Join us on Jan. 29 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Snyder Building, UC Clermont, located at 4200 Clermont College Dr, Batavia. Whether you’re a sports planner, community leader, or simply interested in the future of our local facilities, this presentation will offer a comprehensive overview and an opportunity to engage with experts in the field.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be a part of shaping the future of sports in our region. We look forward to seeing you there!

The City of Loveland, in partnership with the Ohio Department of Transportation, is proposing a roadway improvement project on Loveland Madeira Road, from West Loveland Avenue to just past Valley View Lane. Proposed improvements are being funded by a $4.6-million grant through the OKI Regional Council of Governments, and include the following:

• Pedestrian enhancements, including sidewalk installation on the east side of the roadway and a multi-use path on the west side of the roadway.
• Construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Valley View Lane and Loveland Madeira Road to add a fourth leg of the intersection to accommodate future property development.
• Streetscape enhancements, including street trees, lighting, green stormwater infrastructure, benches, high visibility crosswalks, bike racks, and burying all overhead utilities underground.
• Grass-center median installation at various locations to manage traffic movement.

Permanent and temporary right-of-way will be required in order to complete the proposed work. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027 and be completed in 2028.

The City of Loveland is hosting a public meeting to ensure the proposed project is viable and successful. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the project and proposed improvements with the community, answer questions, and gather community input before making final decisions. We are asking all those interested to attend and participate in this public meeting, which is being conducted in-person.

In-Person Public Meeting

When: February 12, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM

This will be an open house event with no formal presentation.

Where: City Hall, City of Loveland

120 W Loveland Avenue

Loveland, Ohio 45140

Project Website: https://www.lovelandoh.gov

Additional materials will be made available at the public meeting and on the project website. We invite you to review the materials once they are available and submit your questions using the comment form on the website, or by one of the contact methods listed below. Your feedback is welcome at any time but must be received by March 12, 2025, to be formally documented and considered during the preliminary project development phase.

Individuals who require reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting should contact Chris Wojnicz by February 1, 2025. Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, sex, age, national origin, or disability. A printout of the exhibits will be provided to any individual having issues accessing the project website or attending the meeting. Please send a request using one of the contact methods listed below.

On Jan. 8, Governor DeWine signed House Bill 497 (Representatives Brian Stewart and Roy Klopfenstein). The language in HB 497 will become effective 90 days after the Governor’s signature, which places the bill’s effective date on April 8, 2025.

As a reminder, the following provisions were included in the final version of HB 497:

Approval of plans for courthouse or jail projects

The bill adds a $75,000 threshold for boards of commissioners to approve courthouse or jail renovation/repair projects without the approval of the clerk of the court of common pleas, the sheriff, the probate judge, and the appointee of the judge of the court of common pleas. The board of commissioners may seek the advice of these elected officials. If the project exceeds the $75,000 threshold, the current approval process in R.C. 153.36 remains in effect.

Contracts submitted to the prosecuting attorney

The bill increases the dollar threshold for contracts the board of commissioners must submit to the county prosecutor for approval to $20,000. This statute was last updated in 1953.

County contract terms and conditions

The bill makes certain terms and conditions unenforceable if they are included in county contracts, including an indemnity clause, a requirement for binding arbitration, and the naming of a court or venue for legal action outside of the county. The language is based on an existing law that applies to state contracts.

Resolutions for disposing of unneeded personal property

The bill raises the dollar threshold for a board of county commissioners’ requirement to pass a resolution to sell or donate unnecessary or obsolete personal property to $5,000.

Design services for county improvements

The bill exempts “minor repairs” from needing professional design or engineering services and defines them. The definition of “minor repairs” was copied from the Ohio Administrative Code.

Electronic notice requirements

The bill modifies notice requirements for county competitive bidding to allow publication in a newspaper, a newspaper’s website, the state public notice website, or the county’s website and social media account.

Locations of construction plans

The bill changes the location for holding construction plans, drawings, representations, bills of material, specifications of work, and estimates for public improvements, the building of a county home, the building of a children’s home, and courthouse or jail renovation/repair projects under $25,000 to the board of commissioners. Current law requires the county auditor to keep these items.

Transportation Improvement District legal services

The bill allows Transportation Improvement Districts (TIDs) to contract with the county prosecuting attorney for legal services.

Public records commission

The language allows the county public records commission to meet upon the chairperson’s call rather than at least every six months.

Designating county depositories

The bill allows commissioners to add additional public depositories one additional time during the four-year designation period in current law.

Competitive bidding notification requirements

The bill updates competitive bidding notification requirements to align with changes made in the state operating budget last year. Current law requires counties to provide notice of competitive bidding opportunities for any project estimated to cost more than $50,000 instead of the updated competitive bidding threshold enacted by the operating budget.

Coroners

The final bill now includes provisions related to county coroners contained in SB 255, including language defining private practice of medicine to include the performance of an autopsy at the request of another person, including another coroner, a hospital, a business entity, an institution of higher education, or any other person. The bill also aligns the fees at $350 per hour that a coroner or deputy coroner can charge for providing expert testimony at a trial, hearing, or deposition in a civil action.

