Area Red Cross in need of blood
From J-T staff reports:
The Union County Chapter of the American Red Cross has issued a request for more blood donations.
With the arrival of spring weather, blood donations tend to decline, yet
the demand for life-saving blood remains constant. That has certainly
been the case in central Ohio, raising concerns about the Red Cross'
ability to quickly respond to requests from local hospitals for additional blood products.
Within about a one-week period, 85 units of red blood cells, platelets
and plasma were needed to support four local trauma patients.
Since some of the products were "pooled" from several whole blood
donations, 121 donors were needed to support the immediate needs of these four patients.
Because the patients were trauma victims, the need for type O red blood
cells was critical - a trend the Red Cross said will continue throughout
the upcoming summer trauma season.
Bloodmobiles are scheduled Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the
Catholic Community Center on West Fifth Street and Saturday from 8 a.m.
to 1 p.m. at Jerome United Methodist Church.
All presenting donors will be entered into a raffle to win a $50 Meijer
gift card. The winner will be drawn from the sign-in sheets.
For additional information or to schedule an appointment, those
interested may call the local Red Cross office at 642-6651.

Local voters have decisions to make on state officials
From J-T staff reports:
Local voters will find a packed ballot of candidates who will guide the
state for the next four years.
Two individuals for both parties have filed for governor and lt. governor.
Democratic candidates include Ted Strickland of Lisbon and Lee Fisher of
Shaker Heights; and Bryan E. Flannery of Strongsville and Frank M. Stams
of Cuyahoga Falls. Republican candidates are Jim petro of Columbus and
Joy Padgett of Coshocton; and J. Kenneth Blackwell of Cincinnati and
Thomas A. Raga of Mason.
Attorney General candidates are Democrats Subodh Chandra of Cleveland
and Mark Dann of Youngstown and Republicans Tim Grendell of Chesterland
and Betty Montgomery of Perrysburg.
Uncontested candidates for Auditor are Democrat Barbara Skyes of Akron
and Republican Mary Taylor of Uniontown.
Secretary of State candidates are Democrat Jennifer L. Brunner of
Columbus and Republicans Jim Trakas of Independence and Greg Hartmann of Cincinnati.
Treasurer candidates are Democrats Hugh Quill of Dayton and Richard
Cordray of Grove City and Republicans Jennett B. Bradley of Columbus and
Sandra O'Brien of Rome.
U.S. Senator candidates are Democrats Merrill Samuel Keiser Jr. of
Fremont and Sherrod Brown of Avon and Republicans David R. Smith of
Mason, William G. Pierce of Maineville and Mike DeWine of Cedarville.
Two seats appear open for Justice of Supreme Court. Candidates for the
term commencing Jan. 1 are Democrats William Michael O'Neill of Chagrin
Falls and A. J. Wagner of Dayton and Republican Terrence O'Donnell of
Rocky River. Candidates for the term commencing Jan. 2 are Democrats
Peter M. Sikora of Cleveland and Ben Espy of Columbus and Republican
Robert R. Cupp of Lima.

U.C. Airport is home  to Civil Air Patrol
The Union County Airport is now home to the Civil Air Patrol.
The unit, known as the 234th Composit Squadron, is a branch of the Ohio
Wing of C.A.P. The C.A.P. is a non-profit organization and recognized by Congress as
the United States Air Force Auxiliary. Their three-fold mission is:
. Aerospace education for all interested parties regardless of age.
. Cadet programs for youth up to age 21 years.
. Emergency services such as air and ground search and rescue missions.
The C.A.P. squadron will have an informational display along with C.A.P.
aircraft used in conducting missions at the E.A.A. Air Show at the Union
County Airport on Saturday, May 5.
Interested parties may also call C.A.P. Major James Himes at (614) 563-0823.

Marysville council eyes cost of study
By RYAN HORNS
An update was provided on the East Fifth Street railroad crossing
closure at the Marysville City Council meeting Thursday night.
City engineer Phil Roush told council members that he has been working
with an engineering firm to conduct a traffic study, which would include
Delaware Avenue, Industrial Parkway, Coleman's Crossing and Fifth Street
from Route 33 to the Five Points intersection. Roush said the study
could feasibly begin May 1 and be complete by the end of July. It would
cost between $10,000 to $25,000.
"What would it take from council to get started," councilman Dan Fogt asked.
"Money," Mayor Tom Kruse said. "We would need an appropriation. We can't
get the contract unless funds are available."
Fogt said he had called PUCO about having a representative come to
Marysville and look at the East Fifth Street crossing. He had not heard
back about when a person would be coming. Resident Nicole Coy said she
saw and spoke with the PUCO representative, as he had come to look at
the crossing earlier this week.
Roush said engineers planning to study the East Fifth Street region will
also be drawing information from past studies on a 2000 citywide traffic
study, one conducted on Coleman's Crossing and one on the future City Gate project.
Coy wanted to know if the next meeting was set for council's Public
Service Committee to discuss the railroad crossing. She was told that a
meeting date had not been set yet.
Fogt asked if the price tag for the upcoming study was reasonable.
"I was surprised it was that low," Roush said.
"We'll let you know where we want to head with this," council president
John Gore said, referring to the appropriation legislation to pay for the study.
In other discussions, the first reading was held on a resolution to
approve the amended 9-1-1 final plan for Union County.
Kruse explained again that the resolution effectively combines the
Marysville city dispatching with the Union County Sheriff's Office
services. The plan has been met with unanimous approval by county
emergency responders. "It's really going to be a good thing," Kruse said.
The first reading was held on a resolution authorizing the mayor to
enter into a settlement agreement to resolve the case of Priscilla S.
Gallogly, vs. Kruse. Essentially the lawsuit centers on whether the city
agreed to extend city services to the Gallogly property.
After an executive session to discuss the details of the case, council
reconvened and waived second and third readings on the resolution. The
issue passed unanimously, allowing Kruse to offer a settlement to
Gallogly. After the meeting, Kruse said he could not discuss the details
of the settlement publicly. City law director Tim Aslaner said there is
a court hearing on the case scheduled for Wednesday.
 In other news:
. Council passed an ordinance to allow the city to spend $9,000 from the
General Fund for a strategic planning event. Details of the event have
not been discussed at any previous city council meetings, including
first reading when such details are normally explained. No date,
location or topics being addressed at the future event have been discussed.
. Councilman John Marshall summed up discussions held at the Public
Safety Committee meeting, held prior to council's meeting. He said the
group discussed a project called "Code Red" which would offer a phone
alert system in emergencies to the city of Marysville (and possibly the
entire county in the future.) Marshall also spoke of discussion on the
future relocation or satellite building for the Marysville Fire
Department. He said one proposal offered a site at Collins Avenue at
Route 4 on the Ohio Reformatory for Women facility. He said city
administrators and fire officials would begin meeting monthly on the topic.
. Kruse presented the Employee of the Quarter award to Marysville Fire
Department's fire prevention officer Lt. Keith Watson.
. An ordinance was passed to amend Section 931.06 System Capacity
Charges of the city-codified ordinances.
. City council held first reading on an ordinance to donate $15,000 for
the Union County Veteran's Remembrance Committee to construct a kiosk.
The building would offer educational materials to students visiting the
future Veteran's Memorial. "Six months ago it was just a maybe",
committee representative Rowland Seymour said about the memorial plans.
"Now it is a positive."

Fairbanks ready for Tuesday's levy attempt
By KARLYN BYERS
If "less is more," then the Fairbanks Board of Education believes it is
on the right track with a May 2 ballot issue.
The board responded to a narrow defeat of its combined 7-mill bond issue
and 0.25 percent income tax issue in November by listening to its
voters. Superintendent Jim Craycraft said what those voters said in a
community survey conducted shortly after the election was "build what
you need and take care of what you've got."
As a result, voters now are being asked to approve a 4.4-mill bond issue
and a five-year, 0.25 percent income tax on Tuesday's ballot. The bond
issue will fund a 500-capacity pre-kindergarten through fifth-grade
school to be built near the existing middle and high school building on Route 38.
 The bond issue will generate $11.5 million over the next 28 years. The
income tax will generate about $300,000 to $325,000 annually.
The school's design will look different than previously presented
because of its reduction in size and because of the elimination of an
expanded gymnasium, kitchen and "auditeria."
The income tax will pay for permanent improvements, including air
conditioning for the existing middle and high school building and
upgrading the gymnasium portion of the 90-year-old Milford Center
Elementary. Air conditioning the current middle/high school facility
ranked high on the community survey.
The elementary's gymnasium will remain in use, as will its playground
and ball diamonds. The school's academic wing will be demolished,
although demolition will not begin until a new elementary can be built,
in roughly three years. The new school will correct an overcrowding issue that is only likely to
get worse. Several housing developments are planned within the school
district, including Glacier West, Jerome Village, Autumn Ridge and
Boerger Road. All of them, according to Craycraft, are within 16 to 18
months of breaking ground. "Within the next six to 12 months things are going to get pretty
exciting around here," he said. District-wide building capacity is 824 pupils. The current enrollment is
approximately 950 pupils. "Hopefully (our voters) will go to the polls on Tuesday, and get this
elementary started," Craycraft said. Craycraft will utilize a successful strategy from the past to make
himself more accessible to the Fairbanks community. Beginning Saturday
and continuing through Monday, he said, he will stay in a camper at
Milford Center "in case anybody stops by with questions."

Hospital board debates property price
By CORINNE BIX
The Memorial Hospital of Union County Board of Directors learned at
Thursday's monthly meeting that the purchase of two properties from MPI
real estate will continue to move slowly given a $1 million disparity over price.
 Chip Hubbs, Memorial Hospital CEO, reported that the properties,
located at 388 Damascus Road and 660 London Ave., will continue to be
used as medical offices if they are purchased by the hospital. A
three-year old appraisal estimates a fair market value of $3.9 million.
A more recent appraisal shows a fair market value of $2.95 million.
Hubbs explained that given that the offices are physician owned it would
be non-compliant for a county hospital to pay more than fair market
value because it would look like an inducement to referral. The two
buildings also were found to need between $100,000 to 150,000 in capital improvements.
The hospital is currently consulting with legal counsel as to how to proceed.
"Our hope is to put this issue to rest," Hubbs said.
The board passed a resolution recommending that The Union County Board
of Commissioners sell property at 173 Professional Parkway to orthopedic
surgeon Mark Stover. The property has been appraised at $125,000
dollars. Stover would be responsible for the cost of the property in
addition to any related closing costs.
Hubbs updated the board that a possible blanket policy that would grant
indemnification for all hospital employees wouldn't be necessary
according to legal counsel. In February, Hubbs along with chief
operating officer Laurie Whittington and vice-president of nursing
services Jackie Havercamp were all granted indemnification specific to a
previously filed lawsuit. Indemnification would hold those employees,
who are acting on behalf of the hospital and within the appropriate
scope of their authority, harmless in the case of a hospital related
lawsuit. Legal counsel said that a general indemnification policy is not
needed as public hospital employees are already indemnified by the Ohio
Revised Code. It was suggested to revisit the policy on a case by case
basis if a situation presented itself.
Debbie Stubbs, health center director, gave a presentation updating the
board on the Health Risk Assessment program that was implemented earlier
this year. The initial health risk appraisal reports are complete and
out of 750 hospital-wide employees 400 participated in the voluntary
assessment. Stubbs explained that the goals of the program include
reducing the cost of health care benefits paid out by increasing
employee wellness, which therein increases productivity, reduces sick
time and overall allows for healthier happier employees who work smarter
and harder. Employees who participated in the assessment were given the
extra incentive of receiving a $10 savings per pay period for one year
on their health insurance. Non-insured hospital employees were given
gift certificates and entered into a drawing.
The next step of the program will be implementing the education plan.
Stubbs said that most programs show progress within three to five years
and the goal would be to have 70 percent of the employees deemed "low
risk" for health. Currently, of the employees who voluntarily
participated, 37 percent are considered low risk. Overall, the hospital
could ultimately save $800 per employee and $310,000 per year if
employees respond well to the program and begin to make significant
changes to their lifestyles.
Hubbs said a constitutional amendment would financially threaten
Memorial. The Tax Expenditure Limitation amendment will be on the
November ballot and would limit increases to expenditures by 3.5 percent
per year. He said the expenditure cap would limit hospital growth.
The board voted to approve the audited financial report. Hubbs said his
administration has been disappointed with the auditing firm and wants to
sever ties. Approval from the State Auditor is required for such an action.
The board adjourned into executive session to discuss the compensation
of an employee and to consider a complaint against an employee.
After returning the board passed a resolution authorizing an incentive
compensation lump sum payment to Hubbs. The lump sum amount was for
$9,817.50. The next board meeting will be May 25 at 8 p.m.
In other news, the board:
. Approved committee reports concerning building and grounds, quality
review, finance committee and joint conference.
. Approved a resolution to open a $1 million line of credit at National City Bank.
. Reviewed 2006 Board of Trustees Committee Appointments .
. Discussed a possible trip to include all board members, senior
management staff and elected medical doctors to a conference in 2007.
. Received 2005 Memorial Hospital of Union County annual report.

'Love Thy Neighbor' awards announced
 From J-T staff reports:
A 12-year-old newspaper carrier and 4-H advisor received this year's
Kiwanis' "Love Thy Neighbor" awards.
The Kiwanis Club of Marysville awarded their annual "Love Thy Neighbor"
awards on Sunday and Monday. The awards are given to highlight Random
Acts of Kindness week and recognize individuals in the community who
have made a difference in the lives of others.
Danny Sherman, a newspaper carrier for the Marysville Journal Tribune,
was nominated by customer Janet Heil.
"Danny always tells me 'I want you to have a great day!' and I just
can't help but have one after he says that," Heil said, adding that
Danny must bring sunshine whereever he goes because he always smiles and
brightens up her day. Mrs. Heil admitted that she doesn't get around the
best but Danny is very thoughtful in the placement of the newspaper and
will often bring it directly to her at the door.
Frank Greeneisen was honored posthumously. His daughter, Susan Hoover,
accepted the award on behalf of her family. Greeneisen was nominated by
Kathy Taylor McCormick who served in 4-H under Greeneisen.
McCormick recalled her project to take a market lamb to the fair. She
said he often visited the farm to check on her and her lamb, warning her
not to get attached. McCormick didn't want to disappoint her advisor so
she assured him that she wasn't doing so.  However, she was treating the
animal like a pet and even named the lamb, Ethel. When the fair finally
arrived, young Kathy remembered having so much fun until the day of the
sale when she realized she would have to part with her beloved lamb.
She recalled standing in the middle of the sale ring sobbing as the bids
were called out while Ethel nuzzled her face. Once the auctioneer yelled
sold, the young girl realized the lamb was no longer hers and headed out
of the show ring where she was greeted by Mr. Greeneisen.  He wrapped
his big arms around her and reminded her of his warning not to get too
attached.  However, he then proceeded to tell the young girl that he had
in fact bought the lamb and was donating it back to her. The little girl
was so happy she leapt into his arms and gave him a big kiss.
 McCormick continued that she learned how much kindness matters as a
10-year old girl, and how his random act of kindness left an impression
on her and has stayed in her thoughts her entire life.
The Kiwanis Club encourages everyone to be thoughtful in their actions
and strive to make a difference in the lives of others.
For more information, call Brown at 642-1751.

Dump truck rams house
One occupant is blasted out of chair into kitchen by impact of truck
By RYAN HORNS
A husband and wife got the scare of their lives this morning after a dump
truck crashed into their Logan County home, north of East Liberty.
Just after 8:10 a.m. a man driving a dump truck was headed south down County
Road 292 when he somehow lost control at the intersection. The truck
careened into an embankment at the adjacent cemetery, went across the
intersection, drove through the lawn and crashed through the front door of a
home at 9004 County Road 2 .
Perry Township Fire Department Lt. Greg Norris said a woman and her husband
were inside the house at the time. The husband was sitting in a chair in the
front room when the truck collided through the door and struck him. Norris
said the force shoved the husband into the kitchen at the rear of the house.
"It¹s a miracle of miracles that both of them are in pretty good shape,"
Norris said. "The wife walked away with no injuries."
He said it appeared that brakes on the truck may have locked which could
have sent the truck veering off to the left and into the house.
Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers on the scene reported that the crash
remains under investigation.
"The front door and the grill of the truck is in the kitchen," Norris said.
He said the husband was transported by MedFlight to Ohio State University
Hospital in Columbus.
Although not injured, the wife went along to OSU for support. Her daughter
stood outside the home hugging neighbors. She was glad that everyone was
going to be all right.
Norris said the driver of the dump truck didn¹t appear to be seriously
injured, and was transported by medics to an unreported hospital.
In the yard, neighbors of the family stood outside consoling relatives and
checking out the damage, as tow trucks called by emergency responders and
firefighters from several townships stood by. The truck rested halfway
inside the home and had ripped a tree in the front yard in two.
County Road 2 was closed to through traffic and officers directed traffic
headed south on County Road 292.
Fire departments from Perry, Allen, Bokescreek and Liberty townships
responded to the scene.

MR/DD renewal is only county-wide issue on ballot
The only county-wide matter appearing before voters during the May 2 primary
election is a levy request by the Union County Mental
Retardation/Developmental Disabilities Board.
MR/DD is seeking to renew a 3.8 mil operating levy for five years. The levy
would generate $3,753,000 annually. It is estimated to cost $95.02 for a $100,000 property.
Dover Township
Dover Township residents will be asked to renew a 3.5 mil  levy for fire
service. The four-year levy is expected to generate $122,000 and cost $106.92 for a $100,000 property.
Magnetic Springs
Voters living in Magnetic Springs are being asked to consider a 5-mil
replacement levy for five years. It would be used for current expenses. The
new levy would collect $11,000 as compared to the retiring levy that
collected $9,180. The replacement would cost a $100,000 property owner,
$153.12. This compares to $126.40 that was collected under the expiring levy.
County candidates
Republican incumbents are running uncontested in two open county races,
while no Democratic candidates filed.
Gary J. Lee, 17421 Waldo Road, is seeking re-election to the board of
commissioners and Mary H. Snider, 293 Residence Drive, is seeking another
term as auditor.
Democratic County Central Committee
No contested races appear. Candidates and their precinct are:
Joe Bell, Allen; Kathryn Hook, Richwood #1; Robert L. Redmon, Richwood #2;
John A. Hoskins, Claibourne #1; Barbara J. Matteson, Claibourne #2; Alfred
L. Short Jr., Darby #2; Bonnie Spriggs, Dover #1; James F. Moots III, Dover
#2; Donna M. Flach, Jackson; John W. Desjardins, Plain City; Mildred Pace,
Jerome #2; Norman M. Puntenney, Jerome #3; John E. Mercer, Jerome #5;
Richard Flynn, Leesburg; Steve Merriman, Liberty #1; Nathan A. McCoy,
Liberty #2; Michael Alan Stemkowski, Millcreek; Cheryl L. Robinson,
Marysville #1; John A. Long, Marysville #5; Steven C. Dunton, Marysville #6;
David R. Moots, Marysville #7; Kathryn Liggett, Marysville #10; Thomas W.
Russell, Marysville #11; John M. Eufinger, Marysville #12; Kathy Ann
Robinson, Marysville #14; Rose Anna Coleman, Paris North #1; Stephen Clark
Davisson, Paris North #2; William C. Steele, Taylor #1; Patrick C. Riggs,
Union #1; John P. Ryan, Union #2; and Richard S. Gillenwater, Washington.
No candidates filed for Darby #1 and #3; Jerome #1 and #4; Magnetic Springs;
Marysville #2, #3, #4, #8, #9, #13; Taylor #2; Milford Center; and York.
Republican County Central Committee
No contested races appear. Candidates and their precinct are:
S. Susan Irwin, Allen; Leanna Cereoli, Richwood #1; Georgeann Charles,
Richwood #2; Jeff Evans, Claibourne #1; John R. Bell, Claibourne #2; Roger
Nicol, Darby #1; Brian Wade, Darby #2; Walter M. Burns, Darby #3; Marvin C.
Gilbert, Dover #2; Belva M. Latham, Plain City; Bob Fry, Jerome #1; Jim
Mitchell, Jerome #2; John Woerner, Jerome #3; Kermit Morse III, Jerome #4;
Gary R. Conklin, Jerome #5; Malcolm Manville, Magnetic Springs; Max E.
Robinson, Leesburg; Donald G. Russell, Liberty #1; Bruce Tillman, Liberty
#2; Ernest Bumgarner, Millcreek; Theodore B. Byus, Marysville #1; John T.
Foster, Marysville #2; Carl Robert Coe, Marysville #3; Marjorie D.
Scheiderer, Marysville #4; Donald M. Howard, Marysville #5; James D.
Westfall, Marysville #6; Karen Westlake Haller, Marysville #7; Mary Ann
Hyland, Marysville #8; William Rutherford, Marysville #9; Robert William
Parrott, Marysville #10; Nanciann Sawyer, Marysville #12; John E. Marshall,
Marysville #13; Joseph M. altizer, Marysville #14; Wanda L. Gwilliams, Paris
North #1; Gary J. Lee, Paris North #2; Dean E. Cook, Taylor #1; James W.
Shaw, Taylor #2; L. Jean Thiergartner, Milford Center; Mary Lou Ryan, Union
#1; William F. Gorton, Union #2; Wayne Howard Rickard, Washington; and
Dallas W. Dowell Jr., York. No candidates filed for Dover #1, Jackson and Marysville #11.
District candidates
Democrat Mary J. Kilroy and Republican Deborah Pryce are running uncontested
for a seat as the 15th District Representative to Congress.
No democrats filed for the third district Ohio Court of Appeals Judge.
Republican candidates are Leslie K. Batte of Lima, Vern Preston of Findlay
and John R. Williamowski of Lima.
State Central Committeeman running for the 26th district include Republican
Adam Greenslade of Green Springs; and Democrats Randy Weston of Morral and
David Moots of Marysville.
State Central Committeewoman candidates are Republican Betty Jo Sherman of
Elmore and Democract Barbara Tuckerman of Fremont.
Seeking the 83rd District State Representative post are Republicans Anthony
E. Core of Rushsylvania and Michael J. King of Caledonia, as well as
Democrat Shawn Allen of Belle Center.

