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From
the Other Side of the Edge…. “Dead
Cop Society” Protesters,…Ignore the most Basic Point of All
- By Joe Facinoli - You wouldn’t start reading a book in the second
chapter, …would you? Of course not. You’d miss the set-up,
and the premise for the whole story. Would you begin telling a tale, or
relating an experience, in the middle of the action, and then jump to
the end,…to summarize? Obviously not. You would completely
confuse your audience…
read
more.
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Commissioner’s
Corner… Reflecting on our
blessings
December is finally here. Families have gathered together for the
Holiday’s, schools have taken a much needed break, and decorations are
everywhere to celebrate this most wonderful season. Since this is
the last month of the calendar year, it is always a good time to
reflect on our many blessings the good Lord has given us this past
year. If I were to list…
read
more.
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U.S.
Senator Sherrod Brown… Happy
Holidays
Connie and I wish you and your family a happy and healthy holiday
season. As the year comes to a close and I reflect on my travels
throughout Ohio, one common thread emerges: the compassion of Ohioans.
Each week, I encounter Ohioans who volunteer to help others and improve
their communities. Whether it’s sending care packages to our brave
service members…
read
more.
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State
Representative Jim Buchy… A Very
Merry Christmas for Ohioans
Once again, the Christmas season is upon us. This year, many households
in Ohio are poised to have a better Christmas than in years past. We
have worked hard over this past year to put people back to work and in
positions to provide for their families. Earlier in the fall the state
unemployment rate was 5.3 percent, down nearly two whole points from
the same time…
read
more.
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Broke
Wife, Big City… ‘Twas the month
of December, By Aprill Brandon
‘Twas the month of December, 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…
read
more.
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Cuba…
President Barack Obama
Yesterday, after more than 50 years, we began to change America's
relationship with the people of Cuba. We are recognizing the struggle
and sacrifice of the Cuban people, both in the U.S. and in Cuba, and
ending an outdated approach that has failed to advance U.S. interests
for decades. In doing so, we will begin to normalize relations between
our two countries. I was born in 1961…
read
more.
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From the Other Side of the Edge…. A
“Grown Up Christmas List”, …for a “World in Need”
By Joe Facinoli - Every year about this time, a couple of cracks in the
ol’ safety façade (which I’ve carefully constructed to keep the world
around me manageable, and at bay, when most needed), allow in some
unexpected moments of honest reflection, …and of true humanity. The
cynicism wanes just a bit, …the aggravation from all the world’s
frustrating and pointless doings…
read
more.
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Ohio GOP
Delegation Releases ObamaCare Horror Stories from Ohio
WASHINGTON, DC - Speaker John Boehner (OH-08) and Representatives
Steve Chabot (OH-01), Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), Jim Jordan (OH-04), Bob
Latta (OH-05), Bill Johnson (OH-06), Bob Gibbs (OH-07), Mike Turner
(OH-10), Pat Tiberi (OH-12), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Steve Stivers (OH-15),
and Jim Renacci (OH-16) today released the following statement reacting
to their constituents’ experiences…
read
more.
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State Representative Jim
Buchy… Anonymity for Those
Involved in Executions
A few months ago, I learned that state officials would not start
executions again until certain protections were in place to keep the
identity of those involved with the process private. What that means is
the drug manufacturers and the physicians who are involved with the
executions can rest easy knowing their names aren’t tied to the
execution. This is a big roadblock that we need to get past so that…
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more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Revitalizing American Manufacturing and
Innovation
One of my most important jobs is to advocate for working families in
Ohio. Middle-class families have felt squeezed by the number of jobs
going overseas, especially in the manufacturing sector. A report
released last week from the Economic Policy Institute found that from
2001 to 2013, the U.S. lost 2.4 million manufacturing jobs to China
alone. Ohio has long been a leader in manufacturing…
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… Without Christmas, it’s just…winter,
By Aprill Brandon
Sorry, guys, but brace yourselves. I am about to Pollyanna-out on all
of you. Maybe it’s because it’s my baby’s first Christmas or maybe it’s
because I’m getting soft in my old age, but whatever the reason is, I
am all about Christmas this year. I mean, I am downright excreting
Christmas spirit out of my freaking pores. I have to admit, it’s a nice
change of pace. Last year I was super pregnant…
read
more.
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Ohio Secretary of State Jon
Husted… Bi-Partisan
redistricting reform
COLUMBUS – Regarding today’s action on a bipartisan legislative
redistricting reform proposal, all of the following may be attributed
to Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted: “This is great news for the
people of Ohio. Legislative elections will be more competitive and the
elected representatives more accountable to those they serve. The voice
of the average voter got stronger today. I encourage Ohio…
read
more.
