Loveland Magazine

LOVELAND MAGAZINE

News and Events from the Loveland, Ohio Area

Without fear or favor

Since 2004

Tag: local news

  • Sabrina Newstead took a chance and came home to Loveland: Such great news for us all

    Sabrina Newstead took a chance and came home to Loveland: Such great news for us all

    After a totally unprecedented plan of action to safeguard the senior students, Newstead had just 3 days to cram in as much knowledge as she could, to try and pass her long case exam.

    Paul and Sarina Newstead

    by Paul Newstead

    My wife Sarina told me about Loveland Magazine and I thought that this story about our daughter could be a little piece of happiness during these stressful times.

    Our daughter Sabrina Newstead attended the Loveland school system from the time we moved to Loveland from England back in 1999. After graduating LHS in 2012, she attended Ohio Northern University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Biology Pre-Med) degree. She was then accepted into the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (RCSI) for her Medical Degree program.

    In the middle of March this year, the COVID-19 virus took hold in Ireland. RCSI thought that all graduation exams were going to have to be canceled since they were all due to be held this April. After a number of serious talks within RCSI, they decided upon a totally unprecedented plan of action to safeguard the senior students. In fact, they decided to bring forward all of their end of year medical school exams by 7 weeks! This had never happened before.

    Sabrina Newstead attended the Loveland school system from the time we moved to Loveland from England back in 1999. She graduated from Loveland High School in 2012.

    All the students were told about this. They had not even finished their classes and of course, had not even begun to revise for their end of year exams. Emotions were at fever pitch. To make matters worse, due to scheduling of the incredibly difficult “Long-Case” practical exams, Sabrina was told that her exams would start in just 3 days’ time on a Sunday.

    She had just 3 days to cram in as much knowledge as she could, to try and pass her long case exam. All doctors, professors, and examiners were amazed. This news even hit the press in Ireland (Read the story in The Irish Times). Other colleges were laughing at RCSI thinking that they were overreacting. However, RCSI had the last laugh as the Irish government began to close schools and colleges.

    Sabrina took her long case exam and was then told to pack up and leave Ireland as soon as possible because President Trump had declared that he was going to close international borders. She had less than 48 hours to pack up her 4-year apartment and leave the country.

    ‘Match Day’ (a day in which final year medical students find out if they have matched to a residency program in the states) was the day she was leaving Ireland, and if she did not match back to residency, she had to turn around and go back to Ireland to begin her intern year there. So she took a chance and came home.

    She grabbed as much as she could and packed 3 suitcases.

    She grabbed as much as she could and packed 3 suitcases. She managed to get the last flight out of Ireland bound for Boston and then Cincinnati. Her flight was delayed by 4 hours due to the new medical tests that were being performed in Boston. However, the flight eventually took off, and during the flight home, over the Atlantic, she received an email congratulating her for matching to the United States for her 3-year residency program.

    Sabrina made it home and 4 days later.

    Sabrina made it home and 4 days later found out that her new hospital for residency was The Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. Such great news for us all.

    Once home, she spent the next 2 weeks studying 14 hours a day, in self-quarantine, in her bedroom. RCSI had two more final exams for her to take before she could graduate. She took these two exams and then finally clicked “End Exam” to finish the last exams of her medical school journey.

    Students then wait anxiously for “Reading of results day” which was today, April 22nd. On this day, all graduating students in RCSI discover their results by reading student numbers based on their grades and degree awarded.

    Sabrina was awarded a First Class Honors Bachelor’s Degree in Medicine, Bachelor’s Degree in Surgery, and Bachelor’s Degree in Obstetrics.

    The celebration at home for Sabrina Newstead

    It was incredible. RCSI did a live stream from their offices in Dublin, Ireland. Each of the professors spoke of their absolute admiration for the class of 2020. Never before has a graduating year taken their final medical exams with no prior time for studying.

    She was awarded a First Class Honors Bachelor’s Degree in Medicine, Bachelor’s Degree in Surgery, and Bachelor’s Degree in Obstetrics.

    Congratulations to all the new doctors graduating this year, during the middle of a pandemic. We all support you.

  • Have you ever visited Loveland’s South Island?

    Have you ever visited Loveland’s South Island?

    David Miller is the Publisher and Editor of Loveland Magazine

    by David Miller

    Loveland, Ohio– I’ve always called it the South Island because just north of Nisbet Park there is a similar island I call the North Island. During dry spells, you can walk across dry creek beds formed by erosion to get onto the islands, but during higher river levels the water channels merge into one wider, Little Miami River.

