Noontime Gardener Year In Review. Amy Maurer for Bexley Public Radio

Now that the days are getting longer, the Noontime Gardener is emerging from a semi-dormant state and looking toward sun and warmth and all those things that start the annual recycling of plant life. The seed catalogs arrive in January!



I feel the need to decide which plant to pick for the 2010 "Plants You Should Get to Know" observation. In 2007 we followed the paw paws as they grew, flowered, fruited, and senesced in golden splendor in the Fall. In 2008 a north Bexley Ziziphus jujuba got a similar review. 2009 wasn't quite so exciting. We're all familiar with mulberries. They grow up in the most inconvenient spots from seeds dropped by passing birds and rummaging rodents. They become gnarly pests in the alleys and hedgerows of our neighborhoods, and if I were to draw a haunted house I would surely place a mulberry tree in the picture. But, if the wildlife love them so much that they persistently keep them growing, perhaps we are missing something. If I had found some lower branching trees I would have baked these fruits into a delicious pie, but picking them up off the ground doesn't work well. Mulberries are so fragile - the goodness is too easily dissolved in the water and washed away. So, alas, no goodies came to the studio this year. Any suggestions for 2010?

Three fairly new books became part of my personal library this year. Now that the Bexley Public Library levy has passed, they should find their way onto the shelves and be read by more people. Niall Edworthy's typically tongue-in-cheek British humor makes The Curious Gardener's Almanac appealing to everyone, but remember that central Ohio and the English countryside do have significant differences. I cite page 29: "No matter how severe a summer drought, no one's lawn has ever died from lack of water. It can survive up to eight months without rain." Don't follow this advice. I guarantee your lawn will die here in central Ohio. As for the book, no garden experience necessary, and it's already in the Bexley Library.

My husband patiently caters to my chlorophyll-induced cravings and gifted me with The Teeth of the Lion by Anita Sanchez for my birthday. It's everything you could ever want to know about the lowly and much maligned dandelion, whose commonality makes it one of the lowliest of the plants we relegate to "weed" status. Again, a garden book even a non-gardener can enjoy.

Wicked Plants, subtitled The Weed that Killed Lincoln's Mother and Other Botanical Atrocities by Amy Stewart is a wake-up call for anyone who might be delusional enough to think that if it's natural, it can't hurt me. Yes, there are a great many plants which should never appear on the dinner table, with graphic accounts of what could happen if they did, and some with historical biographies to illustrate the point. Not a book for those with paranoid tendencies, but perhaps a good alternative for ghost stories around a campfire. The pen-and-ink illustrations are almost as exciting as the text.

The station management (not I) instituted the first annual tomato growing contest. It sounded like a great idea at first, but my excitement has succumbed to a vision some years hence when we have been so successful at promoting this activity, that I have to visit and interview more gardens than there are daylight hours to do it all in. I might develop a real aversion to tomatoes - perhaps even break out in hives when I see one. Or, more practically, I may have to train the management on the fine art of tomato judging and spread the burden of finding Bexley's best fruits.

Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.

Design is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Amy Maurer.

Laura Franks’ Dividend Note No. 18, December 30, 2009 on Bexley Public Radio.

This is a report on twelve companies that have increased dividends. It is an occasional note by Laura Franks.

This informal collection marks dividend increases for mostly U.S. stocks.

Bexley Public Radio hopes this is a positive note amidst the usual uncertainty of Wall Street and financial markets.

Laura’s commentary and analysis is sometimes offered in this informal journal.


AT & T, Inc. (NYSE: T) DALLAS Dec. 21, 2009 today announced that its board of directors has approved a 2.4 percent increase in the company’s quarterly dividend. AT&T has increased its quarterly dividend for 26 consecutive years, a record unmatched among major telecom companies.

AT&T directors increased the dividend rate from $0.41 to $0.42 per share on a quarterly basis and from $1.64 to $1.68 per share on an annual basis.

“Our 26th consecutive annual dividend increase underscores the Board’s continued commitment to stockholders and confidence in our strong financial position,” said Randall Stephenson, AT&T chairman and chief executive officer.
The dividend will be payable Feb. 1, 2010, to common stockholders of record on Jan. 8, 2010.

AT&T Inc. is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates, AT&T operating companies, are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. Among their offerings are the world’s most advanced IP-based business communications services, the nation’s fastest 3G network and the best wireless coverage worldwide, and the nation’s leading high speed Internet access and voice services. In domestic markets, AT&T is known for the directory publishing and advertising sales leadership of its Yellow Pages and YELLOWPAGES.COM organizations, and the AT&T brand is licensed to innovators in such fields as communications equipment. As part of their three-screen integration strategy, AT&T operating companies are expanding their TV entertainment offerings. In 2009, AT&T again ranked No. 1 in the telecommunications industry on FORTUNE® magazine’s list of the World’s Most Admired Companies.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE: BMY) New York, Dec. 21, 2009 The Board of Directors of Bristol-Myers Squibb Company declared a 3.2 percent increase in the company’s quarterly dividend, beginning in the first quarter of 2010. “This dividend increase reflects our ongoing commitment to deliver shareholder value,” said James M. Cornelius, chairman and chief executive officer of Bristol-Myers Squibb. “We have made excellent progress in executing our strategy and we are confident in the streng

Cal-Maine Foods (NASDAQ:CALM) Jackson, MS, Dec. 28, 2009 declared its dividend of 17.2 cents per share, an increase of about 19% over its prior dividend. With the dividend, the company also announced earnings that beat analysts estimates, despite the forty percent drop in net income.

In trading, shares of Cal-Maine were show strong gains, up more than ten percent on the news.


Chimera Investment (NYSE:CIM) New York, Dec. 22, 2009 increased its quarterly dividend to seventeen cents per share, an increase of about forty two percent from its prior dividend.

Based on the current share price, investors can expect a yield of about sixteen percent going forward.

In afternoon trading, shares of Chimera were trading higher, up almost three and a half percent following the dividend increase.


Ensign Group (NASDAQ: ENSG) Mission Viejo, CA., Dec. 21, 2009 announced today that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.05 per share of Ensign common stock, which is an increase from the prior quarterly cash dividend of $0.045 per share. The dividend, which was unanimously approved by the Board on December 17, 2009, is payable on or before January 31, 2010 to shareholders of record as of December 31, 2009.

“We are pleased to be able to share the results of Ensign's strong 2009 growth and operating performance with our shareholders," commented Ensign President and Chief Executive Officer Christopher Christensen. "The increased dividend is consistent with our past practice, and reflects our continued confidence in our operating model," he added.
Ensign has been a dividend-paying company since 2002.

The Ensign Group, Inc.'s independent operating subsidiaries provide a broad spectrum of skilled nursing and assisted living services, physical, occupational and speech therapies, hospice services, and other rehabilitative and healthcare services for both long-term residents and short-stay rehabilitation patients at 77 facilities in California, Arizona, Texas, Washington, Utah, Idaho and Colorado. More information about Ensign is available at http://www.ensigngroup.net.


First of Long Island Corporation (Nasdaq:FLIC) GLEN HEAD, N.Y., Dec. 22, 2009 announced today the declaration of a fourth quarter cash dividend in the amount of 20 cents per share. This brings the total cash dividends declared in 2009 to 76 cents per share, representing a 15% increase over the 66 cents per share declared in 2008. The dividend will be paid on January 8, 2010 to shareholders of record on December 31, 2009.

