson, Greenville.

Receiving a special award at the event was a life-long local sports writer, George Starks. Starks has devoted a 32-year career to youth sports in Darke County. In presenting the award, SSSF Board Member Bob Robinson said the kids love him.

“He has commanded the love and respect of high school athletes for decades. They invite him to their graduation parties, even to their weddings.”

In accepting the award, Starks referred to “his kids” as numbering in the thousands. He currently serves as the volunteer sports editor for SSSF’s fundraising arm, County News Online.

The Senior Scribes Scholarship Fund was established in February 2008 and has provided nearly $32,000 in scholarships and other college aid to Darke County students. Current SSSF board members are Elaine Bailey, Chair, Al Bliss, Vice Chair, Secretary Jan Boyer, Treasurer Al Greiner, and Directors Robinson, Delbert Blickenstaff, Lyn Bliss and Marianne Clark.

Bob Robinson congratulates George Starks 

Pictured are Ashley Studebaker, Kent Holmes, John Liette, Simon Hoying, Makayla Wilson and Sam Armstrong. Not pictured are Margaret Prakel and Brooke Robinson. 

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Waller and Fulton are top students at GHS

GREENVILLE – Greenville Senior High School’s 139th annual Commencement on June 1, 7 p.m., at Harmon Field. Two-hundred and twenty-four students have been approved to participate in this year’s ceremony pending successful completion of necessary requirements. The senior high orchestra, directed by J.R. Price will play the prelude, the processional, National Anthem Alma Mater and recessional. Members of the Greenville High School Vocal Music Department, under the direction of Michele Smith will also perform.

Pastor Robert Kensinger, of the Bible Fellowship Church, will give the invocation. Ken Neff, principal, will recognize the class Salutatorian and Valedictorian. Neff will also present the Class of 2013. Assisting with reading the graduates’ names will be Carl Brown and David Torrence, assistant principals, and Director of Curriculum/Career Technical Education David Peltz.

Presenting the diplomas will be Board of Education members Sue Bowman, Cindy Scott, James Sommer, Fred Matix, and Ben Studabaker. Assisting with the diploma presentation will be Doug Fries, Jon McGreevey and Carla Surber from the Greenville City Schools Central Office.

Following the diploma presentation, Pastor Kensinger will give the Benediction. The singing of the Alma Mater will precede the recessional

Erica Waller has been named this year’s Valedictorian. She has a 5.0 GPA and is planning to attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and major in Mechanical Engineering. Her school activities and awards while at Greenville Senior High School include the following: Spanish Club, National Honor Society, Academic Team, Brethrens Home, Key Club, National Technical Honor Society, band, theatre, Varsity Calculus and her church choir.

Trevor Fulton has been named the Salutatorian. He has a 4.963 GPA and is planning to attend The Ohio State University and major in Mathematics. His school activities and awards while at Greenville Senior High School include the following: Science Club, Bob Evans Restaurant, band, jazz band, track, tennis, Academic Team, Varsity Calculus and National Honor Society.

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Bear’s Mill to display prints and pots

GREENVILLE - One of a kind hand-pulled prints plus pastel paintings by Bellbrook resident Andrea Starkey will be paired with wood-fired clay vessels created by Patrick Rademaker of Louisville, Ky., at “Art at the Mill” during the month of June. The art exhibit at historic Bear's Mill will open May 31 with an artists' reception from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.; light hors d'oeuvres and wine will be served. The artists will speak briefly at 7 p.m., outlining their personal histories and revealing their motivations and goals. “These artists create subtle forms which make bold statements; their unique work will add a vibrant presence to the Mill's rustic gallery space surrounded by the beauty of nature,” said Julie Clark, retail manager and gallery coordinator for Bear's Mill.

Andrea Starkey began working as a commercial artist in 1990, but decided to drop the “commercial” from her title in 2009 when she began showing her pastels in juried competitions. Her atmospheric nature-inspired paintings utilize layering to explore the effects of light on the landscapes she creates on canvas. The artist says that she attempts to capture similar imagery in her printmaking, although the process is much more complex, requiring hours of planning, carving, inking, and pulling multiple impressions to achieve a satisfying result.