    Both channels of water may someday form into permanent and complete oxbow ponds, but for now, they only occasionally do.

    Both islands are one of nature’s ways to prevent downstream and localized flooding. Because of their unique soil composition, they can absorb rainfall from the hills high above and hold water when the Little Miami rises. River floodplains are low, flat areas that periodically flood, collecting water that would otherwise rush downstream, threatening people and property. They temper the river flow.

    According to American Rivers: “A single acre of wetland, saturated to a depth of one foot, will retain 330,000 gallons of water – enough to flood thirteen average-sized homes thigh-deep. Wetlands also help provide clean rivers and drinking water by naturally filtering out run-off pollution.”

    The channel of water flowing through the east side of the South Island.

    The topography of the approximately 12 acres South Island benefits from both the erosion caused by the flow of the Little Miami and the deposits of silt left during flooding. It’s an ever-changing physical environment, but the flora and fauna remain pretty consistent. The emerging spring-time growth and the natural decay of the ancient tree trunks, including those trees that fall prey to the eroding effects of spring rains and fast river current are the seasonal changes you will notice.

    The South Island is the City of Loveland owned property just south of the Linda Cox Parking lot on Broadway in Historic Downtown. When you enter the lot, head to the last parking spaces and walk south between the Loveland Bike Trail and the Little Miami River. The path you begin on is the abandoned section of Lower River Road. You will be walking towards Branch Hill.

    This is a remarkable spot in the City and perfect for solitary exploring, dog walking, or picnicking with friends or family. Use caution and good judgment during periods of rain or storms and waterproof boots are recommended although occasionally you will find that some fellow explorer has placed convenient river stones to keep you dry and less muddy.

    You will enjoy the large lawn-like open spaces, however, it is not a place for throwing a ball or frisbee – beware of the hidden groundhog holes.

    These photos have been taken over the past 14 years. Most of them in the springtime.

    Perhaps because of the insane beauty of the South Islands, I always called the second set of mages below “Spring Rorschach Photos” because one day on one of my many treks I started noticing what I imagined stick-like animal figures entering my camera lens. A “wide-opened” telephoto lens that blurs the background can help you discover things you will not ordinarily notice. You have to look for eyeballs.

    Some psychologists used to use the Rorschach Test to examine a person’s personality characteristics and emotional functioning. It was employed to detect underlying thought disorder, especially in cases where patients are reluctant to describe their thinking processes openly.* So there you go… I confess.

    Feeling a little insane right now? This insane beauty might be your balm.

    Another place to visit in our resort-like town is the Simpson Farm
    Parents and children should explore Loveland’s Simpson Farm

     

    “Spring Rorschach Photos”

    Feeling a little insane right now? This insane beauty might be your balm.

     

     

  • Ricky Mulvey and David English – 4/21/2020 A quarantine episode…

    Ricky Mulvey and David English – 4/21/2020 A quarantine episode…

    Ricky Mulvey is a stand-up comedian, radio producer, and a mid-range threat in any pick-up basketball game. Mulvey loves talking about saving money on tickets, business news, and how e-commerce changed inflation as we know it. He graduated with a finance degree from THE Ohio State University in 2018.

     

    David English is a Kentucky Wildcat, soccer fanatic, and a credentialed financial professional. He loves spending time with his wife, Amy, and tweeting at people who will probably not interact with him back.

    Loveland Magazine’s favorite Podcasters are back with a special Quarantine Episode.

    Our favorite ones on the Internet of Radio because Ricky Mulvey worked at Loveland Magazine for five years and David English – well, just because we like him. David has been to the Loveland Magazine TV studio for an interview with Cassie Mattia, and we like David… well… because he sometimes gives our friend Ricky a hard time!

    Business news, but better

    Business news is boring. Let’s make it interesting, fun, and understandable. Ricky Mulvey and David English cut through the headlines and talk about how business news affects you.

    Listen to “A Quarantine Episode”

    Updates on remote work, CARES Act, recent unemployment claims, local business struggles, and MORE!

    “Full of Cents” co-hosts Ricky Mulvey and David English interviewed by Cassie Mattia…

  • LHS Principal Peggy Johnson to Class of 2020: You are the light of hope for school, community, and society

    LHS Principal Peggy Johnson to Class of 2020: You are the light of hope for school, community, and society

    Loveland, Ohio – In honor of the Loveland High School Spring Athletes and Class of 2020, the lights of Tiger Stadium were turned on for 20 minutes last evening.