Children services caseworker educational requirements

The bill provides more flexible educational requirements upon hiring a children services caseworker and gives a PCSA director the permissive authority to waive the requirement that an employee in good standing obtain a job-related bachelor’s degree within five years of employment.

Juvenile court transfer

The bill specifies that any court cost, fine, restitution, or other monetary penalty imposed at the time of a transfer to the juvenile court of the child’s residence is not a final, appealable order.

Erie County Municipal Courts

The language adds municipal courts in Erie County to the list of courts with territorial jurisdiction of the international boundary on Lake Erie in R.C. 1901.023.

Land Conveyances

The bill includes two land conveyance measures in Montgomery and Knox Counties.

CCAO will release a County Advisory Bulletin (CAB) on this bill prior to its effective date. Additionally, the policy team will release CABs on other bills passed and enacted during the 135th General Assembly Lame Duck Session.

If you have questions about HB 497, please contact the Policy Team at policy@ccao.org.

Getting healthier, specifically regarding weight loss and dieting, tends to top the list of New Year resolutions each year. As a result, detox diets became especially popular in January, but there is a lot of misinformation surrounding the practice. As tempting as it may be to quickly “reset” after the holiday season, it’s essential to understand the truth about detox diets and make informed decisions for long-term health and wellness.

“Detox diets, like juice cleanses or extreme fasting, are often marketed to eliminate toxins from the body. However, the truth is the body already has its natural detoxification systems, including the liver and kidneys, which work continuously to cleanse and filter toxins,” explained Heeran Abawi, MD. “While detox diets might offer short-term results like weight loss, they don’t necessarily improve long-term health and can sometimes cause nutrient imbalances or dehydration.”

Instead of extreme detox regimens, providers at Mercy Health—Cincinnati’s Weight Management program encourage individuals to focus on healthy, sustainable lifestyle changes that support overall well-being and aid in natural detoxification processes.

Here are a few healthy alternatives to reset your system this new year:

• Hydrate Naturally: Drinking water is one of the best ways to support your body’s natural detoxification process. Staying hydrated helps promote healthy digestion and supports kidney function, essential for removing waste from the body.
• Focus on Whole, Nutrient-Dense Foods: A balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains will provide essential nutrients and fiber that help support digestion and overall health. Avoid fad diets or restrictive eating habits that deprive the body of vital nutrients.
• Regular Physical Activity: Exercise helps to boost circulation, which encourages the elimination of toxins through sweat. A consistent fitness routine with aerobic and strength training exercises can help improve your metabolism and overall energy levels.
• Mindful Eating: Enjoy your meals and pay attention to portion sizes. Mindful eating can help regulate hunger cues, reduce stress around food, and prevent overeating.

Mercy Health- Cincinnati’s Weight Management Program provides personalized support through medically supervised plans for individuals looking to take a more structured approach to health, weight loss, or wellness this new year. The program emphasizes sustainable lifestyle changes, offering expert nutrition, physical activity, and behavioral health guidance.

“We believe in supporting our patients with practical tools and resources that lead to lasting results,” says Dr. Abawi. “Rather than focusing on quick fixes like detox diets, our Weight Management Program helps individuals create a personalized plan that aligns with their goals for long-term health.”

“I am committed to ensuring the safety and development of infrastructure in rural Ohio and look forward to moving Ohio’s Second District forward through my role on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,” said Congressman Taylor. “And with agriculture being a backbone of Southern Ohio, I’m excited to work with my colleagues on the House Agriculture Committee to bolster Ohio’s agriculture industry, expand broadband access to our rural communities, and support our farmers, ranchers, and producers. It’s time to roll up our sleeves and get to work for the American people.”

Congressman Taylor was sworn in to the 119th Congress on January 3, 2025.

Congressman David Taylor represents Ohio’s Second Congressional District which includes Clermont, Clinton, Pike, Adams, Brown, Highland, Ross, Scioto, Pickaway, Hocking, Vinton, Jackson, Lawrence, Gallia, and Meigs counties, as well as part of Fayette County. Taylor will serve on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the House Agriculture Committee. Prior to serving in Congress, Taylor worked as an assistant prosecutor for Clermont County before joining his family’s concrete business, where he ultimately served as President. Please visit https://taylor.house.gov/ for more information.

“It is a tremendous honor to be elected as the 2025 president of CCAO,” said Commissioner Painter. “I am excited to lead our association as we work collaboratively to strengthen Ohio’s counties. The state-county partnership is more critical than ever in delivering essential services such as justice and public safety, childcare, and infrastructure improvements. Together, we can achieve lasting progress for the residents of Ohio.”

Commissioner Painter has been an active member of the CCAO Board of Directors since 2021, serving on the General Government and Operations Committee and the Taxation and Finance Committee. His election as president took place on December 5 during the CCAO Annual Business Meeting, where his colleagues recognized his dedication to public service.

“Commissioner Painter has demonstrated exceptional commitment throughout his tenure on the CCAO board,” said Cheryl Subler, CCAO Executive Director. “I look forward to working with him to address our shared priorities and strengthen the vital partnership between the state and Ohio’s counties. His experience and vision will be an asset as we continue to build a brighter future for our counties.”