Preliminary cause of deaths released
Coroner says twins died of brain swelling
By RYAN HORNS
When answers weren't readily available after twin children died unexpectedly
this month from unknown health complications, rumors soon took the place of fact.
Tuesday afternoon, Union County Coroner Dr. David Applegate discounted the
hearsay surrounding the recent deaths of Anthony "A.J." and Joshua Legge, 3,
by providing an update on the ongoing autopsy and investigation.
Applegate said that on April 18, twin boys, Anthony "A.J." and Joshua Legge,
underwent tonsillectomies at Memorial Hospital of Union County.
"The surgery and post-operative course were uneventful until A.J. began to
have breathing difficulties around 1:15 a.m. on April 19. Despite full
resuscitative efforts, A.J. died in the emergency department," Applegate
said. "While his brother was in the ER, Joshua began to demonstrate
breathing irregularities and was transported to the emergency department. He
was resuscitated and eventually transferred to Children's Hospital in
Columbus by Life Flight. Despite heroic efforts, he died a couple days later."
A.J. underwent an autopsy under Applegate's authority and Joshua underwent
autopsy under the authority of the Franklin County Coroner Dr. Brad Lewis.
"The immediate cause of death for both boys was swelling of the brain
(cerebral edema)," Applegate said. "Preliminary findings have found the
bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes in both twins' blood. The cause of the
swelling is under investigation but may be related to this bacterium."
The University of Florida medical Web site www.medinfo.ufl.edu explains that
Streptococcus pyogenes has been a significant pathogen throughout history,
but the problems it causes have differed at different times. In the 1850s,
it was the cause of acute childbed fever or puerpural fever, an infection of
the uterus of postpartum women. Early in the 20th century is was the cause
of Scarlet Fever, a disease that killed or debilitated many young children.
For awhile it was known primarily as the cause of "strep throat."
Applegate said he has heard the rumors, which have included speculation that
the twins died from allergic reactions to codeine. He said he was even
driving through a local fast food drive-thru lane and was asked by an
employee to donate money to a fund for the twins who "died from allergic reactions."
He agreed it was time to dispel the misinformation.
"Autopsy did not show any evidence of allergic reactions (including
codeine), surgical complications, or foul play." Applegate said.
"³Investigations by the Union County Coroner¹s Office in cooperation with the
Marysville Police Department and the Franklin County Coroner's Office remain
active into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Anthony and Joshua Legge."
Applegate admitted that it can be frustrating waiting for autopsy results to
be completed in the laboratory. He continues to wait for results from other
recent deaths in the community.
He said that laboratory analysts are studying the infection process that led
to the deaths and have taken DNA fingerprints of the bacteria, which may be
the cause. The hope is to find a link between the two deaths that can
pinpoint what specifically went wrong and caused the cerebral edemas.

Meeting will focus on road improvements
From J-T staff reports:
An open house to review draft concepts for the I-270/U.S. 33 Northwest
Freeway Study is scheduled for May 9 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Dublin
Recreation Center, 5600 Post Road, Dublin.
The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission has spearheaded a study that is
analyzing and developing long-term mobility solutions for the I-270 west
outerbelt area including U.S. 33 freeway west of I-270 to U.S. 42, states an
April newsletter. Recommendations call for widening both I-270 and U.S. 33, as well as the
possibility of new interchanges at Mitchell Dewitt Road in Union County at
U.S. 33 and Davidson Road at I-270 in Franklin County.
The study team also identified approximately 40 miles of new or widened
arterials that are important to reducing congestion and improving mobility in the study area.
Based on technical findings and public input, a study team completed the
analysis for the Existing and Future Conditions Report, Red Flag Summary
Report and Draft Purpose and Need Statement. All are available on the
project Web site at http://I270-US33.morpc.org.
The study is recommending that I-270 be widened to 12 lanes between U.S.
33/Route 161 and Sawmill Road. Two basic lanes and one auxiliary lane would
be added in each direction. The additional lanes would be built to the
inside and outside of the existing lanes.
U.S. 33 would be widened to a six-basic lane facility with auxiliary lanes
from the Post Road/Route 161 interchange to the I-270 interchange, thus
creating an eight-lane corridor. One new basic lane in each direction would
be built on the inside of the existing lanes; the auxiliary lane would be
built to the outside of the existing pavement.
Between U.S. 42 and Post Road/Route 161 interchanges, U.S. 33 would be
designed to be a six-basic lane facility without auxiliary lanes. Expansion
of this segment will be to the inside of the existing lanes.
The study found that new interchanges at Mitchell Dewitt Road and U.S. 33
and/or Davidson Road and I-270 would provide operational and system benefits
without overloading the freeways or encouraging excessive local (short)
trips. The newsletter states that these early concepts are not meant to
imply that the new interchanges have been fully justified or that designs
for existing interchanges have been finalized.
An interchange at Scioto Darby Creek Road, however, increased short
trip-making with fewer overall benefits. The advisory committee and local
funding partners agreed to proceed with additional analysis of potential interchanges.

New middle school principal named
By KARLYN BYERS
Marion Grant Middle School Principal Kathy Lynn McKinniss was hired
Monday night as the new Marysville Middle School principal.
McKinniss will succeed current MMS principal Maryann Sweeney who will
retire at the end of the school year after 26 years as middle school principal.
Marysville board members voted 4-0 - board president Roy Fraker was out
of town on business - to offer McKinniss a two-year limited contract.
The action was taken at a meeting held at Creekview Intermediate School
after Monday's groundbreaking ceremony for Northwood Elementary, the
district's sixth elementary school.
A 27-year veteran middle school teacher, guidance counselor, assistant
principal, and principal, McKinniss also successfully managed the
consolidation of three Marion City middle school populations into one
building of 1,200 pupils and more than 70 staff members.
"We believe her expertise will be invaluable as we plan for growth in
our school district and prepare to build our second Marysville Middle
School," Marysville Superintendent Larry Zimmerman said in a press
release issued after McKinniss' hiring. "The most important aspects of
that transition will be fostering cooperation and teamwork, and Kathy
McKinniss will bring a proven track-record on both fronts to the table."
McKinniss is a native of Wooster. She graduated summa cum laude with a
bachelor of arts in history and social studies from Capital University
in 1978, and a master of education in guidance and counseling from
Bowling Green State University in 1982. She and her husband, Ted, are
the parents of three children. She was selected from 40 applicants. She will start Aug. 1, but she
plans to visit the school and meet with staff and pupils before school
adjourns for the summer.The board also talked briefly about the high school building project
with Andrew Maletz, vice president of Steed Hammond Paul architectural firm.
The project which will focus mainly on additions/renovations to the
front of Marysville High School, will take more than a year to complete.
It will be "a very complex project," said board vice president Bill
Hayes who presided over Monday's meeting.
Maletz said the second addition to the high school is going to mean "a
lot of careful maneuvering of students. It's going to be a challenge, but I think we're up to it."
He suggested a special meeting be held May 8 or 9 to discuss the district's construction projects.
In other action, the board:
.Invited members of the public to provide input to the board regarding
the re-employment of Ellen Traucht and Greg Casto after their
retirements. This is in accordance to requirements of the Ohio Revised Code 3307.353.
.Approved district volunteers and substitutes and home instructors.

Richwood Council looks at pool regulations
By CHAD WILLIAMSON
Richwood Council is looking to beef up the regulations regarding pools in the village.
Council president George Showalter said the village has stipulations in
the village codes that pools more than 18 inches deep must be fenced in.
If the resident's yard is not fenced in, the pool itself must be
enclosed and the entrance gate must be locked.
The problem, according to Showalter, is that the code does not clearly
define what a fence is - or, more specifically, what materials must be
used to construct it. Showalter said he has seen fences for pools
constructed of plastic, one of which was what is commonly known as a snow fence.
With the proliferation of store bought, medium depth swimming pools, and
the summer months coming, council members felt the it was time to
improve the wording of the code.
Some of the pools sell for as little as $50 and because owners do not
always drain them after use, there is a danger of unattended children
using them. The pools range in depth from 18 inches to four feet and
hold from 200 to 5,000 gallons of water. Nationally more then 30,000
such pools are sold each year, according to Consumer Reports.
The inflatable children's pools have drawn much media attention in
recent years because some perceive them as a safety hazard. In February,
Consumer Reports magazine called the pools "drowning hazards" and Good
Housekeeping has also printed articles about the potential dangers.
Donald Mays, senior director of product safety at Consumer Reports said
in a written statement "Through testing done at the CR labs, our
engineers and scientists have uncovered hidden safety problems under
foreseeable use conditions."
According to Consumer Reports, Consumer Product Safety Commission
statistics show that 250 children under age 5 drown in pools each year
and another 1,800 are injured.
Richwood Zoning Inspector Jim Dew said he had no problems telling
residents that certain types of materials were unacceptable for fence
construction, but council members felt it would better to craft the code
into exactly what it wanted.
Council member Jim Thompson, a former village zoning inspector, said he
brought the issue of vague wording of the fence requirements years ago.
He said at that time he asked council to rework the code so it was very specific.
Village solicitor Rick Roger said he would seek out wording of fencing
regulations for pools in other communities to help the village rework
its codes. Council members said the wording should be finalized at the
next meeting on May 8.
In other business, council:
.Heard the swearing in of new council member Von Beal, who fills the
seat vacated by Jim Ford.
.Voted 6-0 to adopt the revised plan for a unified county 9-1-1 system.
.Voted 6-0 to pay a bill from Bischoff and Associates for engineering work.
.Voted 6-0 to close South Franklin Street between Bomford and Ottawa
streets, from June 15-18 for the annual Springenfest celebration.
.Learned that the bids for the repaving of Norris and Wood streets came
in high. Engineer Ed Bischoff said he believed the village could
negotiate changes in the work to bring the cost in line with the $34,000 grant for the project.
.Agreed to allow the purchase of a backup lift station pump at a cost of $3,800.
.Learned from police chief Rick Asher that golf carts, or any motorized
vehicle operating on the village streets, should be licensed.
.Heard from Asher that the village's speed registering sign will be
placed in the area of George Street in the near future.
.Heard from Showalter that the park restrooms were vandalized again and
discussed the value of the video surveillance system that covers the facility.

Preparing for Marysville's next school
Groundbreaking held for Northwood Elementary
From J-T staff reports:
Digging bright, shiny shovels into a pile of fresh mulch, Marysville
School Board members, Superintendent Larry Zimmerman, representatives of
Steed Hammond Paul Inc. architectural firm and Ruscilli Construction
Co., and Eric Phillips, Union County Chamber of Commerce executive
director, broke ground for Marysville's sixth elementary school Monday evening.
The 550-capacity school building is scheduled to open in time for the
2007-2008 school year. It will be built on 15 acres of land donated to
the school district by Dominion Homes in February and is expected to
cost between $10 million and $11 million.
"We're quite fortunate and thankful to be part of the team again," said
Robert A. "Tony" Ruscilli Jr., as he presented board members and
Marysville Superintendent Larry Zimmerman with a plaque commemorating the occasion.
Seventh-graders Leeora Mohler, Natalie Turner and Chase Zimmerman also
participated in the ceremony, helping Larry Zimmerman dig additional
scoops of ground. The school, which will be built adjacent to Creekview
Intermediate School on Marysville's northern edge, will be called
Northwood Elementary. The name submitted by pupils on the Marysville
Middle School seventh grade "Red Team" was one of more than 200
suggested by pupils. "The Marysville School District is a terrific partner," Ruscilli said in
a press release. "We are quite fortunate to be a part of the team that
completed the addition to Creekview Intermediate School on time and on
budget. We look forward to the same success with Northwood Elementary School."
As the groundbreaking ceremony was coming to a close, Larry Zimmerman
invited all who attended to join in a group photo, including several
younger children who had ridden their bicycles over. More than 20 people joined in.

Wedding reception ends in stabbing
By RYAN HORNS
A father and son stabbed during a wedding reception in Raymond Saturday,
are expected to be released from medical care today.
The Union County Prosecutor's Office and the Union County Sheriff's
Office are investigating a double stabbing that ended with the arrest of
Eric D. Adams, 36, of 6535 Perry Pike Road in Plain City. He was
arraigned this morning on two counts of felonious assault. He reportedly
is claiming self-defense. The case remains under investigation and
further charges will be reviewed by a grand jury.
Victim Rick Diamond Sr., 45, of 21244 Liberty West Road, ate his
breakfast in his Ohio State University Hospital room this morning.
Hospital staff said he remains in fair condition and doctors were making
sure his condition is stable.
Over the phone from his room, Diamond said he was expected to be
released from care in the afternoon. He said his son and victim, Rick
Diamond Jr., 18, of the same address, had already been released from the
hospital and was recovering at home.
According to law enforcement, the stabbing took place at a wedding
reception being held at the Liberty Township Community Center at 21463
Main St. in Raymond. A 9-1-1 call was made about 4:14 p.m. reporting
that two men had been stabbed. Deputies from the Union County Sheriff's
Office and medical crews from Liberty and Allen Township fire
departments responded to the scene. The two victims were flown to the
Ohio State University Medical Center by Medflight and Care Flight. After
stabbing the Diamonds, Adams reportedly drove away from the community
hall and was picked up and arrested by deputies without incident.
Union County Sheriff's Chief Deputy Tom Morgan said he could not comment
further on the case because it remains under investigation.
Raymond resident Sheila Hines, said medical helicopters landed in her
front lawn to transport the Diamonds.
"I was trying to get my kids inside the house," Hines said. "They
watched through the windows."
Hines said there was apparently a fight inside the community hall which
started as relatives and guests were preparing for the bride and groom
to arrive. The wedding couple were driving from the Church of Christ on
Bearswamp Road to the reception at the township hall. As guests
prepared, Adams reportedly felt people weren't working fast enough.
"He was apparently upset because the cake wasn't being cut fast enough,"
Hines said. "He was just impatient."
Diamond's daughter, Jessica Diamond, 19, said Adams had allegedly been
making trouble all day, including at the wedding. Adams was generally
acting belligerent, but to her knowledge had not been drinking. She said
he has had trouble with the law in the past because of domestic violence.
Jessica explained that her sister, bride Jennifer Diamond, was trying to
get directions to the township hall, when Adams wanted someone to cut
the cake so he could leave early. She said Adams then grabbed her
8-year-old niece by the arm and began "yanking her to the car." That was
when her father got involved. She said Adams pulled out a 3-inch pocket
knife and stabbed her father in the shoulder. Her brother tried to stop
him and was also stabbed.
"If he hadn't have gotten involved," Jessica said about her brother,
"(Adams) probably would have stabbed (the niece) too."
Jessica said her brother was cut in the stomach, which slightly cut his
liver. The father was struck in the shoulder, among other areas. She
said her aunt tended to the two victims and tried to get the bleeding
under control. She said that medics indicated the aunt's help might have saved their lives.
Hines said that after stabbing the Diamonds, Adams ran from the township
hall and got into a yellow Mustang. Two people tried to get him out of
the vehicle, as he drove off down Route 347.
"He was doing donuts and then started backing up faster through the yard," Hines said.
At that time Liberty Township Fire Chief Lloyd Segner said that he was
driving nearby with his wife when he heard the 9-1-1 call come over the
emergency radio. "There was quite a crowd," he said, about the scene in front of the
township community center, "and they were tousling around in the yard."
Segner said he decided to follow Adams when he sped off.
"He drove for about two miles," he said, as other deputies joined the
chase. "Then he pulled over to the side of the road. I think he realized
that he was in trouble."
Meanwhile, Segner said, the victims were being taken care of by Liberty
Township medics for "multiple stab wounds."
"We want to thank the people who helped clean up afterwards," Jessica
said, "and that were there for the family."
Segner said it was a hectic night in the little town of Raymond that night.
"It was an interesting (medical) run," he said.

Push is on to bring TV show to Union County
Serendipity Stables is applicant for Extreme Makeover Home Edition
By CINDY BRAKE
Extreme Makeover Home Edition may be coming to Marysville, Ohio....
So begins a letter from Denise Dal Vera to Union County Commissioner Charles Hall.
Dal Vera of Cincinnati is spearheading an application campaign for the
national television program to help the Michele Davis family. Davis is
owner of Serendipity Stables near York Center. In 2002 the therapeutic
farm was hit by a tornado damaging her stable and home, killing two
horses and causing a financial hardship to keep the facility
operational, Dal Vera writes.
Dal Vera is the mother of a special needs child and acknowledges that
the odds are against the show selecting the Davis facility, which
provides children with animal therapy by the healing horses. She writes
that the national show receives thousands of applications weekly.
"I know it's a really long shot," Dal Vera said.
But she, and many others, believe Davis' story is something special and
her need is great. "She has so much to give these children," Dal Vera said.
And the letters of support that are part of the application agree.
A letter signed by 21 "friends of Michelle Davis" states "we think the
Davis family's story has all the elements you're looking for in a
'before and after' story. They're a small family of two... They work
hard running Serendipity Stables, a non-profit organization that
provides animal therapy to children with autism and disorders from all
over the country. During a tornado in 2002, they lost everything, as it tore their barn
and home to the ground. While the other horses ran, Adeline, a
5-year-old mare held 13 people near the only remaining wall of the barn
and in so doing, endured life-threatening injuries.
"She saved their lives so the town rallied to save hers. The children
from all over the country who have been helped by Adeline over the
years, sent dollar bills and letters to pay for the risky $10,000
surgery, and after being given only a 5 percent chance of survival she
still continues to recover today.
"Locals pitched in to build temporary housing on the 15 acres, but it's
not safe for the children, or a disabled horse long term.
"If the Davis' are fortunate enough to be chosen by you for a makeover,
they can get back a portion of what they have given to so many, not only
will this help the horses at Serendipity Stables, the show will bring
much needed attention and awareness to children with autism, an illness
that effects one in 166 children and their families in the U.S."
Donna Wilbers writes that her autistic son started seeing Michele and
her horses about six or seven years ago.
"We made the three-hour trip every month, and sometimes every two weeks,
because it was plain to see that something was happening to our
beautiful Sean every time he sat on one of her horses," Wilbers writes.
She explains that when her son started going to Serendipity Stables he
was "pretty much uncontrollable... After getting some treatments, he
became calm, stopped crying and was more focused, happier and less
confused... To people who have been living in a world of great stress,
sadness, guilt, hopelessness and depression, as were, Michele and her
horses are nothing less than a miracle. We always feel such peace after
a visit at Serendipity Stables. What a gift Michele and her horses are,
to people who need, and are searching for, hope and healing," Wilbers writes.
Tornado survivor Barbara Ries of Lombard, Ill., also submitted a letter
of support. She describes the 13 seconds when the tornado swept through
the Davis property and the horse, Sweet Adeline, "held us all in the
safe haven next to the founding wall. She was shredded, and remarkably
held her stance steady because God was with her, and she unquestionably
knew what to do... If not for this outstanding act of kindness, 11
others and myself would not be alive today..."
Letters of support have also been written and signed by Union County
elected officials including Sheriff Rocky Nelson, Engineer Steve Stolte,
Board of Commissioners Charles Hall, Gary Lee and Thomas McCarthy, as
well as the Union County Convention & Visitors Bureau.
The extensive application also includes photographs of children working
with horses, an application, tour footage of the home, press articles,
an independent documentary and information about animal therapy, autism
and a visitor support package along with a wish list.
The wish lists includes a wellness center for the children who receive
animal therapy, Dal Vera writes.
"Sadly the special needs children visiting, have no area to wait before
and after treatment. The children and families still come from all over
the country to spend time in therapy with the animals and see great
benefit consistently even in the sparse surroundings," Dal Vera writes.
Davis is a learning specialist with focus on the autistic and ADD/ADHD
child. She emphasizes that wellness occurs in nature, fresh air, pure
foods and animal connections via a unique natural program of digestive
tract rehabilitation, food/chemical exposure reprogramming, energy
balancing ... and interaction with the world renowned Serendipity
Stables, according to information on a Website about her workshops.
After being stricken with leukemia, Davis, who holds five doctorates in
Latin American culture and theater, turned to the natural modalities of
diet, prayer, mediation and miracles for her recovery, learning that
wellness occurs when the body takes in what it can use, and illness
occurs when it takes in what it can't use. She recovered and acquired
the healing arts of Native American Energy Balancing.

 Marysville to break ground on Northwood Elementary
Ruscilli Company will oversee construction of new school
From J-T staff reports:
A handful of ceremonial shovel scoops will officially kick-off construction
on Marysville's sixth elementary school Monday at 5 p.m.
Preparing for more record growth in the Marysville community,
representatives of Marysville Schools, architects Steed Hammond and Paul and
construction manager Ruscilli Construction Co. will break ground on the new
Northwood Elementary School at a small outdoor ceremony.
The new elementary, which will be built on about 15 acres of land donated to
Marysville Schools by Dominion Homes in February, is scheduled to open in
time for the 2007-08 school year. The
location is west of State Route 31 and adjacent to Creekview Intermediate
School on the northern edge of Marysville.
Northwood Elementary will have a capacity of 550 students. Marysville
students suggested more than 200 possible names for the new school. The
winning "Northwood" name was proposed by students on the Marysville Middle
School seventh grade red team, who will take part in the groundbreaking ceremony.
"The Marysville School District is a terrific partner," says Robert A.
"Tony" Ruscilli, Jr., managing principal and project executive of Ruscilli
Construction. "We are quite fortunate to be a part of the team that
completed the addition to Creekview Intermediate School on time and on
budget. We look forward to the same success with Northwood Elementary School."
Marysville Schools Superintendent Larry Zimmerman says Steed Hammond and
Paul and Ruscilli Construction both bring tremendous expertise to the table,
which was the key reason why the firms were selected to design and manage
the Northwood project. "Ruscilli Construction is a major player in the Columbus construction
market. Steed Hammond and Paul has designed hundreds of school buildings in
Ohio and the Midwest, including projects here in Marysville. We are grateful
for the time and attention they devote to helping us manage our growth and
address the unique needs of the students of our community," Zimmerman says.
The Northwood project is expected to cost between $10 million and $11
million. Zimmerman says Dominion Homes' land donation combined with
Marysville Schools' solid credit rating and careful planning helped cut the
cost of the project by hundreds of the thousands of dollars.
"I would be a very happy superintendent if this community stopped growing
and we didn't have to spend any more money on new schools," Zimmerman says.
"But as long as growth continues, we have to be prepared to educate our new
students, and that means making classroom space available. We deeply
appreciate all the support our community has offered in the form of passing
bond levies over the years to help pay for this growth."

