- A new way of healing is in the air -
Wound Healing Center
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at the SOMC Wound Healing Center - Sonja Lichtenstein, MD -
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Serving All Of Jackson & Vinton Counties • www.thetelegramnews.com • Vol. CXXIII, Issue 30 • 75¢
Soldier killed in Afghanistan to be buried in Wellston Tuesday from the Columbus suburb of Grove City and graduated from Grove City High School in 1986. Apparently, he never lived in Wellston or Jackson County, but several local contacts have been told his grandparents lived on a farm near Wellston. The Telegram has been unable to confirm that information. Jackson County Veterans Service Officer Arnold Tripp learned late Thursday Sgt. First Class Hannon’s burial would take place in the city-owned-and-operated Ridgewood Cemetery at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday. As of Friday morning, Tripp knew no other details regarding the burial ceremony. Wellston Mayor Connie Pelletier Pictured is Sergeant First Class Shawn says the city will be honored to Hannon, who was one of three Ohio Army National Guard soldiers killed in salute the ultimate sacrifice of military action last week in Hannon by providing a police Afghanistan. He will be buried Tuesday escort from the city limits on State Route in Wellston’s Ridgewood Cemetery. 327 South, near the By Pete Wilson General Mills Plant, Executive Editor into the city on Pennsylvania Avenue and One of the three U.S. Army on to the cemetery on National Guard soldiers from A Street. The Jackson Ohio who were killed in County Sheriff’s Afghanistan last week has a Office plans to provide Jackson County connection and an escort from the will be buried next Tuesday, Ross/Jackson County April 17, in Wellston’s Ridge- line on U.S. Route 35 wood Cemetery. to Wellston city limits. Local officials confirmed Friday Mayor Pelletier also that 44-year-old Sergeant First reported the Wellston Class Shawn Hannon will be laid to Lions Club will have rest in Ridgewood Cemetery after a multiple U.S. flags in funeral in the Columbus area. place on Monument Sgt. First Class Hannon was Square at Broadway
Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. Also, the Wellston and Jackson Fire Departments will salute the fallen soldier at the entrance of the cemetery with their ladder trucks and a large American flag. Flags at the Wellston City Building were already at half-staff Friday. Details on the funeral in Columbus have not been released. The Ohio National Guard announced Friday an “honorable transfer” ceremony would be observed at Rickenbacker Air National Base in Columbus when the remains of the three soldiers arrive in Columbus this Saturday afternoon. Following the ceremony, the bodies will be taken to Columbus area funeral homes. Background Information Sgt. First Class Hannon, 36year-old Captain Nickolas Rozanki of Dublin, and 45-year-old
Sergeant First Class Jeffrey J. Rieck of Upper Arlington were all killed in an attack by a suicide bomber Wednesday, April 4, in the northern Afghanistan city of Maimanah. Four other soldiers, all from Ohio, were wounded in the same incident. According to The Associated Press, the suicide bomber was on a motorcycle when the blast occurred. It killed at least 13 people at a park in what had been a relatively peaceful area of Afghanistan. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. All three soldiers who were killed were members of the Ohio National Guard’s 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team and had arrived for duty in Afghanistan last January. The brigade deployed late in 2011
and early this year to train Afghan security forces and help with counter-insurgency operations, according to military officials. Sgt. First Class Hannon was a lawyer and had served as chief legal counsel for the Ohio Department of Veterans Services in Columbus. “Shawn felt it was a privilege to serve his country and did so honorably for almost 20 years,” his family said in a prepared statement. “He was proud to be a soldier and all who loved him knew it.” Ohio Department of Veterans Services spokesman Mike McKinney stated, “We’re just stunned, upset. He was a fantastic guy, a wonderful advocate for Ohio’s veterans.” Sgt. First Class Hannon and his wife, Jamie, have a 9-month-old son, Evan.
Kroger Fuel Center opens in Jackson
Coalton Pageant is Sunday By Steven P. Keller - Telegram Managing Editor
After this Sunday, April 15, the Village of Coalton will have new royalty as a Littlest Miss and Mister, a Little Miss and Mister, a Jr. Miss and Mister, a Miss Coalton, and a Coalton Queen will be named following a pageant to be held in the James A. Rhodes Community Building. The pageant will begin at noon. Registration will be $10 up to registration day. Those who don't register until Sunday will pay a registration fee of $15. Children must be Jackson County residents to enter. There is no theme for the Coalton Pageant during this first event. Coalton Mayor Kim Milliken told The Telegram, “This is NOT a glitz pageant and does not require formal wear. Over use of makeup on 1 to 10 year olds is strongly discouraged. Make-up on the 11 - 14 year olds should be age appropriate, and make-up on the 15 - 18 year olds is their choice.” Milliken said the type of wear will be Casual, Sunday Best, and Outfit of Choice. A short biography of the child’s likes and dislikes, what they aspire to be, and who their See COALTOM, A3
HOT OFF THE PRESS! The Anniversary Edition is here
Photo By Steven P. Keller
Pictured is the newly opened Jackson Kroger Fuel Center, which is located on East Main Street in front of the Jackson Kroger Store. The Fuel Center, which opened at 2 p.m. Thursday, offers gasoline, gum, candy, tobacco products, non-alcoholic beverages, washer fluid, and oil. Kroger grocery customers can earn points for fuel discounts. By Pete Wilson Executive Editor
The newly built Kroger Fuel Center in Jackson officially opened for business at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 12. The new Fuel Center is located on East Main Street on the front side of the Jackson Kroger Store at a site that was the long-time location of a BP service station. The new Fuel Center has 10 pumps and will sell gasoline while offering discounts on fuel to Kroger grocery-store customers. Other products sold from the kiosk will include gum, candy, tobacco products, non-alcoholic beverages, washer fluid, and oil. “The idea behind adding a Fuel Center is to create a onestop shopping experience for our customers,” stated Kroger Media and Government Relations Manager Jackie Siekmann. “With the addition of a Fuel Center, customers can get their groceries, prescriptions, and now their fuel in one stop. In today’s world, it’s all about convenience, and this
just makes life a little easier for our customers.” Kroger grocery-store customers will earn fuel points based on their purchases. For every dollar they spend in the store, they earn one fuel point. For example, a customer with 100 fuel points qualifies for a 10 cents-a-gallon discount up to $1. “This is a great way for customers to stretch their dollar a little further,” Siekmann noted. Construction on the Jackson Fuel Center began in December, but the relatively mild winter allowed the project to be finished ahead of schedule. “We are excited to be up and running in Jackson and look forward to serving our customers,” Siekmann concluded. The Jackson Kroger Fuel Center will be open seven days a week, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day. Access to the Fuel Center is open from the shopping center’s parking lot on the back side of the Fuel Center. Access to and from East Main Street is limited to right turns only into or out of the front side of the Fuel Center.
