Hospice Heartfelt
Running for remembrance: Celebrating life and love at the annual hospice fundraiser
BY KATIE SIMPSON
The Middletonian
Spring 2025 • Vol. 7, No. 2
INSIDE
Healthy Middletown
National Public Health Week
Hospice Heartfelt
Running for remembrance
Middletown Events
Spring events around town
Inaugural Honor
Middletown band shines at inauguration 6 8 12 14
OUR TEAM
Mention us & a portion of the proceeds benefit The Middletonian. Interested in Advertising? Call (513) 816-1450 or Email themiddletonian@gmail.com
FOOD & BEVERAGE
RICHARD’S PIZZA 513-988-2326
RICHARDSPIZZA.COM
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
BUTLER BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES 513-896-7887
BBHS.ORG
HOSPICE CARE OF MIDDLETOWN 513-424-2273
HOSPICECAREOFMIDDLETOWN.ORG
MIDDLETOWN EYE CARE 513-424-0339
MIDDLETOWNEYECARE.COM
INSURANCE
INSURANCE ASSOCIATES 888-423-2488
INSURANCEASSOCIATES.NET
REAL ESTATE HOWARD HANNA 513-616-3835
BILLGABBARD.HOWARDHANNA.COM
SCHOOLS, COLLEGES, AND EDUCATION
BUTLER TECH 513-868-6300
BUTLERTECH.ORG
MIDDLETOWN CITY SCHOOLS 513-423-0781
MIDDLETOWNCITYSCHOOLS.COM
JOHN XXIII CATHOLIC SCHOOL 513-424-1196
STJOHN23SCHOOL.ORG
PUBLISHER: One Pride Publishing, LLP
WRITERS: Shari Botts, Richard O Jones, Katie Simpson
PHOTOGRAPHER: Bailey Osborne
GRAPHIC DESIGN: Eric Marquard PRINTER: Hamilton Graphics
CONTACT: The Middletonian, 224 High Street, Hamilton, Ohio 45011 • (513) 816-1450
LOCAL HEALTH, GLOBAL IMPORTANCE
April 7–13 is National Public Health Week
BY SHARI BOTTS, BSN, RN, CPHQ, C-ONQS, CIC
■ FOR MANY OF US, the importance of public health became strikingly clear during the 2020 pandemic— perhaps more than at any other time in our lives. Public health services are essential, and each April, we celebrate the contributions of these unsung heroes who work tirelessly to support and promote the health of communities across the nation and around the world. Our public health workforce serves as the first line of defense in responding to disease outbreaks and preparing for disasters. They ensure the air we breathe and the water we drink are clean, and that the food we eat is safe.
Additional critical services provided by our public health departments include:
• Improving population health outcomes through health promotion, disease prevention, and community engagement
• Providing direct care for vulnerable and underserved populations
• Responding to emerging public health priorities
HISTORY AND EVOLUTION OF PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES
Public health has played a pivotal role in significantly increasing life expectancy over time. Before the 18th century, epidemics were dominated by diseases like plague, cholera, and smallpox. European cities began forming developed public authorities in the late 1600s, primarily to enforce
isolation and quarantine measures for infectious diseases and to start recording and reporting deaths. In the 18th century, several U.S. port cities established rules for trade quarantine and the isolation of smallpox patients. The 19th century brought improved sanitation and environmental conditions, and protecting citizens’ health became a social responsibility. Disease control shifted from reacting to outbreaks to focusing on prevention. In 1850, Lemuel Shattuck, a Massachusetts statistician, published the Report of the Massachusetts Sanitary Commission, advocating for a comprehensive public health system and the creation of state and local boards of health. Shattuck highlighted
the importance of recordkeeping and vital statistics. The first public health agency, the New York City Health Department, was established in 1866. Sanitary efforts in New York minimized an 1866 cholera outbreak to a small number of cases, while other cities without such systems suffered far worse. By the end of the 19th century, advances in knowledge and the germ theory of disease provided a scientific foundation for public health. State and local health departments established laboratories and improved water systems. Milk pasteurization began, and vaccines were developed for smallpox and typhoid.
In the early 20th century, the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health was founded, introducing formal education to the emerging field of public health. Physicians and scientists guided public reforms. Public health nurses started home visits, and school health clinics were established. Tuberculosis and baby clinics emerged, and public health was officially tasked with promoting a healthy society. Federal activities expanded, with programs established for maternal and child health. Roosevelt’s New Deal in the 1930s solidified the federal role in health services. The National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Cancer Institute, and Institute for Mental Health, among others, were formed. During World War II, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) was established. Vaccine development advanced, and workplace safety improved significantly. In 1880, life expectancy in New York City and Brooklyn was 36 years; by 1920, it had risen to 53 years. Toward the end of the 20th century, HIV/AIDS (first reported in the U.S. in 1981) emerged as a major challenge.