The First National Bank of Long Island is the sole subsidiary of The First of Long Island Corporation. The Bank currently has fifteen full service offices, twelve commercial banking offices and two select service banking centers in Nassau and Suffolk Counties and Manhattan.


Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE: BEN) San Mateo, CA, Dec. 18, 2009 announced a quarterly cash dividend in the amount of $0.22 per share payable on January 8, 2010 to stockholders of record holding shares of common stock at the close of business on December 31, 2009. The quarterly dividend of $0.22 represents a 5% increase over the dividends paid the prior quarter and the same quarter last year.

Franklin Resources has raised its dividend every year since 1981.

Additionally, the Company's Board of Directors today declared a special cash dividend in the amount of $3.00 per share payable on December 31, 2009 to stockholders of record holding shares of common stock at the close of business on December 28, 2009.
These dividends are consistent with the Company's long-term capital management strategy of continuing to invest in the business, maintaining financial strength and flexibility, and returning a substantial portion of the Company's earnings to stockholders through common stock repurchases and the payment of dividends.

Franklin Resources, Inc. is a global investment management organization operating as Franklin Templeton Investments. Franklin Templeton Investments provides global and domestic investment management solutions managed by its Franklin, Templeton, Mutual Series, Fiduciary Trust, Darby and Bissett investment teams. The San Mateo, CA-based company has more than 60 years of investment experience and over $539 billion in assets under management as of November 30, 2009.

Isabella Bank Corporation (OTC: ISBA) Mt. Pleasant, MI, Dec. 27, 2009, has announced that it increasing its aggregate annual cash dividend for the 28th consecutive year.

At the board's regular meeting Dec. 17, it declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of 13 cents per share and a special cash dividend of 19 cents per share, for a total cash dividend for the fourth quarter of 32 cents per share, payable Dec. 31, with a record date of Dec. 17.

Including the total fourth quarter dividend of 32 cents per share the corporation will have paid a total cash dividend of 70 cents per share in 2009, representing a 7.69 percent increase over the 65 cents paid in 2008. Based on the corporation's average closing price during November 2009 of $16.50, the corporation's dividend yield is 4.24 percent.

To assist current and prospective shareholders in calculating the corporation's dividend yield, and consistent with industry practice, the board approved a resolution stating its current intent to pay future dividends in equal quarterly amounts, according to a press release. Any future dividend payments will depend upon the Corporation's financial position and action by the Board at that time.

The board also examined its past practice of issuing a 10 percent stock dividend every other year, particularly in light of the current poor economic climate. The board concluded that it would be in the best interest of its shareholders to discontinue the 10 percent stock dividend and focus on the value of each share rather than increasing the number of shares outstanding, according to the press release.

Landauer, Inc. (NYSE: LDR) Glenwood, IL, Dec. 3, 2009 announced today that its Board of Directors increased the regular quarterly cash dividend to $0.5375 per share for the first quarter of fiscal 2010. This increase represents an annual rate of $2.15 per share compared with $2.10 last year. The dividend will be paid on January 4, 2010 to shareholders of record on December 11, 2009.

Landauer is the world's leading provider of technical and analytical services to determine occupational and environmental radiation exposure and is the leading domestic provider of outsourced medical physics services. For more than 50 years, the Company has provided complete radiation dosimetry services to hospitals, medical and dental offices, universities, national laboratories, nuclear facilities and other industries in which radiation poses a potential threat to employees. Landauer's services include the manufacture of various types of radiation detection monitors, the distribution and collection of the monitors to and from clients, and the analysis and reporting of exposure findings. The Company provides its dosimetry services to approximately 1.6 million people in the United States, Japan, France, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Canada, China, Australia, Mexico and other countries. In addition, through its Global Physics Solutions subsidiary, the Company provides therapeutic and diagnostic physics services and educational services to the medical physics community.

PSB Holdings, (OTCBB – PSBQ) Wausau, WI, Dec. 22, 2009 the parent company of Peoples State Bank of Wausau has announced an increase in its semi-annual cash dividend.
As of Jan. 29 next year, PSB Holdings will pay 35 cents per share to shareholders of record as of Jan. 11, 2010, according to a news release. The dividend is an increase from the 34 cents per share PSB declared in 2008.
The bank is headquartered in Wausau but has eight locations throughout north central Wisconsin.

Pink OTC Markets Inc. (pink.pk) Dec. 28, 2009 has recently listed on the pink sheets, as it was a privately held limited liability corporation prior to 2008.

The company also announced that its Board of Directors authorized a quarterly cash dividend on its Class A common stock of $0.04 per share. The dividend is payable on January 8, 2010 to stockholders of record on December 22, 2009. This dividend payment represents an increase in the quarterly cash dividend of $0.01 per share, or 33% from the prior dividend rate of $0.03 per share.¨

Village Super Market, Inc. (NASDAQ: VLGEA) Dec, 18, 2009 announced that it has declared a 4% increase in the quarterly cash dividend. The increased quarterly cash dividends are $0.24 per Class A common share and $0.156 per Class B common share. The dividends will be payable on January 21, 2010 to shareholders of record at the close of business on January 4, 2010.



Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.

Design is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Laura Franks.

Spanish language news. Monday December 28, 2009. David Alexander for Bexley Public Radio.

.
Your Spanish language lesson for the week of Monday December 21, 2009 through Thursday December 24, 2009. Follow along with David Alexander as he reads some news items in Spanish language.

Questions?

Email David Alexander at wcrxlp@yahoo.com or call the station at (614) 235 2929.

TUESDAY DECEMBER 29, 2009

Turista estadounidense se ahoga en Vieques, Puerto Rico

(American tourist drowns in Vieques, Puerto Rico)

Durante el fin de semana una turista de Estados Unidos se ahogó en la popular isla turística de Vieques. Cherlin Lin, de 28 años, nadaba en el mar junto a la Playa Esperanza cuando la arrastraron unas corrientes fuertes. El cadáver de Lin, oriunda del estado de Nueva York, fue hallado el domingo. En cuanto al prognóstico meteorológico, se habían previsto oleajes peligrosos para la región hasta el miércoles.

(www.elnuevoherald.com, AP América Latina, el 28 de diciembre)


Se abre nuevo centro cultural de la Misión San Luis en la Florida

(New Cultural Center for the San Luis Mission is opened in Florida)

En Tallahassee, la Florida, se ha abierto un nuevo centro cultural de la Misión de San Luis que pretende poner de relieve la importancia del legado hispano en la historia del estado. Es a saber, en el siglo XVII la corona española tenía un importante enclave militar y religioso en la región donde convivían los colonizadores españoles y los indios apalaches que hasta contrataron el matrimonio entre ellos. El declive del asentamiento llegó a principios del siglo XVIII debido a los frecuentes asaltos e incursiones británicas. El nuevo museo y edifico presentan esta herencia y despertarán el interés en amantes de la historia con una exhibición de artefactos de la época colonial. El gobernador Charlie Crist resaltó la importancia del sitio que es el único asentamiento, salvo Nombre de Dios en San Agustín, que se conserva de la época de colonización española. Es más, el cónsul general de España en la Florida, Santiago Cabañas, agregó que el centro mostró el compromiso del estado de la Florida para con su pasado histórico y su interés por preservarlo.

(Agencia EFE, el 28 de diciembre)




MONDAY DECEMBER 28, 2009.