Three charged in Jackson Heroin bust By Pete Wilson Executive Editor
By Steven P. Keller - Telegram Managing Editor
If this issue of The Telegram feels a little thicker than usual, there is a reason. This is the Anniversary Edition, a special issue containing lots of stories written just for this once a year publication plus all the regular purely local news The Telegram always publishes for you. In addition to an increased number of stories, this issue will be distributed to many more households than usual and will reach some people who do not normally read any newspaper. These issues are meant to celebrate another year in business, to inform with regular news coverage, to entertain, to expose readers to new businesses which do not regularly advertise, and to expose areas of the region we may see, but don’t know much about. This Anniversary Edition was a true team effort with all members of The Telegram staff taking part, from circulation to sales, from design to editorial, and then to printing. After looking the proofs over, I am proud of what we have accomplished in this issue and hope you find it a pleasure to read. Plan to spend a bit of time with the paper in hand. With more than 40 pages, it is not a ten minute read.
Photo Courtesy Of Jackson Police
These syringes were among those confiscated during a search early Thursday morning at the residence of Jillian K. Eubanks at the Jackson Family Apartments. The syringe shown at the far left is loaded with Heroin, which shows up in the photo as the dark brown area. The spoon could have been used for cooking the Heroin.
Two men and one woman face felony-level charges after Jackson Police seized Heroin and drug paraphernalia at a local apartment in the early-morning hours Thursday, April 12. After receiving information from an informant that Heroin was in the residence, a search warrant was executed at 4:27 a.m. at the residence of Jillian K. Eubanks, Apartment 34 of the Jackson Family Apartments on Powell Drive. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, and probation department personel of the Jackson County Municipal
Court assisted in the search. According to police, the occupants didn’t answer the door when officers knocked and called to them so officers forced their way into the apartment. The three persons inside were ordered to get on the floor. Officers searched the apartment and found nine dosage units of Heroin as well as both loaded and unloaded syringes in several different locations in the apartment. Police arrested 26-yearold Eubanks; 27-year-old Samuel A. Parker of 72 Daisy Avenue, Jackson; and 23-year-old Kenneth Holden II of 1853 Horton Sisters See HEROIN, A3
Active and Reserve Duty, United States Navy – 33 years of service including a combat tour in Iraq Program Director, Jackson Auxiliary Officer, Jackson Police Department – 12 years Teacher, Jackson City Schools – 10 years Area YMCA – current Eagle Scout – 1978, Boy Scout Troop 48 Jackson High School – Graduated 1977 University of Rio Grande – Bachelor’s Degree 1986 Ohio University – Master’s Degree 1998 Married to Dr. Marla Haller – 27 years, 3 boys and 1 grandson
A2 • Wednesday, April 14, 2012
ANNIVERSARY • PUBLIC AFFAIRS
OBITUARIES Joseph B. Ruggles Joseph B. Ruggles, age 93, of Beaver, Ohio, passed away on Saturday, April 7, 2012 at Heartland of Jackson after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. He was born in Ribolt, Kentucky on September 24, 1918. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas M. and Minnie C. (Garrett) Ruggles; one son, Philip M. Ruggles; one great-grandson, Isaiah Ruggles; four brothers, Arvid, Thomas, Donald and Norman Ruggles; and one sister, Christine McCord. He is survived by his wife of Joseph Ruggles 63 years, Nathalie A. Wright Ruggles; five sons, Daniel Ruggles and wife, Tara; Donald Ruggles and wife, Linda J. David Ruggles and wife, Debra; Robert Ruggles and wife, Susan; and Thomas Ruggles and wife Brenda. Also surviving are 18 grandchildren, 31 greatgrandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; brother-inlaw, Wallace McCord and several nieces and nephews. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving in WW II in North Africa and Italy with the Eisenhower staff. After the war he graduated from Asbury College, receiving a Bachelor's degree in Education and later a Master’s in Education from the University of Kentucky. He retired from the Jackson City Schools in 1981; he taught at Southeastern Business College in Jackson and sold World Book Encyclopedias. He was a member of the Wesley United Methodist Church, the America Legion, the Gideons, Scioto Grange, and was a lay speaker for many years. He loved teaching Sunday School and singing in the choir. Calling hours were to be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 10, 2012 at the Eisnaugle-Lewis Funeral Home. Funeral services were to be held at the funeral home beginning at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 11, 2012 with Rev. William Goodall officiating and burial to follow in Mountain Ridge Cemetery. Online condolences to: www.e-k-lewisfuneralhome.
