Progress 2013 by The Times-Gazette

Progress 2013 A

fter a few years of downturns, layoffs and tough economic times, 2012 was a relatively stable year for jobs and the economy of Highland County. The jobless rate has fallen, although it does not fully account for the number of individuals still seeking work. But the county avoided any major manufacturing layoffs and, in fact, jobs were added at various plants and in numerous sectors. Government officials, business owners, organizational leaders and educators are cautiously predicting that 2013 will bring better times to Highland County. In today’s annual “Progress 2013” edition, we take a closer look at where we’ve been and where we’re going as we enter a new year.

Proven to Work

Government

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“People aren’t as fearful as they once were and they are buying again.” ~ Jenny Cameron, owner of Real Living Classic Real Estate

“We have to learn that we are regionally connected to our surrounding counties. Each one helps the other.” ~ Shane Wilkin, county commissioner

Entrepreneurs Page 4 “I think 2013 is going to be a great year of growth for Highland County. We have some really great businesses about to open and some great ideas just forming for our community.” ~ Sharon Bedard, Grow! Highland County business facilitator

Organizations Page 6 “We’re going to strive to make great friendships and be a great place to be in 2013,” ~ Mechell Frost, Highland County Senior Center director

Education Page 3 "Probably the one thing that makes us most proud is achieving an 'excellent with distinction' rating, all three buildings were rated excellent for the first time, and we had our highest performance index ever." ~ Bill Garrett, Fairfield superintendent

A special supplement to The Times-Gazette Dec. 28 2012, and County Shopper Dec. 30 2012

Page 2 • The Times-Gazette Dec. 28 and County Shopper Dec. 30 2012

Progress 2013 — Government

The combined efforts of local, state and federal officials in 2012 led to the funding necessary to perform upgrades and repairs on the Greenfield rail line, a crucial transportation link that supports about 1,000 jobs in Highland County.

Local officials express ‘cautious optimism’ heading into 2013 Key Points

■ Elected leaders point to stable sales tax, expansion projects across county By GARY ABERNATHY The Times-Gazette

“Cautious optimism” might be the best way to describe the attitude of most elected officials in Highland County when asked to look ahead to 2013. County and municipal officials agree that they face economic and governmental challenges in the coming months, but they also express a sense of hope, noting that sales tax revenue – a good indicator of consumer confidence – has been steady or rising, and that the county avoided any major manufacturing cutbacks or layoffs in 2012. In fact, some companies expanded and hired additional workers. “The sales tax revenue has stayed pretty stable,” said Highland County

Commissioner Tom Horst. That’s important because when it comes to county government “we live off sales tax revenue,” said Horst. Commissioners are expressing confidence in the coming year’s revenue by providing “a little more help this year for officeholders. Not a lot, but a little,” said Horst. Horst pointed to expansion plans by businesses like PAS Technologies in HiIlsboro, Huhtamaki in New Vienna and a relatively new business located in Lynchburg, Mirac Inc. While Huhtamaki’s proposed expansion would occur at the old Ford plant in Batavia, Horst said the company is maintaining its New Vienna presence, and local residents might find good jobs at the new site even if it’s not in Highland County.

Horst and his fellow commissioners also hope this will be the year when the long-planned Hobart Drive expansion in Hillsboro becomes a reality. The plan to create a new connector between North High Street and SR 73 will not only lessen traffic congestion, but “open up the north end of Hillsboro for economic development,” said Horst. Commissioner Shane Wilkin points to jobs added over the past year at Weastec in Hillsboro, and the planned expansion of C-Mold in Greenfield as positive factors, and notes that the county’s first revolving loan fund was started as a direct result of the C-Mold plans, but exists now to assist other companies, too.

See GOVERNMENT I Page 7

❍ “The sales tax revenue has stayed pretty stable,” said Highland County Commissioner Tom Horst. That’s important because when it comes to county government “we live off sales tax revenue,” said Horst. ❍ Commissioner Shane Wilkin points to jobs added over the past year at Weastec in Hillsboro, and the planned expansion of C-Mold in Greenfield as positive factors, and notes that the county’s first revolving loan fund was started as a direct result of the C-Mold plans, but exists now to assist other companies, too. ❍ Greenfield city manager Betty Bishop is proud of a wind and solar energy initiative planned for Greenfield. "The feasibility study came back very positive," she says. "It's ready for a new person to fly with it."

In May, officials toured PAS Technologies in Hillsboro when it announced a major expansion plan. Gathered on the roof of the PAS plant to view the new signage added across the way to the roof of the former Carter's Machine Shop were, from left, commissioner Tom Horst, then-chamber president Katie Farber, commissioner Shane Wilkin, PAS general manager Dan Boggs, and Kevin Hoggatt from U.S. Sen. Rob Portman's office.

❍ Hillsboro mayor Drew Hastings plans a major push on code enforcement in 2013, which he believes will ultimately lead to a brighter, cleaner town and eventually fewer empty storefronts in the uptown region.

The Times-Gazette Dec. 28 and County Shopper Dec. 30 2012 • Page 3

Progress 2013 — Education

Mark and Mick Ford with Ford Excavating are shown working on the track project at Hillsboro’s High School and Middle School. Hillsboro Superintendent Rick Earley said he is excited about the track project, not just for student athletes, but for the entire community.

