Former ABX/DHL employees rebounded at UPS … paying bills, For some it happened paying for a place to live quickly, for others it in Missouri, and the kids in college,” took a while He said that period “drained our savings”; we The News Journal had to go to bank to see recently reached out if we could pay half of our publicly and asked former house payment, but we DHL/ABX employees only had to do that one to share their experi- time.” ences before, during and For a year-and-a-half he after DHL shut its doors commuted every week locally. to Missouri — a 10-hour These are their stories: drive. He joined the UPS Darrin Tissandier, Louisville, management training Ky. program, and since 2010 Darrin Tissandier he’s been a maintenance graduated in 1986 from supervisor in Louisville. Blanchester High School. He continues to com- After serving in the U.S. mute from Hillsboro to Air Force for four years Louisville (2.5 hours one (where he met his wife), way). While in Louisville they lived in Brown he’s one of 7 residents of County. a “crash house” with men Darrin started working from St. Louis, Indianap- at the Airborne Express Courtesy photo | Darrin Tissandier olis, Ohio and Michigan. sort center in Wilmington This group photo, which includes Darrin Tissandier, shows workers at Airborne Express in Wilmington in 1993. Tissandier is standing, just Some of those work at in 1992, and by 1994 to the right of the middle, hat on and hands crossed. Southwest Airlines — in he was a junior aircraft Dallas. mechanic there. years and three months to keep our heads above Of his days with Air- “It was a great place to — December 2013 was water,” he said. borne Express in Wilm- work,” he said. “A lot of his last rotation. He said he estimates ington, he said, “Ask any- good people.” He eventually shuttered he’s one of about 40 for- body that worked there; He said they knew that his own business for mer Airborne Express they’ll tell you it was the layoffs were coming, and good. He applied for the employees now at UPS best company they ever the announcement was UPS management train- in Louisville — including worked for.” made in the spring. In ing program, and after some that commute from August they began taking nine months was hired as this area to Louisville, Deanna Liermann, voluntary layoffs and he a line maintenance super- including … Wilmington decided “to be one of the visor. Deanna Liermann is first ones out the door.” He did that for a year- David Allard, Hillsboro a lifelong Wilmington “I had two kids in high and-a-half before taking David Allard, 51, is resident married for 37 school,” he said. “I didn’t his current job as an originally from Indiana, years to Bill, a current want to chase air main- aging aircraft inspector but he, his wife of 31 city council member. tenance jobs around the for UPS. He flies all over years and three kids have They have two sons, who world. I started a busi- the world for UPS — his resided in Hillsboro since graduated in 2000 and ness installing medical recent trips include to 1993. The three kids 2013. equipment in hospitals.” Taiwan, Singapore and are grown and still live She started at Airborne The new business was Germany — although nearby. Express part-time in 1987 going well until “the most of his travel is with- David started working and after a few months economy crashed in 2009 in the U.S. at Airborne Express in went full-time in inven- and hospitals quit spend- Through all the turmoil 1993, first working in tory control in the aircraft ing money.” of the 2000s, “By the hangar maintenance, then parts section until 1997. His business was down grace of God we never on the flight line, then in She then was in engineer- to one employee besides got behind on one bill,” maintenance control. ing for three years as himself, so he worked in he said. He said that in 2008, Courtesy photo | Darrin Tissandier a component research Darrin Tissandier formerly worked at ABX in Wilmington; he is now construction and excavat- His wife had complete “We knew layoffs were with UPS in Louisville (shown). analyst, analyzing what ing and tried to keep his nursing school in 2000. coming; the writing was parts were effective for business going. Their third child was on the wall. DHL was the company’s planes, “I did that for over a born in 2004. They had the total opposite of Air- At the time, the Allards’ companies and took a job handling part requests year,” he said. “Then in built a new house in borne. We knew we were three children were all in as a part-time mechanic and more. 2010 I had opportunity, 2005. losing customers.” college. with UPS in Springfield, “That wasn’t my niche,” from a former Airborne His wife had been He said he was with He said he tried to Missouri; friends of his she said, so in 20o0 she Express guy, to go to working part-time, “But DHL “until the end” remain upbeat. “A lot of who worked there said he returned to inventory Afghanistan with Black- when I got laid off she when he was one of the people were nervous, but could eventually get on control as a material water Aviation as aircraft stepped up into high gear, last two laid off in main- I knew there were jobs full-time. assistant. inspector. working as much as she tenance control in spring out there.” “Things didn’t get He did that for three could, and we were able 2009. He applied at many tough on us until the year See rebounded | 8

Clinton County’s comeback story since DHL’s departure

We’ve come a long way quarters of Deutsche Post da Fogle. Earlier that Commissioner Randy since DHL’s bombshell World Net — DHL’s par- year the two saw their Riley said, “It would be ent company — Deutsche full-time jobs cut back to awful for our community Post’s CEO Frank Appel 6 and a half hours. to lose 6,000 jobs [an WILMINGTON — On described the restructur- They went to talk with early number reported] May 28, 2008, DHL ing of DHL’s business in upper management about — even 500 jobs. That announced it planned the United States as a it. would affect every fam- to partner with UPS “comprehensive and radi- “We were told to make ily, every person in Clin- to transport DHL’s air cal plan.” the adjustments,” Michael ton County. I hate the shipments within North The U.S. division of related. thought of it happening.” America (a deal that DHL reportedly had Of the announcement He added, “I’m sad that never materialized). News Journal photo been losing hundreds of 24 hours earlier, Michael DHL is losing money, but The privately owned CBS News’ “60 Minutes” featured a story in January 2009 on the millions of dollars annu- said, “We got blind-sided. the big impact is what it’s DHL Air Park in Wilm- plight of Wilmington in the wake of DHL’s closing, with a follow-up ally in its attempt to be There’s no other job in going to be on us.” ington had served as story in December 2009. a third player in the U.S. Clinton County that’s Two of the first pub- DHL’s air and ground tions in Wilmington and face-to-face with our domestic shipping market going to pay that [her lic meetings scheduled superhub in North Amer- would be eliminated. employees, and tell them with UPS and FedEx. $17.55 hourly wage].” here in the wake of the ica since fall 2005 — for There were thousands that none of them deserve That goal may have been Fogle said she was announcement were a two and a half years. The employed as night-time it. And that it’s a really, overly ambitious from concerned about the air community prayer service consolidation of DHL’s air sorters, some of them really hard thing to go the start, even before the park workers who had at the Wilmington First operations in Wilmington area farmers who wanted through and we’ll help economy was weakened done nothing else, “espe- Baptist Church and a had been a centerpiece of the health insurance each other get through by the Great Recession. cially the older people gathering spear-headed a $1.2 billion investment coverage and extra cash it,” said ABX Air then- A day after the who have been there 25 by union activists. in its U.S. network by the provided by their moon- President John Graber announcement the News years. You know, they’re The latter meeting global delivery company. lighting. later that day. Journal spoke with ABX 50 years old. They can’t focused on the The announcement “We tried to talk about At a press conference in employees and friends retire yet.” meant night sort opera- this openly, honestly the Bonn, Germany head- Susie Michael and Rhon- Then-Clinton County See comeback | 5 2 June 28, 2018 2018 progress News Journal Come grow with Wilmington Savings Bank Wilmington Savings Through it all, savings, CDs, mortgages, You’re invited to come Monday-Thursday 8:30 Bank was founded in Wilmington Savings home equity, consumer grow with Wilmington a.m.-5:p.m.; Friday 8:30 1890 and has been Bank has remained loans, auto loans and Savings Bank. a.m.-6 p.m.; and Satur- committed to serving a constant in the construction loans. Learn more at www. day 8:30 a.m.-noon. and supporting our community. We were Wilmington Savings wilmingtonsavings.com. Highland County community for more to Wilmington Savings the bank of choice for Bank is now proud to be 137 N. High St., Suite than a century. Bank. your grandparents, able to offer services to Wilmington Savings Bank 201, Hillsboro, OH “Our goal has always Over the years, the and we will be here Highland County with Main office 45133 been to be a resource for town of Wilmington has to be the bank of your a full-service banking 184 N. South St., Phone: 937-366-1421 the people of Wilmington seen a lot of change. grandchildren too. center located at 137 Wilmington, OH 45177 Hillsboro office hours and to help them achieve Businesses and families The bank’s services N. High St., Suite 201, Phone: 937-382-1659 are Monday-Friday 9 their dreams,” according grow and change. include checking, Hillsboro. Main office hours are: a.m.-5 p.m.

The Laurels of Blanchester: Care, compassion and community

“I think we are such a unique team. Everybody just pulls together for all the events and to help the community out,” said Misty Branham, Director of Marketing and Admin- istration at the Laurels of Blanchester. While Branham has only been with the Lau- rels since January, she has seen what has drawn patients to her new place of employment — a The Laurels of Blanchester. 50-bed skilled nursing and rehabilitation center who was diagnosed year’s they raised around that provides both short- with stage four breast $1,500. term and extended-stay cancer. They all donned In December, their care. Photos by News Journal on “Pink for Sara” shirts Celebration of Lights “We get a lot of our The Laurels of Blanchester nursing staff wearing shirts showing support of their fellow nurse Sara and collected donations will allow locals to buy guests from all over. It’s Reifenberger who was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. that would cover any a tree in honor, memory, not just the Blanchester medical expenses she or recognition of indi- area. We get them from either wound dress- they’ll cover for an inpa- great job of helping the had. viduals or groups at $50. Wilmington, Morrow, ing changes or wound tient stay or outpatient patients. She said the The Laurels also con- Laurels will decorate the Goshen. So, we’re kind vacuuming by visiting therapy,” she said. therapy team does a good tinues to support their tree and plant it for the of getting them from all the facility on a monthly While she has only job. community by holding buyers. The proceeds around the Blanches- basis. worked for half a year she According to her, three annual events go to the Glenn Thomp- ter area which is a big They also help families was somewhat familiar they’ve maintained a including the Easter son Memorial Fund — growth for us,” said Bra- of potential residents who with the Laurels before steady group of patients Egg Hunt for Putnam named after a former nham. have any questions in joining their staff. for their therapy services, Elementary first graders. BPD Chief. Among the services, regard to Medicaid and “The one thing I’ve including those who go The Firecracker July The Laurels of they have included insurance questions, since noticed since joining home still use the outpa- 4th Celebration with Blanchester is located Dr. Ronald Pedalino, a some don’t know the them is they’re big on tient therapy. a 5k race starting at 8 at 839 Cherry Street in surgeon in the wound insurance process of it. customer service and Their nursing staff a.m. All proceeds raised Blanchester. specialty clinic at Clin- “We are starting that, they follow through with also has much notabil- will go to a scholarship Call 937-783-4911 for ton Memorial Hospital. where they can just call that,” she said. ity, especially when for a Blanchester High more details or visit He has been providing and we can check on In regards to staff, she they showed support for School senior going into their website www.lau- wound treatment with insurance to see what believes they all do a nurse Sara Reifenberger the medical field. At last relsofblanchester.com.