Mary Lou Reynolds Mary Lou Reynolds, age 81, of Cridersville, died at 7:05 p.m. Wednesday, April 11, 2012 in Lima Memorial Health Care System. She was born May 28, 1930 in Jackson, Ohio. She is the daughter of the late Charles Roy and Anna Graham Shepherd Yinger. She married Elliott Reynolds June 19, 1948 and he preceded her in death May 23, 1999. Mrs. Reynolds was a homemaker and a member of the Mary Lou Reynolds Cridersville United Methodist Church. She had been a Girl Scout Leader for 35 years and had been president of the Cridersville Band Parents for three years. She had been a news correspondent for the Wapakoneta Daily News. Survivors include one son, Brian K. (Sabrina) Reynolds of Spencerville; five daughters, Cheryl Ann (Dennis ) Brookhart of Arlington, TX, Karen S. (David) Weber of Lima, Jennifer L. Adkins of Wapakoneta, Katie J. (James) Westcott of Wapakoneta, Ohio, and Janet Gail (Billy) Pack of Wapakoneta; 15 grandchildren: Carla (Steve) Mayhue, Ryan (Jenny) Brookhart, Kyle Brookhart, Zachary Weber, Aadam (Sierra) Adkins, Drew Adkins, Aaron Adkins, Benn Simpko, Nikki Westcott, Brandon (Jenny) Drexler, Bradley Dexler, Brooke (Aaron) Stubbs, Brock Drexler, Corina Reynolds and Tyler Reynolds; 11 great-grandchildren: Lance and Seth Mayhue, Gavin and Trevor Brookhart, Lucca, Gianna and Apollo Adkins, Jacob and Olivia Tregoning, Matthew Drexler and Milo Stubbs; one sister, Anna Mae Wilkins of Elida; and a daughter-in-law, Joy Reynolds of Bonita Springs, FL. She was preceded in death by a son, Randy Lee Reynolds who died September 3, 1999. Funeral services will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 14, 2012 with John Bayliff officiating and Rev. Jerry Wiles assisting at Bayliff & Son Funeral Home, Cridersville. Burial will follow in St. Matthew Cemetery, Cridersville, Ohio. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be given to the charity of the donor’s choice condolences may be shared at BayliffandSon.com.
Angela Dahn Jarvis Bell Angela Dahn Jarvis Bell, age 41, of Hamden, died Tuesday, April 10, 2012, at the Adena Regional Medical Center in Chillicothe, Ohio. Arrangements are by McWilliams Funeral Home, ph. 384-2424.
Mack W. Shelton, Sr. Mack W. Shelton, Sr., of Jackson, Ohio, died Tuesday, April 10, 2012, at Riverside Methodist Hospital, Columbus, Ohio. Survivors include his wife, E. Ann Price Shelton. Arrangements are by Mayhew Funeral Home, ph. 286-4161.
Helen J. Jenkins Smith Helen J. Jenkins Smith, age 82, of Jackson, Ohio, died Thursday, April 12, 2012 at the Four Winds Community nursing facility. Arrangements are by the Cox Burkitt Funeral Home in Beaver, Ohio.
Farmers Market set for April 18 at Holzer Medical Center-Jackson Holzer Health System is hosting a Farmer's Market Wednesday, April 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Hospital Community Education Room at 500 Burlington Road, Jackson. Mallory Mount, MS, RD, LD, dietician at Holzer Health Systems states, "The purpose of this event is to introduce and encourage people to choose healthy options when eating, to promote healthy eating." Booths will be set up with a variety of foods and everyone will have the opportunity to taste test the food choices. A variety of fruits and vegetables will be available, as well as healthy soups, different types of ethnic foods, spices and breads with dipping sauces. If you enjoy any of the items provided, you will have the options to purchase them. Orders will also be taken at the event. Everyone is welcome to attend. With questions, call Mount at (740)441-3322.
Problem of rundown properties spurs discussion at Jackson Council meeting By Pete Wilson Executive Editor
The problem of abandoned houses and rundown properties -- and what to about them -- was discussed at Jackson City Council’s meeting of Monday, April 9. Third Ward Councilman Jeff Elliott initiated the discussion and referred to two abandoned houses in his own neighborhood. He termed the situation “ridiculous” and “infuriating” and stated he would like to somehow deal with this problem. At-Large Councilman George Kitchen agreed and said he felt it was a problem throughout the city. At one point, he suggested that several council volunteers tour the entire city and make a list of problem properties. “If we don’t act, who will act?” Kitchen asked. City Service Director Bill Sheward told council, “We need the money to do it,” he said of tearing down rundown structures.
“We have the power and ability to do it. We do pursue these issues. Sometimes we have success and sometimes we don’t.” It was agreed in some cases, repairs, or cleanup work would remedy the problems and demolition would not be necessary. “I’m not asking them to tear it down, just spruce it up,” Elliott clarified. Law Director Joe Kirby said the city has some level of legal power to order the abating of nuisance situations on private properties, which could lead to tearing down houses or other structures. He added the cost of such work could be assessed against the owner’s real estate taxes. Councilman Randey Smith agreed there are issues, but expressed doubts about the city being able to do much about the problems. Council President Pro Tem Eric Brown said specific information on problem properties should be passed on to the administration with the first order of action being correspondence to the landowners.
WPD March activity report released ston Fire Department, and one rants, 7 were traffic tickets, By Aprille Park Telegram Staff Writer
The Wellston Police Department has released its Activity Report for the month of March. During the month WPD received a total of 236 calls which is an average of about eight calls per day. Local 911 and communications operators answered a total of 88 calls throughout the month. Of these calls, 38 were transferred to Jackson County EMS, and another 38 were handled by the Wellston Police Department. Nine calls were non-emergency, two were transferred to the Well-
was transferred to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. A total of 104 arrests were made throughout the month. These include 52 for felony level offenses and 52 arrests/citations for misdemeanor level offenses. Of the felony level offenses, 30 were for Possessing Controlled Substances, 20 were for drug trafficking, and one each were for Felony Theft, and for arrest on a Felony Warrant. Of the 52 arrests/citations for misdemeanor level offenses, 14 were for the possession of drug abuse instruments, 12 were from misdemeanor war-
Receipts, liens, house numbering discussed by Wellston Council By Steven P. Keller Telegram Managing Editor
At the Thursday, April 5 meeting of Wellston City Council, emergency legislation could not be adopted since two councilmembers were absent which meant the three reading rule could not be suspended. However, business could be conducted and one item was the presentation of the end of the month receipt report issued by City Clerk Dreama Hall. Hall’s report indicted total receipts of $220,252.52 during the month of March. Of that total, $122,824.36 came from water receipts. Sewer and garbage receipts totaled $97,068.15. Cemetery receipts totaled $360. In regards to utility receipts council is currently considering a newly composed affidavit and certification form so those who are found to be delinquent in their utility bills could have the amount of those unpaid bills placed on the real property tax list. In effect, that means the Jackson County Auditor could place a lien on the real property tax list and duplicate. Placing the property on the tax list could occur after the account has been delinquent more than 30 days.