A recent graduate of the University of Louisville, Patrick Rademaker works in a style that keeps him physically involved in all aspects of the development of his wood-fired creations. Patrick formulates his own clay and builds his own kilns where he interprets the results of firings and then actively responds to those results to capture and enhance the end product so that it satisfies the creator and speaks clearly to the viewer. He aims for his utilitarian vessels to forge a relationship with others, inspiring continued interaction and subtly connecting the narrative of the potter's process to the ultimate user of the piece.

Contemporary pottery based on the historic art of whiskey vessels by Julie Clark, Rita Wiley, Loretta Wray, and Dionne Fleming and watercolors by beloved Tipp City artist Roger Haas remain on display at Bear's Mill through May 26. “Art at the Mill” receives funding from the Ami McClurkin Community Fund, held by the HOPE Foundation of Darke County, and also has received support from Darke County Endowment for the Arts. The art exhibit is on view during regular Mill store hours, 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily. Historic Bear's Mill is operated by Friends of Bear's Mill, a non-profit organization, and is located at 6450 Arcanum-Bear's Mill Road about 5 miles east of Greenville. For more information, contact Bear's Mill at 548-5112 or www.bearsmill.com.

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Memorial Day event near Winchester

WINCHESTER, IN – A Memorial Day Celebration will be held on May 26, 807 N300E, Winchester, IN. Spittin’ Image will be performing. Bring your own beverages and food, and lawn chair. The event will be held outside. They have a swimming pool for the kids and have horseshoe pitching for the adults. The band will play from 7-11 p.m. Donations are appreciated. For more information, call (765) 546-0147.

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National Dog Bite Prevention Week

DARKE COUNTY - A dog might be a man’s best friend, but is it a letter carrier’s? Warmer weather introduces the sights and sounds of local neighborhoods filled with children playing, letter carriers delivering, and dogs barking. Many of these dogs are safely behind a fence or on a leash. However, there are some situations when a dog can be potentially dangerous.

“That’s why the Postal Service wants to deliver an important message with Dog Bite Prevention Week coming May 19-25, “ says Ansonia Postmaster Mark Flayler and Marjorie Luthman Postmaster of Greenville. “Our letter carriers know first-hand about the prevention and the pain of animal attacks, and we want to help educate the community, especially parents and pet owners.”

More than 4.5 million people are bitten annually by dogs. Last year, nearly 5,600 letter carriers were bitten by dogs across the country. These numbers are pale in comparison to the more than 2 million children who received dog bite injuries in a single year.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) report that small children, the elderly and letter carriers, in that order, are the most frequent victims of dog bites. Children are the majority of victims and are 900 times more likely to be bitten than letter carriers.

How to avoid being bitten:

Don’t run past a dog. The dog’s natural instinct is to chase and catch you. If a dog threatens you, don’t scream. Avoid eye contact. Try to remain motionless until the dog leaves, and then back away slowly until the dog is out of sight.

Don’t approach a strange dog, especially one that’s tethered or confined.

While letter carriers are discouraged from petting animals, people who choose to pet dogs should always let a dog see and sniff them before petting the animal.

Be a responsible dog owner:

Obedience training can teach dogs proper behavior and help owners control their dog in any situation.

When the letter carrier comes to your home, keep your dog inside, away from the door, in another room, or on a leash.

Dogs can be protective of their territory and may interpret the actions of letter carriers as a threat.

Please take precautions when accepting mail in the presence of your pet.

Several Post Offices in the area already experienced two dog attacks this year. One carrier was bitten and the other was attacked, falling to the sidewalk, although not bitten he is now off work for four weeks with an elbow fracture. We ask for all carriers’ safety to keep your pet secure until after mail delivery. Any dog attacks or bites will result in mail delivery being curtailed until a mail box is erected at the sidewalk for the carrier’s safety. We just want to give the best service possible while keeping our carriers safe.

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Sisters’ second book will be available soon

GREENVILLE – With much pride, two sisters have joined together again for a second writing about their forefathers and their settlement within the Darke County area of Greenville.

Betty J. (Lease) Brodrick and Marilyn J. (Lease) Fritz are members of the Darke County Genealogy Society and have been compiling research for over 25 years. The recently completed their second historical booklet called Wakefield and the Leis-Lease Family, early settlers, which consists of various events along with notable accomplishments, that were all a part of their family’s beginnings.