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OH-70056910 OH-70056944 News Journal 2018 progress June 28, 2018 3 CVB: Marketing, bringing tourists to county Clinton County may increase (in tourism),” not seem like the “go-to Valentine-Scott said. Our vacation spot” to some, occupancies are up in our but Clinton County has hotels and we as a county many visitors. continue to do more to The story of Clinton keep the growth moving. County tourism can’t The Roberts Centre “We have many gems be told without talking partnered with P&G to in Clinton County — The about the Clinton County establish the Eukanuba World Equestrian Center, Convention & Visitors Center and dog shows Roberts Center/Holiday Bureau. held there have increased Inn, The Murphy Theatre It got its start with dis- year after year — 2018 is many hotels/attractions, cussions among commu- beyond where they have just to name a few, and nity leaders 18 years ago. been in past and they are one being Cowan Lake The organization’s ori- excited of the growth State Park. One season at gin fell under legislature and future of upcoming Cowan Lake State Park found in the Ohio Revised shows. can bring in 500,000 Code which spelled out Roberts Centre/Holiday people,” she said. the purpose and funding Inn recently underwent a The CVB receives of a Bureau. Funding by major renovation estab- funds to market and a lodging tax imposed on lishing it as one of the advertise from a lodging transient guests staying premier venues right in tax, so the more people Courtesy photos in our hotels and cabins the middle of three major who come to stay in the Sailboats on Cowan Lake. was established — 3 per- cities. county, the more money cent collected by those The World Equestrian the CVB will have. “That ing on video footage and properties found within Center also has added money that comes into building up their photo the city limits and anoth- 36 cabins and 73 mobile us, we use that for every- library to better engage er 3 percent collected by trailers making it a pre- thing from paying the with their audience and those properties found mier horse show facil- rent to our salaries to display all the wonderful within Clinton County ity pulling an array of electricity, and then the things there are in Clin- but outside the Wilming- visitors into the Clinton bulk of it then goes into ton County. ton city limits. County market. the marketing and pro- The Clinton County The Clinton County moting Clinton County,” Info for locals, too Convention & Visitors Conventions & Visitors she said. In addition to help- Bureau was designated as Bureau began in 1998 to With 400 hotel rooms ing visitors, the CVB the recipient of said lodg- market events and places in the county, the goal is helps local residents as ing tax with its purpose to go to in the county to get all potential visi- well, especially with lit- being the marketing of and to keep track of how tors to stay the night in erature on destinations places in the county for many people visited. Clinton County, Valen- throughout Ohio. Those Family friendly events are happening throughout the year in people to visit, thereby The CVB now has tine-Scott said. are free, so residents Wilmington. supporting the lodging a fairly new executive “Clinton County works can visit the CVB, 13 N. facilities and economic director, Susan Valentine- closely with the Ohio South St., Wilmington, spending. Scott. Susan comes with Travel Association and and learn more about This cyclical model many years of hotel promotes through the the Buckeye State as a works. When the Bureau’s experience. She has state and national level. whole or any local infor- marketing brings in been a General Manager We work closely with mation. We also have a increased spending in the and Director of Sales & them and as a whole we list of events for 2018. county as more people Marketing for Marriott cross market the state In the end, the main overnight at our lodging and IHG properties from of Ohio. We get to know goal of the CVB is to facilities, this provides Ann Arbor, Mich., South other CVB directors and always increase tourism additional lodging tax for Bend, Ind. and Ohio. She work with them in help- and revenue for Clinton the organization to invest grew up in a neighbor- ing one another bring County. She and the in more marketing. ing county Fayette and business into our mar- board are excited for the The last few years understands the region, kets. new things to come and have seen a shift in the and is exploring new The CCVB is currently they are working dili- Bureau’s marketing aimed opportunities for Clinton working on a new visi- gently to present Clin- to unique shows to our County. tors guide for the bureau. ton County to the best facilities. “We have seen quite an They are currently work- level yet. The World Equestrian Center. OH-70056918 4 June 28, 2018 2018 progress News Journal Kratzer’s is truly your Hometown Pharmacy

Mark Kratzer, owner of Kratzer’s Hometown Pharmacy in Wilming- ton, has been keeping himself busy this past year all the while main- taining his business values. Kratzer along with Marcus Barr of Home- town Pharmacy opened Barr’s Hometown Pharmacy in Xenia on John Hamilton | News Journal Kratzer’s Hometown Pharmacy, located at 179 W. Locust St. in Oct. 20. This makes Wilmington. the fourth Hometown Pharmacy store, along with Downtown Drug want to be treated” was one patient who had in Hillsboro and Town when it comes to his two items, their co-pay Drug in Sabina which customers. for one was $250 and had a grand re-opening “We had a patient the other was $260. We in September 2016. come in who needed found a coupon for they While Kratzer is still Courtesy photo assistance on his were eligible for. They Mark Kratzer, center, with John Covello, left, of the Independent Pharmacy Cooperative and State affiliated with Barr, he Rep. Scott Lipps at the annual Ohio Pharmacists Association (OPA) Convention in April where Kratzer insulin. So, we referred went from paying almost still owns 100 percent of received the 2018 OPA Good Government Award for contributions to the public through government him to Heather’s Hope $500 to paying only his pharmacy. and legislation service. (Diabetes Foundation) about $50 for it,” he said. He was also the recipi- which helps pay for The hours at Kratzer’s ent of the 2018 Ohio ing laws to help combat for all pharmacists and to reverse that. We medication for diabetics Hometown Pharmacy Pharmacist Association Pharmacy Benefit Man- pharmacies in the State have some bills in the needs,” he said. “Instead are 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (OPA) Good Govern- agers (PBM). of Ohio and nation- House right now that of me making money Monday through Friday, ment Award for contri- According to Kratzer, wide,” he said. would carve out the off his prescription I and from 9:30 a.m. to 1 butions to the Public PBMs control the ben- One state he cited was HMO Medicaid back instead help that patient p.m. on Saturday. through Government efits of four of the five Kentucky which, accord- to traditional Medicaid get their medication for It is located at 179 and Legislation Service HMOs for Ohio Medic- ing to him, is getting hit which guarantees a free.” W. Locust Street in at the OPA’s annual aid. hard with the practice of better reimbursement,” The insulin was only Wilmington. The phone April Convention held in “On Oct. 1, they using the high Medicaid he said. one example of how they number is 937-382-0081 Columbus. started reimbursing on to take money from not With the new help patients. and the fax number is He has been working a non-sustainable reim- only independent phar- pharmacy partner and “If a patient comes in 937-655-8774. with State Sen. Bob bursement at or below macies but places like his award, Kratzer still that has a high co-pay we Visit www. Peterson and State Rep. our costs. Right now Kroger. practices the motto of check to see if there’s a kratzerspharmacy.com Scott Lipps in legislat- there are tough times “We’re trying hard “treat others how you coupon for that. There for more information.

Peelle: Brighter days here for local realtors When DHL left the Wilmington Air Park and thousands of jobs disappeared, local real- tor Butch Peelle “knew it wasn’t going to be pretty” for the real estate profession. He was right of course. Looking back now, Peelle calls it “the lon- gest life test I’ve ever been through. We went through six years of struggling to keep the office doors open.” Gary Huffenberger | News Journal It was a very difficult Peelle & Lundy Realtors, Inc. is located at 822 Rombach Ave. in Wilmington. time, with the Clinton County area receiving out of the sky to work at people ever have any moved to Clinton County a “double hit,” he said, Airborne,” said Peelle. money, come back and bypassed Lebanon where referring to the massive In particular, more see me.’ So that was our 20 years ago they typi- loss of air park jobs com- young couples were get- introduction to home cally would have moved, bined with a general eco- ting into homes in the ownership when I was said Peelle. nomic downturn known past 36 months than at teaching school and mak- They’re willing to drive as the Great Recession. any other time in the last ing $6,500 a year. And it another 15 or 20 min- It also was a time 20 years, he said. hurt very deeply.” utes to get into an area when people were scared Probably Butch’s big- Twenty-five percent of like Wilmington “which to build homes or apart- gest passion since get- the people who bought they’ve heard about, ments around here, ting in the real estate homes last year in the which is pretty nonjudg- Peelle said. business is helping Clinton County area mental, which has pretty “We went through people get into their first were coming from one friendly people, and if Courtesy photo eight years when new home because he knows of the villages or munici- you want to get out into This cardboard cutout of Butch Peelle holding a heart sign was houses weren’t built,” he how much it hurts to be palities north of Cincin- the country you drive an eye-catcher outside the Rombach Avenue offices of Peelle & Lundy Realtors, Inc. Wilmington sometimes was referred to as said. turned away. nati, remarked Peelle. five minutes and you’re the poster child of the Great Recession; here we have Wilmington But things have When he was a teacher Towns such as Loveland, in a cornfield.” being offered as the heart of the American comeback from those improved. at Wilmington Junior Goshen, Morrow, Mason Currently, interest hard economic times. The “TCB” at the bottom stands for Taking The year 2016 was a High School, he and his and Mariemont. rates are still excellent, Care of Business. banner year, he said. wife Dollie were trying He believes that is said Peelle. “And last year [2017] to buy a home. They because Warren County No money-down loans everybody around here tors, Inc. with Ken was the strongest year went to a loan officer and is “saturated,” with are available in Clinton qualifies for the no Lundy in 1978. we and other real estate after sitting with him upper-scale prices, upper- County because it is money-down loans, he For more information companies have had for about six minutes, scale grocers, upper-scale designated as part of said. about the firm and its since the early ’90s when “He just stood straight everything, he said. the Appalachian region. Peelle established staff, please visit peelle- mechanics were falling up and said ‘Well, if you These folks who Income-wise, almost Peelle & Lundy Real- lundy.com.

At Royal Z Lanes, we offer 18 high quality newly resurfaced www.wilmingtonsavings.com wood alleys with easy Qubica automatic scoring for family, 184 N. South Street friends, and league bowling. Join Wilmington, OH 45177 a league, have a party, or just 937-382-1659 bowl for fun. At Royal Z Lanes we make it fun for everyone! 137 N. High Street Hillsboro, OH 45133 CALL 937-382-3891 937-366-1421 FOR MORE INFORMATION

OH-70056907 OH-70058292 News Journal 2018 progress June 28, 2018 5 Royal Z Lanes: Good as new, good times, at good rates

Royal Z Lanes in Wilm- past few years, as several ington is a great place highs schools are using to bring your family and the facility, as Royal Z your friends for a nice Lanes hosts Wilmington, time at a reasonable rate. Clinton-Massie, East Clin- They have made great ton and Greeneview high strides in bringing Royal schools’ bowling teams. Z back from the DHL/ “It is nice to see that ed at 2667 E. U.S. 22/3 in Airborne downturn by kids are the reason for Wilmington. Their phone remodeling their center our recent success, since number is 937-382-3891. with new carpet and new they are our future,” they Summer hours (April- flooring done by local say. August) are: Monday business Superior Floor- Royal Z Lanes features noon-9 p.m.; Tuesday ing, and new paint out- 18 high-quality newly closed; Wednesday side done by local busi- resurfaced wood alleys closed; Thursday noon-9 ness Christen Decorating. with easy Qubica auto- p.m.; Friday noon-mid- Other improvements matic scoring for family, night; Saturday noon- include new awnings, friends, and league bowl- midnight; Sunday noon-7 new paint inside, a com- ing. Join a league, have a p.m. They are open seven plete resurfacing of the party, or just bowl for fun. days a week in the winter. lanes, new pro shop, and “We would love to see Royal Z Lanes’ owner is even a new general man- you; if you haven’t been James Savakos, with gen- ager as of March 10. here in a while, you won’t eral manager Shane Ison Bowling is coming back know the place.” and assistant manager News Journal file photo at a promising rate the Royal Z Lanes is locat- Jackie Balon. Royal Z Lanes recently underwent a transformation, including lane resurfacing.

plan. Comeback At his first mayor’s report to Wilmington From page 1 City Council after the announcement, David theme of saving the Raizk began with a deep jobs “and building a sigh and admitted he community fightback,” was harried. The matter, said Tony Olson, he said, is “of grave lead local organizer concern.” for the American More than 8,150 jobs Postal Workers Union This headline in the News Journal the day after DHL’s announcement based at the Wilmington (APWU), AFL-CIO. actually underestimates the number of jobs to be lost. Air Park would be lost. About 125 people This does not count attended that meeting when a company is Bonn, Germany, Books indirect job losses, which was facilitated by losing money, they fire ’n’ More co-owner Dan such as at local hotels Mark Dimondstein, who someone, they don’t fire Stewart hung a sign where pilots were major now is president of the a whole town.” outside the downtown customers. national APWU. Two days after the Main Street shop that In January 2010, as One man there said announcement, then- read: “Save the Jobs, Clinton County and however much money Ohio Lt. Gov. Lee Fisher save our community, sign Wilmington began their DHL had lost the said a task force was a petition here.” bicentennial years, the prior year in its U.S. News Journal photos being planned to address Stewart said he was unemployment rate in These T-shirts seen around Wilmington reflected the fight-back issues related to DHL’s hoping for a resolution Clinton County peaked at operations, the global attitude of Clinton Countians and of DHL employees. DHL Express reported a action. Fisher also served that didn’t eliminate so 20.1 percent, according profit. at the time as director of many local jobs. to the U.S. Bureau of DHL said it lost $900 for 2008. Mike Turner, reported the Ohio Department of By the third week Labor Statistics. million in the United Clinton County’s that in a meeting with Development. of June, almost 6,000 States in 2007, and congressional DHL officials, “I told Less than a week people had signed Reach Gary Huffenberger at 937- projected a higher loss representative, U.S. Rep. them that usually following the news from petitions against DHL’s 556-5768.

