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Sticks and Stones, By Kate Burch
Living or working on today’s college campus must be, for one who is not
a member of a protected group, something like navigating a mine
field. One may, while totally lacking malevolent intent, commit a
“microaggression” or otherwise be guilty of insulting or disparaging,
or even “harassing” another by simply offering a compliment or
remarking... read
more.
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Social Media: A Good Thing or a Bad Thing?
By Jonathan Holman, Edison DCC Comp 1 Student - Social media is one of
the most argued subjects of today. From parents, teachers, and
reporters, to kids, students, and entertainers. It seems as though
everyone has a strong opinion on the subject in one way or another. But
this is all recent. The concept of social media has been around for
centuries. It wasn’t until now that people are starting to question its
methods... read
more.
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Start Talking! Know! To Interact with Tact with these
Smartphone Tips!
12/14/2016 - Is your son or daughter among the many youth begging for a
smartphone this holiday season? And are you among the many parents
considering the buy? Smartphones certainly have their advantages. The
number one reason parents cite for purchasing their child’s first
cellphone is that it provides location tracking and makes it easier to
communicate... read
more.
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After School Program at Edison… Making a Difference in the World,
Jim Kildow, Edison Student Volunteer - I have put in over 60 hours at
the afterschool program. As a result I like to consider myself fairly
knowledgeable about the mechanics of the program – how it works, why it
works, and what needs fixing. Originally I had assumed this option for
the final was provided only as an easy way to get more tutors for the
program. By the end of my first day... read
more.
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After School Program at Edison… The Program a Positive Reinforcement to the
Students,
By Samantha Buchy, Edison Student Volunteer - The after school program
was a great addition to our schools, and our students. This program was
designed to open a free after school program for students, which
provided tutoring and companionship for these young students. The
workers help the students with homework or understanding new lessons. I
feel like... read
more.
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After School Program at Edison… This Program has Rededicated my Commitment
to Learning,
By Courtney Toops, Edison Student Volunteer - The program in my opinion
was effective throughout the weeks. I think the children began to have
fun learning, made new friends, learned respect. Some of the students
are less than eager to leave when being told they are being picked up.
The age group is appropriate as well, since K-4th...
read
more.
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After School Program at Edison… This may change their future,
By Seth Phillippi, Edison Student Volunteer - I believe I have made a
good choice in choosing to do the after school program. This is one of
the best ways I can spend my free time. I enjoy coming and helping the
kids. I am thinking about helping out even after the semester is over.
I think the after school program has a good benefit from being in
communication class. I have used my own critical thinking during... read
more.
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After School Program at Edison… A Valuable Experience I’ll need later in
Life,
By Makenzie Stucky, Edison student volunteer - I feel as if I have
gained valuable skills that will benefit me later in life through
helping with this program. As I plan to be a teacher I believe that
this experience has been very valuable to me because it has shown me
some of the things I will have to deal with when I do become a teacher.
I think it was extra valuable because... read
more.
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After School Program at Edison… Helping kids become better students,
By Bryce Filbrun, Edison Student Volunteer - I have gained a lot from
participating in the after school program. By participating in the
program, I have gained a lot of respect for my parents. I have learned
that my parents have raised me in a way that I respect my schooling and
my grades. I have learned how to be more patient. When working with the
little kids, you have to be... read
more.
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After School Program at Edison… An experience I’ll remember forever,
By Kinsey Goins, Edison Student Volunteer - The After School Program
was a very unique, fulfilling, and satisfying experience. At first I
wasn't sure if I was going to like the program since I didn't know any
of the kids, or have any previous experience working in that type of
environment. All of the Edison core values were used over the course of
my participation in the program... read
more.
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State Rep. Jim Buchy … To the Residents of the 84th House
District, Farewell
As the year and my term of office wind down, I want to take a minute to
thank you for the privilege of serving in the Ohio House of
Representatives for 24 years. There is no better place in which to live
than west-central Ohio. We have the best families, schools, and places
to work. A very high percentage of our families have a strong belief in
God and are active in... read
more.
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Tips to
make the holidays happy and bright—and safe
(Dec.22, 2016) — According to the song, this is the most
wonderful time of the year. It’s also one of the busiest—and most
dangerous. With last-minute gifts to buy, social events to attend and
family and friends to visit, there are a lot of distractions that may
keep you from having that wonderful time. So the American Red Cross is
offering 12 health and... read
more.
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Commissioner’s Corner… Merry Christmas
And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from
Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing
was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be
taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from
Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of
David... read
more.
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Edison State Community College… Giving back to the community,
By Shayna Emrick, Edison Student Volunteer - I have chosen to do the
After School Program at Edison. It is very valuable to me. I have
always valued knowledge and school, so this program is an excellent way
to get me involved with the community more. Also, there are benefits
from every side. The volunteer benefits from the satisfaction of giving
back to the community and making... read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… Dear Virginia, where the hell is Santa
Claus? By Aprill Brandon
There’s a famous (at least for me) story from my childhood where I
looked at my mom one day and just bluntly said “Santa Claus isn’t real,
is he?” “No, he’s not, sweetie,” my mom replied. And that was that. But
the famous (infamous) part came next. Because I went to school the
following day and felt it was my duty to kindly inform several of my
fellow 2nd... read
more.
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Representative Jim Buchy… Celebrating the Christmas Spirit
‘Tis the season for Christmas trees, holiday wreaths, gifts, and
enjoying the company of our loved ones as we sit by the fire. But most
importantly, Christmas is a time to join together to celebrate Christ’s
birth. In the hustle and bustle of shopping and decorating Christmas
trees, we often forget the true meaning of the holiday and the faith
upon which our nation was built... read
more.
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Empowering After School Program… Some are great; some are little rascals,
By Cade McGlinch, Edison Volunteer - The After School Program is a
program to help students with their homework after school. I
learned many things from various kids during the program. I also
thought that there were a few things that could have gone better.
Some kids were great; on the other hand, some kids were little
rascals. One of the things that I learned from...
read
more.
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Start Talking! Know! To Safeguard Your Home for the
Holidays
12/8/2016 - You happily agreed to host this year’s holiday gathering.
You have the house beautifully decorated, the dinner table is set, and
your many guests are arriving. You have everything in place and your
celebration appears to be nicely unfolding, as planned. But what about
the young lady who just disappeared into the upstairs bathroom, where... read
more.
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Empowering After School Program… Tiny smiles when something ‘clicks’,
By Madisyn Pieper, Edison Volunteer - I completed over 24 hours of
volunteering for the After School Program. During that time I had some
great conversations and moments with the children. In reflection I wish
that I could have given more time to the program but it was hard to
find time while being a full time college student with two jobs. In my
personal opinion I believe... read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… I don’t know if I can do this,
By Aprill Brandon
Raising babies is wonderful work. It’s also hard. But mostly, it’s
extremely isolating. Which is why last week, when it all just became
too much, I decided to scream my frustration out into the void. What
with this being 2016, the void meant I took to my Facebook page and
furiously scribbled out the following: “Today I cried into my son’s
peanut butter sandwich. There’s no punchline. I was crying so hard... read
more.
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Empowering After School Program… The experience has been an eye-opener,
By Mac Kirk, Edison Volunteer -- Choosing the After School Program for
my communications final gave me great trepidation. I understood that
participating in a community service activity would be beneficial on my
resume, but then there were the little people. I had zero experience
with children and it gave me anxiety to think about the prospect.
Growing up, I dealt with one older brother. I have no first cousins... read
more.
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After School Program benefits students,
teachers and parents,
By Macy Godown, Edison Volunteer - The value of The After School
Program is significant. Students who may not have gone home and done
their homework in previous years are now getting home in the evenings
with all their work already completed. This is not only beneficial to
the students, but also to the teachers who now have students completing
their work and to the... read
more.
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Edison students speak out about After
School Program, By Bob Robinson
“This program was a phenomenal experience. It helped me grow as a
person; some days I didn't want to be there or had a bad day and I
would have to put all that aside because some of the kids could be
having a rough day and I’d need to be there for them.” “In my personal
opinion I believe that the After School Program could make the
difference for a child who...
read
more.