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From the Other Side of the
Edge…. Gitmo Torture, not so
Bad, Compared to….. By Joe Facinoli
What was the hardest decision that you ever had to make, in your whole
life? Think about it for a minute, …no hurry. Not which tie and suit to
wear, to your boorish boss’ latest social climbing dinner party. Nor
which college to send your lazy, C-student kid, in hopes he or she
might do better than grilling double cheeseburgers for the next 40
years. And not whether to tell your partner…
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more.
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Support
Local This Holiday Season
Winter weather has arrived and Christmas songs are playing on the radio
all across Ohio. Whether we were ready for it or not, the holidays are
here. As Tina and I look forward to spending time with family and
friends, we are also among the millions of other folks who are trying
to wrap up their Christmas shopping. As you scour store shelves and
online deals in search of the perfect gifts for those you love…
read
more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Keeping Ohio Workers and Children Out of
Poverty
Ohioans – many of whom work multiple jobs while taking care of their
children – deserve tax relief. And workers who lose their jobs or their
pensions due to no fault of their own deserve help with health bills.
While this makes sense to most Ohioans, too many Members of Congress
may disagree. While some legislators don’t hesitate to give tax breaks
to large corporations, they stop short of also providing…
read
more.
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State Representative Buchy… Adoption Reform Continues to Move Through
the Legislature
As we begin to wrap up our work in Columbus for the rest of the year,
we still have a few major tasks to accomplish. Among my highest
priorities is reforming Ohio’s current adoption system to ease burdens
on families and incentivize Ohioans to consider adopting children here
in the state. Ohio law affords the father of any newborn child the
opportunity to come forward and…
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more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… Let’s let bygones be bygones, Santa,
By Aprill Brandon
Dear Santa, Hiya, big guy. Remember me? Yes, yes, that Aprill with two
L’s who “allegedly” set fire to Prancer when she drank too much eggnog
and found that old stash of fireworks in the attic on Christmas Eve
2007. (But may I remind you, the trial ended in a hung jury so no hard
feelings, yeah?). I’m writing this letter to you on behalf of my son,
Riker, who due to circumstances beyond…
read
more.
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I “pass”
on passwords
Are a lot of people totally frustrated with the necessity and operation
of electronic device passwords? Could it just be me, or more likely a
function of my age? I hate passwords. I used to dislike them, but it
has gone well beyond that stage now. It is a passionate hatred. Today,
you need a username and unique password to operate virtually every
gizmo that is closely related to what used to be known…
read
more.
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The White House… Reach Higher Initiative, First
Lady Michelle Obama
Hi, all -- Homero Magaña moved to America with his family from a small
town in Mexico in 1993. Growing up in California, where his father was
an agricultural worker, Homero had the chance to attend a summer
program focused on preparing students for higher education. This
program inspired Homero to go to college, and years later, he earned a
graduate degree in school counseling…
read
more.
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Ohio Secretary of State Jon
Husted… Legislative
redistricting reform proposal
COLUMBUS – Regarding movement on a bipartisan legislative redistricting
reform proposal in the Ohio House of Representatives, all of the
following may be attributed to Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted: “The
latest proposal in the Ohio House of Representatives provides us with
new hope that a bipartisan redistricting reform plan can be
accomplished before year’s end…
read
more.
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Memories will have to be enough,
By Bob Robinson
She had the face of an angel. I was this pencil thin nerd ‘stick’ who
would go to the beach wearing a button-down shirt and shorts with black
shoes and white socks. My sister Melinda had boys clamoring around her
for as long as I can remember. Being Air Force brats we never stayed in
one place long enough to have many friends, so we made the best of it
and spent much of our time…
read
more.
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From
the Other Side of the Edge…. Orwellian
Protesters, Change Dr. King’s History, …and Legacy,
By Joe Facinoli - On a sweltering August afternoon in 1963, Dr. Martin
Luther King, Jr, the de facto leader, champion, and soul of the
American Civil Rights movement during that time, delivered his forever
iconic, and deeply inspiring “I Have a Dream…” speech, in Washington
DC, before over two hundred thousand fellow Civil Rights travelers,
…and Abraham Lincoln’s ghost. His special words…
read
more.
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State
Representative Jim Buchy… Safety
Concerns Spur Powdered Alcohol Ban
A new product under consideration by the Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) has no place in Ohio until it is proven safe and acceptable for
use by experts at the highest level. I am working on legislation, House
Bill 594, would ban the sale of powdered alcohol in Ohio to protect our
citizens from the risks and dangers associated with this newly created
substance. Powdered alcohol is a substance produced…
read
more.