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The land bank is just one example of how the Clinton County Port Authority is helping the entire area. The first order of busi- ness was to ensure the viability of the Wilming- ton Air Park. The Board of Directors worked diligently to support the existing Air Park busi- nesses and employees by maintaining the Air Park and airport infrastruc- ture. ment in the Wilmington properties throughout Expanding the role High School football our community. of the Port Author- stadium. The new han- The Port Authority’s ity beyond the Air Park gar enabled AMES to focus on enhancing fences began in short continue to grow its opportunities and aware- order. The Port Author- business and expand its ness of our community ity secured a grant from services. The renovated assets includes partici- the US Economic Devel- stadium benefits not only pating in a state-wide a opment Agency, with the school, but the whole Site Certification pro- matching funds from the community. gram. The Port Author- State of Ohio, to create Working with the ity is shepherding two a local Revolving Loan Clinton County Regional county development Fund. Two local small Planning Commission, sites thorough the pro- businesses were able the Port Authority man- cess toward Site Authen- to expand operations Courtesy photos ages a $200,000 Brown- tication – a process that because of investments The many moves the Port Authority has made and the partnerships that have formed are helping fields Assessment grant enhances the attractive- financed through those Clinton County take off. from the US Environmen- ness of these sites to local revolving loans. leaders in the Ohio Gen- on the exceptional assets, Port Authority is part tal Protection Agency. consultants and prospec- Both businesses continue eral Assembly, Congress, opportunities, educa- of a group working to To date, over 10 projects tive businesses. to operate successfully in and the U.S. Senate – tional institutions, and maximize economic have received funding Eight years ago, seven our community. along with collaboration partnerships that make development resources, for environmental assess- dedicated volunteers Marketing the Wilming- with entities such as the our community unique programs, and opportuni- ments. Once assessed, stepped up to own and ton Air Park as a location Dayton Development and special. ties to support growth properties can be more manage a huge, compli- of choice and a diversi- Coalition, JobsOhio, the This is an effort that in all areas and all sec- easily marketed and/or cated and needy asset. fied employment center Ohio Economic Develop- is ongoing. Eight years tors of our community’s remediated, to facilitate They worked to quickly became a top priority. ment Association – the later, the Port Authority economy. redevelopment and reuse. hire staff, understand That activity included Port Authority is proud actively participates in The legal structure of Similarly, the Port an airport and create sharing the story of the to have played a role in county-wide economic the Port Authority affords Authority is engaged in a network within, and assets of our entire com- securing resources and development activities. it more latitude to pursue another joint project with beyond, the community. munity – Wilmington opportunities for our Collaborating with the a variety of economic the Regional Planning Today, a set of seven and Clinton County – community. City of Wilmington, the development options and Commission – address- different dedicated vol- throughout the region, The Port Authority has Board of County Commis- opportunities. One such ing blight by supporting unteers continues that the state, and beyond. worked with these groups sioners, the Chamber of tool is “conduit financ- Land Bank mortgages. work – and have expand- Leveraging resources and others, to change the Commerce, Main Street ing,” which was used to The program allows the ed the Clinton County and resource partners, conversation and percep- Wilmington, Regional facilitate construction of Land Bank to access Port Authority’s efforts including local commu- tion of our community – Planning, the Visitor’s a new hangar at the Air state funds designated – on behalf of our entire nity leadership, elected and shine a brighter light Bureau and more, the Park, as well as reinvest- to clean up deteriorated community. At Laurel Oaks, you can be Atwho Laurel you Oaks, were you canmeant be to be. Be creative. who you wereRepair, paint andmeant customize automobiles to inbe. Automotive Be creative.Collision Technology or show your technical creativity in Be Repair,creative.Digital paint Arts and andcustomize Design automobilesor Web Applications in and Game Repair,Automotive paintDevelopment. and customize Collision automobiles Technology in Automotive or show your At LaurelCollisiontechnical Technology creativityOaks, or show inyour Digital technical you Arts creativity and can Designin or be Digital Arts and Design or Web Applications and Game Development.Web ApplicationsBe constructive. and Game Development. Build homes and structures using a wide range of who Beyou Beconstructive. constructive.construction were skills meant through Construction to Technologies, be. Heavy BuildBuild homes Equipmenthomesand structures and Operations, structuresusing a wide usingrange or Welding. of a wide range constructionBe creative. skills through Construction Technologies, Heavy EquipmentofRepair, construction Operations, paint and customize or skills Welding. through automobiles Construction in Automotive Collision Technology or show your technical creativity in Technologies,Digital Arts and Design Heavy or Web Equipment Applications Operations, and Game or Welding.Development.Be caring. Be caring.Share your love of horses in Equine Science and Management, Share your love of horses in Equine Science and Management, your dedicationBe constructive.your to childrendedication in Early to childrenChildhood in Education, Early Childhood or Education, or your BeinterestBuild homescaring.your in health andinterest throughstructures in Dental healthusing aAssisting. widethrough range ofDental Assisting. Shareconstruction your skills love through of horses Construction in Equine Technologies, Science Heavy and Equipment Operations, or Welding. (InterestedManagement, in(Interested something your else? in something dedication Check out all else? ourto children programs Check atoutin Early all our programs at www.greatoaks.com/hs) ChildhoodBe caring.www.greatoaks.com/hs) Education, or your interest in health throughShare your Dental love of horses Assisting. in Equine Science and Management, Limited space still availableyour dedication for to children in Early Childhood Education, or fall. ApplyLimited now! space(Interested yourstill interest available in in health something through for Dental else? Assisting. Check out all our Contactfall. Bill Davis Apply at now!programs(Interested in at something www.greatoaks.com/hs) else? Check out all our programs at [email protected] or 937.655.5407www.greatoaks.com/hs)Be successful. Contact Bill Davis at [email protected] or 937.655.5407 Limited space still available for Be successful. fall. Apply now! Contact Bill Davis at [email protected] or 937.655.5407 Be successful. OH-70058954 8 June 28, 2018 2018 progress News Journal

Courtesy photos The Smith Funeral Home on the 300 block of North South Street in Wilmington (U.S. 68) is more than As it looks today, the Smith Funeral Home in Wilmington. a century old, and was a residence when this photograph was taken. Smith Funeral Homes adapts with the times Smith Funeral Homes Presently, there are don’t involve vaults and as a lifelong career, Niki service for years before have been in Clinton only a few cemeteries in the graves are not marked said they will definitely local fire departments County for 70 years, hav- Ohio where “a true green with upright monuments, come away from the expe- starting having life ing begun in 1948 in New burial” is allowed, none though a tree may be rience knowing how to squads. Jim kept on as Vienna where they remain of which are in Clinton planted. serve and how to work. a volunteer fireman and to this day. In 1973, the County. But there are The closest cemetery With seven kids, there’s an EMT for years after business was expanded some green-friendly allowing true green buri- a pretty good shot one the private ambulance to Wilmington on North cremation options, doing options that can be done, als is Yellow Springs, and of them will extend the service was no longer South Street to a building green-friendly burials, said Shane. Smith Funeral Homes can family tradition of funeral needed. that originally was a resi- and doing pet cremations. Niki said Smith Funeral do burials there. service to a fourth genera- Smith Funeral Homes dence and at one point a “We’ve been doing cre- Homes have some really Shane said he would be tion, chuckled Niki. offer a variety of services nursing home, and now is mations for many years, close options to the green happy to talk to anybody The common thread including traditional ser- more than a century old. but it has become more burial that they have who has questions about through the decades is “a vices held in the funeral Funeral Directors and and more of a requested researched and been able the green-friendly buri- heritage of caring,” said home or other location, husband-and-wife Shane service,” Shane said. to find. als that Smith Funeral Niki. visitation and view- C. Smith and Tricia There are many options “We have some options Homes can provide. “That is what the Smith ing, graveside services, “Niki” Smith carry on a available with cremations, available where we can Shane and Niki have Family is known for, serv- memorial services, mili- family tradition and com- he added. still meet requirements of seven children, ranging ing the community and tary services, and direct prise the third generation There are, he said, a lot cemeteries around here, in age from 22 to 7. A caring for them in a bad burials where there is no of the Smith Family to of personalization options but still do a green-friend- couple of the children time of life when fac- service or visitation. operate the local funeral with cremation, and also ly burial,” said Shane. work at the funeral homes ing the death of a loved They also offer pre- homes. different types of memo- To give a person an part-time while they’re one,” she said. arrangements. “We’ve adapted with rial services that can be idea of “a true green going through school. Shane’s father James For Smith Funeral the times,” said Niki. conducted with them. burial,” it is basically Though they’re not sure E. “Jim” Smith and Homes, their four key- Among the more recent The Smiths elaborated where the body returns yet whether they want to grandfather L. Eugene stone words are family, adaptations are expanded on green-friendly burials. back to the earth. They pursue the funeral service Smith ran an ambulance heritage, quality, service.

