Local Archives

Teen injured by bull
The condition of an area teenager seriously injured by a bull Saturday
is not known.
MedFlight representative Todd Bailey confirmed this morning that the
Allen Center helicopter squad transported a 17-year-old male from the
area of Hidden Farms Road Saturday at 2:23 p.m.
"He was run over by a bull," Bailey said.
Initial television news reports allegedly stated that the male was gored
by the bull, which he said is not accurate.
Bailey said he could not provide the name of the injured male, based on
HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) laws. He
said the male was taken to the Ohio State University Medical Hospital
for care. Information on his condition is also unavailable from the
hospital due to HIPAA laws.
The Marysville Fire Department would not release any information
on the incident.
No report was filed concerning the incident through the Union County
Sheriff's Office which reportedly sent a deputy to the scene when the
MedFlight helicopter arrived.

OSBA to honor Richwood's Wiley
From J-T staff reports:
Richwood resident Gene Wiley, who recently retired from the
Delaware-Union Educational Service Center (ESC) and Tri-Rivers Joint
Vocational School District (JVSD) boards, is among five public school
board members named to the Ohio School Boards Association's (OSBA) 2006
All-Ohio School Board. The board members will be recognized with the
association's highest honor on Nov. 15 during the 51st annual OSBA
Capital Conference and Trade Show in Columbus.
Every year, OSBA names one board of education member from each of its
five regions - Central, Northeast, Northwest, Southeast and Southwest -
to the All-Ohio School Board. The award recognizes outstanding service
to public education and represents the dedication shown by thousands of
board members across the state.
Wiley, a 34-year school board veteran, represents OSBA's Central Region.
He served 13 years on the Delaware-Union ESC and Tri-Rivers JVSD boards,
and previously served 16 years on the North Union Local Schools board
and five years on the old Union County board.
He was elected president and vice president of all of those boards
numerous times through the years, and was president of the
Delaware-Union ESC Governing Board when he retired. The ESC serves seven
local school districts and career centers.
Over his long career Wiley was involved in many school activities. He
was the presenter for the Tri-Rivers Career Center Senior Awards and the
Lautenslager Distinguished Service Awards, and was active in North Union
baseball. Delaware-Union ESC, in announcing his retirement, said, "As a
member of the DUESC Governing Board, Wiley helped steer the ESC through
a period of growth and changes, balancing the needs of students while
making sound business decisions.
"During his tenure, Wiley was instrumental in supporting and instituting
alternative education programs that have gained state and national recognition."
He participated in the OSBA Capital Conference, NSBA conferences and was
a three-time OSBA Board Leadership Institute graduate. Wiley was honored
with the Ohio Educational Service Center Award in 1995 and 2002, and was
recognized for his decades of service by OSBA in 2002.
His community work includes service with the Free & Accepted Masons,
Scottish Rite, Shriners and Richwood Fair Board. He also is a member of
the U.S. Trotting Association.
His colleagues, in nominating him for the All-Ohio School Board, wrote,
"One of (Wiley's) many qualities is his willingness and ability to
engage others and listen to their opinions. . Mr. Wiley is
well-respected by all he meets and interacts with. He is able to find
common ground in critical discussions and has the unique ability to
reflect enjoyment and meaning in what is being discussed or presented.
"He always makes people feel appreciated and respected through his
demeanor and responsiveness. He has a sincere regard for being prepared
and organized for meetings and functions, and takes pride in his role as
a board member."
The other honorees and the districts they serve are: Kathleen Bates,
Miamisburg City Schools; David Belden, Port Clinton City Schools; Joyce
Brooks, Mahoning County ESC and Mahoning County Career & Technical
Center; and Larry Good, Muskingum Valley ESC.
OSBA Executive Director Richard Lewis will recognize the All-Ohio School
Board members on the final day of the Capital Conference, a four-day
convention that draws more than 10,000 of the state's school board
members, superintendents, treasurers, business officials and other school officials.
All-Ohio School Board candidates are nominated by their respective
school boards; OSBA regional committees then select the five winners.
A lifelong Union County resident, Wiley and his wife Peg live in
Richwood. They have three children.
The Ohio School Boards Association is in its 51st year of service to
public education and represents the state's public school boards'
members. OSBA's services include management consulting, continuing
education through training programs and workshops, policy development,
legal services, legislative initiatives, management services,
superintendent and other executive searches, information, technology,
employee relations and communications.

Area resident to turn 100
Dorothy Ballard Parrott will celebrate her 100th birthday at an open
house in her honor Sunday, Nov. 5, at Magnetic Springs United Methodist
Church from 3 to 5 p.m.
The event will be hosted by her children, Richard (May) Parrott, William
(Sally) Parrott and Kay (John) Bishop.
Mrs. Parrott was born Nov. 2, 1906, in Magnetic Springs at "The Bee
Hive," a rooming house owned by her grandmother.
On April 4, 1931, she married Donald D. Parrott, who died in 2002. He
was a co-founder of Parrott Implement Company in Richwood.
The omission of gifts is requested.

City considers water rate increase
By RYAN HORNS
Marysville's Thursday night city council meeting was full of debate
about raising water rates and flooding.
The first reading was held on an ordinance proposing to raise water
rates again for the city of Marysville.
According to the ordinance, "The Water Master Study recommends certain
fee increases to finance long-term capital improvement needs." The
minimum monthly bill for a single family home was $22.36 in January. The
changes would raise that rate to $24.15 in January 2007 and $26.08 in
January 2008. The ordinance is sponsored by councilman David Burke and
mayor Tom Kruse.
Council President John Gore said that the ordinance was not fully
endorsed by the finance committee.
"I wish it would come with a lesser increase," councilman Dan Fogt said.
He admitted that lower increases now might lead to higher rate increases
down the line.
The public hearing of the proposed water rate increase ordinance is
scheduled for the Nov. 2 council meeting.
In another matter, Greenwood Colony residents discussed flooding at
South Park located off Route 38.
Roland Seymour, an Oak Knoll Court homeowner, said the nearby Adena
Pointe Development has caused more flooding than ever before. He said
the conditions have brought on some 250 geese.
"Now we have constant water out there," Seymour said. "All of this could
have been prevented."
Several other residents also voiced criticism of Adena Pointe and the
increased flooding. Resident Mike Robinson said the issue of whether or
not the park is a wetland keeps changing, depending upon whether or not
it benefits a new development.
Gore said only the Army Corps of Engineers can determine what is a
wetland, but agreed that something could be done about relocating the
wetland to a more productive area. He added that council plans to hold
Adena Pointe to fixing the flooding problem and that the city also has
plans for drainage tile repairs. Gore referred the issue to council's
public service committee for further discussion.
In other topics, the first reading was held on a resolution for a system
capacity fee incentive policy for expanding businesses and corporations.
The resolution would reportedly promote growth and development.
It would mean no increased costs for residents, Burke said.
"Businesses can utilize system capacity fee incentives in order to
realize savings up front and potentially invest additional dollars into
their facilities or hire additional employees," the resolution states.
Companies considered for this would need three of the criteria listed:
Create more than 50 jobs, have private investments exceeding $5 million,
have an average yearly payroll exceeding $50,000 per employee, have a
total yearly average payroll of at least $5 million or be within the
city's overall development plan.
In other business:
. Jim Cesa and Kandy Burch of Community Action Partnership spoke about
their Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) which offers help to area
residents dealing with the high cost of heating and weatherizing their
homes. A total of $92,000 is set aside for residents between Nov. 1 and
March 31 based on eligibility. For more information, contact Burch or
Cesa online at www.caodmu.org or 642-4986.
. Marysville Police Officer Don McGlenn was awarded employee of the
quarter for his work in the drug investigation field and his community service.
. As gratitude for enjoying life in Marysville for the past 25 years,
Hank and Marianne Burbee donated 25,000 daffodil flower bulbs to the city.
. The Woods at Mill Valley Homeowners Association representative Laura
Steven spoke to council about installing speed bumps to control traffic
in the neighborhood. Gore asked the Public safety Committee to take a
look at the issue and come back with a decision.

Memorial Hospital renames support agency
By CORINNE BIX
Union County Hospital Association (UCHA) officially merged into Union
County Health System (UCHS) and donated $275,000 to Memorial Hospital of
Union County with $20,000 earmarked for a museum display chronicling the
hospital's heritage and history.
UCHA has been in existence for more than 50 years and was originally
formed as a fundraising arm to support construction of the hospital. The
group now support the hospital and has partial ownership in Health
Partners, MPI, MPI Real Estate, The Marysville Surgery Center, The Morey
Medical Building, among others.
The group is a private not-for-profit organization with its own
self-perpetuating board. Current board members include Dave Allen, Jesse
Conrad, Norm Renner, Gerry Dackin, Jim Mayers, Karen Long, Norm Herron,
Kathleen Sehnert, Hank Berbee and Jerry Born.
Chip Hubbs, CEO/president stated in an earlier correspondence that the
UCHS would be changing its name to UCHA given the more significant
historical name in the community.
During Thursday's regular meeting, the hospital board remembered the
late Ann Allen who was a board member since 1995.
Hubbs has asked the county commissioners to consider naming two new
board members before the January scheduled board retreat to the Estes
Park Institute in Scottsdale, Ariz. Hubbs said this would allow the
incoming board members an opportunity to acquaint themselves with the
other board members.
In other business:
. The hospital has signed a new audit contract with Blue and Company.
Earlier this year the administration said they were disappointed with
the auditing firm of Plante and Moran and wanted to sever ties. Approval
from the State Auditor is required for such an action. Hubbs informed
the board the hospital has received state approval to sign with a new firm.
. The board selected the winner of this year's holiday card design for
the hospital and the Gables at Green Pastures from approximately 40
entries submitted by the North Union School District students. The
winner will be contacted this week and will receive a $50 gift
certificate to Toys-R Us and $50 savings bond.
. The board adjourned into executive session to discuss trade secrets
and pending litigation. No action was taken.
. The board approved the 2007 operating budget for the hospital and the
Gables at Green Pastures; the purchase of a 64-slice CT scanner; a
donation from the Plain City Lions Club for $1,000 to be used towards
the CT scanner.
. Various medical staff matters were approved including the appointment
of Dr. Charles Municrief as secretary/treasurer of medical staff
leadership. Also approved were conflict of interest disclosures for Dr.
Michael Conrad and Dr. Charles Municrief due to changes in medical staff
leadership. Robin Slattman will be named the new chief nursing officer.
She replaces Jackie Haverkamp, former vice president of nursing. Hubbs
explained that only the job title has changed and that Slattman will
have the same duties. Slattman formerly worked for Community Memorial
Hospital in Defiance. She will start on Dec. 11.
. Local charities will receive $8,000. For a second year, the hospital
administration has opted to donate funds originally budgeted for holiday
gifts to medical staff and board member to area not-for-profit groups.
The next board of trustees meeting will be Nov. 30 at 8 p.m.

Scaring for a cause
Local man's haunted house to benefit charity
By CINDY BRAKE
Whalen's House -O-Screams is open to anyone looking for a good scare on
Monday and Tuesday.
Halloween enthusiast Steve Whalen, 29, has been working for weeks to
convert his two-car garage at 1041 Van Kirk Drive to a haunted habitat.
He began planning in August while at the beach. His motivation is
two-fold ? "to share the fun" and to raise funds for the local arthritis foundation.
"If you want to hear something really scary talk to someone with
rheumatoid arthritis," Whalen said.
Whalen should know. He was diagnosed three years ago with rheumatoid arthritis.
"I was devastated," Whalen said about the diagnosis.
The disease left him in constant pain and unable to pick up his child or
play football. At one time he was taking eight pills a day to control
the pain. After three years of trying different medications, Whalen said
he takes three pills a week and is just "kind of sore all the time."
A year ago when the pain became manageable, he finally felt good enough
to swing a hammer and continue a boyhood tradition of making haunted houses.
"It was a miracle," Whalen said when he could raise his arms above his
head. "Like a prayer was answered."
Whalen credits his older brother, Michael, with his fascination for
fear. He said the brothers were "enemies" growing up, except on
Halloween. "That was the only time we did something together. We were scary."
To their mother's frustration, the brothers created a haunted house that
attracted hundreds of people annually with broken windows and a coffin.
"We never went trick or treating," Whalen said.
But they always ended up with at least one bag of candy that was dropped
by a scared person. He said they hit the jackpot one year when four bags
were dropped. "We always had candy."
The brothers continued their scary ways throughout college, but marriage
and health concerns led to a lapse of six years in their haunting. Now
with his training in mechanical engineering, the Whalen House-O-Screams
is definitely high-tech with television screens, timers, strobe and
black lights, music and a fog machine. It also includes a coffin,
gravestones and spider web fence in the yard, plastic skull on a post
and "bloody" board.
Those who make it through the haunted house will have a chance to watch
other people going through via a live night-vision camera. Whalen said
his brother will be helping him out with the haunting this year.
Whalen warns that his haunted garage is scary, but not gory. He doesn't
want to create any nightmares, just to have people walk away with a
smile on their face.
It is definitely not for small children, Whalen adds. At the end of the
drive way, Whalen's wife, Andi, will oversee the Treats for Tots corner.
Whalen's House-O-Screams is open Monday from 7 to 10 p.m. and Tuesday
from 6 to 10 p.m. All donations go to the local arthritis foundation.
"This is something I can do to help a cause," Whalen said.

