Opinion Darke County News Online

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The Robinson Chronicles… The Giggle Sisters, By Bob Robinson
Children are phenomenal creatures. Teaching at Edison and subbing in our local schools has been a blessing… both have allowed me to learn about and (hopefully) understand the diversity of our youth, the young people who will be leading our country in the years to come. My college population has ranged from 15 to 55 (all children by my standards). The high school students are typically... read more.

Answering Life’s Biggest Questions… Sound advice to Hot Mess… join the mom mob, By Abigail Fischer and Katie DeLand -- Dear A&K, The other day, the struggle was real. I was at the grocery with my two young children, and things were out of control.... In fact, the lady behind me offered to pay for my groceries because I appeared to be in distress. Please make me feel better! Sincerely, Hot Mess in the Hot Cocoa Aisle. Dear Hot Mess, This weekly adventure does not go unnoticed, and we are here... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Ending the Cycle of Addiction
Drug overdoses are on the rise across Ohio and opioid abuse, in particular, has wreaked havoc across our state, devastating thousands of families. In 2014, more people in Ohio died from drug overdoses than any year on record. A staggering 2,482 Ohioans died from overdoses in 2014, including a record number of prescription drug overdoses and 1,177 overdose... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Defending the Taxpayer, Growing the Economy
In western Ohio we have been fortunate to have excellent job creators who invest heavily in the local communities. Their ingenuity and fiscal responsibility has created jobs across the entire region. However, in some areas of Ohio, it can be difficult for businesses to obtain the capital needed to expand. Providing more options is important while... read more.

The perils of those rankings, By Susan Olling
It’s come a long way from its start as a Roman Catholic seminary in Emmitsburg, Maryland in the early 19th century to a national news story in 21st century. Here’s what can happen when a university hires a president with a finance background. Why a university would hire, as its president, someone with no professional higher education on his CV... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… The real reason I’m only having two kids, By Aprill Brandon
My baby just turned 2-years-old. My teeny, tiny, itty-bitty, little baby is now a steak-chewin’, question-askin’, opinion-havin’ little man. Sigh. Ah, how time flies and all that. Of course, any time you get to celebrate a child’s birthday, it’s a time of joy. Perhaps a bittersweet joy but a joy nonetheless. And it remains a joy all the way up until the moment your adorable, big-eyed offspring... read more.

Buchy… Could Pharmaceutical Marijuana have Benefits without a High?
Medical marijuana has been the subject of a growing discussion because new research is pointing to certain positive results from a medical standpoint. Science is also become successful in producing a product that can provide medical benefits without the high, this product can be referred to as pharmaceutical marijuana. We must work to keep marijuana... read more.

Happy Birthday, Farmer Washington, By Susan Olling
There’s one “holiday” with which I have a real problem. That would be Presidents’ Day, which fell on 15 Feb. The Uniform Holiday Bill of 1968 moved George Washington’s birthday, among other holidays, to a designated Monday in order to give federal employees additional three-day weekends. The bill did not officially establish Presidents’ Day or... read more.

The Robinson Chronicles… Thank you, Mr. Stith, By Bob Robinson
I don’t remember much about my grade school years, except for a 100 percent on a math final when I was in the fifth grade in Washingtonville, New York. I was – and am – proud of that accomplishment. Two years later I found myself in Lincoln, Nebr., where I finally had an opportunity to settle into a routine that didn’t involve the Air Force transferring dad from one part of the country to another, sometimes every six months... read more.

Answering Life's Biggest Questions… Sound advice for Frazzled
Dear Abby and Katie: I am a mom and often feel like I get nothing done, EVER. Can you commiserate? Any suggestions for efficiency or practical advice? Sincerely, Frazzled in the Family Room. Dear Frazzled: Can we commiserate? Sweet child, we can write an entire book on failures of our domestic duties. We know the drill- you start out with a lofty to-do list to cross off as the minutes tick by... read more.

Antonin Scalia R.I.P., By Kate Burch
When I learned, Saturday, of Antonin Scalia’s sudden death, I was shocked and saddened. This brilliant, witty, principled, and humane Supreme Court Justice was a national treasure. One of the best. Ever. I was also frightened, as I immediately could predict the reaction of the administration and the Democrats: literally licking their lips as they... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… Adventures in home haircutting, By Aprill Brandon
When it comes down to it, despite our differences, I think all parents want the same thing for their children. And that thing is that their kid doesn’t end up killing them as revenge for a horrifyingly awful home haircut they received when they were 2-years-old. No? Just me then? Well, rejoice and sleep tight tonight because I sure as hell never will again. I’m not even sure how it all got so out of control... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Getting a Passport May Take Longer Next Year
U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) is alerting Ohioans to an upcoming surge in passport applications that could increase processing times. It is expected that 45 million passports will expire between 2016 and 2018 — 17.4 million in 2016 and 20.9 million in 2017. Due to the high volume of expiring passports, Ohioans whose passports will be expiring in the coming year should renew as soon as possible... read more.

The Robinson Chronicles… The depths of diversity, By Bob Robinson
It was 1957. My four cousins and I were gathered around the television watching a horror movie in Maryland Heights, a suburban community of St. Louis. It was the local offering of the Saturday Fright Night that seemed to be popular in many parts of the country. It was a black and white movie, the “Invasion of the Body Snatchers.” Aliens arrived in the form of “spores,” which turned into “pods,” which... read more.

Answering Life’s Biggest Questions… Faceless advised to keep cool on Facebook, By Abigail Fischer and Katie DeLand -- Dear Abby and Katie: I am having a social media crisis- a very real love/hate relationship with Facebook. On one hand, it's great to keep up with my college roommate and her blossoming family, but on the other it makes me hate her for her constant work-out updates and new car purchases. Am I just a jealous person or is this a problem bigger than me? Sincerely, Faceless on Facebook... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Protecting Ohioans from Lead Poisoning
The water crisis in Flint, Michigan, is attracting a lot of attention lately — and rightfully so. But while we work to help the people of Flint, we must also remember that Flint is not the only town where families face exposure to dangerous levels of lead. Right here in Ohio, in the Village of Sebring, we know there are troubling amounts of lead in the water. No parent should... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… With liberty and naps for all, By Aprill Brandon
There are a lot of things wasted on the young. Youth. Beauty. A ridiculously high metabolism. Expensive toys when junk mail and an empty shampoo bottle are apparently just as exotic and entertaining. But perhaps worst of all are naps. Naps are so completely wasted on the young. Yet we hand them out to children like beads on Mardi Gras. Yes, we, the parents, who haven’t had a chance... read more.

