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WEDDING WALK TO KICK OF FIRST FRIDAYS

Join friends, family or co-workers to experience the wonderfully festive atmosphere of ‘First Fridays’ in downtown Greenville. On the first Friday of each month from February through December, downtown Greenville comes alive from 6-9 pm with businesses staying open while promoting a different theme each month– showcasing downtown as the place to be!

‘First Fridays’ begin on February 3 with a Wedding Walk theme. Sponsored by Romer’s Catering, St. Clair Manor and Daily Advocate, this event highlights over 20 downtown businesses that serve the wedding industry. The free event allows brides, grooms, attendants, parents or anyone wanting to explore downtown in the evening to do so at a relaxed pace and setting.  The Wedding Walk begins at Romer’s Catering where a map and passport will be provided.  The map will highlight businesses on the walk and the category they serve for weddings and newly weds.  While on the walk enjoy venue tours of Romer’s Catering & St. Clair Manor, how to get that wedding day glow, wedding wear fashion show, honeymoon destinations & the matching apparel, blissful bouquet workshop, and a chance to win a downtown gift basket valued over $500.00 by filling up the passport and dropping it off at St. Clair Manor.

Businesses participating in this ‘First Fridays‘ include AAA, The A&B Coffee & Cake Co., AMS Uniforms, The Bootery, Bread of Life, Brenda’s Beanery, Candy Bouquet, Cavalier Clothing, Commercial Printing, Country Primitives, Daily Advocate, ElementsLife, Granny’s Corner, KitchenAid Experience, The Ivy League, Janet’s Bakery, Merle Norman Cosmetics, Montage Café, Pamela’s Intimate Apparel, Readmore’s Hallmark, Romer’s Catering, St. Clair Manor, and Youniques Boutique.

‘First Fridays’ is presented by Main Street Greenville, a non-profit organization committed to stimulating and supporting revitalization efforts, historic preservation and economic growth in Historic Downtown Greenville. To learn more, visit www.DowntownGreenville.org or call 937-548-4998.

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TREE SEEDING SALES ENDS MAR. 21

Darke Soil and Water Conservation District is conducting its annual tree seedling sales until March 21, 2012. The 2-3 year seedlings are bare root stock and each tree is dipped into a preservative gel to keep the roots moist inside a plastic bag and should be planted as soon as possible to help insure survivability after they are received. Our seedlings  are packaged in groups of five. An assortment of tree packets are for sale to urban and rural landowners .The plant varieties are selected for their popularity and hardiness in the Darke County area. This is an economical way to work towards establishing or adding to your landscape, create a windbreak, and /or a wildlife area.

The pickup date is set for April 3 -5. Prices range from $5 – $22 in packets of 5-20 seedlings. Call the Darke Soil and Water Conservation District @937-548-1752 or stop by the office at 1117 S. Towne Ct., Greenville with any questions you may have and to pick up order forms.

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DP&L TIPS TO STAYING SAFE DURING WINTER STORMS

Now that the Miami Valley has had its first real blast of winter with more on the way, Dayton Power and Light (DP&L) has several winter weather precautions residents can take to be prepared.  While DP&L works all year to strengthen the electrical delivery system, Mother Nature can still cause outages.  The most damaging winter weather is freezing rain and high winds, which can take down trees and power lines.

In any emergency, safety should always be the top priority, especially when dealing with electricity.

First, assume all fallen wires are live electrical wires and stay away from them.  Second, be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide and make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector in your home.  Also, all supplemental sources of heat and portable generators must have proper ventilation.  Never place a generator in the garage or near a window where fumes could enter the home.  And finally, turn off all heat producing appliances, like the stove, if you experience an outage, in case you are not home when power is restored.

Here are some additional tips that you can use to plan ahead.

What to do before an outage
Have a storm kit with an emergency radio (battery operated or wind-up), water, non-perishable food, flashlights and a first-aid kit.  Learn what else you should include in your kit.

Have a plan for what you will do in the event of an extended power outage, especially if you or someone at your location relies on continuous operation of medical equipment. Visitwww.ready.gov, www.nod.org and www.redcross.org for assistance with emergency planning. You may also contact DP&L’s Customer Service Center at 800-433-8500. We will note the medical equipment on your account; however, DP&L cannot guarantee priority restoration, and you need to be prepared with a back-up plan should an outage occur.