City park to go smoke free
From J-T staff reports:
The City of Marysville in partnership with the Union County Health
Department announced today that beginning Nov. 1 Eljer Park will be a
smoke-free recreational facility.
Steve Conley, superintendent of parks and recreation for the City of
Marysville, and Martin Tremmel, health commissioner for the Union County
Health Department hope the new smoke-free environment will help role
model healthy behaviors for youths.
"Tobacco kills more Americans each year than alcohol, cocaine, heroin,
homicide, suicide, car accidents, fires, and AIDS combined. It is our
goal to prevent youth from becoming tobacco users. Role modeling
non-smoking behavior as well as providing smoke-free environments will
assist in reaching this goal," said Conley.
Each day many children throughout Marysville and Union County visit
Eljer Park to take part in organized activities and to enjoy the play
structures, making the park an ideal setting for promoting health.
"It is critical that we teach our children the dangers of smoking. One
of the best ways to do this is through role modeling, and providing
smoke-free play environments is a big step in the right direction" said Tremmel.
In addition to role modeling healthy behavior, city park officials and
county health officials hope to preserve the beauty of the parks and
scenic environments from discarded cigarette butts, which take many
years to decompose.
While city park officials hope park patrons will self-enforce this new
initiative, the restriction will be enforceable in the same manner as
all other park rules, outlined in City Codified Ordinance 951.02 (F)
(1). The ordinance states that all park visitors must obey all posted
signs. A violation of this provision constitutes a minor misdemeanor.
For more information on parks in the City of Marysville, those
interested may call 642-0116. For information on stop smoking classes,
developing smoke-free policies or other resources, please contact the
Union County Health Department at 642-2053.

Stopped in their tracks
City caught off guard by closing of two rail crossings at once
By RYAN HORNS
Monday saw the unexpected closure of both the Main Street and the
Delaware railroad crossings. As a result, traffic lined up in downtown Marysville.
Marysville city officials scrambled to find out what was going on with
the CSX railroad crossing repairs. By Tuesday the Main Street crossing
was open, then this morning at 8 a.m. the Main Street crossing was closed again.
According to city officials, the Delaware Avenue crossing is expected to
open later today.
To clear up any confusion, Marysville Mayor Tom Kruse explained what has
been happening with the CSX railroad crossing work. He said the CSX
office in Indianapolis reportedly did not schedule the work time on the
tracks for the Marysville CSX workers to get the job done on Delaware
Avenue. As a result, both Delaware Avenue and Main Street ended up
closed at the same time.
Kruse said the city appeared to have no authority over the situation,
until he made a call to Ohio Rail Authority representative Susan
Kirkland, and learned that CSX should have asked the city before closing
down the Main Street crossing.
At the Marysville Police Department, assistant chief Glenn Nicol said
officers will be out helping the drivers. The city has turned Maple and
Elwood streets into three-way stops to facilitate traffic flow.
"We will also have officers out there at peak times." he said.
Nicol encouraged drivers to avoid the high traffic area by using Fifth
Street to get to the bypass.
Kruse said he learned CSX cannot close any city road without his
permission. With this new information, he informed the CSX workers that
they were to finish the work on Delaware Avenue before closing the Main
Street crossing for repairs. CSX workers had already begun tearing up
the Main Street crossing, so they were told to put it back together and
reopen the roadway by Tuesday. It was expected to stay open until CSX
workers completed the work on Delaware Avenue. Despite that request both
crossings were closed today at press time.
Kruse explained the timeline for area railroad crossing repairs:
. The Delaware Avenue railroad crossing will open this afternoon. On the
original schedule Delaware Avenue would have opened this past Sunday.
. The Main Street railroad crossing will be closed for repairs beginning
today at 8 a.m., after the school rush hour. It will remain closed
throughout the weekend and will reopen sometime on Monday.
. The Industrial Parkway railroad crossing will close Monday at 8 a.m.
and will remain closed throughout the week.
City engineer Phil Roush said it was frustrating to go to Delaware
Avenue on Monday and discover no one working.
"We get just as frustrated as the residents do," Roush said.
Kruse said there needs to be better planning and coordination within CSX
for the road closures that effect major traffic flows within Marysville.
"Our goal is to work cooperatively," he said.
Kruse said the city has had a hard time "working through the bureaucracy."
He said the city appreciates the patience drivers have had and his staff
is trying to facilitate the repairs, but ultimately the work is in the hands of CSX.
"We understand it has been a rough summer with all the work being done,"
Kruse said. "But there is light at the end of the tunnel and it's going
to be a lot better."
Kruse said the city will provide further notices to residents regarding
the railroad crossing closures.
Marysville Fire Chief Gary Johnson said that the crossing closures have
not caused problems for his staff responding to emergency situations and
that response times have not been delayed.
"I'm more concerned about the long-term situation with the railroad
track and where it's placed." Johnson said. "It's always been a concern."
Johnson said the crossing closures are a temporary situation.
"It's going to be a lot nicer once they are done - and much safer," he said.

UCSO to promote Halloween safety
From J-T staff reports:
October is well known as a time when ghosts and goblins and many other
creatures will be wandering the streets in search of that "trick or
treat." It is also a night to be aware of safety.
According to the Union County Sheriff's Office, deputies will be out in
full force to make that a reality, with the help of a grant from the
Ohio Department of Public Safety.
Union County Sheriff Rocky Nelson reported that in addition to having
extra patrol officers in county neighborhoods, the sheriff's office will
also have extra deputies patrolling the public highways in search of
impaired drivers. The extra patrols on the highways are funded through
the state grant.
"As always, we will be in the neighborhoods watching out for the safety
of the kids as they make their rounds from house to house," Nelson said.
"Our goal is to make this a fun night for the kids and parents to see
that everyone returns home safely.
Grant coordinator, Sgt. Don Eubanks said, "our streets will be filled
with kids and parents as they celebrate this day and the last thing we
need is an impaired driver on the road."
Nelson said parents can do a few things to help make the night safe.
Some tips are:
. Make sure younger children are accompanied by an adult.
. Older children should travel in pairs or groups.
. Parents should know the route of your children.
. Stay on the sidewalks and do not cut across yards.
. Avoid unlit houses and dark and unlit roads.
. Make sure your children have on reflective material or carry a
reflective bag and a flashlight or other illuminating device.
. Tell children not to eat the candy until you have physically inspected
all of it. Throw away any unwrapped candy or any other suspicious
looking treats.
"Halloween can be a memorable night for the kids and the parents and it
is our goal to make sure it does not become a nightmare for anyone," Nelson said.
Nelson reported that anyone who spots or suspects an impaired driver is
encouraged to call the Sheriff's Office at 937-645-4110 or call 9-1-1.

Harness racing to stay at fair
Board approves two nights of action
By CINDY BRAKE
Harness racing will return to a two-day competition at the Union County Fair.
The fair's board of directors voted 8 to 2 during Monday's regular
meeting to schedule harness racing in 2007 on Sunday, July 22, at 1 p.m.
and Monday, July 23, at 5 p.m.
The decision comes a month after rumors circulated that the fair
directors were thinking about eliminating the long-time staple because
of financial concerns. The turn around in thinking appears to come
largely from the work of a joint committee of horsemen and fair
directors who have been meeting weekly.
Prior to the vote, John Fitzgerald, representing the horsemen, offered
reasons for two-day racing and suggestions about increasing interest in
harness racing locally.
Fitzgerald said two-day racing increases the fair's attendance and
wagering. Wagering in 2005, when the fair had two days of racing,
equaled $2,959. Wagering this year, with one day of racing, equaled
$837. Other financial benefits brought to the fair by local horsemen,
include $1,600 in rental for each of the five barns and $2,600 from
paramutual wagering.
Also present at the meeting was Jerry Knappenberger, general manager of
the Ohio Harness Horseman's Association. He said there is more wagering
on horses than ever, but most is going out of the state. He encouraged
the group to work together.
Ideas to increase profits included having harness racing on senior day,
increasing sponsorships, and offering community involvement such as
school trumpeters calling races, celebrity racing, pony racing, mule
racing and 4-H racing. A youth program could include puzzles, horse
trivia and pictures, along with a coloring contest.
In other business:
. Directors were sworn into office. Re-elected were Dale Madison, Tony
Bowersmith, Dwayne Smith, Gene Kirby, Crystal Ropp, Billie Jo Humble,
Ruby Anderson and Kay Griffith. Elected for first terms were Richard
Digney, Rhonda Holbrook and Patty Madison. Brandon Nace was re-appointed.
. The board voted to send letters to directors Dave Cook and Sharon
Walls, both have missed three meetings.
. Dale Madison was re-elected president and Ron Schilling was elected vice president.
. Laurel A. Aiyana of Milford Center was hired as secretary. The
position pays $300 a month. She has been assisting the board with grant
writing and was among four candidates interviewed for the position.
. Kay Griffith was rehired as marketing director. The position pays $600 a month.
. Kim Butcher was rehired as treasurer. The position pays $300 a month.
. Billie Jo Humble will serve as a voting delegate to the Western Ohio
Colt Association with Ruby Anderson serving as an alternate.
. Kay Griffith said uncollected funds to date are $3,000. This compares
to $10,000 at this time last year.
. City administrator Kathy House addressed the board about acquiring
temporary and permanent easements for a lift station. The city is
seeking .681 acres in a permanent easement for $4,162.73 and .218 acres
in a temporary easement for $133.26. She said the fair board owns 48.5
acres valued at $12,225 an acre. The board took no action on the request.
. An executive committee was appointed to review the budget. Committee
members include Dwayne Smith, Billie Jo Humble, Tony Bowersmith, Gene
Kirby and Kay Griffith. Also participating will be Kim Butcher of the
finance committee and vice president Ron Schilling.
The next regular meeting is Nov. 27 at 7 p.m. in the Fair Board Office.

Richwood eyes rate increase
By CHAD WILLIAMSON
When things get old, they break down and with that in mind Richwood
Village Council is looking to the future of the village infrastructure.
Village council is looking at ways to begin building money for repairs
that will be needed for the aging water and sewer lines.
"We're throwing good money after bad," village utility committee head
Von Beal said.
Beal said the utility committee has been looking at ways to generate
money for repairs because the cash flow is currently not there.
Outside of planning for aging lines, Beal mentioned other projects that
need attention, including:
.Catch basin upkeep.
.Mapping of the village utility lines.
.Repairs to stop inflow and infiltration.
.Shutoff valves at village wells.
.An audit of wiring at the village utility plants.
.Line looping to increase water pressure.
Beal said grant money for such projects is drying up and nearly the only
way to generate more funds is an increase in water and sewer rates.
Beal said the committee is looking at increasing water and sewer rates
by $2.50 each. He said the average user in Richwood pays a $59 monthly
utility bill, which would increase to $64. The village has 891 water and
sewer customers.
Beal said the committee also considered a larger monthly increase, a
scaled fee system for customers who use more water and a built-in 3
percent annual increase. He said the village need to take action on the
issue by the first of the year.
In other business, council:
.Discussed contracting with the county to handle all building
inspections in the village. Currently the county handles all commercial
permits as well as residential water and electric inspections. Mayor
Bill Nibert said the state is forcing municipalities to enforce its
building codes and the only options are to have the county do all
inspections or the village can hire its own. Nibert said the village
would lose money if it hired its own inspector because the volume of
work in the village would not generate enough permit fees to cover the expense.
.Voted 6-0 as an emergency to approve an annexation into the 23.25 acres
of land into the village. The property will serve as a residential construction site.
.Voted 6-0 to renew the village's insurance at a cost of $21,000 which
is $1,600 less than last year's premium. The coverage does not include
medical insurance.
.Voted 6-0 to approve the amounts and rates of the village's four tax levies.
.Learned that the work on the new furnace at the town hall will begin this week.
.Heard that Nov. 6 will be the last day of brush chipping for the season.
.Learned that leaf pick-up will soon begin and residents are asked to
use paper bags to help with the collection process.
.Heard that ODOT will be repaving Route 37 in the summer of 2008.