2012 was a good year for education ■ Most schools have sights set on even bigger goals in coming year By JEFF GILLILAND The Times-Gazette

rom Southern State Community College to the public and private schools, 2012 was a good year for education in Highland County, and most all have their sights set on even bigger goals in 2013. Following is a school-by-school look at what administrators told The Times-Gazette they thought were their most noteworthy accomplishments in the past year and what they're looking forward to in the coming year. Southern State Community College The college with its main campus in Hillsboro converted to semesters, rebranded itself, signed new partnerships and earned several honors in the past year. "If change is good, then 2012 has been fantastic for Southern State Community College," the college said in a news release. "It’s been a

year for reintroducing ourselves among those who may remember a community college from years past, but aren’t fully aware of the advancements we’ve been making; a year for repositioning ourselves by understanding what makes us different. "… We have gone through many changes, but one thing will never change: our commitment to our students. And that brings us to our greatest accomplishment of the year. In June, we congratulated our largest graduating class ever, proudly conferring degrees and certificates to 596 well-deserving students." Southern State is preparing, or already is, partly in partnerships with other institutions, offering new degrees for dental assistants and veterinary assistants, aviation maintenance, food processing and technology, electromechanical engineering, criminal justice administration and truck driving. As the new year approaches, it is also progressing with plans for a

new campus on 63 acres near Mount Orab in Brown County. Bright Local Schools Bright Local Superintendent Dee Wright said highlights of the past year were the high school receiving an "excellent" rating and the junior high improving its test scores. "At the elementary we still have some work to do, but I've been really impressed with the staff and their willingness to step to the plate and try to improve. She said she's also proud that the school district has adopted several needy families for the holidays and has a very active role in supporting a food panty at Sugar Tree Ridge. As far as preparing for next year, Wright said, "We're working toward preparing for the new standards that are coming and doing a lot of professional development for our staff. We also hope to get the community a little more involved in taking a little ownership in their school district. See EDUCATION I Page 8

Key Points ❍ “If change is good, then 2012 has been fantastic for Southern State Community College,” the school said in a press release. ❍ “... we’re looking at ways to make sure every kid has the kind of classroom they need to be in,” said Bill Garrett, Fairfield superintendent. ❍ Greenfield superintendent Terry Fouch said, “We have worked very hard to bring our students into a position where they are in a competitive posture with other students around the state.” ❍ “I think people have a tendency to look at the negative, and there's an awful lot of positive out there with our kids today,” Hillsboro superintendent Rick Earley said. ❍ Shane Shope, LynchburgClay superintendent, said, “We have a community that provides great support to our schools throughout the course of the year ...”

Greenfield Elementary students are shown visiting residents at Edgewood Manor. Greenfield Superintendent Terry Fouch said parents need to encourage their children to think creatively about life after high school and graduation.

❍ While Bright Local Superintendent Dee Wright was disappointed in some state results, she pointed out that the high school rated "excellent" and missed "excellent with distinction" by just three-tenths of a point.

Page 4 • The Times-Gazette Dec. 28 and County Shopper Dec. 30 2012

Progress 2013 — Entrepreneurs

TwentyFour Exchange consignment shop added its TwentyFour Pizza and Deli, including a sweet shop, in May of 2012. Shown above is the Colony Theatre’s original projector which is on display at the deli for the community to enjoy.

New business ventures help ensure Highland County success Key T Points ■ Entrepreneurs, new businesses a testament to moving in right direction

By ANGELA SHEPHERD The Times-Gazette

he progress may be gradual and difficult to see sometimes, but the county continues to make positive strides and the addition of several new businesses within the last year is perhaps a testament to the area moving in the right direction. “I think 2013 is going to be a great year of growth for Highland County. We have some really great businesses about to open and some great ideas just forming for our community,” said Sharon Bedard, business facilitator for Grow Highland County, a partnership between the Highland County Chamber of Commerce and Southern State Community College. "I am amazed at the number of people that have contacted us for help with a small business idea. Since August we have served 20 new clients," Bedard said. She said those 20 new clients bring the total for the organization to

137, which includes both new and existing businesses. Entrepreneur Lisa Keys is one that has sought the services of Grow Highland County and is working with Bedard on a small business plan to begin her own mobile massage business. Keys has been a massage therapist for about six years, mostly offering therapeutic and medical massage and doing so out of several locations. What she would like to do is take things on the road by offering an inhome service and have the ability to get to people who cannot get to her. “I hope to be able to reach as many people as I can to make it easier for them to get treatment,” Keys said. Highland County Chamber of Commerce President Melissa Elmore said the chamber is experiencing a lot of growth and success and that 46 new businesses joined the chamber in 2012. Elmore said that November and

December had been really busy months for the chamber. One part of the business and success is likely the “countless number” of ribbon cuttings for new businesses that the chamber has attended. One of those ribbon cuttings was for the new business Bon Appétit, located on Main Street. New businesses like this, and the successful established businesses, prompt business owner and Hillsboro Uptown Business Association President Rachelle Trefz to say, “I think things are looking up.” Trefz talked about fewer empty storefronts and the addition of new businesses in uptown Hillsboro like Bon Appétit and Highland County Nutrition located on High Street and Slow and Low Barbeque relocating to uptown. One of those empty storefronts was filled in May when the TwentyFour Exchange consignment shop, which

See ENTREPRENEURS I Page 7

❍ “I think 2013 is going to be a great year of growth for Highland County,” said Sharon Bedard, business facilitator for Grow Highland County. ❍ Highland County Chamber of Commerce President Melissa Elmore said the chamber is experiencing a lot of growth and success and that 46 new businesses had joined the chamber in 2012. ❍ “It was an opportunity to bring something to uptown,” said Cory Taylor, who is in the process of opening Hillsboro Auto at West and Main streets in Hillsboro. ❍ Barnyard Cafe owner Steve McComas said, “We have a lot more volume of customers than we ever expected.”

Steve McComas opened the Barnyard Café in Marshall, on the eastern side of the county, in July and is already looking to expand, saying that ground was recently broken for that expansion. The café just started delivery as well. Shown are Barnyard Café employees.

❍ “I see amazing things in the coming year,” Southwest Ohio Animal Health owner Garrett Arrowood said.

The Times-Gazette Dec. 28 and County Shopper Dec. 30 2012 • Page 5

Progress 2013 — Proven to Work

Star Cinemas was able to upgrade from 35mm film projectors to new digital projectors earlier this year. Shown are two of the replaced 35mm film projectors in the middle, one of the new digital sound set ups on the right, and one of the new projectors on the left.

