MIAMI TOWNSHIP - For the next year, the Miami Township Police Department in Clermont County will continue to target underage drinkers through its "Cops in Shops" program.

The program, in its fourth year, recently received a $31,060 grant from the Ohio Department of Public Safety. In cooperation with local vendors, Miami Township police officers pose as stock and sales clerks to catch people under 21 buying alcohol or adults who buy alcohol for minors.

"It gives us an opportunity to use yet another tactic to protect the community by preventing young people from buying alcohol," said Miami Township Police Chief Steven Bailey.

The timing of the enforcement is random, Bailey said, but graduation nights and prom season will get special attention.

Where to dump tree in Clermont's Union Twp.

UNION TWP. - Residents of this Clermont County community can bring Christmas trees to the Union Township Hall, 4312 Glen Este-Withamsville Road, today through Wednesday. Hours for drop-off are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, call the township's service department, 753-2221.

Library circulated 2 million items in '03

HAMILTON - The Lane Public Library had a record-breaking year.

More than 2 million items were checked out systemwide at Hamilton, Oxford and Fairfield branches, as well as the bookmobile.

The Fairfield location, which opened in September 2001, had more than a million items checked out alone.

"People checked out books, but also books on tape, videos and DVDs," said library spokeswoman Carrie Hyatt.

More than 116,000 people hold Lane Library cards.

Cycle riders donate to Colerain police

COLERAIN TWP. - The Good Timers Freedom Riders Association donated $1,500 to the police department here during the December trustees meeting.

After their annual benefit motorcycle ride through the region, on Sept. 28, the motorcycle association makes donations to police and fire departments.

This year's ride ended at Colerain Park, where a replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall was being displayed.

Childbirth classes for prospective parents

HAMILTON - The Fort Hamilton Hospital Center for Health and Wellness is offering a prepared childbirth class.

The four-week course runs from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays starting Jan. 6.

Participants will discuss labor, delivery, hospital routines, mother and baby care and parenting skills.

Pillows and a blanket will be needed for relaxation exercises.

Classes will be held at the wellness center inside the East Butler County Family YMCA on Morris Road in Fairfield Township.

The cost is $55 for the childbirth class and $75 for the childbirth, Save-A-Baby, and breastfeeding series.

For more information, call 856-9355.