MIAGD: STAR TREK turns 50

MIAGD: make it a great day

[Darin’s Log, Stardate 2016]

Upon wakening, one of the first things I noticed on my Facebook newsfeed was a photograph posted by Bellbrook band director, Barb Siler.

Ahhh…. Barb must have turned fifty years old, today.  Hmmm….  I thought Barb was born in December, sharing the day with someone else I know.

Since, I would address it later, I went on with my morning.

I gave my on-line class their break at 9:45 AM, and scrolled through my list of birthday  celebrants.  I sent out the birthday greetings, and noticed Barb was not on the list.

I went to her page to send her a birthday greeting, still questioning a September vs December birthday.

More interesting discoveries…. no one was posting birthday greetings to Barb?  What?

[If you are presuming that these lack of Trekkie experiences in any way impede my ability to command this ship/blog, you are mistaken.] 

Barb is a devoted, and deeply respected, beloved music educator, and colleague to many.  Even her Bellbrook band colleague, Chris Foster, had not offered his typical “solfeggio” birthday greeting.

I went to Barb’s “About” section, verifying her birthday IS in December.

Then, I saw Debbie McCutcheon’s new, temporary profile photograph noting the 50th anniversary of STAR TREK.

[If you eliminate the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.]

Mystery solved.

[I intend to assist in the effort to reestablish birthday communication with Barbfleet this December.].

So, while you are living long, and prospering, don’t forget to make it a great day, Vulcan Folks!

[I am now a member of an endangered species known as Non-Trekkie.]

  

  

Honey Boo Boo video

LOL….  Oh my God!  The similarities are endless!

Honey Boo Boo’s video

 

Friday the 13th

You know it is Friday the 13th when you look through someone’s photos on Facebook and you see them posing with someone who looks just like Honey Boo Boo.

Nightmares!

2014 in review

The WordPress.com stats helper monkeys prepared a 2014 annual report for this blog.

Here’s an excerpt:

The concert hall at the Sydney Opera House holds 2,700 people. This blog was viewed about 15,000 times in 2014. If it were a concert at Sydney Opera House, it would take about 6 sold-out performances for that many people to see it.

Click here to see the complete report.

Honey Boo Boo singing

Uh huh… just what I thought, too!

Band Camp Funny

The funniest thing heard at band camp last week: “They are big Christians or should I say, they really are BIGGER than most Christians.”

 

Question:

QUESTION:  Why do cows try to hide their faces when they see you coming?

Two new arrivals…

After a trip to New Mexico this Thursday thru Sunday, two Navajo brothers, 14 and 12, will be returning with their new dad to live in Kettering, Ohio to begin a new life.

10 Things Christians Should Not Do

It is amazing just how many Christians avoid, ignore the items on this list… several seem to be too busy being their own Gods while professing to worship another.

http://sojo.net/blogs/2013/06/10/10-things-you-cant-do-while-following-jesus#.UcJrktyrikk.facebook

 

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Talk

A fun Saturday

We got up early, and by 9am we were having pancakes and eggs for breakfast.

After showers and walking the dogs, we headed to Carillon Historical Park to take early Spring photos.  We ran into Alice Hoover and her fiance, David.

The return trip home included some shopping.  Pets are fed, and now it is our turn: pork steak, baked potatoes and shell macaroni and cheese.

Sufi Saying….

 

And also ask, “Is it Christ-like?” If you’ve ignored the first three this fourth question doesn’t even matter.

 

Behind You

Center of the Universe

 

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New Blog Site

Since I am dealing with SPAM on this site, and other vermin, I have begun a new site.

If you wish to follow me on the new site, please contact me at dljh@sbcglobal.net and I will give you the new address.

Thank you for your support, and encouragement!

Matthew 23:27

“Woe to you, you hypocrites!  You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and everything unclean.”

James 1:26

A friend was discussing a situation where some folks at their church, who are always painting themselves to be extraordinary Christians, were actually bringing down a fellow church member’s reputation.  Their plot is quite extraordinary, and so masterfully disguised that others would not recognize their actions.  How sad… How cruel…  But, in the end, the justice will be served.

James 1:26 ESV

If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.

Farewell, 2012… it was a very good year!

I don’t think I have ever enjoyed a year as much as I have enjoyed this one.  Despite too many funerals of loved ones this fall, 2012 was filled with many new, wonderful, exciting journeys.  I am ready to repeat this journey in 2013, only double the wonderful, exciting journeys!

The new year will start off with judging a show choir invitational, watching students perform with The Muse Machine, and within the first month, I will be an uncle, for the fourth time, to Destin and Stacia’s newest addition.

Wishing our family and friends, near far, a beautiful, healthy, exciting, and prosperous new year.

2012 in review

The WordPress.com stats helper monkeys prepared a 2012 annual report for this blog.

Here’s an excerpt:

4,329 films were submitted to the 2012 Cannes Film Festival. This blog had 41,000 views in 2012. If each view were a film, this blog would power 9 Film Festivals

Click here to see the complete report.

“She folded her napkin…”

Around this time, two years ago, my son walked into my study and said, “Dad, watch this.”

He gave Flyer the command to sit, and then said, “Catch,” to the dog who would do back flips in mid-air to catch a snow ball.  My son tossed a treat gently toward Flyer.  The treat bounced off her nose.  She immediately went into sniff-mode around the floor to find the treat.

I took a treat from my son and repeated the process.  The second treat also bounced off her nose.

For several weeks I had noticed Flyer was bumping into things, and losing her balance.  Being deaf in one ear, I know how difficult maintaining balance is.  I knew Flyer was not losing her hearing as she could be sound asleep and could hear the quietest noise from the kitchen.

It took me several weeks to accept the fact that my beloved little pal was blind.  The previous August, 2010, was when Flyer almost died from severe pancreatitis.  The afternoon we brought her home from the veterinarian’s office, preparing for our vet-friend to come over the next morning to put her down, I began researching her condition.  This research led to her recovery.  However, I also learned that her sight would be compromised due to the extremely out-of-control, undetected, diabetes.  The next morning, Flyer was up, and walking around, and showing distinct signs of getting stronger.

The fury little trooper survived, and returned to her old self.

Several months later, I was researching how to accommodate a blind dog.  These past two years, Flyer has done a superb job adjusting to her new world.  This makes one love this dog all the more.  She is, undoubtedly, one of the most adorable, intelligent, and loving dogs I’ve ever had (Logan, my cat of 17.5 years equaled Flyer in intelligence!).

This week, I removed all the furniture from my bedroom, thoroughly cleaned the carpets, and rearranged the layout.  As with any other changes in the house, or yards, I take Flyer on a walk-thru.  She sniffs, and followed my verbal, or finger-snap commands, exploring the new setting.  Once, I had traded the wooden floor mat in the bathroom with a rug, placing the wooden mat before the kitchen sink.  Flyer stepped on the wooden mat,  felt around it and sniffed, walked into the bathroom, felt around it and sniffed, and returned to the kitchen with her tail wagging and her body shaking with excitement.

For two years, Flyer has not been comfortable sleeping in bed with me, or laying on any furniture.  Last night, however, she discovered the chair Quintin and I brought up from the basement.  Flyer was a puppy when I brought this chair home, and it was one of her favorite comfy-zones in my study while I worked at my desk, or taught lessons.  At 3:30am, after Quintin and I finished watching AUGUST RUSH, Flyer seemed excited to rediscover her favorite chair.

And she hopped up into the chair and slept the remaining few hours until 7:30am struck, and all three dogs were ready to start their day.  All I could think of was a line from the play/movie, THE MIRACLE WORKER, when Mrs. Keller exclaims, about Helen’s newest achievement, “She folded her napkin!”  Flyer’s hopping into the chair was one of those napkin-folding moments for me.

After breakfasting, Flyer came back into my bed-sitting room and hopped back into her chair.  It really is nice having her resting in the center of the room, and not curled up in the corner, out of the way.

Wright State University Theatre Department’s 2013-2014 Season…

Looking ahead to next season, Wright State University is among the first arts organizations in The Miami Valley to announce its 2013-14 lineup.

The mainstage offerings will consist of

• “Harvey”

• Mary Chase’s Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy
• co-directed by W. Stuart McDowell and a director TBA)

“Oklahoma!”

• directed by Greg Hellems and choreographed by Teressa Wylie McWilliams

“The Magic Fire”

• the local premiere of Lillian Groag’s Argentinean drama
• directed by Lee Merrill

“Les Miserables”

• the regional collegiate premiere
• directed by McDowell

“The Wild Party”

• local premiere of Andrew Lippa’s musical
• directed by Jamie Cordes

“The Cherry Orchard”

• directed by Marya Spring Cordes
• presented in the downstairs, black box Herbst Theatre

Christmas morning…

By 8:00am, the festivities had begun with the stockings being emptied.  A short while later, the symphony of ripping and wadding paper began, accompanied by squeals of delight.

A delicious brunch was consumed, followed by family time – mostly watching the little peeps with their new presents.

Will begin the return to The Miami Valley shortly.

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Arriving in Fowler…

Christmas Eve morning, Quintin, Flyer, Navi, Chief and I loaded into the car and pulled out of our driveway at 8:55am.  After two stops of pottying and food, we safely, and rather quickly, arrived in Fowler, at 12:58pm – three hours.

We drove around taking some photos, and then settled in at Destin and Stacia’s to enjoy some family time before picking up Mother for our traditional Chinese supper on Christmas Eve.

We finished dinner in Lafayette, and returned to Fowler for Christmas Eve service at Fowler United Methodist Church.

A beautiful day, and evening!

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Dayton Ballet: THE NUTCRACKER

I had never seen THE NUTCRACKER until this afternoon.  Quintin, to his knowledge, had never seen a ballet.  So, today was a rare treat for us, both.

This production was a brilliant collaboration between The Dayton Ballet and The Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra.  It was beautifully executed in every way!  What was so exciting, for me, was to see my seventeen year old son leaning forward in his seat to watch the orchestra, and staging.