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Attorney
General Eric Holder… Following
through after Ferguson
Following Michael Brown's tragic death, millions of people across the
nation and around the world have focused their attention on unfolding
events in Ferguson, both grieving together and making their voices
heard. In recent days, many have been captivated by ongoing
developments, anguished emotions, peaceful protests -- and, too often,
deeply unfortunate images of unnecessary destruction…
read
more.
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Broke
Wife, Big City… Some things
don’t need a sequel… like pregnancy, By Aprill Brandon
I am not pregnant. I know, I know. You probably don’t care if I am or
not. Unless you’re my husband, my traumatized dog or my uterus, you
have no stake in my reproductive habits. But let me tell you, typing
out those four words is among the top five best feelings in the world.
Not that I’m anti-children or anything. I love children (except for
that one kid…he knows what he did)…
read
more.
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From
the Other Side of the Edge…. Indictment
Needed: Of an Entire Culture, By Joe Facinoli
Now that a breath of truth has been allowed to surface, in the
Ferguson, Missouri tragedy/turned social and economic fiasco, a few
important things have become glaringly obvious: 1) Had he
lived, Michael Brown himself, would have been indicted, on several
counts, including attempted murder, assault on a police officer,
aggravated assault during a robbery, and perhaps more.
2) All the so…
read
more.
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U.S. Rep. John Boehner… Massive
New Rule Puts Millions of Jobs at Risk
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman John Boehner (R-West Chester) issued the
following statement today on the Obama administration’s costly new
draft Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulation: “The Obama
administration’s massive new regulation - the most expensive rule ever
proposed by the EPA - could slash family budgets by more than $1500 per
year, reduce GDP…
read
more.
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State
Rep. Buchy… Agriculture in the
Classroom, Up and Running in Cleveland and Cincinnati
Fifty years ago in Ohio, the rural school districts looked to the big
cities for the best practices in education. Today, big cities are
looking to rural areas for clues on how to make their schools more
successful. They are focused on increasing graduation rates and
students that are ready for college and the workforce. In rural
Ohio a common denominator in our successful schools is strong families…
read
more.
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Commissioners
Corner… The official holiday
season is upon us
November is becoming a memory, Thanksgiving has come and gone, and old
man winter is approaching. Halloween starts the official Holiday
season, but to most of us, Thanksgiving is the time it really starts.
We hope everyone enjoyed their Thanksgiving, and we hope the family and
friends you shared it with also have a Merry Christmas, which is just
around the corner…
read
more.
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Who is
destroying America? By Jim Surber
This question rises frequently, although more often in the form of a
declaration than a query. The usual alleged culprits are liberals,
their leaders, and/or the anti-religious, which many consider to be one
and the same. We again hear these assertions after the President’s
recent actions on immigration. In the opinion of many, he has
unpardonably sanctioned the breaking of our laws…
read
more.
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U.S. Representative John Boehner… Ohioans
Aren’t Being Fooled by President’s ObamaCare Hype Machine
- The president’s ObamaCare hype machine recently made its rounds
throughout Ohio and across the country – making a stop in Cincinnati to
pitch ObamaCare to our local area. As I’ve said many times, the Obama
administration can try all it wants to “sell” his disastrous health
care law to the American people – but Ohioans aren’t being
fooled. That’s…
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… If my blog
were a sitcom, this would be the Thanksgiving episode,
By Aprill Brandon -- OPENING SCENE: Camera zooms in to clock beside
Aprill’s bed. Time reads 4:43 a.m. Sound of baby crying. APRILL (lying
in bed, eyes still closed): “Nope. No way. (Voice gradually getting
louder) You wish I loved you enough to wake up this early on a holiday!
Go back to sleep, Riker!” Crying continues. APRILL (eyes still closed,
kicking her husband, Ryan, with her leg): “I’ll give…
read
more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Giving
Back to Our Communities This Thanksgiving
As we approach Thanksgiving, Connie and I are reminded of all that we
have to be grateful for this year. For us, the day marks a chance to
gather with family and friends to share a meal and give thanks for our
blessings. For many Ohioans, however, this Thanksgiving marks another
day when they struggle to put food on the table for themselves and
their families. Nearly 1.8 million Ohioans live in poverty…
read
more.
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State
Representative Jim Buchy… CAUV
Has Saved Farmers Billions
The Current Agriculture Use Valuation has been a topic of
discussion lately. I support this modified tax rate for
agricultural land in Ohio because it has saved around $10 billion for
farmers in Ohio since 1973. Unlike previous tax laws, the CAUV is a tax
assessment that allows farmland to be taxed based on its agricultural
value, not on its full market value. The five factors that are included
in the CAUV rate are cropping…
read
more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Addressing
the Rising Cost of Education for Ohio Students
While a college degree continues to be an important goal for so many
Americans, the rising cost of education has left too many Ohio students
wondering how they will afford to pay for school. We know how important
higher education is to the economic security of American households.
