🐕 Paws on patrol

Good morning, Clermont County. Did you know that a four-legged officer named Deborah is helping keep the county jail drug-free? Sheriff Chris Stratton's passion for K-9 units has brought this proactive security measure to life, drawing from his own decade of experience working with a bloodhound. Far from a reactive solution, this carefully planned program represents a commitment to both inmate and staff safety that was in motion even before Stratton took office.

Meanwhile, two very different community conversations are unfolding around us. Women looking for purpose and connection can mark their calendars for the return of the Ignite Conference in June 2025, featuring speakers like Alli Patterson and Jo Saxton. At the same time, local real estate interests and West Chester officials are navigating the delicate balance between property rights and neighborhood character as they debate the future of short-term rentals in residential areas.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Loveland

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Milford

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Batavia

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New Richmond

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Bethel

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Williamsburg

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Owensville

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Felicity

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Moscow

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Neville

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🔥 Ignite Conference returns to spark purpose in women's lives. Hosted by Crossroads Women, the 2025 event promises fresh content, powerful speakers, and streamlined breakouts after high demand in 2024. The two-day conference (June 27-28, 2025) at Crossroads East Side in Cincinnati will feature three main sessions, two breakouts, and live worship. Speakers include Alli Patterson, Jenni Wong Clayville, and Jo Saxton, with tickets priced at $90 for the weekend designed to equip women to "change the world."

🐕 K-9 Deborah keeps Clermont County Jail safe from drugs. Sheriff Chris Stratton's long-planned K-9 program brings an additional layer of security to the facility, preventing contraband from entering. The initiative wasn't a reaction to a recent isolated smuggling incident but rather a proactive measure implemented before Stratton took office. Having worked with a bloodhound for nearly a decade, Stratton personally understands the valuable services well-trained K-9s and handlers provide to communities. The program represents his passion for K-9 units and his commitment to inmate and staff safety.

🏠 Realtors clash with West Chester over short-term rental restrictions. The Realtor Alliance of Greater Cincinnati is pushing back against proposed zoning changes that would ban short-term rentals in single-family residential zones. In a four-page letter, the 1,400-member alliance argues the restrictions would infringe on property rights and hurt local tourism. Township officials maintain they're balancing homeowners' quality of life with business interests, noting they won't actively police violations unless complaints arise. The final zoning resolution is expected for adoption by the end of April, with public review available online.

Resort living countryside convenience: This ranch end unit condo lists at $215,000, offering 2-3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, an open layout with fresh paint and new carpet, plus resort amenities including a lake, pool, and tennis courts.

Country oasis awaits dream home: For $80,000, this 6.6-acre parcel offers a peaceful setting for your custom dream home, with space for gardens and outdoor living, while remaining conveniently close to schools, shopping, and parks.

Land auction near golf club: This 49-acre vacant land in Stonelick Township, listed at $1, is being auctioned in three tracts ranging from 5 to 28 acres, offering tillable land, woods, and Stonelick Creek frontage near the Golf Club at Stonelick Hills.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎵 Mar. 7 - Anita & Daves Trail Gig: Groove to live tunes with Anita and the Daves at The Miamiville Trailyard on March 7! Enjoy delicious food and craft beer at this charming open-air spot right on the Little Miami Scenic Bike Trail.

🎲 Mar. 8 - Saturday Board Game Meetup: Roll the dice at Time Warp's Saturday Board Game Meet-up! Bring your own games or try something from their library while making new friends. Every Saturday at 4601 Eastgate Blvd, Cincinnati.

🥞 Mar. 8 - Pancakes in the Park: Flip for free flapjacks at Pancakes in the Park! Join the Clermont County Park District and Kiwanis at Pattison Park Lodgeside on March 8 for a delicious breakfast with no registration required.

🥾 Mar. 8 - Happy Hour Hiking Trail: Lace up your boots for "Happy Hour on the Trail" at Cincinnati Nature Center on March 8! Enjoy a relaxed 2-mile hike with good company, fresh air, and your favorite snacks to share.

🦅 Mar. 8 - Winter Bird Walk: Spot winter's feathered friends at Cincinnati Nature Center's Bird Walk on March 8! Join fellow bird enthusiasts at 4949 Tealtown Rd in Milford for a refreshing nature experience as winter transitions to spring.