Ohio Newspaper Association 2007, 2009 & 2010 General Excellence Award Winner! www.theTelegramNews.com Best Newspaper Website 2008 & 2010 We welcome submitted news items, events, weddings, births, etc. All will be published free on a space available basis. Letters to the editor must be signed and include a phone number for verification and questions. We reserve the right to edit or reject all submitted items. Contact Information 920 Veterans Drive, Suite D, P.O. Box 667, Jackson, OH 45640 Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. • 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone 740-286-3604, Fax 740-286-0167 Administration Rayanna Puckett, Administrator. Ext. 114 (rpuckett@jcbipaper.com) News Steve Keller - Managing Editor - Ext. 112 (skeller@jcbipaper.com) Pete Wilson - Executive Editor - Ext. 111 (mwilson@jcbipaper.com) Sports Todd Compston, Sports Editor Ext. 106 (tcompston@jcbipaper.com) Advertising Jeanne Gillum, Advertising Mgr. Ext. 103 (jgillum@jcbipaper.com) Classifieds/Legals Beckie Owens, Classified Mgr. Ext. 102 (bowens@jcbipaper.com) Circulation Deby Immel, Circulation Manager Ext. 101 (dimmel@jcbipaper.com) Deadlines Display/classified advertising deadline is 11a.m. Monday for Wednesday edition and 11a.m. Thursday for Saturday edition. USPS 674160 The Telegram is published every Wednesday and Saturday by Jackson County Broadcasting, Inc. at 920 Veterans Dr., Suite D, P.O. Box 667, Jackson, Ohio, 45640. Periodical postage paid at Jackson, Ohio 45640. USPS 674160 Postmaster Send changes of address to Circulation Manager, P.O. Box 667, Jackson, OH 45640 To subscribe call 740-286-3604 Same day Home Delivery Area One Year ..........................$45 Six Months ...................... $25 Three Months .................. $16 Mail Delivery, One Year ... $57 Call for special senior rates (55+)
In other business, it was announced the city has had a house numbering ordinance on the books since 1996. The ordinance requires all homes and establishments are identified with numbers that are at least 4 inches in height. This legislation was initially written so police, fire, or other emergency responders could easily find a home where assistance was needed. The ordinance, however, had been ignored by many residents, but the city will begin enforcing it. In other words, you might want to get your home or business numbered.
four were citations issued for the possession of Marijuana, three each for driving under suspension and for the possession of controlled substances, three for disorderly conduct, two for theft and one each for Criminal Trespassing, Criminal Mischief, and Obstructing Official Business. The Wellston Police Department handled 11 traffic crashes in the City of Wellston during the month of March. One of the 11 occurred on private property. The Wellston Police Department thanks local citizens for their support and cooperation.
The Telegram
City Auditor: Jackson, Athens budgets difficult to compare By Pete Wilson Executive Editor
A comparison between the Athens and Jackson city budgets was the topic of a brief discussion at the Monday evening, April 9, meeting of Jackson City Council. At its March 26 meeting, Jackson City Council passed a $44.8 million budget. Late last year, Athens City Council approved a $33.7 million budget and some city officials as well as media representatives had received a copy of the Athens budget, apparently for the purpose of comparing the two budgets. Asked for an explanation by 3rd Ward Councilman Jeff Elliott, City Auditor Brett Reed stressed it was difficult to make comparisons because Jackson operates an expensive electric department and Athens does not. Reed pointed out Jackson budgeted $29 million for its electric department, which means the remainder of the budget was between $14 and $15 million. Reed also noted Athens’ General Fund portion was about $12 million while Jackson’s General Fund was about $4 million. Two other notable differences are Athens has three times the population as Jackson and has an income tax while Jackson does not.
The Telegram
ANNIVERSARY • PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Wednesday, April 14, 2012 • A3
Jackson sewer-rate hike package moves toward final vote April 23 By Pete Wilson Executive Editor
At their meeting Monday night, April 9, Jackson City Council members heard the second reading of an ordinance which would enact a series of sizable sewer rate increases in the city over the next 5 years. The proposed package of rate hikes was recommended by consultant Wayne Cannon of the Ohio Rural Community Assistance Program (RCAP), following an extensive study. His proposal has the support of the city administration and council’s Utility Committee. However, Utility Committee Chairman Eric Brown would like to provide some financial relief to customers by reducing the city electric rates to offset at least part of the sewerrate increase. That possibility is being studied. The sewer-rate increase package calls for the city to spread a 52 percent hike in sewer rates over the next 4 years
with 25 percent of that hike to come in the first year, which would occur later this year. According to the study, the 25 percent rate hike would increase a “typical” monthly bill from a current amount of $38.24 to $47.79. Annual increases of 15 percent, 7 percent, and 5 percent would follow and would begin each of the next 3 years, starting in 2013. Automatic annual increases of 3 percent a year would kick in, starting in 2016. Brown has scheduled a meeting of the Utility Committee for next Tuesday, April 17, at 6 p.m. for a final review of the issue. Council is scheduled to take a final vote on the sewer rate increases at its next meeting on Monday, April 23. Other Matters • Service Director Bill Sheward announced the city would observe a Spring Cleanup week Monday through Friday, April 23-27. City garbage crews will pick up items not normally accepted. However, paint, hazardous materials, and
Enrollment, financial changes may result in Wellston Schools reduction in force By Aprille Park Telegram Staff Writer
During the regular meeting of the Wellston City Schools Board of Education, Thursday, April 12, Board President Terry Gill, announced the Ohio Department of Education has recommended a reduction of force in the district. Gill said the recommenda-
tion is due to “financial reasons” and a “substantial” decrease in the number of pupils enrolled in the district. Currently, it is projected the Wellston City School District will face a deficit of about $1,000,000 during the next academic year. Because of this, a reduction of up to five teachers within the district could occur. School Board Superintendent Karen
Jackson School Board acts on personnel matters By Aprille Park Telegram Staff Writer
During the regular meeting of the Jackson City Schools Board of Education, Tuesday, April 10, board members took time to act on many personnel matters. During the meeting, the board accepted three resignations, and approved a long list of faculty and staff contracts for the upcoming 2012-2013 school year. Resignations accepted were from teacher Bernadette Cutlip, Attendant Shauna Dulaney, and Band Director Kenneth Hoffman. School Superintendent Phil Howard told those in attendance Mr. Hoffman had resigned to take a position as a Graduate Assistant at The Ohio State University. The position, Howard said, will allow Hoffman to take classes at OSU free-of-charge. Howard added several individuals have already shown interest in the position of band director. The board also awarded many continuing and three-year, two-year, and one-year limited teaching contracts to Jackson City Schools Staff for the 2012-13 school year and beyond. Many cooks, attendants, cashiers, and a long list of substitute teachers were also approved, as well as a list of bus drivers and athletic staff. Each hire is contingent on the completion of all state and local requirements.