I don’t know how I have missed making THE NUTCRACKER a part of my holiday tradition, but I can guarantee it will not happen again.  And despite inserting it within last minute Christmas preparations was a brilliant decision on my part.  Today’s presentation at The Schuster Center seemed to wrap up this Christmas with a beautiful, musical bow.

I must be honest… as the Snow Queen and Snow King danced during the finale to Act One, my eyes were moist with emotion from the sheer beauty, and artistry I was witnessing.  I love these moments when my own field of the performing arts can still move me.

At intermission, Quintin and I sat out on the upper balcony’s balcony watching the folks that passed by.  Quinny said that we’ve really seen some great things the past few weeks, right in our own backyard:

The Human Race Theatre Company’s production, OLIVER!

The Muse Machine’s understudy performance of their January production, CRAZY FOR YOU

The Dayton Balley & Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra’s, THE NUTCRACKER

Three weekends with a brilliant musical offering for each.

Mastro Neal Gittleman never ceases to amaze me with his energy, and the exciting quality he manages to capture with his musicians.  For one thing, unlike so many professional conductors, you can actually follow his conducting – he is fun to watch!  And, there were several movements from THE NUTCRACKER I had never heard before, or at least did not recognize them as a movement from the score.  There were also incredible musical lines I had never noticed in recordings – Tchaikovsky is one of my favorite  composers.

The real treat was the question/answer session following the production.  Featured dancer, Case Bodamer, and two of his lovely colleagues, fielded questions from gathered audience members, and truly added an additional dimension to this total experience.   Knowing the familiar post-performance fatigue that often sets in, I so appreciated this trio taking the time to share their experiences, and their passion, with those of us gathered.

So, Miami Valley folks: you must go see Dayton Ballet’s 2013 production of THE NUTCRACKER.  My son and I will be there as part of our family’s new tradition.

Around the valley…

This morning, after doing some shopping at our favorite local music store, McCutcheon Music of Centerville, we traipsed around the Miami Valley taking photos of various sites.

Springboro:  Null log cabin

Franklin, Ohio:  various buildings

Miamisburg, Ohio:  The Adena Native American Mound, buildings

Germantown, Ohio

Mary Belle Jones-Clary

Today would have been the 115th birthday of my great-grandmother, Mary Belle Jones-Clary.

December 20, 1897 – January 28, 1969

Belle was the daughter of Joel Monroe Jones & Anna Greenlee, and the older sister of Alpha, Henry & Harry.

Belle married John William Garrett Clary on September 30, 1920, and they had three children, Ronald Monroe Jones (1921-1936), Donna Mae Clary-Barmes (1924-1992), and Joyce Ann Clary-Riser (1933).

Belle & Garrett Clary with their daughters, Donna & Joyce

Garrett & Belle Clary, 1964

Belle with her great-grandson, Darin 1965

Belle’s mother, Anna Greenlee Jones

Belle & Henry Jones

Belle & Alpha Jones

4 generations, 1964: Belle, Diana, Darin, Donna

New Beginnings… an anniversary

Two years ago, today, my 15 year old son, Quintin, arrived in Dayton from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to join our family.

At our home, surrounded by family and friends, his case worker who accompanied him on the flight, led us in a Navajo candle-lighting ceremony to celebrate his birth family, those who assisted him on his adoption and foster journey, and his new adoptive family.

Quintin with his new grandma

Adoption photolisting

Adoption photolisting

The 1st photo I saw of Quintin

Our traditional 1st meal @ Wendy’s

Quintin’s wonderful foster family

Ella Joan, Quin’s New Mexico attorney

Quin & Valerie Gonzales Dec 2010

Quin & Dr. Thomas Dec 2010

The candle lighting ceremony Dec 20, 2010

News from Matching Assistance-Parent Support Groups

Support Groups for Adoptive Parents

Adoptive parents need so much support during their adoption journey. Adoption can be a long and often frustrating process, and without support and proper guidance families may feel lost, overwhelmed, and confused. Joining a support group is the best way for a family to find the help they need on their journey. It is a way for adoptive families to connect with other adoptive families who have been through the process. These veteran adoptive families can offer valuable support, encouragement and guidance. Through these support groups families can get their questions answered, their frustrations validated, and learn the ins and outs of the foster care and adoption systems. If you are currently seeking to adopt a child from foster care, I encourage you to look through the national support groups listed below, and to talk with your adoption worker about finding local support groups. If you have friends and family who have adopted before, reach out to them as well. And don’t forget to mention your support group in your family biography and home study-caseworkers want to see that you are resourceful not only when it comes to the needs of the child you’re seeking to adopt, but also your needs. You have to remember that as an adoptive parent, you will need other people to lean on when times are tough, and you will need to be surrounded by people physically or virtually that will be able to help you and provide guidance and answers. If you have adopted a child before, I encourage you to join a support group as well, and offer your thoughts and suggestions to other adoptive families. I know that you have your own stories to share and have a lot of great advice to give to families. Common Post-Adoption Issues   The following is a list of common issues and challenges that adoptive parents face post-adoption. It may be beneficial for you to seek out education, support, therapy or other resources to learn more about these challenges, and how to overcome them as a family: Loss and grief. Both adoptive children and adoptive parents experience loss and grief. Children may be mourning the loss of a parent, sibling, family member, or even a foster parent. This loss may be due to death, but more likely it is due to separation. Despite what a child’s parent may put them through, they may still feel an attachment with them, and will be upset when they are taken away from their parent. They may also feel anger towards their birth parent, or may even worry about their parent’s circumstances. Feelings of loss and grief may change over time, and appear during different stages in a child’s life. These feelings may come out as hostility towards their adoptive parents. It is important that you seek out whatever services your child needs to help them overcome their loss and grief. Research different types of therapies and find a local therapist that can work with your child and your family on this issue. As an adoptive parent, you may be feeling sadness over not being able to conceive a child, or stress from the entire adoption process. It is important for you to also seek out any services you may need, and to find a supportive group of people to help you. Understanding adoption. Children’s understanding of adoption will change as they get older, and so will their comprehension of it social and emotional complexities. As a parent you need to be able to explain adoption and what it means to a child as they come to you with questions. A preschooler will have very different questions than an adolescent, so do some research on what common questions are and how to answer them. Keep in mind that you never want to lie to a child. Telling them the truth will help them process and understand the information better. Trust and attachment. Children who have been placed up for adoption in the foster care system have experienced a break in attachment-first when they were removed from their birth parent’s home, and again every time they are moved around to multiple foster homes. As a result, it may be difficult for a child to establish an attachment, because disrupted attachments are all they have ever known. You need to convey to your child through words and actions that you will be there for them forever, and that you will love them no matter what. They may also have a difficult  time learning to trust adults, so keeping consistent with your words and actions will allow them to heal and learn to trust again. These children need help coming to terms with what transpired and learn how to move forward. School problems. Children in foster care often bounce around from school to school during their many placements. As a result of these frequent changes,they may be facing social and academic challenges. As a parent, it is important for you to seek out services that will help your child succeed in school. Most foster children have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) in place to help them in the classroom. It is important that you make sure that their IEP will transfer to their new school, or you will have the ability to set one up for them. In addition, find out who your child’s teacher(s) will be, and talk to them one-on-one about your child’s needs. Subjects like genetics may bring up some negative feelings, so it is important to address these issues right away. Socially, foster children may have a difficult time making friends due to their learned behaviors, their status as a foster or adopted child, the fact that they are behind academically than their peers, and because they may have attended multiple schools. Seeking out a school psychologist or educational consultant may prove helpful to ensure that a child receives the services they need. Parents may find support groups helpful as well to point them in the right direction of other educational resources. Identity formation. Adolescents and teenagers who are adopted may experience some challenges when it comes to their identity. They may struggle with what their values are, who they are, and how they are different from the rest of the family and their peers. They may also have questions that relate to their birth parents that are unanswerable, contributing to their confusion. In addition, children of a different race or culture may also experience identity formation issues. Seeking out services and answers to help your child transition into your family will be very beneficial. Birth relative contact. This is a tricky subject for most families. Children may want to have some form of contact with their parents or relatives, which can be hard to understand for an adoptive parent, especially in cases of abuse or neglect. Adopted children will need to maintain some level of contact with their biological relatives, especially if they were separated from their siblings. They may also want to remain in contact with a former foster family if they were especially close. As an adoptive parent it is important that you understand this need and desire, and set up a plan that will ensure safe communication. There are many forms of contact- visits, phone calls, letters, to name a few-so you need to work together as a family to decide what the best course of action is. Some families choose to allow contact with birth parents or biological relatives once the child turns 18, or they may allow contact if it is safe and in the best interest of the child. Your agency may be able to provide information about birth family contact information or be able to mediate. Medical concerns. Children in foster care may not receive the medical attention they need, especially if they are in multiple placements. The child’s caseworker may not have complete medical records for the child either, or any records at all for their biological parents. It is important that you seek out a physician to give your child the medical attention they need, and provide as accurate as an assessment as they can about their medical history. Racial concerns. If you are seeking to adopt a child of another race, keep in mind the challenges they will face trying to blend into your family and also their new community. Talk to family members and friends and make sure they are on board with you adopting a child of another race, and make sure to address any issues before adoption. Seek out groups or activities in your area that a child could be part of that would make them feel comfortable. It can be as simple as finding a friend or mentor of the same race that your child could look up to, or locating a specialized service or group like a hair styling place that specializes in African-American hair, or a festival that celebrates Native American heritage. Seek out support groups, friends and family members that have experience in trans-racial adoption to best prepare yourself for the questions and challenges you and your child will face. Types of Parent Support Groups There are many different types of support groups available to adoptive parents. The following is a list compiled by Child Welfare Information Gateway that families have identified as the most helpful: Adoptive Parent Support Groups. In this type of group, adoptive parents and prospective adoptive parents come together to ask questions, give advice, and provide support. These types of groups range from small intimate groups, to larger groups that may have hundreds of members. These groups may restrict their focus to families who have adopted children with certain characteristics, or they may include all adoptive families. National groups may be organized into local chapters. Programs and services offered by these groups often include: Telephone warm lines Buddy families Respite care Lending library Workshops/conferences Pre-adoption support Social activities Children’s support groups Ethnic heritage activities Newsletter Information and referral Online Support Groups. These groups are available 24 hours a day to families, and provide a level of convenience. There are thousands of online support groups that families may join, and like other support groups, they may find the answers they are looking for from people who have gone through the same experiences. It is important to exercise caution when using online support groups just like any other website, and not give out personal or identifying information. Therapy. There are many different types of therapy available. Families may seek out counseling as problems or concerns arise. Some families will seek therapy for a long period of time, or use it to check in for help as they need it. Respite care. Respite care is available to families who need a break and a chance to relax and get away. This service gives parents a break from their parenting duties, and is meant for families who have children with needs that exceed the skills and training of a regular babysitter. Respite care can take place in the families home, or out of the home, with the parents bringing their child(ren) to a designated place. Respite care may be available on a crisis-based need, or on a regular schedule. Families may find more information on respite care through their local adoption agency or an adoption support group. Seminars and conferences. Many support groups and adoption agencies offer seminars and conferences that families may attend. These conferences offer adoption issues education, and may last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. At adoption conferences, parents may have their questions about specific adoption issues answered by experts in the field, get to know other adoptive families, and purchase additional adoption resources. You can locate a conference near you by going to this site. Books and magazines. There are many books and magazines available for adoptive parents to read and subscribe to. A Family for Every Child has established a large list of reading materials here. Books are an excellent resource for families to learn about different techniques to handle various adoption challenges or kids questions. They may also be used to explain adoption to young children. Magazines are another excellent resource, offering up-to-date research on current adoption issues and challenges. Families may subscribe for magazines in the mail or online. Camps, recreational opportunities, and heritage camps. Families may attend overnight camps or retreats to help them connect with themselves and other family members. These camps offer adoption and ethnic heritage education, combined with other camp activities. Ethnic heritage camps serve children of different ethnicities. At these camps, children may connect with older youth and teens, who serve as role models. These camps are a great way for children to connect with other children and youth, and form lifelong connections and support.   Finding Post-adoption Services Families may find post-adoption services at any of the following locations: Public and private adoption agencies Specialized post-adoption services organizations Adoptive parent support groups State and county adoption offices and post-adoption specialists State post-adoption resource centers Public and private mental health service providers Community health organizations   Source: Child Welfare Information Gateway. (2005). Postadoption Services: A Factsheet for Families. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Make a Gift and Make History!