Fallece el ex-presidente de Venezuela

(Former Venezuelan president dies)

Rafael Caldera, el ex-mandatario venezolano, acaba de fallecer el pasado jueves a la edad de 93 años tras una larga batalla contra el mal de Parkinson. Caldera gobernó el país de 1969 a 1974 y de 1994 a 1999 y entre otras contribuciones a la vida política de Venezuela, fundó el partido socialcristiano Copei y firmó el Pacto Punto Fijo que asentó las bases para la democracia tras la muerte del dictador Marcos Pérez Jiménez a finales de los años 50. De hecho, antes de morir criticó el actual gobierno de Hugo Chávez, a que cedió el poder en 1999, calificándolo de autocrático además de representar un retroceso político para Venezuela. Caldera, que fue abogado y doctor en ciencias políticas, nació en 1916 en San Felipe en el norte del país. Fue sepultado en Caracas el sábado sin honores de estado.

(AFP, el 26 de diciembre)

Perú negocia un tratado de comercio con Centroamérica

(Peru negotiates trade agreement with Central America)

En mayo de 2010 el gobierno del Perú negociará un Tratado de Libre Comercio (TLC) con Centroamérica. Tales negociaciones seguirán las mismas líneas de las que el gobierno peruano acaba de tener con la Unión Europea. De ahí que, el Perú va a dialogar uno por uno con todos los países centroamericanos en una ronda que permita el análisis de los temas comerciales de forma bilateral. Según un ministro, las primeras negociaciones podrían comenzarse en Costa Rica el próximo septiembre.

(AFP, el 27 de diciembre)




El colectivo editorial de WCRX-LP
La fundación de la radioemisora pública de Bexley
transmite a través de WCRX-LP 102.FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

La fundación de la radioemisora pública de Bexley está extenta de impuesto federales bajo la sección 501 (c) del IRC. Cualesquiera donaciones se pueden deducir de los impuestos federales para indiviuos que detallaren sus deducciones. Cheques pagables a Bexley Public Radio Foundation o WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM. El diseño es copyright 2009. Todos los derechos reservados. La radioemisora pública de Bexley. El texto es copyright 2009. Todos los derechos reservados. David Alexander

Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.

Design is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Except for news report text, translation and other text is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. David Alexander.

Bobby Floyd Trio at Bexley's Monk. Annelise Maurer review for Bexley Public Radio.

Friday evening, December 18, 2009. I have never been to the Monk before but tonight I’m going there to listen to a jazz group and write a review of the music for Bexley Public Radio. This will be my first visit to the Monk and my first radio report ever, if the radio station accepts my review.

Bexley’s Monk. The “monastery” across East Main Street from Trinity Lutheran Seminary.

I'm a musician but not really into jazz. This is a new experience for me and I’m going to hear the Bobby Floyd Trio as a favor for friends at Bexley Public Radio. The review is extra. I wonder if the radio station will broadcast my review.

I don’t know what to expect but upon approaching the Monk’s front door, the members of the band welcome me with smiles and nods through the window. I am glad to have come.

I arrive perhaps five minutes late. The house is full. What a beautiful venue! Warm, tasteful, polished. The atmosphere is a perfect match to the alternating carols and standards wafting above the highly sophisticated din of the main bar.

I circle the house several times slowly, in the hopes that an open seat might somehow appear. “This is a classy place,” I note to myself, “and I am glad I dressed well.”

Not that it matters in any practical sense, since, having secured the corner seat most longitudinally distant from the band, try as I might, I can not get a drink.

Instead I get stares. Has some disaster befallen my hair, my scarf ... no. Am I young, alone, and unable to afford more than one modest well drink? Indeed, and it is as if the accomplished and affluent have sniffed me out. I love you, Bexley, I'm one of yours. Why the attitude?

I recall the half-year I lived on Martha’s Vineyard: once in a blue moon I’d put down my farm-work for a cocktail and some fresh catch in town, only to be stared at, and stared at, and stared at, or simply gazed straight through as if I didn’t live and breathe at all. Massachusetts royalists, Massachusetts Tories. But I don’t expect this attitude in Ohio. There are no Tories in the Midwest.

At the Monk, a couple standing behind me ask for some beers, and are quickly acknowledged, and served. Yet here I sit, and all I’ve managed to garner is a wine list plus absolutely no kind of practical attention from patron or staff.

Until, miraculously, half an hour later, an older distinguished gentlemen shows up: my father. Within seconds we are waited upon. Magically, two better seats free up.

I let my feelings of inadequacy slide and get down to the pleasure of really listening to the music.

The Bobby Floyd Trio, featuring Columbus’ own Bobby Floyd at piano, Reggie Jackson on drums and Derek DiCenzo on bass. These musicians wear the absolute calmest, happiest expressions as they toss melody and key change back and forth like casual banter among old friends.

That's one way to tell a good ensemble: they move as an organism. Symbiosis.

You can also tell that Individually, they’re accomplished artists, completely at home in their medium, as evidenced by their solos.

A classical pianist myself, I focus my attention on Mr. Floyd, and find the experience akin to hearing a foreign language: the reason and meaning are lost on me, but the sound-shapes and expressive subtleties are just curious enough to grab a good hold of my attention and keep the interest going.

Admittedly, I leave before the trio’s three-hour set is up; after one very excellent Rob Roy my stomach reminds me that I'd skipped dinner, and I think I can’t afford to feel hungry here.

The trio plays on, a medley of Christmas carols now, and the crowd mellows, as I pull on my hand-me-down coat and gloves.

Outside it is snowing. A charming evening for a Christmas prelude.

Editor’s note: Annelise writes “once in a blue moon” about dining out during her summer of farm labor on Martha’s Vineyard

On Thursday December 31 this year there is a blue moon. The full moon that will appear on the last day of calendar year 2009 is the second full moon of that month and hence it is a blue moon

Editor’s second note. Annelise’s father should have arrived earlier and offered his daughter dinner that evening at the Monk.

Editor's third note: The Bobby Floyd Trio returns to Bexley's Monk Friday January 15, 2010.

Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.

Design is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Annelise Maurer.

Feng Shui and the art of listening to Bexley Public Radio.

Car radios receive the WCRX-LP signal everywhere within the I-270 circle of concrete that surrounds metropolitan Columbus.

Inside houses and buildings, listeners complain about reception problems. And even no reception at all.

The usual advice for solving these problems is to buy a better radio.

Other solutions that listeners have used include adjusting the lay of the AC power cord attached to the radio. If the radio has an extension antenna, adjusting the antenna and the body of the radio also provide possible solutions.

In addition to these solutions, Lee Edmondson offers a unique approach to reception problems she experienced in her Bexley residence.

Lee’s solution is to apply principles of feng shui to connecting to Bexley Public Radio.

Lee lives near Alum Creek in Bexley and had difficulty receiving the WCRX-LP signal in her residence.

Lee is familiar with feng shui principles and decided to apply them in positioning her radio for receiving Bexley Public Radio.

She began by unplugging her radio and setting it near the center of her residence.

She then relaxed in the approximate center of her first floor and near the radio.

After achieving a calmness and becoming aware of her surroundings she concentrated on her purpose in applying feng shui.

This seemingly simple task turned out to be the most difficult part of the Lee’s exercise.

Her purpose was more than receiving an electronic signal from a distant transmitter and antenna.

As Lee relaxed and focused her mind, the list of purposes grew. Hearing the voices of friends, hearing information on local events in her neighborhood. Listening to lunch specials at Bexley lunch spots. Arranging her tasks according to cultural events scheduled near her residence. Distraction from vexatious problems. Relaxation. All these purposes came to her mind.

