Opinion Darke County News Online

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State Representative Jim Buchy… Celebrating Thanksgiving without Turkeys…Sort of
Many families will carve turkeys on their dinner tables, but when it comes to hunting wild turkey, certain parts of the state have to go without this time of year. In Ohio we have two wild turkey seasons. One in the spring and one in the fall. But for years, throughout most of western Ohio, there hasn’t been a fall turkey season. Just like any wild game the hunting season is based on the population of the game in that area. As conservationists continue to increase the… read more.

Rep. Richard Adams… What Can the Gettysburg Address Teach Us About Thanksgiving?
November 19th of this year marked the 150th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln’s iconic “Gettysburg Address.” During the speech, Lincoln expressed not only a great love for his country, but also sent a clear message that a nation founded on liberty can only survive if its people are dedicated to maintaining it. We all know how it starts: “Four score and seven years ago…” That is about the point where many of us trail off. But if you have ever read the… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… So Many Things to Be Thankful For This Year
Each year, Connie and I look forward to the Thanksgiving holiday as a chance to spend time with our family and friends. It gives us a chance to reflect on the blessings that are too often overlooked. President Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863 in the midst of the Civil War. Through the darkest days of war and gravest moments in our nation’s history, Lincoln saw the need to acknowledge our blessings. Nearly 150 years later, we continue… read more.

A Time To Be Thankful, By Sam Custer, OSU Extension, Darke County
During this season of thanks, I extend to you my appreciation for your continued support of our educational and informational programs conducted throughout the year. Extension’s heartbeat is the involvement of the people in its programs. People such as you, who visit, contribute, ask, volunteer, or learn, provide a strong heartbeat in our community. Our goal is to service the entire community by providing research-based education that will… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…Can't Touch This? By Aprill Brandon
Here's a fun trivia game. Wanna guess how many times I've gotten up to pee while typing this sentence? Nine. OK, OK, maybe I'm exaggerating a little. But only a little. Luckily I'm a pretty fast typist or it could have been true. Seriously, as if my constant snarting wasn't bad enough (sneezing plus farting at the same time equals snarting), I now have to worry about wetting myself any time I do something more taxing than… read more.

Senator Sherrod Brown… Ensuring Ohio Manufacturers Can Out-Innovate the Rest of the World
In Ohio, we know that manufacturing is a ticket to the middle class. But for too long, Washington has made choices that leave domestic manufacturing behind – whether it’s bad trade deals, not enforcing trade laws, unfair taxes, or not investing in innovation and technology. As a result, our nation has suffered more than 60,000 plant closures since 2000, and lost more than five million manufacturing jobs. This affects our entire economy because… read more.

The Other Side of the Edge… When did Oprah become Al Sharpton?? By Joe Facinoli
In a recent interview with the BBC, while in London promoting her new movie, Oprah Winfrey decided it might be a good idea to morph into Al Sharpton. Unfortunately, this choice put her at that most dangerous intersection, where double standards become the “double-edged sword” of hypocrisy, and of pure, true, unadulterated racism, ….reverse, or any other kind. Ms. Sharpton,….er,…Winfrey, stated clearly, in a video now gone viral, that regarding… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… States Can Lead the Way in Reducing the National Debt
Here in the state of Ohio, we are required to balance our two-year budget, which means there are many difficult decisions that have to be made by lawmakers in order to comply with the Ohio Constitution. But because of this requirement, we are forced to sit down and seriously consider what things need funding and what things don’t. It is the same way for Ohio families. They understand that responsible budgeting requires smart decisions and balances between what… read more.

The Grumpy Side of 60…Role models, By Bob Robinson
For those of you who often ask, my life does not revolve around the kids I teach at school. I love my grandkids, too. I have four in Montana who are adults… or soon will be. I did my best to spoil them years ago; not much I can do for (or to) them now. I have two here in Ohio who are just starting their journey in life. Can anyone say “the terrible two’s” or “the horrible three’s?” I’ve heard people moan about that all my life. I have yet to see it. Is that … read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Three House Bills Address Common Core
There are currently three bills before the Ohio House that address new educational standards, known as Common Core. In talking to and meeting with the residents of the 84th House District, I know this is a very important issue in our region. I encourage you to continue contacting my office in Columbus and also sharing your thoughts with local school administrators. Ensuring a solid education for our children is one of the most important components of… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…Hoarders on a Road Trip, By Aprill Brandon
Indulge me for a second, if you will. I want you to close your eyes and picture the following: You're driving down the Interstate, minding your own business. Perhaps you're heading home after a long day of work or maybe you're picking your kid up from soccer practice. Or it could even be that you're on your way to dinner reservations with your in-laws, which you're dreading because Phil always has too much to drink and then plays his… read more.

U.S. Representative John Boehner… More Ohioans Share Their ObamaCare Stories
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John Boehner (R-West Chester) released the following column discussing the negative effect the president’s health care law is having on families: “In 2009, while trying to sell the public on his health care law, President Obama made a promise: ‘If you like your health care plan, you can keep your health care plan. Period.’ It was simple. It was catchy. And the president used it again and again. At least thirty-six… read more.

The Other Side of the Edge….. A Time…..Forever Lost, By Joe Facinoli
NOTE: In honor of the milepost anniversary, later this week, for one of the most significant and sorrowful dates in American History, I’ve revived a piece from about 6 months ago, which was written then, for a very different reason. The sentiment, as well as the truth of it, still holds, but I’ve edited it (and shortened it) quite a bit, in order to focus more on the shared emotion of those remarkable times, and of that most heartbreaking moment. It’s been 50… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Strengthening Social Security for Generations to Come
Tuesday, November 12, 2013 - As a grandfather of two, with one more grandchild on the way, I appreciate what a wonderful gift it is when grandparents can spend more time with their grandchildren by living longer and healthier lives – which happened, in part, because we, as a nation, invested in Social Security. Today, almost 63 million Americans receive Social Security benefits. And in Ohio, that number is nearly two million. Yet, just as we as… read more.

U.S. Representative John Boehner… A Letter to America’s Veterans on Veterans Day
To the veterans of our Armed Forces: I recently sat down to write a note to a service member from Cincinnati named Josh Hargis, known to many Americans for his ‘salute seen around the world.’ It happened last month after he was wounded during a suicide attack in Afghanistan’s Kandahar Province. Just as Josh was coming out of surgery - and presumed to be unconscious - his commanding officer arrived to deliver the Purple Heart. The Cincinnati… read more.

Representative Richard Adams… Higher Education Study Committees Work to Benefit Students
As Ohio makes strides in the economy and job creation, another piece of the puzzle is making sure that those students who are interested in continuing their education can find success in college without going broke. I had the opportunity of being a member of the House Higher Education Study Committee this last summer. Along with my fellow representatives, we traveled the state to speak with college representatives, members of the public and… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…Weight just a minute, By Aprill Brandon
There are two ways of dealing with pregnancy. 1. Spending nine months treating your body as a sacred vessel and as such only filling it with healthy things, like kale and whatever the hell quinoa is. Or... 2. Spending nine months daydreaming of the time when you were free to slowly destroy your body with ingredients that technically should never be ingested by a living thing. And occasionally choking down a stupid carrot. I, believe it or… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Medicaid Reform Now More Important than Ever
Just a few weeks back the headlines across the state generally read: “Governor takes Medicaid Expansion to the Controlling Board.” A board many Ohioans have probably not heard of, the Controlling Board approves appropriations for state agencies based on legislative intent of the state budget. This time the board was asked to authorize the release of federal dollars to cover the costs of the expanding Medicaid program. I did not agree with this approach… read more.

The White House
Hello -- This week, the U.S. Senate voted to consider the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, or ENDA. This legislation has a very clear purpose: to make sure that no one can be fired for who they are or who they love. Right now, only 17 states prohibit employment discrimination against LGBT workers. That leaves millions of Americans who go to work every day fearing that they could lose their job because of who they are. As the… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge… “I’m Sorry….?” Where’s Brenda Lee, When We Need Her….?
By Joe Facinoli -- “I’m sorry,….so sorry,….please accept my a-pol-o-gy….” No, that wasn’t sweet Brenda we heard last week, falsetto-ing out sincere and heartfelt regrets, over past unspeakable indiscretions. Nope, …that was our El Presidente, our ever so benevolent and thoughtful ruler, stepping off the throne for just a moment, long enough to tell a favorite NBC News reporter just how sorry he felt, for any inconvenience that may be happening, after a… read more.

Grumpy Side of 60…Special kids, special memories, By Bob Robinson
Who are you? Lilly. Lilly who? Lilly Vampire! And she looked like one, too. A vampire. About 60 seconds earlier I ran into Ghoulia, whoever that is. She had blue hair. Daddy said it was from Monster High. Whatever that is. So I looked it up… actually her name was Goulia Yelps from Monster High’s Teenage Children of Legendary Monsters, and they take Creepariffic Classes… Good grief I’m old! Vampires I get… Goulia Yelps in Creepariffic classes … read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…The trick-or-treater always rings twice, By Aprill Brandon
It was a dark and stormy night. Well, dark and sprinkling a little bit. But that annoying kind of sprinkle that gets your clothes all soggy. It was quiet inside the house. Perhaps a bit too quiet. Well, not really too quiet. I mean, the TV was on. And for some reason the fridge always emitted a high-pitch squeal that could be heard throughout the rest of the house. But everyone ignored that sound because it probably meant the fridge was on its… read more.

Injection Wells in Darke County, By Bob Rhoades
Sometimes one has to wait to see what nuts fall out of the tree on the injection matter. They may not have all fallen yet, but here are some thoughts. A few years ago, because of my job, I had to attend a Ground Water class at EPA School in Cincy. Over the course of a couple years, this turned into about three classes. I learned a lot about monitoring the underground and probably forgot more than I remember. Leaking underground … read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Safety Measures in Fall Sports are Changing
The fall sports season is in full swing, and here in west central Ohio we have some great athletes that we all want to cheer on. Whether it is tennis, cross country, volleyball, soccer and football or any other number of fall activities, safety is paramount. At many sporting events a medical professional accompanies the team to ensure safety. Over time we have gained more understanding of the importance for a competent medical professional to accompany the team… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge…. Did He Say “Period!”? ....I Think He Meant “Comma” By Joe Facinoli
A Dog, no matter how many times, and ways, you try to make it be something different, ….is still a dog. Especially when it pees on your new carpet, and leaves little “throw-up presents” (as well as those dreaded “other” kind) around everywhere, for you to step on later, and usually at the worst possible times. A Pig, regardless of how often you may choose to look at it as being so many strips of heavenly delicious bacon (albeit muddy and filthy ones)… read more.

U.S. Representative John Boehner… ObamaCare Problems Go Far Beyond the Website
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John Boehner (R-West Chester) released the following column discussing the negative effect the president’s health care law is having on families and small businesses: “As your representative, I spend time at home in Ohio traveling through our communities whenever I can. These listening tours help me better serve our area, and they allow me to see firsthand how Washington policies affect families and small… read more.

Commissioners Corner… Cautiously optimistic as year closes
October is almost over, and with that the end of fall grows closer. That means colder weather cannot be far behind, the end of High School Football is nearer, and fall events lessen and winter events take over. It has been a good fall so far, so let’s hope that winter will treat us just as kindly. October has been a particularly busy month in the County for the Commissioners, as we get ready for appropriation meetings… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…Top 8 Parenting Myths Busted, By Aprill Brandon
I know what you're thinking. What the hell does a first-time mom who is only six months pregnant know about parenting? And the answer is, of course, nothing. Well, almost nothing. I do know that the first poop the baby takes once it's outside the uterus is apparently a mix of dark matter and pure evil, but I only know that because I read too far in my pregnancy book last week. But after extensive and thorough research where… read more.

John Kasich- apostle or chameleon? By Jim Surber
Back in the heady days of the 1990’s when politicians like Newt Gingrich and John Boehner resolved to change the fiscal direction of the federal government; John Kasich was the Republican chairman of the House Budget Committee and swung a ferocious budget ax. Later in 2010, after a stint on Wall Street, Kasich was elected Ohio governor under the Tea Party sign. His recently-passed $62 billion state budget included higher sales and property taxes, but little… read more.

The Other Side of the Edge… Spin, on Steroids,….or is it?? By Joe Facinoli
Nope. Sorry. Not buyin’ it. Nobody, especially not the President, can be this stupid,….this arrogantly, blatantly, cluelessly in-your-face, mystifyingly stupid,.….if not on purpose. We’re looking at all this mess through the prism of logic, and of common sense, and of the way it’s always been, and the way we remember it being, and the way we still want it to be. But it’s none of that. Not now,….not after what happened. Call it what you might, but it’s not… read more.

Grumpy Side of 60… She still doesn’t like me, By Bob Robinson
“Oooh… what kind of ring is that?” “My college class ring.” “Oh.” Disappointed. “I thought it was a Super Bowl ring.” I grinned. Not likely, I thought, unless 40 or 50 years ago they might have wanted me for a goal post. They didn’t even have a Super Bowl then. “Nope. Sorry. Why? Does it look like a Super Bowl ring?” He shrugged. “I dunno,” he said. “Never seen one, but it’s fancy like a Super Bowl ring would be.” His older sister gave him one of those… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy…JobsOhio An Important Part of Growing State’s Economy
A major part of bringing new businesses and jobs to Ohio is working closely with those businesses and explaining the benefits and advantages of locating in our state. In Ohio, a lot of that collaboration is done by a development entity made up of people with business background and experience called JobsOhio. JobsOhio was created in the first bill passed by the Ohio House in January 2011, and since that time has helped the state climb out of the economic hole… read more.

Townhall Fracking meeting Monday, By Rita McCans
Ohio is fast becoming the dumping ground for the disposal of toxic/radioactive waste from accelerated horizontal hydro-fracturing. In 2012, alone, Ohio disposed of 14 million barrels of this waste, which came from Pennsylvania, West Virginia and as far away as Texas. As plans are underway to permit more fracking wells not only in Ohio but in neighboring states close to our western border, there is a growing need for more Class II waste disposal wells (Class I wells were designed for hazardous/toxic waste… read more.

The White House… More than just a website
On October 1st, even as the federal government was shutting down, HealthCare.gov -- the new Health Insurance Marketplace where people can find and apply for affordable health insurance plans as part of Obamacare -- opened for business nationwide. As you may have heard, the website launch hasn’t gone nearly as smoothly as it should have. And with nearly 20 million visits to the site in the first several weeks, the problems were… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…Halloween fun for all ages, By Aprill Brandon
Depending on your age, Halloween can be a very different holiday for different people. For example, if you're a young kid, it's a magical night where you get dressed up in a costume and beg people for candy. If you're a young woman, it's a magical night where you cleverly dress as a naughty version of some random noun and beg people for attention. And if you're a young man, it's a magical night where you follow those women around and beg for… read more.

State Senator Bill Beagle… Celebrating Ohio Manufacturing
For much of the 20th and 21st Centuries, the many sectors of the manufacturing industry served as the backbone of Ohio’s economy. This history includes a strong tradition of hard work and great pride in what we’ve created right here in the Buckeye State. Today, the manufacturing industry has changed through advancements in technology, but remains as strong as ever. In fact, 2013 brings with it a manufacturing industry with a wide range of career possibilities… read more.

The White House
Hello, everyone -- Late Wednesday night, after a 16-day shutdown, the President signed a bill to reopen the government and pay our country's bills. Today, a government shutdown over delaying or defunding the health care law can no longer hurt our economy. We are no longer facing the threat of default. While this bipartisan compromise is the right thing to do for the country, there are no winners when Washington keeps hijacking our… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Still a Ways to Go, But Ohio’s Economy Headed in Right Direction
It has been a little more than a month ago since the tax changes in the budget took effect, so I wanted to take an opportunity to remind the residents of the 84th House District of some of the specific changes that were included. As a whole, income-earners in Ohio will see a net $2.7 billion reduction in their income taxes, which will keep more money in the hands of Ohio families where it belongs and will help to spur further job creation. In that three-year… read more.

U.S. Congressman John Boehner…Bipartisan Senate Agreement to Reopen Government, Avoid Default
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Boehner (R-West Chester) released the following statement regarding the bipartisan Senate agreement to reopen the federal government and avoid a national default: “The House has fought with everything it has to convince the president of the United States to engage in bipartisan negotiations … read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…Gee thanks, Obamacare, By Aprill Brandon
Well, I can officially check off that whole "through sickness" marriage vow. (That's how it works, right? You do it once and then you're off the hook?). Although technically, it was more of an injury than a sickness but the point is, when my husband busted his head open last Friday after slipping in the kitchen, I didn't run away. I didn't roll over and go back to sleep, ignoring his yells (even though I was like, SUPER tired). I didn't even pass out… read more.

Grumpy Side of 60… The generations to come, By Bob Robinson
“Feet on the floor, please.” “Hey, you didn’t tell her that…” “I didn’t see it…” “But this is comfortable…” Kindergarten? Nope. Junior high? Nope. College. Post-secondary. High school juniors and seniors on the college track. “Come on guys. Feet on the floor. You’re in college! You are adults!” She grinned. “Well… not really. Kinda halfway in between maybe?” Hmm. She had a point. With a little more grumbling – but still smiling – she put her feet on the… read more.

The game is still a game, By Jim Surber
There are two distinct, partisan, schools of thought on who is really to blame for the federal government’s current shutdown. According to the President, it’s the ideologically obstinate, congressional Republicans who will do anything to undermine the Affordable Care Act, the signature achievement of his presidency. For those same Republicans, it’s the president who deserves all the blame by refusing to compromise one bit on a policy measure that even his… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Farm Safety—Many Changes Over Time that Keep You Safe During Harvest Season
The autumn season is in full swing and in farm country we don’t just look at the leaves to notice this change. In western Ohio, the crops have dried and farmers are on the road with wagons, semis, and combines, or as people in my generation call them self propelled harvesters. This season also brings serious concern for the safety of our families… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge... Deeds,…..not Words, Make Things Happen, By Joe Facinoli
Saying that it’s so,…..doesn’t make it so,…..Mr. President. Telling us that you’re the King,…..does not make you a King. Acting like, and making yourself sound like a boss,…..does not give you the authority to be the boss. Especially when the Constitution says that you’re not, …..or at least that you have a couple of other bosses, of EQUAL authority, within your “organization”. And Playing God,…..does not anoint you as a deity (try as you might). When the… read more.

U.S. Congressman John Boehner…“There’s Going to Be a Negotiation” on Government Funding, Debt Limit, ObamaCare
WASHINGTON, D.C. – At a press conference today, Congressman John Boehner (R-West Chester) addressed President Obama’s continuing refusal negotiate a path forward on funding the government, raising the debt limit, and protecting all Americans from ObamaCare. As Boehner noted, presidents of both parties have repeatedly… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Medicaid—A Local Impact
Most of the talk thus far about what to do about Ohio’s Medicaid program has looked at it from a statewide perspective. Throughout the summer and now into the fall, the House has been carefully studying this issue to see what we think is the best path forward. Those discussions will continue, and indeed intensify, as the committee process unfolds in the coming weeks. Many constituents have strong opinions on the topic of Medicaid. Some want expansion but others… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… My (Broken) Hip Neighborhood, By Aprill Brandon
I'm not quite sure when it happened. Whether it snuck up on me all of a sudden or gradually yet systematically took me down, I couldn't tell you. Were there signs and I just didn't notice them? No bloody idea. All I know is that there is no going back now. Because somehow when I wasn't looking, I crossed the threshold from being young and (arguably) hip to being that 30-something lady who refers to every male singer under the age of 20… read more.

U.S. Representative John …Obama Administration Should Do Right By Wright-Patt Civilian Employees
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following column discussing the administration’s decision to disregard the Pay Our Military Act and furlough civilian employees at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base: “This week, I received thousands of messages from Eighth District residents about… read more.

The Other Side of the Edge….. The Tea Party….No Changes in 240 years., By Joe Facinoli
They shouted “No Taxation, Without Representation”, and then old Sam Adams, and a hundred other brave patriots, dumped about 45 tons of King George’s finest tea, into the waters of Boston Harbor. Why? Because the “Tea Partiers” of 1773, who fittingly called themselves “The Sons of Liberty”, stood on principle, what was right, and what would be best for their country, their wannabe nation, and all of the people in it. They took what they thought to be the… read more.

The White House, By David Simas
We’re now three days into a shutdown of the federal government. Real Americans are being hurt, and our economy is paying the price. Reports have come out detailing how hundreds of thousands of people don’t know when their next paycheck will come. Millions of Americans, including veterans and seniors, are at risk of losing the benefits they’ve paid for, earned, and rely on. For all that, we’re exactly where we were Monday night: If … read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…The Name Game, By Aprill Brandon
HOST: Hello, hello, hello and welcome to another round of everyone's favorite past time: The Name Game! The only game where soon-to-be parents attempt to pick out a name for their unborn child while facing a series of seemingly insurmountable challenges. I'm your host, Smiley McToothy. Let's meet our first contestant. Fresh off the couch and actually wearing real pants today, say hello to Aprill! [Clap, Clap, Clap] So, Aprill, it says … read more.

The Other Side of the Edge….. Racism Changes Its Colors….. By Joe Facinoli
Racism (ra’siz em) noun: 1. The notion that one’s own ethnic stock is superior. 2. The belief that each race has certain qualities or abilities, giving rise to the view that some races are better than others. 3. Discrimination against, or hostility towards, other races. (see also: racist –noun or adjective) Where, in Merriam-Webster’s clear definition above, does it mention, or even imply, that when one person, of a certain or given race (or color), criticizes… read more.

Commissioners Corner… Combating drugs, wrapping up fiscal year
September is coming to a close, football season is in full swing, some of the crops in the county are coming off the fields, and cool, crisp days are here. The unmistakable signs of fall are here. Fall is one of the best times is Darke County. Cooler days and nights make things like yard work, or any work outside much more tolerable. Darke County is also one of the prettiest places to be this time of year. The trees… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Promoting Adult Education and Success in the Workforce
According to the National Assessment of Adult Literacy reports, some 90,000,000 adults do not possess the basic skills – literacy, numeracy, and command over the English language – needed for success at home and the workplace. And while our nation’s unemployment rate last month was 7.3 percent, it was 3.5 percent for individuals with a bachelor’s degree and 11.3 percent for those without a high school diploma. This week – National Adult Education… read more.

Sinking your half of the boat, By Jim Surber
What will be the result of the U.S. House Republicans’ last-ditch effort to block the Affordable Care Act more popularly known as Obamacare? My first reaction is that this is what happens to a party that has been hijacked by zealots. If they can’t take over Washington, then they’ll shut it down. If a definition of insanity is doing the same thing twice and expecting different results, then what is defined by 41 attempts to repeal the same law? For all the hype and… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy…Common Core - Coming to a School Near You?
For the past several months I have been learning a lot about the Common Core. This is a new standards model that is going into effect in our schools now. The State of Ohio decided in 2010 to adopt the Common Core English and Math standards to bring a more rigorous curriculum to our schools. This was part of a movement that started in local schools and was adopted by the state to align with other states. At this time Ohio is not changing standards for… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Enrolling for a New Health Plan
In less than two weeks, enrollment begins for the health law’s new insurance marketplace, allowing almost one million Ohioans to become eligible for financial assistance to purchase quality, affordable health insurance. Starting October 1, Ohioans without insurance, or those who would like to change their insurance plans, can shop for health insurance coverage at www.healthcare.gov. For years, we’ve heard stories of Americans frustrated and failed by our… read more.

The White House, Dan Pfeiffer
Hello -- Right now, Congress has two jobs: to pass a budget that invests in the middle class and to pay the bills it has already incurred. But instead of doing their jobs, a few reckless Republicans in Congress are so obsessed with refighting old political battles over Obamacare that they're threatening to shut down the government and stop paying the country's bills. On Friday, these House Republicans voted to shut down the government unless… read more.