Make a Gift and Make History!

Polen Farm in Kettering

All these years of living in Centerville/Kettering, and I had never been to Polen Farm.  I had driven past the Bigger Road location countless times, but had no reason for stopping.  In fact, honestly do not ever remember noticing the imposing house – which is hard to believe.  When I saw it in someone’s Facebook album this past week, I had to ask where the home was located.

So, today, Quintin and I ventured over to Polen Farm to take photos.  We had a blast!

CRAZY FOR YOU: Muse Machine’s Understudy Performance

Tonight, I joined the Emery family, David, Maria and Raquel, in the Muse Machine’s rehearsal hall to watch the understudies for the January production, CRAZY FOR YOU, perform.  My student, David Emery, did a super job, as did the other fantastic younger performers.  Many great moments from these young talents, and the best staging I have seen in a Muse Machine production in many years!  Director Joe Deer, along with choreographer, Lula Elzy, seem to be a dynamic creative team, and I was thrilled to see such a fresh, crisp look in the musical staging!  I am looking forward to the full production in mid-January, but am so thrilled I was able to see the understudies, and a foretaste of the musical feast to come!

Producer Doug Merk

Director, Joe Deer

The Emery Family

The Emery Family

A Message from the Superintendent at this Difficult Time

Kettering Parents and Community Members:

At this very difficult time, our thoughts are with the young victims of the tragedy that took place at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14th, and we extend our deepest sympathies to the families and to the entire Newtown, Connecticut community as they deal with this horrible tragedy.

These types of tragedies compel us to talk with our own parents and community about the issue of safety in our schools. Student safety in school and at extra-curricular activities is the absolute top priority for everyone in the Kettering Schools. Sadly, even schools are not immune to violence, as today’s tragedy and recent incidents here in our own state and across the country have shown.

Our schools are public facilities and we work hard to make them open, welcoming and inviting. At the same time, we are mindful of our responsibility to keep students safe while they are at school. We do have safety procedures in place, such as locking doors in our buildings and requiring visitors to our schools to check in at our main offices. In addition, in the Kettering Schools, we work hard to know our students and families. We work hard to know their lives and their issues. We believe that our teachers and staff members are vigilant in working to know if something is not right, seeing danger coming and acting proactively to avert trouble. This is our first line of defense.

We also work in partnership with the Kettering Police Department in having School Resource Officers in our buildings on a daily basis, getting to know our students, providing support to our staff and serving as a resource in best practices for safety in a public buildings.

All of our buildings engage in regular practice drills — such as lock-downs and tornado and fire drills — so that we are prepared to respond to emergencies. And students are encouraged to report to an adult any knowledge they may have of a potential threat, be it confirmed or a rumor…and can do so anonymously.

I pledge to you that we will continue to do whatever it takes to keep our students…your children, grandchildren, neighbors and friends…safe in our schools. Thank you for the support you provide to the schools that allows us to make student safety a top priority and thank you for your understanding of the steps we take every day to assure that every child is safe while he or she is in school.

Knowing the Kettering community as I do, I am confident that our entire community joins together in sending our thoughts and sympathies to the Newtown community as they struggle to cope with this unimaginable tragedy.

Dr. Jim Schoenlein
Superintendent
Kettering City Schools

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Another great Christmas Concert from Fairmont’s Music Department

Last night, and Tuesday, the Fairmont High School Music Department presented their variety of ensembles in another exciting Christmas concert.  Over 300 young musicians joined forces to end the program with a suite of John Williams’ HOME ALONE.  Excellent!

Seasons Greetings from The Haasienda…

Beavercreek Church of the Nazarene Christmas Concert

Tonight, we attended, for the second year in a row, the Christmas concert presented by Beavercreek’s Church of the Nazarene.  The church’s choir was joined by Beavercreek High School’s A Capella Choir and the Friend’s Show Choir, all under the direction of Sharon Busch.  The evening’s lineup included John Rutter’s GLORIA, which is one of my absolute favorites!

An enjoyable evening!

Epiphany Lutheran Church’s Children’s Christmas Musical

One of my young students, Katie Kress, was the lead in Epiphany Lutheran Church’s children’s musical.  It was a good production, and I am proud of Miss Kate!  She chewed up the carpets!

2nd Street Market, Downtown Dayton & Calvary Cemetery

This morning we left for Dayton’s 2nd Street Market to look around and grab some lunch.  The last time I had been there was when Jeff Carter and Jim Helton came over from Ball State University to see the Princess Diana Wedding Gown Exhibit at the Dayton Art Institute.  The boys and I ate lunch, traveled around downtown Dayton to take photos.  The train exhibit was closed due to the bank’s hours, but we could still see it through the window.  We saw the Rike’s window displays again, and then traveled to Calvary Cemetery where we could see so many of the beautiful sculptures during the daylight hours.

Busy December and It’s Great In Dayton

Some really great events planned these next two weekends!