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Quack, Quack, By Kate Burch
The word, “canard” in French, means “a duck.” In English, the
word means a baseless rumor. Since Donald Trump’s election, we
have heard much quacking from those who object to his being the
President-elect. These people say that they fear that Muslims,
people of color, and people with sexual proclivities that are out of
the mainstream are going...
read
more.
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My Christmas Wishes,
By
Bob Robinson
I had just received a letter from Jim Neely wishing my friends and
family a Merry Christmas from Vietnam. I knew that was impossible; I
was dreaming… my Texas A&M buddy lost his life Aug. 23, 1968. I
pictured dad with his cigar, sitting back in his armchair, a half smile
on his face. Every once in a while I’d pause from tearing open presents
and glance...
read
more.
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Start
Talking! Know! Positive
Relationships Build Character
12/1/2016 - One of the greatest gifts you can give your children cannot
be bought online or in-store. While it is not likely to be on their
holiday wish list, this gift is likely to bring your children greater
happiness with lifelong benefits. We are talking about the gift of
positive relationships and character development. Search Institute
began a multi-year...
read
more.
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Broke
Wife, Big City… What we really
want for Christmas, By Aprill Brandon
Christmas is great, isn’t it? Magical when you’re a kid. A celebration
of the beautiful life and beautiful lives you’ve created when you’re a
grandparent. And a red and green tinged tsunami that destroys your
home, your finances and your sanity when you’re a parent. Ah, yes, ‘tis
truly the most wonderful time of the year. Of course, don’t get me
wrong. I still love Christmas. The endless excuses to drink booze...
read
more.
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It’s time
once again for ‘A Christmas Carol’, By Susan Olling
Charles Dickens, the author of more than one Victorian-era novel,
penned a “Ghostly (sic) little book” in 1843. It’s been adapted
for radio, television, movies, and theater. Some characters
appeared in Sherlock Holmes stories in the late twentieth century. ‘Tis
the season for us to enjoy A Christmas Carol. Mr. Dickens’s first
public reading of A Christmas...
read
more.
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Commissioner’s Corner… Darke County has a lot to be thankful for
November is now over and hopefully, all of the leftover turkey is gone
too. Thanksgiving is always a special time for families and friends to
get together and give thanks for all the blessings we have received.
This year, Darke County has a lot to be thankful for, and we hope all
of you do too! The year 2016 has turned out to be very good...
read
more.
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Safer Schools Ohio… National Bullying Prevention
To ensure safe and supportive learning environments for Ohio’s
students, Ohio Revised Code 3313.666 requires all school districts that
receive federal funding have a policy prohibiting student-to-student
incidents of harassment, intimidation or bullying in Ohio schools.
Ohio’s Anti-Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying (HIB) model policy...
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… My online life is a hot mess,
By Aprill Brandon
You know, it used to be back in my day (oh yes, I’m officially old
enough to use that phrase unironically now) that you were only in
charge of keeping one life in order. Or at least keeping it from
turning into a major dumpster fire. All you had to do was keep a roof
over your head (with only small-to-medium leaks tops), food in your
fridge (30 plus containers of old takeout completely qualifying)...
read
more.
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The Food
Police Just Don’t Get It, By Susan Olling
We have two rules when it comes to food. First, everything in
moderation. Second, all numbers go out the window during the
period between Thanksgiving and Christmas (and vacations, too).
Mind you, we’ll still get on the exercise bike, and I’ll also take my
daily walk. Unfortunately, this festive time of year brings out the
food police with their lists of holiday...
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… Thanksgiving 2016, By Aprill
Brandon
Hey, have I mentioned how much I love Thanksgiving? Because I do. Oh,
so much. And not just because it’s a holiday where it’s acceptable to
drink all day. This year in particular I’m looking forward to because
it’s the first Thanksgiving where our whole family is complete. Both
kids are now officially out of my uterus and I plan on having no other...
read
more.
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Start Talking! Know! To Focus on Positive Prevention
Strategies
11/9/2016 - As a parent or other caring adult, when we look to prevent
or change particular behaviors in children, we sometimes do so by
attempting to instill fear (scare tactics). When it comes to
anti-substance use scare tactics, messages delivered may go something
like this: • See that mock crash, if you drink and drive, you will
crash and...
read
more.
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NPR… Hi all. What a week!
The Trump presidency, and the massive change it brings, is a huge new
story for all of us at NPR. In the coming weeks and months it’ll be our
job to make sense of it all. Our role as journalists has never been
more important: to report the facts and put developments in context.
For the nation’s schools – and teachers, students...
read
more.
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Start Talking… Know! To Recognize and Respond to Bullying
10/25/2016 - Bullying touches the lives of at least one out of every
four children in the U.S. In this year alone, approximately 13 million
youth, from preschool to high school, will experience it. Yet, many
parents do not even know their child is a victim. One study revealed
that as many as 64 percent of youth who were bullied did not tell a...
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… In defense of Thanksgiving, By
Aprill Brandon
Guys, I love analogies. I love analogies like how bad writers love a
good cheap gimmick. Which is why I want to begin this particular column
about my love of Thanksgiving with the following cheap gimmicky
analogy: You guys have turned Thanksgiving into the classic middle
child of the major holidays. At one time it was a big deal in America.
But now, jammed in-between Halloween...
read
more.
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Isn't it about time? By George
Starks
I've never been one to get deep into the political scene but I have
noticed lately that I am paying more attention to the news. How many of
you noticed how the liberal media was trying to drag Hillary Clinton
across the finish line? CBS was holding out in hopes Clinton would turn
Pennsylvania and Michigan blue while the western media had already
projected Donald...
read
more.
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State Senator Bill Beagle… Honoring Ohio's Veterans
Veterans Day is a time to pay special tribute to the courageous
military men and women who have answered the call to defend the
principles of freedom, liberty and democracy. Originally established as
Armistice Day in 1919 to commemorate the end of the First World War,
the day was later changed to Veterans Day to honor all American service
members. Among...
read
more.
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A Sigh of Relief, By Kate Burch
To my mind, Democrat-party leadership in general, and the actions of
the Obama administration in particular, have meant erosion of our most
fundamental rights as American citizens: life, liberty, and the pursuit
of happiness. The womb has become a parlous place under
Democrats. Frank encouragement of elective abortion is a national...
read
more.
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Start Talking… Know! the Facts and Respect the Meds
10/26/2016 - Did you know teen medicine abuse is on the rise?According
to the Partnership Attitude Tracking Study (PATS), there was a 33
percent increase in American teens abusing prescription drugs over a
five-year period. Prescription meds now rank in the top three most
popular drugs of choice among youth, just after marijuana...
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… This part is hard, By Aprill
Brandon
Now before I say what I’m getting ready to say, let me say first that I
realize I am hardly the first person to ever say this. Thousands,
perhaps hundreds of thousands, or hell, maybe even millions of other
people have not only said this, but they probably said it much more
eloquently and with far less booger jokes than I ever could. But after
the week I had, I feel one more time is absolutely...
read
more.
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State Representative Jim Buchy… Still Plenty of Work To Do As The 131st
General Assembly Winds Down
- This fall, the Ohio Legislature moves into “lame duck session”: the
period between the election of our new legislators and the beginning of
the next General Assembly, when they will be sworn into office.
However, there is still plenty of work to be done for the people of
Ohio between now and then. We must continue to fight the opioid
epidemic, reform...
read
more.
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Baseball, Hogs, Politics & Rashes,
By
Susan Olling
This may be a bit of a meandering installment. But it’s not a bad
thing to put observations in writing. Mr. History is very happy.
The Cubs won the World Series. We watched the standings all
season. I, quite frankly, was impressed each Sunday to see the
North Side team’s record: the best in baseball. Mr. History
can’t carry a tune, but he...
read
more.
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Checklist
for road tripping with small children, By Aprill
Brandon
1. Run to the store to buy juice boxes, goldfish crackers, raisins,
assorted cheaply made toys designed to be hurled into the backseat at
the first sign of a tantrum. 2. Eat all the leftovers in the fridge,
even the questionable ones, over the three days leading up to the trip.