some lifelong rela- said Garner. Garner’s story turns Rick Moreton, Sabina “Things have gotten Rebounded tionships and still As a 15-year brighter in 2015 when “My last day was May better with all this going have friends from employee, he he was hired full-time at 1, 2009. I had over 28 on. Meeting a lot of folks From page 1 there today.” received 16 weeks Dealertrack in Wilming- years with Airborne at these places. Everyone of severance pay ton. Financially he said Express/ABX Air. It was knows I have not met a Meanwhile, husband James Garner, or basically four he’s doing a lot better. A a great run. I was work- stranger and I talk way Bill had been working Wilmington months worth, senior document agent, ing in the Base Shop too much.” part-time evenings at Air- When he was Garner when he left in he is making ends meet. area as an Electrical borne in sort along with 16, James Garner December 2008. “Took seven years to Component Technician. Jason Quirk, Van Wert his other vocations. started working at the Though he had this get there. Went through a “This is what I didn’t County, Ohio Deanna was a mate- air park on Saturdays “window of severance” couple of dead-end jobs to imagine happening. I “I had been with Air- rial assistant until 2009, and Sundays as a “teen to find a job, the Great get to the one that I think thought for sure I would borne/DHL from just when she “was the last sorter” with a work per- Recession was at its might be where I’m going get my 40-plus years in after high school gradu- one out the door” in her mit. Being a juvenile, depth and, says Garner, to be for a long time,” he and retire around 65. ation until July 2009. department. he was not allowed to “there was no job to be said. Being 50 and in a wheel- I worked in the sort, “I really liked my job,” be on equipment. When had.” chair — a double nega- then Airborne logistics,” she said. “Great benefits, he graduated from high He went to the Transi- Dawn Gunkel, Wilmington tive looking for a new Jason Quirk told the and great people,” she school, he moved to tion Center that had been Dawn Gunkel has been job — was not fun. News Journal. “I was said. working through the set up for displaced work- the News Journal circu- “It put my wife and I a lead over an account “When DHL came in week at night, receiving ers. He got certified in lation supervisor since in a big jam. I started that sorted eyewear for we thought everything full-time benefits and Microsoft Word, Micro- 2013. The WHS grad looking for jobs from Walmart and shipped would be great,” she said. getting in 30-some hours soft Excel, Microsoft was a third-shift lead Blue Ash to Grove City to their stores. The last “But then we discovered weekly. PowerPoint, and he took ground sorter with ABX, to Dayton. Plenty of job nine months I was able to it wouldn’t be so great After about four years, a resume-writing class. where she worked for 17 fairs, group and phone stay employed by tearing when DHL made the he became a Cushman He was on unemploy- years. interviews, one-on-one down racking and clear- announcement in Germa- driver at the air park ment from April 2009 to She had started there interviews and internet ing out offices of laid-off ny that they were doing hauling “exceptions” May 2010 when he got an in 1992 to make money searching on Indeed … supervisors. away with everything and which he said were out-of-county job where for college, and she nothing. I am sure when “After my let-go date, we’d all be without jobs. the bigger boxes that he didn’t work every day earned a two-year degree you are disabled what I was unemployed for That caught us all by sur- couldn’t be put on the and which, he said, he from Southern State. all companies do first about a month. I took the prise.” conveyor belt. As a “grew to hate that job.” But the job and the is to see what you will first job I was offered, She said that was a Cushman driver, he was He was there until March money were so good at cost them insurance-wise driving to Columbus five challenging time for the outdoors a lot, including 2014 when he got a pizza ABX that she made it and what modifications and six days a week. This Liermanns, especially in winter. delivery job with Cassa- her career as she and to their work area. It was the time when gas since their son Scott, “I liked it enough nos in Wilmington. her husband, who works stressed both us and our passed $4 per gallon. then a WHS freshman, and the pay was right. “It wasn’t bad work at R+L Carriers, raised family members out and “I worked at Essilor in had just been accepted I could afford to make but it wasn’t well paid. I their two boys. started playing with my Columbus for over two as a People to People house payments on didn’t do bad on tips, but Then came the mind. Good thing I had years. I eventually found Ambassador to Europe, that money,” which he it was minimum wage. announcement. my two dogs to keep me work closer, in Washing- but “we got it figured described as comparable But it was ‘a job is a job’ “We had started seeing company when Steph ton Court House at the out,” she said. to 40-hour wages. kind of thing,” he said. the writing on the wall, went to work. Wal-Mart distribution Deanna said they were He suggests that DHL Meanwhile, although he but we never thought the “I decided to look for a center. I worked there for fortunate that she had tried to do too much too was able to keep the utili- ground sort would go,” part-time job. I can work three years until I met been there 22 years (and fast when it established ties going, over time he she said. “It was a shock so many hours without the woman who I would that Bill had only worked its North American couldn’t make his house when it came down one it affecting my SSDI, eventually marry. there part-time); she was superhub in Wilmington. payments. He asked his day that I was out of a which I reapplied for and “I moved up to Van paid through October. Garner recalls that father to pay it for him. job,” she said. was put back on. I finally Wert County to start a She said her family got two weeks before DHL’s “I’ve had him bail me “We had just built got a part-time position life with her. I started through that period “as a bombshell announce- out of foreclosure three a house six months at The Nike Factory working at Lakeview team.” ment in May 2008, he times,” he said. before.” Store at the Tanger Out- Farms in Delphos, Ohio. I “It was a really scary was in a celebratory One time they were Even with a few let Mall. A lot folks are have been there for near- time,” she said. “Some mood when he paid off going to foreclose on him months’ severance pay, surprised to see some- ly four years and became entire families worked his last student loan. He for $172, he recalled. “I’m the family had to closely one in a chair advising a lead, then eventually a at ABX. People I worked holds a bachelor’s degree surprised the judge didn’t watch their finances; them on athletic shoes supervisor in their ship- with had to sell their in history from Wilm- laugh at somebody,” Gar- eventually their oldest and clothing. I was our ping department. houses; some even moved ington College, where ner said. son had to leave college. Store Employee of Fiscal “For many years I out of the country to get he attended while also He was on the Save As thousands of work- Year 2017. regarded Airborne as a job.” working at the air park. the Dream foreclosure ers here and in surround- “A lot happened in- the best job I ever had. By June 2010 Deanna Garner heard there prevention program and ing counties became between, though. I I dearly miss my old got a job at R+L carriers, was going to be a big his house payments were unemployed, competition started to volunteer with friends, co-workers, and where she worked until announcement and paid for a year and a half was tight for any job several places just to get management who men- 2015. “I’d learned a lot on the morning of the before reaching the pro- openings; she would be out of the house. First tored me and I grew up about the shipping indus- announcement from gram’s limit. unemployed for a year- was at D & G’s working with. It took 10 years, try in 27 years at ABX”, Germany he went to the He also filed for bank- and-a-half. with Janet Schultz and but I found my place and she said. house in Wilmington ruptcy, related to having She finally got a job at her staff working with success I never quite On Feb. 2, 2015 she where American Postal credit-card wage garnish- a daycare facility, which the dogs, next was to achieved at DHL. started working for the Workers Union organiz- ments. closed after a couple of become a volunteer for “It still breaks my heart Clinton County Auditor’s ers resided. When those “Why do you think that years, before ending up the City of Kettering in every time I get to drive Office in the Real Estate gathered heard DHL’s was? I was unemployed at the News Journal. several positions , then through Wilmington and Division. plan to partner with for a year and a half, liv- “We still have to ‘tight- Little Hearts Big Smiles see the airport. I miss “I enjoyed my time at UPS, there was “a lot of ing on credit cards,” he en our belts’ to this day,” and finally at WALH watching the planes land ABX,” she said. “I made swearing, including me,” said. she said. Radio. and take off.” News Journal 2018 progress June 28, 2018 9 Being mayor of a town in crisis WILMINGTON — Ten dozen schools and train- years ago, one in three ing centers, including households in town had Ohio State, the Univer- someone who worked at sity of Cincinnati, Xavier the DHL Air Park. University, community “You can talk about colleges and technical everything else, but the schools. Some workers impact on people and were even going to school their lives and what are in Kentucky because they going to do was the many retraining classes thing that gnawed at me in the layoff zone were most of all. That’s what I full, the Associated Press would carry to bed with reported. me every night and that’s The city’s population why I didn’t sleep very number of 12,500 has well for several years,” remained relatively stable said David Raizk. Raizk since the latest census in was mayor of Wilmington 2010, said Raizk. when DHL withdrew “I thought that was from the domestic U.S. the greatest testament parcel shipping market. to our community that Courtesy photo He was the mayor there could be. That even Photo portraits of residents, young and old and in-between, were when more than 8,100 though some opportuni- pasted in 2016 on the exteriors of walls downtown, at Denver jobs based at the air park ties disappeared, the Place Elementary and on Rodger O. Borror Middle School walls to were lost. people didn’t disappear. publicize and celebrate the gritty spirit of Wilmingtonians. Nearly One of the things Raizk They liked living in 100 portraits of community members were featured in what was named Project Grit. Here, a longtime local teacher Virgene said he’s most proud of Wilmington. I know some Peterson participates in the project. is the more than $10 people left, but that fact Gary Huffenberger | News Journal million in federal job [population numbers] DHL to donate the air thing. Second, “Is there David Raizk was Wilmington’s mayor when DHL withdrew from the domestic U.S. parcel shipping market, and more than 8,100 jobs training funds that were alone indicates a stability park, to receive assistance any chance you’ll stay in based at the Wilmington Air Park were lost. He remembers those secured for former air that a lot of communities from Washington, D.C. Wilmington, anything we challenging times in an interview marking the 10th anniversary of park employees who were haven’t had in the past,” and Columbus, maybe can renegotiate to keep DHL’s announcement. without a job. Raizk said. even to grab the attention you there?” and Mullen The retraining was In that connection, he of a potential employer said no, we’re leaving. “I guess my feeling was, since I negotiate for critical, he believes, and recalled an illuminated although the general And Raizk’s third ques- a living, I needed to walk out of there with he thinks it really has HoliDazzle parade — economy was also turning tion to the Deutsche Post helped with the recovery perhaps in 2009 — with weak with the simultane- executive, “Well, given something I could hang my hat on, had to in the area, in addition to Randy Riley as emcee ous onset of the Great those things, is there have something that I latched onto like a pit helping the people who and the streets packed Recession. any chance you would bull, and that was to get the airport back and were retrained. and the temperatures As an example of consider giving back the he was very candid, they really didn’t need It’s hard to judge, cold. “On the platform him trying to use his airport from whence it another property” however, because some Randy asked, ‘Does this strengths as a negotia- came?” (Raizk said he — David Raizk, people received retraining look like a ghost town to tor, Raizk talked about mentally kicked himself Mayor of Wilmington when DHL withdrew from the and then got jobs else- you?’ and the crowd just his response to DHL’s at the time for using that where. goes crazy.” bombshell news — an archaic language), and domestic U.S. parcel shipping market “I would be inter- Raizk said he saw his announcement he heard Mullen answered that’s a ested in seeing how that role at the time of the in person at parent corpo- possibility, I’m thinking [retraining] impacted crisis as threefold: Keep ration Deutsch Post head- something can be worked much community invest- the negative impact on things, to see some quan- Wilmington on page 1 quarters in Germany. out. ment both emotionally city government was a tification about how that around the country for He told company offi- “I guess my feeling was, and financially” to not get great concern for Raizk, really impacted things,” leverage; use his ability as cials he had to have a since I negotiate for a liv- control of it. though secondary to the Raizk said in a recent a negotiator; and marshal meeting with the head of ing, I needed to walk out That belief also served hardships of people. interview marking the the resources the com- the corporation as soon of there with something as something of the basis With so many Wilm- 10-year anniversary of the munity would undoubt- as possible, and he got it I could hang my hat on, for both of Raizk’s con- ingtonians jobless, the city’s jobless crisis. edly need by pounding that afternoon with John had to have something gressional testimonies: If revenue from the city’s An Associated Press on every elected or Mullen, one-on-one, in that I latched onto like a they’re leaving, then they income tax would inevita- report in September appointed official’s door Mullen’s office on the pit bull, and that was to owe the community the bly fall off. 2009 stated workers to seek a hand-up — not 43rd floor. Raizk had get the airport back and airport so that it can be Fortunately, the air displaced from the air hand-outs, as the phrase three questions. First, he was very candid, they redeveloped. park had been annexed park had gotten funding at the time put it. “Do you have an actual really didn’t need another into the city limits after for retraining from mul- As long as the city deal with UPS?” Mul- property,” Raizk recalled. City Hall and its budget DHL arrived but before it tiple sources, including a occupied the forefront len’s reply was that he He said he felt the air In addition to the left, providing a boost to national emergency grant. for the news media, the was “confident” those park was “just too valu- impact on the many They were attending five chances were better for two parties had some- able a resource, with too unemployed residents, See crisis | 21 New campus, partnerships for Southern State Throughout the years, field, which offers (SSCC) and Antioch Southern State Com- excellent employment University Midwest munity College has gone opportunities. (AUM) partnered to through many changes, increase access and but one thing will never New Partnership Expands affordability to a four- change — our commit- Aviation Education year college education ment to our students. Southern State Com- by establishing 3+1 Keep your eye on us, as munity College (SSCC) pathway options we continually strive to and Antioch Univer- for students. This offer you an accessible, sity Midwest (AUM) agreement allows affordable, high quality announced a new partner- students to take a total education. Learn more ship to expand aviation of three years of college about your community education in the region. courses at Southern college at www.sscc.edu, This exclusive transfer State and one year at and check out our newest agreement complements Antioch University changes: an existing partnership Midwest to obtain between SSCC and Great both an associate and Architect Selected for Oaks Career Campuses. bachelor degree. Adams County Campus What does this mean for The 3+1 pathway Plans for a new students interested in avi- guides between the two Southern State campus ation? It means a direct institutions are available are well under way. route from an associate allowing students to BHDP Architects degree to a bachelor’s complete 90 credit has been selected degree to an aviation hours at Southern State for Southern State career. and 30 credit hours Community College’s Courtesy photo Students can start by at Antioch University prospective campus in The Southern State Community College North Campus in Wilmington. earning an Associate of Midwest. Southern State Adams County near West Applied Science (AAS) and Antioch University Union. design of the new space. a learning lab and Campus in Wilmington degree in Engineering: Midwest faculty and Primarily because of “The construction greenhouse, allowing for that can seamlessly Aviation Maintenance advisors work jointly supportive state funding, phase could take about an experiential learning transfer into a bachelor’s through the partnership with students to advise the college can construct 12 months,” said Dr. environment. degree program at between Great Oaks appropriate courses to the facility without Kevin Boys, SSCC The facility opened for Wilmington College — and Southern State. meet the pathway course incurring additional President, “which could classes Spring Semester. with an opportunity to Then they can enroll to requirements. debt. In all, the state’s position us to open the reside on WC’s campus all complete the 33 credits Pathways are available capital fund provided Adams County Campus Biotech Partnership Lets fours years. needed for the pathway from Southern State’s $4.25 million to the to students for Fall Students Start at SSCC, The residency option between degree pro- Agriculture Production, project, in addition to Semester 2019.” Live at WC makes Southern State’s grams, through the part- Biotechnology & approximately $750,000 Southern State biotechnology program nership between South- Laboratory Science, in proceeds from the SSCC Opens New Community College and especially appealing for ern State and AUM. This Business Management, sale of the former South Agriculture Facility in Wilmington College have students from outside final step leads to a bach- Information Technology, Campus. Wilmington partnered to increase the institution’s normal elor’s degree in Applied Computer Support Moving forward on the Southern State access and affordability radius for commuters. Technology & Leadership Specialist, Criminal project, college officials opened its new to a four-year college SSCC President through AUM’s hybrid Justice, Cyber Security will use the same process Agriculture Facility education by establishing Kevin Boys said that program of on-campus & Forensics, Early to select a construction on the college’s North a 2+2 pathway option for its relatively new, “but and online courses. Childhood Education, management firm. Campus, 1850 Davids students interested in strong,” program in Human & Social Once a construction Drive, Wilmington. biotechnology. biotechnology would SSCC & AUM Offer New 3+1 Services, Logistics management firm is The new 3,648-square- Students can spend two merge well with WC’s Degree Pathway Management, and in place, the college foot state-of-the-art years taking courses at biology concentration Southern State Paraprofessional can begin plans for the building includes Southern State’s North in the growing biotech Community College Education programs. 10 June 28, 2018 2018 progress News Journal Bus driver to knife maker, it’s been surreal WILMINGTON — use this as a platform.’ It “It just went crazy. I just happened,” he said. became the poster child, “I mean, here’s Scott I guess.” Pelley interviewing me. Ten years ago Michael I shared a sandwich with O’Machearly was let the guy. I mean, it was go from DHL as a bus kind of surreal.” driver, but the next In those 10 years, he thing he knew, he was not only has the knife making TV appearances shop, he also has a all around the globe leather shop to make the and his longtime hobby CBS News | 60 Minutes; used by permission sheaths to go along with became a full-time gig. Michael O’Machearly and his family were profiled in 2008 on CBS the knives, he almost O’Machearly, now News’ “60 Minutes.” has his house paid off, 56, had worked at DHL and he spends time with before for 11 years out helicopter crash in Iraq back and shot a segment his grandson, who he is on the ramps, and when while serving in the for the Early Show, then raising. he was “young and Army in 2003. And he he was interview by a “If he wants to go dumb” he got fired. He talked about his custom German TV station, fishing, we’ll go fishing. was able to come back knife business. a Russian station, a I’ll do the work later,” he later and spent two When the “60 Spanish station, and he said. years as a bus driver — Minutes” segment aired, appeared twice on Mike As for retirement, he until the day was let go. his cell phone, landline, Huckabee’s. has no immediate plans He said he was and email lit up with He thought he for it. amazed that it has been orders. would’ve been nervous “I’ll fall over at the 10 years since DHL “That night I became talking to these grindstone happy left Wilmington; he can a full-time knifemaker,” individuals, but he someday,” he said. Courtesy Photos still remember multiple Michael O’Machearly in his shop in 2018. he said. “I went from a described the experience Overall, he says he’s houses that had signs six-month backlog to a as very cool but also doing OK. and attributes stating “Proud ABX From a weird series Minutes’” Scott Pelley. two-year backlog in one surreal. this to two things. employee lives here.” of circumstances and The interview featured day.” “Sometimes it hit me “I just attribute it to Some houses had four or from a lady telling CBS him talking about how But “60 Minutes” that two tragedies in my God and my son Steven five of them. News about him, as he the job loss would affect wasn’t his only small- life have caused this. looking out for me,” he “That’s when they put put it, the next thing him and his family. He screen appearance. My son dying and me said. me on ‘60 Minutes’,” he he knew he was being talked about his son Two days after the losing my job. I never said interviewed by “60 Steven, who died in a premiere, CBS came said ‘Oh I’m going to Reach John Hamilton at 937-382- 2574