    Watch this heartfelt video greeting that Principal Peggy Johnson recorded for the students about the tribute.

     

    LovelandAthletics
    @LovTigers_AD
    In honor of our Spring Athletes and Class of 2020. These lights are on for you this evening. We appreciate all your dedication and commitment. We miss you ALL! Forever, Go Tigers!

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    BUY your Loveland Tiger Spirit Wear

    New items have been added to our online flash sale. Available for a limited time! Up to 33% off items below! https://rpdiamond.com/products/ols/categories/sale-items

  • [Exclusive Video] April 7 meeting of the Loveland Board of Education

    [Exclusive Video] April 7 meeting of the Loveland Board of Education

    Loveland, Ohio – On April 7 the Loveland Board of Education held a work session using a remote meeting platform.

    Here is a re-play of the meeting.

    AGENDA

    1.1 Adoption of Board Agenda

    1.2 Pledge of Allegiance

    2. Superintendent Discussion Topics

    2.1 Progress Report on Building Closure Due to COVID-19

    2.2 Planning Commission

    3. Superintendent Resolutions
    3.1 Resolution declaring an emergency, suspending board policy related to public participation at board meetings, and authorizing remote meetings

     

    A RESOLUTION DECLARING AN EMERGENCY, SUSPENDING BOARD POLICY RELATED TO PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AT BOARD MEETINGS, AND AUTHORIZING REMOTE MEETINGS

    WHEREAS, COVID-19 is a respiratory disease that can result in serious illness or death, is caused by the SARS-C0V-2 virus, which is a new strain of coronavirus that had not been previously identified in humans and can easily spread from person to person between individuals who are in close contact with each other (within about 6 feet) through respiratory droplets produced when an infected persons coughs or sneezes. It may also be possible to contract COVID-19 through the touching of a surface that has the virus on it then touching one’s own mouth, nose or eyes; and

    WHEREAS, the Governor has declared a state of emergency with respect to the spread of the novel coronavirus; and

    WHEREAS, the Director of the Ohio Department of Health has ordered that all K-12 schools be closed to students through 11:59 p.m. on May 1, 2020, and this order may be extended beyond that date; and

    WHEREAS, the Ohio Department of Health has further ordered residents of the state to stay at home except to conduct essential business and prohibits public or private gatherings of more than ten individuals occurring outside a single household; and

    WHEREAS, House Bill 197 was enacted on March 27, 2020 as an emergency measure which was designed to assist schools and other public bodies to maintain operations during this health emergency in a way that complies with orders issued by the state and federal government; and

    WHEREAS, in order to permit the fair and orderly expression of public comment at its meetings, the Board has adopted a public participation policy; and

    WHEREAS, while the Board intends to continue to conduct the business of Loveland City Schools and to keep the community informed of its discussions and decisions related to the official business of the District, the Board must also act to protect the health and safety of its members, staff, students and other community members who may enter on to school premises.

    NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Education of the Loveland City School District, that after careful consideration and evaluation of the information before it:

    Section 1. The Board of Education hereby finds that an emergency exists with regard to the spread of a serious communicable disease, COVID-19.

    Section 2. In order to prevent against the further spread of the novel coronavirus, the Board of Education hereby temporarily suspends its public participation policy, which shall no longer be in effect upon adoption of this Resolution by a majority of the Board. Such policy may be reinstated through a subsequent action taken by the Board of Education.

    Section 3.In order to enable the Board of Education to continue with District operations during the public health emergency,the Board of Education may meet telephonically or through other electronic means, including conference calls or other meeting technology to conduct the public business of the public body while emergency orders of the federal and/or state government are in effect limiting public gatherings. Members will be considered present regardless of whether they attend in person or remotely, and their votes shall be counted for the purpose of determining quorum. Such meetings will be properly noticed to the public through the established and usual method of notice to the public.

    SECTION 4. In order to provide an opportunity for attendance by the public, news media, and any other person that has requested notification of meetings via the technology utilized will be made available to the extent reasonably possible and feasible. The means of technology and information on how to access the meeting as a member of the public will be made available. The Board of Education intends to fully honor its obligations under the Open Meetings Act (R.C. §121.22) through measures approved by House Bill 197 (2020).