MOST IMPORTANT NEWS Third new restaurant to open in downtown Dayton In This Issue GOINGS ON NOW GREAT PERFORMANCES INTERESTING SHOPPING “NEWS” IN OUR AREA MESSAGE FROM MOLLY DIL’S (DAYTON IMPORTANT LINKS) LIFE WITH THE CAMPBELL’S THE NEON FILM EVENTS IN DAYTON GAS PRICE GILLY’S JAZZ DAYTON MOST METRO LOCAL LIVE DAYTON RAVE CINEMAS DAYTON SOUTH THE BLACK BOX IMPROV THEATER DAYTON JAZZ ADVOCATE DAYTON LOCAL WYSO Weekly 2 Minute Column DAYTON CITY PAPER, page 29 (A weekly column) You Are Here Dayton Ohio! FORWARD TO YOUR FRIENDS Click on the logo and sign up! December 4, 2012 Hi Darin, lots of things going on around here. LOCAL AUTHOR BOOK LAUNCH Made-up Twitter characters find way into a novel THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 6:00 – 7:30 PM at the DAI. Meet author Molly Campbell and illustrator Randy Palmer. Book signing, readings, and raffles. General Motors Entrance Rotunda (Book available for purchase in the brand new DAI Museum Store). Characters In Search Of A Novel Raffles: FIRST PRIZE: Would you like to name a character? One character name will be chosen, and author Molly D. Campbell will write a story about that “Character in Search of a Novel,” to be illustrated by Randy Palmer. Story and artwork will be matted and framed. Just think-your own story-to hang over the sofa in your rumpus room! SECOND PRIZE: Your own portrait, done by Randy Palmer, in “Character in Search of a Novel” style! THIRD PRIZE: Signed book, tucked inside a Loretta Squirrels tote bag, along with a “Characters in Search of a Novel” T-shirt. GOINGS ON NOW Third new restaurant to open in downtown Dayton Agnes All Natural Grill Two other restaurants info 23 St. Clair Street ~~~~~ Clothes Go Round, 1209 East Stroop in Kettering is having its Blow Out Going Out of Business Sales. Their lease ends Dec. 31. Maybe you want new racks and a mannequin for your walk in closet. They want to clear out 3800 square feet of stuff. ~~~~~ The Dayton Development Coalition (DDC) is in the midst of its annual Priority Development and Advocacy Committee (PDAC) process whereby it prioritizes the many worthwhile community projects contemplated throughout the Dayton Region. This process benefits the community by specifying what its top priorities are for funding – principally federal and state funding. Information about each project can be viewed by clicking on the project name. All public input will be provided to the review panels when they meet to discuss the categorization of the projects. Comments must be received by December 7, 2012. ~~~~~ Downtown’s next free First Friday art hop will be held from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, throughout the center city. Activated Spaces will host a tour of newly installed window clings featuring the work of local artists. The tour begins at American Pi, 37 S. St. Clair St. at 5:45 p.m. The tour will last about 30 minutes, and a reception at American Pi will continue afterward. The installation of the window clings is the final phase of the Activated Spaces Street Team art initiative, which placed works of art in vacant storefront windows throughout downtown. The installation theme, Colorful Dayton, aims to show the vibrancy of the Dayton community. The 10 clings have been placed in several locations throughout the core of downtown, featuring work by eight local artists, the City of Dayton and the Miami Conservancy District. ~~~~~ Spend First Friday, December 7, 5-8pm at the Dayton Society of Painters and Sculptors at the 48 High Street Gallery. This is the opening reception for Decembers exhibit. Gallery Hours are Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, 2-5pm ~~~~~ Stivers Celebrates Combine holiday shopping and a fabulous show! Come early and get unique gifts for everyone on your list. The Arts Gift Shop will open at 5:30pm. They make beautiful Christmas cards or a thoughtful gift. Performance begins at 7:00pm. ~~~~~ 11th Annual Women’s Recovery Center Santa 5K Run/Walk in Xenia: Saturday, December 8th, 2012 at 9:30. The annual event helps fund programs at the independent Women’s Recovery Center, a residential treatment facility for women recovering from addictions and behavioral health issues. WRC is one of the few “gender specific” treatment centers in SW Ohio where women can also bring their children into treatment. Many Dayton area women have sought help at this facility. Register at keysports ~~~~~ Saturdays At Noon Free for kids The Saturdays at Noon in December will mark the return of the Family Holiday Film Series – sponsored by The Dayton Holiday Festival, DP&L, Channel 99.9 and THE NEON. Here is this year’s line-up: DEC. 8 at Noon – IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE DEC. 15 at Noon – ARTHUR CHRISTMAS These films are free for children 12 & under and only $2 for everyone else. ~~~~~ Dayton International Peace Museum The 4th Annual Nobel Peace Prize Luncheon Honoring 2012 Nobel Peace Prize Winner, The European Union, Saturday, December 8th, 11:45 a.m., Dayton Women’s Club. 224 N. Ludlow St. Speaker, Ms. Silvia Kofler; Spokesperson, Head of Press and Public Diplomacy, Delegation of the European Union to the United States. And recognition of 2012 Dayton Peace Heroes. Dr. Charles Chatfield, internationally renowned Wittenberg University history professor emeritus, author, and activist, developed many courses in peace and played a significant role in the understanding that peace rests on justice. He has donated many of his peace books to the Museum’s Peace Library. Ms. Margaret E. Peters, a teacher in the Dayton Public Schools for many years, is also an historian and author. By creating and administering the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. K-12 Art, Poetry & Essay Contest, she has brought Dr. King’s life and ideals to thousands of school children for more than 25 years. Her signature history book is Dayton’s African American Heritage. ~~~~~ The annual Santa Pub Crawl will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, at various Oregon Arts District taverns. This is a VERY FUN event that benefits Toys for Tots. It is Quite the Spectacle as well. 400 Santas walking down 5th Street in the Oregon district is a sight to see! The U.S. Marines come and collect all the toys that people bring Cost of admission is a $10 unwrapped toy (or a $10 monetary donation). The toys/money can be dropped off at the Dublin Pub or the Trolley Stop at the start of the pub crawl. Those in holiday costumes won’t pay a cover at any of the taverns. A costume contest also will be held, and winners will be announced at Blind Bob’s. The schedule is: Dublin Pub: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Trolley Stop: 7 to 8 p.m. Tumbleweed: 8 to 9 p.m. Blind Bob’s: 9 to 10 p.m. Oregon Express: 10-11 p.m. Ned Pepper’s: 11 p.m. to midnight Pulse: midnight to closing ~~~~~ The Lincoln Society of Dayton invites you to a festive White House Christmas Tea on Sunday afternoon, December 9 at 2:00. The tea is open to the public without charge and will be hosted by Mary Todd Lincoln and Barbara Lynch. This will be the final program held at Patterson Homestead, 1815 Brown Street, since the LSoD is moving to the Kettering Family Center at Carillon Park. Programs will continue to be free, at 2:00 on the First Sunday of each month and now will be co-sponsored with Dayton History. Mrs.Lynch will share the history of tea and how it often made history! This is not a stuffy ladies tea but a fun time for everyone…tea drinker or not! GREAT PERFORMANCES A Tuna Christmas through Dec 9, 2012. It’s Christmas time and local radio personalities Thurston Wheelis and Arles Struvie tell us all about the annual Christmas lawn display contest that Viola Carp keeps winning (14 times), the troubled local production of A Christmas Carol and along the way introduce us to a host of colorful characters, each one funnier than the last, in this little mythical Texas town. ~~~~~ Consider yourself at home with this beloved Tony Award-winning musical based on Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist. Orphaned at birth, sold from a workhouse and led into an unseemly career as a pickpocket, young Oliver’s fate may yet lie in a simple turn of fate. The Human Race takes the tale of the boy who dared to ask for more and reimagines it for the perfect intimacy of The Loft Theatre. Filled with timeless songs, delightful dancing and memorable characters, it’s a wonderful holiday treat for the family. ~~~~~ Mark Wood, an original member of the multiplatinum selling Trans-Siberian Orchestra is bringing his groundbreaking music education program Electrify Your Strings! to The Northmont Orchestra students in Clayton, Ohio. The Fire’n Ice 2011-2012 “Turbow Tour” will dazzle the audience with a full – fledged rock concert on December 5th at 7:30pm in the Northmont High School Auditorium. Northmont orchestra students will perform in a live concert alongside Mark Wood. The music will be a mix of his original material, as well as his exciting arrangements of music by Led Zeppelin, Journey, The Beatles, and more. The show is open to the public with all profits going to the schools music programs. ~~~~~ On Friday, December 7, and Saturday, December 8, at 8 p.m. Patrick Reynolds, the DPO, top entertainers, choirs, and choruses from the region will gather together to celebrate the Christmas holidays. Hometown Holiday features guest artists the Carillon Brass, the Kettering Children’s Choir, Harps of Grace, soprano Andrea Chenoweth-Wells, the Sinclair Community College Concert Handbell Choir and the Holiday Pops Community Choir. ~~~~~ On Sunday, December 9 at 6:30 pm in Westminster Presbyterian Church, 125 North Wilkinson Street, Dayton, Music Director Neal Gittleman, the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra Chamber Choir, Hank Dahlman Director, will present Handel’s Messiah. The greatest oratorio of all time was written in England by a German-born composer for a German-born monarch and debuted in Dublin, Ireland! Handel’s Messiah, based on the birth, passion, and resurrection of Christ, eventually became one of the best-known and most frequently performed choral works in Western music. Now, for many, the holiday just doesn’t seem complete without hearing this uplifting sacred work in the deep, rich surroundings of a traditional cathedral. INTERESTING SHOPPING Dayton Visual Arts Center (DVAC), 118 N. Jefferson Street. This annual exhibition and sale of giftable art includes work created by more than 75 area artists in a wide variety of media, including paintings, prints, fiber art, ceramics, glass sculpture, woodwoork, ornaments, cards and more. ~~~~~ Art Box Holiday Gift Gallery, CADC, 45 S. St. Clair St.; Wed.-Fri., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. This holiday gift gallery features artwork perfect for gift-giving, including pottery, jewelry, wood-turned bowls and clocks, photography, small paintings, and small-scale sculptures. Happy Hour @ the GALLERY every Wednesday till Dec. 19th 5-7pm ~~~~~ The Little Exchange Holiday Hours Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday 10:00 – 5:00. Thursday, 10:00 – 7:00 Personalized baby blankets! ~~~~~ The Fine Art Center at Town & Country 300 E Stroop Rd. Kettering, OH 45429 ~~~~~ Handmade Holiday Dayton (700 E. Fourth St.) The Yellow Cab Building will host this annual holiday event, which features more than 30 local artisans selling gift items, ranging from soaps to hand-crafted jewelry. Prizes from local merchants will be raffled and shoppers will receive a swag bag with any purchase. Handmade Holiday Dayton is a free event held from 5 to 10 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 7, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8. ~~~~~ Kettering Centerville Christmas Kiwanis tree sale is on right now. The money is used to provide scholarships for local graduating high school students. It is located on Rt 725 and Paragon Rd in Centerville next to the Oak Creek South Park. They offer fresh cut trees, wreaths, table-tops and roping. “NEWS” IN OUR AREA University of Dayton Libraries, At the Manger Open House. At the Manger exhibits are on display now through Sunday, Jan. 27, 2013. ~~~~~ Dayton Visual Arts Center (DVAC) proudly presents a juried members’ exhibition of monumental scale at the Dayton Convention Center. As 2013 is the 100th anniversary of the flood that famously wreaked havoc on downtown Dayton, DVAC thought that its artists would find the theme, “Disaster” ripe for interpretation. Exhibition can be viewed at the Dayton Convention Center: Monday through Sunday, 7:00 a.m.-10:30 p.m. ~~~~~ Now to Jan. 1. Wintergarden Wonderland Windows Dayton Holiday Festival; 9am – 7pm. Come see the magical Rike’s department store holiday window displays! Experience the wonder of the animated elves, woodland animals, violinists and skaters right at the corner of Second and Main streets in downtown Dayton, where these displays delighted people beginning more than 70 years ago. ~~~~~ Nov. 24-Dec. 8 . It’s Instrumental PNC 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St.; 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The Dayton Philharmonic Volunteer Association is sponsoring an instrument donation drive. Bring your used musical instruments to the Market to donate them to this worthy cause. Instruments will be repaired, if needed, and used in the music education programs of the Dayton Public Schools. No registration required. 228-2088. ~~~~~ Hannah’s Treasure Chest, 124 Westpark Rd, Centerville, supplies clothing, toys, books and baby equipment to children in four counties of the Miami Valley. They are filling the final orders of the year before they close on Dec 7. However, they are so low on clothing that they can’t fully fill orders for kids. One day they were only able to send 4 items of clothing to a 6 year old along with toys and books – no shirts, pants, socks or jacket were available. ~~~~~ The National Aviation Heritage Area includes Montgomery, Greene, Miami, Clark, Warren, Champaign, Shelby and Auglaize counties in southwestern Ohio. The National Aviation Heritage Alliance is a not-for-profit corporation designated by Congress as the management entity of the heritage area. Its vision is to make the Dayton region the recognized global center of aviation heritage and premier destination for aviation heritage tourism, sustaining the legacy of the Wright brothers. ~~~~~ Retired drivers multiply, challenges loom Baby boomers started driving at a young age and became more mobile than any generation before or since. They practically invented the two-car family and escalated traffic congestion when women began commuting to work. Now, 8,000 of them are turning 65 every day, and those retirements could once again reshape the nation’s transportation. MESSAGE FROM MOLLY Holiday shopping can be a real stress! Why not do it online? If you have readers on your list this year, they might like some of the books listed in this holiday shopping guide. I think there is at least ONE on it that I would like everyone to buy for someone on their list! Skimbaco Lifestyle Gotta go…. Charlie, husband of an author, Campbell