🎨 Mar. 9 - Walk-In Ceramic Painting: Get creative at Walk-In Ceramic Painting this Saturday! Drop by 600 Kilgore Ave between noon and 4pm with just $10, which goes toward your chosen ceramic piece. No reservation needed!

🎨 Mar. 9 - Cincy Spring Art Show: Discover one-of-a-kind treasures at the 2025 Cincinnati Spring Avant-Garde Art & Craft Show! Browse unique handmade creations on March 9 at RSVP Event Center in Loveland.

💰 Financial Friday

Consider setting up an automatic savings plan that transfers a small percentage of your income into a dedicated savings account each month; this "pay yourself first" strategy can help you build a financial cushion without feeling the pinch.

🙏 In Remembrance

James "Jim" Linn

James R. Linn, affectionately known as Jim, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2025, at age 90, following a life dedicated to family, work, and community service. A successful engineer in the machinist industry, he was also deeply committed to the Milford Lodge, Amelia Chapter, and served as a Deacon at Parkside Christian Church where he helped with outreach programs including the food pantry. Jim was active in the Milford Amateur Radio Club and Frontier Days, while enjoying tennis, racquetball, baseball, and go-kart racing in his leisure time. He is survived by his three children, seven grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of love and service.

Mike Antonio Carter

Mike Antonio Carter, age 43, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025. Born on March 23, 1981, in Cincinnati, Mike's family has not yet scheduled a funeral or memorial service but will notify loved ones when arrangements are made. Well-wishers can share memories or messages on the "Tribute Wall" on the funeral home's website. Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the Carter family during this difficult time.

Doris T Heckler

Doris Theresa Heckler, age 97, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2025, after being born in Dayton, OH in 1928. She was married to Paul Francis Heckler for 68 years until his death and was an active member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Aurora, Indiana, where she volunteered at the St. Vincent de Paul Pantry. Doris enjoyed gardening, sewing, travel, and cherished time with her family, which includes seven children, ten grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Services will be held on March 10, 2025, at St. Mary's Catholic Church with internment at River View Cemetery in Aurora.

Miles Adeyemi Rucker

Miles Adeyemi Rucker, 22, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on February 28, 2025. Born on December 1, 2002, in Fairfield, Ohio, Miles will be honored with a visitation and memorial service on March 15, 2025, at the Allen Temple AME Church in Cincinnati. Friends and family are invited to gather to share memories and honor his legacy. Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is handling arrangements, and tributes can be shared on their website.

Evelyn C. Saffin

Evelyn Clare Saffin passed away on March 3, 2025, at the age of 94, leaving behind a legacy as a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was married to the late Charles W. Saffin for 69 years and is survived by her son Richard, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Known for her sharp wit, intelligence, and caring spirit, Evelyn cherished family gatherings, particularly golfing outings, boating trips, and winter adventures in Florida. A devoted Catholic and long-time member of St. Andrew Catholic Church, Evelyn will be honored with a Mass of Christian Burial on March 10, 2025.

Barbara Jean Hickson

Barbara Jean Hickson, 66, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2025, leaving behind her husband of 46 years, Earl Joseph Hickson Jr. She is survived by her mother, Sandra Schafer, three children, two grandchildren, and three siblings, though she was preceded in death by her father, Leslie Codling. A visitation will be held on March 12 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, followed by a Mass at St. Lawrence Catholic Church on March 13. Barbara was born on February 7, 1959, in Cincinnati, and will be remembered fondly by her many family members and friends.

Peter L. Sabino

Peter L. Sabino, a Captain for the City of Cincinnati Fire Department who passed away at age 90, was honored with the Ben Franklin Award for his exceptional service during the Beverly Hills Supper Club fire. Beyond his firefighting career, he was an avid boater and football fan who especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren's events. Known for his kindness and willingness to help others, Peter is survived by his daughter-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and sister. He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Dolores, his parents, and his son Peter Louis Sabino.

Carol Jean Dreyer

Carol Jean Dreyer (née Creek), aged 79, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2025, surrounded by her family after 56 years of marriage to Lawrence D. Dreyer. A graduate of Seton High School and Mount St. Joseph University, Carol worked as a dedicated social worker for various counties and St. George Hospital. She volunteered for many years in Southwest Indiana providing medical assistance to underprivileged children and is survived by her husband, son Dan, sister Joy, and numerous in-laws, nieces, and nephews. Her funeral service will be held at St. Joseph Church on March 11, with the family suggesting memorial donations to Seton High School or Mt. St. Joseph University in lieu of flowers.

