Latest News: November 2009

SENIOR CITIZENS CENTER A MAJOR
ASSET FOR NEW BOSTON RESIDENTS

This week I had the opportunity to tour what is referred to as the Senior Citizens Center, located on Market Street, in Portsmouth, Ohio. The center is actually called the Scioto County Multipurpose Senior Citizens Center.

Founded in 1979, the center was created to address the needs of elderly consumers in Scioto County. Since its inception, the center has grown and expanded to include in-home community based services. Programming is designed to provide a comprehensive variety of services to foster independent living among Senior Citizens.

The Executive Director of the Senior Center is Renee Ellis. Ms. Ellis and other staff members provided me with a very enlightening tour of the facility and an overview of the programs offered. I am extremely grateful for their time and insight and they have my sincere thanks.

Many of our senior population in New Boston regularly attend the various activities provided at the center. Van transportation is provided to and from the center and other services include homebound, homemaker, adult day care and outreach. Many of our New Boston residents depend on the transportation service not just for going back and forth to the center but for doctor appointments, grocery shopping and picking up prescriptions. I might also add that van transportation is wheelchair accessible.

Perhaps one of the most important aspects of the Senior Center is the socialization. A wide range of activities are planned by certified personnel and include bingo, special "theme" parties, various games, live music and reminiscing.

Scioto county is one of the first counties in the state of Ohio to pass a levy to support services for older adults. Our senior citizens in New Boston have helped shape not only our village, but the county, state and country over their lifetimes. It is only fitting that they have a high quality of life available now. I had the opportunity to meet some of our New Boston residents while visiting the center and am very grateful to the staff and management for all they do, not just for our New Boston residents, but for all seniors.

Mike Payton
10-27-09

EDUCATION FUNDRAISING FOR NEW BOSTON STUDENTS
TOPIC OF TRAINING SESSION

This past week I participated in a day-long training session on fundraising sponsored by the Scioto Foundation at the Welcome Center, as part of the foundation's work with the University/College Access Network (UCAN).

I took part in this event as a member of the New Boston School District's group of the UCAN Advisory Committee, which is composed of members of each UCAN school district in the county.

The session was one of several that are designed to assist school districts in creating "Road Maps" or plans to raise funds for the initial five-year period of the UCAN program when schools can obtain up to $10,000 in matching funds per year from the Scioto Foundation where their scholarship endowments are established.

During the training session we were given a review of the new centralized scholarship database developed by Miami University's Center for Public Management and Regional Affairs. Now on-line, the consolidated website provides a one-stop location for graduating seniors and their parents to search for scholarship opportunities locally, statewide and nationally.

Among other areas presented throughout the day was a training program entitled "Annual Fundraising and Special Events," and included segments on identifying annual fundraising trends, principles and techniques and working to develop an annual fundraising plan.

The New Boston community will greatly benefit from the efforts of the Scioto Foundation and the UCAN program. It is a pleasure to be part of this important endeavor for the future of our community's young people. The New Boston group has already developed strategies for fundraising both this school year and next.

The Scioto Foundation's UCAN program was launched in the fall of 2008 with the vision that one day every student from Scioto County will have the financial resources to attend the college or university of his or her choice.

Further information on the UCAN program can be obtained by contacting Kim Cutlip of the Scioto Foundation at (740) 354-5629.

Mike Payton
09-26-09

ORGAN DONOR PROGRAM A VIABLE OPTION
FOR NEW BOSTON RESIDENTS

I had the opportunity recently to spend time with some of the volunteers who work with The Ohio Donor Registry. The registry was established July 1, 2002, by the Ohio General Assembly to ensure that a person's wish to be a donor is carried out.

Joining the Donor Registry is a way to legally give consent for the gift of your organs and tissue upon your death. The registry allows you to direct whether all or specific organs and/or tissue are donated and for which purposes. All decisions are completely up the the donor.

The decision to become a donor is an important one. It is hope for the more than 102,000 people on the transplant waiting list, and it is your heroic legacy for the future.

In Scioto County in the past four years, August, 2005 through July, 2009, only 36.9 percent of residents renewing licenses or ID's registered as organ and tissue donors. Of all 88 counties, this is the lowest registration rate in the state of Ohio.

Lifeline of Ohio is an independent, non-profit organ procurement organization whose purpose is to promote and coordinate the donation of human organs and tissues for transplantation. The organization is federally designated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to facilitate the donation process in Central and Southeastern Ohio and two counties in West Virginia. As a licensed tissue bank, Lifeline of Ohio's tissue recovery services are regulated by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). Lifeline of Ohio is a member of the United Network of Organ Sharing, a government-chartered nationwide network.

Lifeline of Ohio provides donations and procurement services to 64 hospitals. Its professional staff is available around the clock, to evaluate, manage, recover, preserve, allocate and transport organs and tissues for transportation. The organization also provides hundreds of community education programs to churches, schools, civic groups and businesses each year.

This valuable service is available to residents of New Boston via either the website, www.lifelineofohio.org. or you can also call toll free, 1-800-525-5667. Brochures are also available at the New Boston Community Center. Please take some time, review the brochures and check out the website. The local chapter can be contacted by calling Rachel Lewis at the above toll free number and extension 329 or email her at rlewis@lifelineofohio.org.

Mike Payton
08-24-09

CEDAR STREET CHURCH OF CHRIST IN CHRISTIAN UNION PERFORMS COMMUNITY WORK FOR VILLAGE

I wanted to personally thank all the members of the "work team" from Cedar Street Church of Christ in Christian Union that gave a week of their time and energy to help make our community a more attractive place to live.

Pastor Gary Heimbach explained to me that in past years the church went on missionary trips to countries in South America and elsewhere during the summer to perform needed community service work. After much debate and prayer the church decided it would be a good idea to start doing missionary work in its own backyard and thus the decision to stay in New Boston and work on various projects.

The church partnered with the village to find homeowners in need. During the week of July 11-18, work was done on houses on Stanton Avenue and Rhodes Avenue as well as the New Boston Little League Park. A group of church ladies prepared breakfast, lunch and dinner for the group at the fellowship hall each day. And forty beautiful hanging baskets were distributed at random to neighbors throughout the surrounding area of the church. The church paid for all paint, lumber, flowers and food.

This was a tremendous display of Christian fellowship and community caring. I want to thank all these great neighbors from Cedar Street Church of Christ in Christian Union for their unselfishness and devotion to their fellow man. Our entire community, adults and children alike, are all very fortunate to have this group of dedicated citizens.

Mike Payton
07-18-09

NEW BOSTON TO PARTICIPATE IN
SENIOR HOME IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

On June 17, 2009, Fire Chief Chris Bender, Fireman John Williams, Patrolman Brian Reed and myself attended the kickoff for Scioto county's Senior Home Inspection Program, or as it is also known, "SHIP." The event was held in the Appleton Gallery at Shawnee State University.

SHIP is a free home safety inspection service provided to residents of Scioto county who are 60 years of age or older who either own or rent their homes. The program brings together a team of professionals working together with seniors to reduce hazardous household conditions that may lead to personal injury, loss of property or even death.

According to recent research, older adults are at a higher risk of injury or death by fires and falls compared to the remaining population. Some statistics have found that these risks increase substantially with increasing age. Falls are the leading cause of death from unintentional injury in the home and over thirty percent of those age 65 and older are involved in falls each year.

This program is a voluntary service that provides a free home safety inspection to identify features in your home that may make your residence susceptible to burglaries, fires, or injuries due to falls. Law enforcement officers, firefighters, aging service professionals and occupational therapy student interns will collaborate to conduct the safety inspections and provide information and free items for your home that may reduce household hazards, decrease risk and provide general overall safety in the home.

This program is a free service sponsored by the New Boston Fire Department, New Boston Police Department, Area Agency on Aging District 7, Inc., Portsmouth Fire Department, Portsmouth Police Department, RSVP-Retired Senior Volunteer Program, Shawnee State University, Scioto County Dept. of Jobs and Family Services, Scioto County Sheriff's Office and the Scioto County Volunteer Fire Departments. It is free to residents not just in New Boston but throughout Scioto County or are 60 or older.

SHIP is funded in part by a grant from the Scioto Foundation with assistance of the United States Enrichment Corporation, Southern Ohio Medical Center and Keystone Printing.

If you rent or own you home in New Boston and would like this free service, please contact Fire Chief Chris Bender 456-4107 or Karen Wilcoxon, RN, at 1-800-582-7277, extension 140.

Mike Payton
06-18-09

CLEAN AIR FUNDS AWARDED TO NEW BOSTON
FOR CLEAN-UP OF FUTURE INFRA-METALS SITE

The Southern Ohio Port Authority awarded $976,309 in Clean Ohio Funds to clean up the former Diesel Repair Shop property in New Boston. This area will serve as additional acreage for the Infra-Metals industry moving into the village.

Infra-Metals currently plans to build a 150,000 square foot structural steel distribution facility. This additional space will be used for storage once clean-up is completed.

Brownfield Redevelopment allows communities to reclaim and improve their properties, making property that was once viable ready for new development and encouraging economic growth. This funding will allow the port authority to clean up property that, according to the project description, has been occupied for industrial purposes since the turn of the century, most recently as the Diesel Repair Shop within the steel mill operations.

Once the site is prepared, closing on the property and the construction process will begin Over the next several months the clean-up process, which includes awarding contracts, bringing in equipment, etc., will occur and movement will be visable to the community.

Let me emphasize that the Infra-Metals plant, although located in New Boston, is an economic asset to the entire Scioto County and southern Ohio area. I look forward to working with the Infra-Metals organization throughout this process to insure future stable employment and economic success.