Proven businesses see promising outlook for 2013 ■ Confidence seems to be returning in real estate, retail markets By ANGELA SHEPHERD The Times-Gazette

hile the last few years have presented their fair share of economic struggles, there are businesses that have weathered the good and the bad across the county and see good things for tomorrow. One way Hillsboro businesses have kept themselves visible is by participating in the Hillsboro Uptown Business Association's First Friday events. Through the summer, HUBA hosted cruise-ins and art walks where local artists displayed pieces of art at uptown businesses. HUBA president Rachelle Trefz said the First Friday events, held on the first Friday of every month, go on throughout the year. Trefz said the events of the summer were a success and helped to draw people to local businesses. Another big part of the success of local businesses is that people seek their services. Spearheaded by the

Highland County Chamber of Commerce, several “shop local” initiatives began in 2012, most recently with the $25 Days of Christmas. The $25 Days of Christmas kicked off in November and had 15 chamber member participating businesses and gave incentives to those who shopped locally and spent $25 or more in participating businesses. Chamber president Melissa Elmore said the chamber anticipates double the business participation in next year’s campaign. The campaign wrapped up Dec. 14 and Elmore said that in the campaign’s three-week period “we had 1,570 entries totaling $39,250 that went back into our local economy.” The total is based off a minimum $25 purchase, she said. The chamber says that $68 - versus $43 from non-locally-owned businesses - of every $100 spent at locallyowned businesses goes back into the local economy, and that means jobs and economic stability for tomorrow. While Elmore says there is some

uncertainty for any business’ future decisions until budget decisions are made on Capitol Hill, she said, “The outlook for 2013 looks promising,” adding that many businesses reported increased sales and have had a strong fourth quarter, while others are up in sales, but profit margins are tighter. “We began all of these new initiatives, while continuing each of our successful networking, advocacy, promotional and educational efforts this past year,” Elmore said. She also said the chamber has had “countless ribbon cuttings.” One of those ribbon cuttings was at Wooden It Be Nice, a multi-state construction company based in Greenfield that opened in 2007. Since then, owner and president Wes Surritt says the company has expanded, and in April the Chamber Red Coats came for the ribbon cutting on the newlyacquired and renovated facility.

See PROVEN I Page 9

Key Points ❍ The chamber’s “$25 Days of Christmas” campaign wrapped up Dec. 14 and chamber president Melissa Elmore said that in the campaign’s three-week period “we had 1,570 entries totaling $39,250 that went back into our local economy.” ❍ “Borrowers are taking advantage of lower rates for refinancing of the current home loans,” said Deb Jones, co-president of NCB Bank. ❍ “People aren’t as fearful as they once were and they are buying again,” said Jenny Cameron of Classic Realty. ❍ Since updating the equipment at Star Cinemas, managing partner Phil Roberts said the theater has seen an increase in business.

Moon Tractor, located on West Main Street in Hillsboro, has been in business since 1949. The current owner, Eric Moon, is a third-generation owner.

❍ Eric Moon of Moon Tractor said, “I think we are very fortunate to be in our area…to have what we have in this area.”

Page 6 • The Times-Gazette Dec. 28 and County Shopper Dec. 30 2012

Progress 2013 — Organizations

At Kamp Dovetail last summer, camper Toni Burns prepares to take a horseback ride in a shady nook of the camp as volunteers help her saddle up. Kamp Dovetail is a volunteer-run, weeklong summer camp for children with disabilities.

Groups will continue to meet the needs of citizens in 2013 ■ Outreach programs distribute goods, bridge relationships, provide assistance By LORI TUTTLE The Times-Gazette

dreds of lives have been touched in 2012 by the generosity of others ighland County has through these special been blessed with a groups. Hope Christian Alliance number of organiis a food ministry and diszations that continue to tribution partner that works help its citizens, and hun-

with three other partners under the Help the Hungry organization. Hope Christian Alliance partners with Sugartree in Clinton County, Pro52.com in Butler County and Grace by Faith in Brookville, Ind. to service the needs of those in seven Ohio counties, Kentucky and Indiana regions. Hope works with 22 food pantries, 10 food kitchens and has 22 partners that offer assistance such as electric, healthcare, blankets and stuffed animals for flood victims, agriculture assistance, etc. Hope’s garden project has become quite noteworthy over the past year, growing from just an acre of planted food for the needy to 22 acres at four different sites. The garden project, which invites other service groups to help with planting, upkeep and harvesting, grows green beans, sweet corn, potatoes, tomatoes and cabbage. In looking ahead to 2013, Hope Christian Alliance Director Curtis Pegram said that he is currently putting a plan together to present to a local group in order to possibly establish a cannery and fruit orchard. He is working to get all the pieces into place before presenting the idea. The Highland County Senior Center recently partnered with Hope to provide canning, freezing and some distribution. What is beneficial about Hope partnering with three other alliances is that an The Highland District Hospital Foundation bridges the community abundance of one item, like with the hospital by getting citizens involved with meeting various JTM meat, can be traded or needs. Fundraising for a digital mammography unit is currently redistributed for things like under way.

garden goods. The four groups distribute what is most needed in their regions. Hope has gone from distributing one semi truckload every other week, to five per week, and the group is currently struggling with distribution and is in need of a warehouse. But, Faith by Grace, which was started by four Navy Seals, according to Pegram, has offered to build a warehouse and others in the community have been helping make the need happen. “Four alliances come together for a mega food ministries and distribution (system),” Pegram said. “We all feel blessed to just be a part of this. God is doing an amazing thing here. There’s just nothing like it (here in Highland County).” Hope has gone from servicing 3,135 families in December 2012 to 5,875 in October of 2012. Every Friday at 2 p.m. at New Life Church and Ministries on state Route 247, Hope distributes goods to anyone in need. The pastor of New Life, Bill Bowman, is the president of the alliance and is a coordinator with Help the Hungry. Kamp Dovetail, a volunteer-run, weeklong summer camp for children with disabilities in Highland and surrounding counties, is sponsored by Supplementary Assistance to The Handicapped (SATH). SATH Executive Director Linda Allen said that it was a rough year financially for their mission See ORGANIZATIONS I Page 10

Key Points ❍ “God is doing an amazing thing here. There’s just nothing like it (here in Highland County),” Hope Christian Alliance Director Curtis Pegram said. ❍ Highland District Hospital Foundation Director Cathy Jones said she feels many people in the community continue to support the foundation’s causes because almost every family has been touched by the hospital in some way. ❍ Highland County Senior Center Director Mechell Frost said that the center hopes to continue expanding its referral services, get more information than ever to its seniors, and has a fantastic 2013 tour program coming up.