Main Street rail crossing to close Monday at noon
More news was released regarding city railroad crossing closures, as
they undergo repairs conducted by CSX.
Marysville City Administrator Kathy House reported that CSX clarified
its schedule for the Marysville railroad crossing repairs in process.
She said the Main Street crossing will close Monday at noon for repairs
to begin there and continue through until the next week.
The delayed Delaware Avenue crossing repair status was also updated.
House said the concrete panels will be set by CSX on Wednesday and the
final asphalt will be laid on Thursday, weather permitting.
"CSX hopes to reopen the Delaware Avenue crossing late Thursday or early
Friday," House said.

Delaware Ave. railroad closure extended a week
Marysville officials report that residents will need a little more
patience dealing with the Delaware Avenue railroad closure.
City administrator Kathy House said that CSX has recently informed the
city that the closure of the Delaware Avenue rail crossing has been
extended due to CSX's scheduling issues.
House said the earliest opening will be the week of October 30, which is
one week later than expected.
"As previously announced, barricades have been installed on both sides
of the crossing, preventing through traffic, which allows full access to
adjacent businesses," House said.
She also reiterated that alternate routes for motorists include using
Columbus Avenue and Industrial Parkway to get to Coleman's Crossing
Boulevard, or using the U.S. 33, Route 4, or U.S. 36 bypass around the city.
"We appreciate your cooperation in dealing with this short term
inconvenience," she said.

Local man sentenced for arson
By RYAN HORNS
A Marysville man will spend the next seven years in prison for setting
his home on fire in an insurance fraud scam.
Harold Wolf, 46, of 277 Magnolia Drive, was found guilty on all four
felony charges against him after a two-day trial earlier this week in
the Union County Common Pleas Court. Wolf was sentenced by Common Pleas
Judge Richard Parrott to six years for aggravated arson; 12 months for
arson, six months for attempted grand theft; and six months for
insurance fraud. The two arson-related charges were ruled to be served
consecutively and the remaining charges were ruled concurrently. He is
expected to be ineligible for parole until he has served five years.
"It was clearly arson," Union County Prosecutor David Phillips said this
morning. "All evidence leads to Mr. Wolf."
He said by setting the trailer on fire, Wolf put firemen and surrounding
neighbors in life-threatening danger.
Phillips explained that on Oct. 9, 2005 there was an explosion at 277
Magnolia Drive. A neighbor testified he saw Wolf running away from the
home, covered in burns.
Throughout the trial, investigators with the Marysville Fire and Police
Departments, the State Fire Marshall's Office and State Farm insurance
were able to prove Wolf had poured gasoline throughout the home. He then
set the house on fire.
Phillips said that unfortunately for Wolf's plans, the house had been
closed shut. Windows were shut, and two doors were bolted. The result
was that there was not enough oxygen in the home to support the house
burning to the ground. So when Wolf opened the door to his garage, a
backdraft exploded out toward him, causing burns to his face, wrist and leg.
Investigators then found burn marks, consistent with poured gasoline,
throughout the residence, Phillips said. There was even another 6.6
gallon tank of gasoline sitting on the floor, with a trail of gasoline
leading to it. If the plan had worked, the result could have been a much
larger explosion, it was reported.
Phillips said Wolf's stories of the explosion were inconsistent. He told
police he was blown out of the home through the doorway. He told a
neighbor the gas can exploded and blew him into the stove. He told
insurance investigators an entirely different story.
He said investigators found no evidence of an explosion disrupting the
contents inside the home. The explosion only went into the garage,
caused by Wolf opening the door. The explosion even resulted in the
garage door buckling outwards.
"Nothing else moved," Phillips said. "His story didn't make any sense."
Near the stove, where Wolf was allegedly blown into, a lamp was found
still standing, cobwebs still on a candle and the curtains unmoved, Phillips said.
Another clear sign was that Wolf reportedly removed clothes and emptied
drawers inside his house. He also went camping and took his cats along -
something he had never done before.
"The reason was because he loved those cats," Phillips said.
Investigators believed Wolf planned to burn the house down and collect
approximately $48,000 in insurance money.
After the explosion, Phillips said Wolf filed the insurance claim, which
included the alleged lie about the cause of the fire.
Prosecution also pulled out Wolf's former neighbor from prison, who then
testified Wolf had mentioned burning down their homes, since both of
their trailers were for sale.

City resident challenges sign ordinance
By RYAN HORNS
As political signs begin sprouting up around town, many residents may
not realize those signs could be contrary to city ordinance.
According to the city's ordinance, signs are not allowed to go up until
18 days prior to an election - in this case, Friday, Oct. 20.
West Sixth Street resident John Babik would like city officials to
revisit the ordinance. Babik says the law is unconstitutional.
He put political signs in his yard earlier this month and was recently
asked by city employees to remove them. While he admits the homemade
sign is larger than most in town, it still falls within the "no larger
than 10-square feet" size limits of the city's ordinance. He feels his
sign was targeted for political reasons.
"It is, without a doubt, a strong statement," Babik said about his
signs. "But I see other signs up."
Despite a call from the city zoning department, Babik said he decided to
keep his political signs right where they are.
"That's the part that bothered me the most," he said. "I cannot fathom
someone coming onto my yard and taking my signs down."
Mayor Tom Kruse said the political sign ordinance language is unenforceable.
The ordinance states "the community of Marysville prefers" that
residents follow the 18-day rule, Kruse said.
"Presently it has no force of law," Kruse said.
To explain its origins, the 2004 law was voted through Marysville City
Council to deal with what was considered a rash of political signs going
up all over town during the hotly debated presidential election. Council
members passed the ordinance to help reduce future numbers.
Marysville City Council President John Gore said very long discussions
in Planning Commission meetings led to the sign ordinance.
"I hope that most of our citizens can respect our intent," he said.
Gore said one of the city's best traits is that residents have not
succumbed to the "trashiness" of overdoing political signs, unlike other
cities. But if they do, the law is set up to alleviate the problem.
"It's never been challenged in Marysville," he said.
Gore said it doesn't help that the city administration isn't enforcing
the ordinance as it should be.
Kruse explained that the Supreme Court has ruled that a city may pass no
ordinance regulating signs based on content - such as political signs.
"Any attempt to do that, in light of the Supreme Court decision," Kruse
said, "would be an abuse of my power."
Kruse said a city can do two things - regulate all kinds of signs,
including those for real estate or fundraising, or enforce aspects of
safety toward the signs. For this reason the ordinance states that
residents cannot place signs within the city right of way and cannot
place signs which may block traffic visibility. If these rules are
broken, the city will ask for the signs to be taken down and if the
signs remain, then city staff will take them. The signs will then be
held at the Public Service Center and if no one picks them up, they will
be incinerated.
Babik said he does not support any restriction on putting up signs, even
if it means that more signs go up from his opposing political party.
"I challenge (the city) to enforce it," he said.
He also feels the political sign issue is a great debate everyone should
be having. Do the signs represent freedom of speech, or are they just
eye pollution? The best argument he has heard from his opposition is
that political signs bring a "trashy" look to the city. Some signs can
also stay up for months.
Babik said it shouldn't matter either way.
"Do you want the heavy hand of local, state or the federal government
telling you how you can exercise your right to free speech?" he said.

Keeping children safe in a new world
Superintendents discuss safety measures in wake of recent school
shootings
By CORINNE BIX
Students come first, although it can be a difficult balance to keep
school buildings safe without making the community feel closed out,
contend area superintendents.
In light of recent school shootings, area superintendents took time to
weigh in on the issue of school violence and what is being done in Union
County to keep kids safe.
"In the effort to find a happy medium between being open to the
community and keeping the children and staff safe, it will always be a
challenge given the way life has changed since 9/11," Fairbanks
Superintendent Jim Craycraft said.
Craycraft said that Fairbanks' security process includes many different elements.
There are security cameras at all of the Fairbanks buildings along with
security cameras and radios on each of the school buses. Administrators,
secretaries and custodians all carry walkie-talkies and the district
recently installed a new all call phone system.
In addition the Fairbanks staff is trained in safety procedures.
Marysville schools also have a crisis plan in place and conducts routine
safety drills with students similar to fire and tornado drills.
"We do a lot of talking with students to explain to the kids what is
going on," Superintendent Larry Zimmerman explained, "Kids need to be
aware of what is occurring and for their protection they need to know
the procedures."
North Union Superintendent Rick Smith said the district does all it can
to make the school environment as safe as possible for students.
"Our safety team will be reconvening this month to look at updates and
make alignments to better our safety plan," Smith said.
All three superintendents said there are two key elements to safety:
keeping all but one door locked during the school day while students are
in class and requiring all visitors to sign in and get a visitor's badge
at the front office.
"We are definitely trying to monitor who comes and goes," Zimmerman said.
Newer school buildings are being designed with safety in mind. All three
superintendents cited their newer school buildings as some of the safest
given that visitors cannot gain access to the building without first
going through the front office.
All of the Marysville buildings with the exception of Raymond elementary
and the high school have been designed or modified with this feature in
mind, Zimmerman said. Raymond and the high school will be modified in
the coming months.
Craycraft explained that many of the older buildings were designed to be
convenient, not necessarily secure.
"We require all guests to come directly to the office, sign in and
receive a badge," Craycraft said.
Fairbanks is set to open its new elementary building in fall of 2008.
The new building will be designed with the only entrance through the
office as is North Union elementary which opened in 2004.
"It all boils down to when the kids come in the building that we accept
the law of loco-parentis," Zimmerman said, "They become our kids and we
are the parents and I would think district parents would want us to
treat their kids as if they are our own."
The state of Ohio requires that all schools have a safety plan in place
and filed with local law enforcement.

Armory project defined
By RYAN HORNS
A meeting on the future Ohio Armory National Guard provided details on
its partnership with Union County's YMCA.
"This is an exciting time for our community," economic development
director Eric Phillips said.
The Monday night meeting at the YMCA was attended by dozens of officials
representing Marysville City Council and administration, Union County
Commissioners and department heads, Marysville Planning Commission and
design review board members, along with other community leaders and residents.
Phillips said bringing the Ohio Armory National Guard to Marysville
began four years ago when its representatives sought out the town in
2002. From the beginning, the hope was to have it work in conjunction
with the YMCA. The result of the planning and discussion, once completed
and running, is expected to create a $9 million investment to the city.
The design phase began last year and was to be completed by fall 2006.
"It has been a long, but I think fruitful process," Phillips said.
Assistant Quartermaster General Col. (Ret) Richard Dreiman explained
that the armory project is made up of two land parcels, one 12.75 acres
and one 3 acres. The guard is waiting for a $69,000 sign off on the
purchase agreement with the county for the land. Once the guard has the
title, federal officials can release the funds to begin construction on
the 42,500 square foot addition to the YMCA.
Dreiman said bids will open in January. By the first or second week in
April, the groundbreaking ceremony should be held. The whole project
should take eight months to a year to complete and will cost $8.2 million.
For any organization wanting to use the building in its off days,
Dreiman said, the guard sets up its calendar of training events one year
ahead of time. It makes planning very easy for the community.
Col. Robert Clouse, facilities management officer for the armory, said
the idea of combining the guard with the community came about because
the guard does not use the building to the greatest extent. Other than
training twice a month, the building "sits pretty empty." The idea was
to offer the building to the public for gym spaces, classrooms, and a kitchen area.
Clouse said the armory will train two units, 64 members of the Air Force
Defense Artillery and 170 members of the Military Police. Seven
full-time staffers will also be working inside. He said the National
Guard has always been about the community; even the staff and military
units will be living within a 30-mile radius of the facility.
Phillips said the idea of mixing National Guard training centers with
community spaces was first utilized in Minnesota. A trip up north to
visit left a positive impression. Other cities such as Bowling Green and
Cincinnati have already proven the partnership useful. The only thing
left to accomplish is Marysville purchasing the last remaining acreage
established for the project, which is currently owned by Union County.
Phillips said early on the county commissioners took a positive attitude
and purchased the land, based on the hope it would facilitate the armory project.
Project Architect Dan Behnfeldt of Cincinnati's KZF Architecture, said
the building's design was built around fitting into the YMCA and nearby
Big Box retailers.
"It's pretty sleek. It's dynamic," Behnfeldt said about the armory
design. "It's symbolic of the dynamic nature of the National Guard."
Phillips explained that, as a federal entity, the National Guard does
not have to adhere to Marysville design standards, using instead Ohio
state standards.
Behnfeldt said they would keep Marysville standards in mind as they
continue their plans.
For security, he said, that there would be an electronic system based on
motion detection. However, he explained that only weapons will be stored
on the premises and they are contained in a reinforced concrete bunker
room deep within the building. All military vehicles are enclosed in
fencing, which is not visible from Delaware Avenue.
Clouse assured the audience that National Guard buildings are a
commitment to the cities they enter.
"Some of our facilities are almost 100 years old," he said.
Phillips said the entire Coleman's Crossing retail project, which
brought Home Depot, Applebees and Wal-mart Super Center, would never
have been possible if it weren't for the National Guard's interest in
Marysville. He explained that the guard stated it would eventually need
a roadway running along the building, providing direct access to
Delaware Avenue, which the city decided to create with Coleman's
Crossing. That roadway made it possible to bring in new businesses.