The ancient pizza, the fossilized Chinese food, the milk on the verge
of going bad, the giant vat of bean soup everyone hates...
read
more.
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Representative Buchy… The EpiPen: How Big Government Hurts the
Drug Market
In recent weeks, much concern has been raised about the EpiPen, an
epinephrine auto injector produced by the pharmaceutical company,
Mylan. Epinephrine is an inexpensive means of counteracting potentially
life-threatening allergic reactions. If administered quickly,
epinephrine saves lives. However, despite the low cost of epinephrine,
the EpiPen has...
read
more.
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State Senator Bill Beagle… Has Ohio Conquered The Third Frontier?
Transforming Ohio's Economy for the 21st Century: What's Possible?
Initially authorized by Ohio voters in 2002 with a $1.6 billion state
investment and reauthorized in 2010 with an additional $700 million,
the Ohio Third Frontier continues to foster an "innovation ecosystem"
that allows companies to transition great ideas from the laboratory to
the marketplace...
read
more.
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The predictable scandal and the
schizophrenic box of chocolates, By Mike Stegall
As this election season goes on, it seems to me that this is getting
more and more clear that our nation is so torn between the two major
candidates that it is actually tearing at the very fabric of our
nation. I do not remember any election where friends have fought
and argued more about candidates they will support than this
year. I have a good friend...
read
more.
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State Representative Jim Buchy… Deer Season in Ohio
For motorists, a deer hunter is the best defense between you and an
auto insurance claim. In Ohio, hunters are a critical part of managing
the deer population and this deer season will be no exception. Archery
season in Ohio for deer hunters began on September 24th and will run
through February 5th, while deer gun season will begin on November 28th
and end...
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… I’m running away from home, By
Aprill Brandon
If you would have asked me 10 years ago what I saw myself doing in the
future, arguing for 23 minutes with a toddler about appropriate places
to poop would have been fairly low on the list (which, by the way, the
bathtub, Momma’s bed and the dairy aisle at the grocery store all equal
Not Appropriate for any of you toddlers out there reading this).
Winning the Pulitzer Prize, divorcing...
read
more.
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State Representative Jim Buchy… Ensuring Responsible Driving, Saving Lives
Drunk driving remains one of the top reasons for traffic fatalities in
the nation and within our state. In 2013, 28.7 million people admitted
to driving under the influence of alcohol, an alarming number that
shows just how far reaching this issue is. It is clear that as a
society we must find a better way to reduce drunk driving on our
roadways. For that...
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… Rawhide bones double as binkies, right?
By Aprill Brandon
Everyone tells you. Everyone. But of course you don’t believe them. You
didn’t believe them about breastfeeding hurting so bad it made you want
to shoot yourself in the face. Why would you believe them about this?
But it turns out they’re right. (On both accounts. I can’t be around
any weapons until my nipples are mine again. I like my face too much).
And when it comes to having kids...
read
more.
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Know! Family Support for Prevention
9/30/2016 - Research Institute has identified 40 developmental assets
for adolescents; a specific set of skills, experiences, relationships
and behaviors that help young people flourish and mature into
successful and contributing adults. Studies of more than five million
children of all cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds consistently
show...
read
more.
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Buchy… Increasing the Monetary Limit for Small
Claims Courts
Small businesses make up a large pillar of our western Ohio economy.
For that reason, I am always supportive of all proposed measures that
will help our local small businesses to grow and prosper far into the
future. One of these most recent pieces of legislation was House Bill
387, which doubles the monetary jurisdiction of a small claims court
from $3,000...
read
more.
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Who Profits? By Kate Burch
The recent closing of ITT Tech was the latest of a series of successful
assaults on for-profit colleges by the Obama administration. Our
benevolent leaders claim, of course, that they are simply trying to
protect students from predators in the marketplace who will charge high
tuition rates, leave the students with piles of debt, and provide less
chance...
read
more.
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A bit of sarcasm, By Susan
Olling
Be warned, this writer is a firm believer in the use of sarcasm on
occasion. If sarcasm isn’t your cup of tea, you don’t have to
continue reading. Thirty-six hours before the end of the federal
government’s fiscal year, the POTUS signed a continuing resolution (CR)
from the gang in the big, domed building. What does this
mean? Your federal government will be...
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… Death is the ultimate guilt trip,
By Aprill Brandon
Aprill “Danger” Brandon, age 35, a lifelong resident of stunted
adolescence, died Thursday in her Boston home (technically Somerville
but whatever, close enough). The cause of death was a brain aneurysm
brought on by being forced to watch what authorities suspect was too
many “Little Einsteins” episodes. The first documented case of “brain
suicide,” as the doctors are referring to it...
read
more.
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Commissioner’s Corner… “Aviation Day” and the official “Clayton
Murphy Day”
September 22nd is the official first day of Autumn. Autumn means cooler
weather, High School football is going strong, and it won’t be long
until leaves are falling, crops are coming off, bonfires, and
preparation for the 3 big holidays, Halloween, Thanksgiving and
Christmas are getting underway. This year has really flown by, and in
some...
read
more.
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There Is No Such Thing as Greed,
By Jana Kolling
A lot of things separate our political parties, but the most noticeable
is economics. One side believes the government is the answer, the
other thinks businesses can do better. Public versus
private. And to prove their point, the left will always point to
corporate greed. This is how they try to persuade voters that
they care about them, and will protect them from...
read
more.
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State Senator Bill Beagle… Prevention is Key in Combating Ohio's
Growing Drug Addiction Epidemic
-- It was Benjamin Franklin who said, “An ounce of prevention is worth
a pound of cure.” Today in Ohio, we are spending an increasing amount
of state and local resources on the tragic problem of heroin addiction.
Sadly, much of our efforts are being devoted to those who are already
wrestling with the problem of addiction. For many Ohioans, addiction
begins when legitimately prescribed narcotics...
read
more.
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The Giant,
Sucking Maw, By Kate Burch
As one who was involved in the successful grassroots effort to achieve
repeal of Ohio’s Estate Tax in 2012, it is with consternation that I
read about Hillary Clinton’s plan, if elected, to raise the federal
“death tax” even more than she promised previously—to a maximum of 65%
on assets above $500 million. She would tax all estates over $10
million at 50%, and estates over $50 million at 55%...
read
more.
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State Representative Buchy… The Future of Ohio Agriculture
Last month, thousands of Ohioans from across the state flocked to their
annual county fairs and the Ohio State Fair to showcase the best in
agriculture. These events provide a wonderful opportunity for our youth
to be involved in Ohio’s strongest industry, and to gain valuable
experience for their futures. From our county fairs all the way to
Columbus...
read
more.
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NPR… Frustration. Burnout. Attrition. It's Time
To Address The National Teacher Shortage,
Eric Westervelt - The good news: There's an uptick in the hiring of new
teachers since the pink-slip frenzy in the wake of the Great Recession.
The bad news: The new hiring hasn't made up for the teacher shortfall.
Attrition is high, and enrollment in teacher preparation programs has
fallen some 35 percent over the past five years — a decrease...
read
more.
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Start Talking… Know! The Middle School Challenges and
Changes
9/8/2016 - The first day of middle school has come and gone. While your
child’s initial fears of navigating the hallways, using the combination
lock and finding someone to sit with at lunch may be officially behind
her, it doesn’t mean she’s got a peaceful, easy feeling about the rest
of her middle school experience. And as a parent, you must know...
read
more.
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The Star Beacon (Recommended by
Sam Custer, OSU Extension)… Sharing
the road safely,
By David Marrison -- Sep 11, 2016 -- With harvest season approaching,
it is important to remember large farm vehicles like these will soon be
not only out in the fields but on the roadways. As we approach the fall
season, there will be an increase of farm equipment traveling on the
roads. Road safety is especially important as farmers and motorists
share the road during harvest season. This is a good time...
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… Today I will be a good mom, By
Aprill Brandon
Today I will be a good mom. Today, when my 9-week-old baby wakes up
screaming at 4 a.m., I will not roll out of bed cursing under my breath
like a sailor with Tourette’s. I will not wake up looking like a swamp
demon because I was too tired the night before to take off my makeup.