The Times-Gazette Dec. 28 and County Shopper Dec. 30 2012 • Page 7

Progress 2013 Government: continued from Page 2 But more than that, Wilkin believes Highland County must continue to see itself as part of a bigger region. He points to aviation-related companies and assets like the airpark in Clinton County and GE in Adams County that, coupled with a company like PAS in Hillsboro, creates an aviation corridor. “We have to learn that we are regionally connected to our surrounding counties,” said Wilkin. “Each one helps the other.” Several officials interviewed pointed to the successful effort to fund the upgrade and repair of the Greenfield rail line as a key victory in 2012 and an important linchpin to future success. “That was huge,” said commissioner Jeremy Shaffer, noting that about 1,000 jobs were preserved as a result of the state and federal funding gained to repair the line. Shaffer said that “sometimes government is a little behind” in recognizing the imminent loss of jobs, not reacting until it’s too late. But thanks to efforts of local officials like Greenfield city manager Betty Bishop, State Rep. Cliff Rosenberger and others, “We saved that,” said Shaffer. Bishop agrees, expressing pride in the accomplishment as she prepares to retire at the end of December after three years at the helm in Greenfield. Along with the importance of the rail spur, Bishop is also proud of a wind and solar energy initiative planned for Greenfield. "The feasibility study came back very positive," she says. "It's ready for a new person to fly with it." Greenfield has been interviewing applicants to become the new city manager. In Hillsboro, mayor Drew Hastings is wrapping up the first year of his tenure, and it was a rocky start, particularly in regard to the issue of fire coverage in Hillsboro and the surrounding townships. But now that the fire issue seems to be reaching a conclusion, Hastings looks forward to 2013 and said, “Yes, I’m optimistic.” Hastings added, “I would say we’re going to be working on things that position us to be poised for success, which means rebuilding. There is still money falling through the cracks that can be saved.”

Super t Instan o t t o L

Hastings plans a major push on code enforcement in 2013, which he believes will ultimately lead to a brighter, cleaner town and eventually fewer empty storefronts in the uptown region. “We’re not ready for a ‘Welcome to Hillsboro’ campaign yet,” said Hastings. “We can’t make a splash until we fill the pool, and I hope we can fill the pool next year.” Lynchburg mayor Robbie Wallace said that like all municipalities, his village is facing the realities of fewer state funds and other cuts. But he is optimistic about the coming year. “We have to find unique ways to make up those funds without putting the burden on constituents,” said Wallace. “We’re asking people to work with us, and we’re getting a lot of positive feedback.” Completing just his first year in office, Wallace said he looks to his community for new ideas. Voters recently again shot down a police levy, but Wallace is committed to maintaining a police department in Lynchburg. “We have a full-time chief and auxiliary officers,” said Wallace, who is working on trying to bring on an additional officer. He said the county sheriff’s office has been “working with us very well.” Wallace is also excited about the Mirac Inc. plant in Lynchburg, which he said employs about 50 local workers, with plans to expand. Mirac is an electronics assembly and fabrication company, with computer boards among the items it produces for contract clients. Wallace said the village helped the company CEO, Ralph Captain, successfully negotiate land and buildings for additional growth. In Leesburg, mayor Danny Daulton believes the economy is “looking better,” and he’s excited about a water meter project and a plan to rid the community of rundown properties. “We’re going to be tearing down blighted houses,” said Daulton. Daulton said the Greenfield rail line success was important, especially since companies served by the line, including Candle-lite, are in and around his town. He also points to expansion plans by the Mason Company, a longtime Leesburg business specializing in fencing and animal enclosures. “All in all, it’s looking pretty good,” said Daulton.

Hillsboro Auto LLC is a new business going in at the corner of West and Main streets.

Entrepreneurs: continued from Page 4 opened in 2011, added its TwentyFour Pizza and Deli, including a sweet shop. Co-owner Amy Robinson said the business had a lot of extra space and wanted to fill it with something that was different and that everyone could enjoy while also taking advantage of the storefront and adding to uptown Hillsboro and the historic district. Since opening, Robinson says business has been booming. “We are really, really thankful” for the success with the business. She said they are still expanding and adding new menu items all the time. Another new business coming to uptown Hillsboro, and to be located on the corner of West and Main Streets, is Hillsboro Motors, and owner Cory Taylor says he hopes to be opening by the first of the year. Taylor, who has sold cars before, said this was a chance to redo the building and do something positive with the “dead corner” that had stood vacant for so long. “It was an opportunity to bring something to uptown,” Taylor said. In Marshall, what started as an idea for a dairy bar has turned into a seven-day a week restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating and full breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. Steve McComas opened the Barnyard Café in July and is already looking to expand, adding that ground was recently broken for that expansion. The café just started delivery as well. McComas opened the café because he said it is something that he has always wanted to do.

“We have a lot more volume of customers than we ever expected,” McComas said. “We are very pleased with business.” Southwest Ohio Animal Health, located on U.S. Route 50 west, just opened its doors in November. Owner Garrett Arrowood said that he and his wife, Sylvia, had the opportunity to open up in Highland County and they took it. Arrowood said it was an opportunity to fill a need in the county so people could get what they need locally. The local aspect is important to the Arrowoods as well as they buy and showcase local items as much as possible. Southwest Ohio Animal Health provides over-the-counter animal health supplies for livestock, equine and pets. Arrowood said it’s like “a CVS for animals.” Arrowood said they are hopeful to give back to the community. He said they love animals and being able to provide what people need in Highland County. According to Arrowood, there are plans to host livestock and equine clinics and they have “tons of ideas” for growing into the extra space they have available. “We want to make a connection with people,” he said, adding that the people who come in the store are not just customers, but friends and neighbors. For the future, Arrowood said, “I see amazing things in the coming year.” As to the growth and success of businesses coming on in the area Bedard said, “It is exciting to see new business in Highland County. And as our friends and neighbors follow their dreams, we can help by buying local.”