Plan for your pets as well. Your cat or dog should be protected from cold weather and have access to water. For outdoor pets, add straw or bedding to provide insulation. For extreme cold, bring pets inside or into a garage or outbuilding.

What to do during an outage
Report your outage by calling 877-4-OUTAGE (877-468-8243).  You will be asked for your account number or the phone number associated with your account to report your outage.

Never touch a power line.  Report fallen wires to DP&L by calling 877-4-OUTAGE (877-468-8243). If you feel the situation is an immediate, life-threatening emergency, call 911 first.  Also, if a line is down in or near your yard, keep people and pets away from it.  Walk your dog on a leash far from the line until the power line is repaired.

Food Safety
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Safety Inspection Service, a refrigerator will keep food safely cold for about 4 hours if it is unopened. A full freezer will hold the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full and the door remains closed).  More food safety tips.

Generators
Never use a generator inside your home or in a garage or basement. Place it away from your home or building and far away from porches, windows or other areas where the exhaust could enter your home. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully along with these generator safety tips.  A new device is available that can help you moresafely connect your generator to your home.

Fireplaces
Gas and wood-burning fireplaces both emit carbon monoxide. Make sure you have a functioning carbon
monoxide detector in your home to detect the odorless gas. Use caution when burning anything in your
home.

Electronics and heat-producing appliances
When the power goes out, turn off all heat-producing appliances or disconnect them from a source of electricity to prevent fires when the power is restored. More outage tips.

For the safety of our crews and for your own safety, please stay away from utility crews and do not approach their work area or their vehicles.

What to do after an outage
Restock your storm kit.  Reset your clocks and other electronic equipment like your microwave. Check trees in your yard for any branches damaged by ice and contact a tree trimmer to avoid future problems.

About The Dayton Power and Light Company and DPL Inc.
The Dayton Power and Light Company is the principal subsidiary of DPL Inc., a regional energy company.

DPL’s other subsidiaries include DPL Energy, LLC (DPLE) and DPL Energy Resources, Inc. (DPLER), which also does business as DP&L Energy.  The Dayton Power and Light Company, a regulated electric utility, provides service to over 500,000 retail customers in West Central Ohio; DPLE engages in the operation of merchant peaking generation facilities; and DPLER is a competitive retail electric supplier.  DPL, through its subsidiaries, owns and operates approximately 3,800 megawatts of generation capacity, of which 2,800 megawatts are coal-fired units and 1,000 megawatts are natural gas and diesel peaking units.  Further information can be found at www.dplinc.com.
DPL Inc. was acquired by The AES Corporation (NYSE: AES) in 2011.  It is a Fortune 200 global power company with generation and distribution businesses. Through a diverse portfolio of thermal and renewable fuel sources, AES provides affordable and sustainable energy to 27 countries. Its workforce of approximately 28,000 people is committed to operational excellence and meeting the world’s changing power needs. AES’ 2010 revenues were $16 billion and it owns and manages $41 billion in total assets. To learn more, please visit www.aes.com.

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STATE OF THE HEART RECEIVES $5,000 FROM GREENVILLE MOOSE LODGE

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                The Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge #329 in Greenville recently presented State of the Heart Hospice with a check for $5,000.  The not for profit agency cares for patients and families in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life limiting illness.  Checks were presented to other area nonprofit entities.  Pictured here at the check presentation meeting are, left to right,  Steve Marshall, lodge representative, Ryan Gathard, director of fund development for State of the Heart, and Rodney Paul,  lodge representative. State of the Heart has offices in Greenville, Coldwater and Portland. Visit the agency web site at www.stateoftheheartcare.org .

 

 

MONTE CARLO NIGHT, FEB. 4

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PUBLIC INVITED TO LIVESTOCK MEETING ON FEB. 13

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REGISTER TODAY FOR HIPPITY HOP 5K

DOWNLOAD REGISTRATION FORM

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UC FIRE ASSOCIATION TO HOST PANCAKE BREAKFAST, JAN. 28

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DIABETIC GROUP CLASSES TO BE HELD IN FEBRUARY

           February is American Heart Month.  It is a time to help prevent heart disease by improving heart healthy habits.  One way individuals with diabetes can reduce their risk of heart disease is by managing their blood glucose levels.  This can be done in part by following a meal and exercise plan.  Other ways to reduce heart disease is by not smoking, limiting salt and alcohol intake, and knowing your cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels and how to manage them.

           Why should an individual with diabetes worry about heart disease?  As a diabetic, you are at twice the risk of having a stroke or a heart attack compared to someone who does not have diabetes.