    Section 5. The Board of Education hereby finds and determines that all formal actions relative to the adoption of this resolution were taken in an open meeting of this Board of Education, and that all deliberations of this Board of Education and of its committees, if any, which resulted in formal action, were taken in meetings open to the public, in full compliance with applicable legal requirements, including Section 121.22, ORC and House Bill 197 (2020).

    Section 6. This resolution shall be in full force and effect from and immediately after its adoption and shall supersede any prior resolution or act of this Board of Education that may be inconsistent or duplicative with the provisions of this resolution.

    3.2 Resolution for a Contingency Plan for the 2019-2020 school year in the event school is closed for more than the hours permitted under board policy and state law

    CONTINGENCY PLAN

    FOR THE 2019-2020 SCHOOL YEAR

    IN THE EVENT SCHOOL IS CLOSED

    FOR MORE THAN THE HOURS PERMITTED UNDER

    BOARD POLICY AND STATE LAW

    WHEREAS, Ohio Revised Code §3313.48 mandates that a school district must be open for instruction with pupils in attendance for a minimum number of hours each school year; and

    WHEREAS, R.C. §3313.482 authorizes a board of education to adopt a plan that permits students to make up missed hours of instruction via online/remote learning in the event that schools are closed for a disease epidemic or other reasons; and

    WHEREAS, House Bill 197 (2020), which was enacted on March 27, 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic health emergency, authorizes the Loveland City School District Board of Education (the “Board”) to adopt a plan to provide for online learning opportunities for students to make up an unlimited number of hours in lieu of attendance on days when buildings are not open to students during the 2019-2020 school year in compliance with any order issued by the Ohio Director of Health and/or a local board of health; and

    WHEREAS, the Board has developed a contingency plan in accordance with R.C. §3313.482 under which district students will make up any time missed through online instruction/remote learning that caused the district to fall below the minimum number of hours of instruction required by section 3313.48 of the Ohio Revised Code and Board Policy; and

    WHEREAS, the Board desires to adopt said plan; and

    WHEREAS, House Bill 197 (2020) also permits the Board to adjust the student grading criteria and the Board has determined it necessary to modify the method for student promotion and retention during this crisis.

    NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Education of the Loveland City School District that:

    SECTION I

    Pursuant to R.C. §3313.482 and House Bill 197 (2020), the Board hereby authorizes the following plan to allow students of the Loveland City School District to access and complete online/remote lessons in order to fulfill the required number of hours during the 2019-2020 school year:

    1. Each teacher shall develop a sufficient number of lessons for the days and hours of closure.
    2. Teachers will submit the lessons to the building principal for approval. The building principal will certify that the lessons are equal to or greater than the amount of instructional time the student missed.
    3. As soon as practicable, the appropriate administrator will direct staff about how to make lessons available through a District approved website or other technology portal.
    4. The teacher will be responsible for posting the lessons online.
    5. Teachers will regularly assess the progress of students and will update or replace such lessons as necessary throughout the remainder of the school year based on the results of the assessments.
    6. For students who experience difficulty accessing the online material or who do not have access to a computer, the Board hereby authorizes “blizzard bags” as needed, which are paper copies of the lessons/assignments posted. Teachers shall prepare paper copies approximating the content of the online lessons and shall update such paper copies when updating any of the online lessons. Blizzard bags will be distributed by school personnel or during scheduled pick up times. Printed copies of any graded lessons or assignments will be included in the blizzard bags.
    7. This plan was shared with the teacher’s employee representative.

    SECTION II

    Should circumstances warrant a change in the plan during the 2019-2020 school year, this contingency plan may be amended by the Superintendent at any time in his or her discretion.

    SECTION III

    In order to provide appropriate educational opportunities to students through alternative methods, to allow promotion from grade-to-grade, and so not as to penalize students who determine to complete assignments through the offered alternative means, the Board temporarily suspends current Board Policy 5421 on the award of letter grades, which shall no longer be in effect upon adoption of this Resolution by a majority of the Board. Such policy may be reinstated through a subsequent action taken by the Board. Any other Board Policy that is inconsistent with the action taken within Sections III and IV of this Resolution shall also be temporarily suspended until such time as Board Policy 5421 is reinstated.

    SECTION IV

    The Board authorizes the Superintendent and School Administration to develop and implement a system of pass/not pass grading for each course in grades 5-8 within the Loveland City Schools instructional program until such time as the Board restores the grading policy.