CCAO represents Ohio’s 88 counties’ commissioners, executives and county council members, advocating for policies and resources that empower counties to provide critical services and improve residents’ quality of life. For more information about CCAO and its initiatives, visit www.ccao.org.

The Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Regional Council of Governments (OKI) Board of Directors approved the appointment of the board and officers to lead the organization in 2025, with Josh Gerth, Anderson Township Trustee, leading the board as president.

They were appointed at OKI’s first Board of Directors meeting of the new year, which was held this morning, Thursday, Jan. 9.

“Since joining the OKI Board a decade ago, I have been in awe of the collaborative approach of the over 100 OKI board members to improve the quality of life and economic vitality of the region we call home,” said Gerth, who is starting his first term as president of the agency.

“It’s a rare sight to see a diverse group of people with different political backgrounds and viewpoints come together so effectively and make decisions. I’m looking forward to working with my fellow board members in my new role,” Gerth said.

“OKI is a national model for how a metropolitan planning organization can transform a region,” the new president added. “CEO Mark Policinski and his talented staff are the reason for this reputation. I’m both privileged and honored to be a part of this innovative organization.”

OKI officers will serve a one-year term starting today.

President: Josh Gerth, Anderson Township Trustee

First Vice President: Bonnie Batchler, Clermont County Commissioner

Second Vice President: Mark Jeffreys, Cincinnati Councilmember

Treasurer: Kenneth F. Reed, Resident At-Large Member

Past President: Gary W. Moore, Boone County Judge/Executive

Secretary: Mark R. Policinski, OKI CEO

OKI’s Board of Directors has 118 members, including many elected officials. OKI is federally mandated and provides $40 million to $80 million in transportation funds annually to construction and planning projects across its eight-county, three-state region. The counties are Butler, Clermont, Hamilton and Warren in Ohio; Boone, Campbell and Kenton in Kentucky; and Dearborn in Indiana.

OKI is a council of local governments, business organizations and community groups committed to developing collaborative strategies, plans and programs to improve the quality of life and economic development throughout the tri-state.

We are absolutely thrilled to share the exciting news with you. Our team is overjoyed to announce our brand-new location, a “Forever Home” in the Village of New Richmond.

It’s time to celebrate the rich traditions and stories of the Appalachian region in a vibrant and engaging way for the 54th Annual Appalachian Festival. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with Appalachian traditions to create lasting memories. Get ready for a fantastic experience as we count down to the big day. Picture yourself enjoying the vibrant atmosphere alongside the beautiful Ohio River in the charming business district of the Village of New Richmond.

For the love of the mountains, the Appalachian Festival is where your spirits soar, and your bonds deepen. Get ready to be immersed in a world of art, music, and culture that will ignite your senses and awaken your spirit.

For Mother’s Day weekend, we will transform the Village of New Richmond into a mountain village, where you can experience what life was like in the Appalachian Mountains. The streets will be lined with artisan shops, mouthwatering food, and Pickin’ Porches along with their own restaurants and shops. Share in the powerful rhythm and deep resonance of the drum as our Native American dancers share their culture and music with us.

Bring your family and friends to the Village of New Richmond for a knee-slapping great Mother’s Day weekend outing. Fun for the whole family.

All proceeds go to grants that give back to Appalachian communities.

Times are Saturday, May 10: 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.; Sunday, May 11: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

City Council remains committed to keeping rates low for residents and businesses. Even with these adjustments, Milford’s water and wastewater rates continue to rank among the most affordable in the region, based on a comparison of rates from over 60 local governments. Wastewater and stormwater rates have not increased in almost 20 years, and water rates have increased only five times.

To prevent large future increases and to manage ongoing costs, the city will conduct a comprehensive review of the utility system to plan for the next five to ten years. This review will assess costs for system maintenance, meter reading, account servicing, and infrastructure improvements to ensure reliable service.

Thank you for understanding and support as we take the necessary steps to secure the future of Milford’s utility services. We are happy to assist with your questions. Please contact us at (513) 248-5080.

“To the people of Ohio, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for the privilege of representing you in the United States Senate. When I was elected to this office, I promised to never forget where I came from, and I’ve made sure to live by that promise every single day,” said Vice President-elect Vance. “The American people have granted President Trump an undeniable mandate to put America first, both at home and abroad. Over the next four years, I will do all that I can to help President Trump enact his agenda. Together, we will make America stronger, safer, and more prosperous than ever before.”

Senator Vance’s resignation became effective at midnight on Jan. 10.

Despite the intensity of contemporary debate about media bias, newspapers have always been intertwined with politics. Sometimes the issues were personal, sometimes they were partisan, and sometimes both. Take the example of Thomas Jefferson, our third president.

James Callender, a former friend and political ally of the president, took a job as editor of a Richmond, Virginia newspaper. Feeling slighted because Jefferson failed to give him a government job, Callender launched a series of highly embarrassing articles in the newspaper about Jefferson’s alleged involvement with one of his female slaves.