The Robinson Chronicles… Starting off the new year at CNO, By Bob Robinson
First off… have you checked out Community Events Photo Gallery and CNO Sports Photos lately? If you haven’t you’ve been missing out on new postings almost daily for the past two weeks. Check them out at the links below! In December CNO added two new Facebook pages. You can get nightly updates at BobRobinsonCNO, and... read more.

Killing the Goose, By Kate Burch
Listening earlier this week to some candidates for our County Commission made me curious about the financial health of our county and city. Casual observation reveals many abandoned houses in our city (over 7,000, I have learned), broken curbs and potholed streets. When my family moved to the area in 1956, it was quite prosperous, with... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Free Tax Help: Get Your Maximum Refund
Last month federal tax filing season opened, and Ohioans need all the information available for them to get as much of their hard-earned money back in their pockets as possible. On Friday we marked Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Awareness Day, dedicated to getting the word out about the tax credit that can be a lifeline for working families. Last year... read more.

State Rep. Buchy… Nullifying President Obama’s Executive Overreach on Guns
President Obama is forcing new gun control policies on Americans. In doing so he’s trampling on the Constitution. It is time for states to stand up against these regulations that have gone too far. In January, President Obama went around Congress to expand U.S. gun control laws using an executive action that many are calling illegal. The President.... read more.

Commissioner’s Corner… Darke County’s unemployment is at 4 percent
Welcome to 2016! Here’s hoping that everyone had a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year! The ringing in of a new year always brings new hope of better things to come, and this year is no different. We in the Commissioner’s office are looking forward to another good year, continuing our progress as we have the last few years. As of this... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… Go play outside & try really hard not to die, sweetie, By Aprill Brandon
Ah, winter. That beautiful time of year when everything dies and the air hurts your face and your soul turns as gray as week-old snow. It’s such a pity it only lasts four months, a mere one hundred and twenty thousand million days too long. On the plus side, all this miserable weather makes it damn near impossible to leave your house, which means you and your entire family get to stare... read more.

I’ll take the snow, By Susan Olling
It’s been a week since the Blizzard of 2016, or Snowstorm Jonas as some are christening it. Why someone started naming winter storms is mystifying. Perhaps too much time on his/her hands? Anyway, there’s been much here in the greater D.C. environs to observe in the past week. Some good, some bad, and some funny. Kudos are in order for the following. Pepco. As recently as 2010, storms... read more.

Senator Brown… Summer Break Shouldn't Mean Going Hungry for Ohio Children
Last week, I outlined my top priorities for the upcoming year — and I am getting to work immediately on one of them: renewing and expanding nutrition programs that ensure Ohio children don’t go hungry, particularly during the summer months. One-quarter of Ohio’s children live in households that have experienced hunger during the past year, and childhood... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Properly Calculating School Performance
Recently, our children have come under increased pressure due to a drastic increase in school testing. With the number of testing hours reaching a threshold that bordered on unhealthy for our children, it was clear that the legislature needed to step in to help reduce the stress level placed on the students. This is why I introduced House Bill 7 last year... read more.

Snow follies in the nation’s capital, By Susan Olling
We had a tiny amount of snow last Wednesday that created parking lots where roads used to be. It took Mr. History two hours to get home. Others had equally long drives. Local government officials were apologizing profusely, as well they should have, for not pretreating roads beforehand. People were wondering what would happen after the Blizzard... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… 8 things I’ll do differently with my second baby, By Aprill Brandon
1. Accept any and all help -- If you would have told me three years ago that I’d be the kind of new mom who felt she had to do everything herself, I would have laughed so hard at you I would’ve farted, laughed even harder, farted even harder and then finished chugging my comically large glass of wine. But let me tell you, the second I heard my first born’s screams, it felt like they were physically... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… A Busy Year Ahead
In his final State of the Union address last week, President Obama said that “the future we want — opportunity and security for our families; a rising standard of living and a sustainable, peaceful planet for our kids — all that is within our reach.” The record-breaking 2015 auto sales we celebrated this month are case in point. From the auto rescue, which... read more.

How Do They Get Away With It? By Kate Burch
In an outrageous but depressingly predictable ploy, Hillary Clinton, other Democrats, and the media are blaming Michigan Governor Rick Snyder for the contaminated water supply to Flint, Michigan. The Governor, a la Harry Truman, has acknowledged that the buck stops at his desk and it is his responsibility, as the chief elected officer in the state... read more.

MSN.com… How to prepare for this weekend’s high-impact winter storm, Angela Fritz, Washington Post - A severe winter storm with double-digit snowfall totals and potential white-out conditions is just around the corner. Many roads will be impassable and businesses may be shut down. Now is the time to prepare. What’s so remarkable about this impending storm is the long duration of wintry precipitation. Snow looks likely to start falling... read more.

Metro still has issues, but the football’s good, By Susan Olling
It’s just January, but there’s been some comment-worthy things going on in the greater D.C. environs. Until recently, I’ve believed that using our little subway system means being on an adventure. Unfortunately, adventure may not be quite the correct word that regular riders, including yours truly, would use at the moment. I’m not worried... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Don't Pull The Rug Out From Under Ohio Auto Jobs
Last week we received confirmation of what so many of us in Ohio have known all along: that you should never bet against the American auto industry. Americans bought more cars last year than ever before, defying naysayers and proving once again that we made the right call in 2010 when we passed the auto rescue. We protected Ohio jobs up and down... read more.

Representative Buchy… Make a New Years Resolution-Stop Smokeable Medical Marijuana
Just hours after Ohioans soundly stood up against marijuana by rejecting state Issue 3 in November, some public officials began discussing various ways of addressing the issue of medical marijuana in the future. I have made clear my opposition to recreational use of marijuana, and I do not think any form of smokeable marijuana should be permitted. But I do think... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… Pregnancy the second time around, By Aprill Brandon
Now that I’m the mother of an almost 2-year-old with another baby on the way, I’m an expert at pretty much everything. Ha! Kidding. That’s all those other blogs written by smug parents of small children that I can’t stop hate-reading. I, on the other hand, almost take a kind of perverted pride in just how little I have figured out about life, let alone about parenthood. I mean, I have no less... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… TPP in 2016
This week, the Senate reconvened to begin another year of legislative business. One major question this new year will be: Will Congress pass the massive, job-killing Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)? For decades, politicians have sold Americans the same bill of goods: they have promised that big trade deals would help middle-class workers by... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… This Monday: MLK Day National Day of Service
Monday, January 18th is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day — an opportunity for us to reflect on the life and work of Dr. King, who devoted himself to making this country a better place. Dr. King left behind a legacy of activism and civil disobedience, fighting for civil rights and against racism and economic inequality — urging our nation to live up to its full potential as... read more.