In the 21st century, many public health departments nationwide are understaffed and are exploring partnerships with universities and businesses. Alongside new challenges, there is positive progress, including ongoing advancements in technology that enhance our ability to track data and improved access to mental health services.
OHIO DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH (ODH)
odh.ohio.gov
The Ohio Department of Health’s mission is to advance the health and well-being of all Ohioans. Its core
inspections and licensure, maintains vital statistics (e.g., births and deaths), and administers the Complex Medical Help Program (CMH) to ensure comprehensive care for those with special health care needs.
Local Public Health Departments
CITY OF MIDDLETOWN HEALTH DEPARTMENT
cityofmiddletown.org/271/Health, 513-425-1818
The mission of the City of Middletown Health Department is to prevent disease and injury, promote health and wellness, protect the environment, and achieve health equity. Beyond implementing the CMH program for Middletown families, their wide-ranging services include food inspections, recalls, health education, and emergency preparedness. Required reporting of infectious diseases to ODH, maintaining vital statistics, and monitoring environmental health all begin at the local level.
responsibilities include preventing and controlling infectious diseases and building strong communities to help Ohioans live free of disease and injury. In Ohio, the Administrative Code (Chapter 3701-3) mandates the reporting of certain diseases. Reportable infectious diseases— such as measles, meningitis, STDs (e.g., chlamydia and gonorrhea), hepatitis A, Legionnaires’ disease, and pertussis—may lead to epidemic spread. Laboratories, hospitals, and other entities report these to local health departments. ODH also assesses and monitors environmental health factors like air, food, and water, ensures quality of care in hospitals and extended care facilities through
BUTLER COUNTY GENERAL HEALTH DISTRICT
health.bcohio.gov, 513-863-1770
The Butler County General Health District shares a mission to prevent disease and injury, promote health and wellness, protect the environment, and achieve health equity. They provide environmental health services for Butler County (outside the cities of Hamilton and Middletown) and offer clinics for all county residents, including vaccinations (for children and adults), a TB program, and a travel clinic.
Both of our local health departments work diligently to promote and support the health of our community while keeping us informed about various health initiatives. Please join me in thanking them for their incredible efforts!
Hospice Heartfelt
Running for remembrance: Celebrating life and love at the annual hospice fundraiser
BY KATIE SIMPSON
■ IF SOMEONE were to ask what comes to mind when you hear the word “hospice,” what would you say? Or if they asked what the word “hospice” makes you feel, what emotions would it evoke?
For many, “hospice” conjures thoughts of finality—the end, heartbreak, and loss. And yes, those things can be part of it. But what’s often unknown or
overlooked is the deeply personal care hospice offers, the tender compassion extended to patients and their families, and the thoughtful effort put into every step of a patient’s journey. Yes, hospice is typically associated with end-of-life care, but Hospice Care of Middletown (HCM) is so much more than that. They’re also about living life—living it as fully and comfortably as possible, for as long as possible.
Since the 1980s, Hospice Care of Middletown has made it their mission to care for patients in a “whole-listic” way. They see the whole person and honor who they are and the life they’re still living. They provide physical, emotional, and spiritual support, looking beyond mere medical needs. They see their patients in their full context—not just as individuals nearing the end of life, but as people with rich
histories, touched lives, and shared love. They see a patient who misses her flower garden, so volunteers tend to her flower beds, allowing her to enjoy her blooms a little longer. They see a patient with limited time, so they arrange a final symphony date night at home for him and his wife, recreating a cherished tradition. Or they recognize a patient’s wish to see their family cared for, so HCM staff and volunteers cater a special dinner. Through their Wish For a Day program, they uncover what patients love, value, and find joy in—and bring those things to life for them and their loved ones. These heartwarming efforts (and many more) have earned HCM an impressive 99
percent approval rating and the highest customer satisfaction rate in Ohio.
As a not-for-profit organization, Hospice Care of Middletown makes these dreams come true despite not being covered by insurance, Medicaid, or Medicare. It takes the generosity of a community and dedicated fundraising to turn these wishes into reality.
One beloved fundraising event is the Mother’s Day 5K, now celebrating its 15th year. This walk/run is as fun as it is heartwarming, welcoming everyone— from kids in strollers to adults in their 90s with walkers. It’s truly a family affair, with options for every age and
fitness level. The race grows each year; last year’s event boasted 37 sponsorships and a record number of race-day registrations. Between preregistration, race-day sign-ups, volunteers, and staff, over 550 participants joined the Mother’s Day 5K.
The race takes place at the pristine Woodside Cemetery and Arboretum. Set on 135 acres, Woodside provides a serene, historic backdrop for HCM’s Mother’s Day 5K while offering participants a peaceful space to remember loved ones who have passed.
Not every participant has been directly touched by hospice, but many have.