Marcia Scheetz

Marcia Scheetz (née Sprengelmeyer), aged 84, passed away on March 4th. She was preceded in death by her husband Stewart F. Scheetz and her brother Joseph Sprengelmeyer. Marcia is survived by her two sons Mark and Mike Olthaus, four grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and her siblings Melissa Bulkley and David Sprengelmeyer, along with many nieces and nephews. Services will be held at the family's convenience, and memorial donations may be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Nancy A. Bowman

Nancy Ann Bowman, 76, passed away on March 3, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of boundless love and nurturing care that began with her ten younger siblings and extended to anyone who entered her home. Known for her stylish presence, wonderful sense of humor, and love for hosting family gatherings, Nancy cherished memorable vacations and enjoyed casino games, bingo, and cards with loved ones. She was preceded in death by her husband Cecil, sons Timmy and Michael, parents John and Margaret Hobbs, and siblings Clint Hobbs and Wilma Jean, while surviving family includes her daughter Donna, seven grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and eight siblings. Services will be held at Evans Funeral Home on March 7, followed by a graveside service at Deerfield Cemetery.

Mrs. Terrie L. Streaker

Terrie L. Streaker, 66, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025, in Amelia, Ohio. Born on August 11, 1958, she will be remembered during a visitation on Thursday, March 6, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Walker Funeral Home in Mt. Healthy. A graveside service will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025, at 11:00 am at Reading Cemetery. Walker Funeral Home is handling arrangements for the Streaker family.

Barbara Lucille Brisbin

Barbara Lucille Brisbin passed away on March 5, 2025, at the age of 85. She was the beloved wife of the late Robert C. Brisbin and a loving mother to Beth, Chuck, and Jamie. Barbara was a devoted grandmother to Kassandra, B.J., and Bobby, and a great-grandmother to six great-grandchildren. Her funeral services will be held on March 22, 2025, at the Neidhard-Minges Funeral Home in Cincinnati, with visitation beginning at 10 AM.

John Leppert

John Thomas Leppert, 59, passed away unexpectedly on March 3, 2025, at Mercy West Hospital with his family present. He is survived by his wife Robin, four children, ten grandchildren (with one deceased), and four siblings, along with numerous extended family members. John was preceded in death by his parents, John T. and Cathy Leppert. A visitation will be held on March 7th followed by a funeral service at Neidhard-Minges Funeral Home in Harrison, Ohio.

Daniel R. Philhower Sr.

Daniel Ray Philhower, Sr., a veteran who served in the Army during Vietnam, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2025, at age 80. After his military service, he worked as a machinist and later retired as a quality controller with Southern Ohio Manufacturing. Family was the cornerstone of his life, and he is survived by his daughter, son, three sisters, eight grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. Daniel enjoyed outdoor activities like fishing and camping, and was known for his generosity and willingness to help others in need. A funeral service will be held on March 10, 2025, at Evans Funeral Home, followed by burial with military honors at Goshen Cemetery.

Margaret D True

Margaret "Peggie" D. True, 85, passed away on March 3, 2025, after dedicating over 30 years to teaching music at Seipelt Elementary School where she created the After-School Orff Program. A passionate educator with degrees from Muskingum University and Wright State University, she also taught at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, UC Clermont, and served as local chair for the American Orff-Schulwerk Association National Conference. Peggie is survived by her husband of 62 years, Bob True, her daughters Wendy and Holly, four grandchildren, three brothers, and extended family. Beyond education, she served on the Clermont County Library Board and was known for her high standards and quick wit.

Cory Octomedious Walton

Corey Walton, 51, of Cincinnati, died unexpectedly on Thursday, February 27, 2025. He was originally from Martinsville, Virginia. Funeral services will take place in Virginia, with details to be announced at a later date. The family welcomes floral tributes, which can be arranged through their designated floral store.

Cory Octomedious Walton

Cory Octomedious Walton, 51, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on February 27, 2025. Born in Martinsville, Virginia in 1973, he was a man of faith and the owner of Cory's Flooring. Known for his kindness, positivity, and sense of humor, Cory was beloved by everyone who knew him and was particularly devoted to his mother. An avid traveler with a zest for life, he is survived by his mother Carla Williams Walton, his son Atrayal, his grandson, siblings, and extended family. A memorial service will be held on March 8, 2025, at First Baptist Church East Martinsville.