Family wants to save MacIvor building
Bunsolds have submitted plans  to bank for move of historic medical office
By CINDY BRAKE
The John Bunsold family wants to save the former MacIvor Medical Cottage.
The problem is timing. After reading an article in the Marysville Journal-Tribune  two weeks ago,
the Bunsolds began working on the details to move the 21-foot structure
approximately 3.2 miles from Court Street to near his home on Boerger Road.
He admits it was a whim, but no one in his family called him crazy. In fact,
his mother, Lucile, has been one of his biggest advocates. He said she asks
daily how things are going. His wife, Sandy, and son, Cory, have also been
involved in working out the details.
The former medical office of Dr. Malcom MacIvor was purchased by Fifth Third
Bank earlier this year, and Ron Jones, senior real estate manager for the
bank, offered the historic building to anyone who wants to move it at their
own expense. The bank is planning to construct a drive-through facility and
add more parking on two contiguous properties.
Jones originally said the building must be moved by the end of April.
Bunsold is hoping for more time.
In the past two weeks, the Bunsolds, with the help of Karen Page, Liz Meeder
and local realtor Dale Corbin, have contacted the local building department
about what permits are needed, received an estimate from a Van Wert mover
and spoke to a local builder about constructing a foundation. Union Rural
Electric and Dayton Power and Light have been the first of four utilities to
respond with estimates on what it will cost to move power lines. Bunsold is
hoping the city will cooperate in moving two traffic lights on the projected
route from Court Street to Eighth Street, London Avenue, Route 38 and
Boerger Road. On Boerger Road alone there are eight power lines that must be
moved. He is estimating the move will cost between $30,000 and $40,000.
Right now, Bunsold said he is waiting for a statement from the bank so he
can finalize his contract with the mover.
White paint marks the spot in the quiet meadow bordered by trees where
Bunsold hopes to place the vintage building that has already been moved
twice. In fact, Bunsold said he remembers seeing it moved the second time.
Local historian Bob Parrott said the building dates back to the Civil War
and was home to a post master in the 1870s as well as the MacIvor medical
practice. The Bunsolds' motivation is personal.
Besides an appreciation for history, Bunsold said Dr. MacIvor cared for
three generations of his family. As the co-owner of Bunsold Plumbing and
Heating, he remembers working on the building as well as at the doctor¹s
personal home over the years. Then his wife, Sandy, had the opportunity to
get to know the MacIvors even better during a trip to the Outer Hebrides
Islands of Scotland where the doctor¹s family was originally from.
If Bunsold is able to acquire the building, he wants to set aside the lobby
area as a tribute to the MacIvor Family Practice. Dr. Malcolm¹s father,
Angus, originally set up a practice in 1909 in the building.
Bunsold envisions displaying MacIvor memorabilia, including old pill boxes
and bottles, along with copies of pictures. Another idea is to invite former
patients, their families and employees to sign one wall in the old waiting area.
In honor of the doctor's passion for gardening, the Bunsolds are thinking
about making the back of the building a storage area for gardening tools.
Bunsold said he remembers going over to the doctor's house for service calls
on Thursday and seeing Dr. MacIvor coming out of his garden wearing a red
bandana and boots.
He and his wife have also discussed the possibility of asking the MacIvor
family for plant starts to use in landscaping the medical cottage.
The Bunsolds invite anyone that would like to help them with this endeavor
to call 645-5141 or 642-7216.

Study ordered on rail crossing
By RYAN HORNS
Discussions about the East Fifth Street railroad crossing Thursday night at
the Marysville Public Service Committee meeting were a veritable tennis match.
Although opinions were lobbed back and forth, discussions remained polite.
Committee members made no official vote. The public, East Fifth Street
businesses and city administrators were simply able to voice concerns.
A point repeated often by city administrators was that the main issue is not
the East Fifth Street railroad crossing, the issue is the entire traffic
problem on the east side of Marysville. A road study should be completed as
soon as possible and the committee members plan to stick within the 30-day
period to have an answer for council.
Committee director Dan Fogt said Public Service members would meet again in
the first or second week of May. Until then, the city will have local police
patrol for aggressive drivers in the area.
Fogt said he has arranged for a railroad inspector to come and see the
crossing, sometime after April 27. He has also spoken with a PUCO
representative, who confirmed that she could not find an official request
from Marysville administrators to have the crossing checked out. They will
now send out an inspector as well.
Engineer Steve Jewell said he checked out the crossing, adding, "I've not
seen one that bad in a long time."
Responding to Jewell¹s observation later in the meeting, Marysville Council
President John Gore said, "I guess you scared me... That really got my attention."
Fogt explained the confusion over the statewide priority list to repair East Fifth Street's crossing.
Mayor Tom Kruse and city engineer Phil Roush maintained that the crossing
fell at number 5,075 out of 6,100 projects. Fogt said that those numbers
came from an April 26, 2005 letter. Since then the East Fifth Street repair
project has been moved to 352 out of 6500 projects for unknown reasons.
This information was confirmed by PUCO this week, Fogt said.
Roush said the city began looking into the crossing in 2005 after someone
had been driving and was almost struck by a train.
Kentucky Fried Chicken representative Robert Widder wondered if there had to
be a safety study in order to make the repairs on the Scottslawn Road
crossing. Why do they suddenly need one now? "That doesn't jive," he said.
Fogt said this summer CSX plans to upgrade three railroad crossings in
Marysville. If the city cannot get them to repair East Fifth Street too, "it
may be a number of years before it gets fixed."
Resident, and Children¹s Inc. representative, Michelle Amrine-O¹Connors said
that if the city would only apply for it, they could receive 100 percent of
the funding from the federal government. If that doesn¹t work, they could
receive 30 to 70 percent of the funding from the state.
O¹Connors said that she came before city council nine months ago about the
crossing. Now she wants to know why no one did anything and why it was
allowed to turn into such a problem.
"Until this week there has been no contact with PUCO," she said. "All it
took was a formal request."
She said it took her 20 minutes to get from Five Points to Children's Inc.
last week and questioned what is going to happen if EMS crews have to get
through that?  "You are being reactive instead of proactive," O'Connors said.
Widder said he has been in Marysville for 40 years and there have always
been more accidents at Five Points than anywhere else. Now it is worse. He
has no problem with closing the crossing if a study recommends doing it, but
nothing was handled in the right order.
"There has been a total lack of initiative from someone to get a good crossing," he said.
Kruse maintained that even if the crossing were repaired, the road was not
large enough to support the kind of traffic it needed to. He said he is not
going to put money into a street that may or may not be closed permanently.
Natural Accents business owner, Ron Miller said the road doesn't support two
lanes of traffic because it hasn't been maintained.
"The road is disappearing," he said.
Kruse said there is a priority list to pave streets and "ultimately East
Fifth Street is going to be repaved."
Some business owners around the East Fifth Street crossing also expressed
their concerns. Nicole Coy works for Lil' Tykes Learning Childcare, located near the
crossing. She presented a petition signed by 42 daycare parents, teachers
and administrators who feel the crossing should not be closed.
"We shut off a road that people used. That¹s what bothered me," Lil' Tykes
employee Tiffany Sobas said. "I think we have made a big mistake."
Coy said the closing has created a new problem with drivers cutting through
business parking lots at high speeds in order to access the other side of East Fifth Street.
Kruse mentioned during the meeting that he thought traffic seemed to be
flowing better this week.
"I don¹t know how we can say it's flowing better. It's a nightmare," Coy
said. "Closing this road has done nothing but jeopardize citizens ever further."
Attorney John Eufinger said he supports the decision to close the crossing,
because he drove on East Fifth Street all the time. He knew it wasn¹t safe,
but he did it anyway.
"I'm a typical driving idiot when it comes to that crossing," he said. "I
have to say that I do feel a lot safer."
Gore added that he has spoken with Kruse and knows that "the mayor had
genuine concern" for residents and their safety... "It was never the
intention to make life difficult."
A woman in the audience added that it was wrong for the city to close the
crossing a day earlier than first announced. "There was no plan," she said.

'He's a crook'
Judge sentences builder to eight years in prison
By RYAN HORNS
A Union County contractor who stole more than $100,000 from his clients and
employees will spend the next eight years in prison.
Dennis Landon has been called a "confidence man" and a "swindler" by his victims.
Last December, Landon, 41, of Richwood was indicted on 59 counts, including
a single charge for violating Ohio's Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt
Organizations Act (RICO), a first-degree felony; 21 counts of theft, all
fifth-degree felonies; four counts of grand theft, felonies of the fourth
degree; a count each of grand theft and theft, with enhancement as theft
from an elderly person, felonies of the fourth and third degree and 26
counts of money laundering, all third-degree felonies and five counts of
telecommunications fraud. Landon pleaded guilty to 27 counts of theft and
the remaining charges were dropped. The judge also ordered Landon to pay
court costs and $106,488.29 in restitution.
Thursday at 11:15 a.m. Landon was sentenced in the Union County Common Pleas
Court for those charges.
Union County Prosecutor, David Phillips, recommended an eight-year prison
term, which he communicated to the 27 victims.
Union County Common Pleas Court Judge Richard Parrott followed that recommendation.
Phillips explained that Landon operated a home-improvement company called
Landon Building Systems in Union County, which was used to defraud the 27
victims from February to August 2004.
Ohio Attorney General Jim Petro reported that while several of Landon's
customers have secured judgments against him, no refunds have been made for
the incomplete work. Of the 27 victims, six are from Union County; five from
Marion County; two each from Crawford, Logan and Morrow counties; and one
each from Auglaize, Champaign, Delaware, Franklin, Medina and Wyandot
counties and the states of Illinois, Minnesota, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Landon¹s defending attorney from Plain City, Cliff Valentine, said that his
client¹s contracting business began over the Internet. He said Landon soon
became swamped and was forced to take down payments on work he never
intended to do, in order to pay for other bills.
Valentine asked Parrott to take into consideration that Landon pleaded
guilty to the charges, which saved Union County having to spend funds to pay
for a lengthy trial. Phillips said that the trial could have lasted up to three weeks.
Landon told the court that he has cooperated fully with the prosecutor¹s
office. He even came back to Union County on his own, from his home in
Florida, when he learned he had been indicted.
But victim Richard Campbell said he was not sympathetic. He was also hot
happy with the sentence recommendation.
"Dennis really put the screws to us," Campbell said.
He said he is on disability and has a limited income. It will take him the
next 30 years to pay off the money Landon stole from him.
"This man has done this before several times," Campbell said. "This man took
$9,000 from me. That's the equivalent of 20 years of savings."
He said Landon conned him into taking out a mortgage on his home. Even after
Landon is set free, he will still be paying off the money he stole for decades.
'To just slap his hands and just let him go just isn¹t fair to the victims," Campbell said.
He wanted Parrott to sentence him for 30 years.
Parrott said that he can only follow the rule of law and eight years was the best he could do.
"If that¹s the best you can do, I'd sure like to see better than that," Campbell said.
"I have no sympathy for that man. He's a crook," Parrott assured him. "I
don¹t know how many victims he has left in his wake."
Parrott was able to alter the sentence for count 20 to 18 months, which was
the charge specific to Campbell. However, because sentences were run
consecutively, it did not alter the eight year sentence time period.
"Mr. Landon accepted thousands of dollars for work he never intended to
complete," Petro said. "This prison sentence sends a clear message to other
would-be scam artists - if you get paid, you better do the work."
The Union County Prosecutor's Office, Union County Sheriff's Office,
Richwood Police Department and Marion Police Department assisted Petro's
Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission (OOCIC) with this investigation.

County agencies honor EMA
Behind the scenes work called vital at emergency scene
By RYAN HORNS
County emergency responders met Wednesday night to pay homage to the
behind-the-scenes heroes, known as the Union County Emergency Management
Agency. Allen Township Fire Chief Rod Goddard said that many people do not know
the depth that EMA offers in emergency response support.
"They work behind the scenes and don't get a lot of pats on the back,"
he said. "We felt it was time to turn the tables."
The "pat on the back" culminated in a dinner at the Union County
Services building on London Avenue. Union County emergency responders
from every agency came to show their support for EMA Director Randy
Riffle, deputy director Brad Gilbert, planner Paul Slaughter, chief of
operations Marvin Gilbert and the numerous volunteers who help out at
emergency scenes. Firefighters served the dinners and sheriff's deputies
parked cars. "They give us trail mix and granola bars and we're going to give them
prime rib," Goddard joked. "It's about time someone said 'thank you.'
They offer us support on a multitude of levels."
He said it is the simple things that EMA members do that firefighters
appreciate so much. For every emergency situation, Goddard explained,
the EMA sets up a bus command center for communications and a
rehabilitation bus for emergency responders. Large tents can also be set
up to offer other services.
When firefighters come out of a burning building, simply being handed a
cold bottle of water is important, Goddard said. The agency's buses
offer facilities such as heaters in the winter and cooling water mists
for dehydrated firefighters in the summer.
Organized through the Union County Commissioners, the EMA provides the
Local Emergency Planning Committee; helped organize the implementation
of the MARCS radio system that revolutionized local communications;
provides weather emergency services (such as storm spotting and storm
tracking through HAM radio groups); organizes Emergency Operation
Centers which offer training for mock natural disasters and chemical
spills; offers a mass casualty trailer; and has HAZMAT equipment
available to help any county agency handle spills, whether it is from a
semi truck crash on U.S. 36 or a gas leak. The agency has also been
instrumental in managing funds for equipment to fire departments
including thermal imaging cameras and detectors for harmful gas levels.
"They strengthen our response and capabilities with this working
relationship," Goddard said. "It's an important asset to the community."
Riffle said he became involved in the EMA because he is also a fireman.
He said he appreciated the help the county Ladies Auxiliary group
offered to firemen by setting up stations at fires.
"We knew it needed to be done on a bigger scale," Riffle said.
"It's our turn to put them on a pedestal," Union County Sheriff Rocky
Nelson said. Nelson said the help of the EMA has been beneficial to the sheriff's
department during the floods in Plain City, road closures during traffic
crashes and dealing with closing crime scenes off from the public.
"They brought out lighting and equipment and helped us get out of the
weather," Nelson said. "You never hear the first grumble and they are
always eager to help."
Goddard said that the EMA has been able to accomplish a great deal on
"nothing more than a shoe-string budget."
Riffle said they have been able to renovate old buses for emergency use
and have thrived from the support of the community and local business donations.
In August the county EMA will celebrate its 10-year anniversary. Anyone
interested in volunteering for the EMA a few hours a week can contact its offices at 645-3174.

Jonathan Alder's Brandon Smith earns Eagle Scout designation
From J-T staff reports:
Brandon C. Smith of Plain City, received the Eagle Scout award at a
special ceremony March 25, at Cornerstone Church of Christ in Christian
Union. Pastor Phil Conrad was the featured speaker and presented the Eagle Charge.
Brandon was the first Scout to earn the award since his unit, Boy Scout
Troop 873 of Plain City, formed four years ago.
His Eagle service project was leading a team in building 10 picnic
tables for the church's shelter house.
He served as the troop's first senior patrol leader and troop guide.
Brandon also was elected into the Order of the Arrow and earned a total
of 25 merit badges.
A member of the 2006 senior class at Jonathan Alder, Brandon lettered in
cross country and band. He also participated in wrestling and earned a
blue belt in Karate. He is employed by Dick's Sporting Goods in Dublin,
and plans on studying archeology and anthropology in college next year.

Progress made on sewer line route
City officials, landowner make preliminary agreements for easement
By RYAN HORNS
Fourth-generation farmer Arno Renner and Marysville city council members
announced Tuesday that negotiations were successful for placing a sewer
line down Adelsberger Road. "It's all about preserving the farm land," Marysville City Council
president John Gore said. The Renner property along Industrial Parkway is protected by an
agricultural easement held by the Ohio Department of Agriculture.
Concerns arose months ago when Marysville Mayor Thomas Kruse threatened
to use eminent domain to dig a 40-foot trench through the land. The city
has since changed its route and depth, but still needed more than the
existing 30-foot road easement for construction.
Gore said issues still remain but they are concerns that can be dealt
with. On May 1 Millcreek Township is expected to approve the easement to
allow the roadwork to begin. Negotiations also remain on how much money
will be paid to Renner for the use of his land near the roadway.
Gore explained that there will be a 30-foot easement down Adelsberger
Road. Renner, with the blessings of the ODA, has verbally agreed to a
10-foot temporary easement to be used as a roadway for local traffic. He
also agreed to a second 10-foot temporary easement to allow the storage
of six to eight inches of top soil. The soil is not allowed to be driven
on and will be replaced when work is completed.
Gore said the projected time frame for the digging has not officially
been decided. The city expects to complete the work in a six to seven
month period which doesn't interfere with the business of farming the
land. If the city has to dig in the winter, that is an option.
Tuesday afternoon, Renner, 85, walked around his 227-acre farm with his
nephew Don Bailey, who farms the land, Gore and councilman David Burke.
Renner said that protecting agricultural land in the face of growth is important.
"We have to protect the resource," he said. "Agriculture is still the
number one industry in Ohio."
Renner hopes the compromise will "give a little boost to the farmland
preservation program."
Gore said that Renner never wanted to "stand in the way of progress."
The point was that Marysville needed to be a good neighbor.
Renner was very clear that what initially upset him was the approach he
said Marysville Mayor Tom Kruse took in the beginning.
"It was like, 'You do as I say,'" he said. "You don't threaten to take
somebody's land." "That was the big issue," Gore said.
"Those were not good days. But we got past that," Bailey said. "It is a
day and night difference from where it was a few months ago."
Renner's fight began in October when Marysville announced plans to run a
40-foot-deep sewer line across the length of his property in order to
connect its old sewer plant to the future $79 million plant slated for
Millcreek Township. The problem for Marysville was that Renner had
donated an agricultural easement on the land, said to be worth $3 million, to the ODA.
Renner wanted to keep agriculture alive in the growing region west of
Columbus. He said he was intent on keeping his word with the ODA by
protecting the land. State representatives said allowing the sewer line
to go through would turn off any future farm owners from donating their
land and it might threaten the future of the whole program. What
followed was a battle between the state and Kruse, who was threatening
to use eminent domain to do it anyway.
"They backed down," Renner said referring to the city's administration.
"Without the state behind me I never would have been able to hang in there."
Ultimately Marysville was forced to change its route to go down the
middle of Adelsberger Road. In order to do this, the city needed
temporary easements from ODA and Millcreek Township. Gore said Millcreek
Township and the state wouldn't grant the easement without Renner's approval.
Negotiations began after Gore and Burke met with Millcreek Township
trustee Bill Lynch. They soon began finding issues they could resolve by
working toward compromise. It took another half dozen meetings to get to
the bottom of what needed to be done.
Renner said it was the way Gore and Burke approached that situation that
made negotiations possible. The core concerns had to do with preserving
the land and allowing access to continue on the roadway.
Gore said Renner wanted to know how the roadway would be accessed, and
if it was going to be closed. This was resolved with the extra
easements. Another issue was whether or not the drainage tile was going
to be replaced after the work is completed.
"When it is all completed the city will replace the tile," Gore said.
Burke said the land will be handled under the supervision of the county
soil and water district. "We will put it back the way we found it," Burke said. "We will
personally be out there on a regular basis to check on our commitments.."
The city will also work with the contractors to create an escrow account
to make sure subcontractors also abide by the commitments, or else they
will pay to fix any mistakes. Contractors will pay $500 every time they
break the agreement, so they are held accountable.
Gore said it took the cooperation of many people to bring resolution to
its end. The Union County Farm Bureau, the Union Soil and water
Conservation District and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources,
neighbors, the Union County Prosecutor's Office, the Union County
Engineer, Union County Chamber of Commerce representative Rick Shortell
and Bailey all joined in the discussions to resolve the matter.
"The soil and water district are a very key player in Union County
agriculture," Gore said. "As is the farm bureau."
Howard Wise, the assistant director of the Ohio Department of
Agriculture, even came to Marysville to join in on the negotiations at
the Union County Soil and Water District offices.
Bailey said the Union County engineer has agreed to review the process
in order to make sure that commitments are met.
Gore said he learned a lot about the science of agriculture from these
negotiations. For hundreds of thousands of years, the land has been
undisturbed in the natural flow of water and drainage. To disrupt that
can render the soil useless.
From this point, the city of Marysville can begin the process of opening
bids for construction on the TIP project.

Local burglaries appear solved
From J-T staff reports:
The Marysville Police Department reported that charges are pending
against three juvenile males for burglaries that occurred in Green
Pastures earlier this year.
Assistant Chief Glenn Nicol said this morning that a 13-year-old male is
being charged with four counts of burglary and two counts of theft;
another 13-year-old male is charged with failure to report a felony
crime and a 15-year-old male is charged with receiving stolen property.
The charges are all pending through juvenile court.
Nicol said that on March 20 police began investigating burglaries
reported in the area of Dove Street and Sparrow Drive. He said the
break-ins happened during the first few months of 2006 and one had
occurred in late 2005.
He said one problem with the initial investigation was that some of the
burglaries were never reported to police.
Nicol said that police were led to the suspects after one of the
juvenile's parents found stolen items in their home. The parents called
police and the items were linked to burglaries in Hancock County. Other
items were linked to the Marysville break-ins. There was even a wallet
found that had been stolen from the Union County YMCA. Other items
stolen were cash, a wallet, and video game boxes.
The juveniles have not been arrested at this time and the case remains in juvenile court.