Hete: Employees rose to occasion with hard work, sacrifice WILMINGTON — “It’s still a surprise to me today — the resiliency in the community as a whole — considering the number of jobs that were lost.” Ten years after the DHL meltdown at the air park, Air Transport Services Group CEO Joe Hete said what many around here — other than incurable optimists — have thought: Overall, the resiliency of Clinton Countians in the fallout of a jobless crisis has been remarkable. For his part, Hete attributes it “to the fortitude of the people around here.” Hete was in Florida for a meeting in late May 2008 when he was told that the new head of DHL was coming to Wilmington to see him. So he flew to Columbus and due to time constraints he was brought back to the air park in a little Cessna airplane. In a conference room across the hall from Gary Huffenberger | News Journal Hete’s office, the two At its low after the DHL announcement, ATSG stock was at 12 cents a share. If somebody had then bought $1,000 worth of stock, Joe Hete on the day of his recent News met and Ken Allen told Journal interview calculates that same person would have $187,500 in the value of their stock — an almost 200 times increase. him about DHL’s plan to partner with UPS. “I just looked at him and I couldn’t believe what I was hearing, and I just said, ‘Do you realize how stupid that is?’” Allen was the fourth CEO of DHL in the five years since it purchased Airborne Express, and he wasn’t the person who set up the planned deal with UPS, said Hete. The news — not just of a scale-back, but basically abandoning the Wilmington hub — shocked everyone, he said. Moreover, “It just made zero sense. What are you thinking? You’re going to turn over all your core business to your biggest competitor?” Air Transport Services Group CEO Joe Hete recalls the shock of DHL was losing DHL’s announcement 10 years ago and the after-shocks. hundreds of millions of dollars annually in its operations.” They was going out of style” U.S. operations, and thought the presentation to UPS and FedEx, said Hete said ABX Air tried was very interesting, he Hete. everything to help them said, but didn’t follow Ten years later, DHL out along the way. through on it. is a major customer of Prior to May 2008, After DHL’s bombshell ATSG and ironically Hete went to Germany announcement, the ATSG is a much and gave a presentation balance sheet for their stronger company from on something he U.S. shipping operations a financial standpoint believes would have went from bad to even than it was in 2008. annually meant “a worse as they started One key to ATSG’s huge savings in terms losing their domestic This cartoon from an employee has been posted on the back of Joe Hete’s office door for 10 years of redoing their air U.S. customers “like it See work | 11 now. As a frog tries to strangle the bird that is consuming it, the message reads: Don’t ever give up. News Journal 2018 progress June 28, 2018 11 Naylor’s Furniture: 70 years of loyalty, service

“We try to treat everyone The family continued to honestly and like they’re fam- expand the business, and in ily,” says Tony Naylor, and 1972 built a 20,000 square-foot that’s what Naylor’s Furniture addition. has been doing for the past 70 Through the years, Naylor’s years. Furniture has not only been He says the prices you see blessed to remain a family are their everyday prices; they business; the business also don’t inflate prices then offer feels like family with their items “on sale.” longtime, experienced staff “We have a lot of loyal cus- including Greg Allbright (40 tomers, and we service every- years), Tim Penn (35 years) thing we sell,” Tony said. “The and Doug McKay (10 years). same people you buy from Naylor’s has a long history bring it to your house.” steeped in tradition and tra- Naylor’s also tries to keep ditional values, but they also things simple. pride themselves in keeping up “Buying furniture can be with current trends and offer- daunting,” he said. “We sell ings. furniture a la carte or as a Current trending in uphol- group; it’s up to the customer,” stered furniture are power he said. recliners. Bradford and Grace Naylor “They let you find your entered the furniture business comfort level. You can find the News Journal photos in 1948 in Batavia, expanding spot that’s just right, and even This is one of a huge variety of recliners at Naylor’s Furniture; this model even comes with reading lights and cup holders. the business to Lynchburg in adjust the head rest and lum- 1950. bar support,” he said. “There They expanded to Wilm- is also a wide range of fabrics including, to name a few, ington in 1960, and in 1964 available.” Serta, Vaughan-Bassett, Cat- everything was moved to the Naylor’s also has a wide napper, Jackson, Best Home Wilmington store, which was range of bedding — something Furnishings, Restonic and on four acres of land on US 22/ to fill everyone’ needs, Tony Franklin. Ohio 3. On that land, they built says. Naylor’s makes shopping a 25,000 square-foot store. The store, located at 2291 easy with flexible financing Many customers share their Route 22 & 3 in Wilmington, options customized for you. memories of buying furniture has “Over an Acre of Furni- They also offer the Naylor’s at Naylor’s. One popular early ture Under One Roof!” with Furniture Preferred Customer promotion was the “House “Always Low Prices and FREE Club for savings, discounts Full of Furniture” for $695 — Delivery.” and special sales just for club including stove, refrigerator Naylor’s has everything you members. and dinette, a sofa and chair, need in the latest styles in And they even pay the sales coffee table, two end tables many categories including: tax for veterans and senior and two lamps, and a bed, Living Room; Reclining Furni- citizens. dresser, chest of drawers, mat- ture; Bedroom; Dining Room; For more information, call Home Office; Home Decor; a Naylor’s Furniture at 937-382- tress and box springs. Some News Journal photos customers are still using that Mattress Shop; and more! And 3373 or visit www.naylorsfur- Naylor’s Furniture has a wide range of quality bedding items. furniture! they feature the best brands niture.com.