Of cats and coffee, By Jim Surber
First, I must confess that I have never been a coffee drinker. I have never liked the taste but certainly have no quarrel with those who do. Like chewing tobacco, I tried it but never liked it. That said, I was intrigued by a recent news article describing how scientists have designed a test to verify the genuineness of the world’s most expensive coffee bean called Kopi Luwak. By using a “metabolic fingerprint,” with something called metabolomics technology, the… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…Top 10 Perks of Being Pregnant, By Aprill Brandon
10. People will always insist you sit down. Your mom, your significant other, your co-workers, even the 98-year-old man with scolosis on the subway will get up and insist you sit down. Already sitting down? No worries. They will then insist that you lie down. Being pregnant, it is practically your JOB to be lazy. That is, unless you listen to "some" people who will insist you stay physically active. But "those" people are doctors and are stupid… read more.

Discusses Debt Limit, Defunding ObamaCare
WASHINGTON, D.C. – At a press conference with Republican leaders today, Congressman John (R-West Chester) reiterated that, for decades, presidents of both parties have worked with Congress on debt limit legislation that includes spending cuts, and this year should be no different. also highlighted House Republicans’ continuing effort to protect all Americans from the president’s train wreck of a health care law. Following are… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge… Go Ahead….Shut it Down !! By Joe Facinoli
Do us a favor,.…please,……SHUT IT DOWN !! The Democrats in the U.S. Senate are threatening to “shut down the federal government”, by way of not voting to approve next year’s budget, if those dastardly Republicans in that chamber don’t go along with raising our federal debt ceiling, and/or make good on their attempt to defund Obamacare. And,…..the bad news in this, ….is what, exactly ?? I say, go ahead, shut the whole thing down! Do what 80 years… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… We All Have a Role to Play to Ensure a Safe School Year
Now that school has been back in session for a couple of weeks, we have all noticed the increased school bus traffic on the roads. Besides just the buses, high school students, teachers, principals and faculty members also travel to school each morning. It is very important that we, as drivers, are cognizant of the increased traffic on the roads, and with school buses stopping to pick up and drop off children, the attention given to safety rest on everybody’s shoulders… read more.

The Grumpy Side of 60… I can spell crocodile, By Bob Robinson
She stood up and walked around her classmates toward me… her eyes were fixed on the book I was reading. Uh… actually no… they were fixed on my hand… uh… no… they were fixed on my ring. I was a “novice” sub at the time. I just kept on reading. She reached my hand – the ring – and started running a finger over the shield and other etchings that make a Texas A&M “Aggie” ring one of the most recognizable rings in the world… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown…Five Years After Near Economic Collapse, Working to End Future Bailouts
Five years ago, the collapse of Lehman Brothers put our economy on the brink of collapse and jeopardized the savings and pensions of millions of Americans. The Lehman Brothers collapse was significant for another reason as well. Because the federal government bailed out other financial institutions before and after Lehman’s failure, it … read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… County Fairs, a Place for Everyone
It has been great to share the fun-filled experiences with all of you as I attended each of the four county fairs in the district. From the first fair in Shelby County, which started July 21st, to the last fair in Darke County ending on August 24th, trips to the fairs have been made for over a month now and I enjoyed them to the fullest. It was nice to see my family, friends and constituents back home that honestly make the biggest difference in my life. When… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…Pregnancy: Farter for the greater good, By Aprill Brandon
So, I'm still pregnant. I know! I feel like I've been pregnant forever too. In fact, I'm having trouble remembering a time when I wasn't pregnant. (Just kidding. I remember all too well. I have nightly lucid dreams in which I drink Scotch and smoke cigars while taking a bath in Diet Coke and stuffing my face with unpasteurized soft cheeses. In these dreams, I also occasionally end up in a compromising position with the guy who played … read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge… Amateurs and Liars… By Joe Facinoli
What do Katy Perry, Groucho Marx, Vladimir Putin, The Clash, Pinocchio, the Hokey Pokey, and some burning pants, along with a few “highly placed” individuals in Washington,.….all have in common? Well, perhaps a “possible” conversation at The White House, from this past week, might reveal an answer to that vexing query: “Yeah,….that’s a GOOD idea!” (“Isn’t it??? ”) “John,….why would you say that??!!” “Well,…alright,…uh,….ok,...then let’s… read more.

Grumpy Side of 60… Always room for improvement, By Bob Robinson
“Oh no… he’s old!! This is really going to be a boring class.” The young lady sat down in the front row, pulled out her textbook and settled back looking around her, then at me, and evidently resigned herself to one of the worst classes she will have to endure on her fall schedule. The quote was taken directly from her course evaluation at the end of the semester; I’m guessing at how she actually reacted when she saw me 16 weeks earlier… read more.

Congressman Remembers 9/11
WASHINGTON, D.C. – This morning, Members of Congress will take part in a Remembrance Ceremony on the steps of the U.S. Capitol to mark the 12th anniversary of the September 11th attacks. Congressman John (R-West Chester) will make the following remarks, as prepared for delivery: “A reading from the Book of Isaiah: “‘The Lord is God from of old. He does not faint or grow weary. … Though young men faint and grow weary … they that… read more.

Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted… Ohio Gives Back: Nonprofits Provide More Than Aid
Ohioans have a rich tradition of giving back to their communities and those in need. This is evident by the fact that more than 60,000 nonprofit organizations operate in Ohio. With so many of these beneficial entities calling the Buckeye State home, there is no shortage of ways for each of us to get involved to help our communities and our neighbors. In fact, nonprofits in Ohio collectively raise billions of dollars for assistance and research each year. The benefit… read more.

Syria, By President Barack Obama
Good evening -- I just addressed the nation about the use of chemical weapons in Syria. Over the past two years, what began as a series of peaceful protests against the repressive regime of Bashar al-Assad has turned into a brutal civil war in Syria. Over 100,000 people have been killed. In that time, we have worked with friends and allies to provide humanitarian support for the Syrian people, to help the moderate opposition within Syria, and to shape a… read more.

Life with Levi…Rest in peace, Mickey Mouse, By Amanda Olson Editor
There has been a death in the family. Luckily, it wasn’t anyone I was emotionally attached to. Back in July, I made mention of my brand new computer mouse, which Levi decided to name Mickey Mouse. Sadly, after two short months, Mickey Mouse is no longer with us. Evidently, if you dump water on a computer mouse, it won’t work anymore. Or at least that’s what Levi and I discovered. I’ve also discovered that sippee… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…Letter to my unborn child, By Aprill Brandon
Dear My Unborn Child, So...uh...hey, I guess. How are you? I'm fine. Yup. Um...so how 'bout them Red Sox, huh? Sorry this is so awkward. Truth be told, we hardly even know each other. I mean, all I really know about you currently is that you are violently opposed to Chinese food and all you really know about me is that I eat way too much cheese. So this whole trend just seems a bit ridiculous. Oh wait, you probably have no idea what… read more.

State Rep. Jim Buchy… West-Central Ohio Playing a Major Role in Ohio’s Economic Comeback
Something is happening here in west central-Ohio and there aren’t a lot of people talking about it. Step by step, west-central Ohio is leading the way in Ohio’s comeback. It could be thanks to our strong agricultural sector, which was barely hurt by the recent economic downturn, or it could be thanks to the commitment of Honda of America in the region or any number of other reasons. Nonetheless, the economy in this region is ticking at a faster pace than… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge….. Three Card Monte….. By Joe Facinoli
Ever been to New York City, and strolled through the subways, or walked the streets surrounding Central Park? Interesting places, to say the least, with so many different and wildly varying sights, sounds, and activities going on,….day and night. One of the “standard” sights which one might find, or fall victim to, if too naïve or un-streetwise, is a deceptively innocent game of chance, which can prove alarmingly dangerous, financially tragic, and even… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Labor Day
For generations, hardworking Americans have left their homes every morning – and some at night – to earn an honest living, to provide for their loved ones, and to ensure their children have enough food, clothes, and education to thrive. Steelworkers, nurses, mechanics, teachers, and plumbers weren’t always treated with the dignity they deserve. But we know that American history is a history of struggle for working people – fighting for representation, fair… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…Dogs are from Pluto, Women are from Venus, By Aprill Brandon
There comes a time in every relationship where you begin to re-evaluate just what the two of you are getting out of the whole deal. If the good times are still outweighing the bad times. If that spark you once had is still burning. For me and my love, that time is now. To be honest, I never thought it would come to this. We've been through so much together. I had heard of other people who had gone through some of the same problems… read more.

U.S. Representative John …Replacing the President’s Sequester with Smarter Cuts & Reforms
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following column discussing the president’s sequester: “Over the past few months, I’ve received a number of letters, emails, phone calls and Facebook messages about the impact of the president’s sequester in our region. Many are from hard-working… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge…. Dr. King Would Not Have Been There….. By Joe Facinoli
Martin Luther King, Jr. was not about celebrity, nor any agenda. And he was certainly not about politics. He was about truth, and reality, and presenting these in a way that was undeniable. He was not about what went on in DC last week, 50 years after his “I have a Dream, today….” exhortations. In fact, in my humble opinion, I don’t believe he would have wanted anything to do with that group, who had gathered at the Lincoln Memorial supposedly to honor… read more.

Grumpy Side of 60… Life is Good, By Bob Robinson
“Hey Bob… Callie Z was hilarious! My mom sent it to me. Oh, and by the way, I’d like you to meet my friend…” I’ve lost track of the number of people who have commented about Callie, including my own editor, Ryan Berry… “Aw come on, Bob. She can’t be the only one who doesn’t like you.” The student who stopped me was in one of my spring Public Speaking classes at Edison. “My mom sent it to me. She didn’t know you were my teacher last spring… read more.

Commissioners Corner… Fall and maintenance issues are at hand
It is late in August, the Great Darke County Fair has just been completed, local football teams are practicing and ready for their first games, schools have already started, or about to, and all of this reminds us that fall is not far behind. As of this writing, we could really use a little rain to help the farmer’s crops, especially the soybeans, to fill out. Although, rain was needed, it was perfect weather for the fair, and we… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown…How Can My Office Help You?
Some of my office’s most critical work has nothing to do with votes cast on the Senate floor. As your senator, my most important job is serving you and helping constituents cut through red tape when dealing with the federal government. That means helping seniors access the Social Security benefits they have paid into, assisting veterans and their families in obtaining veterans benefits and military medals that they earned but never received, and helping … read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Labor Day Celebrates the Values That Make Our Country Great
Labor Day to most people marks the unofficial end to summer. Kids are back to school, football season revs up and the days keep getting shorter and shorter. Particularly here in west central Ohio, where farming and other agricultural industries make up such a large part of our economy, the end of summer is a perfect time to celebrate Labor Day. There is so much more value to working than simply earning an income. Work brings people together and instills… read more.

Trying to do the impossible, with the inadequate, By Jim Surber
Although some people believe that everyone affiliated with government is an irresponsible collector and spender of the taxpayers’ money, it is not always the case. Managing public money is a lot like managing a personal or family budget, when looking at it over a long time. There are times when your available income meets or exceeds your need, and times when it does not. It is the latter case where the similarities between government and private finances… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…First comes love, then comes (annoying, screaming) babies, By Aprill Brandon
It's karma. That's what it is. I just wish I would have realized it before now. Yes, now that I'm pregnant, my past is coming back to haunt me. A past that I'm ashamed to admit includes some rather immature and inconsiderate attitudes toward the youngest members of our society and their caretakers. For example… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Lake Facilities Authority-Moving Forward and Making Progress
For several years now, we have been monitoring Grand Lake St. Marys water quality for improvement. Although it has been a slow process with multiple approaches making marked improvements, the new conservation efforts have made the water quality better than it was three and four years ago. A long-term solution is needed and local citizens are working to design a path for that long-term plan. In the watershed, local citizens are working to reduce phosphorous… read more.

From the Other Side of The Edge…. Moments Matter... By Joe Facinoli
Often the smallest events, or chance happenings, can matter greatly in someone’s life. Even if they don’t know it at the time. It was the quarter finals of the playoffs, in the 11 and under spring baseball league. The team, which had struggled a lot throughout the year, had nonetheless put together enough wins late in the season to earn a spot in the championship run. But this game had gone much like the rest of the season: up and down, hot and cold… read more.

President Barack Obama… College Affordability
Hello, everybody -- Michelle and I know exactly how tough it can be to pay for higher education. By the time we finished paying back the loans we took out to go to college and grad school, I was on my way to being a U.S. Senator. I believe that anyone who works hard should have the same opportunities that our educations gave us. That's why, as President, I've made it a personal mission to make higher education more affordable -- and why I'm… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… But it will all be worth it, trust me, By Aprill Brandon
It was on a Thursday afternoon. Or maybe it was a Wednesday morning. Sunday night? Whatever. It doesn't matter. All the days are running together now. Even my birthday, which was spent on the couch trying not to die, much like how I've spent every other day for the past two months. Anyway, it was during yet another face-to-face conversation with Mr. Toilet that it hit me: Pregnancy sucks. Oh yeah. You read me right. All that… read more.

Life with Levi… Oh, what a night! By Amanda Olson, Editor
I am glad that Levi is basically a healthy child. Because if I had nights like last night very often, I think I’d end up in the funny farm! The reason behind all of the fun we had last night is a tooth. One little tooth. To be more specific, a molar. It’s halfway in at the moment… And it better hurry up unless is wants to feel this Mommy’s wrath! Levi has been cranky and WHINEY for the last week. And finally, on Saturday, I got… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge… Of Clowns,….Drug Dealers,…and Voting Rights…. By Joe Facinoli
Why aren’t they EMBARRASSED….???? It was a busy week for U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder. What, with granting freedom to most of the low level drug dealers and users now locked up, fielding demands that he investigate that damnable Missouri clown, who dared to wear an Obama mask, during a rodeo skit, and then sidestepping and defying (or becoming) The Supreme Court, on voting rights laws, ….he was busy, busy, busy. Busier than your… read more.

State Rep. Jim Buchy… Property Tax Changes Restores Fairness, Honesty to Ohio Taxpayers
Through talking to constituents and following various media sources across the state, I have noticed that there seems to be some confusion and questions regarding the changes in the budget affecting property taxes. One provision in the budget effectively rolled back the state’s 12.5-percent property tax exemption. Basically, the state paid the first 12.5 percent of a homeowner’s property taxes that were imposed though local levies. That exemption is no… read more.

Grumpy Side of 60… The little girl who didn’t like me, By Bob Robinson
Callie Z. was a pistol. She was in kindergarten. Bright. Sharp. Did well on her assignments… “Mr. Robinson, Callie pushed me.” “Callie, come here, please. Why did you push her?” “I wanted to get a crayon and she wouldn’t move.” “Do you think that is okay?” Callie shrugged. “She wouldn’t move,” she said finally. “What if she’d lost her balance and fell, hurting herself? Would that have been okay?” Callie just stood there, looking down. “You don’t push… read more.

Ohio: On the Road Again to Economic Recovery, By Jerry Wray
Governor John R. Kasich recently announced a Jobs and Transportation Plan that includes more than 40 major road construction projects across the state that the Ohio Department of Transportation plans to build over the next six years. These projects will improve motorist safety, reduce congestion on our highways, add capacity, and improve our state’s economy. All told, ODOT plans to spend nearly $3 billion on these projects. It is estimated… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…The first three letters in care is car, By Aprill Brandon
I call her the Boop-mobile. She's small, has a sassy red chassis and one heck of a pair of ample headlights (although she has also gone by Please Baby Girl Please in my more desperate moments and Susan for that one week in 2006 when I felt she needed a more dignified name). She's my 2004 Hyundai and for eight years, she has put up with me and my shenanigans. The countless coffee spills, the oopsie curbside hits, the… read more.

Life with Levi…On Becoming the Big Sister, By Amanda Olson Editor
Today is a very special day. 18 years ago today, on August 13, 1995 at 2:54 p.m., I became a big sister. And I remember the day like it was just yesterday. It was a Sunday. I was at my Dad’s house when my stepdad Tony called to say that they were headed to the hospital. I swear that was the longest day of my life. I honestly can’t say how long I waited, I just know it felt like FOREVER! The next time the phone rang, I jumped from … read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge….The “Smallness” of the Presidency Now…. By Joe Facinoli
Has it simply slipped away from us, ..…that time when the American Presidency gave us something to be proud of ? Do you remember when there was a certain dignity, nobility, and even “regalness” to it ? When maturity, and experience, and professionalism were such sure pre-requisites, that they were not even spoken about very much? When we could look to this elected leader, regardless of our politics, and expect him to be the one who spoke for … read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy…Medicaid Reform – Multiple Options Forward
The issue of Medicaid reform has taken over the topic of Medicaid expansion, which was hashed out in the spring. The Ohio legislature made it clear that any long-term changes to Medicaid deserve extensive deliberation and debate before moving ahead. From that discussion came knowledge of failures present in Ohio’s Medicaid program. We will continue to discuss Medicaid reform as a way to reduce our state budget and provide better services for Ohioans… read more.

Now What Do We Do? By Mike Stegall
Well, it is finally over! The months of hard work, the angry words, the kind words, all the emotional responses, are done for a while. The school levy has passed. The margin of victory was far greater than anyone imagined, so it is fairly obvious that a majority of people wanted this to happen. I for one was happy it passed. Now, after all the hype and the celebration, the cheering, the tears, and the other side feeling hollow and left out, I am reminded of what … read more.

Commissioners Corner… Parades, festivals and the Great Darke County Fair
July celebrations have come and gone, the parade season is winding down, and families are completing their vacation time. It won’t be long before football season is here, and of course, the Great Darke County Fair heralds the end of summer. Let’s enjoy what’s left of the good weather while we can. July has been a very busy month for the Commissioners. We have had all of the 4th of July parades to attend, and… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…Wondering Woman, By Aprill Brandon
Jingle bells, Batman smells, Robin laid an egg... something, something, something else, the Comic Con is here! Or, you know, whatever. I'm no poet. The point is, it's the CON! Yes, as a junior Trekkie and Star Warrior who grew up to be a card-carrying Browncoat with a dog named Buffy and a husband who makes the fellas from "Big Bang Theory" look like total comic book noobz, it truly 'tis the most magical time of the year for this gal… read more.

Life with Levi… It’s laundry time! By Amanda Olson, Editor
For some reason I still have yet to understand, my son is obsessed with laundry. Clean laundry, dirty laundry… Okay, guess there really isn’t anything other than clean or dirty laundry. His biggest problem at this point: knowing the difference between the two. He loves to help, and sometimes, he is actually helpful. He will pull clothes out of the dryer and hand them to me so I can fold them. Or he will grab dirty clothes off the floor and give them… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Setting up the tools for success in Ohio’s school systems
In west central Ohio, we have the best schools because of great teachers and administrators as well as good parents and work ethic present in our homes. Promoting these values that go hand in hand with our agricultural way of life may benefit students in other parts of the state by reducing the dropout rate and improving education in the urban areas. It will be possible to expose young people in urban Cleveland and Cincinnati to the work ethic and values found on… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge… Just Leave Me Alone about it, …Already!! By Joe Facinoli
So,…..me and the Pope. Who knew??? This week, Pope Francis announced that if gay priests felt that God had accepted them as they were, then who was he (his Popeness) to judge them?? Finally. Common Sense. From one of the least likely places on Earth, where one might expect it: The Vatican,…of all places. Now both sides can go off, and posture, and pontificate on how “enlightened” and magnificent they are, and why you should drop… read more.

Hearing… but not listening, By Mike Stegall
I had an interesting conversation with a good lady friend of mine the other day. It reminded me of how hard it is to get through to people on some subjects. This lady, who is a wonderful, smart person whom I respect, started talking about the sales tax hike the State has advanced. We talked about it a little bit, and then she said that high taxes is why Darke County has lost so many businesses in the last 3 years. SAY WHAT? I asked her what businesses and… read more.

U. S. Representative John …The House Remains Focused on Jobs
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following column: “Recently, I had an opportunity to sit down with community and business leaders in West Chester and Springfield to talk about the economy and jobs. These meetings are an opportunity for me to listen to the concerns and priorities of families and small businesses here in Ohio’s Eighth Congressional District. They also allow me the chance to give … read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…I'm pretty sure it's a demon wizard, By Aprill Brandon
You guys may remember when I wrote a few weeks ago about how I quit smoking. If you don't remember, let me quickly sum it up for you: I quit smoking. People got hurt. Property got destroyed. At one point, the National Guard was called in to shoot me down off of a skyscraper. The end. And I am happy to report that not only am I still 100 percent cigarette-free today, but the casualities list has significantly shortened thanks… read more.

Inspiring others to create positive change, By Amy Barger, Main Street Greenville Intern
Being a part of Main Street Greenville has personally brought a lot of awareness on who exactly "Amy Barger" is and what she will do next. Everything I do I do to work for something bigger than myself. I am not quite sure if I can define it in its entirety because I believe it will become more defined as I keep growing as a person. I think it can be understood best by understanding me. All I know is that I care about this world. I care about life… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge…. The “Light” Moves On….. By Joe Facinoli
The call came at 5 a.m. How fitting. It was her favorite time of the day (or so she told us). An hour when she always found the time to pack one more lunch, iron one more shirt, hang up one more load of laundry on the clothes line (inside or outside, depending on the weather, and the season), check over one more homework assignment, or write one more check, just in time to beat the late fee. It was the time when she got the coffee brewing every morning… read more.

The Grumpy Side of 60… Thanking you in advance, By Bob Robinson
Sarah is 11. She’s smart as a whip. Goes through her multiplication and division tables with ease, has a good concept of how government works, the weather cycles and, according to her teachers, is “street smart.” Give her a logic problem beyond her age and she can usually figure out how to address it. But first you have to read it to her. As smart as she is, much of her time is spent in special education because the fifth grader is at a first or second… read more.

Musings of a Senior Scribe…Of One Accord, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! I hope you are all enjoying the cooler weather. Maybe I can catch up on my spring cleaning before it turns into fall cleaning - YUK! It is again time for another school levy. Signs are everywhere - Vote Yes - Vote No. Letters are in the local papers. To whom do you listen? Who has the truth? Where could you possible find the "real deal?" Thoughts swirled in my brain. From my East Elementary School days - the Three Little Pigs story appeared. Remember... read more

Greenville Schools Levy… Questions & Answers, Set 5
It seems that you are representing the $25,000 exclusion/reduction of tax value for those past 65 or disabled. If so, I suggest this to be a misrepresentation as those folks already receive this exclusion and shall not see additional exclusions as part of an increase in tax liability in support of schools. Correct? The Homestead Exemption allows senior citizens and permanently and totally disabled Ohioans to reduce their property tax … read more.

U.S. Rep. John … Now it’s up to the Senate to Provide ObamaCare Fairness for All
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following column discussing House-passed legislation delaying ObamaCare’s mandates to give equal protection – and some basic fairness – to individuals and families: "On July 16, 35 Democrats joined Republicans in the House of Representatives in voting to delay the employer mandate in the president’s health care law. In a subsequent vote, 22 Democrats… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Tax Reforms to Alleviate Stress on Household Budgets
Tax reforms in the new operating budget are meant to help alleviate stress on our household budgets. In Ohio, we are committed to improving the jobs climate and for that reason we took a series of steps to simplify the tax code and increase transparency. As a result Ohioans are receiving more than a $2.7 billion tax reduction. The FY2014-15 state budget builds on previous successes such as eliminating the Death Tax. The new package will provide… read more.