Mike Payton
5-26-09

NEW BOSTON TO HOST
COMMUNITY-WIDE YARD SALE

On June 6, 2009, the Village of New Boston will host its first Community-Wide Yard Sale. This unique idea was brought to our council by one of our local residents, Mr. Bryce Flowers.

Residents who are interested in participating only have to set up the yard sale in their front or back yard on Saturday, June 6, beginning at 9AM and can keep it going till 6PM.
The village is not going to charge any permit fee that day with concession stands and portable restroom facilities available at various locations throughout New Boston.

What we are really trying to do is twofold: (1) help residents clean up their property and instill communuty pride while making some money at the same time and (2) to invite people from outside the community into New Boston to see the positive changes that have taken place and other progressive changes that are developing at a steady pace throughout the village.

I am very happy to see this community event coming into play now. It will go hand-in-hand with the Village Wide Clean-Up Day we just completed last month. These events coupled with New Boston's continuing efforts to revamp abandoned houses and garages, increased street cleaning and excessive grass and weed removal as well as the upcoming repair and upgrading of local alleys and sidewalks will all instill more "Tiger Pride" throughout our village.

I encourage all citizens to take part in the Community-Wide Yard Sale, either as a seller or as a buyer. I also want to extend my thanks to Mr. Flowers and those community volunteers who are working with him to make this event a success.

For further information, contact the mayor's office at 456-4105.

Mike Payton
5-25-09

JENNIFER MILLER NAMED 2009
MISS RIVERDAYS CANDIDATE FOR
GLENWOOD HIGH SCHOOL

I would like to congratulate Jennifer Miller, a junior at New Boston Glenwood High School for being selected as the 2009 Miss Riverdays Candidate.

Jennifer is the daughter of Scott and Catherine Miller of New Boston. Jennifer participates on the girls basketball and volleyball teams and also plays in the high school band. She is an outstanding high school student and will begin her senior year at Glenwood High School in the fall.

The Riverdays pageant is a showcase for high school girls throughout Scioto County and each year during the River Days Festival in Portsmouth, Ohio, one girl is selected to become Miss Riverdays. Throughout the summer Jennifer will be participating in a variety of civic and charitable events throughout the county. It is an experience every high school girl will remember for the rest of her life.

We are all very proud of Jennifer and wish her the best. The Riverdays Pageant will be held at the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts on the campus of Shawnee State University, Labor Day weekend. Please try to attend and give her your support.

Mike Payton
5-9-09

NEWVILLE LITTLE LEAGUE 2009 SEASON
TO OPEN MAY 2 WITH PARADE

Newville Little League will officially open its 2009 season with a parade through New Boston to the stadium Saturday, May 2nd. The parade will feature children from New Boston, Sciotoville and surrounding communities along with various local civic and government officials.

As most residents know, Newville Little League is the result of a merger between New Boston and Sciotoville little leagues several years ago. This year businesses from both communities are sponsoring teams in the league. Some teams will play all of their games at Milbrook Park while other teams in the league will travel throughout Scioto County and South Shore, Kentucky playing little league baseball and softball.

As a special feature this year, the Challenger League will participate in the parade and also play an exhibition at the park prior to the first official game being played. The Challenger League, which plays its games at the Wheelersburg Little League fields, is composed entirely of special needs children from throughout Scioto County.

Opening day of Little League baseball in New Boston has always been a very special occasion. This year promises to be no different. There will be more children participating in the league this year than in several of the past years and the enthusiasm from players, coaches and parents is high.

It has been my pleasure to be associated with our local little league for over 30 years and
I am looking forward to being part of this great event as much this year as ever before. Please come and join us, Saturday, May 2, for a wonderful day at the ballpark. The parade is scheduled to start at 10AM on Grace Street and travel to New Boston Stadium where introductions of all players and coaches will be made. Games will be played throughout the day in all age divisions.

Mike Payton
04-20-09

NEW BOSTON VETERANS AMONG THOSE TO RECEIVE SPECIAL VA PAYMENT

Eligible veterans in the New Boston area are among those who are set to receive a one-time payment of $250.00 to help offset the effects of the current economic situation.

I have recently learned that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has announced funding has been released to Ohio's Sixth District as specified by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

According to U.S. Representative Charles Wilson's office, to be eligible, New Boston and other area veteran beneficiaries must have received compensation, pension, dependency and indemnity compensation, or spina bifida benefits at any time between November, 2008 and January, 2009. Congressman Wilson says no application is necessary. The VA will use its existing payment records to determine eligibility to the $250.00 award. Beneficiaries will receive their payments in the same way (either by direct deposit or mail) they receive their monthly VA benefits.

The Veterans Administration will inform beneficiaries and the public when processing the payments. This payment is not countable in determining eligibility for VA pension or Parents" DIC, nor will the Internal Revenue Service tax this payment. Wilson's office also wants to remind everyone that the law allows only one $250.00 payment per individual. Beneficiaries who also receive benefits from Social Security Administration or the Railroad Retirement Board will be paid through those agencies and will therefore not receive the payment from the VA.

The economic climate in our area, just like across the nation, is devasting to most all families but the unemployment rate for veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, who are 18 and older is currently at 11.2 percent. It was gradifying to see New Boston veterans and retirees receive this extra bonus and I applaud President Obama for providing this much needed stimulus to these great American citizens.

Distribution of payments is scheduled to begin in June, 2009. New Boston residents can obtain further information by contacting Candice Tuller, service officer for the Scioto County Veterans Service Office at (740) 353-1477.

Mike Payton
3-27-09

NEW BOSTON VILLAGE PROMOTES 2 POLICE
OFFICERS AND HIRES FIREMAN

At the March 17, 2009, village council meeting, the New Boston Council promoted 2 police officers and hired a fireman.

Upon recommendation of Police Chief Darrold R. Clark, officer Diane Davis was promoted to Lieutenant. Chief Clark stated in his recommendation, "I believe that Officer Davis will make an excellent supervisor and I have complete confidence in her ability to take charge of any situation that might arise during a shift. I know that she can also be trusted to see that all department rules and procedures are followed and to set a good example for our department and community."

Chief Clark also recommended Officer Steven E. Nagel be promoted to Sergeant. In his recommendation, Clark stated, "I believe Officer Nagel can be trusted to fulfill the duties of supervisor on the shifts and see that officers obey the rules and regulations of our department." Officer Nagel also serves as the New Boston Police Department's Firearms Instructor.

Fire Chief Chris Bender recommended Mr. Jeff D. Craig be appointed to the newly created position of Firefighter/Trainee with the New Boston Fire Department. Mr. Craig had undergone all investigative procedures and medical requirements for this appointment.

I would like to extend my congratulations to all three of these individuals and wish them the best with their careers.

Mike Payton
03-17-09

NEW BOSTON TO HAVE 2ND ANNUAL SPRING CLEAN-UP DAY

The Village of New Boston will host its 2nd annual Spring Clean-Up Day Saturday, March 28, 2009. Last year's event was a huge success in the village and this year the goal is to have more people involved and continue to energize pride throughout New Boston.

As with last year's event, Councilwoman Shelly Hickman-Aeh will again serve as the coordinator for the event. Dumpsters will again be located on the old Wal-Mart lot, next to the fire station. Between the hours of 10AM and 2PM, citizens will be able to bring trash, old items from attics, garages, etc., to the dumpsters for free. There will be people available at the dumpsters to help unload your vehicles. Also, just as last year, if you are disabled or otherwise unable to get your trash to the dumpsters, contact the village office at 456-4103, before March 28, and our service department will pick up at your home.

We cannot accept any of the following items: tires, car batteries, air conditioners, refrigerators, paint and any asbestos products.

Recycling in New Boston is still available and encouraged. Anyone wishing to recycle their paper, plastic or metal can bring it to the recycling dumpsters located permanently on the parking lot at Kmart close to the Hong Kong Buffet. If you have a vehicle that needs to be scrapped, Community Action is still running its program. For more information contact Charlie Burke at 740-727-2958, and CAO will pick up the vehicle and dispose of it for you. Any money earned from scrapping the car will be split between CAO and the owner.

Last year various groups from local businesses and school groups assisted village citizens in going through the village and picking up litter. This year we are hoping to have not only these people back with us but many more. Church groups in the community are welcome and encouraged to let their youth groups participate.

This program is a great asset to the village, not just in the clean-up effort, but the fellowship with one another that comes from working together for a common cause. I was very proud to be part of this program last year and look forward to participating again. If you would like to join us, contact me at (740) 456-5173 or Shelly Hickman-Aeh at (740) 821-3283.

Mike Payton
03-17-09

FINAL STIMULUS MONEY REQUESTS FOR NEW BOSTON ARE SUBMITTED

Final requests have been made for stimulus monies for the Village of New Boston, either as direct requests for projects by the village but also for projects that relate to the village but requested by third parties.

Of more than $170 million requested for Scioto County stimulus projects, $36.6 million has been asked for projects within New Boston that could create as many as 1000 jobs.

The village has asked for $6.5 million for the flood defense project and if approved it is estimated to create approximately 100 jobs. Another $11,189.141, has been requested for streets, alleys and sidewalks in the village. Approximately 150 jobs could be created if this project is approved. Additionally, $7 million for 32,000 linear feet of new sanitary storm sewer lines which is expected to create 150 jobs.

The village has requested $750,000 to rehabilitate the village community building, safety building, including new doors, windows, lighting, garage doors, heating and air units, duct work, a new generator for the safety building and extending the service building for storage of police and fire inventory and road salt. This project could create 100 jobs.

Also, the village has applied for $420,000 for the New Boston Police Department to hire two additional officers. The yearly cost for one officer is $70,000 which includes salaries, health costs, retirement, uniforms and equipment costs. There was also another $450,000 for the New Boston Fire Department to hire two additional firemen, again including salaries, health costs, retirement, uniforms and equipment costs.

