Loveland, Ohio – Calling all student-athletes, coaches, parents, and fans! The Eastern Cincinnati Conference (ECC) recently announced that they will be going through somewhat of a league transformation. In addition to adding three new schools, Little Miami, Winton Woods, and Lebanon, to the ECC for the 2020-2021 sports season they are also looking to add a new conference slogan.
The ECC stated that they would love to bring more awareness and reach to the conference’s brand so the conference decided to have students, coaches, and fans submit slogan ideas. The ECC selected the top 4 slogan ideas and posted them on the ECC website so that anyone and everyone could vote on their favorite slogan! Below are the top 4 slogan selections.
1. Engage. Compete. Conquer
2. Excite. Challenge. Compete.
3. Eastern Cincinnati Conference … top-level competition with community-based values.
4. Engagement. Competition. Community. We are the ECC!
The Slogan Contest allows voters to submit their slogan selection as many times as they want up until Friday, June 26th, 2020. The new slogan will be released in early July. If you would like to participate in the Slogan Contest click the link below to submit your vote!
Mihaela Manova is now a Loveland High School Graduate. She joined Loveland Magazine as an Intern in September of 2019 and was soon promoted to be the Editor for our “Covering Climate Now” series. She will study journalism at Miami University.
Here is Loveland High School’s 2020 Graduation (my graduation) in photos and videos – you can experience the whole 11-hour day!
By: Mihaela Manova
Loveland, Ohio – In the year where all schools have closed and many are awaiting a graduation of some sort, Loveland High School has managed to show to its seniors and their respective family members that Covid-19 will not dictate the end to their academic careers. Here is a piece through the point of view of a 2020 graduate.
Where to begin… this year has proved to us, the student body, our limits and our achievements, the mostly good and the mostly bad. Say you were an athlete competing in the beginning of the year or a straight-A student who dedicated their time to their studies, or you could be even both for all we know. You possess qualities that make you stand out and even though you may not know most of the time, many people see that about you. To the class of 2020, don’t fret, the best years are coming ahead.
Before graduation in May of 2020
In the last few days before graduation, I would assume we had the same thoughts crossing our minds. What would these days have looked like if we were in school? Would I be as happy as I am now? Will I be satisfied when I receive my diploma, even when it is placed into my hands gently and in a sterile manner?
Many, (from what I have observed), do not see our current situation as a stop to their plans. While following protocol, these people have decided to make the best of it, even with the distance that comes between them.
With gratitude towards the health care workers that are around us (and around the world), who are parents, aunts, uncles, and more, it was a sight to see the families coming together in our school, to see a personal milestone be achieved.
(Click on any photo to see it enlarged)
Ella Kiley
Carson Sarver
Mitchell McManis
Allison Rountree
(left to right) Joey Jeffcott, Jack Jeffcott, and Brady Jeffcott
Erin Dickman
So how did our day proceed? Here is a type of journal entry that may suffice, with, of course, 2020 vision.
For starters – graduating Senior students were categorized into time slots for each family to have a personal experience (at a distance) with usually the time being around 30 min – 1 hour depending on the traffic.
The high school itself showcased a labyrinth for the cars that would soon lineup, tape making borders for each car to snake around until it found itself ready to go into the school. While waiting you can see a range of cars decorated with festive balloons and markings often saying “Go Tigers!” or “Graduate 2020” in colors of orange and black. Others would have cars following one another with family members anxiously awaiting their turn.
While the wait was long, it gave time to observe the atmosphere as it is a (hopefully) once in a lifetime spectacle of following strict protocol. You could look out the car window and see the people who were soon going to come in, properly dressed in their orange and black togas with facial masks to match.
When it was our turn to park in the parking lot, kind men with masks spoke of the directions in parking, getting out, and entry to the building. The entrance to our high school included a blown up tiger head that engulfed every individual that walked in, making our last walk inside be memorable.
Staff by the entrance were ready to take pictures of the graduate and their family, and once walking into the building you would hear “Hello!” followed by an excited “Congratulations!”
There was no lack of positivity or hints of melancholy anywhere. Once inside the building, each family would wait for another to finish going through all of the stations. The first station was a table with a quick spell-check of the name of the graduate alongside an award for academic excellence this semester if you were excellent.
More greetings ensued as we moved on to the final moment that we were waiting for. With smiles underneath the masks but highlights in all the eyes, it was finally time to hand it off to a family member and walk solitary to the podium leading to the auditorium.
In front of you, principal Peggy Johnson would lead you to the hidden entrance of the podium while behind you, was your family recording every step of the way. In the auditorium, massive posters and lighting donned a dramatic feel to this ceremony, as there were two types of cameras ready for you. One was the video recording of you walking across, and another was for a professional photo when you “turn” the tassel.