And I most definitely will not rant to her as she poops all over my
hand about how I bet Duchess...
read
more.
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Buchy... John Glenn Inspires Generations to Dream Big
I still remember the day that John Glenn made that historic flight to
orbit the earth. I was twenty two at the time and was glued to my
television, watching America make history. It was unbelievable and
something no one thought was possible. John Glenn was more than an
astronaut that day, he was a household name. John Glenn, born and
raised in...
read
more.
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Fun at the
Great Darke County Fair, By Bob Robinson
The 160th Great Darke County Fair is now in the history books. I hope
all of you enjoyed it as much as I did. I’m slowing down this year…
only made it seven out of the nine days, but I covered a lot of ground,
I think. I saw a lot of “my” kids from Greenville Schools and Edison
State… kids I worked with years ago and kids I worked with last year...
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… When the bedtime ritual gets out of hand,
By Aprill Brandon
The one great thing about humans? We can get used to almost anything.
The one terrible thing about humans? We can get used to almost
anything. And nowhere does this become more evident than when you
become a parent. Even the most absurd daily rituals become normalized
if you do them enough times. Which is how you find yourself doing
things like spending 45 minutes making...
read
more.
|
Darke County Republican Party affirms
support for Trump/Pence
GREENVILLE, OHIO On Tuesday, September 6, the Darke County Republican
Party announced its full support for Donald Trump and Mike Pence. “We
have watched, with growing dismay and concern, as many of our top Party
leaders have abandoned the Trump ticket. For us, this divide in the
party can seemingly only lead to negative...
read
more.
|
College Life, Part 2… More Advice for the Uninformed College
Freshmen, By Will McCabe
For two of my high school friends who graduated a year after me, I gave
them as a graduation gift a booklet full of information I’ve gathered
about how to “survive” their first year of college. Some of these tips
I’ve given already in a prior article, and now I want to share some
more. In case you haven’t read the previous piece I’ve written (I
highly recommend you...
read
more.
|
Playing the Courts? By Jim
Surber
I suppose with our astounding and rapidly progressing technology it was
bound to happen. With all the amazing things that computers are capable
of doing, creative thinking is finding new, unforeseen problems to
solve and create, as well as investment opportunities. If you have ever
entertained the idea of trying to extract money from people or
corporations...
read
more.
|
It’s Hurricane Season, By
Susan Olling
We’ve been listening, or muting, a bunch of excited weather
guessers. Yes, a hurricane’s moving up the coast. Welcome,
Hurricane Hermine. Ever since humans started living along the
southeastern coast of this continent, hurricanes have been a part of
the weather. The Carib tribe coined a word for these storms,
huracan, that the...
read
more.
|
A Messy
Revolution, By Kate Burch
Now that we have seen the spectacle of disgraced former Congressman
Anthony Weiner relapsing into his addiction to the sexual perversion of
exhibitionism, thereby totally destroying his marriage and his career,
and possibly seriously traumatizing his young son, it is high time that
we honestly assess and seriously work to turn back the damage done to
our people by the reign of the terribles...
read
more.
|
Broke Wife, Big City… Have you hugged your nurse today?
By Aprill Brandon
She couldn’t have been much more than 100 pounds. Just super petite.
Tiny even. This was made even more apparent when compared to my
extremely rotund and bloated figure. So when she said “lean your head
against my chest and squeeze my hands when the pain hits,” I laughed.
And then laughed again. And then the laughter walked right up to the
border of hysterical...
read
more.
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Start Talking… Know! The Big Sibling Effect!
8/25/2016 -- There is a unique and special connection between siblings
that cannot be denied nor duplicated. They are both tormentors and
protectors; a source of teasing one moment, the greatest ally the next.
Siblings are also likely to be one and other’s longest-lasting
relationship. Four out of five Americans get to experience the growing
years with a brother or sister, and in most...
read
more.
|
Senate President Keith Faber… Safe Driving Awareness Month
Life is full of distractions. Driving can offer a rare moment of escape
from the buzzing of our smart phones and the demands of the day. By
making the inside of our vehicles a refuge instead of a workspace, we
send the message to our children that distractions are a choice, not a
necessity. Too many Ohioans have learned from experience that picking
up the...
read
more.
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College Life, Part 1… Some Much-Needed Advice for College Freshman,
By Will McCabe
Don’t worry young adults, this isn’t going to be some patronizing,
beat-you-over-the-head tips that say things you’ve heard several times
over. Like you, I started my freshman year two years ago with several
questions I didn’t even know I had, as well as misconceptions that I
quickly found out were false. Sometimes while parents, adults, and high
school teachers mean well, they often scare you into thinking...
read
more.
|
NPR Education… Parsing The 'Free' In Free Community College,
Anya Kamenetz
August 25, 2016 -- Let's say you have invites to two parties that
advertise "free drinks!" At the first party, there's simply an open
bar. At the second party, though, you have to bring in your tax return,
fill out a long form, and register to receive a cocktail grant in a
given amount based on your annual income. Once those funds are drained,
you can then become eligible for vouchers to pay...
read
more.
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Commissioner’s Corner… Congrats to Murphy; another great fair!
August has come and gone. Hot, humid weather, followed by flash rain
storms and in some places flooding, the start of High School football,
schools going back in session, and of course, the 9 day run of the
Great Darke County Fair. Sounds like a typical August in the Miami
Valley and in Darke County! First of all, the Darke County...
read
more.
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Great Darke County Fair… Checking out the livestock, By
Bob Robinson
One of the things I wanted to be sure to do was check out the livestock
options this year (maybe next year I can get to the produce… sorry). At
the top of my list were the piglets in the hog barn. I’d been told
about that… I don’t remember the exact numbers but at six weeks, I
think the piglets weighed about 20 lbs. At six months they weighed...
read
more.
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State Representative Jim Buchy… Rolling Out Online Voter Registration
This past spring the General Assembly was hard at work writing a bill
to create an online voter registration system. This legislation
was extremely important for our state and ultimately Senate Bill 63,
was passed by both chambers and signed by Governor Kasich. Senate Bill
63 establishes a system where Ohioans have the opportunity to register
to vote...
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… Who did I just give birth to?
By Aprill Brandon
Numbers are a funny thing, ain’t they? It all starts with two
individual Ones wanting to become a single Two. And then you Two build
a whole world together. And then when you decide, probably drunkenly,
to go from a family of two to a family of three, that entire world you
built is set on fire and bombed and then drop-kicked into a black hole
by an 8-pound human. Everything changes...
read
more.
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State Representative Jim Buchy… A Salute to Our Local Public Safety Workers
America, it seems, has become more divided over the past few years than
at any other point in recent memory. Unfortunately, in that process,
distrust toward law enforcement has reached an all time high, creating
an undeniable tension that plagues communities across the country. When
we turn on the television and see horrific events unfold before our
eyes...
read
more.
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Great Darke County Fair… Blending past memories with the present,
By Kathy Magoto
I had not been to the Great Darke County Fair for several years, so it
was as though I was looking through different eyes when I passed
through the gates. Undoubtedly each of us experiences the fair
differently, depending on our age, interests, etc. The fair
awakens all our senses; sight, sound, smell, touch and taste, making
the experience surreal...
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… All that’s missing is the white picket fence,
By Aprill Brandon
It was a particularly bad day to give birth to a baby. Or, depending on
how you view it, I suppose, it was a particularly good day to give
birth to a baby. Which is why every pregnant woman in the world decided
to do it that morning. In my hospital, no less. A birth explosion is
how one nurse delightfully described it. At one point, I’m pretty sure
non-pregnant women just started walking...
read
more.
|
Great Darke County Fair… Rain or no rain, it’s opening day,
By Jan Boyer
Threat of rain.... cancel a fun evening at the Great Darke County
Fair? No way would many dyed in the wool fair goers think of
it! What are a few drops of rain or even a downpour compared to
opening day at the Fair? As a few drops of water hit my glasses while I
was walking toward the main gate at the Fairgrounds, I knew I would
probably not make it to...
read
more.