Buchy… Fixing a Broken Unemployment Compensation System
Throughout this past decade our nation and state has had financial ups and downs, which has caused people to rely on unemployment benefits. In Ohio, our system was maxed out with the federal government having to pay the bill during the last decade. Following this, taxes were raised on employers to make up that lost money. Although many Ohioans are... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… Grocery shopping with your spouse 101, By Aprill Brandon
There are a lot of ways to get to know your significant other better. And let’s face it, no matter how much you think you know, there are always more things you can learn about them. Human beings are vastly complicated creatures. That’s why no one has yet been able to explain why we like sodomizing dead birds with other dead birds in the form of turducken or why we willingly inject poison... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Responding to meat alternatives
An article recently published in the Dayton Daily News, headlined “Research ramping up for alternatives to meat,” caught my attention. While I support both free market ingenuity and entrepreneurship, I am concerned that the effort to replace meat on the dinner table with a “meat alternative” could end up having adverse effects on Ohio’s meat industry. Not only... read more.

Greenville City Schools Update January 2016, Superintendent Doug Fries
On behalf of the entire school district I would like to thank the Greenville community for your support of our operational renewal levy that was on the ballet this past November. Your ongoing support of the school district is greatly appreciated. It is our pleasure to partner the school district with the community to make Greenville a great place to live, work and go to school. Greenville City Schools... read more.

Too Much of a Good Thing, By Kate Burch
The astounding level of support for Donald Trump in this political season seems to be attributable, in large part, to his stated positions about dealing with immigration. His promises to take measures to stop the influx of illegal aliens, enforce our immigration laws, and provide no path to citizenship for illegals resonate with many Americans who are rightly concerned... read more.

Remarks by the President on Common-Sense Gun Safety Reform, President Barack Obama - East Room - THE PRESIDENT: Thank you. (Applause.) Thank you. Thank you, everybody. Please have a seat. Thank you. (Applause.) Thank you so much. Mark, I want to thank you for your introduction. I still remember the first time we met, the time we spent together, and the conversation we had about Daniel. And that changed me that day. And my hope... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Make a New Years Resolution-Stop Black-out Beer
Ohio’s growing craft beer industry has likely been a subject of your Christmas discussions. You may have even sampled many of Ohio’s fine products. We should continue to promote that growth but we must be mindful of the dangers of beer over 12% alcohol by volume (ABV). Beer over 12% ABV, which is Ohio’s current limit will have a very different impact on... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… The beauty of pregnancy *fart* *burp* *sob* By Aprill Brandon
I made myself a promise, you guys. A promise back months ago when I was lying sleepily in my husband’s arms discussing expanding our little family. A promise that the next time I got pregnant I wouldn’t complain. Not even a little bit. Because creating life is a beautiful thing. And I should be so lucky to get to experience it all again. Aaaaaaand then I got pregnant again... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Preparing for Ice and Snow on the Roads
Winter is upon us and that means dropping temperatures, snow, and ice. Each year, the Ohio Department of Transportation and local authorities work endlessly to make sure that our roads are clear and safe through these rough winter conditions. ODOT spends around $50 Million a year to keep 1700 plows on the road laying 650,000 tons of salt from 200 ODOT... read more.

I had the Strangest Dream, By Bob Robinson
As we move into the New Year, with all the challenges facing us, I wanted to revisit a column I wrote 12 years ago, published in my book, “God Don’t Make Junk; the Ramblings of an Old Man,” and have often used as a speech to various groups, including some of my communications classes at Edison… “Last night I had the strangest dream... “I never... read more.

Do we need to refocus? By George Starks
There are many of my readers out there that served our great nation and possibly served with or next to me in one uniform or another. There are several that I graduated with that served with one suffering with cancer. One of my closest buddies served in the Marine Corps in Vietnam. Many of you have thanked us over the course of time for our service and... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Wishing you the best this New Year
As we prepare our pork and sauerkraut we have an opportunity to reflect on the blessings of the past year and prepare for the coming year. New Years is celebrated differently around the world which raises the question; how did the New Year’s celebration start, and why isJanuary 1st the first day of a new year? Looking back, the holiday of the New Year dates... read more.

The Year that Was, By Susan Olling
‘Tis the season to look back on the year that was. With your indulgence, here are a few tongue-in-cheek awards to those who made 2015 so, um, interesting. And gave me things to write about. Cue the kazoo fanfare, and please hold your applause until the end. The Overdone Gesture Resulting in the Fingernails-on-a-Blackboard... read more.

From the Other Side of the Edge…. “My very un-PC, Company Christmas Party,” By Joe Facinoli
Just had my first company CHRISTMAS party (for Unified Cleaning & Construction Services, ...first one ever, after 5 years! ), on Sat. 12-19-15, and there was not a single complaint about the season, the reason for the season, nor anything else! Wonder why? Had it at "La Chiquita", an El Salvadoran restaurant in Langley Park, MD (near DC, where... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Celebrating this Season of Giving
As another year comes to a close, and many of us gather with loved ones to celebrate holidays important to our faiths and filled with traditions dear to our families, I’m reminded of the incredible spirit of giving that I witness throughout our state. Across Ohio, volunteers and dedicated staff members work at organizations like the Joseph House in... read more.

Commissioners Corner… Merry Christmas!
. . . In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. And all went to be registered, each to his own town. And Joseph went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… I’m sorry, Mom. Really, really sorry. By Aprill Brandon
There’s nothing quite like the end of the year to make you look around and take stock of your life. And as I sit here with little green Army men imbedded (probably permanently) in my hair, in a house that looks like my toddler is the world’s youngest demolitions expert, while trying not to vomit because the 10-week-old fetus inside me is pumping me full of high-octane, weapons-grade hormones... read more.