Rosa Karl
William Gibbs-Heard
Claire Wallace (2020)
Claire Wallace (young)
Samantha James and Emily Zirkelbach
(left to right) Calloway Hefner, Ben Russ, Lexi Duff, Greyson Hensley, Christian Morckel
Natalie Drury and Kirstin Thomas
With the moment upon you, you hear your full name announced, so you walk across to the far end of the stage, noticing that every seat wore printed pictures of the staff and teachers. This gesture brings a smile to your face when you know how much these people wanted to be there and how long it took for each portrait to get designed, printed, and taped on the seats.
After stepping off and a rush of pride and adrenaline is expected as you have finally done it! You would now put on your “2020 Mask” again and wait for further instruction and clearing of the cafeteria. With your family, you would go to the cafeteria hearing more “Congratulations” and the dreadful returning of the toga (which you secretly want to keep).
Returning the toga, you immediately get a packet of your diploma and a booklet of all the student names and achievements.
Lastly, you break through the doors of the cafeteria, with more felicitations from a staff member that follows the question, “So what are you doing after this?” as you wait. I wasn’t sure if it was meant to be answered for now or for later but I was happy knowing that good things await…
A note:
Speaking for the class of 2020 and myself we would like to say big, big thank you’s to our school, the organizers, the staff, the people outside helping, and the teachers and volunteers. Without your efforts we would have never had a great graduation like this, so we thank you for adapting to these measures and staying positive for our day!
And we also cannot forget to thank the people working on the front lines and in hospitals at the moment, your efforts will not be forgotten in battling this epidemic. BIG THANK YOU TO ALL!
Sincerely,
Mihaela
Watch these videos of the 2020 Commencement Ceremony that were produced by Loveland High School ( (videography and digital production); Shawn Miller (lighting and sound production); Lane Aylor, Hayden Floyd, David Knapp and John Lape (technical assistants)
As we entered the School
Welcome by Olivia VonDeylen
Carson Sarver Class President
Senior Choir members perform Irish Blessing
Sophia Dillhoff Salutatorian
Ashley George Valedictory Address
National Anthem Tribute by Chamber Orchestra and Show Choirs
Principal Peggy Johnson
Superintendent Dr. Amy Crouse and School Board President Kathy Lorenz
Each student receiving their diploma
Below is the entire video of the LHS Graduation that was produced by the school.
To see each graduate cross the stage drag the slider to the 28:52 minute mark.
The entire video of the Commencement exercise
Also read these stories about the Class with 2020 Vision…
David Miller is the Editor and Publisher of Loveland Magazine
“God has given us a spirit of expectation to bring the community together.”
– Brittany Gault
by David Miller
Loveland, Ohio – The death of George Floyd hit Desmon Gault hard. I caught up with him and Brittany Gault Monday evening when they finished their evening Unity Prayer Walk through the neighborhoods surrounding the Prince of Peace Church on Lebanon Road.
Concerned over the death of George Floyd and wanting to be a symbol of healing and prayer-filled hope to the Loveland community, Desmon has been organizing evening prayer walks since last Saturday.
Floyd died in police custody on May 25 in the Powderhorn community of Minneapolis, Minnesota. While Floyd was handcuffed and lying face down on a city street during an arrest, Derek Chauvin, a white American Minneapolis police officer, kept his knee on the right side of Floyd’s neck for 8 minutes and 46 seconds; according to the criminal complaint against Chauvin, 2 minutes and 53 seconds of that time occurred after Floyd became unresponsive.
Desmon wrote on FaceBook last Wednesday leading up to his decision to organize the Unity Prayer Walks.
I could barely sleep last night. My mind just wouldn’t turn off. The extreme thoughts of what if that was me, my Dad, my son, my nephews, a family member or friend; flooded my thoughts and emotions. Far too often these thoughts have filtered through my mind through the many events that have unfolded in my lifetime.
We live in a time full of uncertainty. In the year 2020, who would’ve ever imagine we would be fighting the same fight of old. Yes I agree we are ages ahead of the racial tension of old, but yet so far away from the peace and forgiveness we so desperately need as a nation.
Maybe we’re closer than I think. Maybe I’m feeding into the agenda of the media and the powers that be. Maybe I’ve let the perception of the nationwide injustice or the personal experiences of racism I witness in my lifetime, blind my eyes of what actually is. Or maybe I’m just finally awaken to the fact that America will never change.
Many will say we are better than we once were… But systematically are we truly? Though I love the Lord with all my Mind, Body and Spirit, how will that stop someone from using their free will of mistaking me for the wrong person which transpires to me being that latest headline on the news.
Maybe I’m just thinking to much into it, or maybe… just maybe this is the heart wrenching reality of our America.
These were just my thoughts last night…I prayed and finally went to sleep.
Watch this LOVELAND MAGAZINE TV interview with the Gaults to find out what was on their hearts and why they are walking in Loveland. I spoke to this deeply religious couple immediately after Desmon prayed for those who walked with them. I also asked the couple what they would say to “nonbelievers” and asked why the death of George Floyd has made such an impact on everyday people in the Loveland Community.