Jerome Township, Plain City officials discuss common issues
By CINDY BRAKE
Jerome and Plain City officials discussed several issues of common
interest at Monday's regular township meeting.
Portions of village lie in the township.
Mayor Sandra Adkins opened the discussion by saying a groundbreaking
ceremony is being planned in mid-May for the long-anticipated bypass project.
She added that a new wastewater treatment plant is scheduled to be
online in the next year. Officials expect most of the village's growth
to be in Madison County.
Concerning overlapping service areas between Marysville and Plain City,
Adkins said officials from both communities have met and hope to work cooperatively.
Everyone voiced concern about road improvements planned by the city of
Dublin to the Route 161/33 intersection near Industrial Parkway. Jerome
Township Trustee Robert Merkle said the improvements will dump more
traffic than existing roads can handle. Officials also commented on a
planned two to three lane roundabout in the area and wondered about the
impact this will have on travel.
Plain City officials are watching closely a permitting process for the
Big Darby now being discussed by several governmental entities. One
official said it appears that standards in the Madison and Union County
areas will be more stringent than in Franklin County.
Plain City is expecting to hear the results of a cost of growth study
this week and a public survey next week. The village is also working to
update their zoning code.
In addition to Adkins, others representing Plain City were council
president pro-tem Chris Johnston and council member Bob Walters.
Trustees present included Merkle, Andrew Thomas and Ron Rhodes.
The three-member township board took several actions during the regular
meeting, including the authorization of road improvements, purchase of a
vehicle for the fire department and hiring a road maintenance supervisor.
Denzil Collier was hired to supervise the road department at a rate of
$20 an hour. He was hired on an as-needed, on-call, flex-work schedule.
Greg Lawrenz was hired as on-call seasonal help at a rate of $13 an hour.
A resolution was passed stating that the township zoning coordinator was
authorized to negotiate an agreement to complete the comprehensive plan.
They also unanimously passed a resolution that all communication from the
prosecutor, engineer and LUC Planning Commission is to be distributed to each trustee.
In other business,:
. The board authorized cold mix improvements totaling $31,972 to Jacobs
Lane, Smith Place, Lambka and Rickard roads.
. The board authorized the purchase of a service vehicle for the fire
department from Chapman Ford of Marysville. Cost is $24,999 for the
pickup truck. It replaces a vehicle that has 115,000 miles. The older
vehicle will continue to be used by the fire department.
. Trustee Merkle will represent the township at a sketch plan review of
Hall's Corners on the eastside of U.S. 33 slated for today at 2 p.m.
. Thomas announced that the Union Soil and Water Conservation District
will conduct a tree and shrub sale on April 22 from 9 to 11 a.m.
. Rhodes announced that the fire department is again sponsoring a mulch
sale with all proceeds benefiting the community.
. A special meeting has been rescheduled for April 25 at 7:30 p.m

Marysville OKs new kindergarten schedule
All day/every other day plan approved
By KARLYN BYERS
Kindergarten pupils in the Marysville School District will attend
kindergarten all day, every other day this fall.
Board members unanimously voted Monday night to support Superintendent
Larry Zimmerman's recommendation to adopt the all-day, alternating day
(ADAD) scheduling. Not everyone agreed.
Jared and Amy Cox, parents of a daughter who will begin kindergarten
this fall, spoke before the vote was taken. They attended the April 10
meeting at Mill Valley Elementary sponsored by the school district and
didn't think ADAD was the right choice.
"It doesn't seem to us the data is really available to justify the
change," said Jared Cox. "I think the school district has done (its)
homework and has good intentions but I wasn't convinced. More time is not the answer."
Under ADAD scheduling, pupils will attend school Mondays and Thursdays
or Tuesdays and Fridays. Wednesday attendance will be alternated between
the groups. The school day will go from about 2 1/2 hours in length to
six, and the change will save the school district roughly $160,000 a year.
Sharon Kennedy, whose son will begin kindergarten this fall, gave a
letter expressing her concerns to Zimmerman prior to the vote. Kennedy
said she was "pretty much conceding" to ADAD scheduling, but she hoped
school administrators had a contingency plan in place to help pupils who fall behind.
"It is not inconceivable that one team might get behind the other ... ," Kennedy said.
She also urged the administrators to "come up with a goal and (evaluate)
it." This was especially important, she said, if the ADAD plan was in
response to the district's desire to continuously improve its children's education.
School officials have been looking for ways to incorporate more
instructional and socialization time in the kindergartners' school days
for about three years. This was in response to rising state standards
and expectations and many children starting kindergarten with speech and language delays.
Camy Cox said residents might have responded more favorably if they had
been kept in the loop from the beginning.
"It would have been so much easier, so much more helpful if you had come
to us earlier," she said. Zimmerman said in a press release this morning that Monday's decision
followed three years of research, input and discussion at each of the
elementary schools, six public meetings, and feedback from more than 150 parents.
Zimmerman also said in the press release he is grateful for the parent
and community feedback and support.
"We greatly appreciated the community's interest as we pursued this
option. I honestly believe that we are moving forward with the best
possible option that will give our teachers more time to help
kindergartners develop the skills they'll need to be successful in
school. We could never be as confident about this approach as we are
today had we not first taken time to address all the questions and
concerns raised in the community."
"Our district in the past has never looked at something that would
damage or hurt our kids in any way," board president Roy Fraker said at
the board meeting. Board members also authorized a change in starting and ending times at
Creekview Intermediate School, putting it on the same schedule as the
elementary schools. They also added an additional 15 minutes to the district school day.
Board members Jeffrey Mabee and Scott Johnson, who voted for the longer
day, said they had children who expressed dissatisfaction with the
choice. Zimmerman, the father of three sons, said his high schooler also
disliked the prospect of a longer school day.
Zimmerman reported that Trucco Construction has submitted the "low,
responsible and responsive" bid for site work at Northwood Elementary.
The bid was $1.2 million. He also reported a groundbreaking ceremony at
that school site will be held Monday. It has tentatively been scheduled for 5:30 p.m.

Kim Miller picked as new MR/DD superintendent
From J-T staff reports:
Kim Miller has been named superintendent of the Union County Board of
Mental Retardation. Miller was offered a two-year contract at Monday's regular board
meeting, states a press release. His duties begin July 15.
Miller reportedly has 28 years of experience in the field of
developmental disabilities, including nine as superintendent of the
Hardin County MR/DD program and six years as a consultant with numerous
statewide organizations including the Ohio Association of County Boards of MR/DD.
"I am excited about the opportunity to work with the Union County MR/DD
board and staff to maintain and develop effective partnerships with all
Union County stakeholders," Miller states in the press release.
A total of 18 applications were reportedly received for the post with
six candidates interviewed. Dublin Management Group was contracted by
the board to assist in the four-month search process.
Board president Bruce Davis wrote, "We are glad to have Kim on board and
look forward to his leadership in continuing to forge ahead in our
mission of providing quality community service and supports to citizens
with special needs in Union County."
Miller replaces retiring superintendent Jerry L. Buerger. Buerger has
been superintendent for 19 years and in the MR/DD field for more than 30
years.

JA to put property  tax levy on August ballot
By CORINNE BIX
Members of the Jonathan Alder Board of Education voted Monday night to
put an emergency property tax levy of 5.9 mills on the Aug. 8 ballot.
District voters defeated an income tax levy Feb. 7 that would have
generated $1 million annually for the district's operating expenses. It
was the second defeat for the issue which was also on the Nov. 8 ballot.
In February, board members weighed in on the issue of running an income
tax versus a property tax on the May ballot. Although all agreed that an
income tax is more fair across the board, the general consensus was that
the voters have spoken. Superintendent Doug Carpenter had said at that
time that historically the district has fared better at the polls with a property tax.
Many levy proponents are wearing buttons with the number "601" in bold
print. Kathy Welch, director of special education for the district, and
board meeting attendee, explained the significance of the "601" number.
"Out of 612 school districts in the entire state there are only 11
school districts who spend less per pupil than Jonathan Alder," Welch
explained, "We knew we were thrifty but we didn't know we were doing that well."
Welch along with other levy supporters want to see the voters pass the
property tax for the betterment of district students.
Carpenter said that if the levy passes in August, Jonathan Alder will
still remain the lowest taxed school district in the central Ohio area.
In a unusual move, district parents chose to appeal their son's
suspension from Canaan Middle school during Monday night's public meeting.
Parents are given the choice, in the event they choose to appeal a
suspension, to present their case in a private executive session with
the school board or in an open forum. Carpenter said this was the first
time in all of his years with the district that parents have opted for
the public meeting. Carpenter began the appeal by reviewing the Ohio
Revised Code rules and regulations. The entire session was taped, and
all those present were asked to state their name.
The parents gave a detailed explanation as to why they felt their son's
suspension should be rescinded or reduced. Overall they felt that the
progression of discipline was askew and high school disciplining
expectations were being put on the middle school.
According to the school, the student was in violation of fighting on
school grounds. The incident took place before regular school hours
during an impromptu basketball game in the school gym and there was no
teacher supervision. This was not the student's first documented offense.
Bobby Moore, Canaan Middle School principal, was at the meeting and
presented the school's stance on the disciplinary action taken.
Moore explained that the physical education teacher had made students
aware that they could only be in the gymnasium prior to the school day
if she was present to supervise. She also made a rule that no
competitive games could be played before school.
The parents cited some discrepancies as to whether their son had been
told before or after the incident that students could not be in the gym
without the teacher present.
The physical education teacher was absent on the day of the occurrence.
She stated per a letter sent to board members that the student was fully
aware of the rules before the occurrence.
Moore stated that district parents were also made aware in a fall
newsletter that as part of the teacher's union contract, the teacher's
workday doesn't officially begin until 7:15 a.m.
The board retired into executive session and returned a unanimous vote
to uphold the suspension. "We do feel progressive discipline took place," Steve Votaw, board
president, said, "We feel it's very important we uphold the no fighting
policy in our schools." They cited that the student was in violation of fighting on school
grounds along with breaking rules set by the physical education teacher.
Votaw thanked the parents for coming to present their son's case.
Carpenter asked the board to consider a policy revision that would set
rental costs for school facilities. The building rental/community use of
facilities policy needs to be revised to include the new high school
building. Carpenter said in light of the new facility and it's newer
technology that the board may want to consider charging higher rental
fees for use of the high school's main gym and/or auditeria.
Carpenter suggested they take some time to review the proposed fee
schedule and consider many things including the complexity of spaces
available for rent and what would be considered a community cost free
function versus a rental function. Several board members proposed
putting off a fee schedule until after the outcome of the August
election. All agreed that they want to encourage the community use of
the facilities, however they want to ensure that the district incurs no
undue cost. Carpenter said that whether or not a fee schedule is
approved it could always be revisited at a later date.
In regard to the district's finances, James Phillips, board member,
wanted to ensure that district residents understood that "a lot of
things were up in the air" citing his reservations on setting rental
fees before the August election.
The board voted to rehire six district staff and three teachers for the
2006-2007 school year under the retire/rehire policy that was
implemented four years ago. Carpenter said this policy has helped keep
experienced staff along with saving the district a considerable amount
of money. Initial research, done four years ago, showed a savings of
$200,000 to the district given that retire/rehire employees are not paid
health benefits by the district and they are bumped down on the pay scale.
The board accepted four teaching staff requests for retirement effective
at the end of the 2005-2006 school year. They included Kathy Kise, third
grade; Mary Lamon, reading specialist; Peggy Duffy, special education;
and Alison Benton, first grade.
The board approved the non-renewal of Edward Pate's contract as a
custodian for the 2006-2007 school year. Carpenter had no comment on the
non-renewal. The board adjourned into executive session to hear another appeal of
suspension. Steve said today that the board voted to uphold the suspension.
The next regular board meeting will be May 11 at 7 p.m.

Veteran teacher let go at North Union
Show of support from staff, community fails to change board vote
By CHAD WILLIAMSON
An elementary school art teacher with more than 20 years of experience
in the district will not be re-employed by North Union next fall.
A motion to non-renew the contract of teacher Melanie Price was passed
by a vote of 4-1 by the North Union School Board at Monday night's
meeting. Board member Kevin Crosthwaite cast the dissenting vote on the issue.
Price was supported by dozens of teachers and community members at the
meeting. Following the meeting Price shared tearful hugs with many in attendance.
Third grade teacher Helen Anderson addressed the board prior to the
vote. Anderson, who has taught in the district for three years, said
Price helped her understand the closeness of the North Union community.
Anderson said Price was and able and motivated teacher and her loss
would affect the staff and the community. She invited the board to look
at Price's teaching as a whole, not simply focus on individual events.
"I invite you to step back ... don't get buried in the details," she said.
Anderson said the issue concerns a teacher who is valuable to students
and the community. "Mel wants to teach and she wants to teach here," Anderson said,
followed by extended applause, as teachers and community members stood
in support. Crosthwaite said the board has spent a great deal of time discussing the
matter and did not rush into the decision.
Board member Dennis Hall said the issue has been a difficult one for the
board, adding that he appreciated the community interest in the matter.
He said the basis for the move centered on students and the board's
desire to work toward the continuous improvement of young people.
In other business, the board:
.Heard an update from superintendent Carol Young about the district's
status with the Ohio School Funding Commission. The district has
received word that funding for a new middle school will be released in
the near future. The planning phase will now begin, the project will be
put out for bids in the fall of 2007 and the new facility should open in 2009.
.Accepted a certificate of appreciation from Marian Jacques of Big
Brothers/Big Sisters for North Union's involvement in a student tutoring program.
.Heard an update on school related issues in the legislature from board member Don Tumeo.
.Viewed a presentation by Ed Kapel, director of special education, about
technology needed in the district to help students with special needs.
.Set dates and times for several future board meetings.
.Set the public reception for new superintendent Rick Smith for May 4
from 6-7:30 p.m. at North Union Elementary.
.Approved additions and revisions to board policy.
.Set fees for summer school classes.
.Approved Julie Hatfield as a child of a staff member attending North Union for 2006-07.
.Set graduation for the class of 2006 for June 9 at 7 p.m. in the high school gymnasium.
.Approved a contract with the West Liberty-Salem school district for
handicapped North Union pupils residing in foster care in that district.
.Approved an FFA-sponsored trip to the Washington Leadership Conference
in June and the FFA Summer Leadership Camp in July.
.Approved three middle school teachers to attend the Intel International
Science and Engineering Fair in Indianapolis in May.
.Approved a revision to the technology coordinator's job description effective July 1.
.Voted to employ various staff members to one, two, three and five-year
or continuing contracts.
.Voted to non-renew all limited supplemental contracts of certified
staff members at the conclusion of their current contracts.
.Voted to non-renew all limited pupil activity contracts for
non-certificated staff members at the conclusion of their current contracts.
.Voted to non-renew all limited supplemental contracts for extended duty
at the conclusion of the current contracts.
.Accepted the resignation of Charles Whitt of his limited teaching
contract at the end of the current school year.
.Voted to non-renew "as needed" contracts for school age child care employees.

United Way plans awards ceremony, volunteer fair
From J-T staff reports:
A new program to honor its volunteers and investors will highlight
National Volunteer Week activities for the United Way of Union County.
An informal, after-hours reception will be the setting when the local
nonprofit organization presents its annual campaign awards Tuesday,
April 25. Representatives from all of United Way's member agencies also
will be present with information for those wishing to get involved as a volunteer.
The event will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Union County Services
Center, 940 London Ave. It is open to the public. A celebration of
United Way's top corporate donors and volunteers will occur at 6 p.m.
Complimentary light food and beverages will be provided by Heflin's
Caterers. A raffle will take place and door prizes will be given away.
Admission to the event is free.
Eight local businesses will be receiving United Way's Gold Campaign
Award - the highest award bestowed upon local businesses for their
financial contributions to United Way of Union County. Twelve businesses
will receive a campaign chair award for their outstanding participation
in United Way's most recent fund-raising efforts. Four businesses will
receive a Friend of the United Way Award for their partnerships with the organization.
"United Way stands at the crossroads of business and philanthropy," said
Dave Bezusko, United Way's Campaign and PR director. "More than 200 area
workplaces chose to make an impact in our community through United Way
this past year and this is our chance to say thanks for entrusting us
with your charitable dollars."
To date, United Way has collected $703,710 in pledges for 2005-2006,
with final projections totaling $713,000. The money benefits 24 Member
Agencies in four impact areas as well as United Way's own programming in
the community. The event is being held in conjunction with National Volunteer Week to
capitalize on the heightened awareness of volunteerism and the natural
inquiries that many people have at this time of year about getting
involved in the community.
"The Volunteer Fair portion of the event will provide a 'one-stop shop'
for those who want to find out the kinds of volunteer opportunities that
are available in our community," Bezusko said. "With 24 agencies that
provide a myriad of services to all segments of the population, there's
bound to be an opportunity that meets your interests and your schedule,
whether it's a one-time project or an on-going commitment."
For more information about United Way's Campaign Awards and Volunteer
Fair, those interested may visit www.unitedwayofunioncounty.org. or call 644-8381.

Plans for Jerome Village announced
By CINDY BRAKE
Jerome Village sounds good to some residents, but many questions remain
about the proposed 2,200 residential development.
Approximately 75 people attended this week's open house sponsored by
developer Highland Management Group to watch a video, talk to employees,
look at 21 display boards and munch on snacks.
Comments were generally positive. Some hope the development will bring
water to their property. Others are looking for a walking neighborhood.
And yet others think it is the best use for the land.
Gina Chervin and Laurel Seely Benefiel are hoping the project will bring
water to where they live in the existing Jerome village.
Highland spokesman Sue Burness said the developer is looking at possible
opportunities that might help with the historical aspect and some
revitalization of that area.
"But this is really a township issue over time. The developer doesn't
own that property nor do they have any authority to do anything to it.
The developers speculate that over time improvements will be made to the
area because of the surrounding development," Burness writes via e-mail.
Jim King, a resident of New California Woods, said he likes the concept
and layout of the development, but believes it is too early to tell.
King said he moved to the township six years ago when he was single. At
that time he said his property was a retreat. Now married with two
children, he said, his wife wants a community with infrastructure, parks
and other amenities. Township resident Fred Neuschwander said the plan did not look like
"rural character" to him. He also was concerned that the area might be
annexed by Marysville when it is contingent. The project is not in the
"growth area" which requires eventual annexation.
Paul Henderlong who has lived on Jerome Road for 30 years traded 11
acres of his 42-acre farm for the development. He said he is impressed
with the development's long-range plans, adding that land in that area
has poor drainage and is not of real good agricultural value.
Ruth Weeks and Janice Sonnenberg both grew up on farms in the area and
have plenty of memories to share about the past. Sonnenberg points to
place on the map where her dog is buried and an old log cabin burned
down. Jerome Village will affect both of their properties.
"This is exciting. I hope it happens," Weeks said.
Officials, who have met privately with the developer, have their own opinions.
Commissioner Tom McCarthy, in a meeting with Union County Engineer Steve
Stolte and commissioners Gary Lee and Charles Hall, questioned how the
project will ever get through Jerome Township. The township voters have
repeatedly blocked development projects by referendum. As a result, the
city of Dublin has annexed numerous acres.
Commissioner Hall said he is concerned about how the existing township
roads will be able to handle the increased traffic.
Stolte said he has asked the developer for $25,000 to assist in
transportation planning, but received no response.
Millcreek Township Trustee Bob Merkle said the plan "looks to be
well-thought through, a quality growth plan." He adds that it appears to
maintain some rural character.
Fairbanks School District superintendent Jim Craycraft states in an
e-mail that he has discussed some timelines with the developer and "how
we could help each other. We talked about the issues we may have but we
have not seen the plat drawings, the timelines and they have not gone
through the zoning process yet. Of course it is a problem, but we as a
school district can do very little to 'stop' a development ... We have
no legislative power to order the developer to pay for schools or charge
an impact fee. We are basically in a reactive position."
Craycraft adds that having the industrial, commercial, office complex in
the Fairbanks district will help increase the tax base, but high density
housing will create a problem.
"If the developers are willing to assist with the growth process, we can
get through it," he states. "The developers know if the schools are not
there, they don't sell houses."

What people are saying about the proposed development
By CINDY BRAKE
After first meeting with several elected officials, Highland Management
Group Inc. unveiled its vision for Jerome Village this week to the public.
Future open house meetings are planned for April 27 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
and May 6 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Jerome United Methodist Church.
The vision is to transform 1,250 acres in Jerome Township from farm land
to a place where "life is in balance." Balance, according to a press
release, means rural character and local heritage blended with green
space, parkways, diverse and distinctive homes, work life, school life and home life.
The Union County development would be located between Brock Road to the
south, Home Road to the north, U.S. 42 to the west and Jerome Road to
the east. Glacier Ridge Metro Park abuts the property's southern border
and Dublin's city limits.
Groundbreaking is planned for the fall of 2007. The 15-20 year master
plan projects 2,200 residential units at an average density of 1.7 per
acre. Home prices will range from $150,000 to more than $1 million.
The project will include 1,500 single family homes and 600 to 700
townhouse and condominiums. The development includes setting aside 35
acres for two Dublin schools. Approximately 90 percent of Jerome Village
is in the Dublin City School District.
Spokesman Sue Burness said some multi-family housing is planned for the
Fairbanks School District, but most is retail/commercial.
A press release states the village is based on "Smart Growth" principles
and Traditional Neighborhood Development. What that appears to mean is a
community that offers walking options to various destinations.
Plans call for 60 percent of the housing to be within a 10-minute walk
or less to the town center. The town center is expected to include
restaurants, retail, a church, town hall, library, green mall and offices.
"The town center will be the heart of the community. Tree-lined,
walkable streets will connect everything you need such as schools, shops
and the library," states Scott Mallory of Highland Management Group in a
press release. "This is a new settlement for the 21st century."
The developers are also planning to preserve  an area they call the
rookery. Scott Sonnenberg, a Jerome Township landowner and environmental
engineer, said he and an environmental scientist counted more than 100
heron nests in February. "The rookery is not the largest, but is one of the largest inland
rookeries in Ohio," Sonnenberg writes via e-mail. He said rookeries
along Lake Erie will include more than 1,000 nests, but most inland
"heronries" are composed of 75 or fewer nests.
Wetlands and tree masses will also be protected, states a fact sheet.
The proposed community is to be completely wireless, including
streetlights. Marysville will provide water and sewer services.
Nationwide Realty Investors is identified as a financial investor. Bird
Houk Collaborative is listed as the projects land planner and architect.