The Ongoing Assault, By Kate Burch
In the midst of pervasive turmoil: the terrorist massacre in San Bernardino, potential rioting in Baltimore over the Freddie Gray matter, bomb threats and active shooter situations on the news nearly every day, it is too easy to neglect attending to last Saturday’s Paris climate agreement and its potential for extreme economic harm to the United States... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… Christmas through the ages, By Aprill Brandon
I don’t know about you, but this year I want to celebrate Christmas the way it was always meant to be celebrated: opening presents and then getting day drunk and then eating a huge dinner I did NOT prepare and then dozing off on the couch to the sounds of “A Christmas Story” as someone else does the dishes. Sounds perfect, no? Except I can’t. I can’t because I’m an adult... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… President Obama’s Energy Mandates Threaten Ohio’s Economic Growth - President Obama’s emissions and clean energy mandates will slow our economy and raise electric bills. The price tag for the President’s mandates will plague Americans even after President Obama becomes distant memory. A majority of the energy requirements that make up the Environmental Protection Agency’s 111d section will require... read more.

Child tantrums and adult tantrums, Dr. Melissa Martin, Ph.D.
Do you have a temper tantrum over your child’s temper tantrum? When your child is rolling around on the floor and crying, the main thing is for the parent or guardian to stay unruffled. Take a few deep breaths. Check your emotions and your reactions. Is this a tantrum that can be ignored? It is less difficult to ignore a tantrum at home as opposed to being in the middle of a busy grocery store... read more.

The White House… Finally a fix to No Child Left Behind
If you’re like me, you probably dread an overdue notice, whether it’s for registering your car or returning a library book. For nearly a decade, our national K-12 education law has been overdue for revision, and parents, teachers, and students across the country have made it clear that it is time for a reboot. Over that period of time, America’s fourth graders became today’s high school seniors... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… All I want Christmas is world peace…and eggnog, By Aprill Brandon
Dear Santa, Hey there, big guy. I know it's been a long time since I've written to you and for that I apologize. I just figured I should probably lay low for about a decade or so after that infamous "incident" in 1989. But you'll be happy to hear that I've finally learned my lesson and my probation, which forbids me from going within 1,000 feet of any and all reindeer, ends in just a few days... read more.

Commissioner’s Corner… November started the appropriations process
The Holiday Season is now officially underway! November ushers in the start with Thanksgiving, and ending in January with the New Year. If you are like most of us, we started the season with eating way too much for Thanksgiving! Of course, the purpose is to give thanks for our many blessings, and that includes a bountiful harvest. We... read more.

An action followed by a reaction, By Susan Olling
This year has seen a number of “speed limit” anniversaries of historic events. It’s been 800 years since the Magna Carta was signed in Runnymede, England. It’s been 600 years since the Battle of Agincourt (the next cross-channel invasion would occur over 500 years later). It’s been seventy years since the end of World War Two and fifty years since the U.S. pulled out of Vietnam. Another event... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Economic Growth During the Holidays
Every year, Ohioans anticipate the busy holiday shopping season and the great deals that come with it. What many don’t consider is the impact that this shopping season has on the state’s economy. Since 2010, Christmas sales have gone up 15.2% according to the Ohio Department of Taxation, growing at a rate of 3.7% each year. Last Christmas alone, Ohio brought in $240 million in sales taxes... read more.

Biting kids, Dr. Melissa Martin, Ph.D.
Why do children bite? Biting is a phase of child development. Babies bite when they are teething to relieve gum pain. Toddlers use their mouths to explore the world. What do children bite others? It may be due to frustration or to get instant attention. Biting a person gets an intense reaction. Parents need to discourage biting at an early age by saying, “Please use your words to tell me when you... read more.

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 26th and will run through February 7th, while deer gun season will begin on November 30th and... read more.

Coffee with the Commissioner… A Thank You
Next Coffee Jan. 9, Wayne Lakes - Before I became Commissioner, I decided I would go out once a month and try and meet people over coffee and breakfast to let them know what I thought, and let people tell me what they thought a commissioner should be. I called those events “Coffee with the Candidate”. They were always entertaining, and let me... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Giving Thanks
As families come together across Ohio this week to celebrate Thanksgiving, Connie and I are reminded of all that we have to be grateful for this year. We welcomed a new granddaughter — with another grandchild on the way — and we will have the joy and privilege of gathering with our friends and family this Thursday to share good food and to give thanks for our blessings. But during this week, we also... read more.

State Rep. Jim Buchy… Local Agriculture Helps Put Food on the Table this Thanksgiving
In this turkey carving season we often forget our role in putting the Thanksgiving meal on the table. In western Ohio, we are blessed with so many fine farming families, and many working individuals who help to export our agricultural products to the world. The truth is this Thanksgiving that much of the food got its start on our farms in western Ohio. Ohio is an agricultural leader in the United States... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… Being thankful for the crappy stuff, By Aprill Brandon
Every year around this time, I like to make a list of all the things I’m thankful for. One, because I think it’s an important tradition of the Thanksgiving holiday (in fact, I’d say it’s almost as important as the tradition of drinking wine all day while you cook). And two, it’s the easiest column I write all year. The list just grows and grows the older I get. Loving husband, wonderful child... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… No One Who Works Full Time Should Live in Poverty
Last week, workers in Ohio and across the country participated in a National Day of Action, demanding a living wage for the millions of Americans who are working hard but struggling to get by on the minimum wage. Forty-two percent of American workers — and 45 percent of Ohio workers — make less than $15 per hour. Among African-American workers, more than half earn less than $15 an hour... read more.

Who Would Have Imagined…? By Kate Burch
It may well happen that the demonstration of spine by French President Hollande following the terrorist murders of 132 in Paris will lose popular support shortly. Look what happened to George W. Bush, initially cheered by all Americans for his strong response to the attacks of 9/11, but eventually and predictably demonized by the Left for the... read more.

Government by Commuters, Governing by Crisis, By Susan Olling
The late David Brinkley wrote a wonderful book in the late 1980’s called Washington Goes to War. He described, in his great journalistic style, how unprepared Washington, D.C. was to assume the leadership role needed to win World War Two and how that transformation took place. Hint, it wasn’t easy. In one chapter, Mr. Brinkley described Congress in the years before the war. Legislative sessions... read more.

The White House… Serving the brave men and women who serve us, By Rob Diamond
It was just over nine years ago that I wore the uniform of a United States Naval Officer for the last time. It seems like it was just yesterday. After four years at the U.S. Naval Academy and nearly seven years of active duty service, including a wartime deployment to the Middle East in 2004, I gained what I would argue is the most important and meaningful title I have ever been afforded... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… Happy HalloChristGiving, Charlie Brown! By Aprill Brandon
Hey, you know what the world needs more of? (Warning! Warning! Sarcasm bomb about to detonate!) People complaining about how Christmas comes earlier and earlier every year. We just don’t see enough of that, you know? And I bet if we did complain more, it would totally change things. Just like how complaining about politics and cold weather and people who think Instagram... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Veterans Day
As we take time this week to pay tribute to the millions of heroes who have put their lives on the line for our country, we must remember that we owe our veterans more than our gratitude. We must work to ensure that they receive the benefits they deserve. Too many veterans face challenges related to healthcare, housing, and employment. Veterans transitioning from time in service to civilian... read more.