During this initial process, the complexity of Lee’s purposes began to resolve itself into Lee’s recognition of Ch’i.

She continued this exercise by making a mental inventory of the objects in her residence. She observed them in relationship to the geometric planes of her rooms and hallways.

She also noted the moveable objects in her yard. And, the living fixed objects, trees, shrubs and grasses were also noted.

Her awareness of stationary objects, the buildings, sidewalks, driveways and curbs, were tinctured with an understanding of their ages, purposes and condition.

Lee concentrated on each of these objects, those inside and outside. She made mental notes as to how the objects helped her achieve purposes that were connected to why she wanted to receive the Bexley Public Radio signal.

This exercise resulted in Lee identifying several objects in her house that were no longer needed and she gave them away. In particular, she understood that a table was a major impediment to receiving the Bexley Public Radio signal. She gave the table away. A simple, very ordinary charitable gesture.

Lee then moved to each of the major entrances to her first floor. At each of the doors and windows, she relaxed and concentrated on her purposes.

She also moved her location and concentration to the major openings on her second floor.

From this exercise she identified locations that were conducive to her purpose. And Lee experimented, plugging the radio into locations that were compatible with her identification of Ch’i. Her north wall parallels East Main Street was important in its relationship to Ch'i. The microwave, whether working or not, was a major impediment. A ficus tree was very compatible with Ch'i. Her plug-in clean scent was compatible with Ch'i and the aroma was helpful in Lea's mental efforts.

Outside, Lee made a concentrated effort to identify the contours of the land in her neighborhood. She also developed an awareness of the dominance of nearby Alum Creek in relation to Ch’i.

Lee began this process in late summer '08 after the Summer Equinox and continued the process until the Winter Solstice, making adjustments to the location of objects inside and outside her residence.

This exercise of feng shui has been successful and Lee receives Bexley Public Radio on her home radio.

The reception is still imperfect but it is real and helps Lee achieve her purposes in listening to Bexley Public Radio.

Relaxation.

Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.

Design is copyright 2008. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text is copyright 2008. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation.

Christmas eve and Christmas day programming on Bexley Public Radio.

Clint Marsh of Wonderella Printed has given permission to Bexley Public Radio to read his portions of the Bonita Hollow Christmas Packet.

Program hosts on Thursday and Friday will read those portions of the Christmas Packet by Clint Marsh. The readings will accompany a presentation of "Snow-Bound, A Winter Idyl" This poem, by John Greenleaf Whittier, is a 19th-century classic winter poem. The descriptions of the winter snow fall will sound familiar to all who experienced the central Ohio ice storm of 2004. Bexley Public Radio staffers read the poem on air last Christmas day

The Bonito Hollow Christmas Packet is published by Wonderella Printed . Wonderella Printed describes itself as a pamphleteer. But it is more than that. It is an elegant small press. It is a printer of editions of comfortable classics and new writings.

Touch their product and you'll want to read.

Wonderella Printed at www.wonderella.org. Clint Marsh writes:

Hi Kurt!
Really good to hear from you. Many of the copyrights for the material in the Bonita Hollow Christmas Packet are held by other people, but many of the pieces quote older sources in the public domain. Here are the parts you could read on-air (starting from the beginning):

* The welcome (although that's a bit irrelevant to people outside my social circle)
* The Thomas Tusser pages
* "How to Drive the Cold Winter Away"
* The wassail bits
* The "Holiday Wisdom" quotes
* "It Is Now Christmas..." from the last page

Thank you, and Merry Christmas!
Clint

Bexley Community Foundation set to benefit all residents by John Matuszak for Bexley Public Radio.

For more than two decades, the Bexley Education Foundation has provided innovative programs and state-of-the-art facilities for the city's schools by tapping into the community's deep philanthropic and volunteer spirit - and without drawing on taxpayer dollars.

Now, a new entity, the Bexley Community Foundation, is set to mine that same rich vein for projects that will benefit all citizens, without breaking an already tight city budget.

"This is community pride made visible," Doug Kridler, head of the Columbus Foundation, said to the many local leaders and Bexley boosters who attended the Dec. 17 meeting at the Columbus Foundation headquarters.

Kridler also made it clear that this effort is something every Bexley resident can participate in and benefit from. "This is not our community foundation. This is your community foundation."

The mission of the Bexley Community Foundation, according to Peter Halliday, co-chairman of the steering committee and driving force behind its creation, is to "maintain and improve Bexley as a place to live, work and play."

Those goals will be achieved by giving residents a way to donate either their personal wealth or their time as volunteers.

A survey conducted earlier this year showed that 90 of respondents were likely or very likely to give to the community foundation, and 85 were likely or very likely to volunteer.

The foundation hopes to fund one or two projects in its first year.
The Bexley Community Foundation grew out of the Bexley Heritage Fund, that started 10 years ago with five families and $50,000.

Projects undertaken in that time, Halliday pointed out, include supplementing the salary of Bexley's first development director, Dan Lorek, whose efforts resulted in $47 million being invested along Main Street.

The Heritage Fund also helped spruce up the city's gateways and mounted the "Save Jeffrey Mansion" campaign, which led to the city spending $1.3 million for urgently needed exterior repairs.

There is a lot left to do in Bexley but it is clear that without a strong commercial tax base "resources are outpaced by the needs and expectations of the community," commented steering committe co-chair Susan Quintenz, who also serves on the city's Tree and Public Gardens Commission.

Viable communities have strong public-private partnerships, she added. The tree commission raises private funds, but can go nowhere without the cooperation of city officials, she said.

The Bexley Community Foundation seeks to model itself on similar organizations around the state and the country.

New Albany has had a community foundation for 14 years, noted Diana Newman, a consultant with the Benefactor Group, and has funded a lecture series, a safety town for kids and a cultural arts center.

Halliday has long pushed for renovations to Jeffrey Mansion and additions to its offerings that will make it self-sufficient, much of which has been beyond the financial resources of the city.

Other possibilities for Bexley could include promotion of lifelong learning through its many educational institutions, and the creation of a more environmentally friendly "green community," Quintenz offered.

The foundation has already drawn from the well of experience and civic commitment for its steering committee. Halliday and Gary Giller will be heading up the committee for resource development, which will encompass building an endowment and creating a planned giving program.

Finance and accountabilty will be the responsibility of Frank Reed and David Bolon, who are promising transparency in their operations.

Grantmaking and community relations will be overseen by Judith Brachman and DeeDee Glimcher.

Communications and marketing will be handled by Kyle Katz and Kelly Unangst.

With a steering committee in place, the next steps will include recruiting a board of directors, finding office space, hiring an adminstrator and searching for a full-time president. Halliday said the presidential search will probably take place in the second half of the year.

Jim Gross, former city attorney and councilman, has been advising on the legal issues. He reported that the Bexley Community Foundation has been incorporated as a non-profit organization, and its application for tax-exempt status has been filed with the IRS, with a determination expected by the end of the second quarter of 2010.

Those interested in contributing to the Bexley Community Foundation before it has received its tax-exempt status can make checks payable to the Columbus Foundation, with Bexley Heritage Fund written on the memo line

Peter Halliday is Wednesday guest on Bexley Public Radio.

Peter Halliday, co-chairman of the steering committee for the newly formed Bexley Community Foundation, will be a guest on Eastside News Round-Up Wednesday, Dec. 23, at 11 a.m.

Mr. Halliday, a Bexley resident, will talk about the goals for the organization that will raise funds and recruit volunteers for projects that will benefit the community.