State Representative Richard Adams… State Budget Signed into Law
In May, Ohio experienced its highest monthly job creation numbers since February 1999. Ohio was also the top job creator in the country that month, creating more than 32,000 jobs. Those were part of the more than 170,000 private sector jobs that have been created inside our borders in the last two-and-a-half years. With more people working and an economy continuing to steadily improve, there was more money coming into the state coffers at existing… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…My momma did raise a quitter, By Aprill Brandon
Quitters get a bad reputation in American society. But I've always been a bit of a rebel (I totally cut off that tag from my mattress even though it explicitly states you shouldn't cut it off under penalty of law...Ha Ha!). And so it is with great relish that I can announce that my momma did, in fact, raise a quitter. After years of failed attempts, I have officially been smoke-free for two weeks. Yes, I haven't had a cigarette in 14 days. Needless… read more.

The White House… President Obama's Vision for America, By Dan Pfeiffer
Hey everyone, I don't usually write emails like this, and we don't usually send messages like this to this list. But I just finished reading the draft of a speech the President plans to deliver on Wednesday, and I want to explain why it's one worth checking out. Eight years ago, not long after he was elected to the United States Senate, President Obama went to Knox College in his home state of Illinois where he laid out his economic vision for the country. It's… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge…. VERDICT: America Guilty….again, By Joe Facinoli
Race. The Ultimate Test for humankind. The one true and constant challenge in life, the one which overtly presents itself to all of us,….every day. And we fail every pop quiz that life springs on us. We just can’t get past it. We just can’t get beyond the fact that not everyone looks the same as us, nor acts the same, nor speaks the same language, nor plays the same video games. And we never have,…..not even close, really. We are no better now, than we… read more.

19 is a lucky number! Greenville’s ONLY opportunity to avoid losing the state rollback
By Carla Surber, Treasurer, Greenville School District - The Governor’s new law will not impact our upcoming Greenville Bond Issue. If you pass Greenville’s Bond Issue on August 6, you will still receive the 12.5 % rollback reduction. This is the district’s only opportunity to have this advantage. All new and replacement levies in Ohio, after November, 2013, will not receive this advantage. Nineteen Ohio schools, including Greenville, made… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Lake Facilities Authority- Authority for the Local Citizens
The restoration efforts at Grand Lake St. Marys continue as the federal, state, and local governments contribute to the cause. The people of the Grand Lake St. Marys have asked for more responsibility for the efforts, and legislators have responded by helping locally drafted legislation become law. The Lake Facilities Authority(LFA) provides the local government exactly what the title says, authority to help with lake restoration. The authority will be checked… read more.

Tax Payers Beware, By Don Wright
Greenville School Superintendent Fries has used a full page in the newspaper to answer some of our questions about the school bond levy. Pay close attention to his answers. What he doesn’t say is as important as what he says. Since most taxpayers can read and most people that have acquired property aren’t stupid I’ll just skip through and make a few comments. If the state condemns any school buildings it will be because they were neglected… read more.

Greenville Schools Levy…Questions & Answers, Set 4
Where is the safe room for storms and shootings in the new school? There are designated areas throughout the school that students/staff will go in the event of a storm. We will work with EMA and local safety agencies during the design process and during construction to designate safe areas. The engineers will work with district administrators, local fire and police to give security options. Security will be one of the main topics when designing… read more.

Grumpy Side of 60… The virtues of being grumpy, By Bob Robinson
“Hey Grumpy, how are you?” “I’m having a ball! How about you?” Grumpy greetings make my day. There have been a few. Some have asked why I call this column the “Grumpy Side of 60.” It goes back to being a sub at Woodland and trying to control a class of 20-plus 5- to 8-year-old students. I tried everything. Cajoling, bribery, yelling… I have a loud voice when I want to use it. In the morning it works great, but by afternoon they know I’m a pushover… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Ensuring Ohio Workers Have the Skills Needed to Fill Open Jobs
Last week, I heard from Daniel Brewer, a Navy veteran from Cincinnati who could not find a good paying job after returning from Afghanistan. Though Daniel had substantial training in the Navy, moving home to Ohio, he had trouble translating his skills into the civilian workforce. Daniel’s experience is all too common. Time and time again I’ve heard similar stories throughout Ohio: biotech firms, high-tech manufacturers, and small businesses are… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy…Budget Bill Will Continue Ohio’s Economic Improvement
During discussion on the House floor regarding the tax cuts in the state budget, a fellow state representative made a simple, but important, point. While we might not always think of it in this way, taxes and freedom share a strong link. The less money the government takes out of our pockets, the more freedom we have to spend it the way we want. His message seems especially appropriate this time of year, as we just celebrated our nation’s independence… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…Some like it not, By Aprill Brandon
I know what I'm about to say isn't going to be very popular. But hey, you know what? Abraham Lincoln wasn't universally appreciated for his views in his lifetime either. (Although, granted, in the end it didn't turn out too well for him. However, anyone wishing to assassinate me needs to get in line behind my ex-boyfriends, my ninth-grade English teacher, Kim Kardashian, those Jehovah Witnesses that came to my door last … read more.

Life with Levi… Feeling insignificant and unimportant is not an option, By Amanda Olson, Editor
As the new Editor of CNO, I’ve been reading all of the letters and columns that come in regarding the Greenville Schools Levy. And I am overjoyed to see the supportive members of the community that are willing to give local students the new facility that they need and deserve. I’ve also read the opinions of those who are opposed to giving Greenville students a new school that they can be proud of. I know what you’re probably thinking by… read more.

U.S. Representative John … Protecting All Americans From ObamaCare's Mandates
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following column discussing the president's unworkable health care law: "After months of insisting that things were ‘on track’ and ‘fabulous,’ the Obama administration and its allies have finally acknowledged what Ohio families and job creators already know: the president’s health care law is unworkable. "In delaying ObamaCare’s flawed employer mandate for one… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge… Abortion is a Choice… Not a Budget Item, By Joe Facinoli
By its nature, the complicated issue of Abortion, after all of the heated discussions, religious and righteous posturing, and hate-filled politics, really comes down to only two basic components. One is Personal,....the other Financial. The Personal element, really the only one, in many people’s hearts and minds, involves a woman’s choice, and her course of action, based on her thoughts at the time of “need”, her spirituality and religious beliefs or guidance, her… read more.

Greenville Schools Levy… Questions & Answers, Set 3: Harmon Field
Why was Harmon Field renamed? Greenville City Schools was approached over a year ago by Good Samaritan Hospital and Wayne Health Care to sponsor Greenville City Schools. Good Samaritan and Wayne Health Care will provide compensation to the district in the amount of $230,000 from 2012-2016 for advertising in athletic areas. Harmon Field was renamed, “Good Samaritan Stadium at Harmon Field” for the length of the… read more.

Smoke filled back rooms and the First Amendment, By Bob Robinson
On June 24 I went to the Lighthouse Christian Center to see what the ruckus was about and made an interesting discovery… It was about nothing that had anything to do with Darke County. The topic was fracking. Fracking is a misnomer about how we get our oil and gas out of the ground, currently along the Utica Shale. It’s actually called horizontal fracturing. Nothing new. We’d been doing vertical fracturing for 150 years; now we can do it… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…Waiting for the other shoe to drop, By Aprill Brandon
My husband generally gets home from work every day at around 7 p.m. (note the “generally” and “around”). However, by 7:03 p.m. every day, I am convinced he was mugged. Or had an aneurysm. Or got hit by a car and is lying in a ditch somewhere. Or was a victim of a sadistic serial killer named Meat Claw. Or actually finally did meet Keira Knightley, who agreed to run off with him to Aruba (which, per our informal pre-nup, is permissible… read more.

Life with Levi… A wedding and two Lambies, By Amanda Olson, Editor
Wow! What a weekend! For a number of reasons… First off, I took Levi to my friend Nikki’s wedding. I was worried about it for weeks before, hoping that Aaron would have the day off to go with us. But he didn’t. Bummer. So I decided to go ahead and try to take him by myself. Not necessarily a bad thing… Unless you take into account the fact that the wedding happened to be during Levi’s nap time. But he took an extra long nap that… read more.

U.S. Senator Rob Portman… Ohio Families, Russian Children: International Heartbreak
We’ll come back for you. That’s the promise made by five Ohio families to their children, orphans in Russia, as they said goodbye for one last time before they were supposed to bring the children home with them. But for the last six months, that sacred commitment has been put in jeopardy by forces beyond the control of these loving parents. Since the Russian government imposed a ban on the adoption of children by Americans, these families have… read more.

Dayton Business Journal… Kasich Guest Column: A budget that celebrates the freedom to succeed
Editor's Note: The following is a guest column by Ohio Gov. John Kasich about the new state budget. This week we honor the birth of our great nation and the freedoms for which generations of Americans have fought and—sometimes—given their lives. It’s a time to spend with friends and family and celebrate the liberty and opportunity that continues to make the United States a force for good in the world. As a fitting companion to Independence Day, I recently signed… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge…. Times Change… Common Sense, Does Not, By Joe Facinoli
Times, in the growth of a nation or a society, will change. Due to necessity, progress, and eventuality. But as we encounter, and then move through these different times, some things should never change. Things like Common Standards, by which we measure all our growth,….everyone’s; Common Sense, by which we all should be clearly guided, during these times of growth and change; Common Decency, by which we should all interact… read more.

Lessons from the Victorian Internet, By Jim Surber
My last writing about government electronic espionage mentioned the telegraph, which by the 1870’s was under monopolistic control by Western Union. This company’s alliance with the Associated Press and the Republican Party played a major role in picking the winner of the hotly-contested 1876 Presidential election. This story of the telegraph is fascinating. Not just for the history, but for the lessons it can provide in current debates surrounding… read more.

U.S. Congressman John … Unlocking America’s Resources is Key to Growth & Jobs
“Scrolling through the morning news a few days ago, two stories on Cincinnati’s Channel 9 caught my attention. First, the price of gas is up 14 cents over this time last year. Second, a recent study found that 27 percent of Americans have no emergency savings. “Sadly, these are just two byproducts of the president’s policies – including his efforts to block development of American energy – that are resulting in rising prices, sluggish growth, and stagnant wages… read more.

Greenville Schools Levy… Questions & Answers, Set 2
If the Levy doesn’t pass, how will the district pay for the cost of all the upgrades that need to be done at the existing buildings just to get through day-to-day problems until it does eventually pass? Do we have an estimate of the cost of all of these upgrades? Currently, the district uses the permanent IMPROVEMENT Levy that is in place and general fund dollars to get the day to day problems addressed. We do not have a cost to do all of the… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Helping Graduates Pay Down Debt and Plan for the Future
Last week, I heard from Lynsay Spratlen, a Macedonia native and Ashland University graduate who is currently working at a tech firm in Summit County. Like many recent college graduates who see most of their income going to pay off high-interest private student loans, Lynsay lives with her parents. Even though new graduates are entering into a better economic climate and better job prospects, their heavy debt burden means that fewer of them can afford… read more.

Commissioners Corner…Added budget pressure to fight crime a priority
Summertime in Darke County is always a fun time. The kids are out of school, almost every village, town or city has a festival or something going on, swimming pools and swimming spots are busy, the crops are planted and looking pretty good, and best of all the sun is shining. So far, the weather seems to be really co-operating with us, so let’s pray it continues for a few more months, anyway. Summertime… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy... Reforming Medicaid to Reduce Government Dependency
Ronald Reagan was addressing the National FFA when he said, “The ten most dangerous words in the English language are, ‘Hi, I’m from the government and I’m here to help.’ In a way, he was poking fun at the inability of government to properly handle everyday situations better handled by individuals. But the more serious implication is that we, as Americans, prefer to pull ourselves up by our bootstraps in the tough times. That’s why Medicaid … read more.

A day to honor, By George Starks
Today, we will celebrate our Day of Independence. The day a lot of people declared our freedom from England. Many people, over the years, have served and died to keep this a free nation. Even though we do not have the same freedoms we once had (in my opinion). Today many of us will celebrate in different ways. We will have cook-outs and be with friends and family. Weather permitting, the kids will play in pools and when the sun goes down a fireworks… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…Veggie Tales of Horror, By Aprill Brandon
I blame ice cream. You ever have ice cream? Of course you have. You're not dead. Or stupid. So you can probably understand where I'm coming from when I blame ice cream for my hatred of vegetables. You feed my 3-year-old mouth that magical creamy substance made from unicorn laughter and puppy dreams and then a few hours later expect me to be happy when you shove some green beans in there? Yeah. Nice try, Mom. Yes, my… read more.

Life with Levi… Welcome Back, Lambie (#1)! By Amanda Olson, Editor
I was ripped from my sound slumber Saturday morning by Aaron calling my name. Not a good sign. So I got out of bed and followed the sound of his voice to the bathroom. Levi is happily playing in the bathtub, but Daddy’s expression wasn’t so happy. Apparently Levi threw up. Yay. Leaving Daddy and Levi in the bathroom, I went out to assess the damage. It didn’t look too bad, all things considered. Until I looked next to the bookcase… read more.

Greenville Schools Levy… Questions & Answers, Set 1
If the levy fails, is it possible that the state could come in and condemn some or all of our old buildings? Repairs are more likely to be required prior to a building being condemned. However, at any time a major safety issue could cause a building to be condemned or shut down. School buildings have many ongoing inspections that must meet certain requirements. These inspections are done to maintain safety for all people using the buildings… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge…. Global Laugh-ing… By Joe Facinoli
While the earth’s climate may, or may not be warming up, either permanently or as part of a cycle, there is one very specific, and equally important thing that is most definitely changing, worldwide. And that would be the political perception of the once all-powerful United States of America. There may, in fact, be some sort of global warming going on, but for certain, there is also a non-stop global laughing taking place, as well. And the planet is laughing… read more.

Grumpy side of 60… Papau’s new earrings, By Bob Robinson
Last fall I had a tough time hearing my students. Kindergartners and first graders especially. “Mr. Rob… in… s…” “What did you say? Speak up, sweety.” “I have to… (fade out)” I had to lean down close and turn my ear toward the student. That usually worked, but not always. I didn’t really understand it. I mean when I was a kid nobody ever had any trouble hearing me. Or anyone else in my class for that matter. Have kids changed that much or… read more.

A letter to all GCSD residents, By Bob Rhoades
Over a period of time such as 100 years, lots of things happen in a town. In 1911 when the South Elementary School was constructed electricity had not yet been brought to Greenville. It was a state of the art school for its day, large enough for the enrollment of the day and some growth in the district. Forty years later, around 1950 the monstrous East building gave way to the current East School and the South and North buildings were added… read more.

Life with Levi…Levi the Chatterbox, By Amanda Olson, Editor
Way back when my sister Brittany was a baby, I remember wishing that she would she would start walking and talking. As soon as possible. Well, I learned my lesson then because after what was not quite as long of a wait as I’d thought, she started talking and wouldn’t shut up. (And she still hasn’t… Still talks a lot! Love ya Brittany!!!) Well, I knew that it was inevitable that Levi, too, would eventually start talking. And he has been for a … read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…You never forget your first time, By Aprill Brandon
This is a bit embarrassing but up until a few days ago, I was a 31-year-old virgin. Yes, I had never been officially “F”-ed. I told myself it was because I wasn’t ready. I wasn’t prepared for the way it would change my life. But the truth is, I was ready. More than ready. Hell, I had been ready since the day I moved to Boston over two years ago, all bright-eyed and innocent, ready to shed my small town girl image for a sophisticated city gal … read more.

U.S. Representative John …We are a Nation of Builders
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today the office of Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following column comprised of excerpts from ’s June 20th remarks to the National Association of Manufacturers’ 2013 Summit in Washington, DC: “When you look at where [our economy is today], we’re still not seeing real growth. A lot of this has to do with policies that are holding us back, but it isn’t just that. “In America, the people have always had… read more.

Spies like us, By Jim Surber
“I’m shocked, shocked, to find that gambling is going on in here,” declares Police Captain Renault as he orders the closing of Rick’s Nightclub in Casablanca, before replying “Oh, thank you very much,” to a croupier handing him a pile of cash saying, “Your winnings, sir.” This memorable scene is relevant to everyday life for reasons that can be as different as the movie’s watchers. I think of it as I read and hear current protests and indignation equivalent to… read more.

Greenville will do the right thing, By Bob Robinson
I was substituting in a second grade class when the storm hit. Lightning, thunder, rain coming down in sheets. A couple of the children got scared, started crying. I got them calmed down, but then two others had to go to the bathroom. Woodland, to handle overcrowding, uses modules to provide classroom space to the student population. Second grade students are in modules that don’t have bathrooms inside the units. The bathrooms are only a few feet… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge… “I am NOT Darth Vader….” By Joe Facinoli
He got elected, the first time, on the bold promise that he would bring glorious Hope to the desolate and the downtrodden, those who had all but given up; and that miraculous Change would come, to a country which desperately needed it. And, oh by the way, because he wasn’t George Bush, ….as he reminded us, again and again. So what did we get, instead? For all the bluster, and words, and promises, all we got was a remake of none other than Richard Nixon… read more.

Taxpayers can’t trust the Greenville School Board, By Don Wright
I received a letter that reminded me in detail why we can’t trust this school board. In 2009 there was an emergency levy for three years that passed. In a 5-0 vote the board agreed not to ask for a renewal. Then they dishonestly put it back on the ballot. They not only lied but changed it to ten years. The extra seven years will cost us taxpayers eleven million four hundred thousand dollars. This is approximately equal to one fourth of the total cost of the proposed… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy…Bold Proposals Moving Ohio in Right Direction
During my time in the state legislature, I have had the privilege to work with 11 state budgets. Each one was unique in its own ways and each one presented its own set of challenges. But the last two—both proposed by Governor Kasich—have probably had the most substance and included the biggest issues of any of the budgets I’ve been involved in. Of course, the one signed into law in 2011 effectively closed an $8 billion budget gap, which was desperately needed if… read more.

The Grumpy Side of 60…They made me proud, By Bob Robinson
“Take a look around you, son. We all fought in World War II. Now… how in the (blank) do you think we ever managed to win that war?” I’m not going to swear to those exact words. I was sitting in a bus full of veterans. I didn’t take notes, but I knew I had to share this veteran’s comment. Then… “Be careful what you say, folks. We have a reporter onboard!” More laughter. These are fantastic people. Quality people. They are the American Legion Honor Guard… read more.

Representative Richard Adams…House Continues to Commemorate Fallen Soldiers
Honoring past and present members of our armed forces has continually been a high priority in the House of Representatives. Recently, we passed House Concurrent Resolution 15, which I co-sponsored, recognizing the Fortieth Anniversary of Operation Homecoming during the Vietnam War. On May 21st, the House presented the Ohio Military Medal of Distinction to families of fallen soldiers. Sixteen men were remembered at the ceremony… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…The 32 Things I've Learned in 32 Years, By Aprill Brandon
Well, despite my attempts to thwart it once again, my birthday is right around the corner. And so in honor of this very important day that only I and my mother really care about, I've decided to impart some of the wisdom I've gained over the years. Here are the 32 things I've learned in my 32 years on Earth: 1. The book is always better than the movie. 2. Everything tastes better with bacon. Everything. 3. It's not drinking alone if you're on the phone… read more.

House Representative John …Why is the White House Still Stonewalling Delphi Retirees?
WASHINGTON, D.C. – "The IRS remains under fire today for singling out conservative groups and the president’s political opponents, and rightly so. Americans should never be targeted by their government for partisan purposes. "The Obama administration was quick to suggest this was the work of two 'rogue agents' in the Cincinnati office, but we now know the harassment of conservative donors began in Washington. Many other questions, like 'how did… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge…. Border Security vs. Welfare Checks…. By Joe Facinoli
If we are going to make our Borders secure, ….then we will first need to end all Welfare Checks, and other government handouts, or else the whole thing just won’t work. What??? That’s right, ….and the reasons why are probably not what you’re thinking. Sometimes, two completely disparate things, or concepts, can come together in a way which initially defies all logic, but once examined, absolutely belong in the same place and time where they have found… read more.

Darke County Commissioner… Perception vs. Reality, By Mike Stegall
I was given the opportunity on Tuesday night, June 11th, to get a tour of the new Hospice facility at Wayne Healthcare. This is a fantastic addition to Darke County, and is a much needed facility that will make things a lot easier for the families that need the use of the State of the Heart services. The person who will run the facility, Heather Wogoman, gave me the tour, and you could see the pride she has in this facility. Pam Bowman has done an… read more.

An exercise in thinking, or futility? By Jim Surber
While reading another community’s newspaper online, I was impressed by one reader’s comment to an opinion writer. The gist of his statement was that the constant slamming of specific political ideology or people turns him off, as he considers himself to be a moderate. Good for him. There is a lot more sense near the middle than on either side (my opinion). His comment was thought-provoking, and my first impression is that ideologies of all forms, whether… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… May showers brings Desperatember, By Aprill Brandon
It's almost summer, people. And I think we all know what that means: Sneaking out the back window every time you leave the house in order to avoid your neighbors, who are none-too-happy with your knee-high grass that you're too lazy to mow. But summer also means family vacation time. And just like millions of other Americans, yours truly is planning on battling all those other Americans for a spot on the overcrowded "open" road and the… read more.

U.S. Representative John … House Student Loan Fix Will Strengthen the Economy
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following column discussing the House-passed Smarter Solutions for Students Act: “While pitching its ‘stimulus’ in 2009, the Obama administration predicted it could bring unemployment down to roughly five percent by May of 2013. Today, wages are stagnant, millions of Americans remain out of work, and unemployment remains far higher than promised. “Some… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy…Lake Facilities Authority- A Structure of Local Decision Making
For the past three years, the state of Ohio and local citizens of the Grand Lake St. Marys region have been working tirelessly to improve the condition of the lake and watershed. To-date, many measures have been taken, both by the state and federal governments and the people in the impacted areas of the lake and watershed. The state government is committed to restoring the lake and improving the watershed. It is no accident that Governor… read more.

Life with Levi…He did it for the nim-nims, By Amanda Olson, Editor
It’s potty time. A while back, Aaron (Daddy) and I decided that we would go ahead and get Levi a potty chair, just in case the mood to potty train struck our little boy. And it has. And it still is. Nearly every twenty minutes is seems. At first, he started out slowly. He wanted to sit on his potty chair every now and again, with his pants still on. Then he slowly progressed to wanting to sit on it, sans pants. Now he is doing his business … read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge… Big Brother’s Indignation…. By Joe Facinoli
1984 came and went twenty nine years ago. George Orwell died sixty three years ago. But “Big Brother” is alive and well. He’s not some futuristic concept anymore. He’s not down the road, on the way, nor even just around the corner. He’s here, and he’s sitting at your table, and he’s already eaten your lunch, and wanting to know what’s for dinner. And He’s pissed. He can’t believe that a bunch of totally unappreciative, disrespectful inferiors are questioning Him… read more.

The Grumpy Side of 60… The time of my life, By Bob Robinson
If I were having any more fun there would be two of me. Not sure I understand exactly what that means but I’ve heard it often enough by people having a good time, so I guess it fits. I was on assignment for the Early Bird when I attended Greenville High School’s Senior Awards Program, Pursue Excellence. More than 40 members of the Class of 2013 hit the steps – some several times – to go on stage for recognition and a scholarship award for their… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City…This one is dedicated to all of you, By Aprill Brandon
Hey, you know how when you have really, really good news and you want to tell everyone you know about it? For that matter, everyone you don't know? In fact, you want to practically shout it in their faces because you're so excited? Because it's just the best news ever? A dream come true? But then you're not quite sure how to do that without looking like you're a bragging stuck-up snob? So instead you just sort of downplay the whole … read more.