Jerome Township won't pursue charges against official
By CINDY BRAKE
The Jerome Township Board of Trustees voted to not pursue charges
against the township's zoning commission chairman.
After months of executive sessions to consider "employee discipline,
compensation," the three trustees met once again after Monday's regular
meeting for the same reason. When they returned from the 45-minute
closed session, chairman Bob Merkle presented a motion to take no action
at this time against zoning commission chairman Kent Anders. The motion
passed with fellow trustee Andrew Thomas agreeing. Trustee Ron Rhodes
voted against the motion without comment.
"The zoning commission represents the township and there can't be any
evidence of impropriety on the point of any board member," Merkle said
today. "The decision not to pursue charges at this time is based on the
greater good of the township."
A document, signed by the three trustees on March 1, notified Anders
that "certain charges have been made against you and certain information
has come to the attention of the board of township trustees regarding
the manner in which you have performed the duties of your office.
"These charges and information are summarized as follows: On or about
February 13, 2006, you told an applicant in the parking lot of the
Jerome Township Hall, that in order to receive a recommendation of
approval on a pending zoning application the applicant must satisfy the
demands of those in the township who in the past opposed the development
application. On or about February 27, you violated the Ohio Open Meeting
Act and failed to conduct a Jerome Township Zoning Commission meeting."
Responding to a citizen's question, the trustees said they are
continuing to talk with officials from the city of Marysville about
development issues. Merkle said the-much-talked about Route 33 Corridor
Accord is on-hold until January. Rhodes and Thomas added that legal
counsel has advised them that a memorandum of understanding prepared by
the LUC Planning Commission for the Accord has "problems."
The Accord is a group of government officials who are interested in
directing development along U.S. Route 33 between Dublin and Marysville.
Half of the area originally discussed is in Jerome Township. This has
caused Jerome's elected officials some concern that officials from other
jurisdictions would determine their community's fate.
Other members of the Accord include the Union County Commissioners,
Marysville and Dublin mayors and councils, trustees from Washington
Township in Franklin County and Millcreek and Dover townships in Union
County, as well as Jerome Township. Allen and Darby Township officials
have also attended planning meetings, as well as elected officials from
the village of Plain City.
Upcoming meetings include informational sessions about a public safety
officer levy on Oct. 18 and 26 at the township hall and Oct. 23 at the
Jerome Methodist Church. All meetings begin at 7 p.m. A developer,
Jerome Village, is hosting an open house on Thursday at 7 p.m. at Made
From Scratch.
In other business, Merkle said he is beginning the process to plot the
final quadrant at the cemetery. Rhodes and Thomas provided updates on
road work. Thomas said installation of the aerator/fountain should begin
soon, weather permitting.

Triad purchases web-based cafeteria data system
By CORINNE BIX
The Triad school district has decided to purchase an electronic
cafeteria data system as presented at last month's meeting.
The Lunch Box System from Business Data Systems will connect all three
buildings and allow parents the flexibility of depositing money through
the web-based system or through the school office. The total cost of the
program is $11,900.
Superintendent Dan Kaffenbarger said the cost would be financed out of
the reserve cafeteria fund.
Currently the district has a base electronic system at the elementary building.
Kaffenbarger said that the replacement school bus should be delivered by
the end of the week. The district is working to turn over their fleet
one bus each year.
Kaffenbarger said that fleet maintenance has become costly and the
district has spent an excess of $9,000 since July.
The bus that is being replaced is a 1990 handicap-equipped bus with a
wheelchair lift that was obtained from the state. Kaffenbarger said the
bus was state provided therefore the district can either turn it back
over to the state or keep it.
Kaffenbarger said the bus would remain in the fleet as a back up.
Brenda Boyd, district curriculum coordinator, presented to the board
information on the social studies curriculum.
Boyd showed the board supplemental materials that have been purchased to
help district students better prepare for state-mandated tests.
In addition, the district is set to choose a new social studies
curriculum for grades five through 12 in the spring. They are currently
reviewing programs from Harcourt-Brace, Prentice Hall and Glencoe.
The district is working through both language arts and social studies to
improve district scores in regard to informational text as measured by
the state achievement tests.
Boyd said she didn't have any specific information in regard to the
total cost of a new social studies curriculum.
Chris Millice, board president, asked if she could present cost
information within the next several board meetings.
Kaffenbarger shared with board members a letter of recognition from the
Ohio Department of Education commending Triad for moving up to an
effective district on the state report card. The district was also
recognized for moving 10 or more points on the performance index.
Kaffenbarger reported that the district has moved almost 18 points in
the last three years.
The board approved a resolution in regard to district employees wishing
to purchase or procure a tax-sheltered annuity for themselves through
payroll deduction. The resolution requires that at least five employees
purchase from the same annuity to qualify for a payroll deduction to be
administered by the district.
The next regular board meeting will be Nov. 20 at 7 p.m. in the high
school library.
In other news, the board:
. Heard a presentation from social studies teacher Amanda Goodwin and
students Alicia Danwood and Jordan Randall about the eighth grade class
project on North Lewisburg and Champaign County history.
. Approved the following supplemental resignations: Norma Bottom, middle
school yearbook advisor; Will Nichols, seventh grade girls basketball
coach; Amanda Alexander, high school NHS and student council advisor.
. Approved the following certified/classified supplemental personnel:
Erick Grasley, girls assistant basketball coach; Melissa Lasley, middle
school yearbook advisor; Randy Brown, seventh grade girls basketball;
and Terry Donohoe, assistant boys basketball.
. Approved Carol Nance as Ohio Reads volunteer coordinator in the grant
funded supplemental position.
. Approved the increase of the general fund appropriation of $87,866.02
as follows: $13,000, tuition reimbursement requests; $29,079 MRDD
preschool excess costs; $41,651 additional billed by the Champaign
County ESC above the signed contract; $1,000 for Champaign County Family
and Children First Cluster support; $3,136.02 for books and professional
development.
. Approved the five year forecast.
. Accepted the Ohio K-12 network program grant for FY2007 in the amount
of $9,000.
. Accepted the donation of 36 lettered padded chairs for the middle
school gym at $3,533 from the Triad junior basketball association.
. Approved use of facilities for girl scouts and youth wrestling.
. Approved the 2006-2007 bus routes.
. Approved the 14-day trip to the South Pacific for the gifted and
talented class with teacher Erica Boone on the tentative timeline of
June 12-26. Currently six students are scheduled to attend with all trip
fees to be the responsibility of the student and their parents.
. Was informed that the school web-site www.triad.k12.oh.us has recently
been enhanced and updated.

North Union eyes add-ons to high school renovation project
By CHAD WILLIAMSON
North Union officials are finding that balancing the wants and needs
list of a building project is a slippery slope.
At Monday night's meeting school board members discussed several
upgrades to the high school renovation project that will be funded by
the district.
Superintendent Richard Smith said he had compiled a list of locally
funded initiatives for the high school renovation project. After talking
to members of the community he shifted the priority of the initiatives
around a bit.
The prioritized list includes:
1. A pitched roof, rather than a flat roof, which could cost $250,000.
2. Additional gym space, which would not be a second gym.
3. High school swing space to be used during the renovation.
4. Geothermal energy.
5. Additional classroom space.
6. A reconfiguring of the high school administration offices.
7. A choir room.
8. Improving site conditions.
Smith said he had some reservations about moving additional gym space so
high on the list, but it was consistently mentioned by community members
he spoke with. Board member Dennis Hall asked why swing space wasn't the
number one item on the list. Smith said the district knows it will have
to pay for temporary classroom space as portions of the high school will
be closed during the renovations. He said because the temporary
classroom costs are a guarantee, it was not placed high on the priority list.
But one board member felt that the swing space should not be a temporary
issue. Later in the meeting Kevin Crosthwaite said the district was
throwing away money with its plan to lease modular classrooms.
District treasurer Scott Maruniak said the district is looking to lease
six modular units for two years at a cost of about $220,000.
Crosthwaite made a motion to amend the motion to seek modular classrooms
to instead build a permanent facility. After the meeting Maruniak said
such a facility would cost $500,000 to $800,000.
Crosthwaite said he would like to see the district retain some value
after the swing space is no longer needed. Board member Jon Hall, and
other board members, said such a building could be used for little more
than an athletics building after it serves its purpose as classroom space.
Hall added that with less than $1.5 million to use toward locally funded
add-ons to the project, the district has to limit big expenditures that
swallow large portions of that budget.
Board member Donald Tumeo said he would rather see such money put toward
additional educational space, rather than put into a building that would
eventually benefit athletics.
Crosthwaite's motion failed 4-1.
The original motion, to pursue modular classroom space, was then passed 5-0.
Smith laid out a timeline for the districts construction projects,
including the high school renovation and new middle school construction.
Smith said the state money for the high school renovation should come in
December, with renovation beginning in the spring or summer of 2007. The
renovation is slated to be completed in 2009.
The middle school construction project will see design work this year
with a groundbreaking slated in 2008. The new building will open in 2009.

United Way auction goes online
United Way of Union County is seeking support with the first-ever Online
Community Auction.
Bidding continues through 6 p.m. Oct. 30 and 100 percent of the sale of
all auction items will be used to support UW programs and services in
the county.
To participate, go to www.unitedwayofunioncounty.org.
Items currently available include a DVD player, television, scooter and
autographed sports items.
An added incentive is the Community Care Card, available to anyone who
spends $100 or more on the auction. The card offers free and discounted
services at 11 area businesses.

Monument groundbreaking set
Editor's note: The following information is supplied by the Union County
Veteran's Remembrance Committee.
---
The Union County Veterans Remembrance Committee's Monument Plaza Design
Team can finally breathe a collective sigh of relief.
After six months of volunteer effort, the detailed plans for the
Veterans Plaza and Monument, honoring all Union County veterans, past,
present and future are now completed.
Plaza Design Team members Scott Underwood (chairman), Esther Carmany,
Oscar Decker, Scot Draughn and Juan Gimeno (architect and lead designer,
Creative Architectural Solutions, Inc.), Clarence Durban, Rev. Jack
Groat, Le Herron, Harold Hill, Karen Long, Sean Longstreth (Longstreth
Memorials, Eric Phillips, Randy Riffle, Alan Seymour, Dave Vollrath, Jim
Mitchell and Larry Wright (architects, Meacham and Apel Architects,
Inc.) utilized their talents to create a setting for the monument
incorporating pathways, landscaping, seating and lighting to compliment
the existing Union County Courthouse. The result is a visitor friendly
memorial that provides the community with a touchstone of pride and
cultural preservation.
The groundbreaking ceremony on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2006 at 11 a.m. on
the plaza site at Fifth and Court streets in Marysville, will launch
this project into its next phase of development. At 1:30 p.m. that day,
the Air National Guard Great Lakes Band will perform a concert at the
Veterans Auditorium on Sixth Street. The general public is invited to
attend both of these events.
Following the groundbreaking, the construction of the plaza and monument
will begin, with the official dedication ceremony scheduled from Armed
Forces Day, May 19, 2007 at 11 a.m. For those wishing to have their
donations and/or paver purchases recognized as part of the ceremony, two
other key dates are important to note: Jan. 15, 2007 - last date to
order a concrete or granite paver and have it in place for the
dedication ceremony; and, March 15, 2007 - last date for receipt of
Patriot Donations for inclusion in the dedication brochure and newspaper
listing. These are deadlines for the official dedication ceremony only,
so purchases or donations made after that time will still be included in the monument.
For contracting purposes during the construction phase of this project,
the Union County Veterans Remembrance Committee incorporated as a
non-profit corporation under the name of The Union County Veterans
Remembrance Commission. Upon completion of the project, the commission
will donate the Monument Plaza to Union County. A financial reserve for
all future maintenance and updates will be held by the Union County Foundation.
At the present time, $460,000, has been raised toward the original
$500,000 goal for the primary phases of this project, which means that
the Union County Veterans Committee still needs help in reaching its
target. For more information on how to purchase a paver, or on how to
become a Patriot Donor, those interested may visit the Web site at
www.co.union.oh.us and select Veterans Memorial. Additional information
can be found by contacting Esther Carmany at ecarmany@columbus.rr.com or
the Union County Foundation at (937) 642-9618. Donations can also be
forwarded to The Veterans Remembrance Fund, c/o the Union County
Foundation, PO Box 608, Marysville, Oh., 43040.