He is the founder of the Bexley Heritage Fund and has been a leading advocate for the restoration of Jeffrey Mansion through community donations used in conjunction with city resources.

Listeners interested in more details can find material on the Bexley municipal website at www.bexley.org. Follow leads to "Bexley Community Foundation."

To provide your thoughts and comments on the proposed community foundation, take the formal survey go to : http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=tjTdfsZfpfWE8wIk2jDozg_3d_3d. If this web address doesn't work, the survey is also on the website at www.bexley.org.

Laura Franks reports price decline for fourth quarter, 2009 CPI

This is Laura Franks reporting the Bexley Consumer Price Index for the fourth Quarter, 2009.

The Bexley CPI reports on the aggregate prices paid for a uniform basket of merchandise purchased at retail in Bexley and nearby retail stores.


The Bexley CPI measures the change of prices for typical retail purchases made by Bexley residents.

The Bexley Consumer Price Index can be compared to the price changes reported by the Bureau of Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. The comparison can provide useful information for Bexley consumers about local price changes compared to price changes in other parts of the United States.

As of the fourth quarter, 2009 compared to the third quarter, 2009, Bexley prices showed a 7% decrease. Of significance this quarter is that half of the items in the market basket have increased in price, but due to a few of the items being marked down the overall total is actually the second lowest of the year. Therefore, what I have to say is “sales are good and it is always nice to live in Bexley.”

This is Laura Franks for the WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM Bexley Consumer Price Index Report.

Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.

Design is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Laura Franks.

Vinocur receives award from New Horizons group.

Vinocur Receives Special Thanks from New Horizons Seniors

The New Horizons 60+ Group for Active Seniors recently awarded a Certificate of Appreciation to New Horizons Program Director Debbie Vinocur.

New Horizons members Joan Steinberg and Zelda Garver presented Vinocur with the award, stating it was in recognition of all of the wonderful things she does for the group.

“Your kindness, thoughtfulness, and patience is a blessing to us,” said Steinberg to Vinocur as she presented the plaque. “G-d bless you.”

In the photo above, Vinocur receives a hug from Garver. The New Horizons program offers active seniors a variety of social activities, field trips, and educational seminars, as well as weekday Kosher lunches. For more information on the New Horizons group, visit the JCC website at www.columbusjcc.org, or call (614) 231-2731.

Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.

Design is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Editorial Collective.

Miss Whitehall 2009 lights the Whitehall Christmas Tree. Reported by Dianne Garrett for WCRX-LP.

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Whitehall Mayor John Wolfe wished a heart felt Merry Christmas to all who attended the December 1 holiday city lighting ceremony. He made it clear that his wish was for a Merry Christmas, even if others feel it is politically incorrect. Holiday revelers were treated to cookies and warm beverages by the Whitehall Community Celebration Association.

Throwing the switch this year was Miss Whitehall 2009, Danielle Crosier, who is an eighth grade student at Rosemore Middle School. The petite Danielle soon realized that she could not reach the switch, so Mayor Wolfe assisted her with a grandfatherly lift, to the delight of attendees. Pictured just beyond Crosier and Wolfe is Whitehall Yearling High School band director, Chris Herrmann. The high school band provided Christmas music for the event.








Pausing for a cute picture with the snowman at city hall were Megan Euton, 9, and siblings, Connor, 6 and Madison, 8.












Councilwoman Leslie LaCorte held her granddaughter, Abella Bishop, who was blowing kisses to the baby, Jesus, in the city's manger scene.

Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.

Design is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text and photos are copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Dianne Garrett.

One special Christmas by Dianne Garrett.

I was awakened on December 23, 2004 by loud popping noises and flashes of light at about 3 a.m. It wasn't too long before I also started hearing some unusual cracking noises, and then my husband, Jack, waking me up to see what was happening. We were getting pounded by an ice storm.

My mind quickly went back to when I was a little girl in Wilmington, Ohio remembering a severe ice storm. All those memories flooded me as I looked in amazement out my window. I jolted back to what I was seeing, and realized that since we were trained for disasters, we would probably get a call to deploy in Whitehall.

In the dark house, we fumbled around to find warm clothing, coats, boots, extra layers, flash lights, and anything we could think of to keep ourselves warm and ready for deployment. Jack and I both trained that year for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Therefore, knowing what to do in these situations was still fresh. The call came pretty fast. Oops, the garage door couldn't open to get one vehicle out, and the other car and RV were each frozen in a thick box of ice.

A fellow CERT volunteer picked us up and dropped us at our assigned post to manage...the Whitehall Senior Center. Ninety percent of the city was without electricity, but the center and Whitehall Community Park had electricity, so they became shelters. The park housed families, and the senior center housed seniors and special needs. The command post was the fire station.

We quickly put our disaster plan into action for the next five days. Our city made the national news as the hardest hit in the nation. I volunteered a straight 98 hours, and of that time, I only worked in about six hours of dozing time. To say I ran on pure adrenalin is an understatement.

There is not enough space in this blog to share every detail of those five days, but I am sure that if you are reading this, you have your own memories of that Christmas. It will always go down as one of my most blessed Christmases in my lifetime. Helping people and keeping them safe during a very scary time was one of the greatest gifts God could have placed in my life.

From that experience I gained a number of new friends, and we have stayed in touch for the past five years. On December 18 this year, I invited them over to my home for a five year ice storm reunion party. Nine of us had a wonderful time of sharing and remembering that week, and all that transpired. We will forever be connected by the great ice storm of 2004, and reap the reward of friendship for the rest of our lives.

I pray that all of you will have a beautiful holiday season and a happy new year!



Jack Garrett and Scott Lincke setting up cots at the Whitehall senior center.


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Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.

Design is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text and photos are copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Dianne Garrett.

Tuesday December 22, 2009

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Your Spanish language lesson for the week of Monday December 21, 2009 through Thursday December 24, 2009. Follow along with David Alexander as he reads some news items in Spanish language.

Questions?

Email David Alexander at wcrxlp@yahoo.com or call the station at (614) 235 2929.


TUESDAY DECEMBER 22, 2009

Se descubre plan de asesinar al jefe dominicano antidrogas

(A plot is discovered to assassinate Dominican anti-drug czar)

Las autoridades dominicanas anunciaron que han descubierto un plan para matar a Rolando Rosado Mateo, el presidente de la Dirección Nacional de Control de Drogas, y a seis prisioneros. Los sobredichos presos se habían involucrado en un intento fallido hace un mes de contrabandear un cargamento de cocaína que tiraron de un avión antes de que aterrizara. Entre otros detalles, se dice que el cerebro del complot fue Ramón del Rosario Puente, un narcotraficante fugitivo. (www.elnuevoherald.com, AP América Latina, el 21 de diciembre)


Ataque contra tropas españolas en Afganistán

(Attack against Spanish troops in Afghanistan)

Unas unidades españolas que proporcionaban apoyo a un convoy del ejército afgano fueron hostigadas de fusilería y lanzagranadas en la ruta Lithium que va hacia Qala-I-Naw, capital de la provincia afgana de Badghis que se encuentra bajo la responsabilidad del ejército español. Una vez terminado el ataque las tropas siguieron con su misión de acompañar al convoy que se componía de más de 80 camiones afganos. Al momento no se han registrado bajas ni daños materiales. (www.elpais.com, el 21 de diciembre)


MONDAY DECEMBER 21, 2009.