Life with Levi… Levi and his Party Wagon, By Amanda Olson, Editor
Even though it was a few weeks ago now, I still feel like Levi’s second birthday party is worth a mention. In comparison to his first, it was laid back and simple. For his first birthday, I rented out the fellowship hall of the Ansonia United Methodist Church, made elaborate invitations, and Aunt Beej made a homemade 3D duck cake, just for him. This time around, we had the party at our house, I bought the invitations and decorations… read more.

Rep. Jim Buchy… Balancing Ohio’s Education Dollars by Introducing Values to the Classroom
In west central Ohio, values play an important role in our lives. On Sundays we go to church, Monday through Saturday we go to work, and our children witness the values we have in our homes, and make no mistake they carry those values for the remainder of life. Values is part of what makes educating our children in west central Ohio less expensive compared to urban school districts. On the farm, children learn about hard work… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge… “…Let your Conscience Approve your Conduct…”
(Thomas Paine Nails Obama) - By Joe Facinoli - There are times, when we feel particularly discouraged with the ways of the current world, that we just need a little help. We watch, in disbelief, with shaking heads and mouths agape. We listen, forlornly, with growing despair. And we wait, for our tormenting “usual suspects” to give us even the smallest break, …..or just a crumb or two. But we always seem to go home disappointed, if not hungry. During these… read more.

Darke County Park District Board of Commissioners Pass Resolution
By Park District Director Roger M. Van Frank - On March 13, 2013 the Darke County Park District Board of Commissioners passed a resolution stating the necessity to request a 1⁄2 mill replacement levy be placed on the November 5, 2013 general election ballot for the purposes of (a) maintaining, upgrading, improving, and/or expanding the Darke County Park District’s parks for conserving their natural resources and to benefit the general public… read more.

Commissioners Corner… Parade and festival season begins
May has been a very interesting month. It started out a lot like April, wet and cool, and now it is warm and humid, and setting up for bad weather. The good news is the farmers have had a chance to get the planting done, and it is finally feeling like summer. Summer always makes people feel better, and with the sunshine and warmth, it is a good time to complete those projects we thought about last winter. Here in… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… The Credit Card Twilight Zone, By Aprill Brandon
By reading this, you’re traveling through another dimension. A dimension, not only of sight and sound, but of the contents of your wallet. A journey into a heinous land whose boundaries are only those of your credit limit. Next stop-the Credit Card Zone. The place is here. The time? Now. Street scene: Summer. A woman is on the sidewalk, pacing back and forth as she talks on her cell phone. Age: 31. Occupation: Hack writer who steals… read more.

Life with Levi… My first favorite baby, By Amanda Olson, Editor
If I said Levi wasn’t my favorite baby in the whole world, I’d be a bad mom. But there was a time, long before Levi, that I had a different favorite baby. And that’s my baby sister, Brittany Jo Ulman. You’ve heard about Brittany before but probably know her as Levi’s Aunt Beej or Aunt Beejy. And from the things I’ve written, you can also probably tell that she’s no longer a baby. Far from it, actually. This past weekend I had the immense pleasure of… read more.

Strong Schools, Strong Community… Survey Results for the Upcoming Bond Issue
By Doug Fries, Superintendent - Recently the Greenville School District conducted a survey about the upcoming August 6th bond issue to construct a new K-8 school building facility and renovating the high school. The survey was communicated through various news media outlets and school district evening events. Here are the results of the community members who participated in the survey. 761people took the survey in which 91.8% were… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge…It’s Time…..Flat Tax, Term Limits, Amnesty, End Welfare…. By Joe Facinoli
Times have changed, so it’s about time that we dealt with it. The time for making everything just oh so perfect, for every, single, body,…..has passed. We need to go back to the start, before we can go on to the future. Re-set, rewind, re-boot, do over, do not pass “Go” this time. Do it again, similarly, but different. Change it, by restoring it. Return… read more.

U.S. Representative John … Americans Deserve Answers & Accountability
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following column: “Americans need common-sense solutions to help create jobs, and they need accountability from their government. In the House of Representatives, we’re working to deliver both. “With millions of Americans still struggling to find work, our top priority is jobs, and putting in place policies that create sustained economic growth and job creation. We cannot… read more.

Grumpy Side of 60… Back in the saddle again, By Bob Robinson
(Note: The Grumpy Side of 60 is a bi-weekly column for The Early Bird. It is reprinted here by permission and will contain occasional comments published in previous CNO columns. The author can assure you, however, that he offers something new for those interested in spending a couple minutes on it). “I love working with old people,” a young lady told me recently. “That’s my career goal, to take care of old people.” “You mean like me?”… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… When Nature Attacks, Part 2, By Aprill Brandon
Being a newspaper columnist is a huge privilege. Not only that, it's a huge privilege that comes with a whole lot of responsibility. Like Spiderman-level of responsibility. And those of us lucky enough to get this public mouthpiece gig have to use it wisely to shed light on important issues. Which is why I'd like to take this opportunity to continue my saga of the bumblebee and the wasp who won't let me hang out on my back porch… read more.

Life with Levi… Levi’s big day, By Amanda Olson, Editor
It’s official… My baby is a two-year-old. And Mom-Mom and Daddy made sure that his birthday was special. Before Levi was born, Aaron and I made the decision that no matter what, we would always spend Levi’s birthday together and do things as a family. Last year, we took Levi to the park. This year we decided to take him to the Newport Aquarium since he loves our aquarium and he gets a kick out of looking at the fish at Wal-Mart… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge…Is Anyone Wearing Big Boy Pants? By Joe Facinoli
“….a government OF the Grownups,….BY the Grownups,….and FOR the Grownups…..” I’m pretty sure that’s what Mr. Lincoln actually meant, at Gettysburg, in 1863. But how long has it been since we’ve had that, going on? Ever?? Maybe Abe was the last one. Or Truman. Maybe Reagan. Responsibility, accountability, mature decision making, understanding the rubrics and mechanics of the process, providing clear direction, knowing the consequences of and… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… A School Funding Plan that is Fair to Rural Schools
The Ohio House of Representatives made some significant changes to the governor’s original school funding plan, which in many ways will benefit the schools in the 84th House District. While I commend the governor for his ideas and leadership, the original version was not as friendly as it could have been—or should have been—to area schools. But that is why the legislative procedure is so important. Discussion with… read more.

OSU Extension, Darke County … Tips to get the most out of pesticides, By Sam Custer
This is the time of the year you will get busy with spraying. Just take a moment to review some common sense ideas to get the most out of those expensive pesticides you will be spraying. Achieving satisfactory results from pesticides depends on five major factors: a) positive identification of the pest, b) choosing the least persistent and lowest toxicity pesticide that will work, c) selecting the right equipment, particularly… read more.

Impeach Obama? By Bob Robinson
Well, the media’s at it again. Just when I thought they were finally beginning to take Obama to task, they are lauding him for firing IRS Acting Commissioner Steven Miller when he would have been out of the office in two weeks anyway. Under the law as I understand it, Miller had to be appointed Commissioner, or removed by June 1 and a new acting commissioner appointed. It was all over CBS News Thursday… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… When nature attacks, By Aprill Brandon
I've lived in a variety of places. The mid-West, South Texas, Boston. And each place has its own unique set of pros and cons. For example, the Ohio countryside where I grew up has some of the most spectacular sunsets on the the planet. On the downside, every single road in that state is currently under construction and will continue to be under construction until the end of the world (and even then the roaches that survive will still have to deal… read more.

Life with Levi… My second Mom-Mom’s Day, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson, Editor
For me, Mother’s Day has always taken a long time to get here. Literally. My first Mother’s Day came after waiting what seemed like forever. Since Levi was born at 11:09 a.m. the day AFTER Mother’s Day in 2011, I literally had to wait a full year to get my first Mother’s Day. And since I went into labor at 12:03 a.m., I couldn’t even claim that he was my Mother’s Day gift, just a little late. No, leave it to my son to be stubborn… read more.

U.S. Representative John … Building a Stronger Economy for New Graduates
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following column: “Earlier this month President Obama delivered the commencement address at Ohio State University. It was a fine speech, and I join the president in congratulating the Class of 2013. “But while the president used his address to highlight the noble aspects of service and citizenship, he missed a chance to focus on the opportunities our government… read more.

U.S. Representative John …Carney Claims on Changing Benghazi Talking Points at Odds With the Facts
May 8, 2013–It’s well documented that in the days and weeks following the attack on the American consulate in Benghazi on September 11, 2012, the Obama administration conveyed to the American people a wholly inaccurate account of the events. The talking points used by senior administration officials, including U.N… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge….The “Fog of War”….? By Joe Facinol
How stupid do they think we are??? On how many levels? Truth,…..or Spin?? Do the “Right Thing”,…..or get re-elected? And why do those two have to be mutually exclusive?? Defend the Country, its honor, and the people who were willing to give their lives for it,…..or, go for a bump in the polls, with misdirection and falsehoods, made of whole cloth? A “Faustian” deal, with Satan his ownself, to secure a bogus legacy and their jobs, on our dole for another four year… read more.

Vote YES for Strong Schools Strong Community… You Become Your Choices - Make Good Ones!
By Doug Fries, Superintendent - As a young man growing up I recall my parents instilling in me a phrase I have never forgotten. That phrase was "You become your choices so make good ones." This is a phrase I have used to guide my own personal life and career as an educator. Of course, making the best choices often involves taking the hand you were dealt, identifying the alternatives, evaluating the options and doing what makes the most sense… read more.

The Greenville Levy… It’s really about the kids, By Bob Robinson
“Why won’t Greenville support us?” Two sharp, talented Greenville High School students asked that question a few years back… it was after voters had defeated an earlier attempt to approve a new school facility. I didn’t have an answer for them. I’d heard “reasons.” They’ve been discussed ad-nauseam. The question these two seniors asked has haunted me over the years. Not one of the “reasons” was about the kids, but how to make them… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… 10 Reasons Why Whatever You Got Your Mom For Mother's Day Isn't Good Enough, By Aprill Brandon
1. You puked on her as a baby. Repeatedly. And I guarantee that at least once, she managed to catch your vomit in her bare hands when you got sick in public. 2. That gerbil/bunny/kitty/puppy/fish/hamster/bird/ferret you just couldn't LIVE without? She's the reason it didn't die within three days. 3. No matter how hard Dad or anybody… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… Diary of a Wimpy Adult, By Aprill Brandon
Pssst...kids...hey...PSSST...kiiiiiiids... Wanna know a secret? About being a grown-up? You do! Well... us adults? We're really just big kids with bank accounts. (Some with...ahem...smaller bank accounts than others). I know! I was as shocked as you are to learn this. As I got older, I kept waiting to finally, officially feel like an adult. But lo and behold, the years kept passing by... 18... 22... 26... 29... 29 again... the second anniversary of turning… read more.

State Representative Richard Adams… Performance Audit Bill Identifies State Spending Reductions
A bill passed during the previous General Assembly is responsible for revealing huge savings for Ohio this year. The legislation was a joint effort between the House and Senate, and ultimately, Senate Bill 4 became law. It requires performance audits of most state agencies, and was passed in April 2011. The goal of this legislation was to make spending by the state more resourceful and accountable by conducting performance audits. This year… read more.

Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted… Graduating Seniors Equal First Time Voters
One of the most rewarding aspects of being Secretary of State is traveling around Ohio to meet with high school students as part of my Grads Vote program. Through Grads Vote, we provide high school seniors with information about registering to vote for the first time and work to instill in them the importance of being active participants in our democracy. This year, the Grads Vote program holds special meaning for me as my son Alex, is turning… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy…Expanding Budget Options for Local Governments
In an effort to assist local governments and school districts, the state legislature last year passed a bill that established an innovative program called STAR Plus. The program gave Ohio’s local governments and school districts the ability to deposit funds into FDIC-approved banks in Ohio, which, after earning interest, would generate more money in the future. The money that would be deposited into banks comes from reserve funds as a way to provide public… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge….Who Do You Trust? By Joe Facinoli
Who would you trust with your Rights? Who would you trust with your individual liberties, and your Rights?? Who would you trust with your Rights, your individual liberties, and with approval over all the personal choices you make in your everyday life??? If you were given such a option, just who would you allow to hold power over your daily actions, movements, and decisions? And would it be anyone ?? Would you choose a group of men who had just… read more

U.S. Representative John ....Leading by Example, Creating a Better Environment for Jobs
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following column: “Three years ago I and my fellow House Republicans made a pledge to rein in government spending, starting with Congress’ own budget. “From the very first vote of our new majority in the House, we’ve worked to keep that promise. Currently we’re on track to save taxpayers more than $400 million by the end of the fiscal year. “At a time when… read more.

CO2 sequestration group reorganizes... Western Ohio Fracking Awareness Coalition, By Anne Vehre
In 2009, the Citizens Against CO2 Sequestration organized to stop a carbon dioxide sequestration project proposed for Greenville’s Industrial Park. Soon that group grew to encompass thousands of citizens throughout the county who were willing to stand up and speak out for their rights. It was because of their numbers that the project was stopped - - a project which not only threatened the lives and livelihoods of many Darke County residents but also the area’s soil and sole-source aquifer in one of … read more.

To enroll or not to enroll: that is the question, By Donna Kemp, Premier Senior Insurance
Enrolling in Medicare Part B if you are age 65 or older, still working (or spouse is still working) and have insurance coverage from that job. First things first, you should know that your Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before your 65th birthday and ends three months after your 65th birthday. Then you need to consider if you or your spouse will continue to keep working after this time and if either will be receiving health insurance from that current… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City... All I want to do is sit down, By Aprill Brandon
I remember once hearing a teacher say something along the lines of "an object in motion tends to stay in motion and an object at rest tends to stay at rest, especially if that object is a person sitting in a coffeeshop and you want their seat." Or something like that. I don't know. I was too busy sending professional-grade orgami-esque folded notes to my best friend about very important topics, such as what fast food restaurant parking lot we were… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Voting for a Balanced Budget
The U.S. National Debt is now over $16.8 trillion, and our children and grandchildren are each in debt over $53,000. We owe China too much money, and that is something I think could be agreed upon by both sides. In the Ohio House of Representatives, we passed a balanced budget with bi-partisan support. It seems that Uncle Sam is always looking for ways to influence state government and all too often his preferred method is by way of cash with strings… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Connecting Ohio Consumers with Ohio Producers
Buy local, eat local? - Despite the fact that agriculture and food is Ohio’s largest industry, too many Ohio consumers struggle to access fresh, affordable food and too many Ohio farmers need help selling their products locally. Time and time again, I’ve heard the same message from farmers across the state: connecting Ohio farmers with Ohio consumers just makes sense. Yet, during my most recent “Grown-in-Ohio” tour, I heard from many people about… read more.

Life with Levi… Lambie’s bad luck, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson, Assistant Editor
It happened. The one thing that Mommy and Daddy had been dreading. Levi puked on Lambie. The most depressing thing was that Mommy was just getting ready to put Lambie into the Lamb Protection Program and relocate him/her/it to a safer location (like Mommy and Daddy’s closet). But alas, Mommy was not quick enough. It all started Friday evening when Mommy and Levi both started to show symptoms of a cold. And when I say cold… read more.

Commissioners Corner… Budget time again, courthouse remodeling almost complete
April has certainly lived up to the phrase, “April showers” this year. April has continued to hold onto wintery weather, along with ample amounts of rain for the month. Although, the rain has been appreciated, it has delayed our farmers from doing work in the fields. We need a good week for things to dry out, along with warmer temperatures, for our agri- business people to start their heavy work for the year… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge…The “Cry Baby”-in-Chief, By Joe Facinoli
So,….he finally lost one. But I guess that 158 to one, just ain’t quite good enough for our President, now is it? Of the people, by the people, and for the people,….eh?? Not so fast there “Constitution Lips”, that’s only if it’s HIS way, thank you very much. Yeah, the Prez lost a big one last week, and man, is he ever a poor loser!! You’d have thought that someone had gone and cut up all his favorite blue ties, bent all his Calloway golf clubs in half, and made… read more.

GAO says ‘Thumbs Up’… The F-35 fighter jet – Protecting American freedom and Ohio jobs
By Harry Prestanski - A recent report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), an independent, non-partisan arm of Congress, held good news for the American servicemen and women tasked with protecting our freedom in hostile skies. The new F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, the most advanced jet fighter the world has ever seen, is on track and making exceptional progress toward the day when all branches of the U.S. military can feature this cutting-edge… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown…Equal Pay for Equal Work
As parents, we all want our daughters to have the same opportunities as our sons. As a father of two girls, I'm tired of seeing Ohio women lose $16 billion in income each year because they still don't earn equal pay for an equal day's work. Ohioans work hard and hard work deserves fair pay, regardless of gender. Yet, according to a new report from the National Partnership for Women & Families, Ohio women who are employed full time are paid just 77… read more.

Commentary…An Amazing Night, By Sharon Hopper
April 23, 2013–I went to a concert last night presented by the Tabernacle Christian Center featuring Brad Lazadda. I happened to read in the paper that this man was going to do a concert and normally I do not really pay much attention to most of the gospel concerts at churches. But this one got my attention when the article said that he had sung in 28 countries, and performed in all 50 states. So I marked my calendar and told my husband we were going… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… Spring Cleaning for Lazy Dummies, By Aprill Brandon
Guys. Guys. GUYS. Spring officially arrived this week. And not that manic-depressive spring we've been having that's been passive-aggressively toying with our emotions because it wasn't hugged enough as a child by Father Winter. No, I'm talking about happily hopped up on pills and booze spring. Or at least it has in my neck of the woods. Sunny, breezy, mid-60's perfect spring. For the first time in SIX MONTHS I was able to open… read more.

Life with Levi… Stay little, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson, Assistant Editor
To most, last Tuesday, April 16th was just another day. And to me, it really didn’t hold much significance at first glance. But once I stopped for a minute and thought about it, it finally hit me. Last Tuesday, April 16th was exactly one month before Levi’s second birthday. I know, I’m probably being overly dramatic. But for a new (or newer) Mommy like me, it was a big deal! Levi has only celebrated one birthday so far, so it’s not exactly a… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Cutting Taxes for Ohioans—Long Overdue
In 1983, shortly after I started my first term in the Ohio House of Representatives, Governor Dick Celeste proposed a biennial budget that made an income tax hike permanent and increased government spending. At that time the legislature was made up of a majority of Democrats in the House and in the Senate who went along with Governor Celeste’s tax increase. As a result Ohio’s economy has struggled since and many young people have followed a trail… read more.

Apparently, big government isn’t always bad, By Jim Surber
When some things leave you scratching your head, you can usually learn from them. One of our nation’s largest continuing debates has been whether government involvement in business is good or bad. At the risk of oversimplification, one side professes to limit government’s role for the benefit of the people, while the other side maintains that the same objective is accomplished with more government involvement. An event of the… read more.

U.S. Congressman John ...Carrying on in the American Spirit
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following column: “With the tragedies in Boston and West, Texas, that took the lives of a number of our fellow Americans, the week of April 14th was a difficult time for the country. My heart goes out to the victims. Thankfully, the Cincinnati Enquirer reports that no runners or spectators from the Tri-State area were harmed in Boston. “Meanwhile, in the nation’s capital… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge…The End of Innocence, By Joe Facinoli
When did the Innocence end? Was it at the finish line in Boston? September 11, 2001? Earlier? When??? Was there one, single event or time, when the innocence of this country simply disappeared? Or did it gradually drift away from us, under the weight of too many gut wrenching shocks, and mind numbing tragedies, for us to endure? Did it happen on November 22, 1963? On that sunswept street in Dallas, when the cheering stopped, ….so suddenly? Or… read more.

The President's Remarks...Preventing Gun Violence
A few months ago, in response to too many tragedies -- including the shootings of a United States Congresswoman, Gabby Giffords, who's here today, and the murder of 20 innocent schoolchildren and their teachers -- this country took up the cause of protecting more of our people from gun violence. Families that know unspeakable grief summoned the courage to petition their elected leaders -- not just to honor the memory of their children, but to protect… read more.

U.S. Congressman John … A Fairer, Simpler Tax Code will Create Jobs
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following column discussing comprehensive tax reform: “Every morning, one of the first things I do is check Facebook on my iPad to see what people are posting. One graphic I noticed recently shows a woman sitting at a computer asking ‘I wonder if I can claim Uncle Sam as a dependent on my tax return this year?’ “There’s no question that Americans continue… read more.

Life with Levi… He said yes! By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson, Assistant Editor
The wait is finally over. Levi said yes! He says it quite often, too. And not always when he means it. It all started a couple weeks ago. Everything was no, no, no, no, no. Then, one morning, he woke up and just started saying yes. No rhyme or reason, just yes. So finally, when I ask him if he’s hungry, he says yes. If I ask him if he wants water or a snack, he says yes. And if I ask him if he’s ready to go night-night, he still says no. But it’s a step in… read more.

Ohio Republican Party...Greetings!
I want to give you a special update about an initiative underway at the Ohio Republican Party to expand our grassroots organization through a new Coalitions Program.From elections for the White House to Courthouse voters share their specific interests about important issues that unite us. These key issues drive support for our Republican candidates. And every election cycle both national and state campaigns spend precious time and resources hastily recreating grassroots outreach programs that... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy...How the Proposed Budget Changes in the Legislative Process
In my time as a legislator, I have never voted for a budget identical to the introduced version In the legislature, it is our job to scrutinize bills and make considerations on the impact they will have on the lives of Ohioans. Changing those bills is a normal process that generally is guided by an attempt to gain broad support for legislation. This is no different for the biennial budget, which can change as many as six times from the introduced version before becoming law.… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge….It’s John Kennedy’s Fault, By Joe Facinoli
"......Don't let it be forgot, that once there was a spot, for one brief shining moment, known as............Camelot." Who could ever forget it,.....or him? If you were alive then,......you will remember. Always. Camelot. That smile. That charisma and persona. That accent. That hair. The sense of humor. Those bright and twinkling eyes. That wit, so quick, so direct, so on point. Hyannis Port. The "Compound". Touch football by the Cape. The endless family of… read more.

Did God make you? By Bob Robinson
It is a little after 2:30 and I’m leaving Greenville Junior High or South, or 15 minutes later and I’m carefully leaving the high school amongst what seems like hundreds of cars trying to fit through two exits from the high school parking lot. Or it could be an hour later and I’m getting ready to leave Woodland or East. I head to my next “job” as Secretary for Greenville Eagles 2177. On a full sub day, it is usually just a quick stop to drop off mail, get… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown…Providing Ohio Workers with a Fair Wage
With too many Ohioans working harder than ever and barely getting by, it’s well past time to raise the minimum wage in our country. Recently, I visited four Ohio businesses that are supportive of an increase in the federal minimum wage. These businesses and their owners know that treating their employees right isn’t just good for them, it’s good for business. President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Fair Labor Standards Act into law 75 years ago. This … read more.

Darke County Commissioner Mike Stegall… Hometown Opportunity
On Sunday April 7th, I was invited to the Marion Community Development Organizations annual meeting held in Maria Stein at the American Legion. This event was well attended, and two of the Mercer County Commissioners attended as well. After the meal was served, the guest speaker was Jared Ebbing, the Mercer County Economic Development Director. As a quick aside, I think that Darke and Mercer County have two of the best Economic… read more.

Ohio Republican Chairman Bob Bennett Update
Greetings! While Democrats in Washington are pushing for a $1-Trillion tax increase and an unbalanced budget, the March jobs report was another reminder that the Democrats have no plan for jobs. An analysis by the Dayton Daily News found that Ohio's personal income rose at one of the fastest rates in the nation last year. Perhaps this should be another lesson for Ohio Democrats to stop opposing the Republican reforms and growth friendly policies that are making Ohio a better place for families to... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… If you give a wife a mouse... By Aprill Brandon
For the past nine years, ever since I rescued my dog Buffy, I've been in engaged in a never-ending battle with his fur. In fact, I have suspicions that the fur is now asexually reproducing and has become self-aware, which has lead to rogue hair armies that are slowly taking over my house in an Alexander-the-Great-esque manner. But now, the battle has just been taken to the next level. I'm not quite sure how it managed it, but somehow… read more.

