This Thanksgiving, Catnip & Carrots Animal Bunch of Monroe is urging residents to remember the animals, as well as the people, who have been adversely affected by financial hardship.
With surging unemployment, home foreclosures and the downward economy, local food pantries are expecting an increase in requests during this holiday season. As a result, the Butler County animal shelter and local rescue organizations are also dealing with an influx of abandoned animals because their owners can no longer afford to keep them.
To assist during this crisis, C&C is sponsoring a Food Drive from November 7th - 22nd, and requesting donations of non-perishable and unopened human and pet foods, personal care items and new, unopened pet toys or supplies.
The Monroe Optimist Club will again present Christmas on the Plaza downtown. This year's festival will take place on Saturday, November 21 from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Space is available for food and craft booths. All crafts must be handmade by the seller (unless prior approval by the committee) and of high quality. All raffles must have prior approval of the committee. Booths must be handicapped accessible for visitors. All applications must be received by November 15th and will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. To reserve booth space, please send an email to gentryca@bhg.org for an application. If you do not have computer access, you may phone 513-850-1954. Please leave a brief message if you don't get an answer.
The Monroe Historical Society is sponsoring a day of old-fashioned baseball, fun and activities for all ages. The 1869 Red Stockings, based in Cincinnati, will be playing a Monroe team coached by Councilman Tracy Shell. The game will be played using 1869 rules (baseball rules have evolved a quite a bit over time). Period uniforms have been provided for the Golden Lads by Mark Bursley of the Red Onion Cafe.
The festivities begin at 11:00 a.m. The log cabin will be open for visitors, and the Red Onion will be serving baseball fare (popcorn, peanuts, pulled pork sandwiches, hotdogs, brats and salt-water taffy). Catnip & Carrots Animal Bunch will also be selling frozen candy bars to benefit the Lending Library.
The Monroe Police Department will conduct several free bike rodeos throughout the area to help educate the community about bicycle safety. Officer Kahny will discuss ways to stay safe while riding, and participants will have an opportunity to try out their skills on a mini obstacle course.
For more information, please contact Officer Brett Kahny with the Monroe Police Department at 539-9234.
Bike Rodeos will be held in the following locations:
Monroe's "Light Up the Sky" Fourth of July Festival will end in a bang with fireworks displays on July 4th at Monroe Community Park.
Fireworks will begin at dark, with gates opening at noon on Saturday. Events are planned for the whole day, including a parade, rides and games for the kids. The schedule for the 4th of July events and games is listed below. A schedule and more information is available on page 12.
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (CSC) returns to the Community Park this summer with their performance of Romeo and Juliet. The production will be directed by CSC Artistic Associate Christopher Guthrie in a very contemporary urban setting using Shakespeare's original text.
Last year's Midsummer Night's Dream was a hit with even the youngest audience members. CSC presents Shakespeare in a way that is fun and exciting for those new to Shakespeare as well as seasoned fans. Romeo and Juliet's story of teenage romance and explosive family feuds is perfect for an outdoor setting and a great way for the whole family to enjoy Shakespeare together.
The Red Stockings Baseball Team (of 1869) will be coming to Monroe to take on the Monroe's Golden Lads as part of Log Cabin Days in the Park on August 8 at 1:00.
Players are still needed for Monroe's team. If you are interested in playing, please call Tracy Shell (email) at 600-0366 or Gene Williams at 539-9581 (email) to sign up. More information about the Red Stockings at www.1869reds.com.
Monroe's Community Garage Sale will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2009 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and on Sunday, June 7, 2009 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Although it is not necessary to register, sellers are encouraged to stop by the front desk at the City Building to sign up for the sale. A map will be available to the public showing your address and up to three items at your sale. Blue and yellow balloons will also be provided to help buyers identify your sale.
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (CSC) returns to the Community Park with Romeo and Juliet at 7:00 p.m. CSC presents the classic story in a high-energy setting that keeps both children and adults engaged.
The parks will be a busy place for families this summer with movies, theater, and a vintage baseball game.
First up is a movie scheduled for Friday, June 19th. Madagascar II - Escape to Africa will begin at dusk. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy the show!
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (CSC) returns to the Community Park on July 24th, with Romeo and Juliet at 7:00 p.m. CSC presents the classic story in a high-energy setting that keeps both children and adults engaged.
On August 8th, the Cincinnati Redstockings vintage baseball team will take on players from Monroe. A full day is planned including games and a movie at dusk. The Monroe team is forming now. If you would like to play, details on joining the team are on page 8.