    SECTION V

    IT IS FOUND AND DETERMINED that all formal action of this Board concerning or related to the adoption of this Resolution was adopted in an open meeting of this Board, and all deliberations of this Board that resulted in such formal action were adopted in meetings open to the public, in compliance with all applicable requirements of the Ohio Revised Code.

    3.3 Resolution delegating authority for determining it impracticable or impossible to evaluate employees due to COVID-19

    RESOLUTION DELEGATING AUTHORITY FOR DETERMINING IT IMPRACTICABLE OR IMPOSSIBLE TO EVALUATE EMPLOYEES

    DUE TO COVID-19 

    WHEREAS, Board of Education of the Loveland City School District (the “Board”) employees are annually evaluated in accordance with Ohio statues and Board policies; and

    WHEREAS, an Order of School Closure was issued by Ohio Department of Health Director Acton on March 14, 2020 and in response to the Order of School closure, House Bill 197 (2020) was enacted on March 27, 2020; and

    WHEREAS, language contained in HB 197 (2020) permits the Board to elect not to evaluate employees when it is deemed impossible or impractical to do so based on the implications of COVID-19.

    NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Education of the Loveland City School District:

    SECTION I 

    For the 2019-2020 school year, due to the Director of Health’s March 14th Order, or any extension of an order to close all kindergarten through 12th grade schools, and the language of House Bill 197 (2020), the Board hereby delegates authority to the Superintendent, Treasurer, or their individual designees to determine and deem it impossible or impracticable to conduct an evaluation of Board employees in accordance with the Ohio Revised Code and Board policies.

    SECTION II

    It is found and determined that all formal actions of this Board concerning or related to the adoption of this Resolution were adopted in an open meeting of this Board, and all deliberations of this Board and any of its committees that resulted in such formal actions were adopted in meetings open to the public, in compliance with all applicable requirements of the Ohio Revised Code.

    3.4 Approve rescheduling of Board Meetings

    Move the April 21, 2020 Board of Education Business Meeting to April 30, 2020

    Move the May 5, 2020 Board of Education Work Session to May 12, 2020

    Move the May 19, 2020 Board of Education Business Meeting to May 28, 2020

    These meetings will all be conducted in a virtual format due to the extension of the “Stay at Home” order signed on 4/2/2020.

    4. Treasurer Discussion Topics

    4.1 Costs Related to the Building Closure Due to COVID-19

    5. Treasurer Resolutions

    5.1 Recommend to refund tuition for full day kindergarten for 50% of March and 100% for April

    6. Meeting Closing
    6.1 Adjournment
  • Should Loveland school taxes increase while residents Lose their livelihoods?

    Should Loveland school taxes increase while residents Lose their livelihoods?

    by Kim and Rick Donaldson

    While many in Loveland are losing their jobs and their businesses, our school board persists in asking us to raise our taxes. As it stands today, they may very well get their way simply by virtue of low voter turnout. So, if you

    Kim and Rick Donaldson live on Paxton Road in Miami Township

    haven’t already done so, apply for an absentee ballot now. The primary election originally scheduled for March 17th is now by mail only. Completed ballots must be postmarked no later than midnight, April 27th or dropped off at your county board of elections by 7:00 PM April 28th. Since you will first need to apply to have a ballot mailed to you, there is no time to lose.

    Now back to the original question: should our school taxes be increased? We are told that additional funding is needed to “protect our progress”. This would imply that past increases have improved district performance. However, according to Ohio Department of Education data, Loveland’s overall performance index score ranked in the top 15% of Ohio schools from 2010 through 2014, with correspondingly high overall grades. In 2015, Loveland’s performance dropped precipitously, nearly to the bottom 25%. Various explanations have been floated for this drop: Common Core implementation, testing changes, students opting out of testing, etc. Available data do not definitively show what the explanation is, but it does show what it isn’t: spending. Referring to the first chart, note that Loveland’s 2019 overall performance is virtually identical to its 2010 to 2014 performance, but expenditure per pupil is as much as 20% higher after adjusting for inflation.  Also note that Loveland’s performance had already recovered to pre-2015 levels by 2018, before the big ramp-up in expenditure.