U.S. Senator Rob Portman… Weekly Column: Our Right to Bear Arms
The United States Senate is likely to take up gun control legislation later this month in response to the tragic school shooting in Newtown, Connecticut. Unfortunately, the majority of the proposals that have surfaced would do nothing to prevent these types of horrific acts of violence from happening in the future. They would, however, infringe on Second Amendment rights guaranteed by the Constitution. I am a gun owner and avid hunter. Whether for… read more.

U.S. Representative John ...Policies Making it Harder for Americans to Find Work
WASHINGTON, D.C. – "After a long delay, the White House has announced that President Obama will finally release his budget on April 10. So far the preview we’re getting is not good. "With millions of American families struggling in this weak economy, I had hoped that President Obama would use this opportunity -- like President Clinton did -- to work across the aisle and balance the budget. Sadly, media reports indicate the president’s budget will not… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge…A Tale of Two Immigrants, By Joe Facinoli
My Grandfather Francesco came through Ellis Island in 1892, with his three younger brothers, on his way to the “New World” from his beloved Italy. He never went back, nor ever had a reason to. Having endured the long and arduous Atlantic crossing, on a less than palatial vessel, he was then faced with the interminably long lines and endless inspection stations at this famous Port of Entry. Passing all the medical and physical tests, and having all his… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy...Turnpike Bonding Promises a Bright Future in Ohio
In a state like Ohio, where snow, ice and salt over time cause damage to roadways, it is especially important that we try to stay on top of our infrastructure needs. Governor Kasich recently signed into law a bill that puts in place a plan to fund road projects in Ohio.House Bill 51 lays out Ohio’s transportation budget for the coming two years. A big part of the bill involves using toll revenues collected from the Ohio Turnpike to fund future infrastructure projects. The state will use… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… A writer by any other name, By Aprill Brandon
When I was in college, I once got into a fight with a boyfriend because I said if we ever got married, I was keeping my maiden name. To him, apparently this statement meant I was some sort of scary nutjob closeted hippie feminist that ate pieces of the Constitution for breakfast. But my reasoning was much more simple. My decision was merely motivated by the fact that I'm the last one in my large extended family that still has my biological… read more.

Life with Levi… A not-so-hoppy Easter, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson, Assistant Editor
All of last week, I was envisioning an Easter day filled with family, laughter and lots of memories to hold on to until next year. But unfortunately, all I got was a sick husband, a sick baby and a migraine that just wouldn’t quit. So instead of heading to my Aunt Carolyn’s for lunch, then my mother-in-law’s for an awesome Easter egg hunt, we all stayed home in our sick little bubble so as not to infect all of the healthy people that we love… read more.

Commissioners Corner… Economy Kicking Along at Good Pace
As this is written, Darke County has been officially in Spring for 5 days. Right now, there is 7 inches of snow on the ground, and still falling! Hopefully, this is old man winter’s last gasp, and soon it will warm up and we can all enjoy the outdoors again. This has not been a particularly hard winter in the County, but I am sure all of us are ready for a steady dose of sunshine. This month has been a mix once… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy...Freedom to Make Our Own Healthcare Decisions
When President Obama forced government run healthcare through Congress he started a multiple year process of steadily increasing the size of government and increasing government spending. In west central Ohio, there is a consensus that Obamacare is bad for our households and bad for this country. Over the course of the past two years, I have joined the fight a number of times to put a fork in President Obama’s plan. Every step of the way I have maintained… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge...Arrogance and Ignorance, Both Make Bad Law, By Joe Facinoli
Marriage does not need to be defended. It is ingrained within the human spirit, in our hearts, and deep inside our souls.
Marriage doesn’t need to be justified by law, although every state in the U.S. has claimed that authority. It doesn’t need religion, either, even though every organized church will claim it as their God given “right” to bestow. And every high book of scripture, in every major faith, carefully lists detailed instructions, requirements, and rubrics, as to how… read more.

Grumpy Old Men, By Bob Robinson
Probably one of the most rejuvenating things a 68-year-old can do is try to manage and teach a class of 20-plus 5, 6 or 7-year-olds. They put new life into you… take you back more than six decades. Were we ever like that? I’ve had that privilege. I’ve taught spelling and reading, math, science and history; even music and dance (no comments please). All to kindergartners, first graders and second graders. Come to think of it, third through sixth graders… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Speeding up Home Sales
One sure way to reduce the deficit is to strengthen the economy—so more Americans have good-paying jobs and can support themselves and their families rather than relying upon the safety net to make ends meet. We have grown our way out of past recessions through a strong manufacturing sector and a robust housing market. But when empty homes are scattered from Cleveland Heights to Kennedy Heights, we know that the housing market still has… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… Liar, Liar, Bigger Pants Than You'd Like On Fire, By Aprill Brandon
Now that it's getting warmer (and then colder...and then warmer again...and then snowing...and then slightly warmer again before a cold front comes in around 3 p.m. and makes it hail), all our collective thoughts are slowly turning toward spring and summer. And as such, all the things we'll finally be able to do again now that winter is over (like the ability to go outside without looking like the little brother from "A Christmas Story")… read more.

Life with Levi… Levi’s little lamb, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson, Assistant Editor
As many of you may remember, I wrote a column about the Great Lambie Swap of 2012. I still get asked about how the new Lambie is getting along, so I figured that I’d fill you in. Levi still has no idea that Lambie was even swapped out. He still loves his lamb just as much as he ever did. Even more it seems sometimes. Levi and Lambie are nearly inseparable now. Everywhere Levi goes, Lambie goes too. Even to the babysitter’s house. And the… read more.

U.S. Representative John ...A Balanced Budget Would Create Jobs and Expand Opportunity
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following column discussing House Republicans’ plan to balance the budget in 10 years: “Recently I had a chance to meet with several employers in Butler County. It’s always great to gather feedback, listen to concerns, and talk about ways to help job creators grow and hire. “In contrast to what the White House and Democrats in Congress are saying, I know – and I hear… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge….Gun Control? ……or just CONTROL??? By Joe Facinoli
The Second Amendment to our Constitution guarantees and allows any citizen of the United States of America the right to possess and own Black Hawk helicopter gunships, machine gun turrets, and any Sherman Tank which they can find, if they so desire, and can afford them. And a half million rounds of ammo, too, if they want. Really. Find and show me anything to the contrary. “A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right… read more.

On Fracking Controversy...Just one little detail, By Lyn Bliss
The League of Women Voters (LWV) was formed with a purpose they declared to be, “helping women carry out their new responsibilities as voters”. What a great and noble cause… except for one detail. “From the spirit of the suffrage movement and the shock of the First World War came a great idea - that a nonpartisan civic organization could provide the education and experience the public needed to assure the success of democracy. The League... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… The Common Sense Initiative a Benefit to all Ohioans
Two years ago, I began talking with constituents about the Common Sense Initiative (CSI). The Common Sense Initiative is the brain child of Lt. Governor Mary Taylor. The core principle is providing a government watchdog to ensure bureaucracy makes doing business in Ohio less challenging and as a result increases job opportunities in this state. The office of the Common Sense Initiative examines all administrative rules before they are approved and… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… To the tax break(ing) point, By Aprill Brandon
You guys, I feel so bad. I can't believe I have been so selfish and near-sighted. Not to mention, so utterly unfair. I mean, to think! That I could possibly be the cause of so much financial strife and anguish. I am so so deeply ashamed right now. Yes, dear readers, it is with a heavy heart that I inform you my husband and I just finished our taxes and as it turns out, we have cheated our poor government out of their hard-earned money. To… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown... Reducing Prescription Drug Costs for Consumers, Saving Money for the Government
Right now, everyone in Washington is focused on fiscal issues – getting our financial house in order. This is something families in Ohio have been dealing with for some time. We know how to do this. We can improve health outcomes and simultaneously save money for our consumers and for the federal government. A couple of years… read more.

Life with Levi… Speaking Minion, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson, Assistant Editor
Levi is bilingual. He can speak English a little, but his first language seems to be Minion. I know I’ve mentioned it in a previous column, but for those of you who missed it, or who don’t remember, the minions I speak of are the little yellow guys in the movie, Despicable Me. And they speak some form of gibberish that I can’t fully understand. This is the language my son speaks fluently. Or at least I figure that must be the language that he’s speaking… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Responsible Budgeting Key to Ohio’s Success
You don’t have to watch the news for very long to realize the federal government is in disarray. The national debt is approaching $17 trillion and there seems to be no sign of slowing down. Taxpayers of future generations will be on the hook for the excessive spending of today, which is unsustainable by anyone’s estimation. Not long ago, Ohio was acting in much the same way as the federal government. By the end of 2010, the state was staring at an $8… read more.

State Representative Richard Adams… Transparency Integral to Democracy
A democracy is defined as a “government by the people; a form of government in which the supreme power is vested in the people and exercised directly by them or by their elected agents under a free electoral system.” To me it seems that the United States was built upon the idea that the people and government are interlinked to form a great, free nation. This means the government should be held accountable and also should be transparent. I’m happy to say… read more.

U.S Representative John …The President’s Sequester Still Needs to Be Replaced
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following column discussing the president’s sequester: “For two weeks now, President Obama’s sequester has been in place. And for two weeks, the White House has rightly faced criticism for its implementation of the sequester’s across-the-board cuts. “From shutting down White House tours to spreading fear of long lines at airports, I’m disappointed in the way that the… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge…Blinded by the Wrong Light..., By Joe Facinoli
The wide and wonderful, political and cultural diversity in this country should be celebrated. The abuse, misuse, and overuse of it,…..should not. With so many people, from so many different and varied groups, desperately seeking some sort of Light, some source of fulfillment, of hope and opportunity, or motivation, it has become far too easy for them to find, accept, and ultimately settle for and believe in, …..the “truth as we say it is” pretenders. Enter… read more .

Broke Wife, Big City… Perhaps it's lupus, By Aprill Brandon
So, I've been sick the past few days. Or at least, I think I have. It could be that I'm dying. To tell the truth, even though I've "technically" never died before, it feels pretty similar to what I imagine dying is like. The only thing missing is a tunnel, a bright light and the ability to legally obtain morphine. Yes, now that I've entered my 30's, getting sick is a whole new ball game. A horrible, horrible new ball game composed of hulked up… read more.

Life with Levi… Levi’s snowy day, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson, Assistant Editor
Even though Levi is nearing his second birthday, he has never experienced snow. Or at least playing in it. He’s seen his share of snow over the last couple of winters, but the poor little guy has always been too sick to go out and play in it. And of course Mommy isn’t going to send her sick baby boy outside in the cold even if it is for a little fun. So finally, last week when we got what will turn out to be our last big snow before spring, Levi got to go… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Protecting Our Local Bingo Halls
Currently, the General Assembly is reviewing House Bill 7, which would change current law as it relates to sweepstakes terminals and games of chance. This bill is a culmination of two years of work to ensure illegal gaming is eliminated and charitable gaming is protected. This legislation is supported by Attorney General Mike Dewine, who told the Policy and Legislative Oversight Committee that “40 percent of the people seeking help for problem gambling at … read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge...Hiding From the Light..., By Joe Facinoli
There is still a Light out there, and it is not dimming, nor dying, nor going anywhere. It is always shining, sometimes brighter than in other moments, has many varied sources, but is a constant. And most politicians spend a lifetime trying to hide from it. Leaving religious thoughts aside, for the purpose of a more politically based discussion, this Light is indeed what we are about as a country, and a culture, and where we are from. And where… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Ensuring Ohio Taxpayers Don’t Pay for Wall Street’s Failures
Most Ohioans would be surprised to know that the same Wall Street megabanks which received bailouts from taxpayers in 2009 also receive taxpayer-funded advantages today simply because of their “too big to fail” status. This taxpayer- supplied subsidy is wrong, and it puts community banks in Ohio at a competitive disadvantage. This gives them access to cheaper funding and more favorable borrowing terms than dependable Main Street institutions - like… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… Pills and creams! Pills and creams! By Aprill Brandon
Last night, my husband and I had a small dinner party. Just a few friends, some good music, a delicious meal and a few (dozen) bottles of wine. It was a wonderful time had by all. Cut to this morning, when we woke up exhausted and suffering from indigestion, a major headache, and sore muscles (from the effort of cooking...COOKING!). All of which we remedied by swallowing a ridiculous amount of pills with two gallons of black coffee… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Legislation Aimed at Getting Ohioans Back to Work
Since JobsOhio was signed into law two years ago, businesses have had more confidence to invest and expand, resulting in the creation of more than 120,000 Ohio jobs. The unemployment rate has fallen by nearly 2.5 percent, and with the national unemployment rate increasing last month, Ohio’s rate now stands more than a point lower than the national average. In Mercer and neighboring counties, we have the lowest unemployment rate in Ohio thanks in large… read more.

Commissioners Corner… Proposed Sales Tax, Wellness Program & More
February has been a mixed bag weather-wise this year. One day it is 50 and sunny, then in the afternoon we have snow showers. Hopefully, as February closes, the weather will even out and we will have an early spring for everyone. February has been an up and down month in the Commissioner’s office as well. We have many things we are working on, but once we get things set, we have to wait on a… read more.

The Other Side of the Edge…“Stepping on the Throat….”, By Joe Facinoli
Military leaders have a saying. Coaches in all sports use it as well. When your enemy, or your opponent, is down, and nearly out, “Step on their throat!” Nearing victory, or close to imposing a stinging defeat, they will exhort to their underlings: “Don’t let them up!,…..Don’t give them the chance to breathe again.” The idea being, that if you “let them up”, then they could possibly get new life, have time to regroup, and… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Helping Ohio Workers Compete in a Global Economy
At the President’s State of the Union address, I was joined by Cookie Hall, a second-generation Cleveland steelworker who knows from experience that American workers are the most productive in the world. Cookie works at Cleveland Works, a steel plant owned by ArcelorMittal North America. Workers at this plant produce one ton of steel per each man hour of work – making it the most efficient steel plant in the world. There is no disputing that our workers… read more.

The Other Side of the Edge… Live Each Moment, By Joe Facinoli
He is 92, she is 88. Until five years ago, he was married to the wonderful woman who had been his bride, for sixty one years. Until six years ago, she was the very happy wife of the charming man she had married, fifty nine years before. Both the wonderful woman and the charming man have passed on now. Until three years ago, the survivors of these long, well lived lives, had not met. Until two years ago, both thought that they would never again know… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… Happy National De-Hair Your Body Day, By Aprill Brandon
So, Valentine's Day is coming up. Or, as I like to call it for us women, National De-Hair Your Entire Body Day. Yes, every morning on February 14, or perhaps the night before (or for those of us who are in longer-term relationships, five days before followed by a brief shower inspection followed by the sentiment "screw it, the stubble isn't that bad"), women across this great nation of ours will waste countless hours and hard-earned money… read more.

From The Other Side of the Edge… The Role Reversal, By Joe Facinoli
There they were, all cutesy, and so giddy with excitement and anticipation, trying not to be too obvious about anything, as if they hadn't passed that point already, and as if their smile plastered faces wouldn't totally give something away. They had strategically taken the two seats opposite the couch, leaving that for me, there in the modest sized living room. The chosen chairs, overstuffed platform rockers actually, were separated by a small table, which… read more.

Life with Levi… No, no and… no, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson, Assistant Editor
So I knew it was coming, but I still wasn’t quite prepared for it. Ok, I was flat-out dreading it, but the time has come… NO! The work above is the only word in the English language that my son likes to use on a regular basis. Even when it’s not the word he’s looking for… He uses it anyway. He worked up to it slowly, but over the past couple of weeks, he’s been abusing that two-letter word that Mommy now despises above all else… read more.

U.S. Representative John … It’s Time for President Obama to Get Serious About Replacing his Sequester
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following column discussing the president’s sequester: “Over the past 10 years, more than $100 million in EPA grants have gone to foreign countries. The IRS spends $4 million annually to run its own full-service television studio. And I could go on. “With… read more.

Your Opinion, Please!
Monday, Feb. 25, 2013 - County News Online readers are terrific! You’ve helped us to grow from a January 2011 Page View count of about 7,000 to a high of 186,000 page views in December. Our specialties have been George Starks’ unique approach to sports, complete photo coverage of community events, offering a simple and easy way to find out what’s happening in Darke County, and… Opinions! We have lots… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge... "Stupid is, ....as Stupid Does" By Joe Facinoli
The Sequester needs to happen. But first, ....who knew that Forrest Gump is so much smarter than Congress?? Not to mention all of the White House acolytes and hand wringers who surround this President. And as well, the entire lapdog mainstream media, which buys all the fear mongering and doomsday scenarios, wholesale. Who knew? We have come to this kind of comparison, because all previous standards… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Achievement Everywhere in Ohio
Recently, we were able to take a first look at Governor Kasich’s plan to increase funding for Ohio’s school children. The plan will be one part of his budget, which is subject to legislative changes. As of now the plan pulls Ohio school funding back into line with the DeRolph ruling, increases school funding and establishes the Straight A fund to reward schools that are dedicated to improving educational strategies in their district… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… If you catch my (snow) drift, By Aprill Brandon
I now have a new reason to look forward to getting old. That reason? Future Aprill now gets to be that old person who sits her grandkids down and forces them to listen to the story of how I survived the Great Blizzard of 2013. Yes, dear reader, yours truly has finally joined the ranks of the privileged few (million) who have lived through a historic storm and therefore have earned the indisputable right to bore those who didn't experience it… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Standing Up for Ohio Manufacturers
We know Ohio workers and Ohio manufacturers can compete with anyone. We have skilled, productive workers and world-class infrastructure. But for years, we’ve seen evidence of unfair trade practices – like currency manipulation – costing Americans jobs. Currency manipulation occurs when a country undervalues its currency to effectively subsidize its exports. This allows countries—like China—to sell their exports for cheaper, which is why so many… read more.

Life with Levi… Man of the House, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson, Assistant Editor
This past weekend, my husband Aaron went out of town for Advocare Success School in Dallas, Texas, which meant that me and Levi were home by ourselves from Thursday night until Sunday. When Daddy left on Thursday, I told Levi that he was the man of the house for the weekend. And he took full advantage of the situation. He made sure to make as many messes as possible, and flush the toilet in Daddy’s absence. He also tried to help… read more.

U.S. Representative John … Serving Ohio's 8th District is all about the People
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Speaker John (R-OH) released the following column discussing his Ohio guests for the 2013 State of the Union Address: “Recently, several blogs used a Flickr photo of me in my U.S. Capitol office to compile lists of the ‘most interesting things’ on my desk. Clearly, it must have been a slow news day. “My daily devotional made one list, as did a miniature statue of St. Peter, my copy… read more.

The Other Side of the Edge.... The "Campaigner-In-Chief" By Joe Facinoli
When did the revered and august House of Representatives Chamber, in the world recognized and historic U.S. Capitol Building, in Washington, D.C., the nation's capitol, become nothing more than the end of a train "whistle stop", on the latest "sling it fast and heavy, and then get out of town before anyone asks you questions" medicine show and campaign tour?? When did the President of the United States, fulfilling his… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Ensuring Ohioans Have the Paid Sick Days They Deserve
This has been a particularly tough flu-season – for Ohioans of all ages. To put it into perspective, as of January 19, more than 3,000 flu-associated hospitalizations were reported to the Ohio Department of Health. During this same period last year, there were fewer than 100 flu-associated hospitalizations. With extensive hospitalizations and a few deaths, it’s clear that the flu is widespread throughout our state. And while it’s important to be aware of the steps you… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Governor Kasich to Deliver State of the State Address in Lima
This coming Tuesday, Governor Kasich will deliver the traditional State of the State Address in Lima at the Veterans’ Memorial Civic Center. We are fortunate that Governor Kasich has selected this part of Ohio to highlight our job growth and the efforts of west central Ohio to get our economy moving again. I look forward to welcoming the 132 members of the Ohio General Assembly to Lima, which I feel resembles an economic hub of the prosperous… read more.

That’s My Opinion...They Tell Me I’m Nuts, By Bob Robinson
This was originally written in 2003 and is a chapter from my book, God Don’t Make Junk, from Ramblings of an Old Man. While parties in power may change, the ideologies between the left and the right don’t. If anything, the divide between these two forces have intensified… Three California professors, plus one in Maryland, conducted an exhaustive study – at taxpayer expense – and have now published their results. Conservatives are nuts. … read more.

An Open Apology, Darke County Commissioner Mike Stegall
Monday evening I was invited to speak to the Darke County Fire Chiefs Association. I was offered the chance to explain my article on joint fire districts for Darke County. Yes, I knew when it was written it would cause concern with some entities, especially our local fire chiefs and firemen. Yes, I expected a hostile audience. Yes, I figured there would be some rough patches in the meeting, but, a lot of firemen voted for… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… My Yearly Report to Ohioans
Fellow Ohioan, No matter where I travel throughout our state, I never fail to be impressed by what people from all walks of life are doing to strengthen the place we call home. I’d like to present to you my 2012 Report to Ohioans, which chronicles our work together last year. Citizens of all 88 counties – farmers and firefighters, teachers and truck drivers, scientists and service members, manufacturers and all middle… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… Having daddy issues with Father Winter, By Aprill Brandon
So, I don't know who came up with this whole "four seasons that are equal in length" concept, but they should be fired. Or better yet, fired and then punched in the throat. Or, ideally, fired and then punched in the throat and then stabbed, then shot, then stabbed again, then kicked in the junk, then given a series of purple nurples, then drawn and quartered, and then made to listen to Macy Gray albums over and over again until their ears… read more.

Life with Levi… Smarty diaper, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson, Assistant Editor
It’s official. Levi is too smart for his own good. As long as he’s been mobile, he has been curious about everything around him. He loves messing with things, trying to figure out how they work. And he loves trying new things to see if they work. Last week, Levi figured out that bologna sticks to things. It sticks to his highchair that he eats in. It sticks to the VCR. And it sticks to the wall. It sticks so well, in fact, that if you wanted to, you could eat it off… read more.

U.S. Senator Rob Portman… Despite Washington's Dysfunction, We're Fighting For Ohio
January 25, 2013 - On the big issues, Washington is broken. With a chronically weak economy and record debt and deficits, unfortunately Democrats and Republicans simply aren’t coming together to tackle big challenges the nation faces. Yet I am pleased to report that even in Washington’s partisan environment, my team and I have remained focused on producing results and we’ve had some important successes for Ohio. In fact, even as a freshman… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Committee Assignments Will Impact Us in West Central Ohio
Recently, appointments were made for standing committees for the 130th General Assembly. This term there are 17 standing committees and 6 sub committees in the Ohio House and each member sits on approximately three committees. This term I will serve on Agriculture and Natural Resources, Rules and Reference, and the new Policy and Legislative Oversight. For as long as I have been a legislator I have… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge… “Disagreeing” with a Liberal….. a Primer, By Joe Facinoli
Disagreeing with a Liberal, or arguing with them, as those discussions so often deteriorate into anyway, can be problematic for clearer thinking souls, or at least those of a more conservative stripe. So, a quick lesson, or Primer, if you will, may be in order for a more successful understanding of the process. Card carrying Liberal Democrats, and their fellow Libs of all shapes and sizes, especially those of certain broadcast… read more.

Kasich Communication Department… Canton Repository - Finally, a real response to DeRolph: editorial
The issue: School funding reform - Our view: 22 years after lawsuit was filed, plan would minimize local property wealth - Mountains of number crunching will necessarily follow the unveiling of Gov. John Kasich’s school funding plan Thursday. But it was immediately clear that for the first time, the state is directly addressing the disparities that led to the Ohio Supreme Court’s rulings that the way the state funds schools is unconstitutional. There is much more to… read more.