Gene Wellendorf

Gene Wellendorf passed away on March 5, 2025, at the age of 94. He was preceded in death by his wife V. Diane Wellendorf (née Dee) and is survived by his children Dave Wellendorf and Lori Guban, along with six grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Visitation will be held at Hodapp Funeral Home in College Hill on Sunday, March 9, from 3-5 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Monday, March 10, at 10 AM at St. Dominic Church in Cincinnati.

Sharon Lee Rose

Sharon Lee Rose passed away peacefully on February 28, 2025, at age 59, leaving behind her daughter Trish, son Randy, brothers Scott and Steve, sister Teri, and grandson Blake. A resident of Loveland, Ohio, Sharon treasured family above all and found joy in simple pleasures like shopping, collecting dolphin figurines, and gathering seashells. Though she had only a high school education, she possessed wisdom from a life rich with experiences and was known for her warm spirit that welcomed everyone she met. A celebration of her life will be held on March 22nd at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church, with donations to local animal shelters requested in lieu of flowers.

Richard Salmen

Richard Samuel Salmen passed away on March 3, 2025, at the age of 86, having been born in New Castle, PA in 1938. He is survived by his three children—David, Matthew, and Karen—along with six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, three step-daughters, and two sisters. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Sandra, and his two brothers. No formal services will be held, but memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association Greater Cincinnati Chapter or Hospice of Cincinnati.

Shane Ross

Shane Ross, 56, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2025, in Milford, Ohio, where he was a beloved community member known for his contagious laugh and witty humor. A devoted Kentucky Wildcats fan and 1985 Goshen High School graduate, Shane was married to Aimee Ross for 25 wonderful years. He is survived by his wife, parents, step-children, grandchildren (including Bayleigh Rogers whom he helped raise), siblings, and niece Kelsy. Shane's memorial service will be held at Evans Funeral Home in Goshen, where friends and family can gather to celebrate his legacy of kindness and friendship.

Izreal Bishop

Izreal Bishop, the 13-year-old loving son of Rachel Tobin and Isaac Bishop, passed away on Thursday, February 20, 2025, in Cincinnati. A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at House of Hope, located at 930 Finlay Ave, Cincinnati, Ohio 45214. Following the visitation, a traditional service will take place at the same location beginning at 4:00 PM. Funeral arrangements are being handled by J.C. Battle & Sons Funeral Home, and special online condolences for family and friends may be expressed at their website.

Lisa Marie Miller

Lisa Marie (Lyons) Miller passed away on February 18, 2025, after fighting multiple sclerosis for 30 years, maintaining her joy and love for life throughout her illness. Born in Finneytown, Ohio in 1965, she spent her entire life in the Cincinnati area, where she enjoyed board games, rock music, and activities with her family who were the center of her world. She is survived by her husband Jens, whom she married in 1989, her son Kyle, and her daughter Brandi, who is expecting Lisa's first grandchild. Lisa's grace, positivity, and unwavering spirit in the face of her illness inspired everyone around her, leaving a lasting legacy of warmth, humor, and limitless love.

Andrew Smith

Andrew Smith, 72, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on March 4, 2025. Born on May 28, 1952, in Utica, New York, he will be remembered during visitation and funeral services on March 20, 2025, at the Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel. Friends and family will gather to share memories and honor his legacy. The Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is handling arrangements during this difficult time.

Kim Thomas

Kim Thomas, 62, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on March 3, 2025, after being born in San Francisco, California on January 7, 1963. A visitation will be held on March 15, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel, followed immediately by a funeral service. She will be interred at Walnut Hills Cemetery, with Walker Funeral Home and Crematory assisting the Thomas family during this difficult time.

Lan T Vu

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Gregory Creech

Gregory Creech, 73, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away on March 4, 2025, leaving behind his wife Barbara of 30 years, five children, and numerous grandchildren and extended family. Born in 1951, Gregory was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings, with two siblings still surviving. He was passionate about music, particularly playing keyboards and guitars, and was known for his vibrant storytelling, kindness, and generosity. A funeral ceremony will be held on March 9, 2025, at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions in Cincinnati.