Jefferson responded by purchasing the National Intelligencer and from that platform fired off a blistering counterattack. Both men were damaged in the exchange. (Most contemporary historians agree that Callender’s accusations were largely accurate.)

Thomas Jefferson wasn’t the only president to get entangled in newspaper politics. Abraham Lincoln bought a Springfield, Illinois-based, German language paper before the 1860 presidential election. He used the paper as a conduit into the German community which proved to be his strongest supporters.

This wasn’t Lincoln’s only foray into newspaper politics. Nearly twenty years before the presidential election, Lincoln wrote a series of articles under the pen name Cato, a Roman general. The articles criticized Illinois state auditor James Shields. Shields found out that Lincoln was the author of the articles and challenged him to a duel.

Dueling was a common practice of the day. It had strict protocols. It gave the challenged the right to choose the weapon, usually pistols. Lincoln was no marksman. Knowing that his long and very strong arms would shift the advantage to him, Lincoln chose broad swords as his weapons of choice. To demonstrate his prowess, Lincoln easily sliced through a thick tree branch. Shields got the message and quietly withdrew his challenge. Shields would later serve under Commander-in-Chief Abraham Lincoln as a Union general during the Civil War.

Nineteenth and early 20th-century newspapers made no pretenses about fairness or objectivity. They clearly and proudly stated their party affiliations. Locally, Clermonters knew exactly what to expect when they picked up a paper. The Clermont Sun supported the Democratic party and The Clermont Courier championed the Whigs and later the Republicans.

The Clermont Sun was first published in Bethel in 1828. (The paper’s name changed to the Ohio Sun and Advertiser, then to the Ohio Sun and eventually back to The Clermont Sun.) The paper’s subscription was $2.00 per year if paid early. It accepted local produce such as wheat, pork, and whiskey, traded at market rates, in lieu of cash. Prominent businessmen from around the county, including Samuel Perin of Perin’s Mills, Matias Kugler of Milford, and Jesse Grant, U.S. Grant’s father, of Georgetown, were chosen as sales agents. The Sun proclaimed its Jacksonian sentiments when it adopted this motto: “Unawed by the influence of the rich, the great or noble, the people must be heard, and their rights protected.”

The Clermont Courier opened its doors in Batavia on March 19, 1836, as the voice of the new Whig Party. The Whigs rose in opposition to Andrew Jackson whom they denounced as a despot. The Courier faithfully supported the Whig ticket until 1854 when the party dissolved into the Republican Party. The paper transferred its allegiance to the newcomers.

The 1860 presidential election was the most consequential election in American history. The very life of The Republic was in question. With the stakes so high, political niceties were quickly abandoned. The “newspaper wars” broke down into a bare-knuckled brawl.

The Sun sent over a salvo of charges accusing Lincoln and the Republicans of being “Negro lovers” “Negro equalitists” and “miscregenationists,” or supporters of racial intermixing. The Courier immediately responded by pointing out that Richmond M. Johnson, a Democrat who served as vice-president under Martin Van Buren, fathered two racially mixed daughters.

Stephen A. Douglas was the Democrats’ candidate. He was known to have a fondness for whiskey. When he left the campaign for a couple of days, the rumors flew. Democrats tried to explain away the scandal by saying that Douglas was sick. The Courier cleverly “agreed”: “Who then is the Little Giant (Douglas) Inn-Disposed” when he has been ALEing for a few days.”

The papers battled on, slamming the candidates and each other with gusto. Clermonters went to the polls on November 6, 1860, and, true to form, chose Democrat Stephen Douglas as their president, defeating Republican Abraham Lincoln by 241 votes.

The Sun and The Courier continued their rivalry until 1989 when the The Courier shut its doors.

The G.I. Bill has provided financial assistance to veterans for education and training, stemming from the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, which helped World War II veterans with tuition, mortgages and unemployment benefits.

The Montgomery G.I. Bill, introduced in 1984, expanded these benefits to cover various forms of education for active duty and reserve members.

In 2008, the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill further extended benefits, offering full tuition coverage, housing allowances, and book stipends for veterans who served after September 11, 2001. The Post-9/11 G.I. Bill has paid over $143 billion to over 2.7 million beneficiaries, according to the VA.

In April of 2024, the Supreme Court issued a decision in the Rudisill v. McDonough case, siding with former Army Captain James Rudisill, in a 7-2 ruling.

The former Captain Rudisill believed he had 10 months of educational benefits under a previous plan, but he was denied by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The Supreme Court ruled that Rudisill could maintain some of his educational benefits under two (2) different G.I. Bills.

Under the previous policy, eligible veterans who served at least two periods of service were limited to a maximum total of thirty-six (36) of GI Bill benefits, between the Montgomery G.I. Bill and the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill. Under the updated policy, that limitation is removed.

The VA’s change in awarding benefits will allow veterans who have served multiple periods of military service, such as those who reenlisted, to be eligible for up to an additional twelve (12) months of education benefits.

The updated VA policy removes this limitation, allowing eligible veterans to qualify for up to forty-eight (48) months of total G.I. Bill benefits. This could impact as many as 1.04 million veterans and beneficiaries.