M.I.T. economist David Autor recently estimated that, over a lifetime,
workers with a college degree…
read
more.
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From the Other Side of the Edge…. The
Cornered Rat, …Pokes at the Big Dumb Cat,
By Joe Facinoli - Ever seen a rat, get caught in a corner, with no
place to go and no way out? Lights shining brightly on it, hair on end,
eyes wide open, and baring its teeth, as a last resort scare tactic??
Not a pretty sight, and indeed can be a bit scary, …but only to those
who think this creature is still dangerous, and allow it to be just
that, …even though its life may only be a moment from the end…
read
more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Addressing
Infant Mortality on World Prematurity Day
The birth of a child is a cause for celebration. For most families, a
new baby brings feelings of excitement and anticipation for the future.
Unfortunately, one in every nine babies born in the United States is
premature. For these families, the exciting new challenges of feedings
and changings may quickly be overshadowed by the emotionally taxing
challenge of navigating their children’s health complications and…
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… You have
to crawl before you can raid and pillage, By Aprill Brandon
For only being 9-months-old, my son has a lot of interests. I mean, a
LOT of interests. All day long, he’s just interested in everything. For
example, here’s a list of things my son is interested in: Pulling off
his left sock. Dropping heavy, loud things on the floor. Shaking his
head no. At everything. Licking the couch. Licking the dog. Licking my
cellphone. Obviously eating the left sock…
read
more.
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Ohio
Republican Party Update, by Matt Borges
Greetings! It was a big week for Ohio Republican leadership.
Congressman John Boehner was re-elected as Speaker of the United States
House, Ohio Senator Keith Faber was re-elected as Ohio Senate
President, and Ohio Representative Cliff Rosenberger was elected as
Speaker of the Ohio House. Speaker Boehner will continue to serve our
state and country well as the leader of the House…
read
more.
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Boehner
on Attempt to Sell Ohioans on ObamaCare
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Boehner (R – West Chester) today
released the following statement as Health and Human Services Secretary
Sylvia M. Burwell visited Cincinnati in an attempt to sell Ohioans on
the president’s disastrous health care law. “The Obama administration
can try all it wants to ‘sell’ ObamaCare to Ohioans, but the truth is
that local businesses, families, and seniors…
read
more.
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From the Other Side of the
Edge…. The “American Voter”, …or
BHO in a “Mao Suit”. Just WHO is it, …that’s “Stupid”
??!!
By Joe Facinoli - It’s a tie, heading into
overtime. Yes, I know it was a
“gesture”. And yes, other world leaders wore it too,
even Putin, who made it look like a proud warrior’s outfit, oh
btw. But when you are the President of the United States,
and you’re 6’ 2” tall, and 112 pounds, with shoulders like Taylor
Swift, and a posture like Stan…
read
more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown…
Health
Insurance Open Enrollment Begins Tomorrow
Since the beginning of this year, more than 646,000 Ohioans have
obtained a new health insurance plan through the health law—many for
the first time. And starting on Saturday, November 15th, you can enroll
in a new plan or change your coverage on the health exchange. In just a
year, it is clear that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is working.
Because of the health law: Insurance…
read
more.
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U.S. Rep. Brad Wenstrup… You Deserve a Government that Actually
Listens
WASHINGTON, DC – Delivering the Weekly Republican Address, Rep. Brad
Wenstrup (R-OH) highlights the House’s vote to approve the Keystone XL
pipeline and other steps Republicans are taking to help get people back
to work and hold the Obama administration accountable. Key quote: “You
deserve a government that doesn’t just ‘hear you,’ but actually listens
to you…
read
more.
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The White House… Giving thanks to our veterans,
by Vice President Joe Biden
Mike Erwin saw tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. And when he got
home, he kept on serving. When he came home, he started a community
service group. Because, despite everything that Mike had given to his
country by serving overseas, he wanted to serve his country at home, as
well. This morning on Veterans Day, I had the honor of welcoming Mike
and a team of his fellow veterans to the White House…
read
more.
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Ohio Conservative Review… Conservatism and the GOP News Ohio Politics,
By John Adams
Asst. Majority Floor Leader: Battle Lines Drawn in Stacked OH Speaker’s
Race -- Editor news note:
Rosenberger Elected Speaker For Next General Assembly… details in a
future CNO post
-- I ran for a seat in the Ohio House because I strongly disagreed with
those who think and act as though we can tax and spend our way to
prosperity. In 2010, John Kasich sent Governor Strickland packing. At
the time, I had…
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more.