It is a colorful booklet and somewhat smaller than their first book called My Sister’s Story, which contains close to 300 pages. The completed and copyrighted version of Wakefield will be available for the public to enjoy soon.

The two sisters will be donating one dollar from each book sale to the Wakefield School Preservation.

Betty Brodrick and Marilyn Fritz recently completed their second genealogical book, Wakefield. 

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Sorority to sponsor Chicago trip

UNION CITY - The Union City Psi Chapter of Tri Kappa is sponsoring a one-day, chartered bus trip to Chicago on Nov. 2. The bus will leave from the Save-A-Lot parking lot in Union City at 6 a.m. and then from the old Marsh parking lot in Winchester at 6:20 a.m. Breakfast, lunch, games and door prizes will be provided on the trip to Chicago and a snack and family-friendly movie on the return trip. A one-day CTA transportation pass is included in the package.

There will be two drop-off points in Chicago. The first drop-off is in the area of the museum campus, which includes the Field Museum of Natural History, Adler Planetarium, and Shedd Aquarium. The second point will be the Water Tower Place near the Magnificent Mile shopping. Weekly email updates beginning in October will feature Chicago events and attractions and how to get to them.

The cost of the trip is $80. The deadline for registering is Aug. 31. Participants are encouraged to register early as registrations will be filled in order of receipt. Reservations must include payment and are non-refundable but transferable. The trip is open to individuals of any age, but each person must have a seat. To register or acquire additional information, call Elaine Bailey at 547-9912 or stop by Jo’s Corner florist in Union City. Email gebailey1@embarqmail.com for a registration form. The proceeds from this project support scholarships for graduating seniors at Randolph Eastern School and Mississinawa Valley Local School.

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Versailles resident graduates from WSU in his home

VERSAILLES - From his hospital bed in his Versailles home, 22-year-old Brian Voisard can focus on a significant achievement in his young life. Brian, who has Muscular Dystrophy, was hospitalized before his graduation in April from Wright State University’s Raj Soin College of Business. Recently, WSU officials traveled to Versailles and presented him with his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business. The framed diploma hangs in his bedroom where he can look at it from his bed.

“He was smiling the whole time and was really happy,” said his mother Jackie. “I am so proud of him. He has accomplished a lot. It was great to see him get his degree.” Brian, who has been in a wheel chair since he was nine years old, is a State of the Heart Hospice patient. The nonprofit agency cares for patients and families in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life limiting illness.

Even though Brian’s family was told years ago that his life expectancy would be about 19 years of age, he defied the odds, his mother said, and lived an active life until his health deteriorated this past December. Muscular dystrophy is a genetic disease characterized by progressive weakness and degeneration of the skeletal or voluntary muscles which control movement. Unable to swallow, he was losing weight and needed more care. In March, he was placed on a ventilator and had a tracheotomy. The last time he spoke with his parents was March 18.

With help from State of the Heart Hospice caregivers and his family, he is able to remain at home. Since under hospice care, he has looked forward to his visits from State of the Heart Music Therapist Amy Pearson. He likes music, Pearson said, and he had played drums when he was in the Versailles High School band. “He likes music from the 60’s, and songs which brought back special memories. I could tell when he was enjoying something in particular by the way he rolled his eyes and smiled,” she said.

The “special” graduation day for Brian was May 10 in his small bedroom. State of the Heart staff brought a cake which said “Congratulations Brian,” and Pearson had prepared two tapes to be played: Pomp and Circumstance and ‘Celebrate Good Times.’ His hospice friends, close family members and WSU officials gathered around his bed for the presentation of his diploma. After the guests left, Brian and his family played cards, his mother explained. “It definitely was a good day for him,” she said.

Brian led an active life and was involved in many activities, his father Rick explained. He maintained high grades in school and was in the National Honor Society. He was a reader at St. Dennis Catholic Church in Versailles, and the church built a ramp for his wheelchair to go to the altar. There is currently a fundraising effort at the church to purchase a better generator for the family in case of a power outage which would shut down the ventilator, Rick said.