The White House… Let's reinvent high school
We want to talk to you about our nation’s high schools for a moment. In 2008, the Department of Education required all states, for the first time, to use the same calculation for their high school graduation rate -- a key accountability measure that this administration has embraced. In 2010, President Obama and Secretary Duncan joined the America’s Promise Alliance at the U.S. Chamber... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Protecting the Finances of Ohioans Serving in Uniform
Thousands of Ohioans are deployed overseas serving in our nation’s military, according to a recent count. Not only do these Ohioans put their lives on the line to defend our nation, but they also often face significant risks to their personal finances while they are on deployment. The challenges include difficulty managing accounts from abroad, identity theft... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Veterans Day: Legislation and Initiatives to Honor those who Served Locally -- America is the greatest country on earth and we live in the greatest state in this country. Our values and lifestyle could not be sustained without the sacrifice of the men and woman of our armed forces. The presence of the American military is felt in every community from Main Street to Wall Street. Those who serve and protect the United States should be supported and recognized for their efforts... read more.

What Lives Matter, Really? By Kate Burch
We were recently shocked and dismayed to learn that over the fifteen-year period, 1999-2014, the death rate for U.S. whites, ages 45 to 54 with no more than a high school education increased by 25 percent! During the same period, death rates for the same age range in other groups in America and other wealthy countries declined. Economists attribute... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… If Schrodinger’s cat was trying to get pregnant, By Aprill Brandon
You guys remember learning about Schrodinger’s cat? Yeah, me either. I mean, I vaguely recall something about a dead cat in a box but as for the rest…well, college is a hell of a time, kids. Luckily, college is pointless now that we have Google and as it turns out, a quick search unearthed that Schrodinger’s cat is indeed a dead cat in box that is also simultaneously alive. Due to something... read more.

The White House… Trans-Pacific Partnership, From President Barack Obama
When we have a level playing field, Americans out-compete anyone in the world. That’s a fundamental truth about our country. But right now, the rules of global trade put our workers, our businesses, and our values at a disadvantage. If you’re an autoworker in Michigan, the cars you build face taxes as high as 70 percent in Vietnam. If you’re a worker in Oregon, you’re forced to compete... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Increasing Access to Timely, Quality Prenatal Care
Each year, more than one million babies are born to mothers who did not receive adequate prenatal care. These babies are three times more likely to be low birth weight and five times more likely to die as infants. This is a particular problem in Ohio, which ranks 45th in the nation when it comes to infant mortality. And maternal mortality rates are also three-to-four times higher for women who don’t receive prenatal care... read more.

Commissioner’s Corner… Preparing for budget time
October is now in the history books, and all in all, it was a pretty good month here in Darke County. We finally got some much needed rain, the weather has been very mild with temperatures above normal, and school football games and town festivals are winding down. Let’s hope that the temperatures especially... read more.

Rep. Jim Buchy… Making Sure Charter Schools Serve the Best Interest of Our Kids
In western Ohio, we have some of the best teachers and families, who provide our students superior educational achievement. That’s why, every year, our public schools rank in the top when compared to the other schools in the state. For areas where that is not the case, it is important that families have access to other options. Over the past couple... read more.

What House Bill 116 does about bullying, Melissa Martin, Ph.D.
In 2012, Governor Kasich signed into law House Bill 116 (also known as the "Jessica Logan Act") in memory of a student who committed suicide due to bullying via texting and sexting. Jessica Logan was an 18-year-old student at Sycamore High School in Cincinnati. She sent a nude photo of herself to her boyfriend. When their relationship ended... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… Dear Mommy, life is not a series of memes, By Aprill Brandon
The one piece of advice you get the most when you’re a parent (and, not so coincidentally, the one I hate the most) is that the housework can wait, your children can’t. Leave the dishes and spend time with them! They’re only young once! They won’t want to snuggle on your lap long! A dirty house means happy kids! When they look back on their childhood, they won’t remember how clean... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Health Insurance Open Enrollment Begins Sunday
Since 2013, more than 800,000 Ohioans have obtained insurance coverage through the health law — many for the first time. And starting on Sunday, November 1st, you can enroll in a new plan or change your coverage on the health exchange. It is clear that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is working. Because of the health law: Insurance companies can no longer... read more.

A message from the Ohio Attorney General
Good Afternoon, Early voting is in full swing here in Ohio. It is critically important to get out and vote on November 3rd. In addition to 1,700 local issues and races, there are three state issues that voters are being asked to consider in this election that will have a dramatic and lasting impact on Ohio's Constitution if passed. Issue 3 would legalize... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… PARCC Testing Results
The preliminary results from last school year’s PARCC math and language arts examinations are in and things don’t look good for the common core. According to this preliminary data, only 35-40% of elementary and middle school students who took the online test passed. By PARCC standards, students must meet or exceed expectations set from the common core. In an attempt to offset these... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Ensuring Our Tax Dollars are Spent on Education
Charter schools now serve 123,000 Ohio students and cost the state approximately $1 billion a year. These schools are supposed to provide new and innovative approaches to educating our children but, because of mismanagement and a few bad apples, Ohio’s charter schools are becoming a national scandal. Since 2001, state auditors have uncovered more than $27 million in improperly spent funds... read more.

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

State Rep. Jim Buchy… Ohioans Will Answer Some Important Questions November 3rd
On November 3rd Ohioans have an important election. We will have to wait several more months to have our voices heard on the fate of Donald Trump, Ben Carson, Hillary Clinton, John Kasich, or Carly Fiorina. But as you read this the votes are being cast in Ohio for and against marijuana monopolies, a new redistricting model for state level legislative districts, and the future of constitutional monopolies... read more.