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Progress 2013 continued from Page 3 "We want to keep working with our board of education, keep working with the staff and keep doing the best we can for the kids of Bright Local." Fairfield Local Schools Superintendent Bill Garrett said that one thing he's probably most proud of over the past year is that the school district was rated "excellent with distinction" as a whole, all three of the district's buildings were rated excellent, and the district received its highest ever performance index. He also said more people are moving into the district. "I think we've seen growth in the student population this year. I think a lot of our plans for the coming year are going to be finding a way to house everybody," Garrett said. "Our open enrollment has increased and we're looking at ways to make sure every kid has the kind of classroom they need to be in." Another goal for the coming year, Garrett said, is for the district to spend less money than it takes. He said Fairfield has accomplished that each of the past five years. But he said the main area of concentration is going to be finding a place to house all the students. He said final numbers are not exact for his year, but his best estimate is that the Fairfield schools have grown by 35 to 40 students this year over a year ago, a significant increase for a small school district. Garrett said new students are scattered throughout all grade levels, but the most of them are in the lower grades. Asked how the community could support the district, Garrett said it just needs to keep doing what it's already doing. "I think the community has already helped us," he said. "A year and half ago they passed our renewal improvement levy that enabled us to purchase equipment, upgrade our technology and infrastructure, and some was set aside for classroom development. We've always had great support from the community helping us in areas like that to participating in all the events we have at the schools." Greenfield Exempted Village Schools Superintendent Terry Fouch said one thing he's proud of is the fact that Greenfield has been able to install 91 smart boards throughout the district in recent years. "The ability to improve our students' access to technology has been a huge step forward for our school district," Fouch said. "We have worked very hard to bring our students into a position where they are in a competitive posture with other students around the state." Fouch said that with the recent changes in accountability models, time needs to be spent in the coming year to see exactly how those models will be introduced. He said the district also needs to communicate with parents about the increased rigors on students' academic performance. He said that means that parents to need to become engaged and active in their childrens' education in areas like making sure they attend school, complete homework and relating to the

Hillsboro Christian Academy Administrator Connie Sears says that in the five years since the academy's inception, enrollment has grown from a junior high/high school to a K-12 school with approximately 70 students. Besides being chartered with the state of Ohio, the school continues to be a member of

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the Association of Christian Schools, International. The existing facilities in the Church of the Nazarene on U.S. Route 50 have been augmented with three modular buildings. "Our academic achievements and Christian service are of great importance to the school," Sears said. "In the last two years, most of our high school students participated in the Anthony Munoz Foundation's Leadership Conference at Xavier University. This year, several of our high school students participated in two mock UN forums in Columbus. At the conclusion of this year's first quarter, over 50 percent of our students were eligible for the honor roll, several receiving 4.0 grade point averages. Hillsboro City Schools Twenty-five of our high school students are Superintendent Rick Earley said that what he's probably most proud of over the past year enrolled in Post Secondary courses at Southern is the fact that for the first time ever the district State or Ohio Christian University. Looking to the future, Sears said, "We are received an "excellent" rating as a whole. always interested in working with parents who "As a superintendent I'm proud of the way want their children to achieve academically in a that the staff worked in depth to make things Christian environment. We also want our stubetter for our kids academically," Earley said. I'm excited about the track project, and not just dents to become more others-oriented and less for our student athletes, but for the entire com- self-centered, becoming more Christ-like and less like the world. We continually search for munity, and with the new tennis courts here, our campus just becomes more of a hub for the staff, students, and curriculum which will help to achieve this vision. Also, locating some land community." for a permanent facility for the school is a Earley said that looking toward the coming year, some of the primary challenges are going dream for the future." to be keeping up with all the new mandates like St. Mary Catholic School third-grade reading and teacher evaluations. Administrator/principal Mary Stanforth says As for how the community can help the that so far this year the school is concentrating Hillsboro schools, Earley said, "I think just being involved through volunteering. We have a on core curriculum recently mandated by the state and getting its students ready for the lot of students that need one-on-one help, someone they can connect to, and just support- "Iowa test," an achievement test administered to third- and fourth-grade students in the spring. ing our kids in general. Looking to the future, Stanforth said the "I think people have a tendency to look at the negative, and there's an awful lot of positive out school is hoping to expand its preschool. It currently offers preschool for 3 and 4-year-olds, there with our kids today." but is hoping to start a preschool for early 4year-olds who miss the enrollment cutoff date. Lynchburg-Clay Schools "One of the biggest misconceptions here is "As a district, the most important accomthat you have to be a Catholic. We accept all plishment is obviously with our students," superintendent Shane Shope said. "We continue faiths, and do offer a faith-based education," Stanforth said. "One other area where people to see improvements in our reading and math sometimes have a misconception is that not all achievement scores, which could not happen of our teachers are accredited and have a teachwithout a dedicated staff. Our board of education continues to look for ways to cut our costs ing certificate. I think that sometimes because and through a number of initiatives implement- we're not a public school, people think they ed in the last year, the district has seen a major don't have to have that." Stanforth said that now in its fourth year, the savings in energy usage and materials. school is starting to turn the corner, seeing "In the coming year we look to continue to meet the challenges that lie ahead regarding our more acceptance and starting to grow. She said finances, curriculum, and increasing our usage the school currently offers an education up to grade eight, but that it would like to expand to of technology in the classrooms. We also will more grades if it can find enough interested stucontinue to reach out to create and foster our dents. relationships with area businesses and other important social capital interests. We believe these relationships are valuable in the holistic development of our student body. Jenny M. Cameron Owner/Broker "We have a community that provides great support to our schools throughout the course of the year and with their ongoing and future help, our students will continue to grow to be champions in the classroom and ambassadors for our community." importance of a good education and placing a high value on it. Fouch said parents also need to encourage their children to think creatively about life after high school and graduation. "I think our school district continues to improve its academic performance," Fouch said. "We've made incremental improvements for several years now and need to impress upon our staff the importance of doing the best job possible for the students that we have here so that every child realizes their full potential as a student."