Mayor: City weathered storm, is on right path WILMINGTON suffered a lot employed working — “I’d say we have since many of at the multiple rebounded very well in their workers complexes. this community,” said weren’t “I would be current Wilmington employees, but surprised if people Mayor John Stanforth sub-contractors. realized how many looking back over the 10 He remembers people actually years since DHL left. how devastating it Stanforth work at the air When DHL pulled out was for the whole park today,” he of Wilmington, Stanforth community. said. was a private citizen He also hated seeing Stanforth credited Joe who owned his own how it was covered in Hete — who Stanforth remodeling business the news — that the said could’ve retired — John Stanforth country was looking at and live a comfy life in Construction — where the city as “poor little Florida but decided to he had 72 employees. old Wilmington.” stay and open another After DHL pulled out, he “I think about my business — and then- ended up with seven. dad living through the Mayor David Raizk, who “There wasn’t any Great Depression. My he said helped keep the work. Those were hard goodness! There’s no city afloat. The busy crossroads of Clinton County — downtown Wilmington is going strong in 2018. conversations. You know, comparison,” he said. But the people he when you have someone Stanforth gives credit gives a lot of credit to Association meeting some empty buildings it. The slow, sustained that has been with you to many individuals are the citizens and up in Akron and heard but they tend to turn growth is what I hope we for years and they’ve in the community for locals who helped other mayors talk over,” he said. have,” he said. done everything you’ve helping revive the the city flourish and about the trouble they As for the future of When asked what he asked them to. When community. weathered the storm. were having with their Wilmington, he believes would tell himself or you sit across the table Among those Especially those who boarded-up properties in that the slow and steady the community 10 years from them and tell them include Dan Evers and brought business to the their downtown areas. path the city is on now is ago if he could, he said ‘I’m sorry, you don’t the members of the city. “I was sitting there the best path. he’d tell them to just do work here anymore,’” Clinton County Port “We hunkered down thinking, ‘That’s not “I was just reading your best and you’ll get said Stanforth. Authority for keeping and we got through it,” an issue for us. We about Nashville and how through it. He said others in the Wilmington Air he said. don’t have boarded- they’re growing so fast construction and Park going with around He had recently up properties in the they can’t keep up with Reach John Hamilton at 937-382- remodeling work 1,300 people currently attended a Mayor’s downtown.’ We’ve got the infrastructure of 2574

group of companies, is a a big player in the certainty, but once he the 767 freighter — and The total number Work good example, said the community. was elected president furthermore it was in of ATSG employees CEO. “When you’re going to and before DHL said demand, Hete said. worldwide a month after From page 10 “We wanted to hold let go as many people as that they were going to Investors and others the 2008 announcement on to as many of those we did, we tried every go back to CVG [Cincin- had figured that without was 11,189. At the survival and success, jobs as we could. But the which way we could to nati/Northern Kentucky DHL, ATSG would go end of first quarter said Hete, was a lot of mechanics over there justify holding on to International Airport], out of business, and 2010, that number had hard work on people’s were at airline industry people.” there was still an oppor- “that’s why [ATSG’s] nosedived to 2,438. At part to come up with a wages and we were now He said, “We have a tunity for somebody to stock value dropped like the end of first quarter restructured business going into the MRO vested stake in the com- put some pressure on to a stone,” he said. 2018, the number of plan for the company. (maintenance, repair munity here. We wanted keep them here in Wilm- At its low, ATSG was ATSG employees stood Another key is the and overhaul) business to preserve the commu- ington, Ohio, and noth- at 12 cents per share — at 3,423 (roughly a contributions by all the and the MRO business nity as best we could, ing ever happened.” actually less than the 1,000 more than eight retained employees to is a whole different and as many jobs as we value of one airplane. years ago). ensure the company’s animal. So, many of the could, so that was a key Rebuilding the company As for company survival by accepting mechanics ended up driver for us.” While the willingness Looking at the numbers, revenue, in 2008 ATSG’s less benefits and less taking 20, 30 percent One thing that “still of employees to accept then and now revenue was $1.6 billion. pay, he added. pay cuts,” he said. sticks in my craw to this less compensation and A month after the In 2010, it had dropped Everybody across the Mechanics who day” is what Hete views the willingness of people announcement in 2008, to $667 million. And in board took pay cuts. In were retained at the as a lack of involvement to give “an inordinate ATSG had a total of 2017, revenue had risen addition, the unionized air park probably from President Obama amount of time” 122 planes in its fleet. to $1.07 billion. pilots at ABX and the took the biggest hit after he promised in reworking the company’s At the end of first “So we built the rest of the employees in compensation, said Dayton during the 2008 business plan were key, quarter 2010, when company back up,” said contributed by going Hete. presidential campaign ultimately the most ATSG had completed Hete. along when the company He said there was that he would take up crucial factor for the its restructuring and In terms of profit, froze their defined an effort to hold on to the cause. company’s survival was also had signed a new ATSG finished 2008 at benefit pension plans as much of the core “Did you ever see having the 767 freighter deal with DHL, the $35 million; finished which helped ATSG with competencies developed Obama come here? Did aircraft as an asset, he Wilmington-based 2010 at $63 million; and cash flow. by ATSG and Airborne you ever hear anything said. corporation had 66 total finished last year at $96 AMES (Airborne Express over the years out of Obama to try to The basis for the planes in service. At million. Maintenance & as possible in order to salvage a deal at that business plan essentially the end of first quarter Engineering Services), salvage jobs because point in time? No. I can’t was that ATSG had an 2018, there were 70 Reach Gary Huffenberger at 937- one part of the ATSG they knew they were say with any degree of asset nobody else had — planes in service. 556-5768. 12 June 28, 2018 2018 progress News Journal OH-70057625 News Journal 2018 progress June 28, 2018 13 OH-70057625 14 June 28, 2018 2018 progress News Journal WC’s influence ripples throughout the community Annual economic impact approaching $50 million

Recollections of 10 years ago — the summer of 2008 — hearken some uncertain days for Wilmington and Clinton County. When DHL announced its intention to pull out of Wilm- ington — and take with it 10,000 jobs — our community was thrust into the national spotlight. It became the face for the national economic recession. CBS 60 Minutes and other news crews converged upon Wilmington, as did 2008 presidential candidates John McCain and Barack Obama, along with Gov. Ted Strick- land, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown and other politicians from the state and national levels. The Center for Sport Sciences, which opened in 2015, is home to WC’s athletic training, sport management, exercise science and coaching areas. The facility features an Athletic Training Clinic on par with ones for professional sports teams, along with an indoor and outdoor turf field and four professional clinics: Beacon Then WC President Dan Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine, Chiropractic Care of Cincinnati, Clinton Memorial Hospital Imaging and Sports Medicine Center, and Drayer Physical Therapy DiBiasio was among the local Institute. community leaders who, in summer 2008, called for a cooperative effort in dealing story that reached around with the economic calamity the world. Nearly 10 years and moving forward together. later, the community gardens He said that, “By bring- remain a part of summers at ing together groups that do Wilmington College. not always work effectively Also, a resilient community together, for example, labor has come a long way since and management, Republi- 2008 and so has Wilmington cans and Democrats, city and College. county officials, and primary, Jim Reynolds, who suc- secondary and post-secondary ceeded DiBiasio as president educators, it is far more likely in summer 2011, led the that the whole of this effort institution’s largest, concur- will be greater than the sum rent, building program since of its parts.” the 1960s with the renova- DiBiasio committed the tion/expansion project that resources of the College to became the Center for the “all who may benefit from Sciences and Agriculture and them.” WC quickly became the construction of the Center the venue for meetings of the for Sport Sciences, a unique task force set up to determine public/private partnership. the best way forward. That Gifts secured as part of WC’s summer and fall 2008, with successfully concluded $21.2 the November elections in million Leave Your Mark clear sight, presidential can- fundraising campaign funded didates and other government much of the building boom. officials were part of a steady The College also is becom- stream of visitors who came ing well known for its hands- to campus to address the on learning and leadership DHL pullout and economic development opportunities downturn. in that, while working closely The Center for the Sciences and Agriculture opened in 2016 to rave reviews as the College’s largest academic facility Wilmington College was with a caring faculty and featuring numerous labs, classrooms and offices, as well as two greenhouses and an astronomical observatory. far from immune to the effect staff, students often realize of losing the county’s largest life-transforming experiences. employer. Many families with As agriculture is a major observance and Black History employment connections to employer and economic force Month/Women’s History the Air Park were faced with in Clinton County, agricul- Month celebrations provide the new financial challenges ture has become the Col- the community with many of having a child in college. lege’s largest academic area venues for entertainment, WC’s emerging work-study with 25 percent of the main enlightenment and cultural program with ABX Air — campus enrollment study- appreciation. which made a WC education ing agri-business, agronomy, The College also fields more affordable for 60 stu- agricultural communications, 18 intercollegiate sports, dents — was terminated upon animal science or the area including equestrian, all of DHL’s departure. of plant, environmental and which are available for public “The economic threat to soil. A minor in sustainability viewing. our country and region is real, focuses on the social, political Finally, the presence of but the final outcome remains and environmental consider- a small college has a great unclear,” DiBiasio said. ations regarding food produc- impact on Wilmington and “What is very clear, how- tion and the College’s newest Clinton County’s economy to ever, are the lessons we have academic concentration deals the tune of $46.5 million. already learned about the with food policy and agricul- A study conducted by the Dr. Douglas Woodmansee, professor of biology, works in the lab with a biology power of true partnership tural advocacy. University of Cincinnati’s student engaged in a hands-on learning independent research. and the strength of effective The sport sciences area Economics Center found community engagement,” he is approaching agriculture Wilmington College to be a added. “We will continue to in popularity, as its flagship major economic driver when vigorously apply those les- component, athletic training, considering its hand in 745 sons.” remains a marque program jobs in the county, as well as Indeed, the College reached with expectations of soon the institution’s operations, out to the community in hosting a Master of Science student spending and capital significant ways. One of the In Athletic Training course expenditures. most prominent was the of study. Also, several college The research, which focused establishment of its Grow ranking organizations have on the 2015-16 academic Food, Grow Hope Community selected WC’s sport manage- year, indicated a $46.5 million Gardens initiative, which used ment major as among the best impact in the county largely local agricultural resources in the nation, while the newer through direct expenditures to address community needs area of exercise science is and the purchases of its resulting from the economic gaining traction and coaching employees and students. crisis. Its central purpose was is WC’s largest minor. “Wilmington College is to increase the capacity of Wilmington College embedded in the local com- our citizens to provide food continues to be an munity and economy of Clin- for their families. Toward that educational and cultural ton County,” the study pro- end, the Community Gardens pillar in the community. Its claimed. “While the College’s Project created a network College-Community Summer main function is to educate of area food producers who Theatre is a recognized gem its students, it directly and helped supply food to those in producing popular musicals indirectly supports the local need and to local markets. starring local talent for, as economy through purchases, The wide-ranging Grow of this summer, 46 years. as well as its ability to retain Food, Grow Hope initiative The community continues to students and workers, who not only helped paint a more enjoy attending Music Dept. then expend money in the optimistic picture for those in concerts and WC Theatre’s county.” need but also garnered high three student productions President Jim Reynolds said profile publicity that not only during the academic year, the study aptly illustrates the shined a light on the plight while Harcum Gallery wide-ranging multiplier effect of an area adversely impacted hosts five exhibits annually, WC contributes in the local by massive job loss, but also including ones featuring community. portrayed a resilient, forward- local artists. The Meriam “The College has long been thinking community. R. Hare Quaker Heritage — and correctly so — per- Major feature stories on the Center and Peace Resource ceived as a beacon for higher gardens appeared in Colum- Center regularly feature education and cultural oppor- bus, Dayton and Cincinnati compelling exhibits and the tunities in Wilmington, Clin- newspapers, radio and TV, as College’s Issues & Artists ton County and southwest Courtesy photos Series, Food Symposium/ Ohio, but this study especially A bird’s-eye view features local persons working garden plots with assistance by well as such national media master gardeners in summer 2009, the inaugural year of WC’s Grow Food, Grow NBC News, People magazine Earth Day, Westheimer accentuates its role as an eco Hope Community Gardens, an initiative developed in response to the DHL pullout and an Associated Press Peace Symposium, MLK and national economic downturn. News Journal 2018 progress June 28, 2018 15 Laurel Oaks and its students moving forward The 2017-2018 year was an eventful one at Laurel Oaks Career Cam- pus. The Wilmington career-technical campus, a public high school which serves 11th and 12th graders primarily from Clinton, Fayette, and Highland counties (as well as portions of other counties), saw its enrollment increase by 8% to 656 students. Students also earned hundreds of professional certifications along with thousands of hours of college credit—all while still in high school. Other highlights: Students compete at state and national level Twenty students showed their profession- al skills and qualified for state and national com- petition in a variety of Courtesy photos fields. Students in Health Outstanding students are many at Laurel Oaks Career Campus in Wilmington. Technology, Early Child- hood Education, Exercise Clinton Massie along Science and Sports Medi- with Jaebreon Burns cine, Cosmetology and and Saundra Shannon, Digital Arts and Design seniors from Wilmington attended the competi- each earned a Silver tions, which are held by Medal for the event Cur- national career-technical riculum Unit Develop- student organizations ment. Saundra Shannon as a way for students also earned a Gold Medal to demonstrate their and a trophy for best knowledge, be evaluated in the State for Specific by experienced profes- Task Assessment Kit. sionals, and meet like- Sarah Wilson used her minded students from skills and knowledge other schools. to qualify national Several of those stu- competition in Dallas. dents were among the The Laurel Oaks Health best in Ohio. Technology student Three Laurel Oaks stu- from Greenfield McClain dents in the Early Child- earned the chance to hood Education earned attend the International medals in their events at Conference for the Ohio Family, Career, HOSA—Future Health and Community Leaders Professionals based on of America (FCCLA) her performance at state State Leadership Confer- competition, where she ence. Courtney Lamb, Laurel Oaks junior from See forward | 21 The Aviation Maintenance Technician program has partnered with Delta Airlines.