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OLIVER! is a great Christmas present from your friends at The Human Race Theatre…

About ten years ago I saw my first production of OLIVER!, and it was less than mediocre.  I was not too keen on seeing The Human Race Theatre Company’s (HRTC) current production of OLIVER!, due to my initial experience with the show, but was intrigued by the director’s concept, and use of ten actors.

I have never been disappointed in a HRTC production, but I was not expecting to be absolutely blown away this evening. This production’s concept was conceived, and directed by Alan Souza, and choreographed by Spencer Liff (SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE).  I wish I could say I was speechless, but at intermission I was chattering away about the incredibly innovative, crisp, creative and exhausting staging and choreography.  Thrilling!

With so many theatre companies, you show up expecting to see the company’s typical production.  Since seeing my first HRTC production, ROMANCE, ROMANCE, twenty years ago, I’ve never been disappointed.  I always return home, excited and refreshed.

There were remarkable performances from this troupe of ten actors, and not one was lacking.  However, three performers ‘wow’d’ me this evening: music director and performer, Helen Gregory; Kettering’s own, Chris Shea; and a HRTC founder and regular, Scott Stoney.

Helen… Helen… Helen… the piano was actually blocked into the staging, and brilliantly executed!  Helen only gave up the ivories once, and that was so she could sing and dance while Scott Stoney took over (and well done, Scott!).  I have never seen acrobatics at the piano, but Helen made her multi-layered role amusing and impressive.  This performance alone was worth the entire evening for me!

Chris Shea has grown tremendously as an actor through the years, and tonight, he was hitting the mark each moment, and with each character change throughout the production.  He is a delight to watch, and I am confident he will continue to grow, even more, as an actor.  Kudos!

From Shakespeare to Schwartz, and everything in between, and beyond, Scott Stoney just made my night! In this production of OLIVER!, Scott plays Mr. Bumble and several other characters.  I’ve always loved what Scott brings to lead roles, but tonight, as Mr. Bumble, he completely won me over.  Scott was hilarious, adorable, and so much fun.  This man can do it all – lead roles and character roles and make them more 3-dimensional than anyone else I know.

One more performer needs to be mentioned… Sara Shepherd, as Nancy (and others), gave a moving, gut-wrenching delivery of “As Long As He Needs Me.”  I seldom get chills, but her choices were fantastic!  I did not hear the song – I felt it!  Superb! Superb!

The musical numbers were unbelievably staged, and I am still rocking from the thrill of seeing them tonight.  Within ten minutes, I had forgotten I was not fond of the show, forgotten my headache/sinus infection, and had stopped worrying about bringing my teenage son out on a chilly night just as he is recovering from the creeping crud.

I know this is an incredibly busy time of the year, but this is one production you do not want to miss.

Thank you, Human Race Theatre Company!  This was a damned fine treat for my holiday season!

What do others think of OLIVER! at The Human Race Theatre Company?

Russell Florence’s Review in the Dayton Metro Paper

Jim Bucher’s Beat on WDTN

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Limited-edition Lincoln ornaments – on sale now!

The 2013 Ornament, the third in the Sesquicentennial Series, commemorates Lincoln’s Presidential Guard at the Soldiers’ Home. To purchase this one-of-a-kind item, visit us at President Lincoln’s Cottage or click here to shop online. This Season, the Cottage is honoring our 16th President by offering 16% off all online store merchandise. Please enter the following code to enjoy this limited time offer: EP150TH. Deal expires on December 16th, 2012. Deal only applies to online Museum Store merchandise and cannot be combined with any other offers, memberships, or ticket sales. Discounted shipping is now available through the United State Postal Service – call 202-829-0436 for more details. Buy All Three! Purchase the set of three Civil War Sesquicentennial Ornaments, and remember to check out our fair trade ornaments! CLICK HERE to purchase. President Lincoln’s Cottage Upshur Street at Rock Creek Church Road, NW Washington, DC 20011 www.lincolncottage.org

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Sponsor A Sibling Group this Holiday Season

Help a sibling group find their forever home by sponsoring a Sibling Group! Tis’ the holiday season! For many children, this time of year is the season to create wish lists for Santa and go holiday shopping. Gathering allowance for the perfect gift for an older brother or sister or taking a younger sibling shopping seem simple but for a foster child, it could be an unforgettable memory. Imagine the sadness of being separated from your siblings during this holiday season. It’s crucial that siblings stay together especially at this time of year. Let’s prevent siblings from splitting up so that this holiday season can be all about these children making the simple, yet unforgettable memories! One of the biggest struggles about being in foster care is being separated from your siblings, especially around the holiday season. We feel a strong need for the siblings to stay together when finding their forever family. A necessity in order to live a healthy lifestyle while in foster care and after finding a forever family is maintaining as many biological relationships as possible. It is crucial that siblings do not get split up! By sponsoring a sibling group, you are helping us exhaust all of our efforts in finding these kids forever families. You are also ensuring that these sibling groups do not get split up. Sponsoring a sibling group would help ensure that more siblings find forever families together, allowing them to enjoy the holidays and creating new memories with their brothers and sisters. Click here to become a sponsor! Click one of the links below to become a sponsor for one of A Family For Every Child’s programs: Sponsor the Life Skills Program for $15 a month Sponsor a Mentor Match for $20 a month Sponsor the Family Finding Program for $20 a month Sponsor a Child for $20 a month Sponsor a Sibling Group for $30 a month Sponsor a family through their adoption process for $30 a month Questions? Please contact: Katie Nelson and Christina Parra Sponsorship Coordinators A Family For Every Child katie.nelson@afamilyforeverychild.org christina.parra@afamilyforeverychild.org 541-343-2856

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Kettering Tree Lighting

This has been my lucky week of tripping on to events at the last minute, and making it in time!  Last night we visited Dayton’s Calvary Cemetery for the second annual “Angel Night” to glimpse all the beautifully sculpted angels illuminated.  Tonight, someone posted something on Facebook about the Kettering Tree Lighting at Lincoln Park, a block away from our home.  I discovered we had 15 minutes to get there – which was easy to do.

We ran into several student families, and Pati and Ema Rogers.

It was such a nice event!  Tons and tons of people strolling through the park to look at the lights strung on trees, poles, etc., by our Kettering Parks & Recreation workers!  Beautiful job!

Another fun evening for the Haasienda History Book!

Uncle Raymond Daugherty…

At 48 years, I feel terribly blessed to have known my great-great uncle, Raymond Daugherty, 91, for this many years.  Many friends, my age, do not have uncles and aunts living.  As of this writing, I still have one great-great uncle, and two great-great aunts, surviving, and eight great uncles and aunts living.

This, indeed, is a blessing!

Uncle Raymond was a younger brother to my great-grandmother, Thelma Daugherty Barmes, who was the mother of my maternal grandfather, Leroy Barmes.  Uncle Raymond was born July 25, 1921, only a few months before my grandfather.

Betty & Donna

The uncle and nephew grew up together, and during the difficult times of The Great Depression, my great-grandmother would take her children back to her parents’ farm.  It was on the Daugherty farm near Frankton, Indiana, that my grandfather and his uncle grew up, and spent many summers together.  As they neared their late teens, the two young men met two best friends, Betty Church and Donna Clary, who lived in Boone Township, not too far from Summitville, Indiana.  Eventually, Raymond and Betty were engaged, as were Leroy and Donna.

Their families remained close through the years.  Uncle Raymond and Aunt Betty were two of the first visitors when my mother was born, and in 1964, along with their son, Steve, were the first to visit me.  When I adopted my first son, we drove to Houston, Texas, where Uncle Raymond and Aunt Betty were living with their son, Steve, so they would be the first to meet my new son.  Raymond and Betty were the first to greet three generations of our family.

My mother often babysat for Raymond and Betty’s only son, Steve.  Steve went on to Ball State University, majoring in telecommunications with David Letterman and Joyce DeWitt, with whom he was engaged for a short time.  Steve’s career was colorful, and exciting.

January, 2010, Steve passed away following a hideous battle with pancreatic cancer.  I’ve terribly missed his emails, his jokes, his telephone calls with the deeply, and dramatically announced, “Cousin Darin!”  I so miss hearing about all the colorful celebrities and events from Steve’s life.

December 2011, Aunt Betty passed away just before Christmas.  Uncle Raymond, lost in the shadows of dementia, was moved back to a facility in Alexandria, Indiana, where his younger brother and sister-in-law, Dick & Anita, could watch after him.

Today, one of the last folks from my grandparents’ youth has left us.  Though it is a sad morning to see this chapter in my family’s history close, I feel greatly blessed for having Uncle Raymond, Aunt Betty, and Steve in my life.  They were an incredible trio.