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Having Fun
and Staying Safe at the Great Darke County Fair
Darke County, OH 45331 August 19, 2016 The tents are going
up, animals are getting baths and you can smell the funnel cakes; nine
days and nights of rides, exhibitions, grandstand entertainment, 4-H
shows and food, providing those who attend a marvelous time at the
great Darke County Fair! To insure that you continue to have a...
read
more.
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Am I
Worthy? By Will McCabe
The word “worthy” is thrown around a lot, and while it may seem
fascinating to think about, such as with being “worthy” to lift Thor’s
hammer or “worthy” to pull a sword from a stone, this concept of
“worthiness” causes problems in real life. For most, if not all of us,
we encounter moments of our life when we screw up. It’s during these
moments in which we realize our imperfections and believe we must be
worse...
read
more.
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Answering Life’s Biggest Questions…
Chores,
By Abigail Fischer and Katie DeLand
Dear A+K: I feel like a complete failure. I tried to implement new
chores for my kids this summer, but here we are in August, and they
still struggle with the most basic of tasks. When will this ever
click? Sincerely, Chapped over Chores. Dear Chapped: Those precious
chore charts we made in June have long been tossed. The apps we
downloaded to track their domestic progress after the paper...
read
more.
|
The Moral Preeners vs. Nearly Everyone Else,
By Kate Burch
I read this morning that Syrian refugees who end up in Virginia are
being resettled in that state’s poorest communities, action that will
certainly strain already overstretched resources and probably cause at
least concern and possibly harm to the residents of those areas.
This seems to me a very good example of what is a frequent
pattern: our...
read
more.
|
About our first First Lady, Martha
Washington, By Susan Olling
The first First Lady has been overlooked. She was a fascinating
person. Years before she was Lady Washington, wife of the President,
she was Martha Dandridge of Chestnut Grove, a small plantation on the
Pamunkey River in New Kent County, Virginia. Born in 1731, she
was the oldest of eight children and learned responsibility very early...
read
more.
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Empowering Darke County Youth… The priceless value of two quarters,
By Bob Robinson
As tutoring wraps up for the summer, Empowering tutors can feel a sense
of accomplishment over the students they have helped. Caregivers
appreciated our efforts… just as important, the students seem to have
appreciated our efforts. It is a great feeling seeing these kids
progress; watching as they begin to understand some of their math
problems, read more comfortably, grow in their vocabularies...
read
more.
|
Our #1
Threat, By Will McCabe
The title is often posed as a question to politicians, and we are given
answers such as “the national debt,” “global warming,” and “terrorism.”
What if I told you that these are all small concerns in comparison to
our biggest issue: apathy. Here’s an example so I can show you what I
mean. A woman is in need to get across a river. The only one who is
able to run her across is a known criminal named Brutus...
read
more.
|
Answering Life’s Biggest
Questions… School Shopping,
By Abigail Fischer and Katie DeLand
Dear A+K: August has arrived, and I can't hardly contain my excitement
for school to start. The only thing holding me back is actually
back-to-school shopping. It is awful. Any tips? Sincerely,
Sick o' Shopping. Dear Shopper: Leave it to the commercial world to
ruin the ONE sport we actually enjoy: shopping. Come
August, we can't watch a simple CBS drama without being taunted with
back-to-school...
read
more.
|
State Representative Jim Buchy… Ohio’s Thriving Business Climate
It is no secret that small businesses are the backbone of our economy,
especially right here in western Ohio. Our community is comprised of
thousands of hardworking men and women who are focused on providing the
best life possible for their family. It’s these dedicated individuals
who make me proud to represent the best region in Ohio, but I’m also
proud to stand up and pass legislation that will support...
read
more.
|
Edison Student Commentary… Communications class adjourns,
By Julie Roseberry
For those who do not understand: Bob Robinson was my Fundamentals of
Communications instructor. We had a carry-in for our last day. I
brought yogurt. Also, rhymes are better in your head, but ya gotta just
roll with it sometimes. Robby Bobinson (aka Bob) always got my name
wrong. He called me Sherrie and Julia. He was teased. A lot. We...
read
more.
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Commissioners Corner… A busy month in Darke County
Can anyone believe that in a few short weeks the Great Darke County
Fair will be starting? July, like the rest of the year, has flown by
quickly. It seems that just a few weeks ago the farmers were planting
their crops, and the kids were getting out of school. Now, harvest time
is not far off, and school starts shortly. Where does the time go? One
reason for things moving so fast...
read
more.
|
State Senate President Keith
Faber… Ohio's Sales Tax Holiday
Returns
As the father of two school-age children, I know how expensive it can
be to prepare students to return to the classroom for another school
year. That is why I am pleased to remind families that we have renewed
the Ohio Sales Tax Holiday again this year to give parents much-needed
relief during the back-to-school shopping season. This three-day
exemption from qualifying sales taxes is meant...
read
more.
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State Senator Bill Beagle … Helping Ohio's Job Creators Pay Off
Unemployment Compensation Debt
- Some bills we pass in the Ohio Senate generate front-page headlines
and constituent emails by the hundreds, while others travel through the
legislative process with little fanfare. Sometimes it’s legislation
that flies under the radar that makes the greatest impact on the lives
of ordinary Ohioans. Legislation we recently passed to erase Ohio’s
unemployment...
read
more.
|
Answering Life’s Biggest
Questions… Sleeping with
Children Part II,
By Abigail Fischer and Katie DeLand - Dear A+K, How do my kids know
when I'm completely fatigued? It's like they see how tired I am and
then hide in a tent planning the 3am sabotage. What is going on here
and how do I put on an energized face? Sincerely, Nocturnal Nemesis.
Dear Nocturnal Nemesis, Sleep after having children should be
redefined. Maybe we shouldn't even call it sleep. The...
read
more.
|
“The Donald” By Truman Bashore
I watched the interview with Donald Trump on 60 Minutes Sunday with
amusement. The interview came from his three floor apartment at
the Trump Tower. It was difficult following his interview because
he spoke from his gold laced chair. The brightness was blinding.
This is a man who wants to make “America Great Again” and doesn’t have
the decency...
read
more.
|
State Representative Jim Buchy… Medical Marijuana in Ohio: What’s Ahead?
During my time in the state legislature, I have fought tooth and nail
to protect families all across our state. As you may know, Governor
Kasich recently signed into law House Bill 523, which legalizes
medicinal marijuana and establishes the Marijuana Control Program to
regulate its use. In spite of my opposition to creating any means of
legalizing marijuana, there...
read
more.
|
ODE… State leaders urge schools to help fight
drug abuse
7/7/2016 - State officials including Ohio Gov. John Kasich, Lt. Gov.
Mary Taylor, Attorney General Mike DeWine and Ohio legislative leaders
recently sent letters to all school superintendents in Ohio to share
tools and information with teachers, counselors and parents in an
effort to fight the deadly opioid epidemic. Among other things, the
letter...
read
more.
|
An Excess
of Caution, By Kate Burch
Recently General Mills, “in an excess of caution,” has voluntarily
recalled, more than ten million pounds of flour, and also some baking
mixes containing the targeted lots of flour, because of the possibility
that the flour was contaminated with a particular strain of E. coli
bacteria. This bacteria causes acute gastrointestinal symptoms,
sometimes...
read
more.
|
Edison Student Commentary… “The Human Cost of an Illiterate Society”
By Lincoln Rapp
Jonathan Kozol wrote this essay in an attempt to describe the
challenges that illiterate people face every day and the effect
illiteracy has on the country as a whole. He writes that most
illiterates do not vote. Those that do, usually do not consider
the character or policies of the candidate they choose and are easily
swayed by the opinions of others...
read
more.
|
Answering Life’s Biggest Questions…
Beach Vacays,
By Abigail Fischer and Katie DeLand
Dear A&K - I am currently in the process of packing for our beach
vacation, and I want it to be as magical as it is in my head. I
know this isn't very realistic, so please give some suggestions on how
to NOT make it a disaster. Sincerely, Flip-Flopped in Ohio - Dear Flip:
First, let's be clear: getting there is half the battle.