Follow-up… Buckeye Nut U, Transit & More, By Susan Olling
It’s been about six months since my contributions started appearing in County News Online. Looking back on some of these, I noticed openings for follow-up. With your indulgence, follow-up follows. The Pope’s visit came and went without incident. People heeded suggestions to stay off the roads, what a surprise in an area where most people take... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Could New Marriage Laws be a Step toward Civil Unions?
Since the Supreme Court overturned Ohio’s voter approved ban on same-sex marriage, the rights of clergy members to refuse marriage on religious grounds has been questioned. House Bill 286, known as the Pastor Protection Act, aims to protect the clergy’s right to deny marriage, but it falls short in many ways. House Bill 286 only provides protection to clergy members. While this is an important step... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… The most magical place on earth, By Aprill Brandon
There are really only two things you can count on in this world. There will always be a line at Starbucks. Everything changes (except there always being a line at Starbucks). Yes, change truly is the one constant in this world. Time marches on and on, dragging with it decay and dust and the dying careers of B-list actors. But there is one place, one magical place, where time has stood still... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Improving the Future of Ohio Agriculture
The Toledo water problems of 2014 caused growing concerns over water quality, especially in Lake Erie’s western basin. In order to fully address the issues with nutrient loading in Lake Erie we must address issues in our municipalities and in farm country. Understanding that many farmers in northwestern Ohio have taken voluntary steps to reduce their... read more.

Memorial Hall Renovation Open House Thank You
On behalf of Greenville City Schools Board of Education, administration, staff and student body we would like to thank and express our appreciation to Senator Keith Faber, Senator Bill Beagle, Representative Jim Buchy and State Board of Education Member Darryl Mehaffie for their leadership and behind the scenes work in allowing this OFCC Legislative Grant to take place at Memorial Hall... read more.

Attention Seniors…Beware of Sharks! By Donna Kemp
A feeding frenzy is about to begin. No, I am not talking about real sharks. I am referring to the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). The Annual Enrollment Period is the time of year, set aside by Medicare, during which Medicare beneficiaries can enroll in or change their Medicare Advantage or Prescription drug plans. The AEP runs... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… A mom by any other name, By Aprill Brandon
My baby just said his first sentence. But let’s completely ignore that for a minute. Yes, yes, I know. What a milestone! Ooh! Ah! What did he say!? Blah, blah, blah. We’ll get to all that sentimental crap. But first, we need to discuss what didn’t come before this milestone. Because this is important. Because I’m important. Or at least I should be. I mean, not only did I give the kid LIFE... read more.

Guilty Pleasures versus the Pleasures of Guilt, By Kate Burch
Most of us succumb, at least occasionally, to the lure of a too-big slice of flourless chocolate cake; or maybe for you it is marathon watching of a TV series; playing video games for hours; perhaps smoking an expensive cigar; or falling prey to the latest fad in shoes. The kinds of things that we know aren’t really good for us, that we don’t need, that waste time, or that others do not hold in high regard... read more.

A taste of history… 234 Years, By Susan Olling
While 1781 had not opened terribly well for the American cause, by the summer and fall there were developments in tidewater Virginia. Lieutenant General Charles, Lord Cornwallis, had moved his army from Wilmington, North Carolina to Yorktown, Virginia. A smaller garrison was posted across the river in Gloucester. General Washington and the Comte de Rochambeau received news that a French fleet... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Defund Planned Parenthood
We are all shocked by the videos of Planned Parenthood selling aborted babies. This is an unconscionable act that should not be tolerated. Governor Kasich led the legislature in opposing the work of Planned Parenthood in Ohio long before these videos surfaced. Planned Parenthood is the number one provider of abortions in America. They operate under the facade of providing women’s healthcare. Since 2011, in Ohio... read more.

Public temper tantrums, Dr. Melissa Martin, Ph.D., LPCC-S
You have to stop at the store with your 3 year-old. He refuses to set in the cart or hold your hand. You notice his changing expression and red face. A temper tantrum is in the making! Two important words for parents and caretakers – STAY CALM. Abstain from having a parent temper tantrum! Do not mirror your child’s emotion because he will match your emotion and the conflict is on. The louder... read more.

Darke County Commissioner… A Look at Issue 3, By Mike Stegall
This November Ohioans will go to the polls to vote on issue 3, the legalization of marijuana statewide. This is not the only issue to be voted on, but by far is the most contentious. The County Commissioners Association of Ohio (C.C.A.O.) has come out against it, Most county Commissioners are against it, The National Federation of Independent Business is against it, a lot of people I talk... read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Air Force to move National Security Education Programs to Wright Patt -- WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) today applauded news that the U.S. Air Force’s Air University (AU) will move two professional continuing education programs to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Wright-Patterson’s Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) will now serve as the home to the National Security Space Institute (NSSI) and the Nuclear College segment of AU’s Center... read more.

Commissioner's Corner… Employment rate now below 4 percent
September is the time for falling leaves, bonfires, harvesting of crops, cooler temperatures, and football games from Thursday until Monday. Smaller Counties like Darke County also include a lot of local festivals celebrating the harvest. Fall in our County is the prettiest time of year with all the changing colors in the leaves. September... read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Drug Testing for Certain Welfare Recipients in Ohio
Ohio, like many other states, has seen an increase in drug abuse and dependency. With this, we also see a correlation between drug abusers and poverty. The Cincinnati Enquirer recently did a story on an 18 month investigation into a drug ring that benefited from tax payers’ hard earned money. The investigation uncovered 2 million dollars worth of food stamps that were being exchanged for cash and drugs... read more.

Special from BEAR’S MILL… Matt the Miller visits Bear’s Mill
Greenville, Ohio August 2015. On a hot and sunny Saturday morning, I set out from Loveland, heading north towards Greenville Ohio and Bear’s Mill. This mill was chosen for two reasons: 1. It was the closest working mill. 2. My favourite animal is the bear. It took just under an hour and a half to drive the 80 miles, which obviously in country... read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… My husband is my wingman, By Aprill Brandon
Of all the changes that happen when you have a baby (and there are A LOT, like the never-ending stream of mysterious wet spots that regularly appear on you, your baby and your home that you quickly learn to stop questioning in order to preserve your sanity), perhaps one of the biggest is the way it changes your relationship to your partner. Some of these are good changes… read more.

Obamacare and the Culture of Death, By Kate Burch
A recently-developed, highly accurate, blood test that screens for the presence of Down syndrome in the fetus is becoming more widely used. It has great potential for good, in that it can help women avoid more invasive and dangerous procedures such as amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling when there are risk factors for Down syndrome present. It is also a good thing for… read more.

Representative Buchy… The State Budget Accomplishes Major Goals in Education
As school begins again across the state, I can say with confidence that the state legislature has taken a positive step with House Bill 64. With its passage in June, the state operating budget in Ohio achieved some major goals in Ohio’s pathway to eliminating the Common Core standards and improving education for Ohio’s students. The state budget included a… read more.