There were additional projects within New Boston that have been requested through the stimulus process, although not directly submitted by the village. The New Boston Local School District has asked for $5 million for a community recreational center. This project is expected to create 20 jobs.

The Southern Ohio Port Authority has asked for $3,114,646 for the Bob Walton Industrial Park in New Boston, to include the construction of an industrial access road, sanitary sewer, storm sewer and water. This project could create as many as 420 jobs.

Howerton Engineering and Surveying has asked for $2.5 million for a sanitary sewer rehabilitation project within New Boston. This project is expected to create 20 jobs and is part of a multi-phase project costing $7 million.

Overall the Village of New Boston is asking for more than $26 million from the state, with an additional $10.6 million requested from other agencies for projects throughout the village.

If New Boston is fortunate enough to get all the funding requested, there is the potential for an estimated 964 jobs to be created.

Mike Payton
03-05-09

WHAT THE STIMULUS PACKAGE MEANS
TO NEW BOSTON

On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed into law the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The bill includes investments in Ohio's infrastructure which will provide immediate job creation and promotes long-term economic growth.

Communities across the state were required to submit appropriations requests for local projects to designated state and federal agencies for review. At the New Boston Village
Council meeting on February 16, 2009, Village Administrator Steve Hamilton presented to council a list of projects to be considered by state and federal authorities for stimulus money on behalf of New Boston residents. I wanted to share this list with you and feel free to contact the Village Administrator's office or myself if you have questions regarding any of these proposals.

The programs for consideration are: (1) Village of New Boston Street, Alley, Curb and Sidewalk Rehab; (2) Village of New Boston Sanitary and Storm Sewer Rehab; (3) Village of New Boston Community Building, Safety Building and Service Building Rehab; (4) Village of New Boston Equipment Garage.

With regard to the streets, alleys and curbs, it goes without saying that all are in desparate need of replacement or major repair. The Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation includes collection system cured inplace liner, excavate replace, manhole liners and replacements and portions of the project involves separating storm sewer connections from a combined system. Rehabilitation of the New Boston Community Building, Safety Building and Service Building includes windows, lighting, doors, heating and air units, duct work and extending the service building with a equipment garage to protect vehicles and equipment from inclement weather and potential vandalism.

Among the expectations President Obama's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act have is to target communities for funding that have been hit hard by job losses in order to retain dislocated workers and to invest approximately $282.9 million in funds for water and sewer projects. I believe the requests made for the village are well within those expectations and would anticipate funding to be released for the successful implementation and completion of these projects for our village.

Please feel free to contact the village administrator's office (740-456-4103) or myself (740-456-5173) if you have any comments or would like to see a packet of the actual proposals.

Mike Payton
02-19-09

NEW BOSTON STUDENT EARNS TRIP
TO GETTYSBURG AND WASHINGTON, D.C.

One of my favorite parts of being involved in our community is getting to know all the great young people who live here. Over the years I have had the privilege of meeting many, many young people who have made my life more fun and I have learned so much from all of them. And it is especially exciting when I get to give special recognition to some of these people. Alex Williams, currently a junior at Glenwood High School is one who has just earned some fantastic honors.

Last November, 70,000 high school students from 500 high schools across the state of Ohio took the Americanism and Government Test administered by the American Legion of Ohio. Of those tens of thousands, only the top 18 were invited by the Legion to join them in Gettysburg and Washington, D.C. Alex Williams was the only one of these students chosen from Scioto County.

Alex is the first student ever chosen from New Boston in the 73-year history of the American Legion event. The Legion has divided the state into 14 districts, and Scioto County shares its district with eight other counties. Only two students from our district have been chosen to attend: Williams and another student from Washington Court House.

Each of the 18 students chosen in the state will join the Legion of Ohio on an all-expenses paid trip to Gettysburg and Washington, D.C., March 9-14. Joining Alex will be six seniors (three boys and three girls), five juniors (three girls and two boys), and six sophmores (three boys and three girls) from schools all across Ohio.

Some of the places Alex will get to visit include the Kennedy Center, the headquarters of the U.S. Army Band, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Roosevelt Memorial and the Marine Corps Base. They will tour Marine Helicopter Squadron One, the helicopter squadron that flies the president.

Alex is the son of John and Catherine Williams. Their son is an honor roll student with a big interest in language and thoughts of becoming a government translator.

I am very honored to have known Alex most of his life and this past year he joined me on the committee to help develop the new schools for New Boston. He has made some very valuable contributions to this committee as we work through this remarkable project.

I congratulate Alex and his parents, John and Catherine. Alex is a fine young man, a remarkable student and one of many young people in our community that New Boston can be proud.

Mike Payton
01-25-09

NEW BOSTON POLICE OFFICERS RECEIVE SERVICE AWARDS

The New Boston Police Department issued commendations this month to four officers, and two posthumous awards to officers who were killed in the line of duty.

As Captain Steve Goins explained, "it recognizes the officers for doing a good job and lets the community see that the officers have been recognized by the department for doing outstanding work in certain things."

Commendation ribbons recognize service in a variety of areas, including the Medal of Honor, Valor and Purple Heart.

The officers awarded include: Steve Goins for teaching classes on missing and abused children; Steve Nagel for being a firearm instructor; Sam Craft for being a firearm instructor; Greg Grant for community service; Diane Davis for community service.

The Community Service Commendation awarded to Grant and Davis are in recognition of their involvement with the annual New Boston Christmas Toy Drive. Additionally, Davis was awarded the Police Shield Ribbon for being injured in the line of duty.

Only two officers in the history of the New Boston Police Department have ever died from injuries received in the line of duty.

More than 100 years ago, New Boston Marshall Arthur Rutter was fatally shot while investigating a harassment case and New Boston Deputy Marshall Thomas Harris was shot in the line of duty (robbery case) in 1926. Both Rutter and Harris were awarded with posthumous Medals of Honor. Both officers are also memorialized on a monument outside the New Boston Fire Department among other New Boston firemen killed in the line of duty.

It is with great admiration that I congratulate these fine police officers and the contributions and sacrifice they have made for the safety and concern for our community.

Mike Payton
1-22-09

NEW BOSTON RESIDENTS SHOULD BE AWARE OF CHANGES MADE TO CHILD BOOSTER SEAT LAW

I wanted to share some information concerning changes that have been made in the child booster seat law.

Ohio recently became the 44th state to pass a law requiring children 4 through 8 to ride in a booster seat when traveling in a motor vehicle. The new law applies not only to children 4 through 8 but to any child who is shorter than 4 feet 9 inches tall. Previously, Ohio law required child safety seats for children up to 40 pounds.

The National Transportation Safety Board said Ohio was one of the last seven states that didn't require booster seats for children older than 3. Children 4-8 are too small to be protected adequately by the car's seat belt system which is designed for an adult. The board said seat belts that don't fit young children properly can cause extensive damage in accidents. Booster seats are designed to help protect children from injury in accidents by making sure adult seat belts fit properly.

Law enforcement will be allowed to cite only motorists violating the law if the motorist is first pulled over for a different violation. Child safety advocates across Ohio have publicly praised passage of the bill which Governor Strickland signed into law last week.

I would like to applaud the Ohio State Legislature, The Ohio Booster Seat Coalition and Governor Ted Strickland for signing this bill which will protect children not only in the New Boston community but throughout Ohio.

Mike Payton
1-15-2009

NEW BOSTON BUSINESS & RESIDENTS COULD
FEEL THE PINCH OF AEP'S 52% RATE INCREASE

As many of you read in a recent Portsmouth Daily Times article, OSCO Industries has petitioned the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) not to grant American Electric Power a 52% rate increase through an Electric Security Plan.

AEP's current rates expire December 31, 2008, and the PUCO of Ohio is holding hearings to determine whether to accept, reject or modify AEP's proposal to raise rates.

In testimony filed with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio on November 3, 2008, the Office of the Ohio Consumers' Council (OCC) stated the annual rate increases AEP has proposed for its three-year electric security plan are not justified and should be reduced by more than one billion dollars.

The vast majority of us not only here in Scioto County, but throughout the United States will never see a 52% increase on our paychecks. What we will see, and do see, is increased costs via taxes, gasoline, food stuffs, housing, heating and electric. Many residents in New Boston and throughout Scioto County are on fixed-incomes. Paying a required astronomical rate increase, even if spread out over two, three or more years, is still pressuring already tight pocket-books.

American Electric Power should be required to prove its needs. Authority to grant rate increases above and beyond what is necessary to provide quality services to its customers is "unfair" to say the least and shows PUCO to be unresponsive to the needs of the citizens.

I applaud OSCO's objections to the rate increase and also urge citizens of New Boston and throughout Scioto county to contact the Ohio Consumers' Council, the residential utility consumer advocate, which represents the interests of 4.5 million households in proceedings before state and federal regulators in the courts. Residential customers in New Boston and throughout Scioto County are encouraged to call toll free-1-877-742-5622 or visit the OCC website at www.pickocc.org.

Mike Payton
12-16-08

NEW BOSTON VILLAGE TO HAVE ANNUAL TOY DRIVE
AND CHRISTMAS WITH SANTA

I recently had the opportunity to talk with Officer Diane Davis who is heading up the annual toy drive for local children in the village. The New Boston Police Department began last month collecting names and donations for this year's Children's Christmas Fund.

Each year the police department collects new toys and clothes as well as accepts monetary donations and then a week before Christmas it delivers all the gifts to needy children around New Boston with Santa Claus riding in the old fashion fire truck. For those wishing to donate items instead of cash, Officer Davis asks that if the gift is already wrapped, please identify on the package whether it is for a boy or girl, and the clothing sizes, if applicable. If you are interested in donating with a new gift or money, contact Diane Davis at the New Boston Police Department, 740-456-4109.