Next community concert will have a dose of comedy
The Great Kaplan Show is coming to Union County on Oct. 26 as part of
the 2006-07 community concert series.
Conceived and performed by Kaplan, the virtuoso juggler, magician,
inventor, musician and physical comedian are all wrapped up into one
eccentric performer who invites the audience into the humorous show.
Whether he's juggling bean bag chairs, playing a melody on concert
balloon or levitating a bowling ball, Kaplan's preposterous blend of
dazzling skill and shameless gimmickry is sure to amaze and amuse.
Notable shows include a recent performance as guest balloonist with the
Columbus Symphony Orchestra and network television appearances on ABC
TV's "The View" and "The Statler Brothers Show" on TNN.
Kaplan has headlined internationally on major cruise lines from Alaska
to the Mediterranean to Tahiti. He has also opened shows for numerous
renowned entertainers including Steven Wright, Dennis Miller, David
Spade, Leon Redbone, David Brenner, Harry Blackstone Jr. and the
Smothers Brothers.
Since the early 1980s, Kaplan has delighted audiences of all ages with
his highly original act. Inspired by the antics of Keaton, Sellers,
Victor Borge and the illustrious Maxwell Smart among others, Kaplan
delivers a most unique and hilarious spectacle.
Kaplan's greatest talent may lie in his uncanny ability to appeal to a
wide cross-section of the audience. Spectators, young and old are
welcomed into a wonderfully strange world they will not soon forget.
He resides in Columbus with his wife and two children.
Joining Kaplan is David Dewitt who has been playing professionally since
the age of five, starting out as a piano whiz. Over the years, he has
become proficient on acoustic bass, organ, percussion, and steel drums.
He has recently become enamored with the guitar.
Since first meeting Kaplan more than 25 years ago, the two have become
the best of friends and have corroborated on various musical endeavors,
including their steeldrum band "The Sun Kings." Dewitt has toured
nationally with Kim Pensyl, and remains a revered fixture on the
Columbus jazz scene.

Strikers prepared for the 'long haul'
By RYAN HORNS
As negotiations with Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. remain in limbo
nationwide, United Steelworkers Union members were camped out next to a
small fire Thursday morning in Marysville, holding picket signs for
passing cars along Industrial Parkway.
"There are no new developments in negotiations," Goodyear spokesman Ed
Markey said Tuesday. "No formal talks are scheduled, although the lines
of communication remain open."
Company officials have reported that the company will be maintaining
production at nonunion plants and will depend on salaried employees and
imports at others.
Questions posed to the Marysville Goodyear plant about the strike were
referred to Markey at the company's national headquarters.
Workers at 16 Goodyear plants in 10 states and Canada went on strike
Oct. 5 after the world's third largest tire maker and the steelworkers
union failed to agree on a new labor contract. The old contract for
Goodyear workers reportedly expired July 22 and both sides agreed to an
indefinite day-to-day extension.
The United Steelworkers Union has reported that the company's latest
proposal would have included two plant closings - something workers did
not agree with. The union then issued a 72-hour notice stating they
would terminate the contract at midday Oct. 5 if an agreement wasn't reached.
United Steelworkers Union Local 8436 spokesman John Rutherford said
Wednesday that he had just taken part in a conference call regarding the
strike and that "not a whole lot is going on right now" in negotiations.
"Everybody is still out there on the (picket) line," he said.
Media reports have stated the union and Goodyear planned to meet
Saturday to continue negotiations. Rutherford reiterated that the report
was not accurate, because workers still have issues with their contract.
He explained that the union agreed to a plant closing in 2003. At the
time workers gave up two years of seniority on their pensions, allowed
an increase in medical co-pay costs and retirees also suffered in the
final agreement.
After the workers gave in on those issues, he said, the company turned
around and gave millions in salary bonuses to its top officials. Now
they are asking workers to agree to more plant closings.
"(The workers) felt pretty betrayed on that," Rutherford said.
On the other side, Goodyear officials have reported that the union
refused to agree to help the company remain competitive in a global
economy. It says its latest offer protected jobs and provided for
retiree medical benefits.
In Marysville, workers are maintaining their spots on the picket line at
the Goodyear plant on Industrial Parkway. Standing along the street,
union member Rick Hendricks said workers will continue to do what they
need to do during this strike.
"We gave in a lot before," he said. "We don't want to give in this time."
Hendricks said that either way the union members are "prepared for the long haul."
As union members, he said, workers know it is wise to save their money
in case a strike comes along. While most do, others depend solely upon
union relief funding.
For the most part, Rutherford said, people out on the picket lines are
optimistic that the strike will be over in a relatively short amount of time.
"No one is going to lose their homes over this," Hendricks said.
Rutherford said the larger issue has to do with the need for the
government to protect American workers by making laws against shipping
jobs overseas.
"Sooner or later they have to start doing something to preserve jobs in
the United States," Rutherford said.
He said the Marysville Goodyear plant has allegedly been dealing with
the strike by bringing in a number of salaried workers to help keep the
plant operational. Salesmen who had been working on the road were called
in from such areas as New Jersey, Iowa, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and
more to work at the plant. He knows that the main plant presses have not
been started yet. Although two other smaller units, such as for wires,
have been operational.
"I'm not sure they knew how difficult it is to run the equipment,"
Rutherford said.
Out on the Industrial Parkway picket line, he said the community
response has been positive. People have donated food, coffee and support
as they drive by.
"I'm not going to lie, there have been one or two negatives," Rutherford
said. "But for this area we have been doing very well."

City Gate's first occupants announced
By RYAN HORNS
Ground was officially broken this morning for the new City Gate
development on the city's east side.
Developer Philip Connolly invited city government officials, local
business owners, friends and family for the event, which took place in
the former Pro-Rite Muffler building next door to Burger King.
"We're really excited about today," Connolly said.
City Gate is a new upscale retail-commercial development designed to
highlight and enhance the entry into Marysville's east side. Once
complete, it will be home host to several new restaurants, offices and
retail businesses. The new development will fill a niche in Marysville,
by offering premium lots in a high-visibility area, to businesses
needing a small to mid-sized piece of ground.
To go along with the groundbreaking was the announcement of the
following businesses, soon to be coming to City Gate:
. Delaware County Bank
. Walgreens
. Bob Evans
. White Castle
. Two medical office buildings by the Worthington based company, D&L Development.
Out of 18 possible lots for the City Gate development, Connolly said,
these businesses represent a small percentage of what is to come. He
reported that more restaurants and a major hotel will also be announcing
their new locations inside City Gate.
Speaking to everyone in attendance at the event, Connolly said the
groundbreaking this morning culminates more than 12 years of work and
planning to make his vision a reality. He said the event was made even
more special by the fact that today is the 59th anniversary of the
Connolly Construction Company.
Connolly is the second president and owner of Connolly Construction Co.,
which he took over in 1977 from his father Roscoe "Dutch" Connolly, who
started the company Oct. 13, 1947.
To help with the groundbreaking ceremony, Connolly invited one of the
first employees of the company to help turn the first shovel of dirt on
the project. Dwight Story joined the development company at its
inception and was one of Dutch Connolly's best friends. Story served
more than 30 years as a Vice-president.
Connolly said Story's involvement in the groundbreaking ceremony helps
remind everyone of the strong history in Marysville and the progress
people can make, working together as the city continues to grow.
"It's always important for us to remember where we came from," Connolly
said. "Dwight Story is a symbol of that to me."
He said part of the City Gate site incorporates ground once home to
Connolly Construction's main office and shop facility. City Gate also
borders Connolly and Buerger streets, which Dutch Connolly named for his
wife and his parents.
Regarding businesses coming into City Gate, Delaware Avenue Burger King
owner Dave Laslow said he is excited by the future of the city's east side.
"People attract people," Laslow said. "What we have seen in this area
has just been wonderful."
Delaware County Bank president Jeff Benton said he also looks forward to
his new branch going into City Gate.
"It's going to be a great entrance to the city," he said.
Benton added that the Marysville branch of the Delaware County Bank will
remain open at 1169 W. Fifth St. However, the downtown branch will be closing.
With the inclusion of another Bob Evans restaurant, it is unknown at
this time what will happen to its current location on Delaware Avenue.
In addition, Pro-Rite Muffler has already opened up its new location on
West Ninth Street. The former location will be used as a construction
headquarters, until it is turned into the future Delaware County Bank site.
Connolly reported that the first businesses of City gate are scheduled
to open in the summer of 2007.

Crossing opening to take longer than expected
By RYAN HORNS
Even with the announcement of federal funding paying for an upgrade at
the East Fifth Street rail crossing, reopening the crossing is expected
to take longer than anticipated.
During Thursday night's Marysville City Council meeting Mayor Tom Kruse
reported that railroad authority CSX would not be making concrete panel
repairs to the closed east side crossing.
The federal funding was going to enable the road to be re-opened in a
little more than a year. However, without the concrete panel work
included in the fall CSX repair schedule, it would mean delays after the
upgrade is completed.
"I'm disappointed to hear that," councilman Dan Fogt said. "Won't that
be a problem getting (CSX) back to do the repairs in a timely manner?"
Kruse explained that the railroad crossing is going to be getting safety
lights and crossing arms. When the work is ultimately completed the road
would have to be widened and then CSX would have to move the safety
lights and arms again. Until the upgrade is completed, he is not going
to allow the concrete panel repairs.
At the Sept. 28 council meeting council president John Gore had stated
$6,000 was allocated for the East Fifth Street concrete railroad panels.
He wanted to see those ready to go before the railroad is upgraded.
Kruse said once the East Fifth Street upgrade is moving forward, the
city will take part in a pre-construction meeting. At that time the
concrete panels will be dealt with.
In other discussions, Fogt also asked Kruse about the situation at South
Park, located across from the Timberview Golf Course. Water has been
collecting in the park where it hasn't been collecting in the past. The
Marysville Wastewater Treatment Plant reported only 1/2 inch of rain in
the last week ? not enough to cause the flooding going on at the park.
Fogt said neighbors surrounding the park have noted standing water on
higher ground, where there wasn't before. The problem may be that Adena
Pointe developers cut off the underground drainage tile, causing the
current flooding. He added that he noticed Adena Pointe has three
drainage ponds mostly completed off of Weaver Road and there should be
no reason for the increased flooding at South Park.
"The drainage is not as good as it was two months ago," Fogt said.
He said he hopes Adena Pointe can at least make the area drain as well
as it used to be. Because of the increased water, geese and ducks have
also begun gathering, which is creating a mess.
Gore asked Fogt if he knew for sure Adena Pointe had cut off a tile and
then suggested perhaps the city look into it.
Kruse said he would have someone go out to the park and investigate.
"You know how those old tiles are," Kruse said. "Nobody seems to know
where they are."
In other business:
. Council passed an ordinance to double the current payment, from $25 to
$50, for compensation for members of city boards and commissions. At the
Sept. 28 meeting, councilwoman Leah Sellers' proposal to only raise the
fee to $35 failed in a council vote.
. Economic Development Director Eric Phillips handed out the completed
Design Review Standards for the Uptown Marysville Historic District. He
said the booklet has been more than two years in the making and it ended
up a success.
. Kruse appointed Pat Soller to the Planning Commission, effective until
Oct. 31, 2010.
. Phillips also reported that the National Guard has a meeting Monday at
5:30 p.m. at the YMCA to discuss details on the future Armory. He said
the groundbreaking for the building should take place by the first of the year.
. Gore addressed the topic of creating an ordinance regarding sexual
predators within Marysville. He appointed a committee to look into a
future ordinance, to be headed up by council vice president Ed Pleasant.
The committee can take a look at ordinances from other cities in order
to create their own.
. Councilman Dave Burke commended city finance director John Morehart
for his impressive work on the 2005 budget. The post audit was conducted
and no significant faults were found.
. Kruse hired the city's new assistant city engineer, who will start in
two weeks. Terms were also reached to hire the new city planner,
although no starting date has been finalized.
. Kruse passed out advance copies of the 2007 budget for city council's perusal.