When bullying is based on race, Dr. Melissa Martin, Ph.D., LPCC-S
Bullying is a form of aggression used to gain power and targeting peers based on racial differences is another misuse of power. Biracial and multiracial youth are more likely to be bullied than youth who identify with a single race, according to the National Voices for Equality Education and Enlightenment. Twice as many ethnic minority youth in… read more.

Tri-County Board Adopts Position Opposing Marijuana Legalization in Ohio
At its September 16 meeting, the Tri-County Board formally adopted a position statement opposing efforts to legalize marijuana in Ohio. In doing so, the Board joins an expanding list of public and private organizations, including business owners, healthcare and behavioral health professionals and law enforcement groups to oppose efforts to legalize marijuana in Ohio. The full text of the position statement is… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… When stuff turns into a whole, like, thing, By Aprill Brandon
I should have known better. As soon as I walked in, I had a bad feeling. This was going to turn into a THING. It always does. “Hi. I just need to get new eyeglasses. I have my old prescription right here.” “OK, when was your last eye exam?” “Honestly, I just need new glasses. No need for an exam.” “Ma’am, I need to know the date of your last eye exam.” “Um…sigh…five years ago, I think.”… read more.

What Week Coming Up, Potentially, By Susan Olling
Those of us in the greater D.C. environs have been hearing that there will be traffic chaos with what appears to be a perfect storm of activity occurring in a week or so. First, the Pope’s visiting. Then, there’s a concert. Finally (yawn) the local MLB franchise is playing what’s being called the Beltway Series against the Baltimore Orioles. At National’s Park. Please note, the locals are already looking… read more.

The White House… Ahmed: We Stand with You
Yesterday, a 14-year-old student named Ahmed Mohamed was arrested for bringing his engineering project (an electronic clock) to his high school. Officials mistook it for a bomb. When I was growing up, my friends and I were fortunate to know how to use soldiering irons, circuit boards, and even a bit of duct tape when nothing else worked… read more.

The White House… I went to community college (now I work at the White House)
I spent more than half of 2005 in Iraq. I was four years into my service in the Marine Corps, and as is the case with most of our young enlisted military members, I had enormous responsibilities for a twenty-two year-old. Grateful for the opportunity to serve, and thankful for the experiences the Marine Corps gave to me, I left active duty in 2006, excited at the prospect of new cities… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Legislation increases opportunities for people with felonies - WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced the Fair Chance Act – bipartisan legislation to expand job opportunities and reduce recidivism by requiring federal contractors and federal agencies to “ban the box” on job applications. Reforming hiring practices has widespread support from both public and private institutions. Eighteen… read more.

And the stories keep coming, By Susan Olling
Some of my contributions have been a bit, well, tongue-in-cheek about tourists. I’m stepping back from that to share some of my early volunteer experiences where I learned how much fun tourists can provide. My first volunteer experience started almost thirty years ago. The Washington National Cathedral (AKA the Big Church), the seat of… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… This is why we don’t stick our hand in the toaster, By Aprill Brandon
The pitter-patter of little feet. This is what is promised to you when you become a parent. The sound that will fill your house, night and day. And it truly is one of the greatest sounds in the world. Unfortunately, this sound is accompanied by a whole orchestra of other sounds that are much less talked about, let alone celebrated. And in our house right now, that pitter-patter is followed by much… read more.

The Dark Night of the Animas, By Kate Burch
Around 1988, my husband and I took a road trip to the West. In Colorado, we had the delightful experience of riding on the narrow-gauge railway from Durango to Silverton, an old mining town. The train tracks for quite a while hugged a vertiginous cliff overlooking the Animas River, and we could, scarily, look down and watch kayakers on the rapidly moving waters. It struck me at the time… read more.

State Representative Buchy… Raising Awareness of Krabbe Disease
Krabbe disease is an often fatal degenerative disease that destroys the protective coating on nerve cells in the brain and the nervous system. This rare disease has effected several families locally including that of Madison Layton who passed away after battling the disease from birth to her second birthday. It is in Madison’s memory that the second week in… read more.

The White House… Lessons to learn from Iraq War
This week, critics of the Iran deal -- including Former Vice President Dick Cheney -- are gathering in Washington. It's a safe bet that they will call for abandoning our diplomatic deal with Iran and the world, and call for a dangerously simplistic vision of American "leadership" based on unilateral action that would ultimately leave us… read more.

Help kids manage emotions, By Dr. Melissa Martin
Television commercials shown during annual sports events are meant to evoke emotions. Feelings help fuel our decisions to buy. Babies and puppies promote warm and fuzzy feelings. Humorous commercials stir up laughter. Brave soldier commercials move us to tears. Emotions are powerful motivators for children, adolescents, and adults. An essential life lesson is learning to manage… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… On Labor Day, Renewing our Commitment to Ohio Workers
Labor Day is more than just a last hurrah of summer, a day for picnics and barbeques for many families. It’s also an important time for us to reflect on the labor movement’s proud history in Ohio, and to honor the workers who paved the way for the worker protections we too often take for granted. These workers built our strong middle class, and built our country. They laid down the railroad tracks… read more.

U.S. Senator Brown… Ensuring Taxpayer Dollars are Spent on Education, Not Corporate PR
As the summer comes to a close, students across Ohio are crisscrossing the state, heading back to campuses and settling into dorms. Set foot on any college quad, and the excitement is palpable — young people excited for their futures, which they hope will be even brighter thanks to higher education. We know that education is one of the surest paths to economic success. It’s one… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… My dad is in the cheese business, By Aprill Brandon
There I was. Just minding my own business. Looking like a hungover Cruella de Ville with my gallon-sized black coffee and my big dark sunglasses and my resting bitch face. Sitting at an outdoor table quietly attempting to write a beautiful and heartfelt rant on why I thought Blake Lively was the devil. When suddenly, the three of them plopped down at the next table. A blur of bobbing… read more.

Attorney General Mike DeWine… DeWine Announces Support for Child Credit Freeze Bill
HB 317 Would Help Parents Protect Children from Identity Theft (COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine today announced support for Ohio House Bill 317, which would allow parents or guardians to “freeze” a child’s credit record to help stop identity thieves from opening accounts in the child’s name. The bill was introduced today by Representative Ron Maag (R-Lebanon)… read more.

More DC fodder… including an elevator exorcism, By Susan Olling
While tourists unwittingly provide lots of stories, they didn’t provide the only fodder for this installment. Metro, our little subway system, has had something newsworthy on a number of occasions this year. The most recent something newsworthy occurred in early August. A train derailed in a tunnel between two stations in the middle of downtown D.C. Fortunately, the train was empty. Unfortunately… read more.