The Times-Gazette Dec. 28 and County Shopper Dec. 30 2012 • Page 9

Progress 2013 continued from Page 5 “We have seen a steady increase in our business the last five years,” Surritt said. The company, which covers 15 states, is already booked for three jobs next year, he said. Surritt sees good times ahead. He said, “There is going to be growth in 2013.” Deb Jones, co-president of NCB Bank, said the banking industry is seeing an upswing in business. “Economic uncertainty has made consumers hesitant to take on new debt. However, with rates at historical lows, home purchases and auto loans are on the rise as a result of the low interest rate environment. In addition, borrowers are taking advantage of lower rates for refinancing of the current home loans,” Jones said. Jenny Cameron, owner of Classic Realty, said “things are on the incline.” Business has been so busy for the agency that Cameron said they are planning to add new agents as current agents have been keeping very busy. “People aren’t as fearful as they once were and they are buying again,” Cameron said. Sue Boone, owner of Sue Boone Realty since 1993, said, "We have had a good year." She said that while financing for homes and

are being discussed as well, he said. “We have updated our quality of picture and sound,” Roberts said, to keep up with the technology and offer people the better-quality experience in Highland County. Since updating the equipment, he said the theater has seen an increase in business. “We are here to stay,” he said. “Now it’s up to Hollywood to keep making pictures people want to see.” Jenny Pitzer of Pitzer Trucking said, “Everything looks really good.” She said the company keeps getting bigger and getting more equipment, adding that all signs point to sustained growth for the company. Pitzer said they expect even more growth in the coming year. Charlie Stevens, owner of Stevens Hardware, which has been in Greenfield since 1990, said, "This year we have seen a little bit of improvement." Despite there being things yet to improve, Stevens said, "A lot of positive things are going on," not only in Greenfield but in the whole area - in particular, the recent funding package for the Greenfield rail spur, which he said was "very important" as it preserved many jobs. Stevens said his business is planning on some improvements for the coming year. He added

one of their seasons. Despite that, he said that the business has seen “more positive activity lately.” Moon, who has owned Moon Tractor for 20 years, said the business does not so much focus on agriculture anymore, but they offer items like chainsaws, zero-turn lawnmowers and different types of tractors. “We have just come out of what I feel has been a

very strong year for us,” Moon said of the 60-yearold business. One positive thing for Moon, and Highland County he said, is the area’s outdoor areas and its proximity to the larger cities. He says others come to the area for the state parks and the lakes and outdoor activities and said, “I think we are very fortunate to be in our area…to have what we have in this area.”

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that the one big unknown for everyone right now is waiting on Washington to come to some kind of agreement. Regardless, Stevens said, "I think things will continue to improve." Eric Moon, the thirdgeneration owner of Moon Tractor, said the last several months of business have been “much better.” Moon said their business is a seasonal one and Christmas is not generally

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properties still faces challenges, "I can see a positive difference in the way things are going." She said new construction is on the rise and she hopes to see that continue to increase in the coming year. All in all, Boone said, "Things are really turning around. I think people's confidence is beginning to come back." Richard Shriver, broker and owner of Shriver Gold Real Estate Company in Sugar Tree Ridge, said business has been very steady and that the company just opened a new office in West Union. Shriver said he is happy with the continued growth of the nearly 30year-old company and looks forward to more growth. “We hope to continue to grow, to take care of our customers and to welcome new ones,” Shriver said. Amy Fulkerson, who has owned Don Fender Realty for a decade, said this year the agency has seen “an upturn in sales.” “I think things are turning around,” Fulkerson said, and projected that sales will continue to increase in the coming year for the nearly 65year-old real estate company. Star Cinemas’ owner Phil Roberts said he has completed updates to the cinema this summer with digital projectors, two theaters with 3-D capabilities, and updated to 5.1 Dolby digital surround sound. Future renovations

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Page 10 • The Times-Gazette Dec. 28 and County Shopper Dec. 30 2012

Progress 2013 Organizations: continued from Page 6 … that is until a special little girl and her family gave the group the boost it needed one month before the June camp. “Financially, we were able to come out of the year successfully, but at the beginning, we were worried because we want to make sure every child can go to camp,” Allen said. “Then, one girl and her family donated $10,000 to SATH. We were struggling and I don’t want to turn any child away. Then the mother called me (about the donation). At a board meeting, everyone cried. Everyone knew how much we were struggling. It relieved so much pressure on us because we knew everything would be OK. “It’s a success story. This is how important camp is to every child. This community, this little girl, helped us have a successful season.” SATH holds a Super Bowl Chili Cookoff in January, Sweetheart Charity Ball in February, a charity auction in March, Celebrity Golf Tournament in May, a car show in June and Kamp Dovetail is held in the middle of June. “We stay very busy, as you can see, up until camp,” Allen said. “We’re hoping to have success at all these events. Without the support we receive from this community, we would not be able to operate. We appreciate the support so much.” The Highland County Senior Citizen Center has been busier than ever this year, putting on special events like Dinner with Mark Twain, Dinner with Elvis, a Hee-Haw show, Halloween indoor trick

or treating and haunted house and Breakfast with Santa/Winter Wonderland. “I feel we’ve been able to meet the mental, emotional and physical needs of our members and the community,” senior center director Mechell Frost said. “We have more referral services, like Seniors helping Seniors, Home Helpers and Meals on Wheels, than ever. We’ve had more activities, more events and more volunteers reaching out to more people. “We’ve kept everything people love and have just added new things to get more interest than before.” Frost said that the center hopes to continue expanding its referral services, get more information than ever to its seniors, and has a fantastic 2013 tour program coming up. “We’re keeping the old favorites but bringing in new, exciting things,” she said. “We’re going to strive to make great friendships and be a great place to be in 2013.” The Highland District Hospital Foundation was formed to promote community involvement in the hospital’s future. It encourages community involvement to help ensure that the hospital meets the needs of those it serves. “Given the economic circumstances, we have still been very blessed (this year),” Foundation Director Cathy Jones said, adding that she feels many people in the community continue to support the foundation’s causes because almost every family has been touched by the hospital in some way. Foundation members regularly meet with the hospital’s board to discuss the needs of the hospital in order to better

serve the community. The ideas are taken back to the foundation board, which decides what to pursue and raises the funds to provide the need. At the beginning of 2012, the foundation decided to make a digital mammography unit a reality for the community. The total cost is $325,000 and half of that amount was obtained through an ARC grant. Jones said the foundation hopes to have the unit up and running in the spring or summer of 2013 and will continue to seek funding to fulfill the foundation’s financial obligation. Jones said the group’s firstever golf outing in July, a 5K run in October and November’s gala were all very successful fundraising events. Highland County Community Action Organization celebrated 47 years of service in Highland County in 2012, and administered over $5.4 million in local, state and federal funding. The organization currently has 90 employees and provides services to over 20 percent of the population of Highland County. Julia Wise, executive director of Highland County Community Action Organization, Inc., said, “Even through 2012 was filled with much uncertainty due to the federal budget crisis, the organization has continued to diversify and grow and meet the ever changing needs of our population. I credit this to the dedication of staff and board members who believe in the mission of the organization and helping people and changing lives.” Even though unemployment numbers are down, the organization still sees many new customers coming into the office