    Graph provided by Kim and Rick Donaldson

    Since increased funding doesn’t seem to be improving our district’s rating, it is difficult to see exactly what progress we are protecting. Moreover, if we are to invest more of our hard-earned and increasingly scarce money in the schools, we expect to reap some benefit as a community. So far, our children don’t seem to have reaped the benefit of a better education and our property owners haven’t reaped the benefit of the appreciation that should result from a better-rated school system. However, there is one segment of the community who has reaped the benefit: teachers.

    According to Ohio Department of Education data, presented in the second chart, Loveland’s average teacher salary was $63,566 in 2010, which was about average for an Ohio school district with similar demographics among both the community and the teachers. In 2019, Loveland’s average teacher salary had increased to $78,248, 10% above the comparable Ohio district average. Loveland’s average teacher salary has also risen faster than median income. In 2010, the average teacher salary was 28% above median income. By 2019 it had risen to 47% above median income. While some might argue that paying teachers more improves educational quality, Loveland’s teacher salary and performance trends do not support that claim. Statistical analysis of statewide trends also shows no practical benefit for paying teachers above-market salaries.

    Graph provided by Kim and Rick Donaldson

    We do not question the quality, dedication or professionalism of Loveland teachers. Nor do we fault them for negotiating the most favorable compensation package they can. It is the responsibility of the board of education and administration to negotiate effectively on behalf of the Loveland community at large to deliver a high-quality education at a cost we can afford. Sadly, they do not seem to be doing an adequate job of cost control at a time when residents cannot afford to pay more.

    While no one knows how severe the current economic downturn will be or how long it will last, we do know the proposed levy will cost property owners an additional $20 per month for each $100,000 of appraised value, forever. Under the circumstances, it would be appropriate for the Loveland School Board to withdraw the levy, and we wholeheartedly agree with those who have already called on them to do so. However, the board’s past behavior indicates they are unlikely to heed those calls. The only way we can stop this levy and impose fiscally responsibility is to get an absentee ballot and vote no.

    References:

    1. Elections and Voting in Ohio, Ohio Secretary of State website:  https://www.sos.state.oh.us/elections/voters
    2. Ohio Department of Education District Profile (Cupp) Reports:  http://education.ohio.gov/Topics/Finance-and-Funding/School-Payment-Reports/District-Profile-Reports
    3. Ohio Department of Education District Achievement/Rating Data:  https://reportcard.education.ohio.gov/download
    4. US Bureau of Labor Statistics CPI Inflation Calculator:
      https://www.bls.gov/data/inflation_calculator.htm
    5. Ohio Department of Education District Teacher Information:  https://reportcard.education.ohio.gov/download
  • A painted photo by Scott Carney

    A painted photo by Scott Carney

    Loveland, Ohio – This painted photo was taken by Scott Carney at the Loveland Bike Trail where it crosses Broadway. This plant sits right between the trail and the parking lot that is adjacent to Loveland Canoe and Kayak.

    Scott said, “Trying to bring a little beauty and positivity into the day. Have a great one guys! Peace.”

  • Join this Loveland group putting their home 3D printers to good use

    Join this Loveland group putting their home 3D printers to good use

    by Natalie Clark

    Hi Loveland Magazine Readers. We want to reach out to our community and see if there are any folks who would like to put their home 3D printers to good use and join us in making 3D printed face shields for Cincy!

    The Problem: Patients with COVID-19 experience significant respiratory issues, resulting in coughing. Virus particles are easily spread in the fluids expelled from the patient during episodes of coughing. The face shield is an additional barrier between the healthcare worker and the patient, reduces the risk of viral transmission via airborne droplets, and reduces virus load on face masks worn underneath the face shield.

    Hospitals and clinics are running low or completely out of supply of face shields and have no choice but to treat infectious patients without a face shield to reduce exposure to airborne droplets and contagious body fluids.

    We are a Loveland family and our son goes to the Loveland Middle School. A couple of weeks ago, we started making 3D printed face shields using our 3 home printers.

    We have started a FaceBook group, 3D Printed Face Shields for Cincy which helps unite local 3D printing enthusiasts to help us make and donate more face shields to the local hospitals and clinics. To date, we have made and donated over 400 face shields for the frontline workers in our community (Kettering, OHC, TriHealth, Cincinnati Children’s, and local clinics).

    If you would like to help out, join our 3D Printed Face Shields for Cincy group on FaceBook or consider supporting us via gofundme.

    Donating $1 will cover the materials cost for 1 face shield so we can purchase material for producing more face shields. $750 has been raised so far.