Please refer to our earlier...
read
more.
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Keep Your
Kids Drug-Free This Summer,
by Sarah Smith, Director of Start Talking! Youth Drug Prevention
Initiative - 7/7/2016 - Summer break is upon us, and for tweens and
teens this means no homework, plenty of free time and less supervision.
While a majority of youth will find healthy ways to keep busy, some,
unfortunately, will use their unsupervised freedom to experiment with
drugs and alcohol. Now that your kids are no longer in school, how...
read
more.
|
Empowering Darke County Youth… Learning from our kids, By Bob
Robinson
I have trouble remembering names. No matter how hard I try, I can spend
16 weeks working with 15 or 16 students in a classroom and, if I’m
lucky – I mean really lucky – I’ll know 10 or 12 of them. Compound that
with two, three or four classes, and I’ll know the names of maybe a
third of students I’d seen twice a week for nearly four months.
Sometimes a student will be the victim of some kind...
read
more.
|
Senator Sherrod Brown… Allowing All Our Children to Reach Their
Full Potential
Two years ago, President Obama launched the My Brother’s Keeper
challenge, with the goal of expanding opportunities for a group that is
far too often left behind in this country — boys and young men of
color. The President and his team have reached out to cities across the
country, to find people committed to ensuring all Americans have access
to...
read
more.
|
Edison Student Commentary… Investigative Discovery: “The Vanishing
Women”,
By Heather Lee - “The Vanishing Women” is an investigative documentary
about the disappearances and murders of six women in the small town of
Chillicothe, Ohio. The first disappearance happened in May of 2014. The
authorities and the town had no idea in early months of the
disappearances that it would happen again and again and with no answers
in sight. Four of the six...
read
more.
|
Edison Student Commentary… The Human Cost of an Illiterate Society,
By Savannah Hill
The Human Cost of an Illiterate Society is an essay that gives
information on the dangers of having an illiterate society and the
problems we face because of it. This essay attempts to describe the
incalculable moral price paid by people individually and by the nation
as a whole, as a result of illiterate Americans. The national Institute
for Literacy estimated that 22 percent of adult Americans, about 42
million...
read
more.
|
Acting Stupidly, By Kate Burch
Human beings very early learn and begin to implement behaviors that
will help them to minimize risk and optimize safety. Some
examples: infants who are just beginning to crawl possess depth
perception and an awareness of danger of falling so that they will not
venture onto a sheet of glass covering a depression; at eight or nine
months...
read
more.
|
Edison Student Commentary… The Brexit Vote, By Heather Lee
The historical vote took place on June 23rd and Britain voted to leave
the European Union. Brexit mirrored the state of many economies all
over the world, the U.S. included. People are frustrated with the
status quo in politics. The reasons that the Brits’ voted to leave the
EU are almost identical to the reasons people are supporting Donald
Trump...
read
more.
|
CNO… Not your ordinary community information
service, By Bob Robinson, Managing Editor
County News Online is not your ordinary community information service.
It isn’t about breaking news – we have no staff reporters. It isn’t
about doing in-depth feature interviews… you can get those elsewhere.
County News Online IS, however, about you! It’s about what you and our
young people are doing… organizations serving our youth let us know
what they’re doing so we can let you know...
read
more.
|
U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Making Lifesaving Drugs More Affordable
Because of the Affordable Care Act, we’ve made progress in lowering the
cost of prescription drugs. We’ve expanded coverage to nearly 20
million Americans and we’re on track to close the Medicare Part D
“donut hole” by 2020. But too many Ohioans still struggle to afford
essential medicines that treat diseases like cancer and arthritis.
Every day, my office gets calls and letters from Ohioans...
read
more.
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Sicko, By Truman Bashore
I recently saw Michael Moore’s documentary, Sicko, about healthcare
here in America as opposed to the approach by such countries as the
United Kingdom and France. America is the only industrialized
nation that doesn’t provide universal healthcare to “fifty million
Americans.” Moore further points out that our health care system
ranks “37 out of 191 by...
read
more.
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Edison State Community College: Brexit… Similarities to the U.S.?
By Savannah Hill
There are many remarkable parallels between the Brexit vote and our
current presidential race. The Brexit is a referendum that will allow
Britain to formally exit the European Union. A majority of Americans
are completely unaware of Britain’s plan about leaving the European
Union, but Americans should pay attention and understand, as it is
motivated...
read
more.
|
Answering Life’s Biggest
Questions… Laundry Woes,
By Abigail Fischer and Katie DeLand
Dear A+K: With the 90 degree heat and 500 extracurricular activities, I
am drowning in laundry this summer. I seriously just can't keep
up, and I suspect that you two can relate. What are some helpful
hints on staying ahead of the game or putting a positive spin on this
situation? Sincerely, Losing it in the Laundry Room. Dear Losing it:
Aahhh- the laundry...
read
more.
|
An
alternate holiday celebration, By Susan Olling
It’s not unusual for those of us who live in the D.C. environs to take
local attractions for granted. We visit them for three reasons:
we just moved here, family or friends are in town, and when we’re about
to move away from the area. However, we can sometimes emerge
during the height of the tourist season if there’s a good reason.
Recently, there was a very good reason. Some time ago...
read
more.
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State Representative Jim Buchy… Summer in District 84
I have always been proud to call the 84th House District my home,
especially this time of year when the weather is heating up and our
local fairs and festivals get underway. There is nowhere else in Ohio
quite like it, and when our festivals and fairs are in full swing no
one can compare. This year is no different with 13 festivals and
parades planned throughout the summer months. We have had...
read
more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Growing Our Shrinking Middle Class
Today, Americans are working longer hours for less pay. Protections and
benefits that were once guaranteed by the government or bargained for
by unions have eroded. Workers are holding up their end of the bargain,
but seeing little in return. And new numbers illustrate the reality
Ohio workers face. Oxfam and the Economic Policy Institute released a
new...
read
more.
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ODE Start Talking! Know! To BUST Summer Boredom
6/23/2016 - It’s late June, which for many families means that kids are
sitting around the house complaining of summer boredom. Annoying? Yes.
Potentially dangerous? You bet. While there is absolutely nothing wrong
with teens experiencing a little boredom, too much time on their hands
with “nothing to do” can lead to trouble, like experimenting...
read
more.
|
Fourth of July… “I’m awesome,” says the young lady,
By Bob Robinson
“Why are you here?” Critical thinking level one… “I don’t know.” Level
two… “For the candy.” Critical thinking level three… “For the parade!”
“Why are we having a parade?” Level one… “For the candy.” Level two…
“For me!” Level three… “So I can get candy!” I love talking to kids!
Then there was this “awesome” young lady… don’t believe it? Just ask
her. “I’m awesome,” she said, then...
read
more.
|
Commissioner’s Corner… County gets clean audit, 2016 looking good
so far
June marks the halfway point of the year. 2016 has been pretty good to
Darke County so far and we hope to continue the fortune into the second
half of the year. We have had some weather issues with a few bad
storms, but we seem to have come through them with little, or minimal,
damage. The weather is getting warmer, and that leads to sudden storms,
so keep an eye...
read
more.
|
State Representative Jim Buchy… Celebrating Our Independence
Much has changed for our nation since gaining our independence in 1776,
however one thing that hasn’t changed is the pride and patriotism that
Americans have for living in the greatest country on Earth. Not only
are we lucky enough to call the greatest country home, but we are also
able to call Ohio home, a state where pride and patriotism are rooted...
read
more.
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Nothing
new under the sun, By Jim Surber
I write this piece in response to a recent request from a reader. She
asked that I write about a figure that has certainly received the
lion’s share of national attention this year. It is impossible to
relate anything new about Donald Trump, but I do believe that his rise,
given past and current events, is not inexplicable. Mr. Trump’s rise in
spite of his bombastic...
read
more.