Sky’s the limit: Wilmington Air Park thriving It has been, to borrow a line from The Beatles, a “long and winding road.” It was a long road investment of over $10 through 24 months of million in infrastructure- uncertainty and pain, related costs at the including 14 months Air Park. At least of negotiations to another $20 million has secure local control of been invested in new what was the largest facilities, improvements, privately-owned airport and other assets. This in the world. As a result, investment came from our community has Clinton County Port retained control of this Authority revenue and economic development leveraging those funds asset, and our future and opportunities to opportunities. secure outside grant It was a winding dollars and private road, understanding investment. It has made the complexity and a difference, at the magnitude of this Air Park, and for our amazing asset, in order tenants. to begin to reconfigure We owe a debt and restructure. What of gratitude to our has resulted is strong extraordinary tenants: working relationships ATSG, AMES, LGSTX with tenants and service Courtesy photos Services, CAM, ATI, providers, improvements The air park features “strong working relationships with tenants and service providers, improvements to infrastructure, and a broader ABX Air, JMCC, Global to infrastructure, and vision of how the Wilmington Air Park can serve our community.” Flight Services, Santa a broader vision of Rosa Systems, Robert A. how the Wilmington Schuerger Law Offices, Air Park can serve our AVI, and the Clinton community, and our County Port Authority. businesses, through Their commitment, diversification, dedication, and flexibility, and collaboration has collaboration. benefitted our journey It was a long down this road, and and winding road, we’ve traveled much of beginning operations it together. of the Wilmington Air Recognized as the Park with a base of Ohio Airport of the year 700 employees, four in 2015, recognized businesses, and a few as the home of the flights a week – during Ohio Airport Manager the most significant of the Year in 2017, recession since the great and recognized most depression. recently as the home Today, on-site of the Ohio Airport employment has nearly Business of the Year in doubled in eight years 2018, the Wilmington – and the number The Wilmington Air Park’s operations meet the same FAA standards as large commercial airports across the country. Air Park is continuing of businesses based along a long, and here has tripled. The 350 flights occurred in handled those flights. As a result of this our operations meet the sometimes winding, Wilmington Air Park is 2017, and that number Just ask the LGSTX type of dedication, the same FAA standards road of success and home to 12 businesses, continues to increase. Services employees Wilmington Air Park’s as large commercial growth. and over 1,300 It is a long (but not who paint the lines to airport is certified by airports across the For our tenants, our employees of those winding) road down the specific and exacting the FAA as a Part 139 country. prospects, and our organizations. Over 10,701-foot runway that standards! Airport. That means The road has included community. 16 June 28, 2018 2018 progress News Journal

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175 Cape May Drive | Wilmington, Ohio 45177 937.382.2995 | ohioliving.org EOE News Journal 2018 progress June 28, 2018 17 Pot-Luck Greenhouse has come a long way Karla. The two of them Expanding crops and labored together and family friendly events the business prospered. They were blessed with five sons, all of whom When Pot-Luck were required to do Greenhouse first opened their part of producing its doors to customers the crops. in April of 1978, owner The second setback Steve Collett didn’t quite came in January of 1995. know what to expect. A fire destroyed the While he knew there sales room and much of was a market for quality the greenhouse space. plant material for the Once again Steve and homes and gardens of Karla labored to get Clinton County, it was another structure up in the idea of being in order to grow that all business for himself that important spring crop. he was unsure of. The next disaster Would people support came over Christmas a local small business? in 2004. A severe ice Could he really make a and snow storm again living doing something leveled over half of the he enjoyed? total growing area. This He plunged ahead and time a total rebuild was built the first of many necessary. Two-thirds greenhouses over the of the growing space News Journal file photos summer of 1977. was bulldozed and a Kids jump (and bounce) for joy at Pot-Luck’s A-Maze-ing Fall Festival. Setbacks were to be new structure was put expected. And they into place. It went up were not long coming. in record time and was Many will remember the ready to plant in March blizzard of 1978. Steve of the next year. will never forget it. All of these disasters His brand new never- did not really prepare used greenhouse was the Colletts for what was knocked down flat by to come next. The year a snow drift which 2008 brought a double exceeded 14 feet. With hit. The recession and help from many friends subsequent loss of and family, the snow was disposable income was shoveled away and the paired with the loss of structure was shored up thousands of jobs from enough to be used. The the air park. first crop was ready to Every year since sell in spring of 1978. A the very beginning of memorable first spring the business sales had indeed. grown over the last The business went year’s sales. The Colletts well. The damaged saw their sales that year greenhouse was replaced drop over 40 percent. and more growing space Profit went to zero and was needed. Space stayed there for over was added as time and four years. Jobs were money permitted. taken away from the In January of 1982 business as a source of Steve brought in a A bird’s eye view of the corn maze at Pot-Luck Greenhouse. Displays are designed to give local gardeners ideas for their own partner, his new wife See long | 19 backyards. Relax & Unwind Life is FUN in Clinton County! What is on your Bucket List? OH-70056923 18 June 28, 2018 2018 progress News Journal

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COLLABORATING WITH THE CITY, COUNTY AND OTHER ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATIONS LOCALLY AND REGIONALLY OH-70057985 News Journal 2018 progress June 28, 2018 19 Murphy Advertising: ‘Let’s go create it!’

Murphy Advertising on successes and and suppliers but also the same and their own Co. offers its services challenges,” says Murphy. has the case histories uniqueness is what drives nationwide from its home “So, it is a matter of and knowledge of what those successes. No base in Wilmington. diversity and taking any has worked well for any project is too large or too The company features challenge to promote or situation. small and we like to have promotional products, get the right message out “It is amazing how fun! decorated apparel and cal- to improve and grow any technology is changing “I have sold flashlights endars — “Actually, ANY- business or non-profit. the world, and that to a blind man and I THING you can think of “No doubt, the goes right along with have live shrimp living to put a name, logo or best aspect for me is the promotional world. in my office. You may message on,” says owner the learning curve of Safety and social wonder how that relates Jeff Murphy. “If it has not how to best use my compliance is built into to promotional products been created, let’s go get corporate support by each order, which some but there is real purpose a patent and create it!” HALO BRANDED companies lack and they behind each promotion. The company is also largest promotional nationwide with world- SOLUTIONS to grow take risks. “Create that supported by HALO product company in the wide resources. my business,” he says. “We don’t take that conversation and BRANDED SOLU- nation, which gives Mur- “The promotional “HALO connects me to risk. No two businesses accomplish what you are TIONS, the second- phy Advertising support industry thrives over 3,000 manufacturers or organizations are set out to do.”

Karla and bring the vital- Long ity and ideas of a new generation. From page 17 Pot-Luck Greenhouse truly remains a family income. operation that prides Over the next few itself on producing 95 years the family sought percent of the plants out new ways to pro- they sell right there in mote their business. their own greenhouses. New products were This allows the operation added. A larger mulch, to sell the best quality topsoil and stone facility available at reasonable was built. Delivery was prices. offered to increase sales. In 2017 a corn maze One of the most fun was added. In the field additions to get more beside the greenhouses customers out to shop two miles of trails were was the beginning of the cut in five acres of corn. annual spring show. A Other attractions include theme is selected such a straw maze for kids, as The Wizard of Oz and two bounce houses, pick- the story is displayed in your-own pumpkin patch, flowers. The displays are a hay ride to the pump- designed to give local kins, giant cornhole gardeners ideas for their game and the extremely own backyards. The popular corn swim. News Journal file photos shows have been a great A giant slide is being The family operation prides itself on producing 95 percent of the plants they sell right there in their own greenhouses. success. added this year as well Two of the Colletts’ as a rat race game.This scout groups and other Friday our hours are 4-10 ages to enjoy. adversity, so has Pot- sons have returned to year’s theme is Noah’s organizations during the p.m. On Saturday 10 As Wilmington has Luck Greenhouse. Stop the business. Nathan and Ark. week. The maze is open a.m.-10 p.m. and on Sun- experienced and con- by and see us. Our fam- Josiah both now work We welcome reserva- weekends from Sept. day noon-7 p.m. There tinues to experience a ily would love to meet alongside Steve and tions from school groups, 15 through Oct. 28. On is truly something for all comeback from much yours. A Heritage of Caring As a family owned and operated funeral home for more than 65 years, we understand the needs and challenges that arise when you are faced with the loss of a loved one.  at’s why we’re here to help you through every decision and detail at this di cult time, honoring the memory of your loved one with a digni ed and  tting tribute.