Tolles Tech worker arrested for alleged sex crime
From J-T staff reports:
A male employee in a career center just outside of Union County could
face years in prison for alleged sexual contact he had with a teenage student.
Lt. Roger Roberts of the Clark County Sheriff's Office Investigations
Division said that a telephone tip led to the arrest of Bob Freeze, 56,
of Springfield. Freeze was an employee of Tolles Career and Technical
Center outside of Plain City.
He said Freeze has been charged with one count of unlawful sexual
conduct with a minor, one count of sexual battery and one count of
disseminating matter harmful to juveniles - all of which are
fourth-degree felonies.
Roberts said the investigation into Freeze began after the Clark County
Sheriff's Office received a call from a Tolles Career and Technical
Center Human Resources Department employee reporting possible sexual
abuse. The school employee said that a 15-year-old male told a school
counselor that Freeze had been sexually molesting him for up to a year and a half.
Freeze has been employed as a technical supervisor at Tolles Career and
Technical Center, located at 7877 on Route 42. He has held the position
since July, 2003. In addition, Freeze was a school board member at
Northwestern Local Schools for the past 13 years. In the past, he had
taught high school and middle school students and a former director of
adult education and business operations at the Springfield-Clark County
Joint Vocational School.
"We conducted an investigation and based on that we made
an arrest," Roberts said.
He said the sheriff's office received the call on Oct. 6 and ended up
making the arrest the same day. As to the details of the specific crimes
and why they believe Freeze was involved, no information is available.
"I can't release information on that at this point," Roberts said.
"However, the trial will go into it."
Freeze was placed into the Clark County Jail after his arrest and he was
arraigned Tuesday in court.
Roberts said no other court dates have been scheduled as of Thursday
morning that he knew of.

Donation benefits humane society
From J-T staff reports:
One animal-loving couple is helping the Union County Humane Society to
control animal over-population.
Sandy and Andy Ross made a contribution to purchase needed surgical
equipment and a financial commitment to hire a part-time veterinarian.
"Spay/neuter programs are so vital. It's heart wrenching to see so many
unwanted animals overwhelming the shelters," said Sandy Ross. "We wanted
to make a meaningful impact and we knew this was the way to do it."
The Ross' gift will enable the UCHS to ensure that all adopted dogs and
cats are spayed or neutered before leaving the building.
"So many dogs and cats end up in the shelter just because they were
born. The Ross' are helping to end that vicious cycle," Rachel Finney,
UCHS executive director said.
"There are three things we can do to make sure that dogs and cats have
safe and loving homes,", said. "The first is to provide educational
resources to ensure that people are making good decisions about bringing
pets into their homes. The second is to provide the support needed to
keep that pet successfully in the home when problems arise. The third is
to promote spaying and neutering."
For the past two years, volunteer veterinarians spayed or neutered -
surgically sterilized to prevent unwanted litters - all cats adopted
from UCHS prior to adoption.
A lack of resources - time, funds, supplies and physical space -
prevented UCHS from surgically sterilizing the overwhelming number of
dogs. A coupon program was used instead. If a dog were in-tact at the
time of adoption, adopters signed a contract to have the dog spayed or
neutered within 30 days and received coupon for a reduced-cost surgery
at local participating veterinarians.
More than 1,100 dogs and cats will enter the Union County Humane Society
animal shelter this year, and the number is expected to grow.
Al Burnard, UCHS operations manager, said, "With the county contract for
stray dogs, we often operate at 150 percent or more capacity for dogs
and that made it difficult for our volunteers to keep up with the
surgeries."
The majority of adopters complied with the contract, but several did
not, Finney said.
"In essence, we were only furthering the growing problem of companion
animal over-population in our community by allowing in-tact dogs to
leave our building. It really hit home for me when a dog we adopted-out
came to the shelter pregnant less than one year later."
The UCHS is a private 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Our mission is to
connect people with animals and enrich lives by providing care and
resources while promoting respect and compassion.

Busy rail crossing to close for 10 days
By RYAN HORNS
While railroad crossing repairs are much-needed in Marysville, upcoming
road closures across town will require a lot of patience from local residents.
According to a city of Marysville press release, beginning Thursday,
Oct. 12, the Delaware Avenue railroad crossing will be closed for
approximately 10 days as CSX workers make repairs.
City administrator Kathy House reported this morning that the city and
CSX will close the Delaware Avenue crossing by 8 a.m. Thursday morning.
"Barricades will be installed on both sides of the crossing, preventing
through traffic, which will still allow full access to adjacent
businesses," the city release states.
Marysville officials have suggested these alternate routes in lieu of the closing:
. Drivers may take Columbus Avenue to Industrial Parkway, as a way to
connect to Coleman's Crossing Boulevard and the other side of Delaware Avenue.
. Drivers may take such roads such as U.S. 33, Route 4 or the U.S. 36
bypass in order to access the other side of Delaware Avenue.
"The City of Marysville and CSX appreciate residents' patience during
this much needed repair project," the release states.
With East Fifth Street already closed at the railroad crossing, the
Delaware Avenue closure is expected to cause more traffic problems on
the already congested area of Five Points and Coleman's Crossing.
When asked if Marysville administration planned on re-opening the East
Fifth Street railroad crossing to alleviate traffic congestion for the
duration of the 10 day project, House said that will not happen.
"The East Fifth Street crossing will not be opened for any reason until
crossing gates and lights have been installed per the PUCO and ORDC's
recommendations," House said.
Both of the Ohio railroad authorities have suggested keeping the East
Fifth Street crossing closed until the gates and lights are installed in
approximately a year from now. Government grants are expected to cover
the cost of those additions at that time.
House also provided an update on additional CSX railroad crossing
repairs expected throughout the city. She said the Main Street crossing
is scheduled to be closed next Wednesday morning, Oct. 18, also at 8 a.m.
"It is possible that both of these crossings could be closed
simultaneously for a few overlapping days," House said, referring to Delaware Avenue.
She said that the Industrial Parkway railroad crossing will be closed
for repairs in approximately two weeks. More details on that part of the
project are expected to be released later, although she said the
Industrial Parkway crossing rails for vehicles (concrete panels) will be
completed prior to its opening.

Family takes in lost racing pigeon; sends it on its way
From J-T staff reports:
A storm-tossed, weary traveler found rest at a Miller Road home recently
before continuing on its journey.
A racing pigeon apparently lost its way or became tired during the
weekend before finding help from the Lynn Beeney Family.
Zach Beeney, 16, first noticed the "beautiful, shimmery gray" bird
Saturday afternoon on the ground in their horse field. It was obvious to
them that the bird had been taken care of and appeared tame. It also had
three plastic bands around a leg.
The bird eventually meandered to a machine shed where Lynn and 13
year-old son Matt were working. Fearing that the bird might get injured,
Matt put the bird in a cage and Shelley began investigating.
After searching on the Internet for 20 minutes and typing the
information she found on the leg bands, Shelley discovered that GNEO
stood for a club that the bird probably belonged to. Not sure if she was
on the right track, she called the club president at 10 p.m.
She learned that the bird was one of 1,125 which left Freedom, Ind., on
Sept. 29 for a 300-mile race to the Cleveland area. The first bird back
traveled 1,450 yards per minute or approximately 50 miles per hour.
"Our bird had two permanent leg bands, one had his age, his number 2160
and the club name GNEO," Shelley said.
The club president speculated that the bird that had landed at the
Beeney Farm was a young bird and probably got lost or tired in the
Saturday storms.
The Beeneys were asked to keep the bird for three days and feed it whole
corn and sugar water. Then they were to release the bird 10 miles from
their farm heading northeast.
The first day, the bird slept. The second day it became more mobile and
by day three, it was "antsy," she said.
"We released him on Oct. 3. He was strong and flew away like he knew
where he was going," Shelley said.
The club president said he would let them know when their visitor returned home.

Bridge reopens
Marysville residents will be giving out less directions to wayward
drivers and Main Street traffic will be rid of constant semi trucks
passing through, now that a bridge closed in Milford Center has reopened.
The Ohio Department of Transportation reported that it has completed the
$920,000 bridge deck replacement project on U.S. 36/Route 4 in Milford
Center. Throughout construction, drivers have been detoured through
Marysville's Main Street.
ODOT reported that the project, which began in mid-June, required the
road to be completely closed during construction. The route reopened to
traffic on Tuesday afternoon.
While construction is completed, some cosmetic treatments will carry
over to next construction season. Due to declining temperatures, bridge
painters will return in 2007 to paint the bridge.
The original bridge was constructed in 1953. Becdir Construction Company
of Berlin Station was the prime contractor on this project.

A implements savings measures
Refinances millions of dollars in bonds
By CORINNE BIX
In an effort to save the district $625,000, the Jonathan Alder Board of
Education approved the refinancing of $24.9 million bonds over the next 18 months.
Janis Thom, treasurer, reported that the 30-year-bonds will be
refinanced in two if not three installments at a savings of $20,000 to
25,000 per year. The four present board members approved the motion.
Steve Votaw, board president, was absent from Monday night's meeting.
Plain City Elementary underwent its first security drill this past week.
Carpenter explained, after the meeting adjourned, that the district has
had a crisis plan in effect for some time. However, in light of recent
school tragedies and to comply with government mandates the district
will begin having routine security drills at all five district buildings.
The board was informed of the "Battelle for Kids" added pilot project
for the high school. Elementary students have been participating in the
program for the past five years. "Battelle for Kids" website states the
program is "a nonprofit organization committed to enhancing student
learning by bringing clarity to school improvement."
Dave Thorbahn, Union County Chamber of Commerce, presented a
proclamation recognizing the district's excellent state report card rating.
The board established procedures for compliance with Ohio Revised Code
2909.33 in regard to the Metropolitan Educational Council (MEC.) The MEC
works with school districts to help fulfill administrative needs
including payroll, data processing, grades/attendance, and bidding on
building projects. The resolution recognizes that Jonathan Alder is
aware that the MEC will not hire vendors who are contributing to or
benefiting from a terrorist organization.
The board adjourned into executive session to consider the appointment,
dismissal, discipline, promotion, demotion or compensation of a public
employee. No action was taken. The next board meeting will be Nov. 20 at 7 p.m.
In other news, the board:
Approved the financial report for September 2006 and the five-year forecast
Learned that Tolles Technical and Career Center will be installing a new
sign featuring the center's updated logo.
Recognized the following students for scoring in the top 5 percent of
all 1.4 million student that took the PSAT last year and being named
"commended students" by the National Merit Scholarship program - Clayton
Greenbaum, Destiny Gingerich and Luke Benedict.
Recognized various students for passing Advanced Placement tests given last spring.
Recognized the many volunteers who helped with the Plain City Carnival.
Recognized Katie Troyer for exemplary safety as noted by a parent.
Accepted the following resignations - Joe Higgins as junior high head
wrestling coach and Doug Wampler as junior high assistant wrestling coach.
Approved Kelly Urban as a limited English proficient tutor.
Approved Brynn Craney as a fifth grade language arts teacher.
Approved Wendi Mitchell as a long-term substitute for Rene Cramer.
Approved Kimberly Smejkal as speech therapist.
Approved various certified/classified substitutes, PATS staff and
Pathwise evaluators.
Approved Joshua Schrock, Kara Schrock and Cole Schrock as open
enrollment students.
Approved various in-lieu of transportation requests for students
Accepted the donation of several volumes of literature from Floyd
Dickman for the high school library.

Unionville Center fills two council positions
By AUDREY HALL
The village of Unionville Center has two new councilmen, thanks to
action taken during Monday evening's meeting.
The two vacant seats were filled by the appointment of Jim Weese and
Mary Lou Morris.
Weese is filling the seat formerly held by Denver Thompson, who also
served as mayor, with a term expiration of 2008. Morris is filling the
seat vacated by the resignation of Larry Burchett with a term expiration of 2010.
Trick or Treat night will be Tuesday, October 31 from 6 to 8 p.m.
The estimate of $65 per hour for leaf pick up submitted by Todd Fultz
and Mike Kuhn, Jr. of Lawn Plus Property Maintenance was accepted. The
date for pick up will be Saturday, November 11 with November 18 as the rain date.
Lawn Plus Property Maintenance has also been hired to clean the storm
sewer drops following leaf pick up.
A building permit for additions of a room, garage and front porch as
well as aeration system tie in for 512 Fourth Street requested by
Wendall and Judith Beachy was approved.
Representing residents whose properties border the alley between First
and Third Street, Weese suggested that the village neither grade nor add
gravel to the alley since it is seldom used. Council agreed to make no
improvements at this time but may consider them at a later date.
Estimates for snow removal will be accepted and opened at the November
council meeting. Estimates must include proof of liability insurance.
In other business, council:
.Again tabled discussion of golf carts within the village.
.Passed a resolution accepting property tax rates and amounts as
determined by the Union County Budget Commission
.Approved a letter of support for the designation of Middleburg-Plain
City Road, which within the village is Main Street, as part of the Ohio
Scenic Byway system

Richwood Council hears update on BZA action
By CHAD WILLIAMSON
Richwood Village Council heard an update on questions previously posed
by citizens in regard to a conditional use permit for a business at 288 Grove St.
Residents had raised several concerns about the permit which was given
to a daycare facility/dance studio which is proposed for the property.
One concern raised was whether the BZA had authority to grant a
conditional use permit to a building which was not being inhabited.
Village Solicitor Victoria Stone Moledor said that a property does not
have to be occupied for a conditional use permit to be granted.
Another question raised was whether such a permit could be issued for
two adjoining parcels. Stone Moledor said that a conditional use permit
can cover two parcels.
Other questions centered around the process by which the permit was
granted, such as the fact that citizens were not given a chance to
comment on the issue and no petition was circulated to determine public
opinion. The solicitor said two public hearings were held to allow
citizens to comment and the BZA is not required to circulate a petition.
There were also issues with the facility being developed in a manner
different than what was submitted to the BZA, essentially that a
facility being built on the adjoining parcel is being staked out
contrary to what the original plans stated. Stone Moledor said the
structure must comply with Union County building permit codes and beyond
that if the developer shows good faith to work within the limits of the
conditional use permit it is not a violation.
Mayor Bill Nibert also noted that council does not oversee the BZA.
Complaints about BZA action fall under the jurisdiction of the Union
County Court of Common Pleas.
In other business, council:
.Took no action on an ordinance to annex a 23.25 acre parcel into the
village. A question arose about an easement on the property and council
opted to finalize that issue before accepting the annexation.
.Heard an update on village projects from engineer Ed Bischoff.
.Learned from village administrator Larry Baxa that the low bid for the
town hall furnace project came in at $7,250.
.Discussed ownership of a bridge on Gill Street. The bridge, which is
owned by the village, is deteriorating and may need attention.
.Decided to deny a request of an abatement of $13 from an area
accounting firm because of an income tax error.
.Held an executive session to discuss a personnel issue. After the
session council decided to send the issue, which centered around an
employees request for overtime pay, back to Baxa for final
determination.