in need of assistance in a variety of areas, Wise said. Many have never had to seek assistance previously. But Wise said the staff remains committed to trying to meet current needs as well as see if there are other areas which they might be able to assist. “While the number of residents which seek services has continued to increase, the programs and services offered have grown as well,” Wise said. “This is due to the dedication of staff being committed to helping people and changing lives and our board’s willingness to let us diversify as the needs in our community change. Many people get our organization confused thinking we are a county agency. We are not. We are a private, nonprofit corporation.” The annual Ernie Blankenship Telethon for the Highland County Society for Children and Adults raised $20,000 more than the 2011 total. The 40th annual telethon held in March raised more than $143,000 to help local people with medical costs that they cannot afford. During the telethon, 286 donors gave money, fewer than last year. However, this year's telethon still raised thousands more than last year's. "So basically, the people who gave, gave more," said board member Rocky Coss. "We saw businesses and organizations that increased their donations substantially, among them the Eagles and Rotary." All donations are used by the society to provide assistance and services to Highland County children and adults who have extraordinary expenses for necessary medical treatment, transportation, equipment and other health

care devices. The society works in conjunction with other local government and private agencies to provide financial assistance to Highland County residents who have medical expenses not covered by insurance or other programs. New facilities have opened around the county to help minister to the needs of local residents. The Good News Gathering opened its new facility on the southern edge of Hillsboro in September, more than 14 years after a handful of people started a church with hopes of attracting people who didn't normally attend services. "There was a core group of about 19 people that just had a dream of designing a church for people who wouldn't be caught dead in a church," pastor Jeff Lyle told the TimesGazette in September. "We wanted to create an environment where they would be comfortable in a Christian setting." Today, Lyle said Good News has a regular Sunday attendance of about 375. Also, the Greenfield Area Christian Center is in the process of getting its new facility, that boasts a gymnasium, ready. According to the ministries’ clothing director Judy Schmidt, the exterior of the building is done but workers are still completing work inside. The youth group New Directions will share the building with GACC, which has serviced almost 700 visitors this year. It has given away almost 2,000 Walmart-size bags of clothes, 150 adult winter coats, and is giving food vouchers away for Christmas to its most needy clients.

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The Times-Gazette Dec. 28 and County Shopper Dec. 30 2012 • Page 11

Progress 2013 Southern State: 2012 has been a year for reintroducing ourselves

Highland District Hospital linked to life squad for improved heart attack detection and treatment In rural areas such as Highland County, speed is critical when someone suffers a heart attack,” says Tim Parry, Vice President

Highland District Hospital becomes GE Healthcare Regional Show site for nuclear medicine camera In August, a new nuclear medicine scanner was installed at Highland District Hospital. This new technology delivers excellent image quality and provides diagnostic confidence to our physicians with proven impact on patient management. The Infinia scanner gives doctors information about both the nature and the precise location of the disease, all in a single exam that is quick and comfortable for patients. “This is an advancement for our nuclear medicine department,” said Brad Storts, RT, Radiology

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Highland District Hospital is pleased to bring this technology to our community. It is part of our commitment to providing high-quality patient care. Highland District Hospital has joined Ohio State’s stroke telemedicine network, bringing rapid access to advanced stroke care to our community. When a suspected stroke patient arrives to Highland District Hospital’s Emergency Department, a “stroke alert” is activated at both Ohio State and Highland District Hospital, which mobilizes a team of stroke experts who, through the use of telemetry and real-time testing and patient interview, can help the care team at Highland District Hospital determine the best treatment option for the patient. Research published in the Sept. 14, 2011 issue of Neurology. The medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, suggests that telestroke is cost-effective for rural hospitals that don’t have a neurologist or stroke specialist on staff around the clock and provides greater access to the clot-busting treatment, tPA. Ohio State’s stroke team, which includes critical care physicians and vascular neurosurgeons, is available any time, day or night. Michael Turner, MD, emergency department medical director at Highland District Hospital, states that “the window of time for successfully treating stroke victims is short, usually less than three hours. The use of real-time technology will save more lives in our community.” In addition, Ohio State’s neurology and neurosurgery program is ranked by U.S. News & World Report magazine as among the best in the country. Highland District Hospital is proud to partner with Ohio State to improve the quality and efficiency of care provided to our community.

of nursing. “Rapid patient assessment is needed so that medical teams are alerted before the patient ever arrives at the hospital. And expediting the transfer of patients is what our new STEMI program is all about.” STEMI (SegmenT Elevated Myocardial Infarction) is a type of acute heart attack that can be fatal if not treated as quickly as possible. To make the program work, the HDH Foundation funded the purchase of advanced EKG technology. This equipment enables EMS squads to perform EKGs on-site and electronically transmit the information to the hospital. An ER physician then evaluates the EKG to determine if the patient is having a heart attack and the severity of the attack. If the diagnosis is a STEMI requiring sophisticated intervention, an air transport helicopter can be flown to the patient’s location or met at the hospital. With one call, the information is transmitted to a cardiologist at The Cardiology Center of Cincinnati or Ohio Heart and Vascular Center, Bethesda North or The Christ Hospital. “We stepped forward to set up this partnership,” says Parry, “and we’re all working together to have better patient outcomes. Faster response and evaluation means restoring blood circulation and getting oxygen to an injured heart more quickly. That benefits our patients and that’s the quality of service we all want.”