Panameños protestan 20 aniversario de la invasión norteamericana.
(Panamanians protest 20th anniversary of American Invasion)

Un grupo de panameños manifestó este domingo enfrente de la antigua embajada de Estados Unidos para conmemorar el vigésimo aniversario de la invasión norteamericana a Panamá durante la presidencia de Bush padre, una medida con el fin de derrocar al ex-dictador Manuel Noriega. La manifestación fue organizada por el Frente Nacional de Defensa de los Derechos Económicos y Sociales (Frenadeso) y quiere poner de manifiesto la absoluta falta de seguridad, unos veinte años después del acontecimiento, de exactamente cuántos panameños murieron en el asalto de las tropas estadounidenses. A la sazón, familiares de los desaparecidos visitaron el Jardín de la Paz donde se encuentran restos de los que murieron durante la acción militar. La invasión tuvo lugar el 20 de diciembre 1989 y se calcula el número de fallecidos entre 472 y 500 mientras que otras entidades estiman que la cifra supera el millar. (www.elnuevoherald.com, AP América Latina, el 20 de diciembre)


Chávez decide cambiarle el nombre a Salto Ángel
(Chávez decides to change the name of Angel Falls)

Hugo Chávez, el presidente venezolano, ha declarado que quiere cambiarle el nombre a la popular catarata y foco turístico Salto Ángel a su nombre indígena Churúm Merú. Las espectaculares cascadas, que son las más altas del mundo, se denominan Salto Ángel en honor a Jimmy Angel, un explorador norteamericano que las “descubrió” en los años 30. Esta nueva medida del mandatario venezolano está vista por muchos como una agresión más a los intereses estadounidenses en la zona y una clara continuación de la política anti-EEUU de su gobierno. (www.eluniversal.com, Leda Piñedo, el 20 de diciembre)


El colectivo editorial de WCRX-LP
La fundación de la radioemisora pública de Bexley
transmite a través de WCRX-LP 102.FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

La fundación de la radioemisora pública de Bexley está extenta de impuesto federales bajo la sección 501 (c) del IRC. Cualesquiera donaciones se pueden deducir de los impuestos federales para indiviuos que detallaren sus deducciones. Cheques pagables a Bexley Public Radio Foundation o WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM. El diseño es copyright 2009. Todos los derechos reservados. La radioemisora pública de Bexley. El texto es copyright 2009. Todos los derechos reservados. David Alexander

Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.

Design is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Except for news report text, translation and other text is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. David Alexander.

Five-year Whitehall reunion party for 2004 Christmas ice storm. Dianne Garrett reports for Bexley Public Radio.

Five year ice storm reunion party.

Seated: Pat Baker and Marilyn Dowler.

Standing: Paul Baker, Councilman Chris Rodriguez, Carol Rodriguez, Dianne Garrett, Jim Dowler and Jim Lincke.



Jack Garrett and Scott Lincke setting up cots at the Whitehall senior center.


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Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.

Design is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text and photos are copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Dianne Garrett.

Bexley water, sewer & trash bills going up. John Matuszak reports for Bexley Public Radio

Bexley residents will see higher charges for water, sewer and trash collection services come Jan. 1, following votes by city council at its Dec. 15 meeting.

The 8.5 percent increase for water and the 6 percent hike in sewer rates are in response to increases from Columbus, which provides these services to Bexley, Service Director Bill Harvey explained.

Council voted 5-1 to pass along the increases to residents, with Mark Masser absent and Matt Lampke voting no.

Lampke explained that he is not sure that the sewer rate to be charged is enough to make sure the city's aging lines are being replaced at an adequate pace, and he would like to see more long-range planning on these kinds of issues.

Harvey responded that, if council did not pass the ordinance, he would not be able to charge the higher rate, leaving the city in a hole financially.

The Columbus increase is less than what it has been the last several years. Much of the need for rate hikes has come in response to EPA mandates for better treatment of sewage being released into waterways.

The jump in the cost for trash, recycling and yard waste collection resulted from the new, $1 million contract with Rumpke.

Residents age 59 and under will see quarterly bills increase to $73.50, from $60.50. This will put their annual trash bill at $294.

For the first time, residents age 60 to 65 will be eligible for the $18 annual discount offered by Rumpke. Their annual bill will be $246, an increase of $4.

Those 65 and over can receive the Rumpke discount along with the city discount of $50. Their annual bills will go from $$161 to $198.

Seniors do not automatically receive the rate reduction, but must inform the city of their eligibilty.

During the deliberations on the trash rates over the last several weeks, older residents pointed out that they are often on fixed incomes and the cost increase would create an added financial burden. They also noted that seniors usually generate less refuse than a family.

Harvey explained that resients 59 and under are paying more to provide the seniors with a lower rate.The charges to residents have to generate $1.1 million to cover the contract and additional costs.

There will be further adjustments to the rates the next two years, Harvey said, with younger residents probably charged a little less and seniors charged more to equalize the rates.

Rates could also fluctuate due to Rumpke's fuel adjustment surcharge and increases in tipping fees charged by the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO).

BEXLEY CELEBRATIONS AND CITY BUDGET

Council did some last-minute tinkering with its own budget for 2010 before approving the $9.9 million general fund spending plan. A late addition included $5,000 for the Bexley Celebrations Association, which puts on the Fourth of July festivities, Easter egg hunt, Harvest Festival and holiday tree lighting.

BCA President Anne Lewis came to council last week asking for the donation, the first time the organization has requested funding from the city. They are also seeking support from Capital University and other sources.

The city expects to spend $1.7 million more than it takes in for the year.

The 2009 budget was bailed out by estate tax collections of $4.2 million, well over the $1 million estimated.

In addition to the general fund spending, the city plans to spend $5.2 million for capital projects that include street and water and sewer line repairs, and equipment and vehicle replacements.

Harvey told council that $3 million of that figure will allow the city to borrow money to accellerate its street repairs. The money has to be in the budget for the service director to hire contractors.

To get the best price, now is the time to get bids, Harvey said. With all of the federal stimulus moey available, companies are expected to be busy and costs will only rise later in the year, he added.

The boiler at city hall needs to be replaced and wiring for the emergency generator needs to be repaired, Harvey said.

Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.

Design is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. John Matuszak.

Bexley library board names Rachel Rubin new director. John Matuszak reports for Bexley Public Radio.

The Bexley Library Board of Trustees has appointed Bexley resident Rachel Rubin as the new director of the institution. The decision was made at a meeting Dec. 17.

Rubin was one of about 30 applicants for the position, and was among the four interviewed. She is the manager of the Old Worthington Library and is a Ph.D. candidate at Simmons College in Boston.

She will start her new job Feb. 1 at a salary of $75,000 a year. She replaces longtime diector Robert Stafford, who retired in August. Susan Studebaker is serving as interim director.

Rubin, who has lived in Bexley three years with her two cats, said she is excited to have the opportunity to a serve a community that appreciates education and its library, evidenced by the 76 percent of voters who approved a library levy in November.

Like many of the books she will oversee, Rubin's story had an unexpected twist.

The Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, native said she never intended to enter the library field, even though her father works in the profession. But her interest in promoting literacy, particularly for children, led her to explore the discipline, and she found that she loved it.

After earning her master's degree from Kent State University, she went to work for the Worthington library, and left to work for Columbus Libraries before returning to manage the Old Worthington branch, where she has been for two years.

Several factors convinced her to seek the Bexley position.

"It's such a great facility. It's a wonderful building," she said of the Main Street landmark that opened in 1928. "There is such a potential to make it better."

She also lauded the knowledgeable staff. "There are so many things working together at once, it's a great opportunity."