The White House… Obama's four points on Immigration Reform
Dear friends -- Our immigration system is broken. It has been for some time. Right now, there are 11 million people living in a shadow economy. There are Americans waiting in long lines to reunite with their families. There are employers who are exploiting the system by hiring undocumented workers, and that threatens the wages and working conditions of American workers. None of this is good for the economy, and it isn’t fair for the middle class… read more.

What Does it Mean to Be a Leader on Your Farm? By Sam Custer
Stan Moore from Michigan State University Extension recently addressed the topic of leadership on farms. This is a topic many farm managers struggle with, but is one of the critical functions that all farm managers must perform well. Below is the article Moore wrote for the Michigan State University Extension News. What does it mean to be a leader? According to John Maxwell, “leadership is influence”. Being a leader means that your influence causes… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… Butt fur the grace of God, By Aprill Brandon
There are many distinct advantages to having a dog vs. having a child. For instance, when your child is misbehaving and you just can't take it anymore, sticking them in a crate for six hours while you get some much needed "me" time usually results in "jail" time. Likewise, it is frowned upon by authorities to hit your kid with a newspaper (and/or a September Vogue when they've been a VERY BAD BOY!) or to rub their face in… read more.

Life with Levi… Levi’s favorite teacher, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson
I love my son, and I love my husband. But I hate leaving them alone together! Seems like every time Mommy comes home after a father-son bonding day, Levi has learned some new trick that Mommy really wishes that he hadn’t learned. For example, Aaron had a day off last week so he and Levi got to stay home together. I walk in the door from a long day at work and Daddy says, “Levi! Show Mommy what you learned today!”… read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge: Lady Macbeth.... by Joe Facinoli
I have never really been an ardent follower of "The Bard", but enough of one to recognize a true, tragically Shakespearean-type character, albeit in modern form, when I see one. And, as with so many of The Great One's leading figures, this current edition has taken on a caricature-like life of her own, following closely to his descriptions, but then rising from the pages (or the I-Pad screen) to become so much more… read more.

New CNO columnist… Meet Joe Facinoli
“I'm getting back in the mood more now, after the shock and numbness has started to wear off from last fall's results, so I'm anticipating there will be a few more thoughts, hopefully readable, on ‘just a few’ current and pertinent topics, to clutter up cyberspace a bit more.” “I was heartsick, depressed and felt like I had been physically kicked in the gut! Am just now starting to dust myself off, unruffle my… read more.

Commissioners Corner... Ahead of the curve in Workforce Development
The New Year is underway, it is our typical January in the Miami Valley, and everyone is ready for spring to begin. The New Year always brings new hope for better things, and Darke County is also looking to improve on a very impressive 2012. We are looking forward to keeping Darke County headed in a positive direction. Darke County Auditor Carol Ginn submitted the County’s General Fund Appropriations.… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Securing a Better Deal for Ohio Homeowners
In 2011, Jeanne Brigner reached out to my office after her mortgage servicer misapplied her monthly mortgage payment – an action which led her into foreclosure. Unlike many Ohioans, Jeanne was able to keep her home, but only after paying thousands of dollars in unnecessary fees. Unfortunately, the state of mortgage servicing is so bad that Jeanne is considered one of the lucky ones. Last week, in Columbus, Youngstown, and Toledo, I heard from… read more.

Quality People, By Bob Robinson
They keep talking about “The Golden Years.” I’m not sure who came up with the phrase, but I don’t think it was anyone in their “golden years.” According to Sandra Snider, faithwriters.com, it was strictly economic. Financial service providers and retirement community builders coined it to spin the myth that old age is a lot like childhood… no more responsibilities. Sit back and enjoy! “The life you’ve waited your… read more.

State Representative Richard Adams… Ohio House Will Continue Focusing on Jobs, Education
It is custom at the beginning of every legislative term for the legislature to lay out goals, as well as ideas for how best to achieve them. These ideas focus on issues that are most important for the state. Often, while other issues obviously surface along the way, the top policy issues that are established at the beginning of the General Assembly require the most time and attention. The biggest priority of House Republicans under Speaker… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… But white girls are always on a diet, aren't they? By Aprill Brandon
You guys...I don't know. Is it just me or does this new year just seem...I don't know...a bit lackluster? A bit blah? I mean, 2013? Thirteen itself is just a crappy number. Unlucky, even. And was anyone happy when they turned 13? Of course not. You had acne and hair sprouting in weird places and were the very definition of awkward and everyone hated you because you were SUPER annoying. Even the end of the world Mayan prediction… read more.

Life with Levi… Levi’s first hotel stay, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson, Assistant Editor
This past weekend, our little family ventured to the big city of Indianapolis to visit my grandmother, aunt and uncle. Normally, we would have stayed overnight with them, but since this was Levi’s first official night away from home, we opted for a hotel instead. When we first arrived at the hotel, Levi thought the elevator ride was cool. He giggled when it took off and again when it stopped on our floor. Next was the hallway. For… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Death Tax Now a Part of Ohio History
A few weeks ago, while people around the world counted down the end of 2012, around here the celebration could have been counting down the elimination of Ohio’s death tax. The estate tax, or “death tax,” in Ohio dates back to the late 19th century, when it was first adopted. This regressive and outdated taxing method has become a major impediment to economic growth and has cost companies and family farms a great deal of money, sometimes forcing… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… The Pizza Principle, By Aprill Brandon
You know, I often wonder what it'll be like when I'm old. You know, like, when I'm 35. Ha! I kid. Thirty-five is now the new 12. You're not technically old until 44. Everyone knows that. But seriously, I do often wonder how things will be when I'm in my 70's and I'm (hopefully) a grandmother to grandkids who are way less messed up than my actual kids. And they all gather around their Ninja Gammy (<-----trademarked) and ask "What was it like… read more.

Life with Levi… Lambie goes into hiding, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson, Assistant Editor
It finally happened. The dreaded flu bug has finally made it’s way into our house. We’ve all been getting by pretty well. Had some sniffles, coughs, and a couple of colds, but nothing as bad as this. And, of course, the baby would have to get it first. Poor little Levi. He went to bed last night just fine, and woke up this morning with tummy troubles. And poor Daddy was home alone with the baby when the flu bug reared its ugly head… read more.

U.S. Representative John … A Simple Principle: No Budget, No Pay
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Speaker John (R-OH) released the following column discussing legislation that will require both the House and Senate to pass a budget, and withhold member pay if they fail: “When I and my Republican colleagues were entrusted with the majority in the House of Representatives in 2010, we committed ourselves to addressing our nation's debt problem and re-establishing trust between the American people… read more

A Darke County Editorial Icon… Paul Ackley joins CNO
Paul Ackley has been an active Editorial Cartoonist for over thirty years. In 2009 and 2010, he was awarded ‘Best Editorial Cartoonist' by the Ohio Associated Press. Ackley has a drawing displayed in House Speaker John 's Washington D.C. office... Click below for the complete biography. Paul will be joining CNO each Monday. You never know what he has on his mind, so you won’t want to miss a single post… click here.

Modern Day Pied Piper, That’s My Opinion By Bob Robinson
The so-called “Fiscal Cliff” was averted on Tuesday, January 1, 2013. The Senate passed the legislation in the early hours. The House, after much groaning and complaining, passed it just before midnight. Income tax was raised on those the Democrats referred to as “the rich” from 36 percent to 39.6 percent. “The rich,” by Dem definition, were single income filers earning $400K a year and joint filers earning $450K a… read more

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Staying Healthy During Flu Season
Following tragic reports of deaths from the flu in Ohio, Connie and I send our thoughts and prayers to the families of those who have lost a loved one to this terrible and sudden illness. At the same time, we must actively take steps to prevent the illness from spreading. My office has been briefed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on new information about this season’s flu and the preventive steps Ohioans can take. Through sharing… read more

State Representative Jim Buchy… Two Years of Targeting more Gun Rights and Freedoms
The issue of our gun possession rights remains paramount in this state. The importance of protecting the Second Amendment and improving concealed carry laws was a key topic of the Ohio General Assembly over the last two years. In west central Ohio, we know it is a matter of freedom. To our benefit the Ohio government passed three pieces of legislation in the gun owner’s favor. In the past two years, we fought tirelessly to enact laws that keep… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… I don't know how she doesn't do it, By Aprill Brandon
Once upon a time (2010), in a land far, far away (exotic South Texas), there lived a woman (for lack of a better term) who was an expert at juggling many balls (not as dirty as it sounds). From dawn to dusk, the woman ran around (in a most elegant woman-like style), like a giant chicken with its head cut off (albeit in stylish and really, really painful heels). And then, suddenly one day, the woman… read more

Life with Levi… The life of the party, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson
On Sunday afternoon, I hosted a Thirty-One party. Or should I say, Levi hosted a Thirty-One party. When I decided a few weeks back to host this party at my house, I knew that Levi would be at it, and I figured that he would be pretty good since my mom and sister would be there. For those of you who aren’t familiar, Thirty-One is a company that sells purses, bags and storage containers in cute, colorful patterns that can be personalized (and for… read more

Magic coins in wonderland? By Jim Surber
I’ve decided that it is unfortunate that Lewis Carroll wasn’t born a century or so later than he was. Think of how much more inspiration he could have gleaned for his satirical works from our modern US government than from Victorian England. Consider this conversation between Alice and the Cheshire cat in his “Alice in Wonderland.” “But I don’t want to go among mad people,” Alice remarked. “Oh, you can’t help that,” said… read more

State Representative Jim Buchy... Two Years of Steps Forward in the Pro-Life Movement
The issue of life remains paramount in this state. Governor Kasich and state leaders have made protecting and enhancing life an emphasis during the past two years. While our team worked to balance a budget that included an $8 billion hole and put Ohioans back to work, we continued to provide a focus on the issue of life concurrently. That focus was driven by the pro-life community, which has played a… read more

Life’s Challenges, By Kathy Magoto
Life is busy and it seems that we all walk a thin line in life. It’s a constant balancing act between our civic responsibilities, our personal and physical well being, as well as our spiritual growth. For most of us we lose our peace when we struggle to find enough time, energy or money to accomplish the goals we deem important. For example, a friend of mine has been working lots of overtime, they have no personal… read more

State Representative Jim Buchy… Removing Obstacles to Quality Education in Ohio
In the past two years you have heard a lot about changes to Ohio’s education system. Through a cooperative effort between lawmakers, teachers, parents, and students, we have passed several bills that increase and improve educational opportunities for young Ohioans. As we near the end of this General Assembly, I am proud to look back at everything the Ohio House has accomplished to strengthen Ohio’s schools… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… It's the end of the world as the Mayans know it, By Aprill Brandon
Even though technically I'm writing this before the supposed end of the world on Dec. 21, I'm going to go out on a limb here and assume that we didn't all meet our fiery doom simply because the Mayans got lazy with their math homework. And if I'm wrong, well, pffft... what are you going to do about it? Judge me? Shove it in my face? You're freaking dead. But even though this prophecy is complete bunk… read more

Life with Levi… The Great Lambie Swap of 2012, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson
Meet Lambie. Lambie is Levi’s bestest friend in the whole wide world. If he were allowed, Levi would take Lambie everywhere! Lambie is a must at bedtime, and when Levi is sick. This poor lamb has been through it all… He’s been puked on, peed on, but thankfully never pooped on. And after a half dozen washes (even though the tag strictly forbids machine washing), Lambie stinks! Here’s a little background on Levi’s little lamb… read more

Key to our success: Youth, Family & Community, By Bob Robinson
An Editor’s Perspective: Sports photos, Letters to Santa, Student Accomplishments & More
County News Online was “conceived” as a fundraising project for the Senior Scribes Scholarship Fund. Net proceeds from CNO are used to provide scholarships to help our young people reach their college goals. We’ve made no bones about the fact that our purpose is unique… our goal is not to compete with other information sources… read more

Darke County Commissioner Mike Stegall… Joint Fire/EMS Districts: Are we Ready?
Several months ago I ask the question “Is now the time for joint fire and EMS districts in Darke County?” I wanted to set up a group to study the situation, but since this was such a hot button issue, I decided to do the research myself. I want to restate that I have no dog in this fight one way or the other. I was just trying to figure out if we are doing everything we can in the County to save lives and dollars. I do not hate firemen, (I helped start a fire department… read more

Time to Fight Back, By Jana Kolling
There comes a time occasionally when a “tipping point” is reached and something has to happen. It’s here. 26 people were killed in Connecticut, and the media spent 2 weeks up there uncovering the most gruesome details possible. All the usual leftwing suspects go on their tiresome tirades about racism, hate, fear, guns and our despicable nation. Now, any well-schooled conservative already knows the ends to their means. Liberals MUST perpetuate racial… read more

Speaker John … 2013 Must Be About Cutting Spending and Reforming the Tax Code
WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Speaker John (R-OH) issued the following statement following passage of the Senate agreement on the fiscal cliff: “The federal government has a spending problem that has led to a $16 trillion national debt that threatens our country’s future. On the day after the election, I proposed that both parties work together to avert the fiscal cliff in a manner that would ensure 2013 is the year we finally enact entitlement reform and… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… The 10 Canine Commandments, By Aprill Brandon
There comes a time in your relationship with your pet where you have to lay down the law. For me, that time was last week, when my dog, Buffy, almost ripped my arm out of its socket because he saw a SQUIRREL! Ignoring my pleas of "Stop it! Now! You are so grounded!" as I half-stumbled/half-ran behind him, Buffy broke the silent agreement we had (or at least I thought we had) that he would obey… read more

2012: A Year of Good Times and Not so Good Times, That’s My Opinion By Bob Robinson
Good times. Where do I start? Family first. Always. Those of us who are so blessed need to remember that not everyone is so fortunate. Be grateful for the loved ones who surround you, and be compassionate toward those who may be suffering. County News Online. Nearly two and a half years ago this month, three Senior Scribes – Lyn Bliss, Kurt Fritsch and yours truly – sat at a table in the BRC cafeteria having a… read more

Thoughts for the New Year… Share your time and your talents, By Kathy Magoto
Happy Holidays! How did this phrase go from being preferred to barely acceptable? This is just another example of the pendulum swinging too far left before it heads toward the right. Personally I have nothing against the “all encompassing terminology. We have Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years closely together and these are the holidays that affect the majority of us locally, but perhaps we know or… read more

Life with Levi… Daddy’s Little Helper, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson
Well, we survived the “Blizzard” of 2012. Mommy and Levi didn’t leave the house until Thursday after the level 3 was dropped, but just because we didn’t leave the house doesn’t mean we didn’t have any fun! Since we got snowed in on the day after Christmas, that meant that Levi still had a few Christmas gifts that still hadn’t come out of the box (some assembly required). So once Daddy got home… read more

That’s My Opinion… Lives would be saved, By Bob Robinson
“I know it is opinion. I also know that you are perceived to be ‘above the average’”… I’ve seen ‘backhanded’ compliments before – perceived? This one was obvious enough, delivered by an acquaintance as he asked to be removed from CNO’s Nightly Update. He didn’t like my “rant” at the time, an opinion piece entitled ‘Obama’s America.’ It surprised me. While I knew that we didn’t always agree – we had talked many… read more

Commissioners Corner… Give thanks to God for our Blessings
As this is written, it is in the middle of the Holiday season. Thanksgiving is over, Christmas is just a week away, and soon the New Year will be upon us. The year has gone by more quickly than any of us would like, but time marches on and we must march with it. This past weekend the tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut reminded all of us all that life is precious, fleeting, and to be enjoyed to it’s fullest every day… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… 'Twas the month before Christmas, By Aprill Brandon
‘Twas a month before Christmas, when all through the house - Not a creature was stirring, except for my husband (who was hunting a mouse). The traps were all placed in the kitchen with care - In the hopes that a dead rodent soon would be there. I was nestled all snug and a ‘lil drunk in my bed - While visions of sexy fun times danced in my head - But Ryan in his PJ’s, armed with those silly traps - Refused… read more

Life with Levi… Merry ‘Melt Down Free’ Christmas, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson
By the time most of you read this, all of Levi’s presents will be open and our second Christmas morning as a family will have passed. And Levi (and Mommy!) will be hoping that Christmas is over! His first Christmas gathering came at my grandparents house on the 15th. He only had a few presents to open, and we all had a blast. So far, so good. But for his second Christmas with my… read more

State Representative Buchy… Commitment Remains to Restoring Grand Lake St. Marys
The past three summers in the Grand Lake St. Marys region have not been an ideal situation for our local communities. The constant question on our minds during these winter months is; will the algae be back next year; and will it be less troublesome or more than the past few years? Each year at the lake has been slightly different. However; local and state commitment to working on this issue has never… read more

What if we stopped for one day?... May I suggest a sacred day devoted to the children of the world?, By Beverly Hughes - So many are crying, shocked and crying, angry and crying, praying while crying. American flags were ordered at half-mast. A football team held a moment of silence. A movie premier was canceled. Some, shuddering, have taken down their festive holiday lights. We are shaken and saddened. However, most people will go on to finish their holiday shopping and enjoy their parties. We probably should… read more

State Representative Richard Adams... Paying Tribute to Ohio’s Fallen Military Heroes
On November 15th, I had the privilege of attending a ceremony at the Statehouse that honored men and women from all over Ohio who lost their lives fighting for our country during 2011. Since 2009, the Ohio Military Medal of Distinction has been given to the families that have had to endure the tragedy of a loved one killed in the line of duty. The members of the legislature conduct this event each year. It is truly remarkable to think about individuals willingly… read more

A time of mourning, By Bob Robinson
If there was one thing that upset me more than the President of the United States on Sunday evening – a little over 48 hours after a national tragedy – getting on network television and alluding to a decades-long partisan debate, it’s the national media jumping on it like a jackal on its first meal in days. I expected President Obama’s message to be one of mourning and consoling on behalf of 20 children who lost their lives in a little town in Connecticut, and… read more

Life with Levi: Meet Levi… And Levi’s Mommy, By Amanda Rodeheffer-Olson
Welcome to life with Levi! It’s been a while since many of you have heard from me (yes, I’m the Amanda Rodeheffer from the Advocate) and a lot has happened since then. Obviously, I am now married, and I have a little boy named Levi. He’s a year and a half (19 months to be exact) and he keeps Mommy and Daddy on our toes! He is Levi when he’s good, Levi Gideon when he’s pushing… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… Oh yes, this Christmas WILL be different, By Aprill Brandon
It never fails. Every single December, I tell myself “Yes, this year WILL be different. This year will be the year I have the most perfect Christmas ever! So perfect I'll make Mrs. Claus look like a chump!” And then, every single December, my plans crumble like the crappy store-bought Christmas cookies I got in lieu of actually baking some from scratch like I planned because I ran out of time. I can… read more

Hold your babies tight, By Bob Robinson
I, along with millions of others, saw a horrible tragedy unfold Friday… and continue into Saturday… and Sunday… and beyond. One that will likely stay with us through Christmas and the Holiday season, and well into the New Year. To many of us, it is so horrible to contemplate, it had to be a nightmare… one that will go away in the morning. It didn’t go away. “I was devastated over what happened on Sept. 11. I believe this is worse,” said one local mother… read more

Speaker John … Washington Has a Spending Problem that Can’t Be Fixed with Tax Hikes
Dec 13, 2012 - Washington-At his weekly press conference today, House Speaker John (R-OH) underscored the need for serious spending cuts to avert the fiscal cliff, begin addressing our staggering debt, and support economic growth. Speaker highlighted a new chart by the House Budget Committee showing that America has a spending problem – not a revenue problem – that can only be addressed by cutting spending, not raising… read more

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Claiming Tax Refunds, Protecting Tax Cuts
Good communication is important, and poor communication can be costly. Unfortunately, miscommunication between Washington and Ohio could cost families in Wilmington and Orville up to $3,700 next year. As the New Year quickly approaches, it’s critical that Ohio families are aware of the unclaimed tax refunds that may be owed to them by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Often times, inaccurate addresses… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… Snow You Didn’t, By Aprill Brandon
I don't even want to say it. Because the second I say it, I'll just jinx it. So, I'm not going to say it. Except I'm going to say it. One, because this would be one heck of a short article if I didn't. And two, it's only honorable to let the rest of you fine residents know who to blame when this all blows up in my face. So...here goes... I want a white Christmas. I know, I KNOW! You don't wish for snow here. That's like… read more

U.S. Representative John … A Balanced Approach to Averting the Fiscal Cliff
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Speaker John (R-OH) released the following column discussing Congressional Republicans’ support of a balanced approach to averting the fiscal cliff: “Just weeks away looms the ‘fiscal cliff,’ a combination of automatic tax increases and spending cuts that everybody in Washington claims they want to avoid. “Republicans want to work with the president to steer our economy… read more

Senator Sherrod Brown… Extending Middle Class Tax Cuts, Protecting Middle Class Families
Ohioans have been hearing about the fiscal cliff a lot lately. The "cliff" applies to a January 1st deadline when the law, enacted by a bipartisan majority of both houses of Congress, requires a mix of spending cuts and tax increases. This sudden dose of austerity will put us on a long-term path to budget stability, but it will also send our nation into a recession for the better part of next year. Fortunately, there is an… read more

Republicans Can Solve the Fiscal Cliff, By Charles & Rebecca Reier
Republicans can quickly and easily solve the Fiscal Cliff problem by taking the following small steps for the benefit of mankind. First, insist that China abide by FAIR trade rules and return jobs to deserving Americans. Bi-partisan support already exists for this mandate. Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney stated that he would label China as a currency manipulator and an UNFAIR trade partner. On the other side of the aisle the Senior Democratic Senator from New York, Charles Schumer… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… The grown-up side of Christmas, By Aprill Brandon
Something very strange has been going on these past few weeks. The month of December is finally upon us. Which means it's almost Christmas. And I don't even care. I haven't started decorating, I haven't annoyed my husband by belting out my dirty version of "Carol of the Bells" and I haven't even had a sip of eggnog yet. It's my favorite holiday and I haven't even acknowledged it. But I think I know why. See, depending on your age, the holiday… read more

Commissioners Corner… November good to Ohio and Darke County
The best part of November is when all the political ads are over, all the election rhetoric is finally finished, and all of us can start thinking about Thanksgiving and family. Congratulations to all the local elected officials and continued good fortune in their next terms. The current Commissioners are still intact, and we look forward to working together and continuing the progress that has been done in the last… read more

Over the cliff… or the Grover? By Jim Surber
The U.S. debt ceiling and its surrounding debate was becoming passé, so federal leaders created the “fiscal cliff.” Last year, not wanting to let trivial matters such as the national debt and deficit interfere with their re-election campaigns; the lawmakers and President set a bomb with a time-delayed fuse that has almost reached the explosive charge. Simply put, this is a potentially destructive combination of tax hikes on just about everyone and spending cuts on just… read more

Musings of a Senior Scribe... The Truth and The Goal, By Mona Lease
Hi, all! It's that time of year. Relatives are in town for the holidays, students are home from college, and friends are getting together for vacations. New recipes, games, music, and drinks are the party favorites. I spoke with law enforcement officials from the Darke County Sheriff's Office and the Greenville Police Department. Ohio has no Public Intoxication Law - as such. You may walk down the street legally "drunk." You may not walk… read more

A Modern Day Tale By Lyn Bliss, Assistant Editor
There once was a golden haired, blue-eyed little apple of her parents’ eyes. She was raised knowing she lived in the greatest country in the world and thinking that whatever she wanted to do, if she worked hard enough she would be able to achieve it. She went to school, studied hard and sure enough – she graduated with grades that allowed her to go on to college. Where again, she worked hard, got good grades and graduated at the top of her class. … read more