NEW EVENTS We proudly welcomed the Cincinnati Opera to our Hillsboro campus, as well as a theatrical performance of “The Hillsboro Story.” The Cincinnati Opera presented a reduced touring version of “Porgy and Bess,” which packed the house and featured the best-loved songs from the opera, evocative sets and costumes, and an accomplished cast of five young opera singers. “The Hillsboro Story” was written by local native Susan Banyas and celebrated a powerful civil rights drama that unfolded in our community in the 1950s. Celebrated “Knockemstiff” author Donald Ray

Compassion • Dignity • Excellence • Justice •

Life • Compassion • Dignity • Excellence • Justice •

Submitted by HDH

NEW CAMPUS We’re making steady progress on plans for our newest campus on a 63-acre parcel of land near Mount Orab in Brown County. BHDP Architecture is in the process of completing the schematic design phase and the required review by the State Architect’s office. Groundbreaking for the two-story facility is scheduled for June 2013, and the campus will be open for classes August 2014.

Excellence • Justice • Service • Sacredness of

Highland District Hospital collaborates with Ohio State’s Wexner Medical Center to offer advanced stroke care

• Electromechanical Engineering (associate degree) – Three local institutions (SSCC, Dayton Power and Light and Manchester High School) partnered to begin offering this new degree in Manchester in Adams County. General education courses, such as math, English and physics, are offered early evenings at the high school, while all technical courses are offered a few minutes away at DP&L’s Generation Center. • Criminal Justice Administration (bachelor’s degree) – Through a new partnership with Franklin University, we have created a pathway for students to complete their bachelor degrees by transferring their SSCC associate’s degree to Franklin and can take these classes in a face-to-face format at the SSCC Fayette Campus in Washington C.H. • Truck Driving (licensure) – Through new partnerships with the Ohio Strategic Training Center, Belmont College and the Delaware Area Career Center, the SSCC Truck Driving Academy is now offered at 10 statewide locations. Students can select either the four-week or eight-weekend program to earn their CDL.

Service • Sacredness of Life • Compassion • Dignity •

with Boston Reed College, we now offer dental assistant and veterinary assistant training on SSCC’s Central Campus in We did it. Hillsboro. The dental assistant training is a Convert to semesters? Check. Rebrand 10-week program with classes held on the college? Check. Monday and Wednesday evenings, while Sign new partnerships? Add new the veterinary assistant training is a fivedegrees? Earn awesome honors? Check, week program with classes held on check, check! Saturdays. If change is good, then 2012 has been • Aviation Maintenance (associate fantastic for Southern State Community degree) – Through a new partnership with College. It’s been a year for reintroducing ourselves among those who may remember Great Oaks Career Campuses, we will offer an FAA-certified associate degree in a community college from years past, but Aviation Technology. The new degree is aren’t fully aware of the advancements designed as a six-semester track to be comwe’ve been making. A year for repositioning ourselves by understanding what makes pleted in two years. Successful completion of the program could lead to employment at us different. Below, we invite you to read an FAA-certified repair station or about all the changes we’ve made in 2012 airline/airfreight company, in aircraft or alone. aerospace manufacturing, or as an aviation We have gone through many changes, maintenance technician, sales and service but one thing will never change: our commitment to our students. And that brings us technician. • Food Processing & Technology (assoto our greatest accomplishment of the year. In June, we congratulated our largest gradu- ciate degree) – In collaboration with several ating class ever, proudly conferring degrees local companies who outlined a need for employees with academic training in the and certificates to 596 well-deserving stufield of food processing and technology, we dents. Here’s looking forward to 2013 and announced the launch of this brand new watching hundreds more check something associate degree. Designed to be completed off their own bucket lists — getting a colin four semesters, the Food Processing & lege degree. Technology degree can offer vast opportuniNEW DEGREES & PARTNERSHIPS ties for our graduates. Our research ranked Ohio as fifth in the nation in overall food • Dental Assistant, Veterinary Assistant processing. (certificate) – Through a new partnership Submitted by SSCC

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Page 12 • The Times-Gazette Dec. 28 and County Shopper Dec. 30 2012

Progress 2013 SSCC: continued from Page 11 Pollock and Montpelier archaeologist Matt Reeves were also welcomed to campus for special presentations open to the public. If you missed these events, stay tuned – 2013’s calendar looks just as promising. NEW BRANDING Just a few short months ago, we proudly unveiled a new look. In part, this was a bold step toward bringing life into a dated marketing image. We ventured to determine what it is that distinguishes us and we learned that our success is

fully grounded in our ability to connect with students in unprecedented ways. It was clear that students’ meaningful and engaging experiences with faculty and staff put Southern State in a league of its own. Our new logo, new color palette, new website and new campaigns all reflect what our students love most about us – our ability to provide an affordable, accessible, high quality education in a friendly community setting. NEW ACADEMIC CALENDAR Our fall term started a little early this year as we made the switch from

NEW TRUSTEE In July it was announced that Michael P. Pell of Adams County had been appointed to the college’s board of trustees. A graduate of West Union High School, Pell earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from Morehead State University. He has worked

Shown above is an architect’s rendering of Southern State Community College’s newest campus location in Brown County. in the banking industry since 1983, most recently as president and CEO of

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First State Bank in Winchester. At the same time, Paul Hall of Brown County was reappointed, having already completed two terms in service to the college. The owner of Paul Hall & Associates, an insurance company in Mount Orab, Hall serves as the director of evangelism and shepherding at the Georgetown Church of Christ, chairman of the Republican Central Committee, as well as on the board for the Kentucky Friends of 4-H Foundation and Mercy Hospital. NEW HONORS • Nursing Program – The 2012 graduates of the nursing program all passed the NCLEX licensure exam on their first attempts. They join the ranks of the practical nursing program graduates who have earned the same first-time pass rate honor. • Childcare – The PatriTots Learning Center (for kids 18 months to 5 years) earned a 100-percent com-

pliance inspection rating as well as a Two-Star Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) award from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. • Retention Rates – In an article published by CNN Money, Southern State’s completion and transfer rates were identified as the highest among Ohio’s community colleges. • College President – Dr. Kevin Boys, SSCC president, was appointed by Board of Regents Chancellor Jim Petro to the Complete College Ohio Task Force, charged with submitting recommendations to dramatically improve Ohio’s college completion success. • Faculty Members – The Southwestern Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE) recognized three faculty members for excellence in teaching. SSCC instructors Chyane Collins, David Garippa and Ken Holliday were honored at the 2012 Teaching and Learning Conference.

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