Rick himself has devoted time and energies to help the Muscular Dystrophy Association. He has taken old bicycles and repaired them. After they are fixed, he said, he sells them and donates the proceeds to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Over the years he has been doing this, he estimates the bike sales to generate between $400 to $600 a year. A sign supporting the Muscular Dystrophy Association is prominently placed on the family’s front lawn.

Reflecting on the special graduation for Brian, his mother said, “I know he is happy and grateful to Wright State for giving him his degree. It means a lot to him.”

For more information about State of the Heart Hospice, visit the agency web site at www.stateoftheheartcare.org. The agency has offices in Greenville, Coldwater and Portland.

Pictured with Brian Voisard, are (left to right) WSU Professor Melissa Gruys, WSU Instructor Sherri Herrick, Professor and chairman of the Department of Management and International Business, Bud Baker, and forefront, Joanne Li, Dean of the Raj Soin College of Business at WSU. 

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Greenville Police Beat

“It was only one burglary” 

GREENVILLE - A rash of burglaries continue with Greenville Police arresting Brian Peters and Ty Howell. Greenville police also responded to a suspicious person call in the 1000 block of Central Ave. which resulted in the arrest of Rodney Jett of Springfield for Falsification. Additional Warrant arrests were made on Scott Alan Williams, Dustin B. Clark and Robert Price.

Warrant Arrests 

On May 11 police responded to a Burglary at the residence of Linda Stebbins and David Mangen, 122 Morrow St. Upon returning home from church, they saw that their grandson’s Nintendo DS game console and numerous games were missing from the coffee table. Also missing was a Wii console and game. There were no signs of forced entry. Mangen said he thought the person responsible might be Stebbins’ son, Brian Peters. The Game Stop, when queried, reported matching items had been traded by an individual using a state I.D. card with the name Brian Peters on it. Charges have been filed and an active Warrant issued for his arrest. On May 14 Greenville Police received calls that Peters was staying at 430 E. Fifth St. He was arrested on the Warrant. As he was taken to the cruiser, Peters reportedly said “I can’t believe you guys put me on the news. It was only one burglary.”

On May 9, Scott Alan Williams was observed walking on the path behind the Maid-Rite. He was stopped and arrested for a Felony Warrant for Failure to Appear on two Theft charges. Williams was transported to the Darke County Jail.

On May 10 Dustin B. Clark was observed walking a bicycle on the sidewalk with another male subject. The officer approached Clark and stated “You have a warrant and you’re under arrest.” Clark then got on his bicycle and started to pedal away. The officer gave chase for about 20 feet then employed a Taser. It did not go into the skin, but Clark fell off his bicycle. Clark said “Okay, I give up.” He was handcuffed and searched for weapons. In his possession were a glass pipe and bag, pill bottle with Marijuana in it. The Taser barb was removed from his clothing and he was transported to the Darke County Jail on the warrant with a $2,000 bond. Clark was also charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance and Resisting Arrest.

On May 11 Robert Price turned himself in on a warrant. He had an active arrest Warrant out of Darke County for criminal mischief. He was arrested and transported to the Darke County Jail on $750 bond.

Burglary Reports 

On May 1, Denise Sell, 309 N. Gray Ave., reported a missing laptop HP 300 computer. She advised that she had discovered it missing that morning and noticed a window was slightly open. She was not going to report the incident but was advised that in order to go to the pawn shop she would have to have a police report. A neighbor told Sell that Jacob Howell had said the burglary might have been done by Howell’s brother, Ty. Ty Howell was arrested on May 6 for Aggravated Burglary.

On May 9 Linda Stebbins, who is looking after the resident of Robin Anthony, 118 Morrow, reported that it appeared someone had entered through a back door and had been through a file cabinet in the living room. The top three drawers were open slightly and appeared to have been riffled through. The second drawer had numerous jewelry boxes, all empty. Anthony was contacted and she advised there were several pieces of jewelry in the file cabinet. Prints and photos were taken. Neighbors indicated they had seen nothing.

On May 12 police responded to a call from Abbie Walker, 409 Martin St., regarding a burglary. Someone had kicked in her locked front door and stole her cell phone. Nothing else appeared to be taken.

On May 12 police responded to a call from Tonia Wynn, 426 E. Fifth St., regarding a burglary in which a Playstation 3 was missing. Nothing else appeared to be taken.