Hospital board member dies
Community leader Ann Allen died Monday following a courageous, five-year
battle with cancer.
Mrs. Allen currently served on the Memorial Hospital of Union County
Board of Trustees, joining in 1995 and serving as the board's chair for several years.
While under her watch the hospital underwent an extensive expansion and
renovation in information technology, the emergency room and the Miracle Life Center.
Among those surviving her are her husband, local attorney, David F.
Allen of Marysville and two children, P. David Allen II of Marquette,
Mich. and Catherine Allen of Falls Church, Va.

Ghosts of Ohio author to appear in Marysville
Editor's note: The following information is supplied by Nora Roughen,
Marketing Manager, Marysville Public Library.
---
Professional paranormal investigator, published author and founder of
Columbus-based "The Ghosts of Ohio," James A. Willis of Columbus will
appear in Marysville at the Veterans' Memorial Auditorium, 233 W. 6th
St., on Oct. 27 at 6:30 p.m.
Willis has been chasing after ghosts and visiting crybaby bridges for
more than 20 years. In 1999, he moved to Ohio and founded a nationally
recognized paranormal research organization, "The Ghosts of Ohio"
(www.ghostsofohio.org). He has given presentations throughout the state
on how one may hope to find evidence of the existence of ghosts.
In addition to co-authoring "Weird Ohio," Willis was also a contributing
author to "Weird US" (2004) and "Weird Hauntings" (2006). In 2006, he
was inducted into the Grand Order of Weird Writers. He has been featured
in numerous publications, television and radio programs, and live webcasts.
Willis said "The Ghosts of Ohio" is headquartered in Columbus with
fully-operational Ghost Outposts in Cincinnati and Cleveland.
Currently, there are more than 20 members located throughout the state.
"As far as current investigations go, we are involved with a private
investigation in northeast Ohio as well as one in central Ohio and two
in southern Ohio," Willis said.
Willis said Ohio has an unusually large amount of paranormal activity
and legends of paranormal activity.
"Personally, I think a lot of that has to do with Ohio being a unique
state - it's land-locked on the east and western sides and yet it has
large bodies of water and waterways to the north and south. Plus, throw
in an unusually high number of Bigfoot sightings (third highest in the
whole US) and dozens of Indian burial mound and you've got an area ripe
for growing some good, old-fashioned ghost stories and legends."
Willis said he can not remember the last time he was scared on an
investigation or by anything related to ghosts.
"I tend to get freaked out more by what I see while driving on Ohio's
highways. I never cease to be amazed (and frightened) by the things we
human beings do to each other. It's like I say, 'Ghosts I get. It's
humans that scare me.'"
Willis believes humans can communicate with spirits.
"I think sometimes people get so caught up in all the high-tech
equipment they forget that an integral part of communicating is to just listen."
The most satisfying part of his work is interacting with people,
especially individuals who contact him about activity going on in their homes.
"Most people don't contact us to find a ghost, but to provide them with
answers. Modern culture has given people a pretty distorted view about
ghosts and what they can do. Being able to provide people with a safe,
confidential place to go and get answers while having their fears calmed
is incredibly rewarding," Willis said.
The most grueling part of his job is the paperwork.
"You would be amazed at how much paperwork in
involved with a single investigation."
His favorite city/town in Ohio for paranormal research is Athens and
pretty much all of Summit county. He would like to do more research in
the Kirtland/Mentor area.
He said writing and researching "Weird Ohio" was a pretty amazing experience.
"Having a background in ghosts and urban legends, it was a blast to get
out into the land of the living and explore such roadside oddities like
the world's largest cuckoo clock, add my "piece" to the wall of gum, and
gaze upon a jar containing pickled human fingers!" he said.
He said a "Ghosts of Ohio" book is in the planning stages now and he has
signed a contract to co-author "Weird Indiana."
He said the best thing about his job that it fulfills his childhood dream.
"Ever since I was a child, I was fascinated with ghosts and ghost
stories. I couldn't get enough of them. Now, I am in a position where I
not only get to go and explore places where ghosts are said to linger,
but people from all walks of life seek me out to share their ghosts
stories with me. It doesn't get much better than that!"
This is a free program, tickets are required. Tickets are available at
the Marysville Public Library, Raymond Branch and at the Plain City
Public Library. This program is appropriate for ages individuals ages 12
years and older. For more information, log on to www.marysvillelib.org
or call 642-1876, extension 36

Man dies when moped hits van
From J-T staff reports:
A Marysville man died this weekend as a result of injuries caused from a
collision between a moped and a van.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol's Marysville Post, Charles
Troesch, 79, of 215 Windsor Court was pronounced dead Sunday at 3:20
a.m. by doctors at the Ohio State University Hospital.
Reports show that Saturday at 4:38 p.m. Troesch was riding his moped
southwest on Streng Road when he failed to stop for a stop sign and
struck the side of a van.
Nannette Emmons, 36, of 22185 Buck Run Road was driving the Honda
Odyssey van northwest on Middleburg Plain City Road when Troesch struck the side.
Emmons was not injured in the crash, and Troesch was MedFlighted from
the scene and later died from his injuries.

Marysville grad continues student service
By CORINNE BIX
For Jerry Tsai politics is in his blood.
The 2003 Marysville High School graduate just began his senior year at
University of Cincinnati as student body president.
Tsai, 21, said that he truly stands for the student government motto of
"Together we will move UC forward."
The motto has reached beyond the metaphorical meaning as Tsai and his
cabinet have helped to implement the Bearcat Transportation System.
This fall marks the second quarter that the transportation system has
been available to students.
Before spring of 2006, UC only offered a limited shuttle service to
students within the campus.
The BTS buses students in and around campus including nearby
neighborhoods and to local entertainment and nightlife.
Tsai said it is estimated that approximately 4,000-5,000 students live
off campus.
"The BTS allows safe and convenient transport for students to off campus
housing," Tsai said.
Currently Tsai and his staff are working on marketing the BTS system by
getting information on the service out to the students.
Tsai said it has been exciting to watch the BTS project unfold.
"I saw where it came from and I've had the opportunity to watch it
develop," Tsai said.
He said the next step in the project would be working on enhancing the
BTS system as a whole.
Tsai served in student government at MHS and was class president and
student body president his senior year.
Over his four years at UC, he has been active in student government,
serving as a senator at large and as chairperson of the governmental
affairs committee.
His desire to run as student body president came naturally.
"It seemed like the natural next step to positively better the
university and the serve the students as a whole," Tsai explained.
Next Spring, Tsai will have completed his course work for major in
Political Science. At this point he plans on staying for a fifth year at
UC to complete a minor in business.
After graduation he will look into various graduate programs and down
the road he sees himself continuing to serve in government.
"I would eventually like to run for elected office," Tsai said, "If so
fortunate to continue on in government I hope to eventually represent
larger groups of constituents and serve the good of the people."
No matter what Tsai knows that his future will be busy because he would
rather "be busy than boring."

Union County flu clinics set
The adult flu clinic schedule offers two options for immunization -
shots and nasal spray.
To date, the Centers for Disease Control has not set any restrictions on
who is eligible for flu shots, however, restrictions may be established
by the at any time during the flu season. Adult clinics are only open to
persons 9 years of age and older. Registration for clinics will not
begin until the specified time. All are based on availability of vaccine
and may be cancelled with little notice if vaccine is not available.
Clinics are scheduled for:
. Oct. 20 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Richwood Fire House, 602 N. Franklin St, Richwood
. Oct. 24 from 10 to noon at the Union County Health Department, 940 London Ave.
. Oct. 25 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Jerome Township Building, 9777
Industrial Parkway, Plain City
. Nov. 3 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at VFW Post 3320, 15237 Industrial Parkway
. Nov. 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the health department
. Nov. 21 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the health department
. Nov. 29 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the health department
. Monday through Friday, December through January, 8 to 9 a.m. at the
health department
FluMist(tm) nasal spray is only available on Oct. 24, Nov. 3, 17, 21, 29
and December through January, Monday through Friday. To be eligible for
FluMist nasal spray at a designated adult clinic, individuals must meet
all of the following criteria: age 9 to 49 years, healthy and not pregnant.
Cost for county residents is $20 for flu shots; $24 for spray; and $30
for pneumonia shots.
An additional $5 per shot is required for all non-county residents.
Medicare Part B and Medicaid will cover the cost of flu and pneumonia
shots, but Medicare and Medicaid cards must be presented at the clinic.
Child flu shots are available during normal child immunization clinics
at the Union County Health Department.
For additional information, contact the Union County Health Department's
flu hot at 645-2028.

MHS Marching Band having a successful season
Editor's note: The following story is submitted by Michelle Kelley,
Director of Communication, Marysville Bands.
---
The 2006-2007 Marysville High School Band, Class AA, otherwise know as
the Marching Monarchs, had some pretty big shoes to fill this year. Band
shoes that is.
The 2005-2006 Marching Monarchs took a 1 (superior rating) for state
finals last year with "El Toro Bonito" at Welcome Stadium in Dayton.
Well, so far, so good. This year's group of white-shoed high steppers
competing with "Unfurl the Sails" has not only received Superior ratings
for both contests they have participated in, but have taken grand
champion of both as well. This grants the 2006-2007 MHS Band the
distinction of being the first band in Marysville history to receive
grand champion twice in one season.
Between both competitions the band has also received honors for best
music, best percussion, best flag corp and best general effect.
Receiving a superior rating during competition allows the band to
qualify for state finals again this year, which these Marching Monarchs
did handily at their very first competition of the year.
The show's nautical theme seems to be a big hit with the crowds and the
judges. The band will perform Saturday at the Kettering Fairmont High
School Marching Band Classic, performance time should be shortly after 8 p.m.