Upon registering, participants can share the name of the loved one they’re running or walking for, and that name appears on a sign along the path. Some leave the signs for others to see; others take them to “finish the race together.” Either way, these signs serve as a touching memorial, reminding everyone of hospice’s enduring mission.
Though the mood can be somber at times, there’s no shortage of fun. Prizes, awards, medals, and post-race refreshments give participants plenty to look forward to.
The most special moment of the day comes when a family touched by hospice reconnects with staff who supported them through their loss. We
often hear “trauma bond” in a negative light, but there’s beauty in the bonds formed during hardship. These are the people who cared for a loved one with dignity and grace, held hands during goodbyes, and reminded families that tears are okay—that they reflect the love still held for someone, a gift in itself. When these families and staff reunite, gratitude overflows, often with a few tender tears, along that race path.
As I spoke with Ruth Lolli (Community Liaison) and Jenny Fink (Volunteer Coordinator) about all that Hospice Care of Middletown does for patients and their families, I kept recalling a concept I’d heard years ago: “intimacy.” Typically seen as romantic, the word breaks down to “in-to-me-see.” That’s what HCM
does—they see people. They strive to understand who their patients are on a genuine, deep level, recognizing what and who matters to them and caring for those things too. Whether a patient has five days or five months left, Hospice Care of Middletown works to make that time as full of life and love as possible. That is intimacy—caring for people with kindness and compassion, helping them find peace. And that is what makes Hospice Care of Middletown so special.
If hospice has ever touched your life, or if you’d simply love to support an amazing organization, sign up for the Mother’s Day 5K, become a sponsor, or make a donation. Whatever you choose, it will surely make a difference in someone’s life.
MIDDLETOWN
First Friday: Easter Egg Sales Hunt
Friday, April 4
• 5 – 8 p.m.
• Governors Square
Spring into the PAC
Saturday, April 5
• 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Pendleton Art Studios
Crash the Stash — Art Journal Page
Tuesday, April 8
• 6 – 8:30 p.m.
• Artfully Yours 95 Studio LL11
Moss Wall Art Workshop
Wednesday, April 9
• 6 – 8 p.m.
• Middletown Art Center
Rhonda Vincent
Friday, April 25
• 8 – 10 p.m.
• Sorg Opera House
• Tickets | $40 advance
• Rhonda Vincent is a firecracker of talent that powers one of the hottest bands in any genre of music today!
Spring Fest Art & Craft Show
Saturday, April 26
• 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Pendleton Art Center
Mutt Strutt K9-5K
Saturday, April 26
• 10 – 11:00 a.m.
• Windamere
NEW Ales Speed Puzzle Competition
Sunday, April 27
• 1 – 5 p.m.
• NEW Ales Brewing
First Friday — Cinco De Derby
Friday, May 2
• 5 – 8 p.m.
• Governors Square
Hispanic Heritage Festival
Saturday, May 3
• 2 – 7 p.m.
• Governors Square
Free Comic Book Day
Saturday, May 3
• 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Crooked Dog Comics
15th Annual Mother’s Day 5K Run/Walk
SPRING EVENTS
Saturday, May 11
• 8:30 a.m.
• Woodside Cemetery and Arboretum
• Please join us for this family event supporting the valuable services and programs Hospice Care of Middletown.
• Please register at hospicecareofmiddletown.org
Tyler Christopher & The Roustabout Show Band
Friday, May 16
• 8 – 11 p.m.
• Sorg Opera House
• Tickets | $25 advance
• Get ready to shake, rattle and roll with the king for one night and one night only. This Roust about show will have you dancing in your blue suede shoes.
Women’s Wine & Chocolate Walk Saturday, May 17
• 12 – 6 p.m.
• Downtown Middletown
Community Blood Drive
Monday, May 19
• 3 – 6 p.m.
• MidPointe Library Middletown
• Save a life, give blood on the Versiti Blood Center of Ohio mobile coach. Please visit donortime.com
Memorial Day Parade
Monday, May 26
• 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
• Woodside Cemetery
First Friday Friday, June 6
• 5 – 8 p.m.
• Governors Square Farmers Market
Friday, June 6
• 5 – 8 p.m.
• Governors Square
Scotty Bratcher Saturday, June 7
• 8 – 10 p.m.
• Sorg Opera House
• Tickets | $20 advance | $30 day of
Farmers Market Sunday, June 15
• 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Governors Square
St. John XXIII - The Festival Friday, June 20 | 6 p.m. – Midnight Saturday, June 21 | 4 p.m. – Midnight Sunday, June 22 | 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.
• More Information at stjohn23school.org/thefestival
INAUGURAL HONOR
A community’s gift: Middletown band shines at inauguration, thanks to unwavering support. BY
■ THE HISTORY of the American marching band dates back to 1798, when the Marine Corps formed our nation’s first military band. How fitting, then, that over 220 years later, a marching band of young people— dressed sharply in their uniforms and playing their instruments with pride in the nation’s capital—would be the honored guests of one of Middletown’s own: a Marine and the Vice President of the United States, JD Vance.