Broke Wife, Big City… Do your ears hang low? By Aprill Brandon
When I was a kid, I had a penpal. Even better, it was a FOREIGN penpal. Every day after school, I'd run to the mailbox, quivering with anticipation, to see if Penelope's letter had arrived from exotic Canada (where they put gravy on their French fries...GRAVY!). In fact, there were days I was so excited, I'd sit outside and actually wait for the mailman to come. Unfortunately, as I grew older, my enthusiasm for my daily trips to the mailbox… read more

New Teaching Standards: Compartmentalize or “think” deeply?
That’s My Opinion, By Bob Robinson - “The goal is to go from ‘knowing’ something to ‘deeply understanding’ something… it is a totally different way of teaching.” I found that statement fascinating. Dave Shelhaas used it when he told Darke County Chamber of Commerce board members recently about the new standards and accountability set to kick in for Ohio Schools in 2014. Color me naive (again). While I… read more

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Giving Thanks
My mother, a schoolteacher in Mansfield, taught her sons that no matter what our station in life, no one is too important or too busy to serve. This holiday season, I’m grateful for that lesson – and for the example set each day by so many in their communities. And I am most heartened by the sacrifices of hardworking Ohioans who struggle to make ends meet yet still make time to give to others. A couple of years ago, I met an Ohio family who was bagging… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… How to succeed in business without really tweeting, By Aprill Brandon
Wanna know what I've been doing for the past three hours? Heh. No. I wish. You dirty birdie, you. No, sadly, what I've been doing for the past three is hours much less likely to land me in jail. Instead, I've been trying to log into my old LinkedIn account. Unfortunately, since it's been four years since I've actually logged on, none of my old standby passwords ("mrsryanreynolds," "BornAgainJedi," "Boozy_McBoozerson") were working. So, I ended… read more

Tea Party - Republican Party friend or foe? By Dr. Charles & Rebecca Reier
The Tea Party may be serving the Republican Party a poisonous brew by insisting on “no new taxes”. The Middle Class, now including millionaires, has seen their assets decline over the last decade, while the Bush policy of “don’t tax the rich” has billionaires happy. So happy that many, such as George Soros and Warren Buffet, recognize and admit the unfairness. They support increased taxes on high income earners and… read more

Same question-different answers, By Jim Surber
The 2012 Presidential election came and went, though it seemed like an eternity before it was finally over. The residents of battleground Ohio were subjected to countless nasty media ads, repeated irritating phone calls, and enough political junk mail to burn a tobacco bed. The two candidates spent nearly $2 billion, much of it coming from a few very large donors. Ultimately, we ended up with the same GOP-controlled House, the same Democratic-controlled… read more

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Honoring Ohio’s Veterans
On Veterans Day, and every day, we must remember to express our gratitude to the men and women that have served our country in uniform. In a ceremony on Veterans Day, more than 67 years after his service in World War II, North Olmsted resident U.S. Army Corporal (Ret.) Dewey Limpert received a Purple Heart and Bronze Star along with several other overdue medals. After being contacted by Mr. Limpert’s… read more

U.S. Rep. … State leadership, Congressional oversight key to stopping ObamaCare
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Speaker John (R-OH) released the following column discussing Governor John Kasich’s decision to not implement a government-run “exchange” under the president’s health care law and resisting a federal takeover of health insurance regulations in Ohio: “President Obama has won re-election, but his health care law is still driving up costs and making it harder for… read more

Making Lemonade… That’s My Opinion, By Bob Robinson
Inside every cloud is a silver lining. I’ve heard that phrase, or something similar to it, since I was a child. I’d come home from school complaining about something. I’d go to grampa complaining that one of my cousins was mean to me (or sometimes Grampa would give me a tongue-lashing when one of my cousins complained I was mean to him). I’d go to Mom or Gramma with a skinned knee. Or I’d moan around the house if it was raining… read more

State Rep Jim Buchy… Voters Want Smaller Government; So Why Don’t We Listen?
Many days have passed since Election Day, now we have had an opportunity to reflect on the results and strategize our next steps forward. As I traveled the district in the last few months it is clear people want jobs, and they want smaller government that encourages economic growth. I will work to remove the noose that government red tape and bureaucracy have placed over our lives in this state. This week… read more

That’s My Opinion… Obama’s America, By Bob Robinson
“Re: Election stolen. Give it up, Bob. And yes, Taxes are the way to raise revenue. Have a great day.” He’s right about one thing… the election is over. I should give it up. That doesn’t mean, of course, that I will ignore the opinions of others who wish to pontificate over what they think happened. As I indicated in my Editor’s Notes on Monday, I do think it strange that the Republican turnout was supposedly down 10 percent from 2008. Don’t you?… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… Adventures in puppy-sitting, By Aprill Brandon
It is 2:30 on Thursday afternoon. I am sitting at the computer, attempting to type this around my almost 40-pound dog, who is struggling to sit on my not-nearly-big-enough lap. I am still in the sweatpants I slept in, hair in the same messy bun I went to bed in and my face still has the remnants of yesterday’s eyeliner. To my left is an 11-pound puppy who is desperately and energetically trying to also jump on my lap. And to my immediate right… read more

China Trade Issues underlie Local Business Problems, Dr. Charles & Rebecca Reier
Had local business leaders been listening to CNBC Worldwide Exchange between 4:00 and 4:20 am this morning, they would have heard an extensive discussion of the problem of making free trade FAIR TRADE with China. They have missed the prime cause of their business frustrations and a weak economy. They blame partisan issues for the problems they face that are related directly to our two… read more

What happened? That’s My Opinion, By Bob Robinson
Demographics and the ground game happened! Stunned disbelief would probably best sum up the results of Tuesday’s presidential election. Reactions ranged from anger to shock to a decision to shake it off with a wisecrack or joke. “Welcome to the United Socialistic States of America!” I saw an American flag flying upside down at half staff on the way into town Wednesday. I was saddened by the sight. On… read more

Pass the Jobs Bill NOW! By Truman Scott
With the east coast devastated, now is the time to begin putting people back to work re-building our infrastructure. This process could begin on both coasts with one working east while the other works west. We could have a 21st Century “Driving of the Golden Spike” somewhere in the middle of the U.S. when the job is complete. This would immediately begin the lowering the unemployment rate and we could… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… The five stages of panic, By Aprill Brandon
There are a lot of firsts when it comes to marriage. The first time you kiss as husband and wife. The first dance. The first fight. The first time you lose your first fight. The first time you bring back up the original fight a few months later in a vain effort to try to win this time. And, it's inevitable: The first time you lose your wedding ring. Luckily, I managed to make it a whole year and a handful of months before the latter finally happened to me… read more

State Senator Keith Faber… Working Hard for the Citizens of Our District
A Public Servant’s Perspective - Ohio, like most of the nation, has been no stranger to the economic rollercoaster that has spanned the beginning of the 21st Century. Beginning with the recession caused by the warrantless attacks that our nation faced on September 11, 2001 and the recovery that followed, all the way to the sub-prime mortgage crisis and the recession of 2008, Ohioans have been tossed… read more

Romney/Ryan team in Celina… it’s about the jobs, by Kurt Fritsch
After having had the opportunity to attend a rally with Mitt Romney on Oct. 10 in Sydney, Ohio, which was a great event that had drawn a huge number of people, I was informed about a rally on Oct 28 with Paul Ryan in Celina and thought that it might be a good idea to meet him as well. So I signed up online and printed my ticket and was ready for the next political event in this campaign, which hopefully… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… Project Ducky Wip, By Aprill Brandon
This past weekend, my husband left me for four days. Alas, it's not what you're thinking. Although granted, that would make for a much better column, the whole troubled marriage thing and "two people who love each other but grew apart and are trying to find their way back to each other." But no, my stupid husband is perfect. Which makes for very boring writing on my part. In fact, if we ever do get divorced, it's because he's single-handedly… read more

That’s My Opinion… One child at a time, By Bob Robinson
The Darke Knight commented in one of his columns that because I was no longer writing “biting” political rhetoric, he/she thought I’d moved onto other things, or something like that. It was in response to a reader’s comment. Yes and no. While I still have strong opinions about right and wrong, whether it’s in politics or in any other area, time and life-altering events have changed my perspective. Many of you may remember my bout with shingles… read more

Commissioners Corner… Darke County Economic Development Leader
October in Darke County might be the prettiest time of the year. The trees are in full color, and in the mornings, the sun on the fields and foliage is spectacular. We are lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the State. October also brings the cool temperatures of Fall, High School football in full swing, and of course, Halloween. As the year winds down, the Commissioners are wrapping up what we… read more

State Representative Jim Buchy... Ohio District Maps Reflect Democracy, Not Gerrymandering
Once every 10 years, elected officials in Ohio are tasked with re-drawing the maps for congressional, state senate, and state house districts. This process, known as redistricting, has received a lot of attention lately because new maps were drawn last year in response to the results of the 2010 census. As a member of the Ohio redistricting reform task force, I have been closely studying this issue. Several interesting facts about the history of redistricting in Ohio… read more

Things to consider on November 6, By Jana Kolling
My friends, I have a lot to cover so I’ll try to keep this concise. If you are an Obama supporter or undecided, you either think he has done well or if re-elected may do well. Let’s first review some stats from what he has done (with the first 2 years having a Democratic majority in the House and Senate): Number of people on food stamps increases from 32 million to 47 million. 10 million more people on welfare. 1.5 million… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… The Truth About Cats and Dogs, By Aprill Brandon
Owning a dog has a lot of benefits. For instance, you will always know the precise moment the mail comes. You are always well aware of just how good your human food smells considering it has compelled your dog to crawl, military-style, across the floor until they are steathily hidden underneath the table. And you will always know ahead of time the answer to the question "What's that smell?"… read more

Representative Richard Adams… Support Structure Important to Beating Breast Cancer
I am not a doctor, nor do I play one in the newspaper. But nevertheless, I would like to remind you of the importance that the month of October has each year in the medical community. October is “Breast Cancer Awareness Month,” a month centered on increasing acknowledgement and understanding of a disease that affects one in eight women during their lifetimes. In fact, besides skin cancer, breast… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… Love in the frozen food aisle, By Aprill Brandon
There are a lot of ways to get to know your significant other. And let's face it, no matter how much you think you know them, there are always more things you can learn about them. Human beings are vastly complicated creatures. That's why no one has yet been able to explain why we like sodomizing dead birds with other dead birds in the form of turducken or why we willingly inject poison into our faces so we perpetually look… read more

Darke County Commissioner… Comments, I get Comments, By Mike Stegall
Over a month ago I put forth the idea of Darke County looking into the possibility of doing a joint Fire District, or EMA District, or both. I stated that I thought that because of rising costs it might be the time to check into the possibilities. I then asked for people’s comments, good or bad, and to let me know what they thought. Boy, did I get comments! I knew that this was a hot button issue, and that some of the… read more

Biden’s Vaudeville Act, By The Darke Knight
I read E-Bobs comments Friday night following the Biden-Ryan debate. Disgusted is being generous. I vascillated between being ashamed and wanting to throw up. This clown IS the sitting Vice President of the United States of America. On Thursday night he put on a sideshow in a contest discussing crucial topics of national importance. He made faces, ogled the camera, rolled his eyes… read more

Romney Rally in Sidney… Romney Crowds exceed expectations, By Al Bliss
On Wednesday October 10, 2012, I had been scheduled to participate in the phone bank effort located on North Broadway but Cindy Pike offered to take my place and set aside tickets to go to the Rally in Sidney. She convinced me that this was the right thing to do because I would have the opportunity to see my wife who was driving in the Romney motorcade. I rapidly accepted Cindy’s offer and left for Sidney at about… read more

Bad humans! Very bad humans!, By Aprill Brandon Buffy A. Summers Huddle Brandon
Greetings, worthless humans. In case you haven't figured it out yet (which of course you haven't because you're worthless humans), this is not Aprill. The quote, unquote "Alpha" is busy doing stupid human stuff, like actually voluntarily taking a bath and going poo-poo in my giant water bowl. So I, Buffy, her quote, unquote "pet dog," took this opportunity to take over her column. Now mind you, I could have done this at any time during… read more

Are we smarter than I thought? By The Darke Knight
Now isn’t that just too damn convenient! After a disasterous showing against Romney Wednesday night, our president gets a break! Now he can say he brought unemployment below 8%. Lets analyse that for a second (a second is all we need). He FINALLY brought unemployment under 8%. It only took him three and a half years. What really gets me is that 7.8% is nothing to crow about… read more

State Senator Bill Beagle… Matching Workers with Work
As your State Senator, one of the most rewarding things to do is to travel through our district and meet with our neighbors and businesses. This helps me to stay in touch with your needs so that I can effectively represent our community in the Ohio Statehouse. As I make my way across the Miami Valley, the main issue that I hear about is jobs. Whether we are talking about displaced workers or recent college graduates, our… read more

That’s My Opinion… Have we gotten the message yet? By Bob Robinson
Oct. 1, 2012 - Sixty-eight years ago today, I was brought kicking and screaming into a world at war. It was a conflict between two ideologies… German Nazism and its sister Japanese and Italian despots vs Freedom and Independence. According to Wikipedia, WWII resulted in 55 million deaths, the largest and most destructive conflict in history. Fifty years ago today I was a “fish” in the Corps of Cadets at The A&M College of Texas. In a few weeks… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… Let's just table the issue, shall we? By Aprill Brandon
For years, my husband and I have harbored a shameful secret. A secret so hideous, so horrifying, so wholly conducive to alliteration, we have hardly dared to even whisper it out loud. And the worst part is we have carried this secret with us from state to state, apartment to apartment, every time we move, from Ohio to Texas to now Boston. Each time, with each new set of friends and colleagues, our pain and embarrassment only growing… read more

Commissioners Corner… Tying up loose ends
September is almost gone already, High School Football, College, and the N.F.L. are in full swing, temperatures are cooler, and all of our summer festivals are done. With the onset of fall and then the winter season, one would think that things would slow down for us here in the County. Right now, we have a lot of projects in the works, and tying up loose ends is going to be the work for now. We have been… read more

State Representative Adams... Ohio’s Economic Growth Outpacing Nation
Two Miami County businesses recently announced that they are expanding their workforce. West Troy Tool & Machine, Inc. is adding 35 new jobs, as well as boosting its annual payroll by nearly $437,000. Industry Products Co., located in Piqua, has announced the creation of 50 jobs and almost $1.2 million in new annual payroll. Through their work with JobsOhio, these companies were able to secure… read more

It is what it is… By the Darke Knight
I’ve had some interesting responses to my first two columns. The first had to do with Editor Bob. The reader wrote… “I so appreciate Bob's efforts, but I do miss his former "sock-it-to-'um" editorials. Perhaps you are the one to pick up where he left off.” Not sure if that’s a compliment, but I appreciated her saying it. What I told her was that I thought E-Bob was pretty much doing his own thing today… read more

A fundamentally different America, That’s My Opinion By Bob Robinson
“One of our closest allies…” That’s our president speaking, not about our neighbors to the north or south, or maybe England or one of the other European countries. Nope. He’s referring to Israel as “one of” our closest allies in the Middle East. Sure would like to know who else is over there sticking his neck out amidst the riots and flag burnings saying, “I am a close ally of the United States.” Israel is our closest – and in… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… The Zombie Apocalypse is worse than we thought, By Aprill Brandon
I don’t want to alarm anyone, but the fact there has been an influx of news stories about people eating other people’s faces and cooking their roommate’s large intestine with onions and a nice herb butter is the least of our worries. It has come to my attention that this whole looming zombie war has taken on a thoroughly horrifying new turn. It all started last week when upon innocently entering the kitchen, I was assaulted by what can only be… read more

Help a child’s eyes light up, By Bob Robinson
The semester has only just begun and I’ve had the pleasure of working with kindergartners, second, third and fourth graders, high school juniors and seniors and adults in their 20s, 30s and 40s. It’s fascinating to observe the differences – and similarities – in the various age groups. I think I mentioned once that a friend of mine referred to kindergarten students as “popcorn” – they pop up and down as the impulse hits them. The structured environment… read more

Paint a picture of America 50 years from now , By The Darke Knight
“There are 47 percent of the people who will vote for the president no matter what,” Romney states. “All right, there are 47 percent who are with him, who are dependent upon government, who believe that they are victims, who believe the government has a responsibility to care for them, who believe that they are entitled to healthcare, to food, to housing, to you name it.” Wow. Color me astonished. A “true” moment from a politician… read more

Broke Wife, Big City… An open letter to my dishwasher, By Aprill Brandon
I hate you, dishwasher. I hate you so much. Seriously, so much. Like, if you were on fire and I really had to pee, I'd still use the toilet. Because you know what? The toilet doesn't constantly remind me what a failure at housekeeping I am. Sure, it starts to murmur something after too many weeks of neglect but you... oooooh... YOU. There you are, everyday, just sitting there. Needing something. You always need something. Need emptied. Need... read more

Late-night musings… Economic disasters are inevitable, By Jim Surber
Many of us like to have money without effort and like to avoid dealing with debts. It is simple human nature. We know that this attitude can never be sustained, but that knowledge is never strong enough to quash the allure and desire. That is why pyramid schemes, chain letters, and Bernie Madoff-type investments come and go throughout our history. It is always fascinating how so many people continue to become suckers until a key fact is recognized: They... read more

The Beneficiaries of our Actions, That’s My Opinion By Bob Robinson
Ackley, the Community & Lessons to be Learned - “I was showing the frustration… the hard work… trying to get that elusive first win…” said cartoonist and local artist Paul Ackley on Friday. It seems that many members of the community missed his intent. For almost every person who commented on it, there was a different opinion. “I thought it was right on,” said one reader. “The game is about winning. They aren’t... read more

Constitution Day and the Constitution, By Darke County Commissioner Mike Stegall
Today is Constitution day in America. This holiday way established in 2004 with the passage of an amendment by Senator Robert Byrd to the omnibus spending bill of 2004. Before this date, September 17th was known as “Citizenship Day”. In addition to the name change, the act mandates that all publicly funded educational institutions provide education on the history of the American Constitution. In... read more

Reintroducing Aprill, By Bob Robinson
When I stop and think about my journey here in Darke County, Ohio, I sometimes become overwhelmed at how fortunate I’ve been. I sat in the editor’s chair of The Daily Advocate for seven years and led a talented editorial department to many team and personal awards from Associated Press and parent company Brown Publishing. Community support grew to the point where the oft-heard term of Daily Aggrevate my... read more

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Ensuring a Top-Notch Education for All Ohioans
Sen. Brown believes that all Ohioans deserve access a top-notch education. That’s why he has fought to promote early education, ensure strong standards for public education, and improve college affordability. Investing in Early Education… Helped secure nearly $70 million for Ohio in early childhood grant funding from the Race to the Top Early Learning Challenge; Authored the Ready Schools Act to ensure all schools are prepared to meet the needs of all... read more

That’s My Opinion… Do you want to make a difference?, By Bob Robinson
The two individuals who had the most to do with my introduction to substitute teaching at Woodland Heights Elementary – Susie Riegle and Tammy Stritenburger – have moved on. But they left an indelible mark on my life. They introduced me to the beauty and challenges of spending the day with a group of five-, six- and seven-year-olds. Last year I was nervous. I wasn’t sure I could handle it. Not only did I handle... read more

ORP Chairman Bob Bennett… Strickland Should Apologize
COLUMBUS - Today, in response to Ted Strickland's attacks on Josh Mandel to the Ohio DNC delegation, Ohio Republican Party Chairman Bob Bennett said Ted Strickland is simply trying to deflect attention from his failure as Chairman of the DNC platform writing committee. "Last time I checked it's the voters who decide what candidate is fit for office. The voters of Ohio fired Ted in 2010 and hired Josh Mandel... read more

Will the “Great American Experiment” survive? That’s My Opinion, By Bob Robinson
The conventions are over; the latest jobs report shows yet another devastating month for jobs. The Economic Populist says that although it fluctuates some from month to month, we need a little over 100,000 new jobs a month just to keep up with population growth. In August we posted 91,000. Yet the national unemployment rate dropped from 8.3 percent to 8.1 percent. If I remember right, that’s 43 straight months of... read more

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Standing Up for Ohio Seniors
As a father and a grandfather, I believe we must do everything we can to improve the economy and reduce the deficit for our children and grandchildren. But the way to do this is not at the expense of Medicare and Social Security benefits that seniors have earned. Some politicians in Washington refer to Social Security and Medicare as entitlements. I don’t use that word—simply because they’re not. They are programs that... read more

Take the Easy Way Out, By The Darke Knight
Whoa!! If you are reading this, it means I finally got to Editor Bob. I’ve been reading “his” site for the past year and haven’t seen him mention one single word about all the columns I’ve sent him that he has refused to publish. Too edgy, he said. Or he doesn’t want County News Online embroiled in a lawsuit. Or I’ve crossed the line. Or whatever!! Well maybe it’s damn well time for someone to... read more

Fuzzy Math is Alive & Well, That’s My Opinion By Bob Robinson
I was watching a talk/interview show on Fox last weekend. My schedule permits about a half hour at night, and about a half hour early in the morning when I wake up. Weekday choices are usually WHIO. Weekend choices are usually the Fox channel. I was astonished to hear a Dem strategist tout Obama’s creation of millions of jobs during his time in office while the Bush administration devastated millions of... read more

Concerns about Aflatoxin in Ohio Corn, By Sam Custer, OSU Extension Educator
Last week I attended a meeting that discussed Aflatoxin in our 2012 corn crop. As of today, there have been no reports of aflatoxin affected corn being delivered to our local receipt points. But given our unusual year and an upcoming harvest of a very distressed crop I would like to share with you an update from The Ohio State University Extension and Pierce Paul, Associate Professor. Cereal Pathology, Epidemiology. There have been a few reports of Aspergillus ear rot in corn in... read more

Ohio Sec of State Jon Husted… Voting Will Be Uniform and Accessible for Hard-Working Ohioans
Labor Day marks the official end of summer and gives us an opportunity to celebrate the enduring American work ethic. It also means the election season is in full swing. This year, I am proud of the steps we are taking in each of the state’s 88 counties to ensure busy schedules won’t keep hard-working Ohioans from participating. In fact, starting on October 2, you can vote any hour of the day and without ever leaving your homes. Just after the Labor Day... read more

Farm Science Review Approaches, By Sam Custer
Farm Science Review – September 18-20, 2012, London, Ohio - Throughout its history, Ohio State University’s Farm Science Review has been at the forefront of showcasing the future of agriculture. The review will be celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Plan on attending now. Tickets and golf cart rental information can be picked up in the OSU Extension, Darke County, office between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. For detailed information on the Farm Science Review, go tohttp://fsr.osu.edu/... read more

U.S. Representative John … Mitt Romney’s the “Perfect Guy at the Perfect Time” for America
In an interview with FOX News’ Bret Baier at the Republican National Convention, Speaker John said Governor Romney has a “real record of producing jobs,” making him “the perfect guy at the perfect time” for families and small businesses struggling in President Obama’s economy. also touted Paul Ryan and efforts by House Republicans to remove government barriers to job growth and stop the president’s small business tax hike... read more

That’s My Opinion... Our American Uniqueness, By Bob Robinson
Every year I look forward to the Great Darke County Fair as the premier event of the year. I scratch my head in wonder when I run into someone who says they don’t (or won’t) go to the fair. Why? Dunno. Burned out, I guess. Same ole’ same ole’… whatever! Maybe it’s because I’m a “furiner and a snake in the grass” (once coined by a local official a few years ago) and have only been fortunate enough to be around for the last dozen years... read more