Theft Reports 

On May 14, Richard Holsapple, 635 Harrison Ave., reported two tires stolen off of a trailer in the back of his house. No prints were found on the wheel wells and neighbors reported they hadn’t seen anything.

On May 13, Eric Miles, 403 Central Ave., contacted police that a Cobalt air compressor had been taken from outside of his residence.

Shoplifting Reports 

On May 12, police responded to a call from Wal-Mart, 1501 Wagner Ave., regarding the theft of four tablets. The reporting officer was shown a video of the suspects who appeared to be identified as Chadley Michael Best and an unknown female. The suspect was shown placing the tablets under a sweatshirt in his cart with the female acting as “lookout.” The suspect then moved to a different aisle and appeared to remove the security spider wire from the four packages. The suspect then put the items down the front of his shorts, left the cart in the aisle and walked out the front door without paying for the items. Photos were filed with the report.

On May 11 police responded to a report at Wal-Mart, 1501 Wagner Ave., regarding two shoplifting suspects. Moranda Gail Smith and Adam Donald Sturgill were reportedly observed selecting items of clothing, which Smith placed in a bag while Sturgill acted as lookout. Wal-Mart loss prevention employees then followed the suspects walk past the point of sale without paying. Once outside the suspects were stopped and escorted back into the loss prevention office. Smith gave permission to check her bag to verify that all items were returned. A syringe with an orange cap was found. When asked what the syringe was for, Smith reportedly said, “I forgot it was in there,” then refused to answer. The suspects were issued citations for theft. Test results on the syringe may lead to possible drug paraphernalia charges.

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NextStep Ministries helps 302 households with tax filing

GREENVILLE – This tax season, staff and volunteers at NextStep Ministries helped 302 local tax filers keep their full tax refunds through partnership with The Ohio Benefit Bank (OBB), a program of the Ohio Association of Foodbanks. Thanks in part to a capacity building grant from the Ohio Association of Foodbanks, NextStep Ministries connected households with more than $344,000 in tax credits and refunds. Plus, by helping community members file their taxes for free, NextStep saved them an estimated $43,186 in tax preparation fees.

“This is the third year the grant has been available to us. It has enabled us to reach many more people in Darke County and the surrounding area by helping us promote our tax services to the public. It also allowed us to purchase much needed equipment for our tax site.” said Kristy Cutarelli, Outreach Ministries Coordinator for EUM Church. “Because of the capacity building grant we were able to exceed all of our goals for this tax season.”

Forty-two OBB sites throughout Ohio received capacity building grants to support their free tax filing services. In total, those grantees helped to file 11,392 federal tax returns and 10,897 state tax returns, connecting low- and moderate-income Ohioans with more than $17.8 million in tax credits and refunds.

Hundreds of other faith-based and community organizations also provided free tax filing assistance through the OBB, and many more Ohio taxpayers used the free OBB Self-Serve module at ohiobenefits.org to file their taxes on their own. Statewide, the OBB connected nearly 26,000 Ohioans with more than $44.4 million in tax refunds, helping them keep more of their hard-earned money.

“This year marked the most successful tax season yet for the OBB network,” said Lisa Hamler-Fugitt, executive director of the Ohio Association of Foodbanks. “These important tax credits and refunds—accessed for free through our network—will help the low- and moderate-income Ohioans we serve every day to pay bills, make household repairs and build emergency savings accounts.”

The Ohio Benefit Bank provides free tax filing services year-round, so Ohioans who need to file back taxes or are still owed a refund for this year can visit ohiobenefits.org to file for free today. Since its inception, the OBB has connected over 84,000 Ohioans with nearly $187 million in tax refunds.

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Diaper Drive to benefit Pregnancy Help Center

GREENVILLE - Greenville High School exchange students with the International Student Exchange program are now conducting a Diaper Drive to benefit the Pregnancy Help Center in Greenville. The students are collecting diapers (sizes 3, 4 and 5), as well as wet wipes, which clients at the Help Center may receive by participating in parenting education classes. The Diaper Drive will run through May 31 with drop off locations at Greenville High School, Bread of Life, Solutions Hair Salon, the Coffee Pot, Walmart, and Trinity Wesleyan Church.