The VA is launching a targeted outreach campaign to encourage them to file a claim and to make sure that every veteran gets the additional educational benefits that they deserve.

Of the projected 1.04 million veterans who may potentially be eligible for an additional twelve (12) months of benefits, the VA will be able to automatically adjudicate the claims for approximately 660,000 without any further action required on their part.

According to the VA, “supporting veterans and their families is a key pillar of President Biden’s Unity Agenda for the nation.” In 2024 alone, VA helped more than 900,000 veterans or their families pay for school and cover expenses while training for a job.

“This policy will not only help veterans who apply for G.I. Bill benefits in the future — it will also allow VA to provide additional benefits to many Veterans who used G.I. Bill benefits in the past,” said VA Under Secretary for Benefits Joshua Jacobs.

“Every veteran,” concluded the VA Under Secretary Jacobs, “has earned the right to get a good, affordable education — and under this new policy, many veterans will get additional twelve (12) months of G.I. Bill benefits.”

The VA is also extending the expiration dates for using G.I. Bill benefits for eligible Veterans. For each veteran with multiple periods of service who chose the Post-9/11 GI Bill over the Montgomery G.I. Bill, the VA will reinstate the time they had remaining at the time of their election plus 90 days.

For example, if a veteran chose to use the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill at a time when they had five (5) years left to use the Montgomery G.I. Bill, they would be given five (5) years plus ninety (90) days to use any additional Montgomery G.I. Bill benefits. To receive an expiration date extension, all applications must be submitted by October 1, 2030.

My Opinion: It is great that the VA is implementing this change in awarding G.I. Bill benefits to veterans. The G.I. Bill has long been used as a recruiting and retention tool for the military.

The G.I. Bill has enabled countless veterans and service members — as well as their eligible dependents, through the Department of Defense (DoD) Transfer of Education Benefits Program, to train and attend school while greatly reducing their out-of-pocket costs.

The change in the awarding of these educational benefits was caused by a Supreme Court decision, not by legislative action by our elected officials. As stated earlier, it was a 7-2 vote in the in the Rudisill v. McDonough case.

The Supreme Court opinion stated that Rudisill began his time in the U.S. Army in 2000 and went on to serve eight (8) years, on three (3) separate periods of military service.

During his first period of service, Rudisill enlisted in educational benefits under the Montgomery Bill but the Supreme Court opinion stated that “through his subsequent periods of service, Rudisill also became entitled to more generous educational benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Rudisill sought to use his Post-9/11 benefits to finance a graduate degree.”

Supreme Court Justices Ketanji Brown Jackson; John Roberts, Sonia Sotomayor; Amy Coney Barrett; Elena Kagan; Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh supported Captain Rudisill in his case against the VA.

Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito decided not to support Captain Rudisill against the VA, who had previously denied his request for G.I. Bill benefits that he had earned.

BioSketch: John Plahovinsak is a retired 32-year Army veteran, who served from 1967 to 1999. He has used thirty-three (33) months of his allowable thirty-six (36) months of G.I. Bill benefits back in the early 1970’s.

He is the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Adjutant for Chapter #63 (Clermont County). He can be contacted at: plahovinsak@msn.com.

Daniel Paul “Snake” Hill of Milford, OH, went home to be with the Lord on January 7, 2025, at the age of 68. Daniel was born on September 13, 1956, in Cincinnati, OH to Paul and Ruth Hill. He is survived by three sons: Robert Joe (Allison) Roller, Justin Roller and Benjamin Hill, two daughters: Sara Hill and Shannon Hill, five grandchildren: Alexa Hill, Kolton Dumpbert, Andrea Roller, Courtney Roller and Serenity Horne, two sisters: Karen S. (Ron) Richmond and Bettie (Steve) Aubrey, also survived by 10 nieces and nephews and many dear friends. Daniel is preceded in death by his parents, Paul V. and Ruth (nee Ponchot) Hill. Daniel graduated from Clermont Northeastern High School. He proudly served in the United States Army. Daniel worked for many years at General Electric building aircraft engines. Friends will be received from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday, January 13 at Tufts Schildmeyer Funeral Home, 1668 St. Rt. 28, Goshen, where a second visitation will take place from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. with services to follow at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, January 14. Interment with military honors will take place at Greenlawn Cemetery, Milford, OH.

On November 20, 2024, Jane Armstrong Snell, cherished mother of Marnie Gail Crane (James Nettleton) and grandmother to Liam Bennett Murphy, passed away peacefully in her Alexandria, VA home. Also survived by her brother George F. Armstrong (Jean), niece Melissa Wright (Tom), niece at heart Julie Edmondson, and many other loved ones.

Preceded in death by her parents, Jessie and Ben Armstrong, and many other treasured friends and family. Jane was born, February 22, 1949, in Bob White, WV but was raised in Moscow, Ohio. Throughout her life, she made homes in Ohio, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, DC, Texas and Virginia. Jane was known for her independent spirit, resilient attitude, strength in adversity, natural leadership, witty humor and uncanny intuition. She was an EMT, police dispatcher, Girl Scout Leader, business owner and the Mayor of Chilo, Ohio for 14 years years. She shined most, however, as an expert friend, mom and mimi. Jane was a three-time Cancer Warrior and two-time survivor.