Raising pieces of history
Group uses old techniques to save aging barns
By RYAN HORNS
A Marysville man wants people to know that historic barns don't have to
end up as fallen wreckage among roadside scenery.
Gene Moore, an employee of McAuliffe's ACE Hardware Store, is talking
about the Timber Framers Guild - a group of carpenters set on restoring
historic barns using the same methods farmers used before modern
machinery was invented.
Moore recently returned from a trip to Carriage Hill Metro Park in
Dayton for a workshop on timber framing. The workshop revolved around a
project to reassemble a barn taken down last fall.
He said the work shop included sorting and moving timber, repairing old
barn timbers, cutting new sills that included different joints and
cutting styles, frame assembly, followed by a ceremonial transfer of
ownership from the previous barn owner to the new owner, by driving the
first pegs. The project was concluded with a traditional barn raising,
with help from a team of horses.
At lunch, Moore said workers were treated to homemade farm-style dinners
as a thank you. Dinnerware used was old time stoneware and mason jar
drinking glasses. The meals were prepared and served by eight to 12
women wearing old fashion traditional long dresses, who are part of the
Friends of Carriage Hill organization. He said the entire process is
detailed on the guild's Web site.
Moore said the Timber Framer Guild that sponsored the work shop has four purposes:
. To encourage and provide training in timber framing.
. To disseminate information about timber framing and timber frame building design.
. To expose the art of timber framing to the public.
. To serve as a center of information about timber framing.
While he has a passion for restoring barns, Moore said, it is not
something he expects to make a living at. Instead, it is about the
simple joy of doing the work. He hopes to collect information on
historic barns in the area and use the knowledge to help in any way he can.
"My intention is not to make barn building a business," Moore said. "I
would be interested in keeping a list of barn projects in the area and
be a source for barn building information."
Moore became involved in saving old barns because of a barn belonging to
his family and an interest in timber framing. He also said it seemed
such a waste to let them go.
"The rebuilding of barns is an interest of mine. Much the same reason
why anybody that I talk to wants to save the old barns," he said. "It is
expensive to rebuild many barns as they have gone too long without
repair. However, one must remember that a rebuilt barn is a new building
and with today's foundation materials, proper placement, and a little
planning ahead, these barns can have several more 100 year lives."
The details of his work also fascinate him. He wants to learn how the
old barns were laid out and how farmers back then cut with such
precision. Even dealing with lumber that was cut down hundreds of years
ago sparks his imagination.
"The age of wood in these barns is history," Moore said.
Historic barns were often 300 years in the making, he said. A barn might
have been built 150 years ago, plus there is the 150 years it took to
grow the trees used to make it.
"What was going on in American history 300 years ago?" he said. "The
story that these barns would tell if they could talk. Many do have
something to say by markings on the timbers of initials, number of days
for rain and snow, crop yields, and construction changes over the years."
For more information on the Timber Framers Guild, those interested may
contact Moore at 937-243-4646 or e-mail him at n8yrf@arrl.net. To
contact the guild directly, those interested may call 888-453-0879 or
find them online at www.tfguild.com.
Another organization with similar duties is the Friends of Ohio Barns,
which can be found at http://ohiobarns.osu.edu.

N.L. continues to seek funding change
By CORINNE BIX
North Lewisburg will continue to fight for a more fair distribution of
state-funded local government funds and revenue assistance.
Last month during a special meeting, the council unanimously passed a
resolution that was presented to the Champaign County Budget Commission
contesting the distribution of local government funds.
Mayor Dick Willis, village administrator Barry First, village financial
officer Diane Davis and council member Jason Keeran met with the budget
commission to present the resolution. The group reported back to council
that the current configuration of funds hasn't been revisited since
1976. First said it was unclear to him as to what method or basis was
being used to currently distribute funds.
North Lewisburg is requesting that the distribution of funds be based on
population numbers and recalculated with every census.
First said that currently, North Lewisburg receives $22,000 in local
government funding while Mechanisburg receives over $53,000 and St.
Paris receives $48,000. Both municipalities have comparable populations
to North Lewisburg.
The budget commission members explained that the funding for the next
year is determined every August therefore if a change is made it would
not take effect until 2008. The budget commission is comprised of the
county auditor, treasurer and prosecutor.
First and Davis will begin to regularly attend the monthly budget
commission meetings.
"We were well received by the Champaign County Budget Commission and
they seemed willing to revisit and study the calculations by which the
local government funding is distributed countywide," First said.
For a change to occur all 21 political subdivisions within Champaign
County would have to vote and have a 51 percent majority vote. First
said that the commission did forewarn North Lewisburg village officials
that there might be resistance to change since a new calculation would
take from some and give to others.
First informed council members of an upcoming countywide flu shot clinic
on Oct. 25 from 1 to 6 p.m. at the Champaign County Fairgrounds. The
clinic will serve as a test-run in the event of a future pandemic. The
flu shots will be administered in a drive-through fashion in which those
participating will not leave their vehicles. They are projecting a
30-minute or less wait and the cost will be $18. Those interested should
bring their license or identification and Medicare/Medicaid cards. Cash
or check will be accepted.
The village has reached an agreement with The Meadows manufactured
housing development in regard to water meter installation. The village
will provide 80 meters to the Meadows as long as they pay for and
install all water meter system components. They will receive the same
water/sewer services as other village residents. The Meadows will also
be responsible for any re-stocking fees related to additional equipment etc.
The village will not be able to use a Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) for new playground equipment. The CDBG grant was denied for
playground equipment because the scope of the project didn't benefit a
large enough cross-section of the community as a whole. First explained
after the meeting adjourned that the highest priority criteria in
obtaining CDBG grant money is to meet low to moderate income levels,
which North Lewisburg is the contrary with some of the highest income
levels in Champaign county.
The $27,000 in CDGB money will instead be used to completely refurbish
the village park restrooms. First said, only the existing concrete shell
will be used in the remodel project.
The village has applied for a Natureworks grant through the Ohio
Department of Natural Resources for $9,500, which if received will be
put towards playground equipment.
The council heard the first reading of two ordinanances for water and
sewer rates. During last month's special meeting, the council
unanimously agreed to the new water meter rate schedule to take effect
in January. The new base rate for water and sewer will be $45 and
include 3,000 gallons of water. This was increased from the original
proposal of 2,000 gallons. The next 3,000 gallons used will be charged
at $3.06 for water and $5.68 for sewer. Every 3,000 gallons after that
will be charged at $3.85 for water and $5.11 for sewer.
The next council meeting has yet to be determined due to election day.
In other news:
. Deputy Glenn Kemp gave the Champaign County Sheriff's report for the
month of September. It included 17 traffic citations, seven warnings
issued for traffic violations, 13 incident reports, 34 cases of
assistance give to citizens, nine arrests made, six civil and criminal
papers served, 61 follow-up investigations, three open doors, four
instances of juvenile contact, two civic activities completed and three
auto accident reports taken.
. Beggar's Night will be Oct. 31 from 6-8 p.m.
. Progress on the Wastewater Treatment Plant and water meter
installation continues with all water meters to be installed by the end
of the month.
. The moving of the bridge project in conjunction with Union County
should be completed by Thanksgiving.
. Council heard a presentation by state representative candidate Adam
Ward.

ODOT cautions about placement of campaign signs
Public encouraged not to place signs along roadway
As election campaign signs begin to sprout up across the state, the Ohio
Department of Transportation (ODOT) is reminding the public that it is
illegal to post signs in the highway right of way.
"During this time of year we see a plethora of illegal signs popping
up," said ODOT District 6 Deputy Director Jack Marchbanks. "The signs
are a safety concern because they can cause sight distance problems,
especially at intersections. We are also concerned with the safety of
those people who pull off the side of the road to place the signs."
"While we will not be patrolling specifically for campaign signs, our
county crews will remove them if they are working in the area where
signs are posted," said Thomas Lyden ODOT District 6 highway management
administrator. "It's not just campaign signs that are problematic; we
are concerned with businesses placing any advertising signs along the roadway."
A good indication of the state right of way is either the fence line or
mowing line. Sidewalks and utility poles are typically located in the
state right of way. If the right of way cannot be determined, a visit or
phone call should be made to the local ODOT county garage for clarification.
Only those obstructions located on the state right of way will be
removed. Illegal signs that are removed will be stored at the ODOT
county garages for 30 days. Individuals can claim the signs during
normal business hours.

Jerome Township honors fireman
By CINDY BRAKE
There were tears during Jerome Township's Board of Trustees regular
meeting Monday night - tears for the loss of a local fireman, father and friend.
Firemen dressed in formal attire lined the back wall of the township
hall as Chief Scott Skeldon presented framed reminders of fellow fireman
Jeff Collier who died in May of lung cancer. His Unit #13 was formally
retired during the brief ceremony held during the meeting.
"The silent guy" whose forte was equipment and training, is how Skeldon
described Collier. A third-generation firefighter, Collier has served 23
years and earned the rank of lieutenant. Trustee Ron Rhodes, who has
worked closely with the fire department, said Collier "embodied the
spirit of the program" and adding that there would be "no Station 210
without the Collier family."
Collier was a full-time firefighter for the Washington Township Fire
Department in Dublin and had worked part time for the Jerome Township
Fire Department and road crew.
Frames were presented to Collier's widow, Missy, and three sons -
Brayden, 8; Hunter, 9; and Tyler, 11 - along with Jerome Township Fire
Captain Jay Olson and Trustee Bob Merkle. The frames include a color
photograph of Collier, his unit number and an inscribed plaque honoring
him for his dedicated service to the township fire department and citizens.
Skeldon said Collier's name has been inscribed on the Fallen Firefighter
Memorial in Colorado Springs.
Collier's father, Denzil, who heads up the township's road department,
said there were not enough words to thank the fire department for all
they had done for the family.
In regular business, trustees Rhodes and Merkle defended the township's
decision to hire an attorney for zoning matters.
Former trustee Freeman May said it was "outrageous" for township dollars
to be paying for an attorney to talk with developers while members of
the township zoning commission and board of zoning appeals can not talk
with the attorney unless approved by the trustees. May's son-in-law,
Kent Anders, is chairman of the zoning commission. According to trustee
minutes, Anders has that the procedures be given to him in writing.
Merkle said Jeanette Harrington, chairman of the board of zoning
appeals, has requested that the county prosecutor serve as legal council
for that board. The trustees concurred.
Merkle said the trustees are just trying to control costs.
"We're in a new league now," Rhodes said.
The trustees discussed a procedural matter concerning Zoning Resolution
Section 1021 and approved the transfer of $15,000 for health insurance.
Skeldon said an $8,000 grant will be used to purchase two new cots and
the fire department's open house is Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m.
Trick or Treat in the township will be celebrated Oct. 31 from 6 to 8 p.m.
The trustees then recessed into executive session for 10 minutes to
discuss personnel matters. Upon returning to open session, the board
voted to send a letter to zoning commission member Mike Buchanan who has
missed three meetings. He is being asked to notify township officials if
he is unable to attend, so alternate members can be called, Merkle said.

Appeals court upholds local ruling
From J-T staff reports:
A Union County woman convicted of providing illegal drugs that led to
the death of a Marysville teenager will remain in prison.
Union County Prosecutor, David Phillips reported Monday that Marsha
Shoemaker, who was convicted of drug trafficking, deception to obtain a
dangerous drug and involuntary manslaughter earlier this year, will stay
in prison for the next 14 years for causing the death of former
Fairbanks football player Justin Phelps.
Phillips said the result was from a decision by the Third District Court
of Appeals, which affirmed her conviction. The 30-page opinion, released
by the Court today, was unanimous in affirming the jury's verdicts of guilty.
"I am very pleased with the decision," Phillips said, who argued the
appeal before the Court of Appeals. "This is an important case and
important decision. We had a young man with promise who died as a direct
result of taking a lethal dose of morphine provided to him by Marsha
Shoemaker. The appellate court affirmed what I told the jury, 'the
person who was responsible for trafficking in these drugs is responsible
for the death that follows.'"
Shoemaker's defense reportedly argued that the drug trafficking charge
could not be used as an underlying offense for involuntary manslaughter.
Phillips said the appellate court rejected Shoemaker's argument and held
that the jurors could readily have concluded beyond a reasonable doubt
that "Justin's death was proximately caused by Shoemaker giving her
(morphine) pills to Justin."
He said the court's opinion "makes it clear that drug traffickers can be
held criminally responsible for their actions in putting these dangerous
drugs on the streets."
The prosecutor said that during the initial investigation, law
enforcement learned Shoemaker deceived her doctor to get a potent level
of morphine prescribed to her and then diverted the morphine by
providing it to the youth.
"The young man had no idea that this drug was so dangerous," Phillips
said. "He took the drugs Shoemaker had given him, overdosed and died."
Phillips noted that the local community has had a rash of so-called
'diversion' cases.
"Diversion happens when someone gets a prescription medication, and then
sells it on the street. It's illegal and extremely dangerous. We've had
several deaths and overdoses related to abuse of prescription medication
in Union county."
As a result of this case and others, Phillips said that the legal,
law-enforcement and medical communities have come together to try to
prevent future deaths.
"It's one thing to send the drug-trafficker to prison," Phillips said,
"but if at all possible, we'd rather prevent the death in the first place."
He said Union County Coroner David Applegate, Sheriff Rocky Nelson,
Marysville Chief of Police Floyd Golden and himself have met to develop
a strategy to prevent these types of crime.
"As a result of these meetings, we are presenting local physicians with
training on recognizing and preventing drug diversion at the annual
medical staff meeting in December."
Phillips said the training appears to be the first of its kind in the area.
Shoemaker was convicted by a Union County jury after an extensive
investigation into the boy's death.
"Cases of this sort require teamwork and cooperation among the various
agencies," Phillips said. "The excellent investigation by the Sheriff's
Office and forensic work by them and Coroner's Office made this case
provable in court."
Shoemaker was represented in her appeal by former prosecuting attorney
Alison Boggs.