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Answering Life’s Biggest Questions…
Road Trippin',
By Abigail Fischer and Katie DeLand
Dear A+K: We are gearing up for a road trip in the next few weeks, and
I am already having nightmares. Any tips on making a 15-hour trip
bearable? Sincerely, Rabid Roadster. Dear Rabid: First, fifteen
hours? We love your ambition, but...are you clinically
insane? We recommend staying within a six-hour radius, and even
then, find some local amusement park that you can pretend...
read
more.
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Livestock Tampering laws help maintain
responsible food production at fairs,
By Dr. Tony Forshey, State Veterinarian, Ohio Department of Agriculture
- Summer marks the beginning of fair season – a time when thousands of
4-H youth all across the state showcase the animal projects they have
spent so much time perfecting. As these hard working kids gear up to
show their animals, I want to encourage all exhibitors to be
aware of livestock...
read
more.
|
Senate President Keith Faber… The Key to Growth: Ohio is Working!
At the height of the Great Recession, Ohio’s economy was in critical
condition, barely clinging to life after the devastating loss of
350,000 private sector jobs. Under the leadership of our previous
governor’s administration, we consistently earned bottom ten national
rankings for our business climate. The tired old tax-and-spend strategy
couldn’t stop the...
read
more.
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State Representative Jim Buchy… Conformity is not the Answer for Gay
Marriage in Ohio
The United States Supreme Court made a landmark decision this past year
to legalize same-sex marriage nationwide. This ruling has led some
leaders to introduce reactionary legislation that will either open
Ohio’s doors to gay marriage or result in a tangled legal mess for
Ohio’s taxpayers. I plan to maintain my position in opposition to
forcing anyone to...
read
more.
|
Memorial Day, Every Day? By
Bob Robinson
“If you didn’t have to be here, would you still come?” I’ve asked that
question now for the past four years. One young lady – a Wavette, she
was a freshman then – wasn’t sure and I teased her about it. This year,
a graduating senior, she was sure… “Yes!” she said, without hesitation.
This year, in a leadership role, I had her ask her fellow Wavettes...
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… Read this. Or not. I don’t really care.
By Aprill Brandon
As I sit here with my laptop, a million years pregnant, looking like
Violet Beauregarde from Willie Wonka (only rounder and more obnoxious),
I can’t help but wonder “what the hell am I doing?” Not meaning the
pregnancy, of course. It’s much too late for that regret. She’s big
enough to qualify for social security at this point. No, I mean this is
likely my last post for awhile. One...
read
more.
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State Senator Bill Beagle… Scleroderma Awareness Month
Demeshia Trice is a survivor. Over the course of fifteen years, she's
undergone four partial finger amputations. She has ulcers covering her
whole body. She requires a caretaker to help her eat, bathe and perform
routine daily tasks. Demeshia is living with scleroderma, an autoimmune
disease that devastates the lives of over 300,000 people around the
nation. In...
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more.
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Brexit, By Kate Burch
An aspect of Britain's vote to exit the EU that has been little noted
is its affirmation of national identity. For decades, entertainers and
other utopians have been clamoring for a world without borders.
We are supposed to think that America is only exceptional in the same
way that “the Brits believe in British exceptionalism and the Greeks
believe in Greek...
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more.
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An Edison student Narrative… The Good Old Days, By Cierra
Kaufhold
Why can’t the world be like it once was? A world without hate, without
“The walk away Joes,“ and ”Run around Sues”… A world where families
meant something, love was forever, opening the front door to a stranger
was okay, prices were low, people could be trusted, everyone was kind
and understanding, people would offer a helping hand, people weren’t
afraid to talk or leave their home...
read
more.
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Ignorance, By Truman Bashore
According to the website Online Etymology Dictionary (Harper, Douglas,
2001-2016) the origin of the word ignorance is “lacking wisdom or
knowledge; unaware; not known of, pay no attention to, knowing nothing
of good manners”. In today’s political arena ignorance can be
found in the argument for expanding oil drilling, the denial of climate
change, and...
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more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… The narrow view of fatherhood,
By Aprill Brandon
One of the first things you learn as a new mom, besides how to dodge
jets of baby urine like Neo in “The Matrix,” is how much society hates
you. Oof, and man, do they hate you. And me. And anyone whose uterus
used to have an occupant. It doesn’t matter if we work or stay at home,
breast or bottle feed, wear yoga pants or fancy tailored lady trousers
with actual working buttons...
read
more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Summer Break Shouldn’t Mean Going Hungry
For children across Ohio, summer break is beginning, and for many
families that means vacations and summer camps and barbeques. But for
too many, it also means stress over how to care for children while
parents work, or how to feed children nutritious meals without the
school lunches they count on throughout the rest of the year. Hundreds
of thousands of Ohio students rely on the school...
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more.
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Versailles Poultry Days… 2016 Poultry Days Parade a Hoot… As Always,
By Bob Robinson
It’s a weird feeling not being involved in “journalism” any longer…
weird but in a way, comforting. I can do what I enjoy without having to
worry about reporting on it… under deadline, no less. That’s assuming I
have the time. I’ve had to replace a lot of events I really enjoyed
because of my educational pursuits. There simply isn’t enough...
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more.
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State Senator Beagle… Celebrating Father's Day With Compassion
and Connectivity
I recently attended my daughter’s graduation at Miami University, and
while I was filled with pride celebrating her accomplishments, I could
not help but to think about how fast these years have passed. As our
children grow, these important moments seem to fly by one after the
next. On that day I began to reflect on the joyous occasion of my
first-born's...
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more.
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Not So
Fast, Mr. Ryan, By Kate Burch
House Speaker Paul Ryan has condemned, and even threatened to sue,
Donald Trump over Mr. Trump’s promise to impose a temporary ban on
Muslim immigration. Mr. Ryan, and others on both sides of
politics, have claimed that such a ban would be unconstitutional and in
violation of our values and traditions as Americans. In truth, there...
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more.
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State Representative Buchy… HB 301--Health Savings Accounts for State
Employees
Currently, the Ohio House of Representatives is considering House Bill
301. This legislation, sponsored by Representative Michael Henne
and local Representative Stephen Huffman, would create an option for
state employees to choose a Health Savings Account in lieu of a
standard deductible health care plan. Under this option the individual
chooses a high...
read
more.
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Answering Life’s Biggest Questions…
Potty Training
Purgatory, By Abigail Fischer and Katie DeLand
Dear A+K: I am currently in the thick of potty training my toddler, and
I find myself divided. On one hand, I am SO DONE with diapers and
the stench that comes with them, but on the other, I am tired of
slipping in pee and running the washer 24/7. Please discuss and help me
rediscover the joys in this milestone! Sincerely, Fecal Fairy. Dear
Fairy: Potty training is no joke, and we are here...
read
more.
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Mr. History and his Hog, By
Susan Olling
Last year, I wrote about one of the toys on Mr. History’s wish list: a
top-of-line Harley. Mind you, he’s mentioned this particular item
for twenty years. I had apparently taken leave of my senses or my
evil twin was in our house last spring when I told him if he wanted a
Harley to get one. He bought a helmet and gloves and took the riding
class last fall...
read
more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… We Must All Stand Together After Orlando
Yesterday, Ohioans woke up to tragic news about the shooting at an
Orlando, Florida, nightclub. Connie and I send our deepest sympathies
to the families, friends, and communities of all those lost. We are
grateful to the first responders whose bravery saved lives, and we
continue to keep the law enforcement who are investigating and the
medical personnel...
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… 35 things I’ve learned in 35 years,
By Aprill Brandon
When you’re nine months pregnant and busy chasing a sugar-addicted
toddler around, certain things are bound to fall through the cracks.
The family’s collective hygiene, for one (she types as she tries to
remember how many days in a row her son has worn those Spiderman
pajamas). Basic human decency, for another (she types while cringing as
she remembers yelling “stop playing...
read
more.
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Answering Life’s Biggest Questions…
It’s a
trainwreck but do it anyway… and have fun!
By Abigail Fischer and Katie DeLand -- Dear A+K: My daughter always
wants to help out in the kitchen, but I find it so exhausting.
The mess just isn't worth it to me, which I know is missing the
point. Are there tips for a better cooking experience?