Exchange students with the program are required to complete a minimum of five community service hours to give back to the community they live in while here in the U.S. They thank all who participate in the drive. For more information, contact Heather Brown, 997-2209 or http://www.iseusa.com/

Nina Schneider (Austria), Lena Stephan (Germany), Jiyeong Woo (South Korea), Robin Mai (Germany), and Diego Almada (Mexico). 

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2014 pet calendars

DARKE COUNTY - The Darke County Friends of the Shelter will be making 2014 calendars. Enter your Pet's picture for a chance to become a Star in the 2014 calendar. Bring a photo or digital picture to the Darke County Animal Shelter, located just beyond the Sheriff's Department. All pictures must be submitted by July 5.

You can also submit the form online. Go to http://www.kometweb.com/calendar2014.html fill out the form and send the digital photo of your pet via e-mail

For more information, contact the Animal Shelter at 547-1645. To see the dogs they have, visit www.darkecountyanimalshelter.com.

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2013 Versailles Poultry Days donation recipients

VERSAILLES - Versailles Poultry Days is a volunteer based organization dedicated to serving the Versailles community by supporting community projects and activities that improve quality of life and create an inviting environment for people of all ages.

In the last 10 years Poultry Days has donated more than $700,000 in the community excluding funds raised by partner organizations. This has included supporting the Hole Field renovation, construction of a multipurpose athletic building, new park shelter house, improvements to school grounds and mostly recently a commitment to the Diamond Club project.

Poultry Days owns and operates a 40 acre public park including shelters, ponds, walking track and both soccer and baseball fields which is available for community use and athletics.

Donations 2003-2012 - Heritage Park Fund, Versailles Acme Baseball, Children’s Shrine Hospital, Boy Scouts, Council of Churches, Versailles Historical Society, VHS Bowling Program, ACME Baseball, VHS Board of Education, Versailles Community Scholarship, Kinder Korner, Versailles DARE, Versailles EMS, Versailles Bike Rodeo, Versailles Fire Dept., Friends of Versailles Performing Arts, Trinity Lutheran Church, Relay for Life, VHS Girls Basketball, Friends of Hole Field, Diamond Club, Versailles Youth Wrestling.

Pictured are (Front Row): Deb Pohl (Versailles Museum), Eric Stachler (Poultry Days Chairman), Therese Pohlman (Versailles Council of Churches), (Second Row): Brian Henry (Poultry Days 3rd Chairman), Matt Watren (Diamond Club), Shawn Peters (Poultry Days 1st Chairman), Chris Gigandet (Heritage Park), Tiffany Bergman (Kinder Korner), Brian Pearson (Poultry Days 2nd Chairman), Isacc Brandewie, Quincy Baltes, Stuart Baltes, Ryan Martin, and Drew Martin (Boy Scouts), Kevin Kissinger (Poultry Days 4 th Chairman), (Back Row): Kevin Grilliot (Versailles Performing Arts), Mitch Hoying (Versailles ACME Baseball), Bob Frey (Bike Rodeo), Dale Dickman (Shriners) and Tom Donnelly (Versailles Museum). 

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Little by Little gives info on support group

GREENVILLE – Are you in need of a weight loss support group? Need help to make healthy choices? Need encouragement? Want to make new friends? If so, there is a group for you. Little by Little meets the first Tuesday of each month in the basement of the East Main Church of Christ, 419 East Main St., Greenville. There is a chair lift for those who have trouble going down steps. The doors open at 5:30, with the meeting beginning at 6 p.m.

Little by Little is a Non-profit group and there are no membership fees. Both men and women are welcome. Most members have gone through gastric bypass, or some other form of weight loss surgery. Weight loss surgery is not required to attend these meetings.

Some of the programs have included healthy recipe tips and cooking demonstrations, exercise tips, open group discussions, which allow everyone to talk freely about their lives, experiences, good times verses bad times, or just about their daily struggles when it comes to eating, and discussions on making good choices at the grocery store. Guest speakers have provided great information and they plan to have more speakers soon.

They are not professionals, and do not hand out set diet plans. That is between you and your family doctor. They do offer a lot of knowledge, moral support and great friendship. If interested in more information about the group, contact Tammy Hoff at tammy9157@roadrunner.com or by phone, 621-5129.