    The 3D Printed Faceshields for Cincy group unites Cincinnati and tri-state area 3D printing enthusiasts who pledge to donate their time and efforts to create, distribute, and donate free face shields to Cincinnati based hospitals and clinics to combat COVID-19.

    47184330_1586045238355708_r.jpeg

    Hospitals and clinics are running low or completely out of the supply of face shields and have no choice but to treat infectious patients without one to reduce their exposure to airborne droplets and contagious body fluids.

    47184330_1586045529231756_r.jpeg
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    The funds will be used to purchase material for producing more face shields.

    This includes:

    ⚫ 3D printing filament
    ⚫ Visor material
    ⚫ Elastic bands
    ⚫ Misc. Hardware, packaging, cleaners

    We will be making and donating face shields as long as there is a need for them. Any remaining campaign funds will be donated to Charitable Health Network of Ohio to support free clinics.

    For Makers and direct donations of filament/time

    Please join our Facebook Group.
    For Medical Facilities
    If you are an essential medical worker or medical facility director and would like to request free donations of 3D printed face shield in the Cincinnati region, please fill out this form  or contact us directly.
    Our Design
    All designs that we are promoting have either NIH (National Institute of Health) or specific medical facility approval.

     

  • Duke Energy Convention Center selected for “Enhanced Hospital Capacity” other local COVID 19 news

    Duke Energy Convention Center selected for “Enhanced Hospital Capacity” other local COVID 19 news

    Ohio’s new stay at home order goes into effect at midnight tonight.

    Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jon Husted, and Dr. Amy Acton, MD, MPH, provided the following updates on Ohio’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic this afternoon. 

    HOSPITAL CAPACITY 

    The announcement said that Ohio must double its hospital capacity due to the oncoming COVID-19 surge, Ohio has developed a plan to expand healthcare services at alternative sites in addition to the traditional medical care facilities. Representatives from health care systems, local governments, county emergency management agencies, state agencies, the Ohio National Guard, among others, examined buildings across the state that could support large numbers of patients.

    The following sites have been selected based on considerations such as distance to an existing hospital, conditions safe for patients and health care professionals, and space to meet the region’s expected needs, including the Duke Energy Convention Center in downtown Cincinnati.

    1. Seagate Convention Center, Lucas County
    2. Case Western University’s Health Education Campus, Cuyahoga County
    3. Dayton Convention Center, Montgomery County
    4. Covelli Convention Center, Mahoning County
    5. Duke Energy Convention Center, Hamilton County
    6. Greater Columbus Convention Center, Franklin County

    These facilities would be used for the mildly ill, while the sickest patients will be housed in traditional hospitals.

    Assessments of other sites will continue if needed.

    The press release from the Governor’s office said that health care regions in southern and southeastern Ohio have determined the existing hospital facilities in their areas will, with additional equipment, be capable to handle a surge in patients without going to an off-site location.

    OHIO NATIONAL GUARD TO ASSIST FEDERAL PRISON

    Governor DeWine announced that he has authorized the Ohio National Guard to assist federal authorities in the Elkton Federal Correctional Institution in Columbiana County where seven inmates have tested positive for COVID-19, and three inmates have died from the disease.

    “To be clear, this is not a state facility, it is a federal prison – but, this prison is in Ohio. Ohio citizens work there, and their families live here,” said Governor DeWine. “As we’ve said for weeks, we’re all in this together, and providing state help for this federal prison is the right thing to do.”

    The Ohio National Guard’s mission will be focused on providing medical assistance. They will not be armed, nor will they be providing security.

    The guardsmen and women will assist in the prison’s infirmary with non-COVID-19 cases and with patients who are showing symptoms of the disease. These soldiers, who all work in the medical field, will have N-95 respirators for protection while they work to augment the current prison medical staff. They will treat those they can and triage others with serious symptoms for hospital care.

    The guard also stands ready to help with transporting the seriously ill patients to the hospital in the event of a surge of sick inmates. In addition to staff, the guard will bring equipment and ambulances with them as well.

    Governor DeWine also requested that the Federal Bureau of Prisons and U.S. Department of Justice cease accepting new inmates at the facility.

    DISPUTE RESOLUTION 

    Lt. Governor Husted announced that the administration’s Dispute Resolution Commission, which was initially announced last week, is now prepared to receive submissions from essential businesses as well as county health departments.