Jackson County Republican Party to open headquarters with event By Pete Wilson - Executive Editor
The Jackson County Republican Party will conduct a ribbon-cutting event at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 17, to celebrate the opening of its new headquarters at 287 East Main Street in downtown Jackson. The new headquarters is located between The Radio Building and the Jackson VFW Chapter and will serve as headquarters through the campaign heading into this year’s General Election in November. Jackson County Republican Party Chairman Jon Hensler says the public is invited to attend the ribbon-cutting event and light refreshments will be served. Following the ribbon-cutting, the party’s Central and Executive committees will conduct their monthly meetings at 7 p.m. at the headquarters building. COALTON From A1 model their Outfit of Choice for the judges and should parents are can be given to the moderator to be read as bring music they would like they go on stage during Sun- during their modeling. Contestants need to be at the day Best. If the child has a talent to James A. Rhodes Community perform, he or she will per- Center by 11:30 a.m. to 11:45 form during Outfit of Choice a.m. to get numbers and to and will need to bring their music and props. Pageant practice. They may begin organizers will provide a CD arriving as early as 11 a.m. player. If the child does not For more information conwish to perform, they will tact Milliken at 418-6293.
HEROIN From A3 Road, Oak Hill. All three were charged with fourthdegree-felony charges of Possession Of Drugs (Heroin) in Jackson County Municipal Court. Based on their investigation and interviews, police
say they believe the trio had purchased Heroin in Columbus and had just come back from there before the raid. Parker and Holden were incarcerated in the Jackson County Correctional Facility and Eubanks was taken to the Ross County Jail.
Boch added the board will “do the best (they) can to minimize reductions” within the district, and the impact on current employees will be kept to a minimum if the board receives notices of retirement, or resignations, from staff members. If implemented, reductions in the teaching staff within the Wellston City School District will be effective the first day of August.
Medicare threat does not affect business as usual at Adena Medical Center By Aprille Park - Telegram Staff Writer
A threat from the federal Medicare Program to stop covering services at Adena Medical Center, Chillicothe, has not affected “business as usual” at the hospital, a spokesperson for Adena told The Telegram Thursday, April 12. Sybil Miller, spokesperson for Adena Medical Center, went on to explain what happened to cause this threat. “Surveyors came (to the hospital),” she said, and “based on their survey questions” the Adena team began anticipating what was to come, and began “re-evaluating” their security measures before recommendations for changes were received. Adena received the official list of changes required from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Friday, April 6. Miller said this document listed changes the hospital needed to implement regarding security at the facility. “For the most part” the changes are “already in place,” Miller added. For example, the hospital has changed its check-in procedures for guests, and now requires visitors to wear “colorcoded badges,” which indicate in which part of the hospital an individual should be. The surveyors will return to the hospital sometime before the April 27 cut-off date to insure the changes listed have been implemented. Miller says she is “very optimistic” the surveyors will find everything in compliance. Now it is “business as usual” at Adena Medical Center, Miller said. Individuals should keep their scheduled appointments and staff is working to make sure there are no changes to the quality of healthcare patients receive at Adena.
Wellston Chamber plans Business After Business event at Gettles Park The Wellston Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a “Business after Business” event Thursday, April 26, at the Gettles Industrial Park, located on Wellston Industrial Park Road, just south of the Wellston City limits near General Mills. State Representative Ryan Smith and State Senator Bob Peterson are planning to be there to talk about jobs and how local people can work together to bring more opportunities to the area. The event is scheduled from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and is being labeled as an informal “come-as-you-are” event, with everyone welcome to attend. Congressman Bill Johnson is planning to have a representative to meet with area constituents. Senator Sherrod Brown and Senator Rob Portman are also being invited to send a representative. Tours will be given for those who would like to see the Gettles Industrial Park Building, which was built as a speculative building to attract industry and investment to this area. The Wellston Chamber would like especially invite members of area Chambers of Commerce and all officeholders and candidates. For more information, please call Donna Summers at (740) 384-2468.
construction materials will not be accepted. Any items to be picked up should be placed with regular garbage by 6:30 a.m. on the regularly scheduled day. For appliance and tire pickup, call 286-4419. • Second Ward Councilman Ron Queen inquired if a railroad bridge on West Main Street could be repaired so that it could serve as an escape route for residents if the regular road is flooded, which has happened in the past. Service Director Sheward said the bridge couldn’t be fixed to accommodate vehicular traffic. When Queen asked if repairs could make it safe for pedestrian traffic as there are some loose boards, Sheward said that might be possible. • At the request of City Auditor Brett Reed, council unanimously passed an ordinance adding $44,000-plus in the Fire Tax Levy Fund, which was mistakenly left out of the permanent budget when it was recently passed. This money will be used to pay off a loan early for the purchase of a new fire truck and will save the city $8,100, according to Reed.
