Maupin family thanks community

UNION TWP. - The family of Pfc. Keith Matthew Maupin, the 20-year-old Glen Este High School graduate who has been held hostage by Iraqi insurgents since April 9, released a statement Thursday thanking the community for its support.

An excerpt: "The Yellow Ribbon campaign for our soldiers has been truly amazing. Please continue to keep the yellow ribbons flying and candles lit to light their way home. A special thanks to the many people who have brought meals, provided religious support, established Web sites and for the many campaigns and vigils throughout the community and country. ...

"We continue to pray daily for Matt's safe return and the safe return of all soldiers to their loved ones. Our faith will never diminish and we ask that you keep all soldiers in your prayers and wish them a safe and speedy return. Godspeed."

Workshops beat cicada fears

Are you really, truly, seriously totally bugged out by the cicadas? Don't despair. The Mental Health Association of the Cincinnati Area will offer two free "Cicada Phobia Workshops" to suggest ways for managing fears during the cicada season. The workshops will be conducted by clinical psychologist Karl Jackson of Core Behavioral Health Centers at 5:30 p.m. Monday and May 24 in the Geier Room, fourth floor, Community Chest Building, 2400 Reading Road. Information: (513) 287-8542.

TRAFFIC WATCH

Fifth Street from Vine to Walnut streets downtown will be closed from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday for the annual African-American Heritage Celebration.