Desmon said that he hopes that he and his wife can be an inspiration to someone amid this trial in our city and our nation. “When I heard about the death of George Floyd my heart wanted to turn hard and bitter and I wanted to be angry,” he explained. So it was around last Thursday evening he decided to do something to be “impactful to his family, his son, and his daughter.”
Because we are an interracial couple – what can we do to make our voice be known in all of this –– this fog that’s going on in this world? – Desmon Gault
Brittany said, “If anyone wants to join us we’re going to continue this and we just ask God that he’s going to help us lead when others don’t know how to lead. God has given us a spirit of expectation to bring the community together.”
They will be walking again Tuesday beginning at 5:45 PM, meeting at the intersection of West Loveland and North Lebanon Road.
Loveland, Ohio – The talent in the community of Loveland and within the city’s school district cannot be denied! Over the past decade, there have been many LHS students and Loveland community members that have won both state and national awards for their talents. On May 18th, it was announced that another talented LHS student would be recognized for two pieces of artwork. Lilly Rohling, who will be a Senior at LHS was notified that her two artworks, “Shower Frenzy” (a colored pencil drawing) and “Inclination” (a video) were selected for the 2020 Ohio Governor’s Youth Art Exhibition. 300 winners were selected from 15 regions in the state of Ohio.
According to the press release sent out by Susanne Quigley, the Information Officer of Loveland Schools, “The exhibition, now in its 50th year, is open to all of Ohio’s 1,112 public and private high schools and dedicated to the educational and artistic advancement of talented youth in the state. The purpose is to provide budding artists with opportunities to advance their talent through scholarships and entering their work in a competition. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, no official awards ceremony – or actual exhibit – will take place this year.”
The Executive Director of the Ohio Governor’s Youth Art Exhibition, Thad Ricker also shared his thoughts on the COVID-19 pandemic and how it affected 2020 student-artists.
Loveland artist Lilly Rohling
“This was not the year that any of us had planned. One of the highlights of my school year is having the honor of recognizing Ohio’s talented young artists in person,” Ricker explained, “My heart is heavy for the 2020 student-artists who were selected for an exhibition that was never hung.”
Here at Loveland Magazine, we decided that we wanted the community of Loveland to get to know Lilly Rohling a little better so our very talented intern, Claire Beseler, orchestrated a few personalized questions to ask her. Below is our one-on-one written interview with Miss Lilly!
Please tell us about yourself!
Lilly I’m finishing up my junior year at Loveland and have pretty much taken every art class including photography, sculpture, graphics, etc. It’s what I’m most passionate about.
How long have you been pretty serious about your art?
Lilly I started taking it seriously when I was about 13 and I’ve worked on it every day since:) Even if it’s just doing one small thing to keep my mind in a creative spot.
Have any Loveland teachers inspired you and your artwork?
Lilly Going into my senior year at Loveland I’ve had every teacher in the art department for at least one class and all of them have inspired me to better myself and have shown me through their own passion that no matter where you are in life, art is something you can always have as something that is special to you.
What are your future plans after LHS?
Lilly Hopefully studying in some sort of design program at an art school.
What are your future life goals?
Lilly I’ll always have art as a way to express myself, and career-wise the dream is to be anywhere that allows me to think creatively, which I’m thinking right now will either be graphic design/illustration of some sort but I’m just going to see how things unfold in college and be open to whatever opportunities I come across. Mostly I just want to keep art in my life as a way to connect to myself and others.
What do you find most rewarding about creating art?
Lilly The process of thinking creatively and finding a way to communicate a part of myself in an interesting and unique way is what is most rewarding to me. I don’t worry much about the final product because if the process of doing it was an honest expression of myself, then the final product will reflect that, at least to me. It’s rewarding just to have the release of putting part of myself into a physical work of art.
Can you tell us about the two pieces of art that were selected to be featured? Which is your favorite piece?
Lilly Even though the still life took me weeks, I like the video because the idea is more personal to me. I was experimenting with stop motion for a class assignment and then thought it would be fun if I put two stop motion videos on top of each other. Then I started playing around with how the videos interacted and played off each other and it gave the project a different meaning. The process of trying something new and seeing where it takes you is what’s rewarding to me so I would say the video is my favorite. The still life is a fun capture of shower/bathroom products of mine that shows with vibrant colors the “frenzy” that can go into getting ready for the day.
Even though she titled her still-life “Shower Frenzy”, Inclination is quite the “Frenzy” too!
CONGRATULATIONS LILLY! On behalf of Loveland Magazine and the community of Loveland we would like to express how proud we are of Lilly! We can’t wait to see what the future holds for her and her incredible artwork!
Columbus, Ohio – OHSAA released some excellent news for Ohio High School Football teams on Wednesday when they announced their Board of Directors approved expanding the playoff qualifiers from 8 teams to 12 teams per region.
OHSAA’s Board voted 9-0 to expand the OHSAA Football playoffs to 12 teams per region starting in the 2021 season. The expansion was proposed by the Ohio High School Football Coaches Association. OHSAA’s Director of Communications, Tim Stried, sent out a press release explaining how the new football playoff expansion will work.