            Education is a great way to help control your blood glucose and reduce your risk of complications.   Diabetic Group Classes are sponsored by the Wayne HealthCare Diabetes Education Program.  The classes combine visual learning with interaction between participants, to provide you with knowledge to manage your diabetes. 

          The classes help individuals understand the following: 1) diabetes disease process and treatment process, 2) the relationship between diabetes and healthy eating, 3) the value of monitoring and using the results, 4) incorporating physical activity into lifestyle, 5) how diabetic medications work, 6) ways to reduce risk of complications, 7) developing strategies for living with diabetes, and developing strategies to promote health/change behavior.  

         The class series consists of four classes.  The next series of classes will be offered on February 6, 13, 21, and 27, 2012 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Wayne HealthCare.  The cost to attend is $10 per class.  Registration is required so please contact the Certified Diabetes Educator at 937-547-5750.  

        To meet individual’s schedules, future classes will be offered in the morning, afternoon, and evening throughout the year.  Morning classes will be offered on Wednesday’s from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in March, June, and October.  Afternoon classes will be offered on Monday’s from 1:00p.m. to 3:00 p.m. in April, July, August and November.  Evening classes will be offered on Monday’s from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in May, and September.  Please call 937-547-5750, for specific dates.  

      One-to-One education is also available to help you on your road to diabetes management.

       The Wayne HealthCare Diabetes Self Management Education is an accredited program through the American Association of Diabetes Educators. 

 

 

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GLORYBOUND TO PERFORM IN PITSBURG, FEB. 5

Glorybound, of Union City & Winchester, Indiana, is a gospel quartet made up of cousins, David, Karen, Brad & Paula Key.  The quartet began their music ministry in 1980 when they performed Dallas Holm’s Easter Cantata, “His Last Days”.  From that time God has been opening doors to minister in churches, county fairs, festivals and various other school and community functions throughout Indiana & Ohio.

Glorybound uses a variety of musical styles, with close harmony, to share God’s message in song.

Glorybound began their ministry to encourage, through song and testimony, of how our heavenly Father cares about every aspect of our lives.  With the changes that life as brought in the past 30 years, the truth of this message and the fact that “Jesus is Still the Answer” only becomes stronger.

The public is invited to come and enjoy this free concert. A freewill offering will be accepted for the group.

The Pitsburg Church of the Brethren will  host ,“Glorybound”, on February 5th @ 6 PM. The church is located at the west edge of Pitsburg at 8376 Pitsburg-Laura Road.

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POST-SECONDARY ENROLLMENT EVENT TO BE HELD FEB. 7

Any student eighth and higher and their parents / guardians who may be interested in the Post-Secondary Enrollment Options Program should attend the informational meeting at 6:15 p.m. February 7 at Versailles High School in Room D147.  Returning PSEOP students should also attend the meeting for any updates for the new academic year.

This program gives full-time students enrolled in Ohio high schools (grades 9-12) the opportunity to earn high school and/or college credits.  This program does have specific guidelines that will be discussed at the meeting.

The State of Ohio requires that all students planning on participating in the 2012-2013 school year sign the “Intent to Participate Form” no later than March 30.

Questions concerning the PSEO Program should be directed to Mrs. Olwine, High School Counselor, at 937-526-4427.

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NOMINATE YOUR PICK FOR KIWANIS CITIZEN AND TEACHER OF THE YEAR

Every year Greenville Kiwanis honors two individuals for their achievements. One is the Kiwanis Citizen of the Year; the other is the Kiwanis Teacher of the Year.

This year Kiwanis would like public input on who they believe would be excellent candidates for either one of these awards.

Who, in your opinion, has done the most for the betterment of the Greenville community? Areas to consider are the individual’s involvement in community activities, charities, public service, youth mentorship and more. What has the individual done to make the community a better place in which to live?

Who, in your opinion, has done the most for the young people in the Greenville City School System? Your nomination can be a teacher at any grade level, from Kindergarten to High School.

Nominees do not have to be members of Greenville Kiwanis. Deadline for Nominations is Feb. 15.

Nominations should be sent to Kiwanis President Mike Snyder care of Mercer Savings Bank, 125 E. Main St., Greenville 45331. They can also be sent to his email (NO attachments, please) at snyder@mercersavings.com. If you need to reach him, his phone number is 937-548-9049.