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State Representative Jim
Buchy… Workers Compensation
Refunds to Help Localities
A major focus of Ohio lawmakers ever since Governor Kasich took office
has been to fight for skinny government. Saving local governments money
is part of this fight. As part of this process, the Ohio Attorney
General’s office initiated a program that helps local governments
recover outstanding debt owed to them by Ohioans who didn’t pay their
taxes. Debt recovery services like this are only the start of the
assistance…
read
more.
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U.S. Representative John
Boehner… Seek Opportunities to
Honor Our Veterans Every Day of the Year
- Our veterans have given all a person can give – so that we may live
free – and we owe them a great debt of gratitude. So as we pause to pay
tribute on Veterans Day, let’s not forget that honoring our men and
women in uniform should be a daily honor – all part of a broader pledge
to live up to the promises that our nation has made to them and their
families. While saying…
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more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown…
Honoring Ohio’s
Veterans
On Veterans Day, we pause to remember those who have fought to preserve
the rights we hold dear. This year marks the 60th observance of
Veterans Day and the 95th anniversary of Armistice Day, which
commemorates the end of the First World War. While the heroes of World
War I are no longer with us, we are grateful for their service and for
the service of the brave women…
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… Ever get that feeling you’re being watched?
By Aprill Brandon
My son’s current favorite toy is a stuffed dog. A stuffed dog that
talks. And sings. And lights up. And requests in a bit too perky of a
voice that you hug it. A lot. Like, a lot a lot. And I’m pretty
sure it’s trying to kill me. Oh sure, maybe you could chalk up my
paranoia to watching one too many demented child’s toy-themed horror
movies or too many late nights falling asleep to “The Twilight Zone”
reruns…
read
more.
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From the Other Side of the
Edge…. A 2 x 4 to the Forehead,
…yet Somehow, …still as Arrogant as Ever,
By Joe Facinoli - An old joke pointedly asks the question:
“What does a thousand lawyers, at the bottom of the ocean,
signify?” The answer, of course, is: “A
good start.” Well, we may have indeed gotten that
fortuitous new beginning last Tuesday, in DC, and in numerous, formerly
“Blue” state capitals all around the country. But it seems
at least one serious observer, himself a…
read
more.
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The White House… Here's What's Next, President
Barack Obama
Yesterday, millions of Americans cast their ballots. Republicans had a
good night, and I congratulate all the candidates who won. But what
stands out to me is that the message Americans sent yesterday is one
you've sent for several elections in a row now. You expect the people
you elect to work as hard as you do. You expect us to focus on your
ambitions -- not ours -- and…
read
more.
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Darke County Senior Scribe…
Mother Goose…
Let Loose, By Lois Wilson
Once again Senior Scribe Poet Laureate Lois Wilson delves into politics
with her insightful look at the important events of the day. This time
it’s a follow-up to the voter mandate on Nov. 4. Even President Barack
Obama had to acknowledge the Republicans had “a good day.” You might
find some of the phrasing familiar as Lois decided Mother Goose is an
appropriate…
read
more.
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U.S. Representative
Boehner… Humbled to Serve and
Fight for the People of Ohio's 8th District
Washington, D.C. - Congressman John Boehner (R – West Chester) today
released the following statement after receiving the overwhelming
support of voters in Ohio's 8th Congressional District. “I am so
humbled that the people of the 8th Congressional District have given me
the opportunity to serve them and continue the fight for a smaller,
more accountable, less costly government. With their vote, Ohioans…
read
more.
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Ohio
Republicans Sweep Statewide Office
Ohio Republican Party Chairman Matt Borges issued the following
statement tonight on Republicans sweeping the statewide offices. "Four
years ago our state was at a crossroads and voters decided to give our
Republican team an opportunity to bring Ohio back," said ORP Chairman
Matt Borges. "Four years later our officeholders delivered. Ohio
is coming back and Ohio is working again. Voters are returning…
read
more.
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Commissioners Corner… Time to reflect and be thankful
The month of October is now gone. Harvesting, Halloween, and raking
leaves, are all either done or nearly so. As November and the start of
the Holiday season rolls around, it is time to reflect and be thankful
for the good things that have happened here in the County. I am sure
that the farmers are very grateful for what looks like a bountiful
harvest this year, and…
read
more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… The Mom Haircut and other parental
sacrifices, By Aprill Brandon
I fought it for as long as I could. Because I was the cool mom. The
edgy mom. The mom with the perfectly messy Botticelli-esque curls
cascading halfway down my back like one of those vacant-eyed models
randomly jumping in a field of wildflowers in an Urban Outfitters
catalog. Except in reality, my long, wavy hair was always tied up in a
school marm bun because my 8-month-old son has made it his…
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more.