    The panel, which includes Ohio Department of Commerce Director Sheryl Maxfield, Development Services Agency Director Lydia Mihalik, and Public Utilities Commission of Ohio Chairman Sam Randazzo, will specifically seek to resolve disputes when two county health departments disagree on whether a type of business should or should not be deemed essential during the state of emergency. The purpose of the commission is to provide clarity and ensure that similarly-situated businesses are treated fairly, regardless of which side of a county line they operate.

    For more information, visit Coronavirus.Ohio.gov/BusinessHelp and select the “Businesses & Nonprofits” tab for more information.

    REMINDER – NEW STAY AT HOME ORDER

    Ohio’s new stay at home order goes into effect at midnight tonight. You can find the full order at coronavirus.ohio.gov.

    Retailers will be required to determine a maximum number of customers allowed in the store to account for proper physical distancing. That number must also be displayed at the businesses’ entrances.

    REMINDER – SNOWBIRDS MUST SELF-QUARANTINE 

    Governor DeWine today reminded “snowbirds” that they must quarantine for 14 days once they arrive in Ohio.

    “I know that many of our Ohio snowbirds will soon be returning from places like Florida, and we want to make sure that you remain healthy and that those around you remain healthy,” said Governor DeWine.

    In addition to those returning after spending winter elsewhere, anyone who has traveled outside of Ohio for any other reason must also self-quarantine for 14 days upon their return. This order excludes truckers, healthcare workers, other workers providing essential services, and those who live on the state border.

    CURRENT OHIO DATA

    There are 4,450 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ohio and 142 deaths. A total of 1,214 people have been hospitalized, including 371 admissions to intensive care units. In-depth data can be accessed by visiting coronavirus.ohio.gov.

    • 4,450 – Confirmed Cases in Ohio
    • 371 – Number of ICU admissions
    • 1,214 – Number of Hospitalizations in Ohio
    • 142 – Number of Deaths
    • <1–101 – Age Range
    • 54 – Median Age
    48%* – Sex – Males
    52%* – Sex – Females
    LAST UPDATED: 04/06/20 (UPDATED DAILY AT 2 P.M.) *<1% SEX NOT REPORTED

    In Clermont County there are 27 cases, 4 hospitalizations, and 1 death.

    In Hamilton County there are 394 cases, 66 hospitalizations, and 9 deaths.

    In Warren County there are 37 cases, 5 hospitalizations, and 0 deaths.

    In Butler County there are 75 cases, 29 hospitalizations, and 2 deaths.

    Video of today’s full update, including versions with foreign language closed captioning, can be viewed on the Ohio Channel’s YouTube page.

    For more information on Ohio’s response to COVID-19, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH.

  • Senior Emergency Pantry in Clermont County – Urgent Needs

    Senior Emergency Pantry in Clermont County – Urgent Needs

    Clermont County, Ohio – Clermont Senior Services (CSS), has established an emergency pantry for seniors in need and is seeking donations. The pantry urgently needs cleaning supplies and dish soap.

    In response to the needs of our most vulnerable community members, Clermont Senior Services has established an emergency needs pantry. The donation drop off and pick up site is located at the Lois Brown Dale Welcome Center, located at, 2085 James E Sauls Sr. Drive, Batavia, OH 45103. The Center is the second building on the left after entering the parking lot.

    In an effort to assist those who do not wish to leave their homes, CSS is making every effort to utilize its transportation fleet to pick up items from donors and deliver to those in need. If you have items to donate and would like them to be picked up at your home, please contact the intake department at 513-724-1255. Donation drop-offs are accepted between 8:00am & 4:30 PM.

    If you are a senior or know a senior that needs assistance, call 513-724-1255 and request to speak to the Intake department. Pantry recipients must be at least 60 years of age and reside in Clermont County.

    For the safety of all parties, donations must be new and unopened. These are the items most needed at this time:

    Nonperishable food items                            Small laundry detergent

    Disposable adult briefs (pull ups)               Disposable under pads (chux)

    Kitty Litter                                                       Toilet paper

    Pet food                                                           Adult coloring books / pencils

    Personal care items                                       Small microwave ovens

    Flashlights                                                        Distilled Water

    Batteries – all sizes

    Kleenex/paper towels

    Cleaning supplies (no bleach) Clorox wipes are ok

    RP Diamond is currently taking online orders. Retail Store is closed

    Senior 2020 shirts available now! Free delivery…