“During the first round of the playoffs, the top four seeds will have a bye, while the No. 12 seed will play at the No. 5 seed, No. 11 at No. 6, No. 10 at No. 7 and No. 9 at No. 8. In the second round, the No. 1 seed will play the winner of the 8 vs. 9 game; the No. 2 seed will play the winner of 6 vs. 11; the No. 3 seed will play the winner of 7 vs. 10 and the No. 4 seed will play the winner of 5 vs. 12.
The expansion will increase the number of football playoff qualifiers from 224 to 336. Last year there were 709 schools in Ohio that played 11-man football. Football is the only OHSAA team sport in which not every school qualifies for the postseason.
‘We still have details to work out regarding the format and specific season dates, but this vote by the Board gives us the green light to finalize those details for 2021,’ said Beau Rugg, Senior Director of Officiating and Sport Management for the OHSAA and the Association’s football administrator. ‘We are thankful for the Board’s support on this proposal, which will bring all the great things of playoff football to 112 additional schools and communities.’
Rugg also noted that the football finals in 2021 are expected to end during the same weekend as previously scheduled (Dec. 2-5). Schools will still be permitted to play 10 regular-season contests.
The higher seeded teams will have the opportunity to host their playoff games during the first and second rounds of the playoffs.
Loveland Tigers vs. Lebanon in September of 2016
The OHSAA football playoffs began in 1972 when only 12 schools qualified for the playoffs (four schools in each of three classes). Expansion first came in 1980 when the OHSAA changed to five divisions with eight teams each (40 total qualifiers). A sixth division was added in 1994 (96 total qualifiers) and the number of qualifiers was increased to eight schools per region in 1999 (192 total qualifiers). A seventh division was added in 2013 to bring the number of qualifiers to 224.”
Stay tuned for the latest Ohio and Loveland sports news!
Loveland Magazine is one of the 400 news outlets worldwide, with a combined audience of over 2 billion people “Covering Climate Now”, a global journalism initiative committed to bringing more and better coverage to the defining story of our time.
The initiative, was co-founded by The Nation and Columbia Journalism Review
Mihaela Manova is “Covering Climate Now” in Loveland, Ohio as an editor for Loveland Magazine
Today’s article concentrates on the beauty of the nature around us; even if we are currently staying in isolation. In Stephen McClanahan’s article, he reveals an entry about a beautiful variety of bird species and their complexities.
By Stephen McClanahan on May 22, 2020
Stephen McClanahan is retired from P&G and now active in environmental advocacy, search/rescue and emergency medical/disaster response. He lives in Miami Township.
Have you ever seen a more beautiful creature than a blue bird? The blue is beyond blue; this one moved into one of the nesting boxes in the yard and has just emerged to take flight.
Or how about this guy…a red-headed woodpecker? He has visited us for the past few days, so we are hoping there is a nest not far. His hood is the deepest of reds you can imagine.
Red-headed woodpecker
Or several other amazing creatures of flight?
Female Red-breasted GrosbeakNorthern Flicker with an attitude
Gold Finch feeding frenzy.
Morning doves eating what the finches throw them.
Mallards
The Mallards above are nick-named Charles and Verna by our children when they were younger, they have been coming to our little back yard pond for years.
I am thinking either a red-tailed or red-shouldered hawk. (If someone knows better, please educate me.)
These winged creatures and many, many more, are all in one small corner of the earth. Jays, wrens, nuthatches, sparrows, hairy and downy woodpeckers, red-bellied woodpeckers, robins, cardinals, house finches, ruby-throated hummingbirds, grackles to name a few.
A barn swallow was out front late afternoon a few days ago; his darting and jerking and hair-pinned turns in flight left me wanting to break the chains of gravity and join him in his celebration of life. Watch them closely, sincerely and you come away amazed.
As they go about their daily rounds, you will see a host of creatures spending their time eating, nesting and much more. Their singing and chirping are nothing less than a concert playing of Spring from Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons. They will argue over something but settle it in minutes and move on (humans should be so fortunate). Up with the earliest rays of the sun, disappearing just before sunset, they move with the rhythm of the day.
How they manage to fly in, around, under, over, in-between leaves and branches and trees and each other is a feat of engineering to say the least. With the coming of spring, the gold finches morph from a dull to an almost fluorescent yellow – stunning! There is a cardinal nest just outside a window in one of bushes; these little creatures knew where and how to build a nest sheltered from the weather.
Nature has somehow encoded this knowledge into their brain.
Nature has somehow encoded this knowledge into their brain. The female patiently laid and sat on her eggs for about 12 days or so and as of yesterday, there are 3-4 new cardinals in our world. The male and female are trading off time to feed and guard and keep warm their brood. When you approach too close to try to snap a photograph, she looks at you and you can tell what she is thinking: a step closer and you are dead, mister. The force is strong with them.