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Thanks
for voting! By Commissioner Mike Stegall
I would like to thank the people of Darke County for turning out to
vote on Nov. 4th. Voting is one of our most precious rights, and
we as citizens need to express our opinion whenever we get the
chance. I do not understand why anyone would not get out and vote
nowadays, since it is so easy, and you can basically do it at your
convenience. I could give the speech about how people died for
this privilege, how the forefathers…
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more.
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From the Other Side of the
Edge…. Idiot Nurse, …Idiot
Doctor, …Idiot (and Arrogant) Americans,
By Joe Facinoli - What do you call the student who graduated last in
their class, at Medical School?? Unfortunately, we would still have to
call them: “Doctor”. What would you say to the
student who finished last in their class, in Nursing School ?? Just as
unfortunately, if we didn’t call them “Nurse Ratchett”, for their
probable personality, and predictable bedside manner, we would be
forced to…
read
more.
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Darke County Senior Scribe…
Another look at
politics… Mother Goose Abuse, By Lois Wilson
Once again Senior Scribe Poet Laureate Lois Wilson is on top of the
season with her insightful look at the important events of the day. For
the second time this season it’s politics. Wilson offers a series of
poems, each addressing a different look at our coming trip to the
polls, then touching on another possibility two years down the road.
Wilson's completed set - five volumes - of published poetry is now
available…
read
more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown…
Protecting
Consumers from the Dangers of
Powdered Caffeine
In May, Dennis and Kate Stiner faced a tragedy that no parent should
have to endure. Their son Logan – a student athlete at Keystone High
School in LaGrange, who planned on attending the University of Toledo
this fall – died from ingesting too much powdered caffeine three days
before his high school graduation. Since then, the Stiners have become
courageous advocates for consumer safety so that no other…
read
more.
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State Representative Jim
Buchy… Ohio Legislature Backs
Innovative Program to Help Local Governments
- A few years ago Ohio’s economy was on a downward spiral, our credit
rating was downgraded and our state was in a fiscal mess. When
Governor Kasich took office we balanced the budget which required
making up for an $8 billion dollar budget hole; and we did it without
raising taxes. Making difficult decisions was necessary at this
time. As the economy went down…
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more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… Oh my gourd, she murdered a pumpkin,
By Aprill Brandon
I was 33 when I murdered and mutilated the dead body of my first
pumpkin. I know. I know. How did I ever manage to make it this far in
my life without committing veggiecide? I mean, ripping out the slimy
entrails of innocent gourds is practically a rite of passage in this
country. Even kindergartners are handed a knife and told to stab a
pumpkin in the face. Well, it’s a long story, kids. One that I’m
probably going…
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more.
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The White House... An Ebola update from an NIH medical expert
Dr. Anthony Fauci, infectious disease chief at the National Institutes
of Health (NIH), recently sat down to share an update on Ebola. He
spoke about the measures the Administration is taking to respond to
Ebola cases at home, while containing the epidemic at its source in
West Africa. Speaking from his office at the NIH headquarters in
Bethesda, MD, Dr. Fauci stressed that Ebola is not an easily…
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more.
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Ohio Republican Party… Greetings! Update from
Chairman Matt Borges
9 Days until Election Day! Our team is working hard to get our
Republican leaders elected. On Saturday we had over 620 volunteers
reaching out to voters across every one of our 88 counties. Over 30,000
doors were knocked and more than 31,820 phone calls were made. That's a
solid start to our final Get Out the Vote push. Thank you to everyone
that participated. The next nine days we must work even…
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more.
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State Representative Jim
Buchy… Review of the Law
Enforcement Study Committee
As I travel west central Ohio, I continue to hear concerns about the
growing drug problem in our region—and how it is affecting the entire
state. I have always been in favor of fighting drugs because they
tear our families apart and cripple the workforce. That is why I
traveled the state this summer to learn more about this problem and the
obstacles that slow law enforcement’s ability to respond…
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more.
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State Representative
Richard Adams… Battling Breast
Cancer and Raising Awareness
I hope this October, you’ve been able to join with others across the
nation to honor, remember and reflect on the brave individuals who have
battled, and are currently battling, breast cancer. First established
in 1985, the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign seeks to
generate attention for the disease and raise funds for research on its
prevention, treatment, and…
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more.
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U.S. Representative
Boehner… Solving Our Spending
Problem is the Key to Saving Medicare
This time of year, many seniors in our area have questions about
Medicare, as Medicare Open Enrollment is from now until December
7. That’s why my office stands ready to assist any constituents
who may have questions about the Medicare Open Enrollment period or are
experiencing issues with receiving benefits. For more information
about services available to seniors in Ohio’s Eighth Congressional
District…
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more.