Jackson County Bee Inspector visits county commissioners By Aprille Park - Telegram Staff Writer
Jackson County Bee Inspector Chris Lovett attended the regular meeting of the county commissioners Tuesday, April 10, to give an update regarding bees and hives within the county. Lovett said he has “over 100” hives to inspect this year in “23 locations,” and his official “start date” for inspections began April 1. All inspections must be completed before November, he added. Lovett also said he has recently attended an annual bee inspector meeting in Reynoldsburg. At the meeting, inspectors reviewed the Ohio Revised Code regarding bee keeping, and discussed the problem of “bee diseases and mites.” There have not been problems locally with diseases, Lovett said, but there are problems within the state, and it is important each county bee keeper know warning signs to identify potential problems within a hive. Lovett concluded by thanking the commissioners for their time and expressing his happiness that local bee keepers have been “on board and receptive” when he asks to inspect their hives.
A4 • Wednesday, April 14, 2012
The Telegram
ANNIVERSARY • VINTON COUNTY
New courthouse security measures announced Courthouse to have one entrance, guards By Red Thompson, Jr. Telegram Staff Writer
Several plans are in the works to make the Vinton County Courthouse more secure as several changes are planned for the future. During the April 2 meeting of the commissioners, board president Mike Bledsoe announced there are several components to the plan and it will take awhile to implement them. He estimates starting the process in early 2013. Bledsoe said, “It is our responsibility to find the money to pay for the changes.” The highlights of the changes are: A single entry to the courthouse which will be the front door. It will also serve as the ADA entrance. As people enter, there will be a metal detector and two security guards, probably former or off duty deputies, to check them in. Visitors will empty their pockets and the contents checked. Security officers will be carrying Taser guns. Bledsoe explained the county has to
find the money to pay the guards and explained some counties use volunteers, but the judges felt more comfortable with paid and professional personnel at the door. Aside from the front door, all other doors will be locked with computer keypads and will be used as employee entrances only. The glass door near the elevator will be computer key coded and deputies will have the code and use it as a prisoner entrance. The public can leave the courthouse through that door, but cannot enter through it. The commissioner's office will be changing well before the rest of the building. The room where Clerk Angie Horn works and the commissioner’s work room will be switched. The change will allow the commissioners a larger work space and there will be a check in area in Horn's new office. The meeting room will not change, but the door leading into the room will be locked at all times except Monday's during meeting times.
Since Horn takes notes for the meetings, Bledsoe said it makes sense to leave it open Mondays or on any other day a meeting occurs. The rest of the time, people will have to go around the corner to Horn's office and request to see the commissioners. Bledsoe explained the change is following a national pattern of securing courthouses and the change in structure should not be viewed as making it more difficult to get an appointment with the commissioners. He added it may be a little more structured way to conduct business, but does not change the way they do business. Bledsoe added this is another change coming to the courthouse which was built in 1939. Some of the major changes include an ADA ramp, the HVAC system update, the addition of an elevator, rewiring of several offices, Internet accessibility, and revamping the basement. The commissioners hope one day to clean out the top floor and move the judges to that space since it is now climate controlled.
Pinwheels reflect abused children
Photos By Red Thompson, Jr.
McArthur Police Chief Tony Wood, right, and McArthur Fire Chief Chuck Fry support Child Abuse Prevention Week activities and work with Job and Family Services to help prevent abuse. By Red Thompson, Jr. Telegram Sports Writer
Many people who play a role in stopping child abuse in Vinton County noted the caseload, numbering 320, by planting pinwheels in the courthouse lawn Monday morning, April 9. Each pinwheel represents a child who has been abused as
well as the county’s commitment toward the nationally observed Child Abuse Prevention Month. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services website, “April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to recognize that we can play a part in promoting the social and emotional
well being of children and families in communities.” In the pinwheel ceremony, several people from Job and Family Services including Director Jody Walker, Melissa Robinson, Ashley Ross, Helen Lehman Director of Ross County Child Services, Angie Reynolds - screener, and investigator Jesse Reynolds participated in promoting public awareness. Commissioners Mike Bledsoe, Tim Eberts, and Jerry Zinn along with Vinton County Juvenile/Probate Judge Bob Grillo joined the group along with McArthur Fire Chief Chuck Fri and McArthur Police Chief Tony Wood. Walker explained both the police and fire departments work hard to prevent child abuse and work with Job and Family Services. Later the group attended the commissioner’s meeting and Walker explained sometimes the process of stopping child abusers is not an easy task, but one
Commissioners evaluate waterline extension options By Red Thompson, Jr. Telegram Sports Writer
The Vinton County Commissioners and the development department will entertain the idea of accepting a proposal from Ross County Water Company to use left over funds, around $90,000 from the Fairview Hutt/Benson Road area, to serve customers on Stevens Branch and Thompson Roads. The idea, brought to them by Interim Development Director Terri Fetherolf, was discussed at the Monday morning commissioners meeting, April 9. This Ross County Water company proposal came after the commissioners got permission to shift left over funds to the Garrett Ridge project to pay for boring under US Route 50. The commissioners hoped by doing this they could put Jackson County Water in a better starting position to serve more customers when the project, being advertised now, starts. According to Jackson County Water Company General Manager Larry Foster, this project will serve 12 new customers and will move the lines down the road to prepare for
the next project. There is also the possibility, Foster noted, some existing customers may be switched to a new line. Projects started after this one, he added, will require the construction of a tower and pump station and will require more planning down the road. Fetherolf explained it is the idea of the Ross County Water Company to use the funds as change orders to serve many roads in the area that have been left or cut out of other projects because of funding. She will also be conducting a survey to see if the percentage of low to moderate income people in the area is high enough to qualify for using grant funding for the line extension. Commissioner Mike Bledsoe explained the commissioners want to look at the projects proposed to them. “We want to deal with all the water companies that serve Vinton County and spend the funds we have to serve as many people as we can,” said Bledsoe. "Our long term goal is to get everyone served who wants it, but we hope people understand it takes time and money and we are moving as fast as we can.”