Crossing issue sent to committee
By RYAN HORNS
The issue of Marysville city administrators closing down the railroad
crossing at East Fifth Street has been a polarizing one.
Thursday night's city council meeting was a good example of this. The
night saw an explanation from Mayor Tom Kruse regarding his decision, as
well as input from members of the public who disagreed with him.
City Council President John Gore ultimately decided that the issue of
closing down the intersection permanently needs to be reviewed by the
city Public Services Committee, chaired by councilman Dan Fogt.
Gore said the group would go over the legalities and details of the
issue and have an answer within 30 days. After that time the crossing
debate will come back to council as legislation and they will explain
why they are going to open the roadway to through traffic, or why they
are closing it down permanently.
Gore said the mayor has the power to close roads temporarily based on
the health and welfare of the citizens. But he said that in order to
close the intersection permanently, council must first pass legislation.
Until then, he asked that residents respect the crossing closure.
Kruse explained his thought process on closing the crossing.
"I find it difficult to take the chance with some citizen's life in
order for some other citizen to get from Point A to Point B a little
quicker," Kruse said.
He said everyone could agree that the crossing on East Fifth Street
"isn't the most desirous situation." The view of train traffic to the
north is obstructed, the crossing itself is falling apart and the road
cannot support two lanes of traffic.
Kruse said the city made an attempt to clear the brush away from the
area in the past, and then was "chastised by CSX" for lack of authority.
He said the city was also chastised for placing a "Dangerous Crossing"
sign on the road.
Kruse said with the recent boom of Coleman's Crossing businesses, the
traffic flow down East Fifth Street has "increased dramatically."
He also addressed a recent letter to the editor and editorial in the
Marysville Journal-Tribune, which he felt suggested he wasn't being
truthful about his attempts to resolve the crossing with the Ohio Rail
Commission and CSX. The response was that Marysville's East Fifth
Crossing falls at number 5,075 on a list of 6,100 crossings in need of
repairs in Ohio. "Which leads me to believe we're not going to get very
assistance in the very near future," Kruse said.
Vocal critic of the crossing closure, resident Michelle
Amrine-O'Connors, said this morning that the city allegedly falls at
number 352 on that list. She also voiced her frustration on hearing that
PUCO has yet to receive a formal request to upgrade the crossing from
Marysville administrators. Especially because she claims she has been
sending the city information from PUCO and CSX and as well as a petition
of more than 100 signatures to keep the crossing open.
"I'd like to know what they have done with everything I have provided
and why, after closing the railroad and after claims have been made to
one day fix this intersection, nothing has actually been done to do so," she said.
Kruse said Marysville operates on a tight budget and that if they were
going to afford the $160,000 price tag to fix the crossing, it would
have to be diverted from other city functions.
"That could mean three police officers, or firemen or snow plow people,
or trucks," he said. "The money just isn't there."
Kruse said he would continue working with city council to resolve the matter.
Citizen Barb Miller said that she works at Natural Accents, a business
near to the East Fifth Street Crossing. Customers to the store often
walk across the road to eat dinner at another business and they are often elderly.
Miller said that this afternoon, on the first day of the road closing,
numerous drivers came down the road and became "angry at having to
change their direction" and then turned around at high speeds back out.
She said it is placing her customers and employees in danger.
Citizen Harold Raymond said he opposes the railway closing. He also
would like to know if it is supposed to be a permanent thing or temporary.
He said if someone was going to purposefully harm himself or herself at
a railroad crossing they had any number to chose around town.
Kruse said he is more concerned with a young mother driving numerous
children to one of the child care operations across Coleman's Crossing
Boulevard. If someone were on a cell phone, dealing with a carload of
kids, they might not be paying attention.
A local cab driver said that every time a train comes through town,
there are seven roads that are cut off from traffic flow. He suggested
the city look into building a bridge - although he admitted a bridge
would be more expensive than fixing the crossing.
Resident Bob Meader seemed to suggest that the crossing closure was a
good thing. He said older citizens do not have the ability to strain
their necks to see if a train is coming.
In other business:
. A leadership group representative, associated with the Chamber of
Commerce, announced that there are plans to create an athletic or
leisure walking trail in the uptown area. It is expected to be a
two-mile trail, which will have markers posted every 1/4 mile. The trial
will open on May 20 at 9:30 a.m. The group hopes that the community will
join them and use the trail frequently in order to promote the uptown.
. Dayton Power and Light representative Bill Kelley added legislation to
the agenda as a result of the electrical company's attempts to upgrade
it's existing capacity to better serve the area. It is a project going
on throughout the state in other cities.
Kelley said that in the process of adding new power lines along West
Fifth Street, down Raymond Road, across U.S. 33 and toward Mill Valley
Park South, they discovered that some easements were never approved. He
asked for approval to place the power lines underground. The upgrade
will help prevent power shortages to Mill valley residents in the summer months.
. The first reading on a resolution was read to approve of the intent to
appropriate easements associated with the sewer line path toward the
future wastewater treatment plant. City law director, Tim Aslaner, said
that has had the easements appraised and has contacted the property
owners. They are "still under negotiations" with some of the property owners.
He said the legislation was created in order to approve the
appropriation of the easements in case the matter is resolved.
. Regarding the second reading of to amend Capacity Charges for the
city, councilman Dave Burke said that some citizens thought it meant
their water fees were going up. This is not the case. The fees are for
new developments and will ultimately reduce the fees for citizens in the long run.

Survivors prepare for Relay for Life
From J-T staff reports:
Approximately 100 cancer survivors will be honored this year during the
American CAncer Society's Relay for Life of Union County.
The relay is an 18-hour event that brings teams from local businesses,
schools, churches and families together for fun, food, music,
entertainment and a night under the stars while team members take turns
walking or running around the track. More than 35 teams will be
walking/running for 18 hours.
The Cancer Survivors Walk kicks off the event along with a reception to
celebrate life. This is the eighth year of the annual event and this
year's goal is to raise more than $75,000 for research, education,
advocacy and quality of life programs.
For more information contact Kathy Nichols at 642-0545 or Julie Adams at
537-1971. The American Cancer Society is the nation's leading voluntary health organization.

Recognizing autism
Speaker educates law officers and others on handling individuals with the disorder
By RYAN HORNS
In the early 1980s, educator Dennis Debbaudt picked up a young, kicking
and screaming, boy in a toy store at the mall and carried him to his car.
He said to someone nearby thought it looked like he was abducting the
child and called the police. The real story was that the boy was his own
son, who happened to be having an autistic fit in the mall toy store.
Debbaudt said that explaining the situation to the police didn't help
the matter. The officer started questioning the boy to determine if he
was all right, but his son could not communicate.
"That was the day I thought what it was going to be like when my son was
out there alone," Debbaudt said.
It is a lack of understanding of autism that often leads to trouble for
it's victims, he said. That day at the mall led him to start a campaign
to educate the world on the reality of autism. For more than 15 years he
has authored numerous books, held conferences and held workshops  on
helping people understand autism around the United States, Canada and
the United Kingdom.
Debbaudt was brought to speak locally this week, from a grant awarded to
the Union County Sheriff's Office through the State of Ohio Office of
Criminal Justice Services. He has been training local law enforcement on
autism. He has also been training local health care providers, teachers,
parents and fire department officials. Through understanding the
disorder, those going through the training may avoid harming themselves,
autistic people and lawsuits.
He explained that autism is a neurological disorder which typically
appears during the first three years of life. It predominately affects
men and impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of
social interaction and communication skills. The number of diagnosed
cases affects one in every 166 people. The condition can be improved
upon for some victims, but it lasts a lifetime.
Debbaudt explained that people misunderstand autism because they cannot
tell if someone has it just by looking at them. The disability also has
been known to make its victims into "truth tellers." Without the correct
understanding, the brain disorder can be mistaken for criminal behavior.
"When you don't know the social rules you can get yourself into
trouble," he said. "If people make misjudgments they call 911."
Behavioral signs of an autistic person might be confused with crimes
such as stalking, shoplifting, peeping in windows, sexual crimes or an
accomplice to a crime.
Debbaudt said if a man goes to a beach, he may see a woman in a skimpy
bikini. The normal person may sneak a peak by putting on sunglasses and
stealing a sideways glance.
He said that a man with autism might see the girl in the bikini and then
walk right up to her, get uncomfortably close and stare. She might
become upset and ask him what he is doing. He would probably tell her he
is staring at her because he wants to have sex with her - not a very
socially acceptable response. The autistic man is just being completely
honest. He doesn't mean any harm, he just lacks the social skills to
know that what he is doing is unacceptable in society. At that point the
woman might call the police.
Another problem autistic victims have with law enforcement is that when
they are confronted with a situation they don't understand, they may
begin mimicking a person's body language and words because they don't
know how to respond.
"Why are you bothering this woman," the officer would ask.
"Why are you bothering this woman," the autistic man would say back.
Debbaudt said it may repeat like this until the police officer feels threatened.
Another aspect of autism is that its victims can become a safety and
criminal justice risk. People with autism often wander away from homes
and become vulnerable to danger. Their behavior can draw police
attention. Victims also have high pain thresholds, which can make them unaware of danger.
If police are called, an autistic person might not respond to commands,
can invade personal space, have extreme reactions to changes in their
routine, or give false statements out of confusion.
Debbaudt told law enforcement officials that learning how to deal with
autistic people can help them learn to be better communicators with
everyone they deal with. The same techniques can be used when helping
the mentally ill, mute, victims of head trauma, or even someone from a
foreign country who doesn't understand the language or the norms of society.
He said police should always make sure the person is unarmed, approach
them in a non-threatening manner. Talking calmly, with simple and direct
questions also helps. Other methods are to avoid touching the person and
be alert to sudden outburst so they can calm the person down.
Debbaudt said it is important for anyone with an autistic child to
contact local law enforcement and register his or her address. If a
situation arises at the home and police are called, officers will know
what to expect before arriving.

City eyes full slate of projects
 By RYAN HORNS
The metaphor at Marysville's Public Service Committee Tuesday night  was
"keep walking." The list of projects and city needs is formidable, but committee members
talked about how they need to take on one project at a time.
"We have some big things on our plate right now," City Administrator Kathy House said.
Councilman Ed Pleasant said that the hope is to use momentum and keep
going forward "ever so slowly."
The committee talked about proposed impact fees for new developments,
projects associated with the future wastewater treatment plant, heard an
update on the future reservoir, talked about street paving plans,
discussed the East Fifth Street road closure and then mulled over goals
for the rest of the year.
The committee agreed that the main focus needs to stay with paving city
streets. In 2005 the city completed $2 million of paving and another
$1,141,000 will be completed this summer and fall.
House said that the city board of control awarded the paving contract to
the same company that paved the streets last year, Chemcote.
The committee said it would like to pursue impact fees. The fees
calculate what kind of burden a new development is going to place on
city services or taxpayers and then charges the developers a fee to
counteract that burden. If the fee was created in Marysville, the money
raised would be funneled into paying for capital projects and equipment
needed to accommodate the growth. These could include street
improvements, fire and police stations or vehicles and park improvements.
With the city administration's agenda full of many numerous major
projects, it was discussed how studying the implementation of the fees
could be facilitated. Outside consultants could be hired to complete the
study, or they could add another staff member to take on the project.
House said either option would allow the current staff to continue
focusing primarily on higher priority projects.
Councilman Mark Reams brought up the possibility of hiring an assistant
city engineer. The position is just an idea right now, but Reams said
the person could focus on creating a study for impact fees.
Councilman Dan Fogt asked Pleasant if they should get started on hiring
someone as soon as possible. "That's my assumption," Pleasant said.
He said that he does not want to see the fire and police departments
"operating at delinquency." As soon as the street paving is finished the
impact fees can go toward those areas, hopefully building a new satellite fire station.
House said that the whole process of either hiring a consultant or
additional staff to do an impact fee study "will take several months."
"But we're walking," Pleasant said.
Fogt suggested they finish the study of a streets impact fee and then
put it all together with impact fees for other areas afterwards.
On the topic of the Trunk Interceptor Project, city engineer Phil Roush
said the city has eight easements completed and 12 in progress. The
process should be wrapped up in 30 to 60 days.
House said once the easements are filed with the court, the city can begin digging.
Roush said discussions are still in progress for the Adelsberger Road
easement from landowner Arno Renner and the Millcreek Township trustees.
Meanwhile the future wastewater treatment plant, or Water Reclamation
Facility project, can move ahead. The city hopes to begin construction
in August or September.
For the reservoir project, Roush said, the timeline "has slipped a bit."
He said the reason is because they are so focused on other projects.
House said that "the design work is basically done" for the reservoir
and that they are not in danger of losing their permit for the project
as long as they begin by July 2007 - but an extension of the permit is
also possible. A total of six to eight easements have been identified as
necessary for the project's construction.
Roush said that all of the property owners for the easements have been
contacted once. On the plan to close East Fifth Street at the railroad crossing, House
said that the city will put up temporary barricades on Thursday
afternoon. It was supposed to be done Friday, but it was discovered that
Good Friday is a holiday for workers.
Pleasant said he hoped that businesses such as 84 Lumber do not suffer
from the closure and that traffic on Delaware Avenue doesn't become out of hand.
"I'm scared to death it's really going to get crowded," he said.
House said she also hoped businesses would not be hit, but that they
need to be more concerned with public safety.
Roush said he has continued contacting the Ohio Rail Authority and PUCO.
He said a recent letter the city received from one of the two stated the
estimated cost to install proper rail crossing equipment there would be
$140,000 to $160,000.  The letter also listed Marysville's East Fifth
Street railroad crossing project as number 5,075 on a list of 6,100 Ohio
priority crossing projects. "Well, at least we're not down on the bottom," Reams said in jest.

Mayor Kruse wrong to close rail crossing -An Editorial
Marysville Mayor Tom Kruse has carried through with his threat to close
East Fifth Street at the CSX Railroad crossing just west of 84 Lumber by
announcing late last week that tomorrow will be the last day  traffic
will be allowed to cross the tracks. A barricade will be installed
Friday to block the crossing. We feel this is a big mistake.
The mayor cites safety factors for his reason to close the street, but
all of these factors are nothing more than conjecture. He feels that the
railroad crossing is unsafe and that an accident there is imminent.
There are no statistics to back him up. In our memory, dating back to
the 1950s, there have been no train-vehicle accidents there and
certainly no one killed or even injured.
Of course, this doesn't mean that a mishap won't occur there in the
future (and we pray that it doesn't), but decisions about the safety of
railroad crossings and street intersections can't be based on what might
happen down the road.
With development on the east edge of the city including the Coleman
Crossing area, traffic has increased tremendously on Delaware Avenue and
Industrial Parkway in the past few years. Those who drive there know
what we are referring to. Just the other day, we had to wait through
five green traffic lights at the intersection of Delaware Avenue and
Charles Lane to get beyond it.
Basically, the city has done nothing to alleviate the congestion. The
problem is, it is only going to get worse. With additional businesses
committed to locate in Coleman Crossing, and with City Gate waiting to
open, the traffic quagmire could turn into a nightmare.
That is why taking advantage of a third access to Coleman Crossing via
East Fifth Street is so important. It allows the driver to avoid the
congestion on Delaware Avenue when traveling to the Union County YMCA,
Children Inc., the Honda dealership, and even Wal-Mart and Home Depot.
And what about 84 Lumber? We just read about how troubled the company is
and that it is closing several locations across the country. Forcing
customers of the local store to drive so far out of their way may well
be the straw that ends its operation here. After all, other businesses
now in that area sell some of the same products.
We understand and admit that the railroad crossing on East Fifth Street
is somewhat dangerous and in poor condition. There are no crossing
gates, not even flashing red lights. There are weeds and overgrowth
which impede a driver's view to some extent. It was the same when it was
Watkins Road before the bypass was constructed. But instead of trying to
improve the area, the mayor simply decides to close the street and lay
the blame on CSX, PUCO the Federal Rail Authority.
As Michelle Amrine-O'Conners discovered, what the mayor says isn't
always accurate. In a Letter to the Editor in the March 31 edition of
the Journal-Tribune, she outlined what the city can do to help make the
crossing more safe. One simple item she pointed out is for the city to
cut down all those weeds and overgrowth.
We also question some of Kruse's comments. In last Friday's
Journal-Tribune article about the crossing closure, he is quoted as
saying that it takes less time to travel to Home Depot from the Five
Points intersection by using Industrial Parkway than East Fifth Street.
This is not accurate. It is a half-mile longer by using Industrial
Parkway, and a left-hand turn is required into Coleman Crossing.
Oddly enough, by using that route, vehicles must still cross the CSX
tracks near the VFW. There is no crossing gate, but flashing red lights are installed.
While we appreciate the mayor's concern for the safety of the citizens
of Marysville, we feel that to make a decision to close such an
important thoroughfare needs to be studied in depth, not only by him,
but also by council. Council meets Thursday evening, and we urge its
members to countermand the mayor's order to close East Fifth Street at
least until the matter can be fully looked into, utilizing facts, not
conjecture and misinformation.

City's Main St. paving project
From J-T staff reports:
Marysville city administrator Kathy House released specifics this
morning about an uptown Marysville road paving project.
House said that the city of Marysville and the Ohio Department of
Transportation will resurface Main Street from Eighth Street north to
Elwood Avenue, as well as Elwood Avenue north to the city limits.
In preparation for this project, House said, the city will have to do
extensive base repair work on Main Street between Sixth and Fourth streets.
These repairs will require road closures in these two blocks for
extended periods of time during daytime and nighttime hours.
"In order to minimize the length of time needed to make these repairs,
we will have repair crews working through the nighttime hours removing
roadway for asphalt crews to replace during the day," House said.
Roadways will be closed from midnight to 3:30 p.m. each day.
Construction is expected to start near the third week of April,
depending on the opening date for the asphalt plants.
"Depending on weather conditions, repairs should take no more than three
weeks," House said. The exact starting date for the full resurfacing has yet to be
determined by ODOT, House also said. However work is scheduled to be
completed at night. Those with questions or concerns regarding the scheduled maintenance
project may contact Joe Tracey at (937) 642-4767.

Mandolin group entertains local crowd
Editor's note: The following review was written by Kay Liggett of the
Union County Community Concerts Association.
The Montana Mandolin Society was in town Tuesday night playing its magic
music to a fascinated, enthusiastic Union County Community Concert
audience. The players took us back 100 years to when mandolin orchestras
were all the rage.
Many women groups also were popular then, but what contributed to the
decline of them all was the arrival of the Jazz Age and Sachmo Armstrong and his horn.
The Montana Mandolin Society is a group of really talented musicians who
came from a variety of musical backgrounds, including jazz, classical,
bluegrass, rock 'n' roll and folk music. Two cellos, a bass violin, at
least six mandolins of different sound variations, guitar, banjo and an
absolutely fascinating, innovative, talented genius of a percussion
player. He made a washboard sound symphonic!
The group pulled at our hearts with the opening number, "My Funny
Valentine." It never sounded so sweet! The hammered dulcimer was exquisite.
An original composition, "Dance of the Birds," featured banjos using the
mating calls of sandhill cranes. It was beautifully inspiring, using the
sound of the plucked banjo lead in harmonizing, skillful, innovative music.
"Oh, Susanna" was played in a slow tempo as it might have been done in
1847 in the ice cream parlors popular then. We loved every nostalgic note.
"If you liked one, you'll love the next one!" said the lead
player-moderator and tore into a real toe-tapper, "Sweet Georgia Brown."
"Duck Waddle," another original composition made the audience smile,
laugh and cry. It was an unusual, lively, exquisite piece ... spellbinding.
Much of the music was original composition. This was an evening of rare
musical treats, blending sounds of the varying instruments.
The audience was treated to a unique evening of music that revived this
100-year-old magical art form. We were mesmerized the entire concert.
Awesome stuff! It was a real treat!
The Front Porch Players, a Marysville group of eight musicians, played
pre-concert folk music in the lobby. It included three lap dulcimers, a
hammered dulcimer, an auto-harp and an interesting new instrument, a
"thumb drum." They were fascinating instruments and exciting to dip into
the past to find them.
Catherine Ferguson organized and played with this group for many years.
Tuesday night, Dale Neil was lead player.
The final performance of the 2005-2006 concert series will be held May 9
and will feature Quartetto Gelato. The foursome will present a program
filled with traditional masterworks from around the world presented in a
relaxed, free approach.