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Dr. John Studebaker speaks at POP meeting

VERSAILLES – Dr. John Studebaker spoke at the Versailles Health Care Center during the Power Over Parkinson’s meeting on May 8. He shared his presentation, “Vitamin D-Dramatic New Discoveries and Applications” with 54 attendees. Dr. Studebaker practices and does consultations in Integrative Holistic Medicine in Greenville.

Jim Caudill of Sidney was the winner of the door prize giveaway, good for a free entrée, compliments of Michael Anthony’s at the Inn.

Power Over Parkinson’s meets monthly on the second Wednesday of each month, 4 p.m., to exercise, socialize and learn. It is a free event, open to people with Parkinson’s Disease and their families. The next Power Over Parkinson’s group is June 12, 4 p.m., at the Rehab Clinic at Versailles Health Care Center. The guest speaker will be Angie Hoschouer, Radio Reading Service Program Manager at Goodwill Easter Seals Miami Valley. She will be sharing her presentation, “Senior Services and Other Great Programs provided by Goodwill Easter Seals Miami Valley” with the group.

For more information about Power Over Parkinson’s, call Facility Rehab Director, Shannon Condon, 526-0130.

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Therapists receive Delay the Disease certification

VERSAILLES – Shannon Condon and Gina Boerger, Therapists at Versailles Health Care Center, recently attended a two-day certification course in Columbus, led by David Zid, one of the founders of the national Delay the Disease organization.

Zid, the leading practitioner of exercise-based movement disorder programs, is a graduate of The Ohio State University and has been a professional fitness instructor in Columbus, Ohio since 1997. Certified through the American Council on Exercise (ACE) and Absolute Performance Group (APG) as a personal trainer functional fitness trainer, he is the owner and president of Columbus Health Works. He developed his Parkinson’s specific exercise programs as a result of his own interest in fitness for older adults.

Since publishing his first book in 2007, he has made it his mission to make life better for people with Parkinson’s. In addition to sharing his expertise and observations with physicians, physical therapists and fitness professional throughout the country, he also donates his time to the Columbus Parkinson’s Community. His clients and class participants are living proof that, with the right attitude and exercise program, it is possible to Delay the Disease.

Pictured are Shannon Condon, MA, CCC SLP, David Zid, and Gina Boerger, PT.

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Old school houses preservation project is now underway

ARCANUM – Thanks to the Arcanum High School students and organizer Principle Jason Stephan, the old one and two room school houses in Twin, Van Buren, and Butler townships were recently photographed on location as part of Arcanum’s “Serve Arcanum” project to enable students to give back to their community.

The photographs will be on file with the area’s Arcanum Wayne Trail Historical Societies Reference Library as a means for researchers to view the remaining school houses in the surrounding area or locations of where they once stood. Many are simply gone while a few have been turned into residences or restored and many are in disarray. One in Miami County is currently a country shop. Part of preservation is restoring the old properties or maintaining them to some degree and recording the history of each building by story and photographing. It is also acquiring old photos and announcements cards from family members who attended here years ago.

Per Herb Anthony who attended Center School, #4, which is located in Twin Township, on Grubbs Rex Road east of Arcanum-Ithaca Road, he said “In 1933 I attended here. It closed in 1936 and I went to Arcanum for 4-6th grades. We moved so I then attended Butler School from 1939-1942 and finished eighth grade. Since Butler only went to eighth grade I chose to go to Arcanum in 1942. I was able to choose between Monroe, New Madison, or Arcanum for High School.”

They are looking for your story if you or your family attended a one or two room school house in Franklin, Monroe, Twin, Van Buren, or Butler townships. Or if you have restored or currently live in an old school house they would enjoy hearing your story of your work. Please contact Annette Stewart, 692-6462 or the Arcanum Wayne Trail Historical Society e-mail: webmaster@arcanumhistoricalsociety.org.

Shown is Center School #4, today. New window panes were installed on the east side of the building and are “pegged”. The soffit trim will be replaced on this side, also. Both ends of the building contain original corbels trim under the roof line. The bell was “removed” years ago and the current owner of the property is looking into replacing the belfry and searching for photos of the building to help with the original design. 

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