These are just a few of the rewards granted when you give nature a bit of space and time and peace. Several years ago, we began the task of converting a portion of the manicured back yard to its original form: a little wild place. Trees, bushes, ground covers, flowers, weeds and more. As it grows, other critters move in as well. Squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, racoons, an occasional fox, deer, opossums. After an evening rain, the tree frogs serenade with such gusto, you laugh out loud which only eggs them on.
We are fortunate to live in Paxton Woods
We are fortunate to live in Paxton Woods; many neighboring homes have lots of mature trees. This provides more of a continuous suburban forest so essential to wildlife. Rather than being an island, our little patch of wild only adds to what is here.
Lessons learned from all this: nature will heal and rebound if given a fair chance. You must care enough to try. There is power in individual actions; there is greater power in the collective.
And while I was penning this short piece, the red-headed woodpecker visited again, as did a hawk, but the jays caused such a ruckus, it moved on to quieter hunting ground.
Fortress Obetz, a 50-acre multi-purpose complex on the Southeast side of Columbus, committed to hosting the OHSAA Cross Country Championships for the next five years.
by Cassie Mattia
Columbus, Ohio – Over the past several weeks many Ohio High School athletes and coaches have been awaiting updates on when they can start up team instruction and competitions again. Last week OHSAA provided several updates on both future competitions and the no-contact ban for Ohio’s High Schools giving hope to many dedicated coaches and athletes across the state.
Loveland High School Athletic Director Brian Conaster said that he received the up-date from OHSAA but is proceeding cautiously before making decisions or announcements to his coaches and athletes. “I am waiting for more clarification and guidance from the OHSAA and other state and local bodies later this week. Once I have this, I can then make a more informed statement,” he said.
New venue for State CC Championships
Fortress Obetz is a multi-purpose sports and entertainment complex in Obetz, Ohio. Its bleacher system holds 6,500 people. Including standing room for events such as concerts, Fortress Obetz can hold nearly 20,000 people. It opened in 2017 on the site of the former Columbus Motor Speedway. Google image of Fortress Obetz
On April 29th, OHSAA announced that Fortress Obetz, a 50-acre multi-purpose complex on the Southeast side of Columbus, committed to hosting the OHSAA Cross Country Championships for the next five years. Last Wednesday, Director of Communications, Tim Stried sent out a press release describing the Fortress Obetz facility.
“The Ohio High School Athletic Association cross country state championships are moving to Fortress Obetz, a 50-acre multi-purpose sports complex with a 6,500-seat grandstand located in Obetz on the southeast side of Columbus, OHSAA Executive Director Jerry Snodgrass announced Wednesday.
Fortress Obetz opened in 2017 on the former site of the Columbus Motor Speedway. The racing that will now take place there in early November represents one of the largest high school cross country events in the country, with more than 11,000 fans.
Jerry Snodgrass gives the State Champion Div. I Women’s Soccer trophy to Loveland in this 2017 Loveland Magazine file photo
Of significance, much of the course will be visible from the 6,500-seat grandstands, which will lead to a greater experience for fans and participants.
‘We can’t wait for our student-athletes and Ohio’s entire cross country community to experience the state championships at Fortress Obetz,’ said Snodgrass. ‘This facility is so impressive, from the course layout for the competitors to be more spectator-friendly for the fans and we are thrilled to sign a five-year agreement. We would like to thank National Trail Raceway for hosting the state championships for the last nine years and doing an outstanding job as our host.’
Fortress Obetz was built to host sporting events, concerts, festivals, and more. It was the home of the Ohio Machine professional lacrosse team from 2017-19. The facility has five video boards, concessions, restrooms, and a huge parking lot.
‘The Village of Obetz is extremely proud and excited to partner with the OHSAA,’ said Steve Adams, National Director of Athletic Operations and Facilities Promotion. ‘We feel our Memorial Park and the Fortress is perfectly suited for the OHSAA Cross Country State Tournament. We have created a safe and challenging course for the runners and kept the spectator experience in mind as well.’
The grandstand includes 1,100 flip-down seats, 2,000 bench-back seats, and 3,400 bleacher seats.
OHSAA Executive Director Jerry Snodgrass
Scioto Downs, located just south of Columbus, hosted the OHSAA cross country state championships from 1985 through 2010 before the facility added a casino. National Trail Raceway in Hebron, 20 miles east of Columbus, hosted the state championships from 2011 through 2019.”
#howicompete campaign
On May 5th, OHSAA released that they would be launching a campaign in collaboration with Allied Organizations called #howicompete. This campaign is meant to encourage student-athletes to train on their own at home while school facilities are closed. The #howicompete campaign will collect and promote messages and videos posted by OHSAA members, media, and allied organizations in hopes that both the messages and videos will inspire athletes to train as hard as they can during the remainder of the COVID-19 pandemic. The press release below from OHSAA goes more in-depth as to what the #howicompete campaign is and how it will benefit student-athletes.
“With school facilities shuttered, student-athletes are not permitted to gather together, therefore the #howicompete campaign encourages training on their own at home and with instructions sent electronically by their school coaches.