Celebration of Life: Sat. Jan. 18, 2025, 11:30 a.m. (fellowship from 10:30 a.m.) First Baptist Church, 213 Western Ave., New Richmond, OH, luncheon to follow.

This week’s Athlete of the Week is Skylar Hutchison, Senior, West Clermont Gymnastics.

Hutchison was named as part of the Eastern Cincinnati Conference Athletes of the Week for Jan. 12, 2025. According to the ECC, “This is Skylar’s third season doing high school gymnastics and is a captain of the Anderson HS gymnastics program this year. At the Country Day Cup at CCD on Saturday, Skylar had the highest all-around score from our program with a score of 32.15. Skylar was ninth place all around, as well as placing eighth on beam with a score of 8.25 and eighth on floor with a score of 8.8.”

• Important Dates: 2/10 Pitchers and Catchers Report, 2/17 Full Squad Workout, 2/22 First Spring Training Game vs. Guardians, 3/27 Reds Opening Day vs Giants
• Cincinnati had a record of 77-85 in 2024 with a ton of injuries. The Reds currently have an O/U of 78.5. I think they are 2 games better in comparison to last season. I’d bet the over if I was a betting man (I am)
• Major Additions: Brady Singer, Jose Trevino, Gavin Lux, Owen White, Terry Francona
• Major Subtractions: David Bell, Jonathan India, Fernando Cruz, Luke Maile (Addition by subtraction with Luke), Buck Farmer, Jakob Junis, Ty France

Possible Rotation and Bullpen

• Rotation Mix – Hunter Greene, Brady Singer, Nick Lodolo, Nick Martinez, Rhett Lowder, Andrew Abbott
• Bullpen Mix – Graham Ashcraft, Julian Aguiar, Alexis Diaz, Casey Legumina, Sam Moll, Luis Mey, Connor Phillips, Lyon Richardson, Tony Santillan, Carson Spiers, Brent Suter, Yosver Zulueta
• Pitchers to keep an eye on – Chase Burns (Fast Track?), Chase Petty, Zach Maxwell

Possible Starting Lineups as the Roster Stands

Vs RHP

• McLain (2B)
• De La Cruz (SS)
• Steer (DH)
• Stephenson (C)
• Candelario (3B)
• Lux (LF)
• Encarnacion-Strand (1B)
• Friedl (CF)
• Fraley (RF)
• Bench – Marte, Espinal, Trevino, Fairchild

Vs LHP

• Friedl (RF?)
• De La Cruz (SS)
• McLain (CF?)
• Marte (DH)
• Fairchild (LF?)
• Espinal (2B)
• Trevino (C)
• Candelario (1B)
• Steer (3B)
• Bench – Fraley, Lux, Encarnacion-Strand, Stephenson

Others Who Could Improve and Get Playing Time

• Will Benson, Rece Hinds, Tyler Callihan, Blake Dunn, Jacob Hurtubise

Clear Needs

• Outfield Power Bat, Defined Positions, Clarity on Pitching Roles, Extended Bullpen Help, Young Players to Shine, Injuries to be Limited

Way Too Early Predictions

• Reds MVP – De La Cruz
• BA Leader – McLain
• HR Leader – De La Cruz
• OBP Leader – Steer
• Wins Leader – Greene
• ERA Leader – Singer
• Strikeout Leader – Greene
• Bullpen ERA Leader - Moll

Boys basketball

Top scorers (Jan. 6-Jan. 11): 24 – Carson Duke (West Clermont) vs. Kings.

19 – Cam Arington (Milford) vs. Sycamore.

17 – Connor Yeager (Clermont Northeastern) vs. Felicity-Franklin and vs. West Clermont.

14 - Brody Fisher (Williamsburg) vs. Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy.

Top rebounders: 15 – Connor Yeager (Clermont Northeastern) vs. Felicity-Franklin.

12 – Connor Yeager (Clermont Northeastern) vs. West Clermont.

8 – Brody Fisher (Williamsburg) vs. Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy.

7 – Cameron Strause (West Clermont) vs. Kings; Lane Madden (west Clermont) v. Clermont Northeastern.

Assists: 4 – Lane Madden, Nate Stahl and Carson Duke (West Clermont) vs. Clermont Northeastern.

Steals: 5 – Connor Yeager (Clermont Northeastern) vs. West Clermont.

4 – Carson Tenhundfeld (West Clermont) vs. Clermont Northeastern.

Standings (as of Jan. 11): Eastern Cincinnati Conference (overall, ECC) – Kings 7-2, 6-1; Winton Woods 7-1, 4-1; Little Miami 9-3, 4-2; Lebanon 5-4, 3-2; West Clermont 8-4, 4-3; Walnut Hills 4-5, 3-3; Turpin 4-6, 3-4; Loveland 5-4, 1-4; Milford 3-7, 1-5; Anderson 2-5, 0-4.