On December 6, starting at 9 a.m., the Village of New Boston will host its annual Christmas with Santa. The event will take place at the New Boston Community Center on Rhodes Avenue. The breakfast, for children throughout the New Boston area, includes an opportunity for the kids to talk with Santa, have a nice breakfast, and enjoy a good time with friends.

I would like to personally congratulate all the employees of the Village of New Boston; i.e. the Service Department, Police Department , the Fire Department, and the village office staff, for their unselfish contribution to our local children. This work is all done on a voluntary basis and in many cases provides the only Christmas many of these children will have.

Mike Payton
11-20-08

TWO NEW BOSTON BUSINESSES CELEBRATE DECADES
OF SUCCESS IN VILLAGE

In the past month, two local businesses in New Boston have reached milestones that I would like to take time to recognize and congratulate.

Bert's Pet Center recently celebrated 50 years of service to the New Boston community.
Bert's Pet Center is locally owned and operated by Jim Wente and his family. The pet store recently opened its newest store in the old Charlie's Carryout building, 3238 Gallia Street, New Boston. It is totally remodeled and offers fish, dogs, cats, reptiles, small pets, pet supplies, and most other pet needs.

The business now operates another store at Diederich Blvd., in Ashland, Kentucky, with the same type of efficient service and dedication the customers in New Boston have enjoyed for 50 years.

K-Mart has now served the New Boston community for 30 years. It was the anchor store for the first mall to be located in the village. Although owned by corporate investors, the store has maintained a strong and personal relationship with the community and was instrumental in proving that mall shopping was not only attractive to the New Boston area but to the Scioto County area as well.

What is referred to by many as the "K-Mart Mall" was the first major economic development to come into New Boston after the closing of the mill. It was the beginning of two additional mall sites in New Boston and led to such stores as Wal-Mart, Goodys, Bob Evans, Applebees, Radio Shack, Staples and many other businesses locating in our village.

At the November 18, 2008, village council meeting, I had the pleasure of proposing resolutions to honor both of these long-term businesses in our town. The resolutions passed unanimously and shows the village's great appreciation for the dedication to our community both of these businesses have demonstrated over decades of fantastic service.

Mike Payton
11-19-08

OPPORTUNITY FOR NEW BOSTON TO HAVE NEW SCHOOLS IS TO GOOD TO PASS UP - THIS IS OUR TIME!

On November 4, voters of New Boston will decide whether to approve a 7.61-mill levy on property owners, that if passed, will eventually collect approximately $3 million used to pay the local share of funding for a new $20 million K-12 school building. The remaining 83 percent will be funded by the Ohio School Facilities Commission.

Over the last several months I have worked on the New Building Committee with local citizens, school personnel and other members of council. We have met with community leaders, students, local residents and business owners talking about the new schools and what the process entails to make this project become a reality. On October 21, at the New Boston Village Council meeting, our council unanimously approved a resolution to endorse the levy and the new schools.

As most of you know, voters in Northwest, Wheelersburg, Portsmouth, Portsmouth West, South Webster and Minford all approved new schools for their children. Most recently the Clay Local School District voted for new schools and construction is scheduled to begin in the near future for those new buildings. It is now time for us, the citizens of New Boston, to give our children the same opportunities children in these other communities have received.

There have been many concerns about locations available for the new schools. Some of the available properties in New Boston are in flood plains. The New Boston School Board has determined that the property, once where the community swimming pool was, will be the site of the new school. This site is in a 500 year flood plain. Before any facility will be built on this site, the Army Corps of Engineers will make a final determination that the property has been developed in such a way to ensure that all federal, state and local regulations are complied with and the architects for the project will, along with the school board and village government, provide the corps with any information they may need to make their necessary and correct conclusions. Additionally, the Ohio School Facilities Commission has appropriated $2,000,000.00 to the total project for site remediation, which could include excavation of the hillside if needed. Safety for the children, local area residents and the entire community will be priority one as this school is constructed.

With regard to the size of the building, the Ohio Schools Facilities Commission has the ultimate authority in determining the amount of buildings as well as the number of classrooms. This determiniation is based upon a review that includes the number of students currently enrolled with our school system. This design, with little or no wasted space will place all emphasis on learning through innovative classroom spaces and team teaching.

With regard to what the cost will be to the homeowner, computations based on your property's value is available at the Scioto County Auditor's Webpage,
http://oh-scioto-auditor.governmax.com/propertymax/rover30.asp Please also don't forget that your won't be paying the current emergency levy after 2010.

In the final analysis, it really comes down to whether we as a community can afford not to pass the levy and build the new school. I can tell you the average age of our current schools is 93.3 years old. Stanton Elementary was built in 1913; Oak Street Elementary was built in 1913 and Glenwood High School was built in 1917. As with other structures throughout the county and across the nation, there comes a time when the costs to remodel outweigh the costs to rebuild. With regard to our current schools, the Ohio School Facilities Commission has determined through a careful and indepth examination that this time has arrived.

To pay 17% of an estimated $20 million dollar project and have the remaining 83% paid by the state is an awsome opportunity for our children and our future. Obviously we all believe our children are well worth the investment. The community will benefit as the potential for additional students will increase with state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. This will allow for families to move into the community and want to stay. And the surrounding area will see benefits as well, with various construction companies employing people to work on the project. Local businesses, churches and the community will all be winners. This is an opportunity we cannot afford to pass on. This is our community's time, it is our time, and most importantly, it is our children's time!

Mike Payton
October 22, 2008

REVIEW OF ADEQUATE ROAD SALT SUPPLY FOR NEW BOSTON A PRIORITY AS WINTER APPROACHES

At the last two council meetings discussion about purchasing an adequate supply of road salt for the village has occurred. Mayor Warren has assured council that he has purchased enough road salt to get us through the winter months.

Cost and demand have both became factors in why I have urged the mayor and council to move quickly to secure enough road salt to satisfy the unpredictable needs we may very well face this winter.

In a report by John Mahoney, of the Ohio Municipal League, it was made clear that Ohio and many other Midwestern states face a crisis without precedent. Though it now appears that most of ODOT's needs and the needs of our larger cities will be met, although at greatly increased cost, the same is not true for our medium-sized cities, suburbs and small villages such as New Boston.

This year alone, prices for road salt range from approximately $40.00 a ton in some northern Ohio communities up to $175.00 a ton in southern Ohio. As Mr. Mahoney points out in his report, with which I totally agree , the problem of adequate supplies of road salt is not an option but a public necessity. Employers rely on clear streets to get their workers safely to work as well as for the shipment of materials, foodstuffs, and merchandise. Families rely on clear streets to get their children off to school safely. Public safety demands that we have an entirely usable, integrated transportation system throughout the state for moving goods, services and people.

The salt industry explains the shortage in various theories. It professes that supply is inadequate because of the large demand during last winter throughout the Midwest which depleted their supply. The industry also says that spring flooding on the Mississippi disrupted barge traffic from Louisiana without which more salt could have been shipped to replenish Midwest supplies.

As Mr. Mahoney correctly points out, there does come a time when one has to wonder if a state like Ohio, which produces over 2 1/2 million tons of salt from it public lands under Lake Erie, should ever be short of salt, at a reasonable price, for every public entity in the state. The question also arises that maybe the salt industry is taking a look at the "legalized extortion" the oil industry is getting by with in this country and wanting in on the action.

As of now, council has been assured that there will be enough road salt available for the village throughout the winter. We do need to monitor the usage closely as the winter develops to insure our needs are met.

Mike Payton
09-30-08

NEW BOSTON VOTERS WILL DETERMINE FATE OF NEW SCHOOLS

As most of you know, New Boston voters will be asked to approve moving forward with the building of new schools for the village. The community share for the project will be 17% of the total cost. The state of Ohio will pay 83%, which is a once in a lifetime offer. This entire opportunity became available when the Ohio School Facilities Commission conducted a facilities audit in 2007 where it was determined it would cost more to remodel our current school buildings than it would to build new ones.

The average age of our current schools is 93.3 years old. Stanton School and Oak Street School were built in 1913. Glenwood High School, our most recent structure, was built in 1917. Our children deserve the same opportunities as children throughout Scioto County as well as other areas of the state where new schools are being built. With new schools comes the possibility that we will attract new students and their families into the community as well as additional students due to open enrollment.

New Boston resident's millage for the project will be 7.61 mills. To the average property tax payer residing in New Boston, for a home valued at $30,000, new schools will cost you $5.00 a month or 17 cents per day. For a home valued at $50,000, new schools will cost you $9.00 per month or 30 cents per day. For you individual costs, please access the Scioto County Auditor's website at http://oh-scioto-auditor.governmax.com/propertymax/rover30.asp

It is estimated that if the millage is passed, completion of the project should be by August, 2011. The building design will eliminate interaction between the grade spans. Each span will have individual accommodations with the exceptions being the gymnasium and cafeteria.

On September 29, at 7PM, in the Glenwood High School Auditorium, the New Schools for New Boston Committee will host a community meeting to present information on this wonderful opportunity for our children and our community. Information discussed will include building location, tax information, architect presentation and there will also be a question and answer period.

I encourage all New Boston residents to come to this meeting on September 29, listen to our presentations, talk to us, ask questions and join us in making this opportunity a reality for our children and their children.

Mike Payton
09-21-08

SCIOTO FOUNDATION PRESENTS OPPORTUNITY FOR
NEW BOSTON STUDENTS TO ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIPS

I was recently appointed by Melinda Burnside, Glenwood High School principal, as part of a team representing the New Boston School District that would develop scholarship opportunities for our local students with the assistance of the Scioto Foundation.

Our team, consisting of Paul Mayberry, Lille Mohr, Shelly Hickman-Aeh, Melinda Burnside and myself, attended the initial training program at the Welcome Center in Portsmouth, Ohio, September 16, 2008. The program is a partnership of the Ohio Board of Regents and the Ohio College Access Network designed to strengthen economies through an educated workforce.