LOCAL INSURANCE COMPANIES SHARE IN NATIONAL AWARD

Auto-Owners Insurance is proud to be recognized by J.D. Power and Associates as “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with the Auto Insurance Claims Experience” for the fourth year in a row. The company received this recognition in 2008, 2009, 2010 and again for 2011.

Auto-Owners Insurance, which recently has been involved in a safe driving campaign “W82TXT,” was ranked highest based on a study of 11,811 responses, ranking 26 auto insurance providers.

The company attributes its success to the contribution of independent agencies that represent Auto-Owners and assist in the claims process.

“As an insurance company, receiving this recognition is truly an honor and a reflection of the hard work and commitment of all our associates and our loyal independent agents in the claims process,” said Jeff Harrold, chairman & CEO. “To receive this recognition for the fourth year in a row is a positive reinforcement that we have brought peace of mind to those who needed us most.  After all, that is what insurance is all about.”

Auto-Owners Insurance has provided the same high standards of service for over 95 years. The company’s tradition of keeping the focus on serving the customer is how it has earned its reputation of the “No Problem”® people.  R.B. Cox Agency of Ansonia and Vannoy-Cox Agency of Greenville are local independent Auto-Owners Insurance agencies and are proud to share in this success.

Auto-Owners Insurance, a Fortune 500 company, sells its products solely through over 6,000 independent agencies.  Auto-Owners currently holds the status of being ranked the 16th largest insurer in the country. Headquartered in the Greater Lansing Area, Auto-Owners Insurance employs more than 3,800 associates. The company is comprised of five property and casualty companies and a life company, and writes business in 26 states.

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DCCA PRESENTS GUITARIST DOUG WOOD

Darke County Center for the Arts will present eclectic guitarist Doug Wood at the Inn at Versailles on Thursday, February 9 at 7 p.m.; the solo artist has released several CDs, and performs at colleges, clubs, and festivals across the United States. This performance is part of DCCA’s casual Coffeehouse Series which features high-quality professional artists in an inviting social setting where food and drink are also available for purchase.

According to DCCA Artistic Director Keith Rawlins, Doug Wood is an excellent choice for a Coffeehouse performance. “Doug connects with his audiences not only through his outstanding musical skills, but also with his wry sense of humor,” Rawlins said. Rawlins also said that the artist’s specific musical genre is somewhat difficult to classify. “Doug’s playing ranges from soft and sweet to boisterous and aggressive, his music ranges from folk/rock to jazz to Celtic to classical; I guess you can call him a progressive acoustic guitar player who’s a lot of fun to listen to,” Rawlins concluded.

DCCA’s Coffeehouse performances are sponsored by Tom and Julie Graber, Steve and Eileen Litchfield, and Rodney Oda.  Additionally, DCCA receives funding from the Ohio Arts Council, the state agency that supports public programs in the arts.

Tickets for Doug Wood’s show cost $10, and may be reserved by contacting DCCA at 937-547-0908 or dcca@centerforarts.net.  If any remain by showtime, tickets will also be available at the door. Those wishing to dine at Michael-Anthony’s at the Inn prior to the performance should make dinner reservations by contacting the Inn.

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2012 TOUR DE DONUT REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

Online and Mail-in registration is open for the 2012 Tour de Donut

Last year over 900 participants from 17 states and Canada took part.

Registration will be open until the 1500 rider limit is reached or until the September 3rd deadline. There is no day of registration.
The Tour de Donut is a unique bicycle event, where your ability to eat donuts is just as important as your ability to ride your bicycle. The event is a timed bicycle “race” where riders visit two “donut stops” during the 30 mile course and eat donuts. For each donut the rider eats during the ride (and keeps down) they have 5 minutes deducted from their ride time.

The Donut mini will return with one donut stop on the 15 mile course. The mini will offer its own awards just like the longer distance while offering an alternative to those who are concerned about the full route allowing younger riders and families to take part in the fun.
Prizes are awarded in age group classes including the coveted golden Tour de Donut championship belts for the best adjusted “donut time”  in addition to most donuts eaten and fastest bike only time.

You do not have to be an experiences cyclist to take part in this event. While the event is technically a “race” very few consider it a serious competition, remember this is all in fun!  Anyone on a bicycle is welcome.
www.thetourdedonut.com

DARKE COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER – PETS OF THE WEEK

Pets of the week

Rambo is a 4-year-old Red Heeler (Australian Cattle Dog). He is red and white with short hair. He is current on his shots and is good with kids. He is a nice dog and is looking for a good home.