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OH-70056956 937-382-2323 www.smithandsonfuneralhomes.com Traditional Funerals | Non-Traditional Services | Cremation Choices Advanced Planning | Personalization Options | Green-friendly Burials | Pet Cremation 20 June 28, 2018 2018 progress News Journal CMH growing strong with community

Fellow community members: The growth CMH has experienced over the last several years is unprecedented. We continue to provide higher levels of care to Southwest Ohio – and we couldn’t do it without our incredible team of employees and providers. In 2017, CMH added more than 30 new providers to our medical staff, including a fully- staffed hospitalist team, interventional cardiologists, our third general surgeon, and new primary care providers in Wilmington and Washington Court Courtesy photos House. We touched over 33,000 lives across over always our very first 105,000 visits, and we priority, and last year saw a 7% increase in was another banner admissions over the year. Our home health last two years, as more team was ranked among patients choose CMH HomeCare Elite for the for their care. 12th year in a row. We Last summer, we were also proud to earn made a million-dollar advanced certification the regional healthcare upgrade to our linear from The Joint Com- destination this commu- accelerator to be on the mission in Total Hip nity deserves. forefront of radiation and Total Knee Replace- CMH, like Clinton therapy technology, ments. This recognition County, has faced its tri- expanding access to care highlights our commit- interventional capa- als over the last decade, and treatment to cancer ment to safe and effec- life-saving equipment, moment in time, know- bilities and facilities, but I’m proud to report patients across the tive orthopaedic care, as sponsored Little League ing the foundation built expanding low-dose CT that CMH is as strong region. And last fall, we well as our coordinated teams, collected school over the last several for lung cancer screen- as ever, and that we’re brought life-saving care and comprehensive supplies for elementary years of sustainable and ing, and hiring nursing committed to being this closer to home than ever approach to total joint students, and awarded steady growth, is an staff throughout all of region’s healthcare pro- before with the launch replacements. two college scholarships honor. I’m excited to our clinical departments vider for many years to of our interventional Second to patient to the family members serve as CMH’s CEO as as we continue to grow. come. cardiology program. care, I’m most proud of of CMH employees. Our we leverage this momen- You’ll see new provid- It’s my promise to For the first time in the ways CMH works employees coordinated tum and drive CMH into ers in critical specialties you that we’ll work hard CMH history, we’re in and for the com- free community health a new future. as we expand access every day to bring you able to care for heart munity. In 2017, we screening events, and We have a lot to look to care, and expanded greater access, more attack victims here at helped celebrate the collected critical supple- forward to this year outreach to the people specialties, and a higher CMH, bringing critical Clinton-Massie Falcons ments and medical sup- alone — we’re invest- and organizations that quality of care. interventions to the on their run to the state plies to be donated to ing in upgrades to our make this community Thank you for your 100,000+ who live in our final, launched an AED those needing care in emergency department thrive. We are setting trust, confidence, and service area. program to benefit our Haiti and Puerto Rico. to make it more geriatric our sights higher every support. High quality care is local schools in need of Joining CMH at this friendly, expanding our year, and working to be — Lance Beus, CEO Your Hometown Realtors serving Clinton County since 1974

Walter (Butch) Peelle Ken Lundy Robyn Clifton CEO President Vice President

Connie Creditt Gray Jared Holmes Jack Webster

Jonda Towner Sandy Wiget Tom Jarrell Offi ce Manager Offi ce Personnel “The Real Estate Professionals” 822 ROMBACH AVE., WILMINGTON, OH 45177 BUS: (937) 382-5538 FAX: (937) 382-7109 WEBSITE: WWW.PEELLE-LUNDY.COM OH-70057247 News Journal 2018 progress June 28, 2018 21

a new program, Web celebrate the beginning • Computer Service Forward Applications and Game of the baseball season. Technician and Development. This The truck was Networking students set From page 15 program teaches coding purchased by Great up a video display with and provides students Oaks in 2017 to provide the truck. took third place in Ohio with the Industrial Diesel • CareerX students in the Extemporaneous a framework for Mechanics students helped get the truck Writing category. In life-long learning in with a chance to learn ready for public this event, students are this demanding field. on a recent model viewing. given a topic and must Students are exposed to vehicle; Bronson quickly The students were demonstrate both their a broad range of hands- involved others as involved as part of a knowledge and their on software engineering well. As his students SkillsUSA project. writing skills in a timed opportunities leading to completed the truck’s It was a great competition. industry certifications required annual experience said one Heavy Equipment for immediate inspection, replaced of the Digital Arts Operations program The Laurel Oaks truck in the annual Findlay Market Parade in employment or college the brakes, polished the students who developed opens downtown Cincinnati. preparedness. wheels, and wired new the graphics. “It was The Heavy Equipment Diesel truck lighting, other Laurel a chance to do a real- Operations and surveys and read program; and provides customized by students Oaks students got busy: world project, and I feel Engineering program blueprints. employment options makes its debut • Welding students like we’re leaving our completed its first • Identify and for top students. When Laurel Oaks built a mounting system mark on the school.” year in June. Students measure the qualities of Students study instructor Gary Bronson for the rear fenders, With Bronson’s learned to: soils. Aircraft Maintenance got a 2013 International built a headache rack vision, and the • Operate earth- Aviation Maintenance at Laurel Oaks are Pro Star for his high for the back of the cab, students’ work, Great moving equipment program partners with working toward a school program, he and used a CNC plasma Oaks now has a truck under actual working Delta Air Lines Federal Aviation knew that the truck cutter to cut designs for Industrial Diesel conditions. The Aviation Administration (FAA) would become a project into the rack. students to sharpen • Assemble, adjust, Maintenance Aviation Maintenance for more than just • Auto Collision their skills on as well repair and maintain Technician program Technician certificate as his Industrial Diesel Technology students as a rolling reminder electrical, ignition, became one of just they graduate from high Mechanics students. prepped and painted the to the community of hydraulic, and cooling 38 training programs school. And after months of rear fenders. the professional skills systems. in the U.S. chosen to Web Applications and work, the truck made • Digital Arts and and talents these high • Engage in partner with Delta Game Development its debut at the recent Design students school students have. minor engine repair, Air Lines. Through program set to begin Cavalcade of Customs designed and created “And it only took general maintenance, this partnership Delta More than 20 auto show in Cincinnati graphics for the truck’s me seven years (of lubrication, and donates materials, parts students prepared and participated in sides and a “Career proposing the project) equipment safety. and manuals; serves to start the 2018- April’s annual Findlay Ready” banner for the to make it a reality,” • Conduct land as an advisor to the 2019 school year in Market Parade to front. Bronson laughed.

Wilmington now has be a driving force. So We won that battle, the Crisis “But I just hate to see all those lost years. We workforce issues of a dif- now we have jobs but community won that got to make the town look sharp because you ferent sort than it did 10 not as many qualified battle; but they don’t From page 9 can’t develop when you look like you’re ready years ago. candidates to fill the know that they won that to throw in the towel” Job creation is some- jobs,” he said. battle.” the city coffers that would — David Raizk, thing that people always serve as a cushion for city Mayor of Wilmington when DHL withdrew from the talk about, he said, but David and Goliath? Small A town with grit hall and municipal servic- domestic U.S. parcel shipping market he thinks workforce town defeats UPS, Raizk DHL of course did es, at least for a while. development is probably says leave Wilmington. But “Unfortunately, there more key right now — Raizk feels that this many, many people wasn’t enough political thing out of the box.” to 1.5 percent, something to pursue having quali- community did win a stayed around — and will to raise the earnings He noted that the new he applauds. fied people for jobs. battle in 2008. many who left for an tax when it should have mayor, Randy Riley, “But I just hate to see “If you have the quali- “I want people income preferred to stay. been raised,” remarked formed a blue-ribbon all those lost years. We fied people, the jobs will to know that this “Hey, it’s home. It’s Raizk who was defeated commission which recom- got to make the town come I think. We got community was able to home for you and me,” in a close election in fall mended an increase in look sharp because you to focus on workforce defeat the UPS deal. All Raizk said during the 2011. Raizk said in his the earnings tax. can’t develop when you development, training the efforts, whether by interview. “We’re not interview that if he had A municipality has to look like you’re ready to and education, to have the workers, the unions, leaving and I think a lot been re-elected, he was have revenue, said Raizk. throw in the towel,” he the kind of workers that the media attention — of people feel that way.” going to seek a raise in After several years, the said. people need. And that’s all of that stuff beat that - . .... � the earnings tax “first earnings tax was raised The former mayor said tough, but that’s got to deal. They backed away. Reach Gary Huffenberger at 937- 556-5768.

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Clinton County Succeeds program offers local students affordability through graduation at WC

Wilmington College is offering graduates from Clinton County high schools a loan-to-grant award of up to $10,000. Effective for fall 2018, this community partnership program, known as Clinton County Succeeds, is designed to enroll local residents by giving these high school graduates or Southern State Community College transfer students, who have obtained an associate’s degree, an opportunity to afford a local college education.

Those eligible to participate in Clinton County Succeeds are 2018 graduates (and beyond) of Blanchester, Clinton-Massie, East Clinton and Wilmington high schools, and Wilmington Christian Academy. It’s also open to Clinton County residents — May 2018 graduates (and beyond) — that are home-schooled or attend schools outside the county, and non-residents that attend Clinton County schools.

This windfall includes $2,000 in annual loans for students’ first and second years, and $3,000 in annual loans for their third and fourth years. Upon their graduation from WC, the loan amount will be reduced by 75 percent and, if the graduates fulfill their commitment by living or working in Clinton County for at least the following two years, the remaining 25 percent will be forgiven. All loan-to-grant funds are based on need. The full amount of the award will be determined based on financial need as demonstrated by the FAFSA.

Any questions about Clinton County Succeeds can be directed to WC’s Sonia Thompson, assistant director of Student One Stop, at [email protected].

Additional information is available online

The Office of Admission can be reached at: [email protected] OH-70056927 News Journal 2018 progress June 28, 2018 23

A Tradition of Quality Care Ohio Living Cape May is proud to have served Clinton County for 20 years. We are a life plan community offering villa homes, spacious apartments, assisted living, short-term rehabilitation, long-term nursing care and more on a 27-acre campus in Wilmington. Our residents also enjoy the peace of mind provided by our Life Care Commitment, which ensures that they will always have a home here, even if, in good faith, they run out of the funds meant to see them through. Call 937.382.2995 to schedule your visit today, or visit ohioliving.org to learn more.

175 Cape May Drive | Wilmington, Ohio 45177 937.382. 2995 | ohioliving.org OH-70056941 24 June 28, 2018 2018 progress News Journal

CMH Regional Health System 2017: A Community Benefit report LOOKING BACK ON OUR COMMUNITY IMPACT IN 2017

In 2017, we touched over 33,000 lives, serving We delivered over patients across 105,000 visits. 500 babies.

Marci and Justin welcome their third baby, Zachary, to the world! In September, we launched interventional cardiology—a first for CMH and the region—and in the final three months of the year, we performed 25 percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) for emergent patients and more than 95 other diagnostic and interventional procedures for cardiac patients. Our personnel impact topped $37,000,000.

Our local tax impact was over $1,000,000.

We buy local—last year alone we paid over Teresa with neurologist Dr. Andrea Manhart after recovering from pain and dizzy spells she’d suffered $2,600,000 to local vendors. from for over a year - “You’re not a number to Dr. Manhart. I can’t thank her enough.”

Dr. Patrick Havey, Radiology, We treated over 31,000 patients in our and Dr. Dawn Staehling, Emergency Medicine. We provided over $9,200,000 Emergency Room, and the average wait-time was in uncompensated care. 26.5 minutes.

Our home health agency was named among We added more than thirty Home Care Elite for the new providers to our medical staff, 12th consecutive year. including full-time providers in general surgery, hospitalist medicine, interventional cardiology, and primary care.

Welcoming CMH’s third general surgeon, Dr. Nathan Roberts, to the team. Student volunteers at our 10th annual Brake for Breakfast.

We served up

Our home health team at CMH! breakfast and information about mammogram screenings to over 1200 Our CMH provider network saw patients across women at this year’s more than 59,000 office visits. Brake for Breakfast.

We performed over We had over 72,000 outpatient registrations— 3400 surgeries. for imaging, lab work, surgery, and more.

We awarded two college scholarships to family members of CMH employees pursuing post-secondary education.

Dr. Phil Aschi, Urology.

Our own Kelsey Swindler raised over $11,000 for The Hope Tira and Ted Weber receiving CMH Murphy Theatre and became Clinton County’s “star.” scholarships to put toward college.

Kelsey Swindler and professional dancer partner, Cole Haugh, proved CMH had disco fever!

We served dinners at Your Father’s Kitchen, donated medical supplies to Puerto Rico, set up shop at the Farmer’s Market, launched an AED program to benefit our local schools, celebrated our EMS heroes, and so much more. We cheered on our Clinton Massie boys at the state football final and made sure more than 2500 fans had rally towels.

Clinton Massie fans sporting rally towels. Photo by Tina Brown from Clinton Massie Friday Night Lights. OH-70056947

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