Mill Valley parents probe kindergarten plan
By KARLYN BYERS
The third of four public meetings held to discuss kindergarten
scheduling changes in the Marysville School System was held Monday night
at Mill Valley Elementary. The final meeting will be held tonight at
Raymond Elementary at 6 p.m.
More than 50 people attended, gathering in the Mill Valley gymnasium.
Also attending were various Marysville School District personnel,
including building principal Greg Casto, superintendent Larry Zimmerman,
curriculum specialist Carla Steele, Digital Academy assistant director
and school district spokesman Tony Eufinger and several kindergarten teachers.
School district personnel have been looking for ways to incorporate more
instructional and socialization time in the kindergartners' school days
for several years. The all-day, alternating days (ADAD) model under
consideration would have one group of kindergarten pupils attending
school on Mondays and Thursdays, while the second group would attend on
Tuesdays and Fridays. Wednesday would be the "swing" day for both groups.
The change will add 30 percent more time for kindergartners to attend
school and save the district roughly $160,000 a year.
"Honestly, if I were moving into this for financial reasons (alone), it
would be a done deal," Zimmerman said.
But, he added, instructional time and the enhancement of socialization
opportunities sweeten the pot. "From the seat I'm sitting in trying to balance educational issues and
balance budget issues, it's a pretty easy decision."
Especially, Zimmerman added, when he anticipates $3 a gallon fuel this fall.
Several parents in attendance questioned the effect of additional
classroom time on the boy kindergarten students. Boys are "squirmier"
than girls, according to the parents, and being still for extended
periods of time might be too much of a challenge.
Not all that extra time will be instructional time, Steele said. Days
will include recess, art, physical education, music and snacks.
"Our concern is building that whole rounded child," she said.
Parents Alexis Zacharias and Denise Kouri spoke in favor of all day,
alternating days. Corey said she had two sons who went through the
Marysville School System. One attended kindergarten all day, every other
day in another school district and her younger son attended half days in Marysville.
"We've experienced both and it's been good for our family," Kouri said.
Zacharias said she felt additional instructional and socialization time
would help children develop self-confidence.
Another parent who identified herself as an assistant high school
principal in Dublin, said she was "thrilled that Marysville is looking at this option."
She said she had chosen to live in Marysville because of the decisions
the school district makes.
"Children grow up so fast. Why do we want to make them grow up faster?"
questioned Camy Cox after the meeting.
Cox and her husband, Jared, who also was in attendance, are the parents
of a daughter who will be starting kindergarten in the fall and a
younger son. Camy Cox also questioned the length of the school day,
which Zimmerman previously said will be extended by 15 minutes to
accommodate bus route changes.
"It will be time to go to bed shortly after they get home," Camy Cox said.
Brian Kennedy said he knows his son will adjust to the changes in the
kindergarten day. But the issue facing the school district does not
require "a one size fits all" approach.
Zimmerman said he will recommend the all-day, every other day option to
school board members at Monday's 6 p.m. board meeting.
The changes will go into effect for the 2006-2007 school year if approved by the board.

Hoffman to step down as president  of Richwood Bank
From J-T staff reports:
Nancy Hoffman will step down as president of the Richwood Banking Co. at
the end of the year. The announcement was made by her at the 19th annual
meeting of the bank shareholders held Monday evening at LaScala
Restaurant in Dublin.
In an emotional address to the group, she said she wished to spend more
time with her family, but will continue to work parttime for the bank.
Her son, Chad Hoffman, has been approved by the bank board to replace
her as of Jan. 1, 2007.
She became president in 1994 after the sudden death of her brother, Dan
Kyle, who had held that position for 17 years. Their father, Kenny Kyle,
had been president for 23 years prior to his son.
Prior to becoming president, Ms. Hoffman worked for the bank for 20
years in various positions. Her son joined the bank in 1994 after
graduating from Ohio Northern University where he majored in finance. He
is also a certified public accountant.
During Ms. Hoffman's tenure as president, the Richwood Bank has risen to
become the largest depository bank in Union County and today has $172
million in assets with four banking locations in Richwood, Marysville,
Plain City and LaRue.
In his comments to the stockholders, Chad Hoffman reiterated what his
mother had said earlier about the goal of the bank - to continue its
growth and remain an independent financial institution.
Earlier in the evening, three directors were re-elected. They are Dan
Anderson, Kyle Stofcheck and Richard A. Johnston. Remaining members of
the board are David R. Boerger, William N. Marsh, William L. Parrott,
Homer R. Viers and John J. Wiley.
Ms. Hoffman reported to the stockholders that each bank share had
increased from $68.44 per share last year to $70.18 per share today.
Each branch manager gave a report on activities at their banking
operation. Chad Hoffman also announced a new payroll service called
Richwood Payroll Management Services, Inc., which the bank is now
offering. It not only includes payroll processing, but also preparation and reporting.
The Richwood Bank is in its 139th year of operation, having been founded in 1867.

Richwood to go after delinquent taxpayer
By CHAD WILLIAMSON
Some residents of Richwood owe the village money and council says it's
time to collect. Village financial officer Don Jolliff said at Monday's council meeting
that more than $34,000 in income taxes are owed by residents who refuse
to pay. Jolliff added that the total continues to climb by thousands of
dollars each year.
Jolliff said the Regional Income Tax Authority (RITA) is willing to
pursue the violators to collect the debts, but it will take 25 percent
of the money collected. RITA is currently in charge of collecting the
village income tax.
Council member Jim Thompson appeared to support the idea of allowing
RITA to collect the money, noting that the village would at least get 75
percent of money, as opposed to none of it.
"What we're doing now is not working," he said.
But other council members seemed to balk at the idea of giving up 25
percent of the  money it is owed. Council member Peg Wiley asked why the
village should pay RITA, when it could pursue the debtors itself.
Village solicitor Rick Rodger said the village could go after the
delinquent taxpayers in small claims court. He said representatives of
RITA would use the same process.
Rodger added that the small claims court process is time consuming.
But some members of council wanted to help speed up the process by
making the names of those who owe public.
Wiley made a motion to not only allow Roger to pursue the matter in
small claims court, but also to run an add in local newspapers naming
those who are delinquent on their taxes. The issue passed 5-0, as one
seat remains vacant after Jim Ford stepped off council.
Union County Commissioner Tom McCarthy was also on hand at the meeting
to discuss a grant. The village faces a time crunch in completing the Ottawa Storm Sewer
Project. The $400,000 project is funded by a $100,000 Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) and $300,000 in Ohio Public Works
Commission (OPWC) money.
McCarthy explained that the CDBG program is a federal grant program
which is overseen by the county using federal guidelines. Because the
grants follow an annual funding cycle, the storm sewer project must be
finished in the 2006 calendar year or the village loses the money.
Complicating matters is the fact that the OPWC money is not slated to be
released until July. The village has authorized the engineering plans
for the project to be drawn, but McCarthy urged that if construction
problems delay the program the CDBG money could be lost.
In fact, McCarthy said the commissioners have been told by officials of
the CDBG program to redirect Richwood's money to another project. The
commissioners refused.
"We're taking a risk because we want to get your project done," McCarthy said.
In other business, council:
.Voted 5-0 to approve a $7,648 bill to Bob's Electrical Service of
Kenton for work performed in 2004.
.Learned of a request from Wills Construction for two building permits
for the area of the old Elementary School off Ottawa Street. Council and
mayor Bill Nibert had some concerns based on an agreement for a previous
construction project which has not been completed.
.Learned that a lift station in the area of Ottawa Street may need
upgrades. A pump in the lift station has already broken down and
requires more than $2,000 in repairs.
.Learned from Jolliff that the village crews are in need of a one-ton
dump as the frame is rusting through on the old one. Apparently the gas
tank fell from the vehicle as it was traveling down a village street recently.
.Approved a $2 per hour pay increase for acting village administrator
Lin Hensley. The increase will be retroactive to the date he assumed the duties.
.Learned from council member George Showalter that the village is
seeking bids for roofing work on the shelter houses at the village park.
The bid would be for labor only.
.Heard an update on village police issues from chief Rick Asher.
.Heard a complaint about speeding motorists on George Street.
.Set village cleanup day for May 20.

Milford Center seeks funding for sidewalks, master plan
By CINDY BRAKE
New sidewalks, street signs and a comprehensive master plan may soon be
in the future for the village of Milford Center.
During Monday's regular council meeting, five of the six council members
discussed applying for a Community Development Block Grant that would
remove and replace sidewalks along Mill Street between the traffic light
and Reed Street. Village engineer Gary Silcott estimated the cost at
$50,000. Council unanimously voted to have Silcott complete an
application with the village contributing 10 percent of the grant.
Silcott was also directed to complete an application for $9,000 in CDBG
funds to be used for a comprehensive master plan.
Council members present at the meeting were Ron Payne, Aimee Robles,
Tony Smith, Josh Combs and Jeff Parren. Chris Burger was not present.
Council also authorized Parren to proceed with plans to purchase 41
street signs. The resolution stipulates Parren can spend up to $1,000
for the signs and is to seek contributions from the Milford Center Lions Club.
"We need to do this," councilman Payne said. He pointed out that it
difficult to give someone directions when there are no signs marking the streets.
Waiving second and third reading, council unanimously passed a
resolution to accept procedures for grievance and sexual harassment
complaints concerning village employees. The procedures are required by
an insurance underwriter, explained mayor Bob Mitchell.
Council discussed the cost and need of installing Internet services to
the village hall. No action was taken.
Water issues were discussed at length, but with Burger absent there were
few answers. Burger was to investigate a matter concerning a resident
who replaced his furnace after his basement was flooded. The property
owner said the water meter had broken loose. The water and sewer
committee had not met since the last council meeting, Smith said.
Sharing second-hand information, Combs said it appears that the village
is not liable for the damage because the furnace had a faulty heat
exchanger. Mitchell said the meter was installed in December 2004 and
broke in November 2005. Smith questioned if the meter had any warranty.
Payne suggested sending a letter to the property owner. Mitchell said it
was a matter for the committee to deal with first.
Property owner Kimberly Wilhelm walked into the meeting in the middle of
the discussion with her own water concerns.
Wilhelm explained that she owns a rental property at 169 N. Mill St. and
that the water had been shut off. She said she had not received a past
due notice, even though all bills go to her home which is outside the
village. The village administrator acknowledged that a notice was placed
at the Mill Street address and not sent to the billing address. Wilhelm
questioned why she was responsible for a shut off fee when she had never
received notice. Payne said a similar issue recently occurred concerning another
property. He suggested that the water and sewer committee needs to look
into the procedural problem. Payne, with consent of other council
members, suggested Wilhelm pay the amount due less the $50 shut off fee.
The administrator was directed to turn the water back on.
In other business:
Yard sale day is May 13 and will include live music at the park beginning at 10 a.m.
Clean-up day is May 20. Payne said a state auditor seminar he attended March 31 was "extremely
helpful." He attended seminars on understanding how to read financial
statements, FEMA grants and building a Website. Payne recommended that
when the village has a new and permanent clerk that it would be a good
idea to send them for training.
Silcott said he would check into the cost of a cast iron curb box.
Trucks are persistently running over a culvert at Mill and Center
streets, the village administrator said.
Parren will contact Dayton Power and Light about light problems in certain locations.

Marysville Public Library receives $13,000 LSTA Grant
From J-T staff reports:
Marysville Public Library is the recipient of a recent grant from the State Library of Ohio.
The $13,602 Library Services and Technology Act grant will fund an
instructional computer class program. LSTA funds will be used to
purchase laptop computers and classes will be developed for staff and
patrons, with a particular emphasis on classes for seniors, new computer
users and teens. Marysville's grant will expire Aug. 31.
LSTA was enacted on Sept. 30, 1996, and enables public, school, academic
and special libraries to apply for federal library funds. The Institute
of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is the federal agency that fosters
innovation, leadership and lifetime learning through the support of
museum and library programs. IMLS provides LSTA funds each year to the
State Library of Ohio.
The State Library Board approved $142,598 for nine LSTA mini grants at
its March 30 meeting. Awards ranged from $4,290 to $23,999. Grants were
approved for five school districts, three public libraries and one academic library.
Proposals were reviewed by teams of librarians throughout the state,
representing all types of libraries. The review teams recommended those
proposals they felt met the primary intention of having a broad-based
focus and best met the needs of the individual library communities.
Recommended proposals were taken to the State Library board for funding.
A financial match of 25 percent of the total project cost was required
by the requesting institution.
Under federal legislation, LSTA has two major focuses: technology,
including electronic linkages of resources and automation; and services
to the under served. Based on this, the State Library offered grants in
four categories: innovative technology, including resource sharing;
staff development and training; services to targeted populations; and services to youth.
LSTA and the State Library encourage applications that demonstrate
partnering between public and school libraries and other community organizations.
More information about LSTA may be obtained by calling Missy Lodge,
head, Library Programs and Development, State Library of Ohio, at (800) 686-1532.

Health Dept. urges healthier community
From J-T staff reports:
The Union County Health Department joined hundreds of partner
organizations recently to explore ways that Americans can build
healthier communities and raise healthier kids.
The cooperative effort was part of a week-long observance of National
Public Health Week, April 3-9. Communities across the country considered
how buildings, roads, sidewalks and neighborhood design are affecting
the health of children.
For example, children who live close enough to school to walk often do
not because they have no sidewalks to walk on. Air pollution has
contributed to higher rates of childhood asthma, and the lack of access
to fresh foods and avenues for activity in some neighborhoods has
contributed to rising rates of childhood obesity.
"The manmade environment we live in has a significant impact on our
health," said Jennifer Thrush, Union County Health Department health
educator. "For example, we can encourage residents to be physically
active, but if the actual structures for activity, such as safe
sidewalks, parks and community centers, aren't built, residents can be
discouraged from being active."
Villages and townships across Union County are taking steps to improve
or build structures that can be used to improve health. For example,
Marysville, Richwood and Milford Center are taking steps to create
walking trails within their communities. Marysville, Richwood and Plain
City also have large parks that promote sports, and recreational and leisure activities.
The next step, as directed by National Public Health Week, is
determining to make these amenities a part of the community culture.
Creating this culture requires the cooperation of community members,
elected officials, and community organizations.
For more information on National Public Health Week, contact the Union
County Health Department at (937) 642-2053 or visit www.nphw.org

Will anyone save a piece of Marysville history?
Former medical office of Dr. Malcolm MacIvor must be moved by the end of the month
By CINDY BRAKE
A piece of Marysville's past is free for the taking.
The former Court Street medical office of Dr. Malcolm MacIvor must be
moved by the end of the month and the building's owner, Fifth Third
Bank, is offering it to anyone that wants to move it at their own
expense. Qualified takers must prove they have a licensed contractor who
does that kind of work and liability insurance.
"If people want to see the building saved they are more than welcome to
move the building at their own expense to another location," said Ron
Jones, senior real estate manager for Fifth Third Bank.
The bank is planning to construct a drive-through facility and add more
parking. Jones said the bank's investment is meant to better serve its
customers. The new structures will mimic the main bank in color, style and materials.
The city's architectural review board approved the bank's plans in
December after acknowledging that the cost of upgrading was too much.
The bank estimated that it would need monthly rent of $1,500 to cover
purchase and improvements for the 900 square foot structure. Current
rentals are going for $425 a month. Improvements necessary to upgrade
the existing residence to a commercial building were estimated at
$127,800. The bank paid $96,000 for the building.
The little brown house that once was white with green shutters has quite
a history and is believed to date back to the Civil War. It has also
been moved twice before.
Local historian Bob Parrott said that the building was the home of Alvin
Thompson in the 1870s and located on Fifth Street where Jeff Wilson's
Insurance building is today.
"Thompson was a Civil War veteran who was appointed as the postmaster of
Marysville by President Andrew Johnson in 1867," Parrott wrote in an
e-mail. "In 1874, Thompson built a brick business block next to his home
for the post office. That building is where Modern Finance is located
today. In 1876, Thompson began plans to build a larger business block on
the corner of Fifth and Court Street (Jeff Wilson's office). Before the
new post office could be built, Thompson moved his home to the back of
his lot facing Court Street. This was done in April of 1876. His new
business block was completed later that year."
After the home was moved, it was a used as a residence for a period.
Parrott is uncertain when it became a business, however Dr. Angus
MacIvor opened an office in the old Thompson residence on Court Street
in 1909. He ran his practice until 1956 from that location with his two
sons joining him. Robert J. MacIvor was an insurance agent and for a
time had his business in one of the rooms. Malcolm joined his father in
the medical practice and continued the practice there until his death in
2002. The building was also the county coroner's office for more than 40 years.
Parrott said two things remind him of the MacIvor's long tradition of serving the public.
"Malcolm continued to have his father's 'shingle' hanging out front of
the office just as it had since 1909 and second, when the bank building
was built and they needed an exit for the parking lot, they got Dr.
Malcolm MacIvor to agree to move his office several feet north on Court
Street. Even though the building was moved to a different location, Dr.
MacIvor refused to use any other address but the one he and his father
always had '110 N. Court St."
In addition to his father and grandfather's medical practices, John
MacIvor said the building also was the office for four other doctors -
Dr. Curl, Dr. Rodebaugh, Dr. C. White who possibly shared it for a time
with his son who was a dentist and Dr. C.D. Mills.
John MacIvor and his brother, Duncan, had hoped to place a memorial
plaque on a wall in the waiting room to immortalize all of the
physicians who practiced at that location throughout Union County
history. In fact, that was part of the contract when they sold the building in 2003.
"The purpose of this memorial is not so much to immortalize these fine
physicians since that would slight many other notable physicians
practicing throughout Union County History. Neither is it to breathe new
life into yet another old building in downtown Marysville. It is rather
meant to draw the reader into reflection on a simpler time perhaps best
evoked in certain Norman Rockwell paintings, a time before managed care
and health insurance, when house calls were the norm, the payment might
be garden produce, and friendly conversation and a considerate bedside
manner were perhaps the best medicine that could be offered."
John MacIvor said his memories of the office are vivid.
"We attended the Presbyterian Church and every Sunday after church there
would be a gang of folks waiting outside the office to see Dad. As was
his custom he would attend to them all even though these weren't 'office
hours.' After this he would make a round at the hospital and make
several house calls. Dad never really knew a day off and for him that was fine.
"As a boy whenever I went into the office my brother and I would head
back to Dad's lab and play with the Bunsen burner or the dry ice. My
sister Peggy would sift through the box of itty-bitties which were
little rubber animals passed out to child patients as a reward. She
would collect the ones she didn't already have. It was always a luxury
in case of illness or injury that we kids had access to the back door. A
nurse or Hope would let us in and Dad would fit us in between patients.
How we miss that. "Because of crushing estate debts including estate tax, income tax and
nearly $500,000 bequeathed to different charities, I was forced to sell
the office in the spring of 2003 with much regret. It became a
sacrificial lamb to help pay these debts. My hope was that the office
would continue to exist but under the circumstances at the time my hand
was forced. I had to settle my father's estate. No one is more
sentimental about this than I am, but sentiment can be expensive. I
don't blame Bruce Limes for selling the office lot to the bank. It's
difficult to keep an investment property that you can't make money on."

Suspect indicted in local child pornography case
From J-T staff reports:
After a child porn film was discovered on an American military base
computer in Iraq, an investigation led to a Union County suspect. That
man was indicted on Friday.
The Union County Common Pleas Court filed 11 charges against Dwight E.
Brown, 41, of 13664 U.S. 36 for his involvement in the child pornography
allegedly found in Iraq.
Brown is charged with six second-degree felony charges of pandering
sexually oriented matter involving a minor; two fifth-degree felony
possessing criminal tools charges, one third-degree felony gross sexual
imposition charge and two first-degree felony rape charges (with a
specification of naming Brown a Sexually Violent Predator).
Union County Sheriff Rocky Nelson reported that on March 30, detectives
executed a search warrant at Brown's home and found evidence to make the arrest.
Nelson said that the child pornography material seized during the search
"could have far reaching affects outside of Union County and perhaps the
State of Ohio." Court files state that on or about Feb. 1, 2005 through until Feb. 28,
2005 in Union County, Brown created pornographic materials that showed a
minor "participating or engaging in sexual activity."
To date, no information has been released regarding the specific content
investigators found on the film.
Evidence leading to Brown was discovered in a unique way, according to
local officials. Military personnel stationed in Iraq reportedly discovered a
serviceman's computer which contained pornographic material depicting
minors, or children, involved in sexual activity. The computer was
seized and an investigation in the United States revealed the film as
originating in Union County.
The film was allegedly created at Brown's home in Marysville, according
to  Union County Sheriff's Lt. Jamie Patton. Further investigation
revealed that Brown was the male subject depicted in the film.
Sheriff's investigators have not commented on how they know the person
in the film was Brown, or how the investigation led them to Brown's Marysville home.
Patton said this information could not be released at this time, but
that it will probably be revealed when the case goes before a Union County jury.
The Union County Sheriff's Office was assisted in the investigation by
Union County Prosecutor David Phillips and his staff, which will be
working with law enforcement to present the case.

Montana Mandolin Society to perform at Community Concert
From J-T staff reports:
The next featured act in the 2005-2006 Community Concert series will be
the nine-member string ensemble, the Montana Mandolin Society.
The group will appear Tuesday, April 11, at 7:30 p.m. at the Marysville
High School auditorium, 800 Amrine Mill Road.
 The Society was formed in 1999, after being inspired by the discovery
of an old photograph dating from 1902 of the 19-member Bozeman Mandolin
and Guitar Club. Under the direction of mandolin and banjo player Dennis
White, it has developed into one of the main mandolin ensembles in the USA.
The Society has performed at the John F. Kennedy Center for the
Performing Arts and appeared in numerous concerts throughout the United
States. It also performed during a two-week tour of Japan, playing the
Kanto Mandolin Festival in Tokyo and the Kumonoto Sister City
Celebration in Kumonoto. The group has served as host of the 2001
Classical Mandolin Society Convention, was featured in an interview on
NPR's All Things Considered and has released three CD recordings
At the turn of the last century, the mandolin was at its peak of
popularity, and mandolin clubs and orchestras were a common phenomenon
in the United States and in Europe. The Montana Mandolin Society is an
organization of skilled musicians dedicated to preserving and reviving
this historic genre of gentle, blissful music.
The Mandolin Society's show is more than a mandolin orchestra concert.
Also included in the group are guitars, banjo, double bass, hammer
dulcimer, violins, cello and percussion, with many members switching
instruments or trading with each other.
Its repertoire includes tunes by the Baroque-era Irish harper Turlough
O'Carolan, early 1900s jazz tunes, southern Appalachian fiddle tunes and
modern tunes in traditional style.
The group is comprised of cello player Jesse Ahmann, who is a music
major at Montana State University and who is now beginning to compose
his own pieces for the cello; classical guitarist Kris Ellingson, an
instructor at Montana State University; mandolin and mandola player
Kevin Fabozzi, a musician working in the resort town of Big Sky, Mont.,
and Bozeman; mandolin player Eddie Garcia, who also is a ski patrolman
and a river raft guide in Big Sky.; mandolin and mandola player Dennis
Hunt, who teaches music in a private academy near Bozeman; mandolin and
guitar player Eric Lange, who also works for the Waverly Manufacturing
Company making tuners for mandolins; classical guitarist Steve Marty, an
elementary school counselor; dulcimer and octave mandolin player Lindsay
Turnquist, who manages the computer department at the Montana State
University bookstore; 16-year-old mandolin and banjolin player Megan
Waldum, who also plays the flute, piano, classical guitar and fiddle;
White, who also directs the Mandolin Society and is a composer and music
instructor; violinist Sara Williams, who works for the Bozeman Symphony
and is a research librarian at Montana State; bass guitarist Craig Hall;
and business manager Lori Brockway. Tickets are available at the door.
The final Community Concert performance will be Quartetto Gelato, which
will appear May 9. The eclectic group fills its programs with a mix of
traditional masterworks, gypsy fiddling and folk songs from around the world.