With passage of the levy that offset some cuts in state funding, Rubin will head a library with more financial stability than many others, including Columbus, that have been forced to cut staff and hours.

Rubin wants to learn what people are looking for from their library before setting her own goals. But she said that improving services for children and young people, and keeping up with advances in technology, will be priorities.

During the campaign, the levy backers promised a teen lounge and wireless Internet technology as part of the planned improvements.

For her own fun reading, Rubin leans toward fiction. One of her favorite authors is Terry Pratchett, a humorous fantasy author of the "Discworld" series, along the lines of Douglas Adams, who wrote the "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" books.

She has been involved in martial arts and also enjoys exploring area restaurants. Bexley Pizza Plus and Main Street's new sushi restaurant are two local favorites.

Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.

Design is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. John Matuszak.

Laura Franks’ Dividend Note No. 17, December 18, 2009 on Bexley Public Radio.

Laura Franks’ Dividend Note No. 17, December 17, 2009 on Bexley Public Radio.

This is a report on fifteen companies that are increasing dividends. It is an occasional note on dividends by Laura Franks.

This informal collection marks dividend increases for mostly U.S. stocks.

Bexley Public Radio hopes this is a positive note amidst the usual uncertainty of Wall Street and financial markets.

Commentary and analysis is sometimes offered in this informal journal.

ABM Industries (NYSE: ABM) New York Dec. 16, 2009 announced that the Board of Directors has declared a first quarter cash dividend of $0.135 per common share, which is nearly a 4% increase, payable on February 1, 2010 to stockholders of record on January 7, 2010. This will be ABM’s 175th consecutive quarterly cash dividend.

BCE, Inc. (NYSE: BCE) Montreal, Canada, Dec. 17, 2009 announced a 7% increase in its annual common share dividend to $1.74 per share for 2010 as well as plans for the use of its year-end 2009 surplus cash balance that include a Normal Course Issuer Bid (NCIB) for up to $500 million and a $500 million special voluntary pension contribution.

"BCE is committed to delivering attractive ongoing returns to our shareholders and has done so through consistent and sustainable dividend increases and share buybacks since December 2008," said George Cope, President and CEO of BCE and Bell Canada. "Our accelerating business performance built on the Bell team's strong execution of our 5 Strategic Imperatives, substantial free cash flow generation and ample liquidity provide us with the financial flexibility to reward shareholders while maintaining both a strong balance sheet and robust capital investment in Bell's networks and service programs."
Today's announcement represents BCE's third increase to the annual common share dividend and the second share buyback since the termination of its proposed privatization agreement in December 2008. With this increase, BCE's annual common share dividend has increased by 19% since the fourth quarter of 2008.

The BCE annual common share dividend will increase by 7% to $1.74 per share, effective with BCE's Q1 2010 dividend payable on April 15, 2010 to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 15, 2010. This increase maintains BCE's payout ratio conservatively towards the lower end of its policy of 65% to 75% of Adjusted EPS for 2010.

The increased dividend is effective with the quarterly dividend payable April 15 to shareholders of record March 15.

BioMed Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE: BMR) San Diego, CA, Dec, 15, 2009 has declared a fourth quarter 2009 dividend of $0.14 per share of common stock, or $0.56 annualized. The dividend represents a 27.3% increase over the company's third quarter 2009 dividend of $0.11 per share. 

The dividend is payable on January 15, 2010 to stockholders of record at the close of business on December 31, 2009. The ex-dividend date is December 29, 2009.

Yield on the dividend is 3%.

CapLease, Inc. (NYSE: LSE) New York, Dec. 16, 2009 announced an increase in the Company’s quarterly dividend by 20% beginning with the fourth quarter of 2009 to $0.06 per share. That increase reflects the Company’s significant progress over the past 12 months in strengthening the balance sheet, including reducing debt by more than $125 million in 2009 and the early extension of the Wachovia term loan facility until April 2011. The Board of Directors will continue to reevaluate the Company’s dividend policy throughout the year as the Company implements its 2010 plans which are focused on increasing free cash flow and resuming portfolio growth on an opportunistic basis.

Consistent with the foregoing dividend policy, the Company announced today that its Board of Directors has declared a cash dividend of $0.06 per share of common stock and per limited partnership unit for the fourth quarter of 2009.

DTF Tax-Free Income Inc., (NYSE: DTF) Chicago, Dec. 14, 2009 determined that the monthly dividends for January and February 2010 will be in the amount of $0.06 per share. The $0.06 per share dividend rate represents an increase of $0.005 per share from the Fund's previous $0.055 monthly distribution rate. This increase in the dividend rate is intended to better align the Fund's monthly distribution with its current and projected earnings and is subject to re-evaluation as the interest rate and credit environment changes.

DTF Tax-Free Income Inc. is a diversified, closed-end investment company. The Fund's investment objective is current income exempt from regular federal income tax consistent with preservation of capital. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in a diversified portfolio of investment-grade tax-exempt obligations. The Fund's investment adviser is Duff & Phelps Investment Management Co.

Flaherty & Crumrine Preferred Income Fund Incorporated (NYSE:PFD) Pasadena, CA, Dec. 15, 2009 The monthly dividend rate for PFD has been increased by approximately 14.3% to USD0.072 per share, equating to an annual dividend of USD0.864 per share. The dividend will be paid on 31 December 2009 to holders of record of the fund's common stock on 23 December 2009. The expected ex-dividend date is 21 December 2009.

Flaherty & Crumrine Preferred Income Opportunity Fund Incorporated (NYSE:PFO) Pasadena, CA, Dec. 15, 2009. The new monthly dividend rate for PFO will be USD0.0575 per share, an increase of approximately 15% and equating to an annual dividend of USD0.690 per share. The dividend will be paid on 31 December 2009 to holders of record of the fund's common stock on 23 December 2009. The expected ex-dividend date is 21 December 2009.

First Financial Corporation (NASDAQ: THFF) Terre Haute, IN, Dec. 16, 2009 declared a semi-annual dividend of 45 cents per share payable on January 4, 2010, to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 28, 2009. Today's declaration brings the total dividend declared for 2009 to 90 cents per share, a 1.1% increase from 2008.

"We have been pleased to reward our shareholders for their support and confidence with increased dividends for 21 consecutive years," said Donald E. Smith, Chairman.

"In 2009 First Financial Bank marked its 175th year of service," he said. "Two other notable milestones in 2009 included the acquisition of the First National Bank of Danville in Vermillion County, Illinois and the opening of our new Sycamore Terrace banking center on the east side of Terre Haute. At a time when the nation's economy continues to struggle, these achievements demonstrate the strength of our company."

First Financial Corporation is the holding company for First Financial Bank N.A., with 54 banking centers in western Indiana and eastern Illinois; The Morris Plan Company of Terre Haute; and Forrest Sherer Inc., a full-service insurance agency.

General Mills (NYSE: GIS) Minneapolis, MN Dec. 14, 2009 announced an increase the company’s quarterly dividend rate to 49 cents per share, effective for the dividend to be paid on Feb. 1, 2010. The dividend will be payable to shareholders of record on Jan. 11, 2010.

The rate increase means the food manufacturer’s common sharholders will receive dividends of $1.92 per share for the present 2010 fiscal year, up from $1.72 in fiscal 2009.

General Mills previously increased its quarterly payment to 47 cents per share. That change was effective for its August 2009 payment.