For many years, Middletown’s Band Department has upheld a longstanding tradition of excellence. Under the high school direction of David Leisten and Amy Hoevel, and the middle school direction of Alex McCoy, the students of Middletown are continually blessed with top-notch leadership and support—a fact reflected in their achievements. With talented ensembles such as the Marching Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Wind Ensemble,
KATIE SIMPSON
and Pep Band, it’s no surprise that the music programs within Middletown have enjoyed such success. The Marching Band alone has competed and qualified for state contests for over 20 consecutive years, regularly earning Superior ratings, a true testament to the talent and dedication of its students.
Throughout the year, the band participates in various parades, performs within the community, hosts concerts, and, of course, can be found at Middies football games on Friday nights in the fall. These experiences have honed the skills and adaptability the students would need for the remarkable journey they were about to undertake—a historic moment for both the school and the city of Middletown.
On November 5, 2024, a Middie named JD Vance became the Vice President of the United States. A graduate of Middletown High School, JD served as
Senior Class Vice President—ironically enough—and graduated with an Honors Diploma in 2003. His deep connection to Middletown and its people has always been central to his identity. So, it was hardly surprising that, just weeks before Middletown’s winter break, a call came through: Vice President Vance wanted the Middletown Marching Band to perform as his guest at the Inauguration Day Parade.
At a time when school staff are typically preparing for their muchneeded Winter Break, the staff and administration at Middletown High School, along with those at the district’s Central Offices, were about to hit the ground running, working to prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime
opportunity. From fundraising and getting uniforms fitted to finding transportation and lodging, securing the necessary documentation for security clearances, and still finding time to practice (since marching band wasn’t exactly in season at that point), they had a lot to accomplish in a short amount of time. Trips of this magnitude usually take about a year to plan, but the Marching Band, Color Guard, and Cheerleaders had just five weeks.
It’s often said that it takes a village, and for the Middletown Band Department, this rings true. Whether it’s a trip of a lifetime, competition season, or the day-to-day needs of the music program, the Middletown community is a steadfast supporter. The Middletown
Musical Arts Club (also known as the Middie Music Boosters), students’ families, friends, and community members consistently step up to ensure the program runs smoothly, season after season. When the invitation to perform at the Inauguration Day Parade arrived, this village wasted no time. They tackled every task—big or small—to support the students and band directors, making the trip possible. Without their unwavering dedication, neither this journey nor the ongoing success of Middletown’s musical arts would have been achievable.
After weeks of preparation, the students were finally ready to embark on their big trip. With buses loaded, they hit the road. Snow extended their journey by four hours, but they eventually arrived at their destination, eager to showcase what it means to be a Middie. However, just as the snowy, frigid weather impacted their travel, it also affected the parade. After much speculation, officials announced that the outdoor parade would be canceled—a decision that initially disappointed Middletonian’s who were eager to see their Middies march into history on television. Fortunately, a smaller, condensed version of the parade was quickly relocated to Capital One Arena. Originally planned to feature 50 to 60 groups, the event was scaled back to just seven participants—and thanks to their connection to Vice President Vance,
the Middletown Marching Band and Cheerleaders were among them.
When asked if he was pleased with the decision to move indoors, Director David Leisten responded, “Absolutely! Even though it presented some challenges, it was the best outcome possible.” The indoor setting provided a climate-controlled environment, gentler on the sound and pitch of instruments and easier on the performers’ breathing—especially compared to the brutal cold they would have faced outside. Better still, the move indoors meant significantly more camera time. An outdoor parade would have offered only a fleeting moment on television, but with just seven acts performing inside—and the President and Vice President safely seated and
watching—the Middies had far more time to shine for a global audience.
Their moment had finally arrived. With the Color Guard proudly waving beautiful purple flags bearing the bold Middies “M,” the Marching Band stood poised and self-assured, while the Cheerleaders led the way with radiant smiles that lit up the arena. As poms, flags, and instruments rose, Middletown’s fight song rang out proudly, a late addition that tugged at the heartstrings of so many back home. Paired with the patriotic “America’s Sweet Land of Liberty,” it was a flawless blend of school pride and national spirit, uniting two worlds in harmony.
Regardless of political perspectives, there’s no denying that this trip was an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It allowed students to be part of history, create lasting memories with friends, and witness the grandeur of a presidential inauguration firsthand. Perhaps most importantly, it offered them a powerful lesson: no matter who you are, no matter how tough life gets, or how steep the odds may seem, you always have the power to become whoever you aspire to be.
Congratulations to the Middies Marching Band, Color Guard, and Cheerleaders—you made us all proud and represented your school and city with distinction.