The role of the Scioto Foundation in the partnership with local schools is to oversee investment and spending policies, distribute scholarships to colleges and universities to benefit local students, accept and invest contributions, assist with complex gifts, perform donor/acknowledgement and most importantly offer a one-to-one match of up to $10,000.00 a year as part of the continuing endowment for graduating seniors.

The Scioto Foundation in collaboration with local school districts is establishing these endowments with the help of teams chosen from the school administrations for reasons which include: (1) increasing the quality of life for area residents, (2) give more local young people the chance for post-secondary education, (3) increase high school graduation rate, (4) increase college educated workforce in Scioto County, and (5) increase the number of local graduates who stay in the region.

Our team will explore options for reaching the initial $10,000.00 on an annual basis and consistently qualify for the $10,000.00 match by the Scioto Foundation, providing Glenwood graduates the opportunity to share in $20,000.00 of scholarship money each year. My personal thanks to Ms. Burnside for my appointment and I look forward to making this worthwhile project a reality.

Mike Payton
9-16-08

NEW BOSTON WELCOMES "PETLAND" TO
THE VILLAGE MALL

It was my privilege this past weekend to attend the grand opening of the new Petland store in the Village Mall.

Brian and Deirde Chabot are the owners and I had the opportunity to talk with Brian about the new store and the huge crowd that initially came through the doors as the store opened for the first time. Mr. Chabot made it very clear to me that he was impressed with the New Boston community and was thrilled to be in the new Village Mall.

Sierra's Haven Animal Shelter appears to be developing a close working relationship with Petland. According to Jackie Stephenson, the New Boston Petland manager, "Sierra's Haven is coming down and bringing some adoptive pets. We're going to help them get adopted unwanted and abused kittens and puppies. We're going to help them find homes, and we will donate litter and food and stuff like that."

Chabot told the Daily Times, "This mall is going to be very productive for the Portsmouth area and New Boston. It's going to be a shopping center that is more of a regional location than just a local location."

We in the New Boston community are all very happy to have Petland join our family of businesses and the continued economic growth the village is experiencing. Please visit the Petland store sometime soon and welcome the Chabots and their staff to our growing community.

Mike Payton
08-24-08

MIRANDA CALL NAMED MISS RIVERDAYS
CANDIDATE FOR NEW BOSTON

It is my pleasure to congratulate Miranda Call for being named the Riverdays candidate for New Boston Glenwood High School. Miranda is a role model for the students at Glenwood and for young people everywhere.

Miranda is the daughter of Jodi Conkel and David Call. She is a 17 year-old senior who participates in volleyball, basketball, softball and cheerleading. She has been involved in various community projects and serves on the student council. After she graduates, Miranda plans to attend West Virginia University and work toward being a Forensic Specialist.

The Riverdays pagent is a showcase for young ladies from high schools all over Scioto County. It is a once in a lifetime experience and the participants work throughout their summer raising money, doing community service and also maintaining their high school committments. All these young ladies deserve a tremendous amount of credit and praise.

Glenwood High School and the community of New Boston should be very proud of Miranda Call. Crowning of the 2008 Riverdays Queen will be Saturday, August 30, at the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts on the campus of Shawnee State University.

Mike Payton
08-05-08

"OUTLOUD FEST" A HUGE SUCESS IN
NEW BOSTON STADIUM

Saturday, July 26, the Outloud Fest came to New Boston Stadium. This youth festival, sponsored in part by the Unity Fellowship Church in New Boston, was a wonderful experience which included Christian rock bands, professional wrestling, free blood pressure screenings from Southern Ohio Medical Center, and all the food, pop and water you could want. There was also booths selling posters, raffles, and many other events for young children.

As one of New Boston's youth leaders over the years, it was a great pleasure to watch young teenagers from the community and from other areas of the county come to New Boston, enjoy our stadium, parks and community. There were no problems and the church seen to it the stadium was completely cleaned before closing up on Saturday night.

I had the pleasure of attending the event with councilpersons Steve Hamilton and Shelly Hickman-Aeh. Both of those colleagues have worked with our local youth for many years and we all three were very excited. We all hope that the Outloud Fest returns to New Boston for many years to come.

I want to extend a special thanks to Mr. Jerry Horton, who is the youth leader for the Unity Fellowship Church. He, pastor Jack Howard and the other volunteers all made sure order was kept throughout a very hot day.
The Outloud Fest started at noon and ran until 10:00 p.m.

With all the negative things that get reported about young people today, it is wonderful to see such a great positve event take place. New Boston, like communities throughout the United States, need people like Jerry Horton, Jack Howard, the Unity Fellowship Church, and the many other volunteers throughout our community to help guide these kids in the right direction....to Christ, to family values, to respect for others.

One of the greatest rewards I will ever have has been the opportunity to work with the young people in our area for many years. We need to do all we can to keep our young people here in New Boston and the surrounding areas. We cannot expect to ever rebuild our community successfully unless we include a plan for our young people. We need more events like the Outloud Fest and I hope other churches, businesses, and government entities get on the bandwagon soon. This was a great event for all of us and Outloud Fest is welcome in New Boston anytime.

Mike Payton
07-27-08

REPRESENTING NEW BOSTON AS MEMBER OF DOE's COMMUNITY ADVISORY BOARD FOR PIKETON CLEANUP BOTH AN HONOR AND RESPONSIBILITY

It was with both a sense of honor and responsibility that I have accepted an appointment from the United States Department of Energy to the Site Specific Advisory Board (SSAB) for its Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Piketon, Ohio. I will be representing the New Boston community on the board.

The SSAB will also be known as a Community Advisory Board and including myself, has 21 members from Southern Ohio and Kentucky. According to U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown, who made the announcement on July 24, 2008, "I look forward to working with the CAB as we tackle together the tough issues related to the Piketon cleanup. We will make sure the cleanup is determined by the residents of Southern Ohio, rather than out-of-state bureaucrats. We can make sure this cleanup is done quickly and done right."

Although dramatically different in terms of type of contamination from the areas surrounding the old mill and coke plant sites, the contamination at some of the areas at the Piketon plant are radioactive and obviously the wrong cleanup process could result in disasterous consequences for not just New Boston but the entire southern Ohio and Kentucky areas.

My understanding is that each DOE clean-up site utilizes a community advisory board to assist with decisions regarding clean-up issues. These involve the removal of nuclear and toxic contaminants and the future of buildings and materials on the sites.

We will be serving in a voluntary capacity, without compensation. The term for each member is two years, with a limit of no more than three two-year terms. Our first public meeting is tentatively scheduled for early September with the official date being announced in the next few weeks.

As many of you know, the Piketon site began operation in 1954 as part of the DOE's nuclear weapons complex. The site supplied weapons-grade enriched uranium and later uranium used in the commercial nuclear power industry. In 2001, the site ceased operations. At one time, the site employed nearly 3000 employees and it houses some of the largest industrial buildings in the world.

Mike Payton
07-29-08

DRUG & CRIME PROBLEMS IN NEW BOSTON BEING ADDRESSED

On July 15, 2008, at the New Boston Village Council Meeting, many citizens and business owners appeared and asked council to deal with the rising drug and other crime problems that are escalating in the village.

First I would like to thank all those who attended the meeting, whether they spoke or not. It is my hope they, along with other residents of New Boston return to our council meetings, actually it is their council meetings. We are here to serve the citizens.

Over the past week I have met with various citizens in New Boston, talked with the building managers of Buckeye Towers, New Boston Commons, and Cliffside Apartments and will be meeting with the operating board of the New Boston Kiwanis Apartments next week. I also personally passed out brochures with information on who to call and what to report, to the people living on both Stanton Avenue and on Vine Streets. This Sunday I have seen to it that those same brochures will be available in some of our community churches.

I plan to give the input from my meetings to Police Chief Darrell Clark along with my recommendations this upcoming week. Village council will be convening its budget/finance committee later this week to try to appropriate money for an additional police officer and it is my understanding we now have one officer assigned exclusively to working with the drug problems. Increased patrols on Stanton Avenue have began.

It is my personal belief that we, the council and the mayor's office have all been negligent in allowing these problems to occur and affect the safety of our citizens. Complacency can be a very dangerous thing. Thanks to our citizens, the mayor and the council have been given a wake-up call. Now it is time for us to step up to the plate. I can promise you I will do everything I can to help control and eliminate this horiffic problem in our community. But I do need your help. Please continue to come to the council meetings, voice your concerns or meet with me privately after the meeting. The council meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.

Also, please report any suspicion of ciminal conduct to the police department at 456-4109 or call the hotline at 456-4144. You do not have to give your name or any form of identification. You can also email me here at mpayton55@hotmail.com. All emails and telephone calls I get are kept in total confidence.

Mike Payton
07-20-08

DESCO FEDERAL CREDIT UNION TO OPEN WALK-UP WINDOW AT NEW BOSTON BRANCH

It is my pleasure to announce that in the next month, DESCO Federal Credit Union will be opening a walk-up window at the New Boston Branch.

Many New Boston residents have been concerned since the New Boston Branch closed its walk-in area. I have heard from many citizens of both New Boston and the surrounding areas wanting additional services at the New Boston branch. Over the past few months I have met with John Mahle, Director of Operations, Lee Powell, President of DESCO Federal Credit Union, and Claude Duckworth of the credit union's Board of Directors, discussing the community's desire to open more services to our community.

Based on the community's feedback to the credit union, the growing industries in New Boston, the new mall, and the possible addition of Infra-Metals, DESCO Federal Credit Union made the decision to open a walk-in window at the New Boston branch. This window will enable customers to go into the building once more to conduct business.