Blood donors can put “zip” into life by giving life Vinton County blood donors can put some “zip” into life with a chance to win a weekend getaway while helping save lives. Anyone who donates blood at the Vinton County April 18 blood drive can enter to win a weekend getaway package to two attractions near Hocking Hills State Park in Logan, Ohio. The blood drive will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the McArthur Volunteer Fireman's Hall, 303 West High Street, in McArthur. The winner of the Getaway Package and a guest will be treated to a Friday night stay at the Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls, and a zipline tour for two through Hocking Hills Canopy Tours. The winner can stay any Friday night at the Inn from May 15 through September 15, 2012, and then redeem the two-and-a-half hour zip-line tour on the Friday or Saturday of the selected weekend. "Getting away has never been easier - all you have to do is come to donate blood," said Shelly Horvath, Vinton County Blood Drive Coordinator. People interested in donating can check out the accommodations and find
out more about the zip-line tour by visiting the web site for the Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls at innatcedarfalls.com, and Hocking Hills Canopy Tours at hockinghillscanopytours.com. Whether you are returning to give blood or donating for the first time, the Red Cross encourages individuals to make and keep appointments to give blood throughout the seasons. Blood is a perishable product that can only come from generous volunteer blood donors. Each day, more than 44,000 pints of blood are needed by patients across the United States. To make an appointment to donate call 1-800-REDCROSS and say you want to make an appointment for the Vinton County Community Blood Drive. For more information call 740-5916649 or e-mail shellyhorvath@yahoo.com.
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Job and Family Services personnel and others planted 320 pinwheels in the courthouse lawn. Appearing in the picture are: Director Jody Walker, Helen Lehman, Jesse Reynolds, Melissa Robinson, and Ashley Herring along with Juvenile/Probate Judge Bob Grillo and Commissioners Mike Bledsoe, Tim Eberts, and Jerry Zinn.
worth doing. He congratulated the hard working staff for doing a job that has to be done. Walker also credited Vinton County Local
Schools for being an excellent partner and resource to educate the public about treating children with respect and dignity.
Commissioner Mike Bledsoe thanked the group for coming and for the good work they do for the children.
The Telegram
ANNIVERSARY • VINTON COUNTY
Wednesday, April 14, 2012 • A5
New VISTA Program offers jobs that make a difference Sojourners in McArthur has recently received an AmeriCorps VISTA grant from the Ohio State Office of the Corporation for National and Community Service. The Sojourners VISTA Program will incorporate ten VISTAs. Six VISTAs will help develop Basic Center sites in six counties for runaway and homeless youth up to age 18. One VISTA will work with the Youthbuild Program to develop social enterprise and job placement opportunities. One VISTA will train and support foster parents to provide high quality independent living skills to foster care youth. Two additional VISTAs will work in the Operations Department as a Special Events Coordinator and a Volunteer Coordinator. "Sojourners has a great history with AmeriCorps programs.
For several years our Appalachian MentorCorps provided mentorship to young people in our Foster Care program and the Ohio Outback Conservation Corps worked with state parks on conservation projects," said Richard Games, Sojourners CoExecutive Director. "VISTA members have a rare opportunity to work at jobs that really make a difference in their communities. We are very excited about the skills and energy our new VISTAs will bring to our organization, our youth development programs, and the communities we serve," he concluded. AmeriCorps VISTA is a national service program designed specifically to fight poverty. Authorized in 1964 and founded as Volunteers in Service to America in 1965, VISTA was incorporated into the AmeriCorps network of programs in 1993.
VISTA has been on the front lines in the fight against poverty in America for more than 45 years. VISTA members commit to serve full-time for a year at a nonprofit organization or local government agency, working to fight illiteracy, improve health services, create businesses, strengthen community groups, and much more. During their service, VISTA members receive a modest living allowance, health care, and other benefits. Upon completing their service, they can choose to receive either a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award or post-service stipend. For more information about the Sojourners VISTA Program call 740-357-7014. To view job descriptions or apply online, visit www.myamericorps.gov.
April is Fair Housing Month in Ohio This month is intended to raise awareness about fair housing opportunities throughout the state. Fair housing is a right of all Americans by law and a basic human necessity. On April 11, 1968, President Lyndon Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1968, also known as the Fair Housing Act. In 1988, the law was expanded to prohibit discrimination in housing based on handicap and familial status, provide for monetary penalties for housing discrimination, and
establish design and construction requirements for new multi-family dwellings. In honor of the enactment of the federal Fair Housing Act, as amended, April is annually declared Fair Housing Month nationally and in Ohio. Fair Housing Month is a time to celebrate the progress made in opening the doors of housing opportunity, regardless of race, color, gender, nationality, religion, familial status, or disability. The Vinton County Fair Housing Office encourages all citizens to observe Fair
Housing Month by learning more about Fair Housing and why it is so important to every American citizen. Visit the office’s display at the Herbert Wescoat Memorial Library and at the Vinton County Visitors’ Center/Chamber of Commerce Office throughout the month. Literature on fair housing and landlord tenant laws as well as some promotional items will be available throughout the month. Contact the Vinton County Fair Housing Office at 5963529 or visit www.vcfairhousing.com for information.
Senior Citizen News By Rhoda Toon Price
FISH FRY is April 17, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Community Center. All the perch you can eat, potato salad, slaw, baked beans, bread, dessert, and drink. Adults - $7.50, under 12-$4. A sandwich only will be $4. Carryout available. Desserts are needed. Legal Aide will be at the center Tuesday, April 24. This is a free service for persons 60 years of age or older, who live in Vinton County. April 27: If you are in the GrandPal Program this year, please save this day, late morning, to have lunch with your “pal” and get to know them. You may bring a $5 gift for them. If you cannot be there or bring a gift, please let Sandy or Rhoda know so we can get a gift. ART/ESSAY/Photo Contest with the Area Agency on Aging District 7 is coming May 14. If you are interested, the center has rules and applications. You must be 55 years of age or older to enter. Call Rhoda at 596-4706. Be careful of scams this time of year. Remember, DO NOT give ANYONE your bank account number or Social Security number if you do not know the person. Be sure you know them. Dr. Caplan will be at the center May 16.