General Mills and its predecessor firm have paid shareholder dividends without interruption or reduction for 111 years.
The company’s stock was down 13 cents per share, or 0.19 percent, to $68.93 at the close of trading Monday.

Hatteras Financial Corp. (NYSE: HTS) Winston Salem, NC Dec. 15, 2009 declared a quarterly dividend of $1.20 per common share for the fourth quarter of 2009. The dividend will be paid on January 22, 2010, to stockholders of record on December 28, 2009, with an ex-dividend date of December 23, 2009. 

"We are pleased to announce our fourth consecutive dividend increase this year," said Michael R. Hough, Chief Executive Officer of Hatteras. "It continues to be a strong operating environment for the company and we're excited by the prospects for 2010. The portfolio is conservatively positioned and we will continue to adjust the asset and liability mix as we progress through this cycle."

Iberdrola (OTC: IBDRY) Bilbao, Spain Dec. 16, 2009 yesterday approved a 5% increase in overall amount for the ordinary dividend this year against the spread last year. Iberdrola will pay 0.143 euros gross per title on account of profit for the year 2009, making the shareholder remuneration is in line with 2008. The electric company will also further the payment of such compensation to December 30. This measure seeks to avoid increased tax rates on capital income approved by the Spanish government and will enter into force on January 1, 2010.

Pfizer Inc.(NYSE: PFE) New York, Dec 18, 2009 declared an 18-cent first-quarter 2010 dividend on the company's common stock, payable March 2, 2010, to shareholders of record at the close of business on February 5, 2010.

The company noted that it increased the dividend by 12.5 percent, to 18 cents from 16 cents per share.

"The board has determined that a measured dividend increase can be supported at this time," said Jeffrey Kindler, Pfizer Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "This increase is a testament to our commitment to enhance shareholder value and our confidence in our business and our ability to rapidly integrate Wyeth and realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisition.

While the dividend level remains a decision of the board and will continue to be evaluated in the context of future business performance, we currently believe that we can support future annual dividend increases, barring significant unforeseen events."

The first-quarter 2010 cash dividend will be the 285th consecutive quarterly dividend paid by Pfizer.

Realty Income Corporation (NYSE:O) Escondido, CA announced that its Board of Directors has declared an increase in the Company’s common stock monthly cash dividend to $0.143 per share from $0.1426875 per share. The dividend is payable on January 15, 2010 to shareholders of record as of January 4, 2010. This is the 49th consecutive quarterly increase and the 56th dividend increase since Realty Income went public in 1994. The new monthly dividend amount represents an annualized dividend amount of $1.716 per share as compared to the previous annualized dividend amount of $1.71225 per share. The Company continues its long-term policy of declaring and paying dividends on a monthly, rather than on a quarterly, basis.

Tom A. Lewis, Chief Executive Officer of Realty Income commented, “We are pleased that, despite challenging economic conditions, our operations allow us to once again increase the amount of the dividend we pay to our shareholders. With the payment of the January dividend we will have made 474 consecutive monthly dividend payments.“

Realty Income, The Monthly Dividend Company®, is a New York Stock Exchange real estate company dedicated to providing shareholders with dependable monthly income. To date the Company has declared 474 consecutive common stock monthly dividends throughout its 40-year operating history and increased the dividend 56 times since Realty Income’s listing on the New York Stock Exchange in 1994. The monthly dividend is supported by the cash flow from over 2,300 retail properties owned under long-term lease agreements with leading regional and national retail chains. The Company is a buyer of net-leased retail properties nationwide.

Urstadt Biddle Properties Inc. (NYSE: UBA and UBP) Greenwich, CT, Dec. 17, 2009 announced an increase in the quarterly dividends on the Company’s Class A Common Stock and Common Stock. The dividends were declared in the amounts of $0.2425 for each share of Class A Common Stock and $0.2200 for each share of Common Stock. The dividends are payable January 22, 2010 to stockholders of record on January 8, 2010. The new dividend rates represent annualized increases of $0.01 per share for both the Class A Common shares and Common shares. The dividends declared represent the 160th consecutive quarterly dividend on common shares declared since the Company began operating in 1969 and the sixteenth consecutive annual increase in the dividend rates.

The Directors of UBP also declared the regular quarterly dividends on the Company’s Series C Preferred Stock, Series D Preferred Stock and Series E Preferred Stock. The dividends were declared in the amount of $2.125 for each share of Series C Preferred Stock, $0.46875 for each share of Series D Preferred Stock and $0.53125 for each share of Series E Preferred Stock. The dividends are payable January 29, 2010 to stockholders of record on January 15, 2010.

UBP is a self-administered equity real estate investment trust providing investors with a means of participating in ownership of income-producing properties and investment liquidity. UBP owns or has an interest in 46 properties containing 3.9 million square feet of space. UBP’s core properties consist principally of community shopping centers located in the northeast with a concentration in Fairfield County, Connecticut, Bergen County, New Jersey and Westchester and Putnam Counties, New York.

Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE: WM) Houston, TX Dec. 17, 2009 approved an increase in the quarterly dividend from $0.29 to $0.315 or 8.6%.

The company has increased its quarterly dividend for six consecutive years.

Waste Management CEO David P. Steiner said, "This announcement reflects our continued commitment to returning cash to our shareholders. Waste Management continues to produce consistent and strong cash flows, as evidenced by the dividend increase. The Board of Directors and management remain focused on being prudent and disciplined stewards of the Company's capital."

Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
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Design is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Laura Franks.

Lifecare Alliance flu shot program.

After encountering a shortage of flu shot vaccine earlier in the flu season, Lifecare Alliance has resumed its program of flu shots.

Vaccines for both the H1N1 flu and the usual seasonal flu are available.

Michelle Jones of Lifecare Alliance reported that flu shots will be available from 10:00 a,m, until 2:00 p.m. on Friday December 18. The vaccine shots will be administered at the1699 W. Mound St. Lifecare Alliance facility.

There is a $15.00 administrative fee for the H1N1 vaccine and a $25.00 administrative fee for the regular seasonal flu shot.

Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.

Design is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Editorial Collective and WCRX-LP Editorial Collective pursuant to editorial cooperative agreement.

Bexley library board set to name new director. Report by John Matuszak for Bexley Public Radio.

The Bexley Library Board of Trustees is expected to appoint the new director of the institution at a meeting to be held Dec. 17.

The name of the individual is not being released until the official announcement is made, according to Susan Studebaker, the library's interim director.

The director is a Bexley resident with previous experience running a library.

Studebaker has been serving as interim director since the retirement of longtime director Robert Stafford in August. During her brief tenure, Studebaker worked with the trustees and a levy campaign committee to pass a tax issue that offsets some of the cuts in state funding.

The new director will take over a library on better financial footing due to the additional local tax money. Along with maintaining current staffing and hours, the library will be able to bolster its new materials purchases, add a teen lounge and offer wireless Internet access, among other improvements.

Bexley Public Radio Foundation broadcasting as
WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM, Local Power Radio
2700 E. Main St., Suite 208
Columbus, OH 43209
Voice (614) 235 2929
Fax (614) 235 3008
Email wcrxlp@yahoo.com
Blog http://agentofcurrency.blogspot.com

Bexley Public Radio Foundation is exempt from federal taxes under IRC Section 501(c)(3). Donations are deductible from federal income taxes for individuals who itemize. Checks may identify the payee as Bexley Public Radio Foundation or WCRX-LP, 102.1 FM.

Design is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Bexley Public Radio Foundation. Text is copyright 2009. All rights reserved. John Matuszak.