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Darke County Senior Scribe…
It’s that time
of year… again! By Lois Wilson
Once again Senior Scribe Poet Laureate Lois Wilson is on top of the
season with her insightful look at the important events of the day.
This time it’s politics. Wilson offers two poems, each addressing a
different look at the ludicrous antics of the political process. First
there’s the eternal Pelosi, who is often remembered (not so fondly) for
her famous statement: “We’ll know what’s in the bill when we pass it.”
Then there’s the winsome…
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more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown…
Ending
Veterans' Homelessness in Ohio
In gratitude for their courage and sacrifice for our nation, my office
helps U.S. veterans access their medical and disability benefits and
the overdue or replacement medals that they have earned for their
military service. At a ceremony at the Hamilton County Courthouse in
Cincinnati last week – where I had the honor of presenting a Vietnam
War veteran with seven medals…
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more.
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Excesses,
new and old, in political campaigns, By Jim Surber
Recent bantering in online comments about the huge amounts spent in
modern Presidential campaigns got me to thinking. Is our spending on
this unprecedented? I decided to do a little research, to learn how our
ancestors dealt with this event, and was surprised at what I found. In
the early years of the republic, gentlemen would be asked by other
elite leaders to "stand" for political office, and the candidate's
commonly-acknowledged…
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more.
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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 whether 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…
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more.
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Ohio Republican Party… Greetings! Matt Borges
Editor’s Note: Borges recently attended the Darke County Republican Pig
Roast. 16 days until Election Day! There is no time to let up.
The Democratic turnout the vote machine is in full swing and we must
surpass them. Ohio's unemployment rate fell to 5.6% in September, down
from 7.4% this time last year. It was only four short years ago that
unemployment was skyrocketing and Ohio's future was on unsteady…
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more.
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From the Other Side of the Edge…. Political Witch Doctors, …doing the Ebola
“Heap Good Medicine” Dance,
By Joe Facinoli - No disrespect to Native American medical
“practitioners”, of a time long ago, but even those guys would have a
better chance at curing Ebola, and tending for those inflicted with it,
than what we’ve got going for us, …today. With a full spiritual
commitment to their purposeful rituals and dances, and their artfully
crafted, songful cadences of hypnotic…
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more.
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State Representative Jim Buchy… Continued Interest in Reducing Nutrient
Loading in Ohio Waterways
- Lake Erie covers almost 10,000 square miles and serves as a source of
pride for the State of Ohio. Acting as the north coast of Ohio,
this lake is a natural landmark known throughout North America and
beyond. Keeping the water in the lake potable and healthy is an
important task that all Ohioans should be a part of. Lake Erie is a
major source of tourism in the…
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more.
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U.S. Representative John Boehner… Travel Ban Should Be Considered by
President as Ebola Crisis Worsens
- WASHINGTON, D.C. -- “Our hearts go out to the health care workers who
have contracted the Ebola virus here in the United States, as well as
those who have been impacted by it around the globe. We pray for
their speedy recovery, and we pray for those who are helping to treat
and care for these individuals, including our medical experts and
military personnel who…
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more.
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Little
Pictures, By Mona Lease
Hi, all!! Ok readers - Hands up - how many of you remember hearing not
to borrow trouble - it will come soon enough on its own? I think
trouble is here. I think we are trying to treat a "symptom" and the
disease (if you will) goes unchecked. Remember our local school board
wanting to pass a new levy a few years ago now? It failed the first two
or three times. Now it's passed. Remember the president of the school
board resigning and telling…
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more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Enforcing Trade Laws to Boost Exports and
Support Ohio Businesses
-- When I travel across Ohio, I hear from business owners who have
successfully expanded their companies, created jobs, and sold their
products in foreign markets. In 2013, Ohio exports totaled a
record-breaking $50.8 billion. To quantify that, every $1 billion in
exports supports nearly 5,000 domestic jobs. And in Ohio, more than one
quarter of our state's manufacturing jobs rely on exports. Last week, I
joined…
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more.
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Broke Wife, Big City… Mommies don’t get sick days,
By Aprill Brandon
I regret a lot of things. The fringe vest I wore for my seventh grade
school photo. That time I asked for a “pixie haircut” and instead spent
half of my junior year in college walking around with a mullet. Pretty
much all of 2004. I even regret things I haven’t done yet, like when I
finally finish this six pound burrito sitting right beside me. I’m
going to eat it all. I know this. I’m going to hate myself for eating
it all. I know this. And yet…
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more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Preventing the Spread of Ebola in the
United States
Over the last few weeks, we have heard a lot about the Ebola virus. The
stories from Africa are heartbreaking – countries with limited
resources are fighting to contain the disease and in many cases it is
spreading faster than it can be controlled. In Liberia, Ebola cases are
doubling every 15-20 days, with a million cases possible in western
Africa by the end of the year if the current trends continue…
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more.