May choirs of angels sing thee to thy rest, Uncle Raymond… please give Aunt Betty, Steve, Grandma Donna, and Grandpa Leroy a hug from me…

Betty & Raymond 1940

Betty, Darin, Raymond 1983

Betty & Donna

Steve Daugherty

“Angel Night” at Calvary Cemetery

Dayton History at Carillon Park hosted its second annual “Angel Night” at Calvary Cemetery of Dayton.  Calvary Cemetery is located directly South of Carillon Park on one of the most imposing hills in the Miami Valley.  At the top, you can see all around the Miami Valley, and tonight, it was even more beautiful with all the lights of the surrounding valley.

Quintin and I hurried to the cemetery, meeting up with family friends, and my Ball State music pals, Dave & Linda Samworth Lewis, and their teenage son, Chet.  It was a fun night, and a great tour of all the beautifully carved, and illuminated angels throughout the cemetery.  I learned just enough tonight to want to learn more about Calvary Cemetery that is steeped in rich history.

The Dayton Holiday Festival Continues All December Long!

Lot’s of neat things happening in downtown Dayton this holiday season….

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To contact us, reply to this message or call (937) 224-1518.
Our office is located at 10 W. Second Street, Suite 611, Dayton, Ohio 45402.

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Carriage Rides, Angels, Holiday Music, Hot Chocolate & More!

Illuminated Angels | Holiday Music Cookie Decorating | Carriage Rides Local Artisans | Hot Chocolate & More! Park and shop at Carillon Historical Park, take the shuttle to Calvary Cemetery and enjoy holiday music, illuminated angel statues, cookie decorating, & much more! At Carillon Historical Park: Museum Store Open House featuring local artisans $1 carousel rides Tour the Heritage Center of Dayton Manufacturing and Entrepreneurship At Calvary Cemetery: Tour the illuminated angel statues Horse and carriage rides Cookie decorating Food and beverages available ADMISSION: FREE to the public! PARKING: $5.00 per car at Carillon Park (parking is not available at Calvary Cemetery) Carillon Historical Park’s Museum Store Open House featuring these local artisans: Curt Dalton – Local author of many books on Dayton History Esther Price – Sampling hot chocolate Shelly Burden – Local pottery maker Kathy Gross – Pen and ink artist Nathan Musser – Local painter Corrine Whitesell – Historical weaver Rita Hughes – Painter with her series of note cards with angels Lori Young – Fashion jewelry designer who uses recycled pop tops Carolyn Wimer – Hand hooked rugs & wool purses Teresa Wimer – Hand-stamped cards Dottie Cummings – Oriental rug pillows A Morning with Santa December 15, 2012 at Carillon Park 9:00am Seating or 10:00am Seating Exclusive Members Only Event! $12 per person (Kids under 2 are FREE!) One FREE Carousel Ride Crafts Bring your Camera for Pictures with Santa Listen to Holiday Music Warm Breakfast Buffet at Culp’s Café To make reservations: Email cshumaker@daytonhistory.org Call (937) 293-2841 ext. 106 Culp’s Café Open for breakfast & Lunch New Hours Open Saturday, Sunday, and Monday breakfast & lunch 7:30am – 3:00pm Open Tuesday – Friday lunch 11:00am – 3:00pm 937.299.2277 Follow us Keep up to date with everything that is happening at Dayton History by following us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Carillon Historical Park | 1000 Carillon Blvd. | Dayton, OH 45409 | 937-293-2841 | www.daytonhistory.org

Hoosierland… all in one day

Bright and early, Saturday morning, Quintin, Flyer and I were in the car heading toward Fowler, Indiana to celebrate Freddie’s, my nephew/godson, 5th birthday.  We arrived at 11:00am, and enjoyed some chat time with the family before the other guests began arriving.  Parker, 7, and Freddie had just moved their bedroom from downstairs to upstairs, and they were eager to show it off.  Carolyne is now in the boys’ old room, ready to make way for the new arrival this January.

We concluded our Indiana visit with a stop at Shapiro’s Deli for supper, and a stroll around downtown Indy.  Flyer was in heaven getting to walk with us.  It was like old times with her.

A long day, but a fun one!

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Celebrating Adoption, 2012

When you look through the slideshow, you will see the faces of adoption:

The Children…

The Parents…

and the Angels that make adoption happen.

Another wonderful party hosted by the angels of ACTION Adoption Services.

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Thanksgiving with the Pollock Family

Today, Quintin and I spent our Thanksgiving with Brian & Joanie Pollock, their two college sons, Tyler, a senior at Butler University, and Zach, my former student, now a freshman at Miami University.  Joanie’s parents, Dick & Susan, were with us from Springfield, Illinois.

Before dinner, I learned to play Rummy and Nertz.  I never play cards, but I have to admit – I was getting addicted to Nertz!  Such fun!

Brian prepared the best meal, and we all sat down to dinner with various hats.  Lots of great food, and tons of laughter.

Post-dinner was my first time to watch A CHRISTMAS STORY.  Hilarious!

While Joanie and Sue planned their Black Friday shopping strategy, the rest of us enjoyed pumpkin pie and the traditional pink stuff dessert (pineapple, cherry pie filling, Cool Whip, evaporated milk all mixed together).

Before leaving all the men took on the two women in a game called, Battle of the Sexes!  Even more fun!

This was just a great day, and we had the best time!

Thank you, so much, Brian, Joanie, Tyler, Zach, Sue & Dick!

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Our pets…

A Tribute To Our Wonderful Furry Family Members

A lazy Sunday filled with Trekkie Monster, Pocahontas, Andy Griffith and rest…

Last night I was wide awake, energized by having seen Centerville High School’s production, AVENUE Q (see previous post).  By 2:00am, I was finally feeling sleep come over me, and at some point, I was out.  At 3:15am, Navi barked when she heard Quintin come downstairs to use the bathroom.  The last numbers I remember seeing on the clock were 403 (4:03am).

At 8:15am, I finally gave in to the siege of the three dogs surrounding me with their anxious stare-down.  Chief was on my pillow with his nose pressed against mine; Navi was laying on top of Chief smacking me with her tail; and Flyer remained on the floor, staring up at me, and sighing about 2-3 times each minute.

It was a lazy morning of watching the news programs, and enjoyed a wonderful documentary, NOVA: Pocahontas Revealed.  It had more to do with the Jamestown Rediscovery and the incredible archaeological work discovering new things about Jamestown life in 1607, and the nearby Indian capitol governed by Powhatan.  An excellent Netflix documentary.

POCAHONTAS REVEALED – trailer

Quintin and I gathered up all the pots that once held beautiful Impatiens throughout the summer, and early fall, and brought them to the back deck.  In a short while we will head out for groceries, returning in time for me to teach a few lessons for students prepping for jazz band auditions this week at Centerville High School.  I suspect we will settle in for a Netflix movie this evening after supper.

But for right now, I am eating lunch and half-watching THE ANDY GRIFFITH SHOW.

Quintin’s newest voice is not Asian, but rather, Trekkie Monster from AVENUE Q.  It is quite hilarious to hear him speaking in the Oscar The Grouch-esque voice, as heard in this video another production:  Trekkie Monster singing “Monster School” – AVENUE Q.

I am all prepared for a short week of teaching, and time spent with family and friends!

Photos of my brother and his family…

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Preserve the Legacy of Abraham Lincoln

Click Here to Send Your Message to Congress! Dear Friend of the National Parks, As we commemorate the 149th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln’s historic Gettysburg Address, please ask Congress to help the National Park Service fully tell his story by protecting the Lincoln Train Station in Gettysburg. President Lincoln arrived at this train station–now beautifully restored–on November 18, 1863, the night before delivering the Gettysburg Address. The Borough of Gettysburg and Gettysburg Foundation are set to donate the Lincoln Train Station to the National Park Service to help tell the story of Lincoln at Gettysburg and to serve as a downtown national park visitor center. To make this happen, we need Congress to pass legislation adding the train station to the boundary of Gettysburg National Military Park. Take Action: Send your comments to your senators and representative urging them to protect the legacy of Abraham Lincoln by passing S. 1897 and H.R. 1335, legislation that would permit the donation of the Lincoln Train Station to Gettysburg National Military Park! Thank you for doing your part to honor President Lincoln by protecting the Lincoln Train Station in downtown Gettysburg. Future generations will appreciate your action. Sincerely, Nicholas Lund Civil War Associate Share this on Facebook Share this on Twitter

This message was sent to dljh by the National Parks Conservation Association. Click here to change your email preferences. E-mail us at TakeAction, write to us at 777 6th Street, NW, Suite 700, Washington, DC 20001, or call us at 800.NAT.PARK (800.628.7275). Can’t see this message? View it on the NPCA Website.

NPCA | 777 6th Street, NW | Suite 700 | Washington, DC 20001 | 800.NAT.PARK | npca

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Oscar Hammerstein II – On Creativity

Did you know?  Even Oscar Hammerstein II struggled with the creative process.

In 1946 he told The New York Times, “Writing comes darned hard to me. I do most of it on our farm in Doylestown. There I have a room with one of those tall old-fashioned desks you used to see in shipping offices. It takes me a long time to get started, and even then the words come slowly. I keep walking up and down the room and when I get what I want I go over to the desk and write in longhand with a soft pencil. I often wonder how many miles an act I walk.”

Frosty mornings…

My favorite time of the morning is when the sun comes peeping up over the rooftops across Shroyer Road, showering my side of the street with little glimmers of morning light.  From my bedroom/sitting room window, I can see the the natural spotlight illuminate the beautiful stage that, from my study or bedroom, will be a part of my surroundings throughout the day.

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Angel Night at Calvary Cemetery

This looks great!

**Angel Night is Back at Calvary Cemetery, Even Bigger and Better!**

Last year’s Evening of Song and Celebration is back by popular demand, this time in partnership with Carillon Park, and bigger and better than ever!