The White House… One veteran's perspective on the Iran deal
I was in the first company of Marines to enter Baghdad in 2003. As a combat veteran, I know the cost of war. It is something I still carry with me today in the U.S. House of Representatives, where I have the privilege of representing the people of northeast Massachusetts. And I am reminded of it every time the questions of war… read more.

Commissioner’s Corner… Construction has begun at South Industrial Park Drive
August has certainly been friendly to Darke County. It seems we have had perfect weather most of the time, only a couple of really warm days, and rain when needed. The Great Darke County Fair could not have had any better weather! The Days were cool and mild, and the nights were perfect. With High School football starting… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Birth/Death Certificates-Removing Red tape
A constituent brought to my attention the need to make access to Ohio’s birth and death certificates easier and more affordable. In the past the local County Boards of Health and the State Health Department have had different policies on how to access these documents. Although allowing local Boards to operate as they see fit is an optimal way to govern, this… read more.

Revolt or revert? By Jim Surber
Six months ago, if someone had offered a wager that in late August the two leading presidential candidates would be Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders; I would have probably borrowed heavily to bet against it. Yes, the breakout stars of 2015 are two old white guys from the outer boroughs of New York. In the summer of America’s discontent, Sanders… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… What I Did On My Summer Vacation, By Aprill Brandon
We didn’t really have the money. Or it might be more accurate to say we had the money but we knew we should probably save it like real grown-ups do to put toward buying a house, or purchasing bookshelves that aren’t held together with duct tape or funneling it into an account to pay for our toddler son’s future therapy bills. But instead, we said screw it and blew it all on a spur-of-the-moment… read more.

Tourists, tourists, By Susan Olling
The National Mall and Memorial Parks provide excellent examples of tourists behaving, well, like tourists. Give them lots of room if you can. I won’t even go into the indescribably bad fashion statements that are seen down there. Some of the events below may have involved locals, but it doesn’t matter. Comments from “regular” visitors about the disrespectful behavior of school groups were… read more.

New Newspeak, By Kate Burch
“1984,” George Orwell’s dystopian novel about a totalitarian state, Oceania, described the language of this country, “Newspeak,” which was devised as a means of limiting freedom of thought, and squelching ideas that posed a threat to the regime, such as freedom, self-expression, and individuality. This new language served to shape the thinking of the populace and create a political orthodoxy… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Ohioans Shouldn’t be Left in the Dark on Trade
Ohioans have seen first-hand what so-called free trade agreements have done to our state and our economy. Bad deals have closed factories, torn apart families, and devastated communities. Americans have every right to be skeptical of new trade deals, particularly the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) — the largest trade deal ever negotiated. We have heard “just trust me” from politicians too many… read more.

State Senator Bill Beagle… Fire Safety for Off-Campus Housing
This week I joined State Senator Peggy Lehner (R-Kettering) and State Representative Rick Perales (R-Beavercreek) to reintroduce legislation aimed at protecting renters in the event of a fire. The bill requires a separate means of egress for all dwelling areas above the second story of a residential rental property. When a fire breaks out, you have only moments to make a decision on how you will escape… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Mitochondrial Disease Awareness
September is Mitochondrial disease awareness month in memory of western Ohio’s own Corynna Strawser. Corynna dedicated her life to raising awareness for this rare and devastating disease and in her honor Senate Bill 300 was passed to allow us to carry on her fight. Mitochondrial disease, Mito for short, is an inherited chronic illness in which… read more.

Bullying in Ohio, By Melissa Martin, Child Therapist
How do agencies and organizations in Ohio prevent and intervene with bullying? Do they help or hinder? What is the bullying policy at your child’s school? What is a definition of bullying? “Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time,” according… read more.

Broke Wife, Big City… “Slummering” in Maine, By Aprill Brandon
Guys, I don’t want to alienate any of my readers, but I can officially say that I now “summer in Maine” like the rich people do. So please no longer make direct eye contact when addressing me, peasants. Ok, ok, busted. We’ll actually be slumming it in a small motel by the beach for barely three days, so technically I guess you could say we’ll be “slummering in Maine.” But you… read more.

State Representative Jim Buchy… Agritourism is a Growing Trend in Ohio
When the Ohio winter ends and the warmer months come, you see many people moving outdoors for entertainment. A growing trend in Ohio is for Ohioans to take part in agritourism. Over the last 15 or so years, this industry has really taken off and we in the state legislature are doing our part to help it continue to be successful. Agritourism can be defined as the crossroads between agriculture and tourism.… read more.

Mr. History Wants… By Susan Olling
Some years ago, we went on a factory tour at the Harley-Davidson assembly plant in York, PA. I thought that Mr. History’s interest in this type of hog would go no further. However, one of the toys on Mr. History’s wish list is a top-of-line Harley. This list also includes a 1930s fire truck, among other internal-combustion contraptions. I always ask him where he plans to put all of these things… read more.

Greenville City Schools… Welcome to the 2015-2016 School Year, GCSD Superintendent Douglas Fries
Welcome to the 2015-2016 school year. Our administration and staff are eager to begin another year with the students, parents, grandparents, and community members throughout our district. We hope to have everyone work together to make this another successful instructional and enjoyable year for all. I trust each of you have had a relaxing and enjoyable summer with your family… read more.

Ohio Republican Party… ORP Update
Focusing on jobs and the taxpayers. That's a major difference between Ohio Republicans and Ohio Democrats. A little over 4 years ago, under Democrat Ted Strickland, our state faced massive job lost, tax hikes, and an $8 billion budget hole. Now our Republican team has delivered $5 billion in tax cuts, a $2 billion surplus and economic growth. This week Ohio Republicans continued… read more.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown… Protecting Ohio’s Drinking Water
Around this time last year, 500,000 Ohioans in the Toledo area were forced to go without safe drinking water. They were warned they couldn’t drink the tap water in their own homes. This is something no family should have to go through, and that should not be happening in our state. Cities and towns across Ohio need to have the best, most up-to-date information on how to keep their drinking… read more.

All Is Not Lost, By Kate Burch
At our house, we joke about morning prayers consisting, at least in part, of sitting with our coffee and the daily newspapers, saying repeatedly, “Oh, God!” Yesterday, especial fervency was provoked by some disheartening news about Voice of America. Started in 1942 as a means of countering Nazi propaganda, VOA is a taxpayer-funded… read more.

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