I personally want to thank Mr. Powell, Mr. Mahle and Mr. Duckworth, for listening to our community's needs and responding positively. The actual opening date for the window will be announced by DESCO Federal Credit Union within the next month.

Mike Payton
07-01-2008

PETITION DRIVE FOR POST OFFICE IN NEW BOSTON COMPLETED

As many of you know, we have been conducting a petition drive in New Boston and the surrounding areas over the last few weeks that would hopefully lead to a new post office being placed in the village.

Since the True Value store left town, New Boston has been with no post office. This has not only impacted the citizens of New Boston, but also people in North Moreland, Eden Park, Mildale and the eastern parts of Portsmouth, i.e. Walnut Street, Gallia Street areas.

As New Boston has been increasing in business over the past couple of years and people from not only out of town, but from out of state, coming into the village to shop or conduct business, and with the Infra Metals plant looking at locating in New Boston, the need for a post office in the community is more dramatic than ever before.

I would like to thank everyone who has worked with me in the petition drive. Their dedication and concern for the community is admirable. Several churches along with individual volunteers and family members all participated and I want them all to know how much I appreciate their efforts.

A resolution has been submitted at the May 20th village council meeting directing the mayor to send copies of all the petitions to U.S. Senators George Voinovich and Sherrod Brown, U.S. Representative Jean Schmidt, Congressman Todd Book and Governor Ted Strickland. Hopefully at least one of these people will be able to convince the United States Postal Service that New Boston, Ohio, deserves a post office once again. The mayor will also write letters of support for the post office on our behalf to each of the civil servants. I would urge each of the citizens of New Boston and surrounding areas to write letters as well.

Finally I would like to say that I have enjoyed going out in the community and collecting signatures and meeting everyone again. Many of you I haven't seen since the election and it was good to talk to all of you again. Please continue to stay in touch via the email or by telephone and frequent this online office for updates on what is going on in the community. The post office is a vital issue, but others will come before us and it is very important for us all to work together. Please continue to let me know you thoughts.

Mike Payton
05-20-08

NEW BOSTON VILLAGE EMPLOYEES HAVE NEW HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN

At the May 6 council meeting, village council unanimously voted to approve a new health insurance plan for all full-time village employees. This process was carried out thoroughly through a specially selected committee, appointed by council and composed of employees of the service, fire and police departments, along with the Mayor, Village Administrator and councilwoman Shelly Hickman-Aeh.

Bids were received from several different insurance providers and interviews between representatives from those providers and the committee were conducted. Each proposal was taken to the different departments so each employee had the opportunity to review the different plans.

The recommendation of the committee, based on the interviews and feedback from the different departments, was then presented to the village council for final approval. At the May 6 meeting, the New Boston Village Council unanimously approved an ordinance authorizing the mayor to enter into an agreement with Anthem Health Care for a fully insured group medical insurance plan for all full-time employees of the Village of New Boston effective June 1, 2008 through April 30, 2009. Portsmouth Insurance Agency will be the agent.

Mike Payton
5-16-08

MONTH OF MAY DECLARED "NEW BOSTON LOCAL SCHOOLS TEACHER/STAFF APPRECIATION MONTH"

It is important to remember that although teachers can instruct our students in math, science, and social studies, they can also give our children the will to continue to learn for the remainder of their lives. A gift of never-ending education is one for which we cannot show enough gratitude. The tremendous responsibility of teachers should be met with equally dramatic displays of appreciation.

We must also keep in mind that our schools provide more than teachers to produce a high-quality education. Support staff are vital to a school district's performance. Custodians, bus drivers, cooks, secretarys and administrators all are essential in the development of our children's educational process.

I had the opportunity at the May 5, 2008, New Boston Village Council meeting to introduce a resolution declaring the Month of May, 2008, as "New Boston Local Schools Teacher/Staff Appreciation Month," in New Boston. The motion, seconded by councilwoman Shelly Hickman-Aeh, was approved unanimously. I believe there is a two-fold reason for this resolution being so important: (1) it recognizes the hard work and dedication of the entire faculty of the New Boston Local Schools, and (2) it shows that the council and the school district are united in their concern for the youth of the community and in their appreciation for the school district's place in the village.

As the village grows and we move forward, it is imperative that a solid foundation for our children's education is in place. That institution must have quality people leading the way, both academically and in a supportive role. The New Boston Local School District has such quality people throughout the entire system, dedicated to the education of our children. It is our responsibilty as parents and citizens to not let this great asset someday slip away.

Mike Payton
05-05-08

NEWVILLE LITTLE LEAGUE TO OPEN SEASON MAY 3, 2008

Little League baseball returns to the New Boston area the weekend of May 3, 2008. The New Boston Little League was one of the original little leagues chartered through Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Little leagues now in Wheelersburg, Clay and at one time, Sciotoville, all were part of the original New Boston Little League. In the early 1960's, the New Boston Little League 11 and 12 year-old boys participated in the Little League World Series, finishing 5th in the world.

New Boston Little League continued through the years, usually with five little league boys teams, plus junior and senior boys baseball, girls softball, t-ball and pitching machine teams.

The New Boston Kiwanis Club has always sponsored the charter for the league. Several years ago, Sciotoville was unable to maintain enough children to operate their little league so it was merged into New Boston and the name of the league was changed to Newville Little League.

As many of you know, I have had the fortunate opportunity to be part of the little league program in New Boston for the past 30 years, serving as coach, manager, board member, concession stand worker and umpire. It has been a fantastic experience and I have met so many wonderful young people and adults. The New Boston community has always supported myself, my brother Jerry, and many others who have worked so tirelessly for the benefit of our children over the years and we all say thank you.

As in other communities, when the economy changes so too does the community. New Boston's population has dropped over the years and it follows that youth programs would drop off as we just don't have the families in the community now that we once did. This year, however, as in so many years before, New Boston will hold its opening day once again, May 3, starting at 10 a.m.

A special thanks needs to go out to the many sponsors that have donated money to the league this year so we can have the bats, balls, uniforms and other items needed to make the league a success.

If you can't make it to opening day, please come out sometime throughout the year and enjoy being with the kids. We have a great future in New Boston. Please support the kids not only in little league but the other area youth activities such as youth basketball and youth soccer.

Mike Payton
4-28-08

ALL VILLAGE CLEAN-UP DAY - SATURDAY, APRIL 26TH

What would it look like if every resident of New Boston got together and cleaned up our community? Well, this coming Saturday, April 26, 2008, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., we are all going to find out what will happen. It is the first All Village Clean-Up Day,
organized by councilwoman Shelly Hickman-Aeh. Sponsors of this event are Hickies Hamburger Inn, Wal-Mart, Wagner Rental and Supply, Blackburn's Supermarket and Compton Printing.

This event will incorporate the citizens of New Boston, the New Boston Council and the New Boston Village Service Department as we try to make a "clean" sweep of the New Boston community. We encourage all citizens to help by not only cleaning up their own property but helping us clean up the village as well. Pick up litter off the sidewalk and off the street in front of your residence, clean off your porches and cut tall weeds and grass.

Dumpsters will be set beside the old Wal-Mart Building from 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Please bring any large items you wish to dispose of, any bags of trash you cannot fit into a trash can. Anyone needing garbage bags for this event can pick them up at the old Wal-Mart the day of the event.

We do want to point out that we cannot accept any of the following items: tires, car batteries, air conditioners, refrigerators, paint and any asbestos products.

Volunteers are needed to help with the clean-up of public areas such as parks and schools and to assist the elderly & disabled citizens with the property. If you would like to volunteer for this great event, please call Shelly Hickman-Aeh at 740-821-3283. Seniors and the disabled may schedule curbside pick-up by calling 456-4103 before April 24.

While we are talking about the clean-up day, lets take a moment and talk about Recycling in New Boston. All citizens who wish to recycle can bring their paper and plastic to the recycling dumpsters which are permanently located on the parking lot at the K-Mart Mall near the Hong Kong Buffet. The trash you bring for recycling does not need to be sorted. Just bring it to the dumpster and drop it in.

Community Action Organization currently is running a program to help citizens dispose of vehicles they no longer want. If you have a vehicle you would like to be scrapped, call Mr. Charlie Burke at 740-727-2958 and CAO will pick up the vehicle and dispose of it for you. Any money earned from scrapping the car will be split between CAO and the owner.

The All Village Clean-Up Day, besides serving a great purpose, also gives our New Boston Community the opportunity to come together, to work together and enjoy fellowship and help remind us that we all can and must work together to make our community stronger and more stable for our children and our children's children. Please join us all Saturday, April 26th, and help make this wonderful event a huge success.

Mike Payton
4-18-08

NEW BOSTON TO GET NEW POWER POLES & LIGHTING

Due to legislation in the federal Energy Policy Act of 2005, there became a need for American Electric Power to replace the remaining Mercury Vapor Streetlights in our system. As of now, there are 113 (20,000-Lumens) Mercury Vapor Streetlights in the village, mostly all along the State thoroughfares. American Electric Power will replace them with the equivalent size 22,000 High-Pressure sodium fixtures.

Back in August of 2007, the village received a proposal for the replacement of the lighting system from American Electric Power, and also several options regarding the metal power poles. As you know, most of the power poles are rusted, leaning and otherwise providing a negative appearance throughout the village.

After my election to council, this proposal was brought before the Utilities and Communications subcommittee I chair, along with fellow councilmen Junior Williams and Steve Hamilton. We conducted two public meetings, one of which, Larry Hacker, Customer Service Representative of American Electric Power appeared, and answered questions regarding the following options:

(1) AEP replaces mercury fixtures with sodium, retains ownership of steel poles.
(2) AEP replaces mercury fixtures with sodium & steel poles with wood.
(3) AEP replaces mercury fixtures with sodium, Village assumes ownership of steel poles.
(4) Village owns steel poles & mercury lights along Gallia and Rhodes. Metered service. AEP owns and maintains
remaining sodium fixtures on wood poles.
(5) Village owns steel poles and installs sodium lights Gallia and Rhodes. Metered service. AEP owns and maintains
remaining sodium fixtures on wood poles.