CoCo is a 2-year-old Chocolate Lab. She is mostly brown with a little white. She has short hair. She is a friendly girl and only weighs around 50 pounds. She will make a super companion.

We also have a couple lab mixes, a Chihuahua, a Walker and numerous other dogs. We also have cats and kittens for adoption.

The Shelter hours are 8am till 4:30pm Monday-Friday and 9:00 till noon on Saturday. The Shelter is located at 5066 County Home Road in Greenville, and the phone number is 547-1645.

2012 Ohio County Dog licenses are on sale. They can be purchased at the following locations. Suttons in Arcanum, Pattys IGA in Bradford, Farmers State Bank in New Madison, Birts Store in New Weston, Osgood State Bank in Osgood, Old National Bank in Union City, Ace Hardware in Versailles, Ace Hardware in Greenville, the Auditors Office, and the Darke County Animal Shelter.

Something new for the County, You can purchase your dog license on-line at www.darkecountyrealestate.org. (Auditors web-site)

ALL DOGS OVER 3 MONTHS OF AGE MUST HAVE A LICENSE. For more information you can contact the Animal Shelter at 937-547-1645. To see the dogs we have, go to our web site at www.darkecountyanimalshelter.com.

FREE TAX CLINIC

GREENVILLE, OH – NextStep Ministries and the Ohio Benefit Bank is offering free tax completion on February 4, February 18 and March 3.  These FREE tax clinics will be held at 501 Gray Ave, Greenville, OH. If you would like one of our trained tax volunteers to help fill out your taxes this year, call 937-548-3211 ext 235 to schedule an appointment.  There are also evening and weekday appointments available. The only restrictions are that your income cannot exceed $60,000 and no farm or rental income.

This ministry has provided many Darke County residents with free tax completion, as well as brought close to 2.5 million dollars in tax refunds, rebates and benefits back into our county over the past four years.  Our Benefit Bank has been named the third highest in tax completions in the Southwest Region of the State of Ohio! Call today if you have any questions.

NextStep Ministries is a ministry of EUM Church.  Our worship services are Saturday at 6:30 p.m. and Sunday at 8:15, 9:45, and 11:15 a.m. at our Worship Center located at 1451 Sater Street (corner of Sater and Sebring-Warner Road) in Greenville, OH.  The Downtown Campus, 111 Devor Street, houses our offices and preschool.  For more information, go to www.eumchurch.org or call 548-3211.

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FULL MOON HIKE TO BE HELD FEB. 7

Winter Full Moons provide fantastic hiking; and what better way to spend a Full Moon Hike than with your hike-loving Pooch! Participants are encouraged (not required) to bring their leashed dog along.   The February Full Moon hike will be held on Tuesday, February 7th at 6:30pm.  This hike will be held at Routzong Preserve (located on Routzong Rd, just off of 571-East).  The light from the moon will guide you along the trails of this Beech-Maple forest.  In the event of cloudy skies, the hike will be cancelled.   For more information on this and other hikes lead by the Darke County Parks, call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165 or visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org.

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BIRD FEEDERWATCH PROJECT HELD EACH WEEK

Calling all birders! Join a Naturalist at the Darke County Park District’s Nature Center for Project FeederWatch.   FeederWatch occurs every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:30am-11:30am and is an annual ‘Citizen Science’ program organized by Cornell University which studies winter bird populations. No matter your birding level, beginner or expert, we need YOUR help! We’ll gather inside the Nature Center and count the birds that visit our bird-feeding station.  You read that right, you don’t  even have to go outside!  Do you like to be outside in the cool Winter weather? There is something invigorating about crisp winter morning air! Join a naturalist as we hike the trails of Shawnee Prairie each and every Tuesday morning. These hikes will not only focus on birds, but tree ID, winter animal tracks and anything else that catches our eye! Meet in the Nature Center parking lot Tuesday mornings starting at 9:00am.  Hope to see you on then!