Student-athletes and teams are encouraged to set goals and compete against themselves and others while complying with social distancing guidelines. Content will be promoted through the OHSAA’s social media platforms (Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram) on its handle @OHSAASports.
‘The health and safety of all Ohioans is our top priority, but we also want student-athletes to stay focused and motivated to pick up where they left off when school sports return,’ said OHSAA Executive Director Jerry Snodgrass. ‘There are so many things that kids can do on their own or with their parents and siblings. Especially something like running and walking, which is a habit that can stay with them for a long time and keep them healthy as adults.’
Organizations such as the Ohio high school coaches associations, Ohio Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (OIAAA), and many more are asked to help encourage and promote content from student-athletes and tag the OHSAA using #howicompete. The OHSAA is also excited to share this campaign in support of the Greater Columbus Sports Commission, which is encouraging stories from competitors whose resilience is helping them Live Forward during this unprecedented health crisis.”
UD to host OHSAA women’s basketball tournaments
The recently renovated University of Dayton Arena.
On May 12th, OHSAA made the announcement that the Ohio High School Women’s Basketball State Tournament would be hosted at the recently renovated University of Dayton for the next three years. In the past, UD has not only hosted 125 NCAA Basketball Tournament games but the state of the art facility has also been the home court for March Madness more than any other athletic facility in the country! The Arena itself can seat up to 13,000 fans. OHSAA’s Executive Director Jerry Snodgrass expressed his excitement for the UD venue in the press release below.
“We are very excited to sign a three-year agreement for our member schools to experience UD Arena,’ Snodgrass said. ‘Southwest Ohio loves and supports basketball and the people at the University of Dayton have made it clear that they really want this state tournament on their campus. We believe that we have found a great home for the Women’s basketball state tournament.’
Photo by the University of Dayton
UD Arena recently completed a transformation project that was the largest construction effort in the University’s history. It is regarded as one of the nation’s premier basketball facilities to go along with fan support that consistently ranks among the best in college basketball.
‘We’re very proud that the OHSAA has entrusted us to host the women’s basketball state tournament at the University of Dayton Arena for the next three years,’ said Scott DeBolt, Senior Associate Athletics Director at the University of Dayton and Executive Director of UD Arena. ‘The same ingredients that make UD Arena the ideal place for the NCAA First Four – community support and excitement for the game of basketball, our facilities, staff, and tournament hosting experience – will help create lifelong memories for the young women who come to Dayton to play in the state tournament and their school communities.’
In the 45 years of the OHSAA girls basketball state tournament, it has been hosted at The Ohio State University 44 times (all but 1986 when it was hosted at the University of Akron). However, there are now a limited number of dates available to use OSU’s Jerome Schottenstein Center or St. John Arena in March.
The 2021 girls basketball state tournament is scheduled for March 11-13. The 2021 OHSAA boys basketball state tournament will be played at St. John Arena March 18-20. There is currently no host site in place for the men’s basketball state tournament in 2022.”
Loveland Magazine readers stay tuned for more of the latest 411 for both Loveland and Ohio sports!
Loveland, Ohio –Over the past few months, citizens all across Ohio have been searching for a light at the end of the tunnel. In the midst of the Stay At Home Order, many people have been doing what they can to spread positivity in light of all the negative situations regarding the COVID-19 outbreak. That bit of positivity made it’s way to Loveland Magazine’s front door in the form of OHSAA’s legendary Media Award!
In February Loveland Magazine’s Editor in Chief, David Miller was notified by OHSAA that he had been selected for the 2020 Media Award.
“In 1991, the Ohio High School Athletic Association initiated the Sportsmanship, Ethics, and Integrity Program. One aspect of the program was to honor those “special individuals” who bring great recognition to our high schools, coaches, and especially, our athletes through media’s different forms. Each of Ohio’s six athletic districts was asked to put a process in place to gather nominations of individuals who fit this special category.” – https://ohsaa.org/SWDAB-Home/Media-Service-Awards
When Miller found out he had won the Media award he had no idea that Loveland High School and the Athletic Department were responsible for nominating him for the prestigious award! Click the photo below to check out what Miller’s reaction was to winning OHSAA’s Media Award.
Luckily Miller was able to experience somewhat of a celebration for his achievement before the COVID-19 pandemic hit Ohio. On Saturday, February 1st LHS’s Athletic Department honored Miller in front of a packed LHS gym in between quarters of the Loveland Men’s basketball game (above photo).
Immediately after leaving the Cintas Center, David sent this photo to those who he un-invited to attend because he was concerned about them contracting the COVID 19 virus.
Nearly a month after being recognized at LHS, Miller was honored once again only this time during the finals of Ohio’s Division I Men’s High School basketball game at Xavier University’s Cintas Arena. The ceremony took place on Sunday, March 8th between quarters 3 and 4. Originally Miller and 8 of his guests were supposed to be treated to a sit-down dinner and then shortly after watch Miller honored on the court with the Media Award, but due to the COVID-19 outbreak, Miller’s guests stayed safely at home cheering Miller on from afar! Thankfully Miller was still honored as planned just in front of a smaller, socially distanced crowd of the friends he had wanted to attend the Cintas event with him. “It broke my heart to dis-invite, my friends and supporters, to the dinner,” Miller said, “But when I awoke that Sunday morning reading about more warnings about staying away from large crowds, that is what I needed to do.”