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Stop Sending Calls and Jobs Overseas
If you’ve had to call a major company for a service repair or to get an answer to a question about your cable bill, chances are you’ve probably spoken with a worker in a different time zone or on a different continent. That’s because big companies have been shipping U.S. call center jobs overseas for years. But when these companies send call center jobs abroad, they don’t just frustrate consumers—they hurt our economy as... read more

Darke County Commissioner Mike Stegall… Is Now the Time?
Several months ago at my “Coffee with the Commissioner” gathering at New Madison, I mentioned that someday I thought Darke County would have to take a look at going to a joint Fire district, and then maybe a joint EMS district, or both. This was me just thinking out loud in light of the current and future economic conditions. Believe it or not, we elected officials do think once in a while! I indicated that I would like to put a committee together to... read more

Commissioner’s Corner… Record crowds at the fair; great weather
The Great Darke County Fair is underway and with the cooler temperatures and perfect weather, it seems as if the Fair could be in for record crowds. Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves, and as of this writing, there have been very few incidents to report, and so far, nothing major. It seems as though we have a lot more visitors from in state and out of state this year... read more

Drought Continues to Affect Agriculture in Western Ohio, By Sam Custer
OSU Extension, Darke County - While visiting with area farmers and agriculture businesspersons at the great Darke County Fair this week it is clear that we are looking at many surprises this fall. Reported silage yields ranged from 7 to 19 tons per acre ranging from 35% to 90% of normal yields. These variations in yields can be found within a couple of miles of each other. For those of you who are trying to determine your possible soybean yield this fall I share with you this piece of information... read more

How would the City pay for Medics? By Bob Rhoades
Comparing Apples to Apples, Part 2 - In the August 23 edition of the County News Online I wrote an article concerning Rod Hale’s suggestion that city council visit other cities with comparable fire departments citing Sidney and Celina. I actually found out since then that although it was attributed to him, it wasn’t his idea. I related that was an excellent idea as we finally would be able to compare Apples... read more

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown... Ensuring Ohio Workers Can Compete
More than 200 days ago, the Senate passed a bipartisan jobs bill that could create or save two million jobs at no cost to taxpayers. Yet, the House of Representatives has refused to consider this common-sense legislation. Now is the time for the House of Representatives to act. The bill addresses one of the biggest challenges facing Ohio manufacturers – unfair competition from Chinese products that are flooding our... read more

Representative Richard Adams… State’s Job-Search Website is a Valuable Resource
If you have been actively looking for a job recently, you may have heard of the website OhioMeansJobs.com. If not, then I encourage you to check it out. The site is a great resource for employers and jobseekers alike to find what they are looking for in the jobs market. This service has been introduced in other states as well, the Ohio version has existed for a couple years. It is becoming especially relevant now that the... read more

Republican National Convention… Living my Dream, Part 2, By Lyn Bliss
Email. What did we ever do without it?? Wish I would have started keeping track of all the emails I have received and sent regarding the Republican National Convention. Well, maybe I don’t want to know… Things are progressing. No, let me make that ‘they are flying’! The date of departure seems to be coming toward me like a speeding bullet. The list of things to do seems to grow and apprehension has set in... read more

Apples to Apples: A firmly entrenched EMS system, By Bob Rhoades
Rod Hale’s admonishment to compare Greenville to Sidney and Celina in the recent Daily Advocate article is a welcome thought. Finally we’re comparing apples to apples, well almost! Like always if we hang around long enough, a good idea pops up. If and when the committee goes to Sidney, the first thing they’ll see is one of the firefighters that Greenville hired first. He left and went to Sidney because he said... read more

Volunteer Fire Departments…corrections and verifications By Bob Robinson
Last week I posted an opinion from a reader on the City of Greenville / Greenville Fire Department issue. Due to the individual’s name recognition in the community, he requested I not use it. I checked a couple of the items he sent; was satisfied; and published. Big mistake. It seems there were errors. They were quickly pointed out to me. I made the decision to publish the opinion… my responsibility. I accept it. Since then, the individual has.... read more

Volunteer Fire Departments… really? By Bob Rhoades
A faithful CNO Reader’s article on Volunteer Fire Departments was very good, not real accurate, but good. I actually sat down and researched the departments he listed. Here is what I found and the citation for each. 1. Pasadena, TX - It is the largest Volunteer Dept. 2. Alexandria, VA - Key sentence on the first page of their webpage: Today, the department employs more than 250 professional personnel... read more

A Second look at the Vicious Cycle, By Bob Rhoades
Vicious Cycle Part 2
The possible Greenville City layoffs
The announcement last week of possible layoffs in the city employee ranks has stirred the ire of a few people. Others who can remember back longer than six months have pushed a couple of questions... read more

And the Vicious Cycle begins, By Bob Rhoades
The city of Greenville’s ill-advised decision to lay off fire department personnel and cripple the ability of the Fire Department to defend the city from fire is just the beginning of a vicious cycle that, once started, will be hard to stop. Total proposed reductions in the fire department budget are $382,896. This includes the elimination of the Asst. Chief Position, 4 firefighters and the Secretary... read more

The other side of the story... A different perspective on the Greenville Fire Department issue
Editing and Comments by Bob Robinson - One of the things I love about an online news and information service is it is not limited to a regimented format. I received a letter from a reader regarding the City of Greenville Fire Department issue. After reading it I felt it deserved more prominence than that of a letter to the editor. It was sent prior to Bob Rhoades’ column being posted, so it was not in response to his... read more

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Connecting Veterans with New Employment Opportunities
Ohio is home to more than 890,000 veterans, making our state the nation’s sixth-largest population of veterans. Despite their service, an unacceptably high number of veterans struggle to find work. Just as we invest in our servicemembers while they’re on the battlefield, we should do the same when they return home. That’s why it’s imperative that we do a better job of connecting veterans with the support... read more

Obama's great quest, By Bob Robinson
Well, it was bound to happen. It took nearly 19 months of online publication seven days a week, but my poor old computer finally rebelled. She will be getting an internal face lift today. It will take a couple days to get back to normal, but we'll be back on track shortly. That, however, is not the reason for this opinion piece. Romney's pick of Paul Ryan as his V.P. running mate is. Talk about an energized base... Read More. More Opinion.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown... Fighting for Ohio’s Farms
There’s a lot that farmers can plan for: the type of crops to grow, how much acreage those crops will cover, and when to pick those crops. But this year, a widespread drought has left many Ohio farmers with an unplanned disaster: fields dry as a bone and minimal yields. According to the United States Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service, Ohio and most of the U.S. are in the midst of the most... read more

Mitt Romney Press... Memorandum: Obama For America Ohio Lawsuit
August 5, 2012 - On July 17, 2012, Obama for America and the Democratic National Committee filed suit against the Attorney General and Secretary of State of Ohio. In their lawsuit, the Obama campaign and the DNC argue it is “arbitrary” and unconstitutional to provide three extra days of early, in-person voting to military voters and their families. At least 20 times in their legal papers, they argue that there is no good... read more

New GTI facility in Winchester… Exploring outside the fort… am I missing something?
By Bob Rhoades - Bill LaFramboise, the executive vice president of GTI in Greenville, in a recent press release by Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels said “This new plant is needed (in Anderson, Ind.) due to capacity limitations and a tight labor market in Greenville, Ohio,” If you look on CityData.com, it says Greenville has an unemployment rate of around 10%. The loss of 325 jobs to Anderson... read more

Congressman John … On July Unemployment: “Private Sector still isn’t ‘doing fine’”
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John (R-West Chester) released the following statement regarding the Department of Labor’s unemployment report for July 2012: “Two years after the Obama administration declared, ‘welcome to the recovery,’ this much is clear: with 42 consecutive months of unemployment above eight percent, the private sector still isn’t ‘doing fine’ and President Obama’s economic plan... read more

What’s Not to Like? That’s My Opinion, By Bob Robinson
As the final comments, commentary and opinion filter in from Annie Oakley Days and the community begins to prep for The Great Darke County Fair, I thought about the trials, tribulations and successes of past Annie Oakley celebrations and how they relate to seemingly similar concerns today. I find it fascinating that people are still talking about the demise of the Annie Oakley Days Festival... read more

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown... Addressing Wrongful Foreclosures
If you’re one of the thousands of Ohio families who has experienced the pain of losing your home to a wrongful foreclosure, help could finally be on the way. But you must act quickly. Before the reports of widespread foreclosure fraud two years ago, Ohio had 14 consecutive years of increased foreclosures. Then, we discovered that many of the biggest banks in the country simply didn’t follow the law and give people... read more

Senator Bill Beagle... Online Employment Tool a Winner for Job Seekers and Employers
With unemployment at a four-year low and the addition of 111,300 new jobs since January of last year, Ohio’s economic outlook is much brighter now than in recent years. A cornerstone to this progress has been the attraction of outside businesses to our state and the new opportunities that they bring. However, even with numerous new avenues for employment, searching for a job can prove to be a daunting... read more

Commissioners Corner… County to get $46K, first check from casinos
It is hard to believe that as this is written, Annie Oakley Days, The Gathering at Garst, and the Great Darke County Fair are just around the corner. On Sunday, July 22nd, the Elected Officials attended the North Star parade, and then later, competed in a “Family Feud” contest. The “Politicians,” (as we were called) consisted of Scott Zumbrink, Jim Surber... read more

Congressman John … House action to curb excessive regulations, stop small business tax hike - WASHINGTON, D.C. – At a weekly press conference with Republican leaders today, Congressman John (R-West Chester) highlighted this week’s House vote to curb excessive government regulations and next week’s vote to stop the small business tax hike – both part of Republicans’ relentless focus on helping the private sector grow and create jobs. As Congressman noted... read more

State Senator Keith Faber… Job Growth Continues to Reshape Western Ohio
Ohio’s economic comeback showed no sign of slowing down in recent months as our state added a total of 38,000 new jobs between May and June. In the past year, companies have added more than 100,000 jobs in Ohio and have played a vital role in our unemployment level dropping to its lowest point since September 2008. In fact, for the first time since January 1995, Ohio’s unemployment rate (7.2 percent... read more

The Business Journals... 4 reasons why “you didn’t build that” still haunts Obama, by Kent Hoover
Friday, July 20, 2012 - It’s been a week since President Barack Obama made a remark that’s been haunting him ever since: “If you’ve got a business -- you didn’t build that. Somebody else made that happen.” Many business owners felt insulted by this remark, despite attempts to explain the context. Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney spent the week hammering Obama over this statement. He drove... read more

Ohio Representative Jim Buchy… Let’s Celebrate at the County Fair
Late summer is one of my favorite times of the year because it’s when we get to celebrate the accomplishments of our local farmers and the agricultural community at our county fairs. The counties in West Central Ohio will each be holding their county fairs over the coming weeks, and I’m looking forward to attending them all, as each fair offers unique and exciting attractions. During the months of July and August, we... read more

Serving the sentiments of the people who elected them, That’s My Opinion By Bob Robinson
A strange thing happened Tuesday night at the Greenville City Council Public Hearing for Trilogy Health Care. Despite overwhelming public support for the company’s plan to move Village Green from its current land-locked location on Chestnut Street to 6.41 acres, vacant for years, at Russ Road and Hwy 121, a motion to prepare legislation for it barely passed. It took a “yea” vote by... read more

Senator Sherrod Brown… Job Opportunities for Ohio’s Veterans
Servicemembers – already armed with the discipline and skills needed to strengthen the 21st century economy – should not have to struggle to find a job when their military service ends. These heroes who fought for our country shouldn’t have to fight for work when they come home. And yet, unfortunately many do. As citizens, we have a responsibility to do something about the thousands of older veterans who are jobless... read more

U.S. Representative John … Obama Tax Hike threatens jobs
Ernst & Young Study: President Obama’s Small Business Tax Hike Threatens More Than 700,000 Jobs - WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman (R-West Chester) released the following statement today regarding a new study by independent accounting firm Ernst & Young that shows President Obama’s small business tax hike will destroy more than 700,000 American jobs: “This Ernst & Young... read more

The Heritage Network… Obama’s Gutting of Welfare Reform Is Illegal
Todd Gaziano and Robert Alt - July 16, 2012 - Editor’s Note: I voted for the Republican Majority who made this welfare reform requirement part of the Contract with America in 1996. I am incensed and outraged that any sitting president or his administration would take it upon themselves to blatantly over-ride the requirements of a law written and passed by the Legislative arm... read more

Ohio Representative Richard Adams… Guarding Public Money from Private Purposes
Debates over campaign finance laws date back to the beginning of the 20th century when Teddy Roosevelt was running for president. Most of these debates over time have focused on the issue of limiting campaign contributions and increasing transparency. Regardless of where you stand on those issues, just about everyone can agree that taxpayer money should not be funneled into campaign activity. On June... read more

Huff Post... Mitt Romney Bain Mess Shows Stonewalling Consequences
07/13/2012 - WASHINGTON -- It takes perverse talent to turn a two-day mini-story into a major three-week distraction. But that is precisely what Mitt Romney’s campaign has done with a June 21 story in the Washington Post. As a result, they’re losing valuable media time playing defense when they should be using every waking second and news cycle to remind voters about how crappy the economy is and why... read more

Market Commentary, By Art Cashin, Prepared by UBS Financial Services Inc.
The Obamacare Decision - We had originally intended to explore the scholarly give and take of both the opinion and of the dissent. Both have marvelous allusions to things like the Federalist papers and “original intent”. A full reading is like a visit to the mind gym, a mental workout of the first order. We were also hoping to revisit the original Marbury vs. Madison decision, which we write about every... read more

Education: Colleges should pay kids; kids pay employers, That’s My Opinion By Bob Robinson
I’m a criminal and didn’t know it. That’s what I found out on “Stossel” on Fox Saturday night. Actually, I saw the first 20 minutes as I was winding down to go to sleep… then I saw the first 20 minutes again when I woke up at 5 a.m. I never see a full program any more… it’s usually 15-20 minutes before I go to sleep and 15-20 minutes while I wake up enough to start my morning coffee. I digress. I’m a criminal because I use... read more

Dayton Business Journal... McGregor: A New Outlook on Job Creation in Ohio
by Ohio Rep. Ross McGregor, Guest Column - Monday, July 9, 2012 - Job creation is an ongoing process, one that requires sustained efforts and innovative approaches. This fact has been reflected in the work of the 129th Ohio General Assembly since the very start of our current legislative session. We have passed numerous bills to benefit Ohio’s businesses, promote economic recovery and grow our job market. Beginning... read more

Obama has taken the economy to a new low, That’s My Opinion By Bob Robinson
Obama: Governor Romney exported American jobs to China. “He’s not the solution. He’s the problem.” At best, it’s a tremendous stretch of the truth; at worst it’s simply a lie. The reference is to Romney’s affiliation with Bain Capital, an investment company that looks for strong investments worldwide, including American companies such as Staples. Nowhere could I find any verifiable information that Bain... read more

Congressman John … Independence Day Tribute... “Here’s to the Spirit of ‘76”
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John (R-West Chester), in a message recorded in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol, marks Independence Day by paying tribute to the Declaration of Independence, the brave patriots who conceived it, and the sacrifices that have been made to preserve freedom and liberty: “If you’re like me, when you enter the Capitol Rotunda, your eyes are drawn to Trumbull’s depiction of the Declaration of Independence. And why not? It’s humbling to stop and think... read more

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Exporting American Products, Not American Jobs
There’s an old cliché that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, and expecting different results. Well, if that’s the case, then our trade policy represents insanity. Though NAFTA was signed nearly two decades ago, a trade deal with China was inked about a dozen years ago, and CAFTA was signed some seven years ago, we still haven’t seen any change. The time for a new direction... read more

The Community Independence Day Parade, That’s My Opinion By Bob Robinson
I vaguely remember seeing an occasional fireworks display when I was a kid… they weren’t that big in the 50s. It was usually a neighborhood project. The celebrations I remember most were in Lincoln, Nebraska when I was in junior high. We would block off our street for square dancing (and other “square” stuff, like barbeque and beer; and pop, sparklers, cherry bombs and snakes for the kids), divide... read more

State Representative Richard Adams... Commemorating Our Independence Day
As June begins to wrap up, it won’t be long before the citizens of the 79th Ohio House District put on red, white and blue attire and hang stars and stripes from their homes. The patriotic spirit this time of year is contagious, building up to our nation’s Independence Day on July 4th. Apple pie, cookouts, firework displays, parades—there are so many traditions that we associate with the Fourth of July. It is a time for family, fun and community, and, this year,... read more

State Representative Jim Buchy... A Celebration of American Freedom
July 4th has always been a very special day for me personally, and for all true Americans. It is a day for barbeques, family, fireworks, and of course, patriotism. It is a day to celebrate the freedoms we have as Americans and also to look back proudly over the history of our great nation. On July 4th, 1776, the Second Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence. By doing so, The United States of America declared its independence... read more

State Senator Keith Faber... Taking on the Threat of Human Trafficking
The spring season was a busy time for the General Assembly as state lawmakers took up a full slate of bills before entering the summer. Reforms focused on education, job growth, energy development and government efficiency took center stage at the Statehouse in recent months, and I am happy to report that Ohio’s economic success continues to pick up steam. While a great deal of our work is aimed at alleviating... read more

Protecting the people from their choices, That’s My Opinion By Bob Robinson
The most controversial issue of the Obama Administration is the Affordable Care Act that was recently upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court. There are other regulations coming out of Washington that are equally destructive, but this one has been in the limelight since ex-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said “I guess we’ll find out what’s in it after we pass it.” Now we know what’s in it. To set the record straight, I believe as... read more

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Hunger Doesn’t Take a Summer Vacation
More than 840,000 children in Ohio depend on school for more than an education. For children living well-below the poverty line, schools also provide a dependable source of food and nutrition. During the school year, more than 840,000 Ohio children receive nutrition assistance through free or reduced-price school lunches. So what happens to these children during the summer months? While critical lifelines – providing... read more

Commissioners Corner... Darke County the place to locate and grow
Summer is in full swing in Darke County now. Once again, it is hot and humid, the children are out of school, and vacation time is just around the corner for most people. It is hard to believe, but the Great Darke County Fair is less than 2 months away! Where has the time gone? Time is moving forward in the Commissioner’s Office also. By the time this is printed... read more

So many talents in so many areas, That’s My Opinion By Bob Robinson
I’ve been privileged in my personal and professional life. Not many people can say they have two great families, some good friends, a wide range of experiences, retired from a job he loved only to replace it with another “job” he loves and the unique experience of sharing his knowledge (and the mistakes to avoid) with younger generations. Recently I attended two graduation parties. I’d had several... read more

Speaker Press Office... Rep. Bill Cassidy, M.D. on Jobs & Repealing ObamaCare
June 22, 2012 - Delivering the Weekly Republican Address, Rep. Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) discusses Republicans’ focus on jobs and fully repealing the president’s health care law, which is making our economy worse by driving up costs and making it harder for small businesses to hire new workers. “Unless the Court throws out the entire law,” Dr. Cassidy says, “we should repeal what is left and implement common-sense, step-by-step... read more

State Representative Richard Adams... Ohio Pension Reform Requires Adequate Information
The issue of pension reform is in need of attention in Ohio. As a recent Time magazine article pointed out, pension liabilities are now 35 percent of the state’s GDP. Ohio’s taxpayers, active members, and retirees rely on a comprehensive solution. While a quick solution would be ideal in everyone’s minds, it must also be done right. An actuarial study is currently being conducted by the Ohio Retirement Council (ORC)... read more

U.S. Congressman John ... Republicans Relentlessly Focused on Jobs
WASHINGTON, D.C. – At his weekly press briefing, Congressman John (R-West Chester) highlighted today’s House vote on the Domestic Energy & Jobs Act, next month’s vote to stop the small business tax hike, and Republicans’ commitment to repeal ObamaCare in its entirety – all part of the continuing focus on helping the private sector create jobs. Congressman also discussed operation Fast & Furious... read more

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown... Farm Policy that’s Better for Farmers, Fairer to Taxpayers
With one in seven Ohio jobs connected to agriculture, it’s obvious just how vital farming is to our state. That’s one of the reasons I’m honored to represent our state’s farmers, ranchers, and rural communities as Ohio’s first senator on the Agriculture Committee in more than four decades. Over the last year, as part of my “Grown in Ohio” listening tour, I’ve had the opportunity to hear directly from farmers, business leaders... read more

Take the fox from the henhouse? By Jim Surber
The upcoming November ballot will be so overcrowded that many Ohio voters may just give up instead of having to make so many choices. This fall, Ohio voters will choose the President, a U.S. Senator, some State Senators, every U.S. and state House member, two state Supreme Court justices, and a long list of county and local officials. If that isn’t enough, they also will be faced with a growing number of state and... read more

A Nice Place to Visit, By Mike Stegall, Darke County Commissioner
Recently, I completed my “Bucket List” golf trip to Scotland and Ireland with my wife Rosemary and our friends, the Breadens. We all had a great time, saw some wonderful sights, and tried some new things that I never thought I would. Have you ever heard of the Scottish national dish called “haggis?” Haggis is basically the innards of a sheep, cooked in a sheep’s stomach for about 4 hours. I know it sounds... read more

State Senator Bill Beagle... Father’s Day Reflections
My first year and a half as a state senator has been a whirlwind education on some of the toughest issues facing our state and the intricacies of the legislative process. This Father’s Day, as I pour coffee into my “World’s Best Dad” mug and begin breakfast with my wife and three children, I reflect upon one of the toughest issues threatening the future: the growing absence of fathers in our children’s lives. It is important to first recognize the many men who take the responsibility of being a father... read more

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown... Fighting for Fair Pay
Ohioans work hard, and I believe their hard work deserves fair pay, regardless of gender. But today in Ohio, women earn just 85 cents to every dollar a man makes. According to the Joint Economic Committee, that earnings gap means over the course of their working lives, women lose more than $400,000. That’s unconscionable. Nearly fifty years ago, Congress passed and President John F. Kennedy... read more

State Senator Bill Beagle... A Special Father’s Day Message
Video - As families across Ohio prepare to celebrate Father’s Day this Sunday, State Senator Bill Beagle (R - Tipp City) recently took a moment to discuss how his role on the Ohio Commission on Fatherhood, and past experience as a stay-at-home Dad, has motivated him to work on behalf of Ohioans and provide our state’s children with a future filled with opportunity. Senator Beagle’s Father... read more

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown... Ensuring Veterans Get the Care They Need
Last month, our country observed Memorial Day, a day when we take the time to remember the servicemembers who sacrificed their lives for our country. In remembering the servicemembers who paid the ultimate price for their nation, we should also express our gratitude by honoring the veterans with us today and making sure they have access to good-paying jobs and are receiving the veterans’ benefits they’ve earned... read more

Communication requires two, That’s My Opinion By Bob Robinson
In a perfect world, government functions much like a business… a not-for-profit business. Shareholders or board members (taxpayers) hire (elect) executives (public officials) to lead the organization (government entity). They expect full disclosure of all actions and moneys spent, then determine if those actions are appropriate and in compliance with their expectations. If they are, all is well. If they aren’t, the “employers... read more

A Bird in the Hand… Welcome Trilogy with Open Arms, By Bob Robinson
There’s this tract of land on the north side of Russ Road, sandwiched between State Hwy 121 and Kitchen Aid Way, that’s been vacant ever since I can remember and I’ve been here for 11 years. According to Dustin Leis, Leis Realty, it’s been vacant even longer than that. He’s been trying to sell it for 15 years. He added that it was on the market before he took over. No one... read more

State Representative Jim Buchy... BWC Reform Efforts
Why Getting Ohioans Back to Work Boosts Our Economy? In the past two years, we have been working in Ohio to lower the costs of doing business and promote job growth. Thus far, we have successfully reduced taxes on family business owners, and turned the job of attracting new businesses over to the private sector, where less red tape and bureaucracy will allow Ohio to compete against other states for companies... read more

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