LIBERTY TWP. - The Lakota Schools will get about $5.7 million over the next 30 years because of a change in a tax-incentive district agreement.

Earlier this month, West Chester Township trustees modified a tax increment financing district for the Union Centre development so that, beginning in 2006, Lakota will get about $190,000 annually for 30 years, beginning in 2006.

"West Chester technically didn't have to do anything,'' said Lakota treasurer Alan Hutchinson.The original 1990 agreement predates a 1994 state law that required schools to get part of the taxes being deferred to improvements.

The new agreement gives Lakota funds from 175 acres not yet developed along Union Centre Boulevard, West Chester Road and Muhlhauser Road.

Students pitch in

DEERFIELD TWP. - The entrance to Kings Junior High School is once again landscaped, thanks to the efforts of several seventh-graders.

The students took on the project after the entrance area was excavated and refilled with non-contaminated dirt as part of the cleanup of the junior/senior high school complex after lead was discovered there 10 months ago.

"It looks nicer than before,'' said Kings Junior High Principal Jim Acton. "It was a psychological boost to all of us and a compliment to the kids.''

The school's Team 2 seventh-graders, members of the National Junior Honor Society and Student Council, did the work as an Earth Day-related project under the direction of science teacher Vonda Fruhwirth. Several businesses, teachers and community members donated materials and money for the project.

Festival returns

MIDDLETOWN - After a one-year absence, the All America fund-raiser festival is returning - but at a new location with additional sponsors.

Sponsored by the Middletown High School Athletic Boosters and Musical Arts Association, the three-day festival which opens at 5 p.m. Friday is moving to Smith Park, 500 Tytus Road.

Opening ceremonies will include a 6:30 p.m. hot air balloon liftoff.

The festival runs from noon to midnight Saturday and 5 p.m. to midnight Sunday. There will be entertainment all weekend.

Highlights include a pig roast from 6-8 p.m. Saturday; a free Rozzi fireworks show at 10 p.m. Sunday. There will be craft booths, gaming tables, rides, children's games and a baby photo contest.

Physicals for $15

SPRINGBORO - Athletes and marching band students at Springboro High School may go to SureCare Medical Center for a low-cost physical that will benefit the school.

The school's annual physical day is set for July 18 from 1-4 p.m., at the center, 360 W. Central Ave. The cost is $15. Checks should be made out to the Springboro Athletic Boosters.

To schedule an appointment or get additional information, contact the high school athletic department, 937-748-3950.

Elda principal leaving

ROSS TWP. - Elda Elementary School Principal Shirley Curtis is leaving at the end of the month.

After working in Ross the past two years, she has accepted a position as principal of Ayer Elementary School in Anderson Township.

"It's a wonderful community. I have truly enjoyed my time here,'' said Curtis, who grew up on a 185-acre dairy farm in the Ross district.

A replacement has not been named.

Sue Kiesewetter

E-mail items to suek@infionline.net or fax to 755-4150.