Thursday, November 29 from 5:30 to 9:00 PM, you’ll have the opportunity to view 15 illuminated Victorian era angels on a tour by horse drawn carriages and Wright Flyer Trolleys.

Listen to holiday music from local groups including the CJ High School Choir and Glee Club, Dr. Ritter Werner and others in historic St Henry’s Memorial Chapel.

Frost Christmas cookies, enjoy hot chocolate and other goodies, and bask in the atmosphere of the beautifully decorated
cemetery and Carillon Park.

Definitely family friendly!

Carillon Park will feature local artists with plenty of hand crafted gifts to buy, as well as the Museum Shop full of Dayton History books, toys, games, tee shirts and more.

The event is free to the public, parking, which is exclusively at the Carillon this year, is $5 per car.

For more information, call Rick Meade at 293-1221.

Beavercreek’s CABARET

Last night, Quintin and I had front row seats for Beavercreek High School’s CABARET, a delightful production featuring all the high school choirs, the two middle school show choirs, and the high school’s show choir, Friends.

Great performance, and I am so proud of all my students.  It was great to see so many former students and their parents, last night!

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Four hours of November sunshine…

This morning, Quintin and I headed Southeast of Dayton to Caesar’s Creek where we first stopped at Miami Cemetery.  Beautiful.

We traipsed on over to Caesar’s Creek State Park.  I had only been to the beach area, and discovered some other areas today that were gorgeous.  It was also my first time to Caesar’s Creek Pioneer Village – it was OK.

After grabbing some pulled pork sandwiches at this little mini-mart between the pioneer village and the dam, we headed into Waynesville to walk around and take more photos.

It was such a great day of laughter, time together, and beautiful weather in November!

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10 Metabolism Boosters

Some great suggestions that I have used frequently…

Your WebMD Health Newsletter

Featured: Pain Relief: What Works?

Women’s Health Friday, November 09, 2012 10 Metabolism Boosters If your old weight-loss tricks aren’t working anymore, your metabolism may be lagging. Tips to jump-start it. View Slideshow › • ‘How I Lost 100 Pounds’’ • Ideal Weight or Happy Weight? • Why BMI Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story Featured Pain Relief: What Works? These tried-and-true remedies can help headaches, back pain, and more. Watch Video › How to Get Perfect Brows Whether you wax or pluck, here’s how to get the ideal shape for your face. View Slideshow › 9 Tips for Flatter Abs Sure, crunches help. But there are a lot of other moves that tighten your tummy. View Slideshow › Tubal Side Effects? She’s having some odd symptoms. Could they be from her tubal ligation? Join Conversation › Top Picks • What to Do When You Just Can’t Go • Secrets of a Stunning Smile • Get the Dirt on Germs in Your Mouth • Allergies Flaring at Work? Here’s Help Tools & Resources • Top Diet Tips • Sex Fact & Fiction • Workouts A to Z • Pregnancy Guide ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT From Our Sponsors • Vaccinations Are Important for All Ages. Learn Why • Not Ready for More Kids? Learn About a Flexible Birth Control Option From the WebMD Network • Sexual Assault • Tips for a Better Night’s Sleep • Quiz: What Causes Multiple Sclerosis? Find more of WebMD: About This Email: You are signed up for this WebMD email as dljh@sbcglobal.net. Don’t miss a single email from WebMD — add health to your Address Book Manage My WebMD Mail | Unsubscribe WebMD Privacy Policy WebMD Office of Privacy | 1201 Peachtree Street, NE | 400 Colony Square, Suite 2100 | Atlanta, GA 30361 © 2012 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

Grandpa Leroy – November 8th, 1921

Today would have been the 91st birthday of my grandfather, Leroy ‘Red’ Barmes.

He was the third generation of our Bavarian family born in the United States, and the eldest child born to Virgil Brewer Barmes, and Thelma Estelle Daugherty Barmes, in Elwood, Indiana.  Leroy’s younger siblings: Evelyn, Norma and Danny.

In 1943, Leroy married Donna Mae Clary, and they had three children: Diana, Ron, and Tom.

Grandpa died June 3, 2004.

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Fairmont’s Fall Band Concert

Personally, speaking, I think this was one of the best fall band concerts at Fairmont High School – and they always give great concerts.  All the concert bands – AM Concert Band, PM Concert Band, Symphony Band and Wind Ensemble were outstanding with each of their two pieces presented.  The musical line-up was entertaining, and a nice mix.

The tradition that caps off the concert is the marching band’s entrance into Trent Arena (however, they did not march in this year) to perform some of pre-game, and then, the last run through of their fall competition show.  I always find this a bit sad because this moment truly is the end of the season, and one of the first marked beginnings of the end for the seniors.

After the concert, the Haas family hurried to Friendly’s for our traditional post-concert ice cream (which has become our post-concert supper).  Joining us this year: The Rogers Family – Pati, Mike, Nick, Ema; The Blunt Family – Steve, Dee, Casey, Dawson, Grandma Delores; and The Halls – Ron, Stephanie, Jillian, and Grandma Judy.  Lot’s of fun, and laughter.

Here’s to the end of a great marching band season!

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News from A Family for Every Child: Sibling Separation

Interesting read.

Separation of Siblings The separating of siblings in foster care is a difficult subject to undertake. The bond between brother and sister can be very strong and can be the only source of comfort in the children’s lives. The separation of siblings at a young age is a jolting experience, especially if they went through a traumatic experience together and do not want to leave each other. There are some reasons for wanting or needing to separate the siblings, such as acts of conflict or special needs, but research has shown that there can be several negative impacts that should be considered before making this decision. A close family unit is important when raising any child, but if one sibling is separated from the other they can learn to not put a high value on family relationships in the future. The same can be said for the child’s attitude towards relationships with peers and friends in the future. If they learn at a young age to not trust people then they will not cultivate and develop relationships later on in life. There is a greater risk of emotional disturbance and school problems as a result of the disconnection. This disconnection from a sibling can leave both children feeling lost and untrusting of authority and their foster parents. Trust is key in order for any relationship to be healthy and by removing a sibling; the foster parents only reinforce the “caregiver” feeling that exists between siblings. After that feeling is lost then there is nothing stopping them from believing that they can be removed at any time. The separation leaves the lasting impression on children to walk away from problems rather than stand up and face them. These are not traits that we want to cultivate in the future, so why would we ingrain them in our generations to come? If you would like to view more about this topic just search for “INFORMATION PACKET: Siblings in Foster Care”. Suggested Reading material about siblings Sibling Bonds and Separations Fostering Families Today Child Welfare Snippets of Information One of the most critical contributions that child welfare professionals can provide for children who enter care is to preserve their connections with their brothers and sisters. Children who come into foster care or are adopted often are separated from existing or future siblings. Approximately 70 percent of children in foster care in the United States have another sibling also in care (Shlonsky, Elkins, Bellamy, & Ashare, 2005). For a variety of reasons, many of these sibling groups are not placed together. Child Welfare Information Gateway Research has demonstrated that warmth in sibling relationships is associated with less loneliness, fewer behavior problems, and higher self-worth (Stocker, 1994). Marjut Kosonen (1996) studied the emotional support and help that siblings provide and found that when they needed help, children would first seek out their mothers, but then turn to older siblings for support, even before they would go to their fathers. She also found that for isolated children (as is the case for many children placed into foster care), sibling support is especially crucial. For these children, an older sibling was often their only perceived source of help. Child Welfare Information Gateway Just as best practice makes clear that siblings should be placed together in foster care whenever possible, it also directs that when siblings cannot be placed together, their relationships should be sustained through regular visiting. Despite this tenet of best practice, children and youth often report that visits with their brothers and sisters are few and far between. Some report that they receive few supports to make these visits a reality – their caseworkers do not ensure that visits are coordinated or that transportation is arranged. About Us A Family For Every Child, a nonprofit organization, began with Christy Obie-Barrett and dozens of dedicated, passionate volunteers. Founded in 2006, AFFEC developed into an organization focused on finding permanent and loving adoptive homes for Oregon’s waiting children. We intend to develop programs that assist special-needs/challenging-to-place foster children in finding their own Forever Families A Family For Every Child 1675 W 11th Avenue Eugene, OR 97401 1-877-343-2856

nora.sharp | Update Profile/Email Address | Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe™ | Privacy Policy. A Family For Every Child | 880 Beltline Rd. | Springfield | OR | 97477

Support Jeff Rezabek for Montgomery County Juvenile Court Judge — Read Why

LINK

Leadership. Integrity. Nobleness. Knowledge. These are all necessary ingredients to the successful guidance of the children and families of Montgomery County. As Election Day draws near, voters will have the unique opportunity to affect much-needed change to the antiquated practices of the Montgomery County Juvenile Court by electing Jeff Rezabek to the bench. As voters, many people may not realize that the juvenile court system is responsible for so many more issues beyond delinquent minors. With over 14 years of experience in juvenile court, Jeff Rezabek has been personally appointed by the Montgomery County Juvenile Court Judges to handle cases involving murder and other violent crimes, shaken baby deaths, abused and neglected children, emotional visitation and custody matters, complicated child support cases, delicate educational cases involving children with special needs, and cases involving drug-dependent children and parents. After only practicing for a few short years, Jeff Rezabek stepped forward and received an approved home study of his own residence in order to provide shelter for an at-risk child. He has won awards and has been recognized repeatedly as an outstanding practitioner in Montgomery County Juvenile Court. Jeff Rezabek’s guidance and advice is sought out by many, including numerous fellow attorneys and professionals actively involved with local families. Through his direct contact with the families of Montgomery County, Jeff Rezabek has gained unparalleled experience and perspective as well as a heightened appreciation for the impact that the actions of juvenile court have on today’s youth and families. Help Montgomery County put into place that final LINK between the court system and our children by electing Jeff Rezabek as your next Montgomery County Juvenile Court Judge.

Please forward this on to friends, family and colleagues!

Every Vote Counts

Paid for by Citizens for Rezabek, 111 West First Street, Suite 519 – Dayton, Ohio 45402 Gloria Marano – Treasurer

Missouri Voter’s Guide

My friend, Jeffrey Carter of St. Louis, Missouri, posted this on his own blog – which is one of my favorite reads each day. This was a bit aggravating to read!