Thanks-Burned Out in the Kitchen. Dear Burned Out: "Cooking with Kids"
should actually be the title for a therapy group in community centers
across the globe...
read
more.
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Buchy… Senate Bill 3—Avoiding the Crux of New
Unfunded Mandates
Currently, the Ohio House of Representatives is considering Senate Bill
3. This was introduced by Senators Faber and Hite to reduce
bureaucracy, focus on locally driven teacher improvements, and reduce
state testing. The purpose of this bill is to reduce state mandates on
high performing schools. Western Ohio is home to many high performing
schools that...
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more.
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Commissioner’s Corner… Preliminary Budgets for 2017… hold the line
May has been a very busy month in the Commissioner’s office, as it has
been around the County. Farmers have worked feverishly to get their
plowing and planting done. It hasn’t been easy with the rain earlier in
the month, but now as this is written, we could use a good shower to
help those crops grow. May is always a time of renewal, and this...
read
more.
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State Representative Jim Buchy… Say No to HSUS, Defend Agriculture—Eat
Traditional
In western Ohio, agriculture and the products we produce provide for
the fine families we rear and the lives we live. The Humane
Society of the United States (HSUS) is trying to take our farming
practices back decades and the eventual impact their efforts have on
our bottom line could negatively impact our way of life. I will
continue to stand up against HSUS’ attempts to destroy our livelihoods...
read
more.
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Anomie v.2,
By Kate Burch
Pioneering French sociologist Emile Durkheim used the word, “anomie” in
his 1897 book, “Suicide” to describe a situation in which the society’s
standards and values are rapidly changing, causing people to feel
confused, alienated, and purposeless. He further wrote that
significant changes in the economic fortunes of a society and
especially a situation in which people are unable...
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more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… Mirror, mirror, on the wall,
By Aprill Brandon
I can’t remember exactly how old I was. It was probably around age 11.
A lot of important revelations are made when you turn 11. Like
realizing tater tots are the world’s most perfect food and how one eye
roll is worth a thousand “whatever’s.” So it was probably around this
time that I decided it was my nose. It was so obvious. Literally right
there way out in front of my face...
read
more.
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It's about time, By George
Starks
We live in a country that has been in a downward spiral for the last
eight years. Obama and his administration has done its best to destroy
our country. Wednesday, 11 states took a stand against stupidity and
slapped Obama and Satan himself right in the mouth. Texas, Georgia,
Alabama and a host of others said No to the transgender restroom law in...
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more.
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State Senator Bill Beagle… A Day to Remember Our Fallen Heroes
Since the beginning of the Iraq War in 2003, 275 Ohio soldiers have
lost their lives in action. 275 stories of bravery and
determination came to an abrupt end in battlefields far from the
comforts of home. 275 families were left to pick up the pieces and
continue with their lives after receiving the news they dreaded
most. Why did these soldiers give their lives? Ohio...
read
more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Memorial Day
At the end of the Civil War, Union veterans came together to establish
“Decoration Day,” to honor the bravery and preserve the memory of
fallen soldiers. Today, we mark this observance with Memorial Day to
remember all Americans — from the War of 1812 to the wars in Iraq and
Afghanistan — who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. It is
our duty...
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more.
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State Senator Keith Faber… A Time to Remember the Sacrifice of our
Fallen Soldiers
Memorial Day is about so much more than summer barbeques and bright,
candy-filled parades. It is a time to honor the service and sacrifice
of our brave men and women in uniform. Established in the wake of
massive Civil War casualties, Memorial Day was initially called
Decoration Day. Every year on May 30th, after weeks of preparation,
members of...
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more.
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World War I Memorial, From
Lana Johnston
Having just visited Washington DC with 300 Noblesville, Indiana kids,
the lack of a WWI memorial was very evident. WWI has become
a forgotten war, yet shaped American’s future, and our role in the
world. Info on the building of a memorial is below if you would
like to include in your publication. Hopefully you are doing a
Memorial Day...
read
more.
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The three
hours that changed history, By Susan Olling
We read lots of history in our house. Mr. History prefers the
Civil War and twentieth century conflicts. I have one foot is
planted firmly in the eighteenth century but have been known to read
history of more recent wars. My annual Memorial Day read is The Longest
Day by Cornelius Ryan. This book is one of the best about the
events of 06 Jun 1944, the first cross-channel invasion...
read
more.
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Senate President Keith Faber… Keeping Ohio's Government Open, Transparent
and Easy to Access
- Since the passage of Ohio’s first open records law in 1963, our state
legislature has gone to great lengths to open the doors of public
buildings to the taxpayers who want to take a closer look at the
activities and decisions that affect their daily lives. From meeting
minutes to official correspondence between elected officials, our
records are your records...
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more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… How New Overtime Rule Gives Back to Ohioans
Right now, Ohioans know they’re working more than ever before and for
less pay. Since the 1970s, middle class wages have stagnated, while the
number of hours spent on the job has gone up. The salary threshold to
be eligible for overtime pay hasn’t even come close to keeping pace
with inflation - leaving millions of families behind. Currently, only
people...
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more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… If children’s books actually realistic,
By Aprill Brandon
Hello! My name is Aprill. I have a son. His name is Riker. He is
2-years-old. He is a wonderful boy! Riker likes to laugh and play. And
he really loves to read! We read books all the time together. They all
sound exactly like this. Because who doesn’t love short sentences! And
lots of exclamation points! Mommy, that’s who! Or at least not after
reading 27 books in a row...
read
more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Honoring Our Veterans with the Benefits
They Deserve
Melissa Twine’s husband, Captain Philip Twine, was a logistics officer
in the Air Forced when he was killed in the line of duty in 2002. In an
instant, the Batavia native and fellow Air Force veteran became a
single mother of four and the sole breadwinner for a family struggling
with grief. She put her plans for a Master’s degree on hold to focus on
raising and...
read
more.
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State Representative Jim Buchy… High Quality H2O Always Needs a Bobby
Boucher
Over the past few months we have learned a lot about the water crisis
in Flint, Michigan and I must say that I am appalled by the failure of
their local government to do what’s right for the people of Flint. The
reason we have laws is to reinforce the Ten Commandments. Now is
not the time to react in Ohio by passing laws that focus solely on lead
concerns considering the...
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more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Controlling College Costs
Holding roundtables across our state is one of the most important
things I do in the Senate — it gives me a chance to meet with and hear
the stories of Ohioans of all backgrounds, and to gather new ideas. One
of the early ideas that came out of these roundtables was the Ohio
College Presidents Conference — an annual summit to bring together...
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more.
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Cui Bono?
By Kate Burch
The Food and Drug Administration, through its newly-released
regulations on electronic cigarettes, sounded the death knell for the
numerous start-up businesses that are developing and marketing the
devices. The regulations forbid marketing of an e-cigarette until
the FDA has approved an application that provides proof that the
product: 1.) is safer than regular cigarettes; 2.) that it helps
smokers...
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… A brief guide to modern parenting,
By Aprill Brandon
First of all, you should really already have kids. That biological
clock doesn’t tick forever, you know. I mean, wait until you’re
financially stable and all that, of course. It’s completely
irresponsible to have kids before you’re fully prepared. But if you
wait too long, that’s just selfish. Honestly, I don’t know what’s
worse, those women having babies in their 40s or those young
22-year-old...
read
more.
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Answering Life’s Biggest
Questions… Surviving the
full-blown reality of summer,
By Abigail Fischer and Katie DeLand - Dear A+K: I know you guys are
excited about summer break, but as a full-time SAHM, I am a little
apprehensive. The days get so long, and without structure, I lose
my mind. Any tips? Sincerely, Sun Weary - Dear Weary: Who are we
kidding? We enjoy not waking up for the bus and packing lunches
for about six days, and then the...
read
more.
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State Representative Jim Buchy… Capital Budget-Help for Good Local Projects
This year’s Capital Budget totaled $2.6 billion, of which $160 million
was allocated toward state projects. Often times the remaining
funds go toward local projects which have raised a substantial amount
of funds through their local governments and community
fundraising. In this capital budget, I am pleased that a number
of important projects throughout the...
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more.
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