Miller’s disappointment was because his guests had played such an important, role for decades, for the attention he alone was receiving.
David Miller in all his glory receiving the 2020 Media Award at Xavier’s Cintas Center in March
Tim Stried, OHSAA’s Director of Communications, when asked about Miller reminisced on the moment he first him in 2013.
Tim Stried, OHSAA’s Director of Communications
“I first got to know David in 2013 when Loveland made its run to the 2013 Division II football state championship,” Stried said, “I read much of his coverage of the team in the playoffs and I remember his excitement and professionalism covering the team in Canton for the state championship game.”
OHSAA also included quite the biography on Miller on their website after he was honored with the 2020 Media Award. Below is an excerpt from OHSAA’s website.
“Mr. David Miller Editor and publisher of the Loveland Magazine. Mr. Miller has covered the Loveland schools for forty years. He plays a central role in training aspiring journalists from Loveland High School. He designed and branded the logo used by the Loveland High School Booster’s Club. He has published 1,400 sports stories in his magazine. He attends the annual athletic college signing day and promotes the honorees by producing a video of this event. Throughout his community, he initiated Habitat for Humanity’s efforts to build two houses. In 2006, the Loveland Magazine was awarded the prestigious Booth Spirit Media Award beating out all other media or stations in the Tri-State area. Recognition for going the extra mile in making his community healthy and strong. Congratulations Mr. Miller for doing a great job in promoting our athletes and coaches!” – https://ohsaa.org/SWDAB-Home/Media-Service-Awards
“It has been a gift from God that I’ve had the privilege of being around the Loveland High School’s athletic program for so many years,” Miller said, “I couldn’t imagine a more thoughtful and kind group of people. It was like biting into the most delicious apple pie that someone else mixed up all just the right ingredients into and baked for me. And, I got an award for eating it? I thank them for nominating me. And, I thank all of the current and former athletes and their parents for making attending their sporting events so rewarding and fun,” Miller added, “I am extremely grateful to Assistant Director of Student Athletics Eric Fry who spearheaded the nomination process, Director of Student Athletics Brian Conatser, Athletic Administrative Assistant Kristy Brulport, Site Manager Jake Elfers, and LHS Principal Peggy Johnson for the help and hospitality they have always given me. I also want to express my gratitude to Loveland Magazine’s LHS interns, Ricky Mulvey, Willie Lutz, Chris Shoals, Dean Parker, Sam Smith, and Matt Huether for all of the great sports reporting they did for our readers over the past decade. Also, Jen Morrison and David Burig for their incredible sports photography.”
Community of Loveland – please join me in saying CONGRATULATIONS to Mr. David Miller for receiving OHSAA’s 2020 Media Award! I think we can all agree that there would be no LOVE in LOVE-LAND without David Miller!
PAST MEDIA AWARD WINNERS
1997-98: Ted Landis, Brookville Star; Warren Johnson, WPFB Radio, Middletown
1998-99: Dave Long, Dayton Daily News; Duane Bachman, WPTW Radio, Piqua
1999-2000: Don McDermott, Greenville Daily; Dave Schutte, Cincinnati Enquirer
2000-2001: Mike Hartsock, WHIO TV, Dayton; Mark Huber, Wilmington News
2001-2002: Kert Radel, WMOH Radio, Hamilton; Bill Liermann, WSWO Radio, Wilmington
2002-2003: Jack Gordan, WPFB Radio, Middletown; Joe Neves, WPTW, Piqua
2003-2004: Tom Gambel, DSA Sports, Cincinnati; John Popovich, WCPO Radio, Cincinnati
2004-2005: Omar Williams, WHIO-TV, Retired; Ron Jackson, Dayton Daily News; Guy Fogle, WHIO TV
2005-2006: Roger Barger, WKFI WSWO Sabina; Tom Groeschen, Cincinnati Enquirer
2006-2007: Tom Archdeacon, Dayton Daily News; Ken Barhorst, Sidney Daily News
2007-2008: Sonny Fulks, WPTW, 1590WPTW.com; Jerry Nardiello, Middletown Journal
2008-2009: Enos Pennington, www.newrichmond.localsportsradio.com; Richard Crawford, The Clermont Suns Newspaper
2009-2010: Chick Ludwig; Jack Pohl, WDTN-Channel 2 Sports Director.
2010-2011: Mike Dyer, Cincinnati Enquirer; Ron Nunnari, Englewood Independent
2011-2012: Scott Ward, WTGR, Greenville; Jack Kramer, ScoresBroadcast.com
2012-2013: Dirk Allen; George Vogel
2013-2014: Mark Slaughter, WCPO-Channel 9; Rob Kiser, Piqua Daily Call.