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From the Other Side of the Edge…. Ebola: Just more of the Politics of
NonSense,
By Joe Facinoli - It’s always about the “Spin” today. First,
last, and always, …it’s about how something can be “Spun”, to best
political advantage. No matter who gets hurt, nor how many people might
be negatively affected, …even if thousands of those people (or more)
eventually die. It’s always about how the individuals charged with
running things, the governments they belong…
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more.
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State Representative Jim Buchy… Sound Money Management of Public Dollars
When I was sworn in as a State Representative the first time around, I
made it clear to my constituents that sound money management would be a
focus of my time in the legislature. Today, I continue to work
for better handling of public moneys because taxpayers worked hard to
earn that money. In west central Ohio, we have some of the best locally
elected officials and they are good stewards…
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more.
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The White House… One American's perspective
I watched the President speak about the economy earlier today -- maybe
you did, too. He talked about how, even though we've rebounded from
recession faster than almost every other advanced nation, we've still
got a lot of work to do when it comes to rebuilding the middle class.
It's easy to hear that and ask yourself, "What does the President mean
when he talks about…
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more.
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Ohio Republican Party… Portman works for Senate control
Today is the last day to register to vote in Ohio and early voting
starts tomorrow! As we fight to keep Ohio's comeback going, I
wanted to make sure you knew about Senator Portman's efforts, not only
in Ohio, but to take back the United States Senate. Republicans
have our best chance in a long time to take back the Senate and begin
implementing reforms like we've seen in…
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more.
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U.S. Representative John Boehner… Steps at the VA are Just the Beginning
Hearing directly from veterans in our own region on the veterans’
benefit claims backlog is what led to my pressing the Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA) for answers and accountability years ago.
Our veterans deserve nothing less. What we eventually uncovered were
full-blown systemic problems at the VA. I know I’m not alone in how
outraged I was by the horror stories, and we’re not going to let up
until the issues at the VA are finally resolved…
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more.
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U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Investing in Ohio Manufacturing and
Innovation
In Ohio, and across the United States, manufacturing is helping to lead
our economic recovery. Manufacturing has a larger multiplier effect
than any other industry. For every $1.00 spent in manufacturing,
another $1.48 is added to the economy. Ohio manufacturers are some of
the most competitive in the world and workers are innovating right on
the shop floor. To make manufacturing's recovery permanent, we must
support American…
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more.
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The White House… I may never get to stand on the podium
It was New Year's Eve in 2009 when my helmet saved my life. Training
for the Winter Olympics in Utah, I was at the top of competitive
snowboarding when I suffered a life-threatening traumatic brain injury
that I'm still recovering from to this day. And while I can never
snowboard competitively again, I hope to be a voice for the millions of
Americans who grapple with diseases of the brain. Until my injury, I
didn't spend too much time…
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more.
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From the Other Side of the Edge….. but We’re all Going to Die from Ebola, …anyway,
By Joe Facinoli - We have, very clearly in my estimation, lost our path
as a nation, and a society. The proof of that, is all
around us, …in abundance. We should be celebrating life, in and about
this glorious country, and our wondrous good fortune, at having been
born in the midst of all the amazing opportunities it presents. Instead
of being drawn into all the fretful, sickening, and deceitful situations…
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more.
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Commissioners Corner... Summer’s over… enjoy the fall weather and
events
As the month of September comes to a close, we are reminded that colder
weather is just around the corner. This has certainly been a nice cool
spring and summer, and if the Farmer’s Almanac is correct, we are in
for a cold, snowy winter. But for now, let’s enjoy the fall
colors, the cooler weather, all the High School sports…
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more.
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State Senator Bill Beagle… Changing the Face of Manufacturing in Ohio
If someone asked you to name a career that was innovative and
challenging, in a precise and highly advanced field, what industry
comes to mind? If you answered manufacturing, you’d be right. October
is the third annual “Ohio Manufacturing Month” and October 3 is
“National Manufacturing Day,” and here in the Miami Valley we take this
opportunity to celebrate those working in this growing industry. The
days of dark and dirty manufacturing jobs…
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more.
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Representative Jim Buchy… Shelby County: A Place Filled with
Opportunity
West central Ohio is the best place in the world to live, work and rear
a family. I am fortunate that our local papers print Statehouse
Updates, but often we forget to talk about how great our local
communities are. For the past few months I have periodically
focused a column on the unique characteristics that make each county in
western Ohio the best place to live, work and rear a family…
read
more.
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