SBAAC American (overall, SBAAC) – Goshen 7-4, 5-0; Batavia 5-3, 4-1; Wilmington 3-7, 2-2; New Richmond 4-3, 2-3; Western Brown 2-7, 1-3; Clinton-Massie 3-7, 0-5.

SBAAC National – Bethel-Tate 8-4, 6-1; Williamsburg 5-6, 4-1; Clermont Northeastern 5-6, 4-2; Felicity-Franklin 6-4, 3-3; Georgetown 2-54, 2-3; East Clinton 1-10, 1-4; Blanchester 1-10, 0-6.

Girls basketball

Top scorers (Jan. 6-Jan. 11): 31 – Layla Hale (West Clermont) vs. Kings.

22 – Katy Wilber (Loveland) vs. Anderson.

20 – Gabby Chadwell (Milford) vs. Lebanon.

Top rebounders: 11 – Myah Redmon (Goshen) vs. Western Brown.

10 – Molly Schuster (New Richmond) vs. Clinton-Massie.

9 – Izzy Hughes (New Richmond) v. Clinton-Massie.

8 – Morgan Catron (New Richmond) vs. Clinton-Massie; Ally Thompson (Bethel-tate0 vs. Blanchester,

7 – Kam Lowe (West Clermont) vs. Winton Woods; Gwen Miller (West Clermont) vs. Winton Woods; Rachel Morgan (Milford) vs. Lebanon; Makenzie Riddle (Bethel-Tate) vs. Blanchester.

6- Layla Hale (West Clermont) vs. Winton Woods.

Assists: 12 – Meagyn Riffle (West Clermont) vs. Kings.

4 – Katy Wilber (Loveland) vs. Anderson.

Steals: 5 – Gabby Chadwell (Milford) vs. Lebanon.

4 – Violet Shuluga (Milford) vs. Lebanon; Izzy Hughes (New Richmond) vs. Clinton-Massie.

Blocked shots: 3 – Kam Lowe (West Clermont) vs. Winton Woods.

Standings (as of Jan. 11): Eastern Cincinnati Conference (overall, ECC) – Winton Woods 10-0, 6-0; Walnut Hills 10-3, 6-2; West Clermont 9-3, 6-2; Lebanon 6-7, 5-3; Milford 8-3, 4-3; Little Miami 5-4, 4-3; Loveland 6-5, 2-4; Kings 3-9, 2-6; Anderson 2-9, 1-5; Turpin 0-12, 0-7.

SBAAC American (overall, SBAAC) – Goshen 9-3, 5-1; Western Brown 8-5, 5-1; Wilmington 4-6, 3-3; Batavia 5-6, 3-3; Clinton-Massie 3-9, 2-4; New Richmond 3-10, 0-6.

SBAAC National – Williamsburg 12-2, 4-0; Georgetown 5-6, 2-1; Clermont Northeastern 6-7, 2-2; Blanchester 4-8, 1-3; Bethel-Tate 3-10, 1-4

Boys bowling

Top scores (two-game series, 350 or higher): 490 – Landen Fischer (Goshen) vs. Blanchester.

443 – Wyatt Glassmeyer (Loveland) vs. Kings.

433 – A.J. Cameron (Goshen) vs. Blanchester

424 – Kian Bronner (Loveland) vs. Kings.

418 – Connor Burns (Loveland) vs. Kings.

380 – James Guillerman (New Richmond) vs. Western Brown.

372 – Ryan Fischer (New Richmond) vs. Western Brown.

356 – Max Rash (Batavia) vs. Wilmington.

Standings (as of Jan. 11): Eastern Cincinnati Conference (overall, ECC) – Lebanon 9-0, 3-0; West Clermont 5-0, 3-0; Loveland 4-1, 3-0; Anderson 4-2, 2-1; Little Miami 3-6, 2-2; Milford 6-2, 1-2; Walnut Hills 5-4, 1-2; Kings 1-11, 1-3; Winton Woods 1-5, 0-3; Turpin 1-5, 0-3.

SBAAC American (overall, SBAAC) – Clinton-Massie 8-0, 5-0; Western Brown 8-2, 6-2; Wilmington 5-5, 4-3; Goshen 5-3, 2-3; Batavia 1-4, 1-4; New Richmond 1-7, 0-6.

SBAAC National – East Clinton 8-0, 8-0; Blanchester 6-4, 6-4; Clermont Northeastern 4-2, 4-2; Georgetown 5-2, 3-2; Bethel-Tate 2-7, 2-4; Felicity-Franklin 1-6, 1-6; Williamsburg 0-8, 0-7.

Girls bowling

Top scores (two-game series, 300 or higher): 406 – Taylor Hooks (West Clermont) vs. Turpin.

370 – Faith Clark (Batavia) vs. Wilmington.

362 – Meagan Kangas (New Richmond) vs. Western Brown.

361 – Heaven Clark (Batavia) vs. Wilmington.

323 – Rachel Ford (West Clermont) vs. Turpin.