After much review and discussion, our subcommittee voted unanimously to choose option 2, whereby AEP replaces mercury fixtures with sodium and steel poles with wood. It is estimated that this option will save the taxpayers of New Boston an estimated $5,156.52 annually. The full council then approved the subcommittee's decision and Mayor Warren has since written a letter to Mr. Hacker confirming the village's desire to move forward. In a telephone follow-up call I had with Mr. Hacker earlier this week, he stated to me he thinks there is a good possibility that the new poles and lighting will be completely in place by the end of the year.

Mike Payton
4-5-08

ACCESS SCIOTO COUNTY (ASC) IS A VITAL SERVICE TO NEW BOSTON RESIDENTS

In April, there will be a public hearing at the Scioto County Courthouse to discuss the eliminating of the Access Scioto County transportation services for Saturdays. The service will continue to be provided as before, Monday through Friday. High fuel costs and other economic reasons are causing the elimination of Saturday service.

In New Boston, the ASC vans are seen on a daily basis, going to Buckeye Towers, Kiwanis, and some local homes taking New Boston citizens not only shopping but to doctor appointments, hospital exams, and other personal destinations our citizens would not be able to otherwise attend. I think it is important that we have this very necessary service in our community and I urge all New Boston citizens to speak out if any additional services provided by ASC appear to be in danger of terminating in the future. A call to a county commissioner or our mayor would certainly be in order if this occurs.

ASC operates under the auspices of the Scioto County Commissioners and provides curb-to-curb transportation service to all of Scioto County and South Shore, Kentucky. ASC also offers a same day immediate Demand Response service called "Instant Access," for a limited area within New Boston, Portsmouth, and Rosemount Monday through Friday from 7AM to 4PM. Their telephone number, 355-2287, is also on the home page of this website.

ASC is funded in part by grants from the Federal Transit Administration, the Ohio Department of Transportation's (ODOT) Office of Transit and the Scioto County Commissioners. Access Scioto County (ASC) grew out of a grass-roots effort in the early 1990's by concerned citizens and social service and government agencies that came together to work towards establishing a county-wide coordinated transportation system to improve transportation services for citizens of Scioto County of which transportation was either unavailable, insufficient or inappropriate.

In September of 1993, the Scioto County Commissioners and the Scioto County Transportation Committee applied for and received from the Ohio Department of Transportation a coordinated transportation grant. This grant provided funding for capital and technical assistance to facilitate the establishment of a coordinated transportation project in Scioto County and included funds for a transportation consultant. Eventually the first passengers were transported in 1996. Since then, ASC has established partnerships with several local agencies including Scioto County MRDD, United Scioto Senior Activities, Inc., and RSVP, as well as others that were already providing transportation services for elderly persons and persons with disability.

Below is a letter to the editor I wrote to the Portsmouth Daily Times Editorial Page reflecting the New Boston area's support of the ASC services:

Village of New Boston
Michael Payton
Councilman
4378 Rhodes Avenue
New Boston, Ohio 45662
(740) 456-5173
mikepayton.net
mpayton55@hotmail.com
March 22, 2008

Portsmouth Daily Times
Letters to the Editor
637 Sixth Street
Portsmouth, Ohio 45662

Dear Editor:

On behalf of the hundreds of people in New Boston who utilize the transportation services of Access Scioto County, we would like to say thank you for being there for all of us. The ASC transports many of our citizens to Portsmouth and surrounding areas for doctors appointments and various other personal needs vital to their lives. Local merchants in New Boston also appreciate the ASC bringing shoppers into our community. The ASC provides a very necessary need for our community and we want to thank the administration, support staff and drivers who work so diligently to help make our citizens life a little happier.

Mike Payton, Councilman
New Boston Village Council

Mike Payton
3-22-08

NEW BOSTON STUDENTS RECOGNIZED FOR PARTICIPATION IN SCIOTO COUNTY SCIENCE FAIR

It is my pleasure to recognize these young people from New Boston's Oak Street School for their participation in the 2008 Scioto County Science Fair. Congratulations go to Jennifer Adkins, teacher and principal Diane Chamberlin for the dedicated work and care they give all their students.
2008 SCIOTO COUNTY SCIENCE FAIR
Life Center/Friends Center
Oak Street School

5TH GRADE
Marlena Patterson
"Germs on Surfaces"

Andrew Carpenter
"Which Glue Dries Fastest?"

Marie Darnell
"Which Tooth Paste gets your teeth the cleanest?"

McKensey Lawless
"Which paper towel absorbs the most water?"

Ashley Adkins
"Which whitening tooth pastes work best?"

Taylor Baldridge/Erin Johnson
"Which face wash gets your face the cleanest?"

6th GRADE
Haley Broughton
"Does music affect blood pressure?"

Teagan Queen
"Does music affect heart rate?"

Lyndsee Lykins
"Battery Power"

Corey Hamilton/James Mohr
"Fruit Battery"

Keirsten McGraw/Kaitlyn Fannin
"Which laundry detergent gets clothes the cleanest?"

Emily Waugh
"Which mouth wash kills the most germs?"

NEW BOSTON CITIZENS MUST HELP PROTECT THE FUTURE OF SOCIAL SECURITY

Most of our seniors in New Boston know, better than most, the absolute necessity of Social Security. The arrival of their benefit check is essential and for more than 70 years it's been guaranteed regardless of hard economic times.

It is no exaggeration to suggest that the Social Security checks on which our New Boston citizens depend could be undermined by efforts to privatize the system. Social Security privatization would subject the livelihood of workers to the volatile movements of the financial markets. Some people may do better than others with stock market gains, but many southern Ohioians as well as New Boston families could lose a lifetime of their savings in a single day.

If Social Security is privatized, the arrival of a Social Security check for many families in our community could no longer be guaranteed. When the market falls into a tailspin, it is the privileged few at the top--not the ordinary workers--who would reap the rewards.

Social Security has always been a safety net for many of us in New Boston as well as southern Ohio, and not a roulette wheel for financial profit. It is an opportunity to share in a dignified and respectable living, and gambling with that opportunity is as unseemly as gambling with your weekly grocery money. We cannot be lured into trading away our safety net without adequate thought as to who the winners and losers would be under a privatized system.

Social Security came to us from the World War II Generation intended for this and future generations. It was forged from their suffering and resiliency during the Great Depression, and now the task falls to us here in New Boston, southern Ohio, and throughout the country to preserve this great gift for future generations.

In 1935, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the law creating Social Security, he stated that the program would "give some measure of protection to the average citizen and to his family against the loss of a job and against poverty-ridden old age." That protection is just as necessary today, and we must not allow it to be weakened or taken away.

Please write to Senators George Voinovich, Sherrod Brown and U.S. Representatives Charlie Wilson and Jean Schmidt and urge them to vote against any future legislation to privatize Social Security.

Mike Payton
2-12-2008

HEATING FUEL PRICES ARE RISING: NATURAL GAS PRICES UP 6.3%,
HOME HEATING OIL PRICES UP 16%, PROPANE PRICES UP 12.9%,
AND ELECTRIC PRICES UP 2.3%

As New Boston residents can testify, heating bills have went up this winter as the temperature has dropped down. I wanted to share with you some information I received in a press release from Senator Sherrod Brown's office regarding efforts in Congress to include the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to be part of the overall economic stimulus package the Senate is currently considering.

"With energy prices out of control, we have to help people in desperate need pay for soaring heating costs this winter," Brown said. "More and more people qualify for LIHEAP assistance. Yet every year, the program runs out of funding, leaving the elderly and other vulnerable populations literally out in the cold. That's a breach of public safety and a lapse of human compassion."

The expected increase in heating costs in part reflects predictions of colder weather this year, requiring households to consume more energy to heat their homes. The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration is expecting this winter to be 4 percent colder than last year across the country. As a result, the Department of Energy expects that heating costs this winter will be 10 percent higher than last year.

Heating oil prices could be 16 percent higher this winter and the price of propane for heating is 12.9 percent higher than last winter, according to estimates by the Joint Economic Committee. The average US household is likely to spend $977.00 to heat their homes between October and March, according to forecasts released by the Department of Energy. That is an average of $88.00 per household over last winter's heating bill.

Heating oil prices in Ohio rose 48 cents per gallon since October of this year. Funding levels for LIHEAP are insufficient to meet current need.

According to Brown, "for an economic stimulus package to work, it must stabilize the economy and provide immediate assistance to Americans in desperate need."

I think we need to let Senator Brown know our thoughts on the Low Income Energy Assistance Program. In this region of Ohio where we have to make every cent count, it is imperative that we emphasize our strong support for this program to assist in our heating costs. Please contract Senator Brown by visiting his online office at www.senate.gov where easy email access is available. Or call (202) 224-2315. Also, use brown.senate.gov/contact.

Mike Payton
Feb. 3, 2008

NEW BOSTON KIWANIAN HONORED

The New Boston Kiwanis have long been a positive influence in our community. Over the years, the organization has maintained the charter for the local little league, paid memberships for local kids to attend the New Boston Pool and provided many other activities that both kids and adults have benefited from.

One of the leading figures of the New Boston Kiwanis is Carlos Elrod. This man has always been there for us who have ran the New Boston Little League. Anytime we have ever needed extra monies for supplies, field maintenance, and charter fees, Carlos Elrod has always been there with the New Boston Kiwanis. That cooperation and partnership still exists today and it was particularly important that as we have just held the organizational meeting for another little league season, that Charles Clevenger, another great New Boston Kiwanian, contributed an article on Carlos to the Portsmouth Daily Times. I would like to share that article with you now:

He often has been called, "Mr. Kiwanis." Perhaps the "handle" fits the man. Growing up in New Boston, during the difficult years of the Great Depression in the 1930s, Carlos Elrod, 81, was well acquainted with sharing with siblings. Those lean years etched strong values for living in Elrod's life.