Fifth Street rail crossing to close
By RYAN HORNS
The City of Marysville announced Thursday that it will be closing access
to the East Fifth Street railroad crossing off the Five Points intersection.
The issue of the "dangerous crossing" has received a lot of debate in
the past few years and now the closure of the road is expected to bring more.
Mayor Tom Kruse said that on April 14 access for cars to cross the
railroad on East Fifth Street will be eliminated. Barricades will be
installed on both sides of the crossing, preventing through traffic. To
access businesses on the west side of the railroad track, drivers will
now have to take Coleman's Crossing Boulevard. Access to businesses on
the eastside of the tracks will be from East Fifth Street.
Kruse said he recently saw two bus loads of children go across that
railroad crossing. He said if he is going to err by closing the road, he
is going to err on the side of safety.
"In my opinion it's a matter of 'when' something happens at that
crossing, not 'if,'" Kruse said.
He said a similar dangerous crossing situation was going on during his
first term as mayor, which involved the Cherry Street railroad crossing.
He said the state finally made changes to the crossing, but only after a
bad crash left a victim without a leg.
Kruse said that the city, PUCO, CSX and the Federal Rail Authority all
have responsibilities to make railroad crossings safer. But he said that
process can take years.
After the roadway is closed, he said, the city will continue working as
a partner with CSX and PUCO to facilitate a full safety upgrade of the
crossing. The upgrade includes installation of a lighted warning
crossing gate, assemblies, a road widening at the crossing and road
repair for concrete over the tracks.
Kruse said that the safety of the East Fifth Street crossing has become
an increasing concern to his administration over the past several years.
Both city council and he have heard from members of the public who have
similar concerns. One of the more vocal critics of the road closure has been Children,
Inc. Board of Trustees President Michelle Amrine-O'Connors, who feels
closing the roadway will only make traffic congestion worse on Delaware
Avenue. If that happens, medical or fire crews would have a longer
response time if an emergency occurred at one of the childrens schools
near YMCA. She has started a petition to keep the crossing open and to
make upgrades by working with the state and applying for grant funding.
"Conversations about these concerns, as well as past experiences with
both CSX and the PUCO have proven that an expedient upgrade to the
safety features for that crossing will not be possible. These entities
do not act quickly until an accident of significant magnitude has
occurred. City administration is not willing to jeopardize the lives of
Marysville residents while we wait for these bureaucracies to act. The
city is not in a financial position to pay for full upgrades, nor do we
have the legal standing to do so without authorization from the property
owners, CSX. The traffic volumes have increased on East Fifth with
shoppers trying to avoid Delaware Avenue traffic lights on their way to
the new stores in Coleman's Crossing. Coleman's Crossing Boulevard now
provides two alternate safe, high-volume street entrances into this
development for motorists," Kruse said in a media release.
Kruse said a slower response time for emergency crews going to the
children's schools or YMCA was not an issue. He said crews do not
utilize East Fifth Street anyway, so it would not affect the response time.
"I've had our emergency people review this whole issue," Kruse said.
"They are satisfied." Another criticism of the closure of East Fifth Street is that it will
affect businesses such as 84 Lumber, which are located on the road.
Kruse said that he does not believe the closure would affect those
businesses because the new Coleman's Crossing Boulevard is now providing
them with better access than East Fifth Street ever did. He added that a
business should not be more interested in the bottom line, than it is
with the safety of its customers.
Other critics of the closure have said that East Fifth Street has become
the quickest driving route to Home Depot or the YMCA, and to take that
away will lead to more traffic on Delaware Avenue.
Kruse said this argument isn't valid. Aside from Delaware Avenue,
drivers can also take Industrial Parkway. It takes less time to get to
Home Depot using that route than it would to take to use East Fifth Street.
Kruse added that whether the road is closed or not, drivers still have
to go through the Five-Points intersection.
"Our plan here is simply to close this crossing and review the traffic
situation in that part of town until we can come up with some plan for
smooth traffic flow," Kruse said.
He said the eventual re-opening of East Fifth Street may be a part of
that plan, but it depends on what can be found out in the review.

Marysville schools' land purchase OK'd
Bunsold property to house at least two new schools, provides room for growth
From J-T staff reports:
Marysville Schools officials finalized a 162-acre land purchase that
will pave the way for several future schools to be built while saving
taxpayers a significant amount of money, according to school officials.
Initial plans call for a second Marysville middle school and
intermediate school to be built on the site by 2008. But Superintendent
Larry Zimmerman said the site, located on Routes 4, U.S. 36 and Southard
Road, is large enough to house more schools if growth continues.
"We couldn't have found a better location or a better value for our
taxpayers," Zimmerman said in a news release this morning.
The property offers several key benefits, according to Zimmerman,
including the following:
.The $12,000 per acre sale price was significantly less expensive than
other available parcels;
.The property is central to future residential growth on Marysville's south side;
.Direct access to nearby city water, sewer and other utility lines;
.Close proximity to key transportation routes, including U.S. 33;
.The site is large enough to house future additional schools, including
a second high school;
.It provides several options for dividing the school district student
population between two intermediate and middle schools.
The school district closed on the Bunsold property Wednesday, after an
engineering survey and a traffic study determined the land is suitable
for school construction. Similar "due diligence" turned up expensive
obstacles to building new schools that prompted board of education
members to drop the district's first proposed building site, the MacIvor
property, on Marysville's west side.
Updated cost estimates show building the two new schools at one location
with shared facilities will save taxpayers more than the $1.3 million.
Architects are designing the new middle and intermediate schools with
common kitchens, libraries, heating and cooling operations,
transportation and athletic facilities. These "common areas" will cut
about 20,000 square feet from what would be required by building the two
schools on separate sites, and substantially reduce annual operating
costs. Architects are designing service roads, retention ponds, and
other facilities that would pave the way for and save money on future buildings.
"Our school district can't stop community growth, but we can plan for
it," Zimmerman said. "Frankly, I wish we didn't have to spend any money
on land or new buildings. But I would rather plan well and spend a
little money now to save a lot of money later. I am grateful to the
voters who supported the bond levies that will fund these projects."
The Marysville School District is growing by about 250 extra students
each year. Zimmerman said while growth and shrinking state funding for
local schools make the challenges facing his school district complex,
Marysville teachers and staff will continue to focus on addressing the
needs of individual students and operating as efficiently as possible.
"Our challenge is not only finding funds to build buildings to meet
growth in Marysville, but also how to generate funds to educate the
kids. We have done a great job so far thanks to great community support,
but many challenges exist. We want to continue to stay 'small' even as
we grow. Maintaining that 'small' town feel, where each student receives
individual attention, is our major goal - no matter how much the community grows."

Combined 9-1-1 services a step closer to reality
By RYAN HORNS
Law enforcement officials from all over Union County met Wednesday night
for one goal: To bring local 9-1-1 emergency services up to date.
The public hearing for the final 9-1-1 plan at the Union County
Veteran's Auditorium was another step in a process that is expected to
end with placing a levy before voters and combining emergency response
services into one county unit.
As Union County Commissioner Gary Lee explained, the levy is to make
sure that when someone in Union County dials 9-1-1, emergency squads
will have no obstacles. It is a service that needs public attention, he added.
Immediately after the public hearing, the 9-1-1 Planning Committee met
and unanimously recommended that the county commissioners increase the
current five-year, .5-mill levy to a five-year, .75-mill levy.
The measure will be placed before voters in the November general election.
Lee said the original 9-1-1 plan was created on April 30, 1987. That
levy paid for two public safety answering points, or dispatch centers,
located at the Union County Sheriff's Office and the Marysville Police Department.
The only problem is that the two points are located a couple blocks away
from each other, Marysville Mayor Tom Kruse said
"Right now we're vulnerable," Kruse said. "If one tornado comes through
town, we don't have 9-1-1 at all."
Lee said the current levy is set to expire on Jan. 1, 2007. It continues
to collect the same amount of millage as it did in 1987. Without a levy
update, the county's 9-1-1 system is going be operating at a deficit by as early as 2008.
Kruse said the best option was for the county and Marysville to
cooperate, the result being that Marysville's 9-1-1-dispatch center will
give up its powers to the county. It means Marysville will lose some
yearly funds that would have gone to its dispatch center, however, the
end result would be a stronger county emergency response system.
"It's money well spent," Kruse said.
Lee said the proposed system design has all emergency calls going to the
sheriff's dispatch center. The secondary backup will be located at the
Logan County Sheriff's Office in Bellefontaine.
By amending the county's 9-1-1 plan, Lee said, county officials will be
able to update the system from 1987. This means adding technology and
costs, such as wireless 9-1-1 and Internet phone system capabilities.
Lee said it was interesting to learn that three out of four emergency
callers dial 9-1-1 from their cell phones.
"With technology that has been added over the last few years, we've had
a lot of challenges with 9-1-1," he said.
All of this information has been discussed in prior meetings held last year and in February.
Lee told the emergency officials that the next step is to have the final
plan resolutions submitted to all Union County villages and townships for approval.
"I'm going to push for passage of it in Marysville," Kruse said.
He said he expects to place it on a city council agenda in the near future.
Jerome Township Trustee Ron Rhodes said that he is sensitive to taxpayers.
"But there are very few levies in the county that have been around for
20 years that haven't asked for a renewal," he said.
Within 60 days, Lee said, each political entity would need to approve or
disapprove the final plan.
Rhodes said that the next step is to explain to the public how necessary
the action is and why they should approve it in November.
The 9-1-1 Technical Advisory Committee which helped design the update
process is made up of Sheriff Rocky Nelson, Marysville Police Chief
Floyd Golden, Plain City Police Chief Steve Hilbert, Richwood Police
Chief Rick Asher, Ohio State Highway Patrol Lt. Marla Gaskill,
Marysville Fire Chief Gary Johnson, Jerome Fire Chief Scott Skeldon,
Allen Township Fire Chief Rodd Goddard, Northern Union County Fire Chief
Todd German, Union County EMA Director Randy Riffle, Sprint Public
Safety representative Nancy Serafino, Dover Township Trustee Barry
Moffett, Union County Sheriff's 9-1-1 Coordinator Anne Barr, sheriff's
Chief Deputy Tom Morgan and sheriff's Lt. Cindy McCreary.

Honda's new paint line begins operation
From J-T staff reports:
Honda unveiled a new $123 million Marysville Auto Plant paint line on
Thursday, supporting the company's commitment to a cleaner environment,
product quality and Ohio's economy.
Honda's capital investment in Ohio now tops $6.3 billion over the past
26 years as the 234,000-square-foot paint shop goes on line and as two
other major Ohio projects continue in the building phase: a $100 million
expansion of the Honda transmission plant in Russells Point and the $89
million expansion of the parts warehouse in Troy.
"This new paint facility, along with other investments in Ohio, is part
of a quality and value commitment to our customers," said John Adams,
executive vice president and general manager of manufacturing for Honda
of America Manufacturing, Inc.
The highly automated paint line incorporates the latest automotive
coating technologies to reduce emissions and take paint quality to
higher levels. It also will raise the plant's capability to build a
variety of motor vehicles as customer tastes range among cars and light trucks.
"Even though it is our oldest auto plant in America, the Marysville
plant is a key part of Honda's commitment to quality, efficiency and the
environment," plant manager Sam Harpest said.
Waterborne coatings will be used for the first time at the Marysville
plant, a technology pioneered at Honda's other Ohio auto plant near East
Liberty. In addition, coating efficiency and quality will be increased
with new paint technologies developed by Honda Engineering.
The new line consumes less energy overall than the line it replaces,
which is the original line from 1982 when Honda became the first
Japanese automaker to build a car in the United States. Innovations such
as solid-seam ovens, air recycling in painting booths and
high-efficiency motors allowed energy needs to fall.
"Our associates joined as a team on the very challenging task of
integrating the new paint operations into mass production," said Chris
White, paint department manager. "These associates stepped up. They
developed their own training on new processes and came up with new ideas
on safety and efficiency, which were put into practice."
Department associates spent many hours fine-tuning computer programs
that control paint application and training for new processes in the
paint department ? another example of Honda teamwork.
"At Honda, we are increasing our ability to build more models on each
assembly line," Adams said. "In the long run, this flexibility allows us
to launch products more efficiently and with less cost, and creates a
more stable working environment for our associates."
At Honda of America, both the Marysville Auto Plant and the East Liberty
Plant will add new vehicles this summer, while retaining production of
the vehicles they currently produce.
The Marysville Plant will add the all-new Acura RDX sport utility
vehicle to its lineup alongside the Accord, Accord Coupe and Acura TL.
At East Liberty, the Honda CR-V will be added to the line. The CR-V will
join the recently redesigned Civic sedan and the Element light truck.
The company also operates Honda Research Americas ? Ohio Center, near
Raymond, which is a major global engineering and design center for
Honda, the No. 1 producer of cars and light trucks in Ohio. Honda also
is the state's largest producer of motorcycles.
Honda employs more than 15,000 Ohioans and its North American plants
purchased more than $6.5 billion in parts from 150 Ohio suppliers last
year. North American operations spent more than $16 billion for parts
and materials from 600 suppliers in North America in 2005.

Triad ends wage freeze
By CORINNE BIX
The two-year wage freeze has ended for Triad teachers.
At Tuesday night's special board meeting, board members approved a 4
percent wage increase for the 2006-2007 school year and a 3 percent
increase for the 2007-2008 school year for Triad teachers.
The board also will pick up any insurance increase for the 2006-2007
school year and the teachers and board will split an increase for the
2007-2008 school year, said Superintendent Dan Kaffenbarger.
Lee Claypool, Triad Education Association president, said the entire
negotiation process with the board and administration was very cooperative.
"We've been fortunate that the association has worked so well with the
board," Claypool said. Claypool credited Doug Kitchen, district and high school media
specialist, and his leadership as chairman of the negotiations committee.
"There is a margin of disappointment among the teachers in that we were
not able to recoup losses from the two-year freeze," Claypool said.
"However, given lessening financial instability of the district the
teachers are appreciative of the cumulative 7 percent increase."
In addition, the board approved a masters plus 30 step increase to the salary schedule.
"The board gave credence to the professionalism of our vocation by
implementing this step increase," Claypool said.
She said that by providing this incentive, teachers will in turn be
encouraged to take continuing education classes. As better-informed
teachers they will in turn be better prepared to educate their students.
The board voted to have the resignation of Jack Stout rescinded as per his request.
Stout's resignation was approved at last month's board meeting.
Kaffenbarger said he is glad that Stout has decided to stay on.
"It's good for the district because he is a great teacher," Kaffenbarger said.
Stout, a high school social studies teacher, has taught for 30 years, 17
in the Triad district.
Connie Cohn was approved as payroll and benefits specialist for the
district with an initial contract from June 5 to July 31, and then a
two-year contract beginning in August.
Cohn will replace Martha Donohoe who submitted her resignation in
January for the purpose of retirement.
Cohn's annual compensation was set at $32,000. She previously worked for
Urbana City Schools in a similar position.
Lastly, the board approved a change on the 2007-2008 school calendar. It
changed Friday, March 21, 2008 from parent-teacher compensation days to
"X" day off and Friday, March 28, 2008 from "X" day off to
parent-teacher compensation day. The change was made due to Good Friday
being a school holiday for classified staff.
The next regular board meeting will be Monday, April 17 at 7 p.m. in the middle school library.

Pastor sentenced to a year in prison
 By RYAN HORNS
A Milford Center pastor will spend the next year in prison as a result
of an Internet sexual predator sting police held in November.
 Roy B. Burton, 55, of 25 W. State St. in Milford Center, was sentenced
Tuesday morning in Greene County Common Pleas Court.
According to the Green County Clerk of Courts office, Burton received a
12-month sentence for both felony counts. They were ruled to be served
concurrently, resulting in the one-year sentence.
In February the pastor pleaded no contest to one fifth-degree felony
charge of importuning and one fourth-degree felony charge of attempted
unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. He faced a possible 2 1/2 years prison sentence.
In Milford Center, resident Velma Stewart said Burton's jail time was the talk of the town.
"I think a lot of people saw it coming," Stewart said. "People don't
care for him because he does this in the name of God."
According to the Fairborn Police Department, Burton was arrested on Nov.
1 at 2:30 p.m. The police report states that over a five-day period
Burton "had engaged in chats with who he thought was a 15-year-old
female" on the Internet. The "girl" was actually an undercover Fairborn
detective trolling the Internet, looking for possible sexual predators.
"Mr. Burton did solicit sex from the teen and made arrangements to meet
for sexual activity," police reports state.
On the day of his arrest, Burton had traveled to Fairborn to meet with
the teen. He was followed and arrested without incident.
The Fairborn Police Department reported that its Internet Crimes Unit
has arrested 64 sexual offenders since October 2003.
Milford Center resident Virgil Vanover said he used to attend Burton's
services at the Victory Baptist Church on West State Street, until
Burton started preaching about how he was going onto Internet chat rooms.
"I left shortly after that," Vanover said.
He said that Burton then started trying to cover up his crime to local
residents by telling them he was on the Internet "trying to win them to
the Lord," or blaming the crime on other members of his family.
Vanover said that he is happy that Burton's crime is going to be known
around the county, because there are still those in Milford Center who
have no idea the pastor had been trying to set up sexual liaisons with
teenage girls over the Internet.
Stewart said that Burton has been the focus of previous scandals,
including almost losing his license after allegedly performing unlawful
marriages. The marriages were later declared legitimate.
"He always gets away with it," Stewart said. "This time he didn't."
Now she wants to know if Burton will still have his preacher's license in prison.
"His license needs to be taken away," she said.
This morning Fairborn Police Department detectives did not know if
Burton's pastor's license had been revoked.
The Greene County Clerk of Courts office reported that Burton has been
transported to a holding facility and from there will be taken to an
undecided regional jail to serve out his sentence.
A sexual crime classification hearing was held prior to the sentencing
at the Greene County Common Pleas Court. Burton was ruled to be a
sexually orientated offender and will have to register annually with the
Union County Sheriff's Office after his release.
Burton reportedly conducted the Victory Baptist church services from his
home on West State Street. A call to the church this morning was not
answered, aside from Burton's family answering machine. It is unknown if
the church has closed for services, or if a new pastor has been hired.

North Lewisburg council votes to increase rent for fire department
By CORINNE BIX
The North Lewisburg village council passed a rent increase for the
Northeast Champaign County Fire District (NECCFD) Tuesday evening.
Since 1990, the NECCFD, which operates out of the village's municipal
building, has paid $500 a month to the village for use/and or access to
5,286 square feet of space. This includes rental of the garage area,
office space, restrooms and use of community room/kitchen facilities.
The increase will more than double the NECCFD's annual rent from $6,000
per year to $12,500, retroactive to Jan. 1, when the last contract
expired. Council voted to gradually increase the rent over the next four
years to a $25,000 annual rent by 2009.
At $25,000 a year the NECCFD will be paying about $5 per square foot of
space used. First said the $5 per square foot rate is in line with
standard rental rates of business properties.
There have been no rent increases since 1990. Council has been
discussing the issue of a rent increase for the past year. It also has
discussed the issue openly with the NECCFD fire board via its regular monthly meetings.
The NEECFD is a taxing entity subdivision that serves North Lewisburg,
Woodstock, and Rush and Wayne townships.
Gary Silcott, village engineer with R.D. Zande and Associates, reported
on the wastewater treatment plant. Open bidding on the project will
begin next week. Construction is still slated for late spring.
Council approved the final resolution to authorize construction on the
plant. Over the past year it has passed similar resolutions to authorize
the initial design and planning of the project.
Silcott also reported on a video study that recorded the runoff of water
into the village's sanitary sewer collector. The study showed that
considerable amounts of ground water and surface water are coming from
the Meadows mobile home park.
"There is a deficiency in their facility that is affecting your waste
water treatment plant," Silcott explained.
The Meadows is privately owned.
Water meter installation will begin this month. Homeowners should expect
to be without water for about an hour during the installation of each
water meter. Silcott explained that residents would be given notice to
move shrubs and plants if excavation interferes with landscaping.
Tim Maxhimer, parks and recreation, reported that progress is being made
on a planned concession stand.
Maxhimer said 85 percent of materials are on site and the stand should
be completed within the next 45 days.
The council heard the first reading of ordinance No. 239, which
restricts the parking of trailers, RVs and certain motor vehicles on
streets, right-of-ways, public property, roads and highways.
The ordinance gives vehicle owners a 24-hour time limit by which they
can park for the loading of vehicles etc.
The ordinance's purpose is to facilitate the navigation of narrow
streets by the village street department.
The next regular council meeting will be May 2 at 7:30 p.m.
In other news, council:
.Passed a resolution which allows the village administrator to serve on
the village health district board and emergency management board in the
absence of the mayor.
.Discussed spring cleanup which will be held May 2 to 9.
.Updated recycling collection drives to begin in the next several months.
.Noted the Friends Church marker dedication on July 29 at 11 a.m. at the library.
.Voted to fog for mosquitoes this summer at a cost of $2,400-$2,500.
.Heard Deputy Glenn Kemp give the Champaign County Sheriff's report for
the month of March for the village: There were 19 traffic citations
issues, seven warnings issued for traffic violations, 15 incident
reports, 21 cases of assistance given to citizens, six arrests made, 11
civil and criminal papers served, 44 follow-up investigations completed,
one open door, two instances of juvenile contacts, one civic activity
completed and one auto accident report.