Standings (as of Jan. 11): Eastern Cincinnati Conference (overall, ECC) – Lebanon 9-0, 3-0; Milford 7-0, 3-0; Walnut Hills 6-3, 3-0; West Clermont 5-2, 2-1; Anderson 2-2, 1-2; Kings 3-7, 1-2; Little Miami 4-5, 1-3; Loveland 0-1, 0-1; Turpin 1-3, 0-2; Winton Woods 0-6, 0-3.

SBAAC American (overall, SBAAC) – Wilmington 10-0, 7-0; Western Brown 6-4, 6-2; Batavia 2-3, 2-3; Clinton-Massie 2-3, 2-3; New Richmond 2-6, 1-5; Goshen 1-7, 0-5.

SBAAC National – Bethel-Tate 7-3, 6-0; Georgetown 6-1, 5-0; Blanchester 6-4, 5-4; Felicity-Franklin 3-4, 3-4; Williamsburg 3-5, 2-4; East Clinton 2-6, 2-5; Clermont Northeastern 0-6, 0-6.

Boys wrestling

Goshen placed fourth and Bethel-Tate 13th in the 24-team Bob Kearns Invitational at Madeira High School. Individual placers:

First place, Gage Croley, Goshen, 157 pounds; Kash Keitz, Goshen, 175. Second place, Landen Collin, Bethel-Tate, 157. Third place, Carson Kessen, Goshen, 138. Fourth place, Jaxson Valentine, Goshen, 106.

Loveland placed fifth in the nine-team Coach Bulugaris Classic at Beavercreek, Individual placers: First, Danny Waters, 285. Second, Nick Dent, 132; Calob Heilman, 190. Third, Eric Earl, 165; Randy Madison, 215. Fourth, Aiden Dowey, 113; Tyler Scherman, 138; Nate Boston, 175. Fifth, Will Hossenlopp, 120; Cooper Brown, 126. Sixth, Reece Webster, 106; Carson Horton, 126.

Milford placed 15^th and Batavia tied for 21^st in the Ron Masanek invitational at Fairfield High School. Individual placers:

Fifth, Colin Smith, Milford, 175.

Athletes of the Week

The Eastern Cincinnati Conference honored these Milford and West Clermont student-athletes for the week of Jan. 6:

Loveland – Danny Waters, wrestling.

Milford – Patrick Eminger, diving.

Staff at the Clermont County Animal Shelter went above and beyond the call of duty during a recent snowstorm.

Darlene Williams and Max Simmons, both kennel technicians, and Maddy Annis, a veterinarian tech assistant, spent more than 48 hours straight at the shelter to make sure resident dogs got lots of extra hugs and playtime while Mother Nature blasted Greater Cincinnati with more than 10 inches of snow Jan. 5 and 6.

The trio extended their scheduled eight-hour workdays and stayed at the shelter Sunday morning until late Tuesday afternoon, sleeping in a utility room where laundry and cleaning supplies are normally kept.

“I’m a dog lover,” said Williams, 40. “It was a dream come true to have a slumber party with all kinds of dogs. It was great to spend more time with the dogs and see how happy it made them to play in the snow and get extra attention.”

Annis, 18, brought a cot, some extra clothes, snacks and a toothbrush to her shift that Sunday morning on the assumption the forecast for heavy snow would make it too hard for her and her coworkers to get home or return the next day.

Figuring out what to do for warm meals was the hardest part, Simmons, 20, said. DoorDash wasn’t delivering during the storm.

The best part for Simmons? Making snow angels with a dog named Hank!

Volunteers Emilie Peters and Krissy Neal stepped up to help fill the food gap. They braved the elements to bring the hungry staffers groceries and to play with the dogs. The husband of another volunteer dropped off Wendy’s for dinner Monday evening.

Showering was another challenge. The team improvised, using a hose with running water to wash off.

“It was just like camping,” said Williams. “We had to rough it out.”

But not so much that it dampened the staff’s dedication.

“We all bonded,” Williams added.

And all three returned for their regular shifts Wednesday morning.

The Clermont County Animal Shelter is a no-kill facility that provides a safe and caring place for stray, lost and neglected dogs. Its mission is to reunite lost pets with their owners, reduce the number of homeless dogs, offer adoption services and serve as a resource for the public about responsible pet ownership and pet care. The county-run shelter at 4025 Filager Road in Batavia takes in nearly 800 dogs a year on average.

The facility includes approximately 10,752 square feet of indoor kennel, medical and office space and approximately 7,545 square feet of outdoor kennel and play area spaces. An expansion project slated for this year will more than double the shelter’s outdoor kennel capacity.

Pictured are select photos from our January 6-7, 2025, Snowstorm Community Gallery. Thanks to all who submitted their photos.

On Jan. 6, the Clermont County Sheriff’s Office shared that Clermont County was at a Level 2 Snow Emergency.

“Based on poor road conditions across the entire county and after consultation with command staff, County Engineer, and other public safety entities it is determined that driving would create risks and difficulties, particularly for road clearing operations,” read the press release.

According to the information, Level 2 roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads may also be very icy. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roads. Contact your employer to see if you should report to work. Motorists should use extreme caution.