New post on and sure stars shining . . . Missouri Voter’s Guide by Jeffrey Carter As I left church on Sunday, I found on my windshield a ‘Missouri Voter’s Guide’ provided by the Missouri Family Network. Now, any organization that claims the mantle ‘family’ is automatically suspect in my book, because I have found that these groups are quite often allied with a very narrow definition of ‘family’ and a very skewed and unbalanced perspective of the way the world works. These groups are quite often reactionary, not forward-thinking, and usually shrill in their approach to discourse. This seems to be true in this case as well, if the voter’s guide is any clue, even though the small print claims that this pamphlet is a ‘nonpartisan’ candidate guide. Nonpartisan, my ass. With candidate-rating topics like ‘human cloning,’ ‘public funding for abortion providers,’ ‘religious liberty,’ ‘same-sex marriage,’ and ‘homosexual special rights,’ not to mention ‘Obamacare,’ this piece is just another twisted and one-sided special-interest rag. Where in the ‘family’ piece is any mention of ‘taking care of the less fortunate,’ ‘clothing and feeding widows and orphans,’ ‘spending tax dollars on helping people rather than building missiles and practicing warfare,’ or ‘maintaining and growing our infrastructure so that all may have a chance to prosper.’ Where was any mention of a fair tax code? Of decreasing racial tension? Of justice and a voice for all, not just for the wealthy and well-connected? I’m truly disgusted . . . . And then, the back page contains a guide on how to vote for Missouri statewide ballot questions. On Amendment 3, regarding the currently widely-approved, non-partisan appointment of judges, the Missouri Family Council wishes to approve more political influence on the process rather than less. Of course they also wish to curb Obamacare, since the cost of taking care of others and guaranteeing fair and easy access for ALL to health care is simply more than the pro-family people wish to pay. And short-sightedly, this ‘family’ group is all for Big Tobacco, opposing the tax increase on cigarettes as a ‘massive’ increase, even though Missouri has the lowest cigarette tax of ANY state in the nation, and even though smoking clearly kills and tears families apart and causes people — disproportionately of the lower socio-economic classes — to spend dollars on something other than healthy and safety and food and family. Nonpartisan, my ass. I’m usually hopeful and happy on this blog, but I am fed up with the lies and distortions and blatant, godless hypocrisy of those who claim to be for ‘family’ and ‘God’ and who wrap themselves in flag and country in the name of their pious, self-serving, bitterness. When are we all going to understand that governing from the center . . . living from the center . . . is the best way? Jeffrey Carter | November 4, 2012 at 7:46 pm | Categories: Daily Life | URL: http://wp.me/p2Ily-39B Comment See all comments

Early Voting – done!

I have officially voted in my 8th general election.  My first election to vote was in 1984.

I am always excited to get my I VOTED sticker.  There is something powerful in that little badge of admission that reminds me of my responsibility as a citizen of the United States of America.  My little badge does not discriminate by defining me into a political party. It does, however, broadcast I participate in the life of my country.

I pulled into the parking garage at the Montgomery County Building on West Third at 12:55pm.  I was a bit daunted by the long line that wound around the main floor hall.  In fact, I compared it to lines at Kings Island – long, winding, and filled with a wild assortment of individuals and personalities.  Despite the line’s length, I only stood in it for less than 10 minutes.

Next to me in line, and throughout the process was a really neat couple, Don & Jane Russell, from Miami Township.  They are friends with several families I know and love, The DeVores and The Kopecs!  In fact, they attended my production of The Sound of Music in 1999!

From the first staging area of seating, we were moved downstairs in a group of approximately 150.  In the first basement, I received #371.  After a ten minute wait in the next area of seating, we were moved downstairs to the auditorium where we filled out our ballot envelope and form.

After a short wait, we were moved into a corral of folks to enter our information into the computer.  I was assisted by a lady who happened to be the manager, and she was a delight.  In fact, all of the board of election personnel were absolutely kind, and very helpful.  Their sense of humor added to the enjoyment of the process.

Within a minute, my ballot was ready and I was aimed to a series of rooms where folks were voting.  I finally found a place way in the back, and settled down at the table to fill in my ballot.

I proudly voted for neighbor, Ashley Webb, first.  Ashley is running for Montgomery County Commissioner.

I had never voted with pen and paper – always the little punch cards, or electronic voting machines.  This felt incredible to actually fill in my own ballot.

When I had completed my ballot, I walked it to the reception area to have it sealed.  It was handed back to me so I could place it in the ballot box.

That was so exciting!

As I returned to the one lower level, I saw a prospective voter holding a card with #974!  Upstairs, the lines were ever longer, and I followed the line clear out to the parking garage!  Incredible!  I suspect there were at least 1500 waiting in line on two of the three floors.

All in all, this was a positive experience, and one for which I am proud to have participated.  I got to meet some really nice folks (the Russells), and experience the voting process in a completely different manner. It felt good to see tons of people taking the time to vote. Simply impressive!

I VOTED!

The Lincolns’ wedding anniversary

One hundred seventy years ago, Mary Todd married Abraham Lincoln, November 4, 1842.

Mary Todd weds Abraham Lincoln

Thus, Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd were married at the Edwards’ home on Friday evening, November 4, 1842. About 30 relatives and friends, all hastily invited, attended the ceremony which was conducted by Reverend Dresser who was wearing canonical robes. Mary wore a lovely white muslin dress. She wore neither a veil nor flowers in her hair.

Mary’s bridesmaids were Julia M. Jayne (in 1843 she married Lyman Trumbull who later became a U.S. Senator), Anna Caesaria Rodney, and Miss Elizabeth Todd. Abraham’s best man was James Harvey Matheny, 24, who was a close friend and worked at the circuit court office in Springfield. Matheny was asked by Lincoln to be best man on the day of the wedding!

Reverend Dresser used “The Form of Solemnization of Matrimony” from a book entitled The Book of Common Prayer According to the Use of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States(Philadelphia, Carey & Hart, 1836). Standing behind Abraham during the ceremony was heavyset Judge Thomas C. Browne of the Illinois Supreme Court. Browne was a blunt man not accustomed to weddings. As Abraham was putting the wedding ring on Mary’s hand and repeating the words, “With this ring I thee endow with all my goods, chattels, lands, and tenements,” Browne impatiently blurted out, “God Almighty, Lincoln, the statute fixes all that.” After a brief delay following Browne’s interruption, the ceremony was completed as rain poured outside. Judge Browne was once impeached for feeblemindedness after a hearing in the Springfield courthouse.

A week after the marriage, on November 11, 1842, Abraham wrote a letter to a friend, Samuel D. Marshall. Most of the letter dealt with legal matters, but Abraham closed the letter with the following sentence: “Nothing new here, except my marrying, which to me, is a matter of profound wonder.”

The Day Miss Todd became Mrs. Lincoln

…Love Is Eternal…

The night of their marriage, Abraham Lincoln slipped on to Mary Todd’s finger an Etruscan gold wedding band.  Inside the ring, the words, Love is eternal, were engraved.

When historians refer to the wedding ring that Abraham Lincoln gave to Mary on November 4, 1842, they usually claim that the inscription read “Love is eternal.”  However, according to the Chicago Tribune edition of July 18, 1882, there were more than three words engraved.

Prior to her death, Mary removed her wedding ring from her finger.  On July 16, 1882, in her sister Elizabeth Edwards’ house, the same house where she had married Abraham Lincoln forty years before, she passed away.  The following day, some of Elizabeth’s friends found the ring and discovered that the inscription read, “A.L. to Mary, Nov. 4, 1842. Love is Eternal.”  The ring was subsequently placed on Mary’s finger, where it had been for forty years, and was buried with her remains in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Springfield, Illinois.

Flyer’s Gotcha Day

Happy GOTCHA Day to Flyer!

I went to a farm just South of Xenia, Ohio, and watched four adorable 10 week old puppies scamper about the back. I noticed the black and white runt was the leader for the larger three who were brown and white.

The daddy, Caesar, was a black and white Springer Spaniel, and the mommy, Portia, was a black lab and husky – looked exactly like a slender black lab but had bright blue eyes.

The mother tried to kill the runt by hiding her in the foot rest of a recliner in the woodshed, but the young girls at the farm would rescue her. The family kept the runt alive, and she took over the lead of her 8 siblings (one had died at birth).

Wilbur Wright with Flyer, 1908

I paid $25 – one of the most inexpensive, best $25 I’ve ever paid.

We got into the car, and the puppy sat down and looked around. As I drove away she looked bored, already. She was too small to look out the windows, so she walked over to me, laid down, and laid her head on my thigh.

I decided she would be named, Flyer, in honor of the Wright Brothers. En route to Centerville, we stopped at Woodland Cemetery. Flyer hopped out of the car and hopped among the tomb stones. She stopped at the Wright family estate, sniffed, walked over to Wilbur’s stone, and laid down.

It was not until three years later I learned Wilbur Wright, while demonstrating his flying machine in France, 1908, acquired a dog which he named, Flyer! Wilbur’s Flyer is commemorated on the nifty carousel at Dayton History at Carillon Park.

Flyer knows her commands in English, German, snapping fingers, and when she could see, sign language.

August 2010, Flyer suffered from acute pancreatitis, and nearly died.  She rallied, and resumed good health, but within a few months, she began losing her sight.  Flyer’s blindness does not prevent her from moving around with ease, nor having a great time with the family.

She’s been a great pal for eleven years.

At Wilbur Wright’s grave through the years…

2002

 

 

 

2012

 

 

 

 

Wilbur Wright’s Flyer & the Carillon Park carousel’s Flyer…

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Fairmont Marching Band’s final contest of 2012

Tonight, Fairmont’s Marching Firebirds took the performance field for the final time this season.  We placed fourth in a line-up of excellent bands.

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Watch the photos in the video:

The Marching Firebirds Final Competition, 2012

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