Two new things coming! • A monthly birthday party will be held the second Tuesday of the month with Maple Hills Nursing Facility, formerly Twin Maples. Cake and ice cream will be brought at 11:45 a.m. Everyone needs to stay for dessert and birthdays for the month and there will be a birthday song. • Bingo with Jamie from Family Nursing Service in Jackson will be here the first Wednesday of the month to play Bingo and she will bring prizes. She did this once before and we had to stop it due to problems. We are going to try again. Menus for the week of April 16 Monday: Chicken nuggets, hash brown casserole, green beans, bread, fruit cocktail, cookie. Tuesday: Ham slice, cauliflower, apple slices, macaroni and cheese, bread, orange juice. Wednesday: Cheeseburger, tater tots, collard greens, banana. Thursday: BBQ chicken, parslied buttered potatoes, broccoli, roll, vanilla pudding. Friday: Chicken salad sandwich, potato soup, tomato basil salad, carrifruit salad. Menus are subject to change. Services are rendered on a non-discriminatory basis. The center and vans are handicapped accessible.
ADENA HEALTH CENTER – JACKSON
Important information from Adena
Photo By Red Thompson, Jr.
2012 Vikings Baseball Team The members of the 2011-12 Vinton County Vikings Baseball Team are: (Front row from left): Andy Conley, Tyler White, Tyler McFerren. (Second Row): Garrett Betts, Corey Grigsby, Josh Baker, Michael McManis, David Allen, Brandon Huff. (Third row): Head Coach James Allen, Brett Thomas, Tyler Walton, Corey Puckett, Tim Allen, Cole Thomas, Curtis Rose, Chase Ward.
Photo By Red Thompson, Jr.
2012 Lady Vikings Softball team
The members of the 2012 Vinton County Lady Vikings Softball Team are: (front row from left): Emma Hedrick, Breanna Rader, Kiah Grant, Hunter Cohn. (Second row): Peyton Tolley, Bailey Kittle, Jaci Fowler, Taylor Cohn, Jamee Park, Haley Geer, and Assistant Coach Donyel Castor. (Third Row): Head Coach Amy Ward, Shayna Thomas, Madison Womeldorf, Keirstin Pratt, Ashtin Womeldorf, Regenia Schrader, Haley Dewhurst, Cheyanna Johnston, and Assistant Coach Lindsey Janey.
A6 • Wednesday, April 14, 2012
ANNIVERSARY • COMMUNITY
The Telegram
Annual Easter Egg hunt held at Edgewood Manor
Wellston resident Krace Gill, center, was all smiles as he excitedly hunted eggs Friday, April 6, at Edgewood Manor in Wellston. Krace was just one of more than 150 children who took part in the hunt. Photos by Aprille Park
The grand prize winners in the 2-4 age group, and in the age 5-7 group were Emma Moon, age 4, and Joshua Dewhurst, age 5. Both winners were given gift receipts for the bikes and were able to exchange them free of charge. By Aprille Park Telegram Staff Writer
Kiesha Hamrick, left, won the drawing for an Easter Basket Friday at Edgewood Manor. She is pictured with little Byron Crabtree who was all smiles during the event.
Excitement filled the air Friday, April 6 as more than 150 children prepared to take part in the Annual Easter Egg Hunt held at Edgewood Manor in Wellston. The hunt began promptly at 2 p.m. with many hopeful children excitedly searching for coveted prize eggs. At the Edgewood egg hunt children typically find small “goodie bags” filled with candy. Any plastic Easter Egg found had a prize identified inside which could be obtained following the hunt. There were three grand prize eggs as well, one in each age group. The grand prizes were bicycles for the older age groups and a tricycle for the youngest group of hunters. Those participating in the hunt were separated by age, and each age-group had a separate area in which to hunt. Children ages two to four had their own section, as did those five to seven and those eight to 10. The children were excited to take part in the hunt, as usual, and employees at Edgewood Manor hope the tradition of the Easter Egg Hunt continues for many years.
Easter Egg Hunt held at IronOak Center
Submitted Photos
Children in the ages one to three division lined up, anxiously waiting for the Easter Egg Hunt to begin, Saturday, March 31 at Oak Hill’s IronOak Center. By Aprille Park Telegram Staff Writer
Saturday, March 31 marked the Fourth Annual Community Easter Egg Hunt in Oak Hill. The hunt was held at the IronOak Center, which is the former Davis Home. The hunt was divided into three age divisions which included ages one to three, ages four to seven, and ages eight to 12, and a
grand prize was awarded in each division. Following the children’s hunt, adults had the opportunity to take part in the fun, and compete in an egg hunt of their own. The event, sponsored by Adena Health System, IronOak Endeavors, and Heartland, was free-of-charge to the community. Many children and adults alike were excited to take part in the egg hunt.
Many adults enjoyed participating in an egg hunt of their own following the children’s hunt March 31, at the IronOak Center in Oak Hill.
Spaghetti, Chicken Alfredo dinner to help Leo Petroglyph land purchase The Calvary United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 483 Chillicothe Street, Jackson, will be the site of a fundraiser to benefit the Leo Petroglyph Land Purchase Fund. The dinner will be held Saturday April 14, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and a Chinese Auction will begin at 3:30 p.m. The menu will be spaghetti with sauce or Chicken Alfredo, garlic bread, salad, and beverage. The cost will be adults - $6 and children 12 and under - $3. Delivery will be available for Jackson City, but does not include beverage. To arrange for delivery call 418-4483.
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Justin Exline, age 10, was the grand prize winner in the 8-10 years old age group. He is pictured with the bicycle he won in the hunt