WAYNESVILLE — Considering how much Warren County has grown in 25 years, I conclude we must have been transported to another planet.

        Development is breaking out all over as rural townships strain to accommodate new people with expectations.

        I wonder: After they buy houses, do newcomers encounter a moment of epiphany when they realize things are done a little differently here?

        Consider “Larry Weller's Resolutions,” a list of recommendations by the former Waynesville council member and published this week in Mayor Lawson's Calendar.

        His piece is accompanied by “Community Commentary,” by the officers of the Wayne Township Residents Association.

        Among 10 requests, Mr. Weller asks the township trustees to:

        • Purchase a tape recorder for the Wayne Township clerk.

        • Prepare an agenda.

        • Issue press releases to inform the public.

        • Cooperate with all local governments to avoid duplication of programs and services.

        The association's officers — David D. Nuscher, president; Edwin Schultz, vice president; and Jerry Fenlon, secretary-treasurer — aren't sympathetic with the township, either.

        They wrote: “The last time the trustees made a decision based on their network of supporters, Wayne Township almost had another gravel-pit mining operation in our quaint community. Fortunately, citizens called for a referendum vote.”

        The officers are interested in a joint township-village building, but the township is considering its own new headquarters and the village is planning one, too.

        “Township land is available right next to the village's future home and many opportunities would be available to share ...” the officers wrote.

        But then, what would growth be without an argument?

       BATAVIA — If you've been wanting to take a brisk walk, here's your chance.

        Clermont County park naturalists will conduct walks through local parks.

        All ages are welcome, but each hike will take up to — whew — 90 minutes.

        They will begin at noon Jan. 26 at the Cincinnati Nature Center at Long Branch Farm; 1 p.m. Feb. 23 at East Fork State Park's Mountain Bike Trail; and at 3 p.m. March 9 at Chilo Lock No. 34 Park at the Crooked Run Nature Preserve.

        Reservations: 876-9013.

        COLERAIN TOWNSHIP — The Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve will host the “Winged Wonders in Wood” from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Jan. 24-27.

        Talented wood carvers will display their work at the Ellenwood Nature Barn.

        The program is free but a valid Hamilton County Park District vehicle permit is needed to enter the preserve ($3 annual, $1 daily).

        Information: 521-PARK or www.greatparks.org.

        Randy McNutt's column runs on Saturday. Contact him at The Enquirer, 7700 Service Center Dr., West Chester, Ohio 45069. Telephone: 755-4158. Fax: 755-4150. E-mail: Rmcnutt@enquirer.com.

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