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HEARTH COOKING CLASS, FEB. 4

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to cook without a microwave or oven?  Many pioneer meals were prepared at the hearth of an open fireplace. Head on out to the Log House at Shawnee Prairie Preserve (4267 St. Rt. 502 West) to learn about hearth cooking on Saturday, February 4th at 1:00pm.   Warm yourself by the fire as you will be taught how the pioneers prepared their foods. At the hearthside cooking, you will not only taste some sweet and delicious dishes but you will also be put to work for some hands-on learning on exactly how pioneer women prepared their food.  Pre-Registration is required for this event, so call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165.  The fee for this program is $5 per person.  For more information on this and other programs offered by the Darke County Parks, please visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org

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SPRING GARDENING WORKSHOP, FEB. 18

Are you tired of the dreary weather?  Why not think ahead to spring?  Shake those winter blues by joining the Olde Thyme Gardeners and the Darke County Parks for their annual Spring Gardening Workshop held on Saturday, February 18 from 9:00 until 4:00 at the Shawnee Prairie Nature Center, 4267 State Route 502, Greenville, Ohio 45331.

The theme of this year’s event is “Back to Nature”.  We have our very popular speakers returning this year as well as some newcomers.  Donna Kronenberger and Charlie Cressel were so well received at our fall herb workshop that we invited them to come back.  Donna will be speaking on “Sprouting for Better Health” and Charlie will talk about natural weed control and soil amendments.  Also returning by popular demand is Mandy Martin speaking on hummingbird and butterfly gardens. Well known speakerg Wes Duren of Marvin’s Organic Gardens in Lebanon, Ohio will discuss “Organic Container Gardening” and noted author Robert L. Henn will speak about Ohio’s Wildflowers.  His book will be available for sale and signing.

Pre-registration is required and the workshop is limited to the first 50 participants so be sure to sign up early!  The fee is $30 which covers the cost of speakers, materials and a catered lunch.  If you would like a lunch, registration is required by Friday, February 10.  The cost is $25 if you register after February 10 and you will be on your own for lunch.  Of course, you may register for $25 at any time for the workshop only and no lunch.  Please call Olde Thyme Gardener President Bethany DuPuy at 937-547-0877 or 937-417-8917 if you have any questions.  You may register in person at the nature center office or mail your check made out to The Olde Thyme Gardeners, c/o Darke County Parks, PO Box 801, 4267 St Rt 502, Greenville, Oh 45331.  Come and join the gardening fun and you may even walk away with a door prize!

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LEARN TO PLAY THE MOUNTAIN DULCIMER

Do you have a mountain dulcimer gathering dust at your house?  It’s time to learn to play it!  This program is for those who attended the first Mountain Dulcimer program, but beginners are welcome!  Volunteer Margaret Hensel will host another informative lesson in the art of the Mountain Dulcimer at the Darke County Parks Nature Center on Thursday, February 9th at 6:00pm.   This program will review what we learned (and may have forgotten) from the first dulcimer program and then take you to the next step in playing your dulcimer. Space is limited, so be sure to register early!  To pre-register, call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165.  There is a $2 fee for this program. **Attendees must provide their own 6 ½ fret dulcimer.**

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WINTER TREE ID PROGRAM, JAN. 28

Most people know the familiar shape of a maple leaf or can ID an oak tree with the acorns on the ground.  Once the leaves have gone and the squirrels have taken the nuts, can you ID a tree in the winter woods?   Join us at the Nature Center on Saturday, January 28th at 1pm for an informative program on the identification of trees in the winter season. We’ll learn how we can use bark, terminal buds, growth pattern and other “tricks” to learn our trees! After a lecture indoors, we’ll head into the field to learn some of the basic trees around Shawnee Prairie and practice some skills from the lecture. Be sure to dress for the weather. There will be various tree field guides available for purchase.

To pre-register for this event or for more information, call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165 or visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org.

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CORNHOLE LEAGUE NOW FORMING IN DARKE COUNTY

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WHAT’S BIRD BANDING ALL ABOUT?

Have you ever seen a bird with a colored “bracelet” on its leg or heard of someone “banding” a bird and wonder why someone would do that? Please join the Darke County Parks on Saturday, February 4th at 9:00 am, in welcoming Dr. Dave Russell of the Avian Research and Education Institute.  Dr. Russell will help us discover what the use of bird banding and how scientists use this popular technique.  After our informative lecture, we’ll head to the bird banding station to watch as Dr. Russell bands our local songbirds.  The Avian Research and Education Institute (AREI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the preservation of avian populations. Their mission is to protect and conserve avian populations through research, education and advocacy. AREI is committed to establishing biological stations that will provide bird banding and environmental education to the public.

Space is limited for this extremely popular program, so be sure to pre-register early. There is a fee of $2 per person.

For more information or to pre-register for this program, call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165 or visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org.  Don’t miss this opportunity to see some of our local songbirds up close!

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