2014-2015: Matt Hammond, Bellefontaine Examiner; Eric Frantz, J.J. Huddle
2015-2016: Marc Pendleton, Dayton Daily News; Rick Cassano, Cox Media Group
2016-2017: Debbie Juniewicz, Cox Publications (Dayton Daily News, Springfield/Middletown news); David Fong, Troy Daily News, Piqua Daily Call, Sidney Daily Call
2017-2018: Elise Jesse, WLWT, Cincinnati; Wade Linville, Brown County Press, Ripley Bee, News-Democrat.
2018-2019: Dale Barger, Greenville Daily Advocate; John Bombatch, Xenia Gazette.
Read this other recent article about our Publisher…
Loveland, Ohio – Citizens all across the state of Ohio are getting used to the “new” normal and aren’t hesitating in asking the question, “When will Ohio open up?” Thursday we not only received the answers we have been so anxiously waiting for from Governor DeWine we also received new information about Loveland “opening-up” as well from Little Miami River Chamber Alliance President, Cee Cee Collins.
Cee Cee joined me and Loveland Magazine Publisher, David Miller virtually through Zoom and she not only shared with us some of the life-saving measures the Chamber has taken to keep local businesses healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic but also provided us with some very positive predictions about Loveland’s financial recovery.
Loveland Magazine readers gather around the computer, virtually of course, and tune in to LOVELAND MAGAZINE TV’s Zoom interview with Cee Cee Collins…oh and don’t forget…WE ARE AND ALWAYS WILL BE THE SWEETHEART OF OHIO!
Loveland, Ohio – Although many people around the United States are expecting birthrates to skyrocket due to the COVID-19 pandemic, currently that just isn’t the case, in fact, it’s quite the opposite! Birthrates thus far in 2020 are remaining very consistent. Names.org decided to release their latest predictions on what the most popular baby names would be this year.
Veronica Parsons from Prism PR shared with us that the names Henry and Alexander have newly entered into Names.org’s top 10 this year for the boys and the name Mila has made its way into the top 10 this year for the girls.
“The rankings were determined by analyzing the most recent data from the Social Security Administration, trends from the past five years, and current user interest from millions of visitors to our site,” Parsons explained.
So without much further ado here are Names.org’s Top 10 boys and girls Names for 2020!
Top 10 Boys Names for 2020
2020 Ranking
2018 Ranking (2019 not released)
2018 Actual Totals
2020 Projections
1. Liam
No. 1
19,837
20,740
2. Noah
No. 2
18,267
16,980
3. William
No. 3
14,516
13,270
4. Oliver
No. 5
13,389
13,040
5. Lucas
No. 8
12,585
12,510
6. Benjamin
No. 6
13,381
12,300
7. Elijah
No. 7
12,866
12,260
8. James
No. 4
13,525
11,960
9. Henry
No. 16
10,649
10,690
10. Alexander
No. 11
11,989
10,480
Top 10 Girl Names for 2020
2020 Ranking
2018 Ranking
2018 Actual Totals
2020 Projections
1. Emma
No. 1
18,688
16,250
2. Olivia
No. 2
17,921
15,850
3. Ava
No. 3
14,924
13,400
4. Isabella
No. 4
14,464
12,790
5. Charlotte
No. 6
12,940
12,500
6. Sophia
No. 5
13,928
12,430
7. Amelia
No. 8
12,301
12,290
8. Mia
No. 7
12,642
11,530
9. Mila
No. 14
8,126
10,790
10. Harper
No. 9
10,582
10,700
Want to learn more about the meaning of your name and its origin? Visit https://www.names.org/ for all the fun details! Stay tuned for more Loveland Salad With Cassie Mattia!
by Cassie Mattia
The ECC stated that they would love to bring more awareness and reach to the conference’s brand so the conference decided to have students, coaches, and fans submit slogan ideas. The ECC selected the top 4 slogan ideas and posted them on the ECC website so that anyone and everyone could vote on their favorite slogan! Below are the top 4 slogan selections.
Stay tuned for the latest and greatest Local Sports 411 with me, Cassie Mattia!
![[Video Interview] A Unity Prayer Walk through Loveland Neighborhoods](https://lovelandmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/feature-gault.jpg)
by Cassie Mattia
OHSAA’s Board voted 9-0 to expand the OHSAA Football playoffs to 12 teams per region starting in the 2021 season. The expansion was proposed by the Ohio High School Football Coaches Association. OHSAA’s Director of Communications, Tim Stried, sent out a press release explaining how the new football playoff expansion will work.
The expansion will increase the number of football playoff qualifiers from 224 to 336. Last year there were 709 schools in Ohio that played 11-man football. Football is the only OHSAA team sport in which not every school qualifies for the postseason.
I am thinking either a red-tailed or red-shouldered hawk. (If someone knows better, please educate me.)
Miller’s disappointment was because his guests had played such an important, role for decades, for the attention he alone was receiving.