Local churches plan Holy Week activities
From J-T staff reports:
A one-hour ecumenical worship service sponsored by the Marysville Area
Ministerial Association (MAMA) will be held at noon April 14, Good
Friday at First Congregational United Church of Christ, 124 W. Sixth St.
Guest speaker will be the Rev. Barry Scott, new minister at Trinity
Lutheran Church. A freewill offering will be collected, with donations
going to the Clothes Closet.
First Congregational will host an Easter egg hunt Saturday, April 15, as
part of its Holy Week activities. The Easter egg hunt will be held at
McCarthy Park at 11 a.m., along with a cookout. Activities are free and
include hot dogs, chips and beverages. Special guest will be the Easter
bunny. For reservations, call 642-1611.
Other activities at First Congregational include a worship service with
palm processional on Palm Sunday, April 9, at 10:30 a.m., a Maundy
Thursday worship service on April 13 at 6:30 p.m., an Easter sunrise
service at Sean Doebert Memorial Shelter, Legion Park at 6:58 p.m.,
Easter breakfast in the fellowship hall at 9:30 a.m., and Easter worship
at 10:30 a.m. The Rev. Richard Flynn's message will be "Total Help for Total Need."
Also hosting an Easter egg hunt will be Marysville Grace Church. The
hunt will be held April 15 at 11 a.m. at Eljer Park. It is open to children to age 12.
Marysville Grace Church will hold its Palm Sunday service at 10 a.m.
Sunday at Navin Elementary, 16265 County Home Road. Childcare and Sunday
school will be offered through the eighth grade.
Its Easter Sunday service will be held April 16 at 10 a.m. at Navin.
Senior Pastor Clancy Cruise will officiate. Childcare and Sunday school
will be available for children to age 12.
Allen Center Baptist Church, 17124 Allen Center Pottersburg Road, will
begin Easter Sunday, April 16, with a sunrise service at 7:30 a.m. It
will be followed by breakfast at 8:15 a.m., an Easter egg hunt at 9 a.m.
and worship at 10 a.m.
Calvary Baptist Church, 17376 Route 347, will hold a Maundy Thursday
service with Communion at 7 p.m. A Good Friday service will be held at 7
p.m. Guest speaker will be the Rev. Howard Silverman from Beth Messiah
Congregation in Columbus, who will share the elements of the Jewish
Passover Meal and explain how they point to Jesus Christ.
Easter Sunday activities will include a sunrise service at 8:45 a.m.,
breakfast at 9:30 a.m., and an Easter celebration and baptism service at 10:45 a.m.
Christian Assembly Church, 1003 N. Maple St., will hold a Good Friday
Communion service at 7 p.m. April 14. Easter Sunday activities will
begin with a sunrise service at 6:30 a.m., followed by breakfast at 7:30
a.m. At 10:30 a.m., the choir will present the Easter musical "Amazing Grace."
 The Church of Christ in Christian Union, 23062 Bear Swamp Road, will
feature New Wine singers April 12 through Good Friday at 7 p.m. Dr.
Nelson Perdue will speak.
The Easter Sunday observance will begin at 7:30 a.m. with a sunrise
service. It will be followed by breakfast at 8:30 a.m., Sunday school at
9:30 a.m., and worship at 10:30 a.m. A 6 p.m. service also will be held.
The Palm Sunday service at First English Lutheran Church, 687 London
Ave., will be held at 10:30 a.m. A Maundy Thursday service with
Communion will be held at 7:30 p.m. The message will be "Holy Communion,
the Lord's Unifying Gift."
A Good Friday Tenebrae "Shadows" service will be held at 7:30 p.m. The
sermon title will be "The Message About the Cross." An Easter breakfast
prepared by the youth group will be served Easter Sunday from 8:30 to
9:30 a.m. It will be followed by an Easter Festival Service with Holy
Communion at 10:30 a.m. The sermon will be "Easter, When the End is Not the End."
 First Presbyterian Church, 210 W. Fifth St., will hold Maundy Thursday
Communion April 13 at 7 p.m. A potluck will be held at 6 p.m.
Marysville Christian Church, 17000 Waldo Road, will observe Resurrection
Sunday April 16. Inspiring and worshipful song, drama, video and
teaching God's Word will be part of the 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services.
The message will be "Bridging the Gap."
Nursery care will be offered during the first service; nursery through
preschool will be offered during the second service. Kindergarten
through fifth grades also will meet during the second service.
"Carrying Your Burdens" will be the title of the Palm Sunday sermon at
Marysville First United Methodist Church, 207 S. Court St. It will be
based on Luke 13:10-17.
A Maundy Thursday service will be held April 13 at 7 p.m. "Can You See
the Cross?" will be the title of the message. A Good Friday Tenebrae
service will be held April 14 at 7 p.m. The Chancel Choir will perform.
Easter services will be offered at 7, 8:20, 9:30, 10:45 and 11 a.m. "The
Hope of the Easter," will be the message title. It will be based on Luke 24:1-12.
Ostrander Presbyterian and Ostrander United Methodist churches will hold
combined Holy Week services beginning Maundy Thursday, April 13, at 7
p.m. with Communion at Ostrander Presbyterian. A Good Friday service
will follow April 14 at 7 p.m. at Ostrander United Methodist.
Easter sunrise service will be held April 16, at 7:30 a.m. at Ostrander
Presbyterian Church. It will be followed by breakfast. The Presbyterian
Church also will host an Easter worship service at 10:30 a.m.
The Richwood First Baptist Church, adult choir will present "The Shadow
of the Cross," a musical contemporary Tenebrae service, on Maundy
Thursday, April 13, at 7 p.m. The "service of darkness," or Tenebrae
(Latin for "darkness"), dates back to the fourth century. Traditionally
observed during Holy Week, the candlelight service and Communion focuses
on the final hours of Jesus' life and crucifixion. The church is located
at 101 E. Ottawa St. in Richwood.
St. John's Lutheran, 12809 Route 736, will hold traditional worship
services at 8 and 10:30 a.m. Palm Sunday. No Communion will be offered.
The contemporary service at 10:30 a.m. will include Communion.
Maundy Thursday worship services will be held April 13 at 2 and 7:30
p.m. On Good Friday, April 14, the movie "The Passion of the Christ"
will be shown at 1 p.m.
Easter Sunday worship services will be held at 8 and 10:30 a.m. and will
include communion. Sunday school will be held at 9:15 a.m.
Trinity Chapel, Milford Center, will hold a Palm Sunday celebration
during the 10:30 a.m. service. "Maynard the Moocher" will be on hand to
tell children about Jesus, and an Easter egg hunt will be held. On April
12, a "Commemoration of Christ's Death" will be held at 7 p.m. It will
include a presentation of "The Passion of the Christ." Childcare will be
available. A celebration of Christ's resurrection will be held Easter Sunday at 10:30 a.m.
Trinity Lutheran Church, 311 E. Sixth St., will install the Rev. Barry
Scott on Palm Sunday in a special 2:30 p.m. service.
The Maundy Thursday drama, "Last Supper," will be presented April 13 at
6:30 p.m. Communion will be celebrated. A Good Friday Tenebrae service
of the shadows will be held April 14 at 6:30 p.m.
Easter Sunday services include 8 and 11 a.m. traditional worship and
9:45 a.m. contemporary worship.

A bit of history comes back to Jerome Twp.
Photos return to the walls of township meeting room
By CINDY BRAKE
Jerome Township's past is once more among the present.
More than 40 pictures of graduates from the former Jerome and New
California High Schools have returned to the township meeting room. The
photos are copies of images that were formerly found on the walls of the building.
Trustee Andrew Thomas said at Monday's regular meeting that Marie Faulk
and Carol Marshall were largely responsible for the return of the
photos. The pictures date back to 1890. The images had once covered the
walls until they were removed a couple years ago by the alumni
association. During an hour-long executive session the images provided
for much conversation as individuals roamed the room looking for
relatives pictured in the images. All seemed pleased to have the photos returned.
As promised, trustee Thomas said the township's Web site is up and
running. The address is JEROME-OH.GOV.
The Web site is updated regularly and includes a calendar of events, as
well as information concerning the elected officials, parks and
recreation, zoning, cemeteries and parks. Thomas said eventually board
minutes will be posted and events may be scheduled online. He added that
the cost of creating the Web site came in under budget.
In board action, trustees Thomas, Ron Rhodes and Robert Merkle
unanimously approved a purchase policy for employees and elected
officials. The policy sets a $150 limit for employee purchases and $500
limit for elected officials. One-time purchases exceeding the limit will
require the approval of two trustees.
The board also unanimously agreed to reduce the hours and remove the
title of road maintenance superintendent Jim Medvec. Medvec's weekly
hours were reduced to 24 and part-time employee Jerry Moore is to work
only at the direction of trustees. The board also voted to run an
advertisement for a part-time maintenance supervisor.
After consulting the Union County Prosecuting Attorney, the board
approved spending $1,000 of public funds for a paver at the Union County
Veterans Memorial. In addition, each trustee said they intend to
personally purchase a $50 paver.
During department reports, Fire Chief Scott Skeldon said he is seeking
several grants, including $550,000 in federal funds for a rescue
vehicle. He also reviewed various items in which he has been involved.
They include disaster preparedness training, culture diversity, water
issues, congressional fund-raising and Homeland Security funding. He
added that he plans to make the "Quick Clear Program" a priority and
Jerome Township a leader in auto accident scene safety.
In other business:
. A public hearing will be held April 17 at 7 p.m. to consider
recommended zoning changes for landscaping.
. Merkle said he is looking into the township's cell phone plan.
. Merkle suggested officials review the cemetery fees. He said he is
getting information from other cemeteries and suggested creating a
handbook. Merkle said he is also working on getting the sign at the
Pleasant Hill Cemetery corrected. He also said artificial flowers were
removed from the cemetery by township employees.
. Thomas suggested having community service workers pick up trash in
ditches. He also suggested sending a thank you to a resident who cleaned one ditch.
. Thomas said the township's calendar on the Web site is the master
calendar for baseball field scheduling.

Local agencies kick off Child Abuse Prevention Month
By CINDY BRAKE
Children placed pinwheels. Adults wore blue ribbons. Both are meant to
raise awareness about preventing child abuse and neglect.
County officials and employees, as well as students from Navin
Elementary gathered Monday at noon along the Fifth Street lawn of the
Union County Courthouse for a short ceremony to kick-off Child Abuse
Prevention Month. The more than 200 pinwheels placed in the lawn
represent a report of child abuse or neglect that occurred in Union
County during 2004, states a press release from the Union County
Department of Job and Family Services. The pinwheels will be placed on
the front lawn of North Union High School in Richwood on April 18.
"It happens here," said Union County Prosecuting Attorney David
Phillips, as he explained that the blue ribbons symbolize the bruised
and battered bodies of children.
Phillips said today in the United States three children under the age of
5 will die because of abuse, 510 will be physically assaulted and 270 sexually assaulted.
"That's just today. Tomorrow the horror starts all over," Phillips said.
He added that the abused typically become abusers.
Union County Juvenile/Probate Judge Charlotte Eufinger shared a personal
story about a close friend who was sexually abused as a child. Eufinger
said the woman now has a doctorate, successful career and family.
Joe Float, director of the Union County Department of Job and Family
Services, said prevention is the responsibility of individuals as well as the community.
Union County is spending nearly $1 million for residential placement of
children and another $1 million for administrative costs as the number
of investigations increase.
In 2003, the local agency had 362 investigations. In 2005, that number
increased to 472. And numbers in the first quarter of 2006,
investigations have topped the same time period of a year ago.
Investigations include matters of abuse, neglect, dependency, domestic
violence, mental health and retardation and behavior problems. In 2005
Union County investigated 66 claims of sexual abuse and 218 abuse and
neglect referrals. Besides increasing investigations, the agency is seeing more "chronic,
ongoing issues, "  Pat Williams with the Union County Department of Job
and Family Services said.
The cost of residential placement ranges from $250 to $350 a day and
placements are generally for a year or more, Williams said. She adds
most residential placements are for juvenile sexual offenders,
disruptive adoptions and the most severe mental health children.
"We're noticing more intense, complicated cases, more drug and alcohol
issues involving both kids and parents, more mental health issues."
Williams offers the following suggestions to help prevent child abuse and neglect:
For parents - listen to and talk with your child; set basic rules and
limits and be consistent as you use them; be a positive role model for
your child; when necessary, take time to cool down; monitor a child's
television time, videos, video games and Internet use; hug your child
and tell them that you love them; learn more about being a good parent
by reading a book or taking a class; hold, cuddle and talk to your baby;
make sure your baby is sleeping in their own crib on their back; express
your feelings in words, not violence; know your child's friends and know
where your child is at all times.
As a family - eat dinner together as often as possible; have family
discussions about safety, the dangers of smoking, drug and alcohol use
and making positive decisions; attend your child's school, music and
sports events; celebrate special occasions and even the small
accomplishments of your child; take a zero tolerance stand against
violence in your home; make sure your entire family uses car seats and
seat belts appropriately; never serve alcohol to underage individuals.
As a community member - Volunteer at a local child serving agency or
local school; become a foster parent; mentor a parent that is
struggling; join Big Brothers/Big Sisters or another mentoring program;
report suspected child abuse or neglect to the Union County Department
of Job and Family Services, (800) 248-2347 or 644-1010.
In addition to the pinwheels, displays about preventing child abuse are
located in area libraries and at the Union County Department of Job and
Family Services. A free raffle for family fun baskets and baby fun
baskets is also being held. To enter, individuals need to identify
something that helps prevent child abuse and neglect.

Teen leads lawmen on chase
From J-T staff reports:
A 19-year-old Marysville man led officers on a high-speed pursuit
through residential streets Sunday about 9 p.m.
Richard J. Michael Ryan was charged with failure to comply with the
order of a police officer which is a third-degree felony due to the
conditions, child endangerment, failure to obey a control device,
speeding, reckless operation, failure to maintain assured clear distance
and driving under suspension.
According to reports from the Union County Sheriff's Department, an
officer was patrolling Industrial Parkway near Fladt Road when he
clocked a silver Mustang car driving 92 mph. While attempting to stop
the vehicle, the report states the driver accelerated to 120 mph near Scottslawn Road.
The driver led cruisers through Marysville traveling on Columbus Avenue
to Fifth, Chestnut and Ninth streets, London and Milford Avenue to
Milcrest, Windsor and Southwood before returning to Milford Avenue and
Maple Street. The pursuit was called off at Fifth and Maple streets. The
vehicle was seen turning left onto Fourth Street.
The vehicle was reportedly traveling up to 60 miles an hour in
residential areas, ran through four red lights and seven stop signs and
almost struck a vehicle. Marysville police officers found the vehicle parked in the Arbors
Apartment Complex parking lot shortly after the pursuit was called off.
Ryan and three passengers were located in the area as well and he was arrested.

Kiwanis Club plans Random Acts of Kindness Week
Editor's note: The following information is supplied by Derric Brown.--
The Kiwanis Club of Marysville is once again sponsoring Random Acts of
Kindness Week from April 24-30.
The week-long movement encourages kind deeds and friendly acts among the
community. "We simply want to encourage the community to put some genuine thought
and effort in to being kind," said Derric Brown, Kiwanis Member and RAOK
chairman. "The potential for this week is great. A kind act given
quickly multiplies. If you do something positive for someone, they in
turn will either return the favor or pass on their goodwill to someone else.
"This is 'warm and fuzzy' stuff, but we need to make time for the warm
and fuzzy stuff every now and then," Brown continued.
The Kiwanis Club of Marysville encourages residents to be original in
their gestures. Some simple suggestions are allowing a shopper to check
out before you, opening doors for others, buying desserts for the table
next to you, calling an old friend, or saying "hello" to a passerby on
the street. One could also make a more concerted effort of making
someone's day by writing a letter of thanks to local firemen or
policeman, visiting the elderly, or volunteering for the city or a school, or church.
The Kiwanis Club of Marysville will also award its annual "Love Thy
Neighbor" awards. These awards are presented to an adult and child who
have give selflessly and in whom the qualities of kindness and respect are best reflected.
Nominations must be submitted to the Kiwanis Club of Marysville, P.O.
box 340, Marysville 43040, or e-mailed to Derric Brown at
mannasmithfh@rrohio.com. Submissions should tell why the individual is
being nominated and include the submitter's name, address, and phone
number along with the same information for the individual being
nominated. Nominations must be received by April 19.
The "Love Thy Neighbor" awards will be presented at the April 24 Kiwanis
Club of Marysville noon meeting.
Additional information about Random Acts of Kindness Week and the
Kiwanis Club of Marysville may be obtained by calling Brown at 642-1751
or by e-mailing questions to the above mentioned address

From the cab to the pulpit
Trinity Lutheran's new pastor found calling after running a trucking business
By KARLYN BYERS
From trucking terminal to the pulpit is a good fit for new Trinity
Lutheran pastor Barry Scott.
The former Chicago resident will be officially installed at Marysville's
Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church on Palm Sunday, April 9. However, he
will preach Sunday, taking over for Tim Muller, who has served as
interim pastor the past nine months.
Trinity will be the first church in which Scott, who holds a master of
divinity from the Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago, will officiate
as senior pastor. He was associate pastor at the 2,000-member Hosanna
Lutheran in St. Charles, Ill., the same church in which he began his
internship eight years ago.
Prior to entering the ministry, Scott owned and operated his own
trucking company outside of O'Hara International Airport. He began as a
truck driver shortly after moving to Chicago in 1975, to be closer to
his father. When he entered the ministry, Scott owned the business,
managing 29 employees, 17 trucks and a 20,000-square-foot warehouse.
As a pastor, he had to develop different work habits, Scott said.
"Nineteen years in trucking and I didn't have to plan things too much.
You live from day to day. But as a pastor, I had to learn to think long
term; I learned to be better organized," he said.
Trinity, a church of roughly 1,000 members, possessed such a spirit of
"hospitality" Scott said, that it spoke to him.
"I see here a group of people who know what they're about and what their
faith is about ...  and they see that as a gift they can give other
people," Scott said. He also liked the fact that Trinity sponsors a school.
"That shows me that young people are important to this church. They see
this as their ministry," he said.
He called Muller, who has been Trinity interim minister since August, "a
very gentle soul." "I like him a lot," Scott added.
Muller, a native of Australia, previously served a church in Auckland,
New Zealand, for six years and then a church in Adelaide in South
Australia for 10 years. He was pursuing an advanced degree at Trinity
Seminary in Bexley and is headed to an interim position in Grove City.
Scott said the interim ministry "is a special mission" requiring someone
adept at carrying a congregation from one pastor to another.
A marathon runner, Scott said he has done some of his best praying while
training for the Walt Disney World Marathon, in which he competed twice.
He also has competed in "a handful of half-marathons."
The Disney run is held in January, which means Scott trained in the
winter time, running 20 miles at a time while fighting 15 mph winds and
zero temperatures. Scott learned how to pace himself by first reading the book "The
Non-runners Marathon Training Guide." He completed his first marathon in
6 1/2 hours. By the time he completed his second marathon, he had shaved
his time down to 5 hours.
Running is a great stress reliever, he said, but so is getting out of
the office and meeting people. He hopes to do a lot of that soon,
between the worship services, administrative duties, Bible studies,
women's circle meetings, teaching, hospital visitations, etc., he must
do as senior pastor. He also must visit each classroom in the adjoining
Trinity Lutheran School weekly and lead the school closing each day.
In addition, he's also scheduled as the guest preacher at the community
ecumenical service Good Friday, April 14, at 12:30 p.m. at the United
Church of Christ. There's "lots to do, lots to know," Scott said.
Meanwhile, Julie, his wife of 26 years, is setting up house at the north
side home they purchased a week ago, and 24-year-old daughter, Katie,
who attends Northern Illinois University, is contemplating a move to
Ohio, according to her father.
Scott's advice to Christians is to "be attentive." Understand that God
made each individual as a special, unique soul, one that has his or her
own special place in the world. Find that place and be happy in it.
And understand that Easter is the most important day in the Christian's
life. "Christmas just sets us on the road. Easter is the destination," Scott said.

County begins aerial mapping
From J-T staff reports:
Survey crews have been working throughout Union County the past two
weeks placing targets for aerial photography.
The photography is part of a major countywide mapping project
commissioned by the Union County Auditor, Board of Commissioners and Engineer.
Surveyors have marked particular spots throughout the county so they are
easy to identify in the photographs. They will also note the precise
latitude, longitude and elevation of each spot. Using the location
information in conjunction with the photo targets, accurate digital
aerial photography (digital orthophotography) can be created.
To mark points for photo identification, survey crews will either attach
a cloth, V-shaped or X-shaped target in grassy areas, or paint a similar
target on asphalt. The cloth targets will be removed within 14 days
after photography and the painted targets are designed to wear off quickly.
The survey crews are employees of Jobes Henderson and Associates Inc.,
working in conjunction with Sanborn Map Co. While at work in the field,
the crews will carry letters of authorization from Union County.
For more information, contact Wade Branstiter at 645-3054.

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