Elrod, now a cancer patient under hospice care, was recently recognized by New Boston Kiwanis Club for 30-plus years of service to the youth of the community. During those years of Kiwanis membership, Elrod served as the club president three separate terms, served as lieutenant governor of Ohio Division Nine (aka-The Mighty Ninth), served as club treasurer for several years and as a member of New Boston Kiwanis Housing Board.

He and his disceased wife, Pearl, are the parents of three daughters, eight grand-children and 17 great grand-grandchildren. He was employed at the local steel mill for 42 years, serving 37 years as a supervisor. In recognition for his years of service and leadership, a contribution in his name has been made to Kiwanis International Foundation to serve children.

This article was printed in the January 20 issue of The Portsmouth Daily Times.

Mike Payton
1-20-08

HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE ONCE AGAIN!

Senior citizens who didn't apply for the homestead exemption last year, and the tax savings it means on bills now being mailed to property owners, will get another chance to sign up.

Starting today, county auditors throughout Ohio will again be accepting applications for the homestead exemption through June 2. Seniors who already are signed up do not need to reapply; the new enrollment period is designed primarily for individuals who were not previously eligible for the newly-expanded homestead exemption.

But for senior citizens and permanently and totally disabled Ohioans who were eligible last year and missed the October 1 deadline to sign up, the new enrollment period presents another opportunity to claim the exemption for the 2007 tax year. Homestead applications for the 2008 tax year (bills payable in 2009) are now available from the Ohio Department of Taxation or from county auditors. The new applications include a box, "Late application for prior year," that taxpayers may check if they also wish to claim the exemption for the 2007 tax year. Taxpayers may check the box as long as they are seeking the exemption for a home they have owned and lived in since Jan. 1, 2007. Completed applications should be submitted to the local county auditor.

How taxpayers receive the credit for late homestead exemption applications for 2007 will depend on when the applications are received and approved. Taxpayers may receive a corrected first half tax bill that includes the homestead savings, have the entire tax savings applied to the second half bill, or receive a refund in the form of a check later this year.

The expansion of the homestead exemption was a key component of the two-year state budget bill proposed by Gov. Ted Strickland and enacted by the Ohio General Assembly. The legislation generally allows all senior citizens and permanently and totally disabled Ohioans, regardless of income, to exempt $25,000 of the market value of the home they owned and lived in on Jan. 1, from property taxes. On average across Ohio, homeowners enrolled for the homestead exemption are expected to save about $400.00 this year.

If you have questions on how to file, please contact our New Boston Income Tax Director, Sharon W. Hamilton, or the mayor's office at (740) 456-4107.

Mike Payton
01-16-08
*Information from Portsmouth Daily Times

APPLEBEE'S TO OFFER UNIQUE EXPERIENCE

Well, as most of you know by now, Applebee's will be opening in the new Wal-Mart Supercenter soon. A article was recently placed in the Portsmouth Daily Times, and I thought I would share part of it with you.

When the new Applebee's restaurant opens in New Boston, customers who have been used to dining at Applebee's in other areas will see a totally new design.

According to Applebee's area director, Marco Castro, "It is a completely new design. It is a complete new look. In our company, it is actually the first store to look like that in the whole country; there is only three or four that look like that."

Castro said some of the new features customers will immediately see is the internal design. Castro says the walls will feature murals, much like those on the Portsmouth floodwall, depicting the history of the area. "We're very excited about the new design," says Castro. "The old Applebee's usually had pictures throughout the store, but the new stores are just huge murals like you have downtown."

Castro said he had an opening date of Jan. 28, but there is a slight glitch he hopes soon will be resolved so construction can resume. "Right now we're waiting on a permit from the state of Ohio, but the progress is a little bit shaky, but we are hoping to make the Jan. 28 deadline."

Matt Mullins, with the Industrial Compliance Division of the Ohio Department of Commerce, said a check of the records shows that two permits are pending. The first is a liquor license. Mullins said the other certification pending has to do with the building code.

Lindsay Showman will be the general manager of the new store. Ms. Showman brings experience to the job as she has worked at Applebee's in Huntington, W.Va., and Ashland, KY.

Castro said he is looking forward to being a part of the growth that has come to the area with the addition of the new Walmart Supercenter, and the apparent addition of one, and possibly two, steel-related industries.

New Boston Mayor Jim Warren said the new addition would have a positive effect on the overall community. "It's not just New Boston, it's a positive for Scioto County. We get the tax dollars, but the county and them will get the housing and other developments that come. It's just exciting to see the whole area benefit."

Castro said the restaurant will employ more than 150 people. "Our goal to open is 157 employees and at the moment we have 110." Showman said the company presently is taking applications.

As of now, if you are interested in applying, a trailor with administrative offices is set up right behind the new restaurant and someone is there Monday through Saturday from 9AM to 6PM.

Mike Payton
01-03-08

Ohio Minimum Wage Set to Increase on January 1

This article appeared in the December 30 edition of The Community Common, and I felt it important to share with any New Boston residents who may have missed it.

The Ohio Department of Commerce's Division of Labor and Worker Safety is reminding Ohioans that the state's minimum wage for most employees will increase January 1, to $7.00 per hour for non-tipped and to $3.50 per hour for tipped employees, plus tips.

Ohio's current minimum wage is $6.85 per hour for non-tipped employees and $3.43 per hour for tipped employees, plus tips.

On January 1, the increased state minimum wage will apply to employers that annually gross more than $255,000. Currently, Ohio's minimum wage applies to employers who gross more than $250,000 per year. The constitutional amendment passed by voters in November, 2006, states that Ohio's minimum wage shall increase on January 1 of each year by the rate of inflation.

The Ohio minimum wage has a different scale for:

(1) 14 and 15 year olds
(2) Employees who work for employers that currently gross $250,000 and less per year or $255,000 and less annually after January 1.

For those workers, the state minimum wage is the same as the federal minimum wage, that wage currently set at $5.85 per hour and will increase to $6.55 on July 24th.

Information on Ohio's minimum wage as of January 1, 2008, is available at www.com.state.oh.us/laws/pub/minimumWage.pdf.

Mike Payton
January 1, 2008

VA's Medical Clinic
Expands Local Services

Local veterans living in New Boston as well as Portsmouth and surrounding areas tired of traveling to Chillicothe to receive care from Veteran's Affairs Medical Center can breathe a sign of relief at the news of added services coming to the Portsmouth area.

The Chillicothe VA Medical Center operates five Community Based Outpatient Clinics, providing primary care in Athens, Cambridge, Lancaster, Marietta and Portsmouth. Located at 621 Broadway Street, the Portsmouth CBOC first opened in 1998.

The Portsmouth site soon will move from its current location to an all-new site, with expanded services, located in the corner of Gallia and Gay streets, on the fifth floor of the former Helig-Meyers building.

In the past, specialty services not provided at the Portsmouth CBOC were sent to nearby hospitals as a fee-based service, paid by the clinic. However, with these new services coming to the Portsmouth CBOC, they will be able to provide an added convenience to local veterans who previously needed to travel to Chillicothe for optometry and podiatry services.

In addition to these new services, the clinic continues to provide medical care, mental health and social work services. Also available in the clinic are EKGs, holter monitors, routine blood work, nutrition and diabetic programs, flu vaccinations, pharmacy services and most x-ray. Some x-rays requiring special procedures will still be sent to Chillicothe however.

According to officials with the VA, the local clinic currently serves approximately 2000 veterans in the Scioto County area, many from New Boston. It appears the new and expanded VA clinic will benefit our veterans living here in New Boston as well as throughout the Scioto county area. Let me know if you have any problems with this clinic or if there are additional services you would like to see the clinic provide and we will do our best to make sure your concerns are heard.

Michael Payton
01-01-2008

New Boston Glenwood High School
2007 Soccer and Volleyball Awards

It is always a privilege to talk about the local area youth. Recently several high school students from New Boston Glenwood High School were honored for their athletic achievements. It is my pleasure to recognize them here for you:

2007 Soccer Awards

ALL SOC

1st Team: Michael Salisbury
Justin Bowling
Josh Holbrook
Robert Waugh
Justin Lancaster

2nd Team: Brandon Gunnell
Matt Horner
Mychael Hamilton

SOC Player of the Year: Michael Salisbury

Sectional Champions

All-District

1st Team: Michael Salisbury
Justin Bowling
Mychael Hamilton

2nd Team: Robert Waugh

Honorable Mention: Josh Holbrook, Justin Lancaster

2007 Volleyball Awards

1st Team: Kelsey Toft
Katie Williams

2nd Team: Ginger Horsley
Kayla Wiley

SOC All-Star Team: Kelsey Toft, Katie Williams, Ginger Horsley

SOC Player of the Year: Katie Williams

Sectional Champions

All District

1st Team: Katie Williams

2nd Team: Kelsey Toft

Honorable Mention: Ginger Horsley

District All-Stars: Kelsey Toft, Katie Williams

Again, let me say congratulations to all these great young adults and we wish them the best thoughout their lives.

Tour of Lofts
& Other Historic Places

December 2, 2007, I had the privilege of hosting, along with building manager Bill Carson, the tour of the Portsmouth Masonic Temple Building. We had several people from the New Boston area join us throughout the day and I want to thank each of them for coming out on a rainy Sunday afternoon.

The beautiful Masonic Temple Building was begun in 1927 and completed in November of 1928. It was designed by architects Pretzinger and Musselman of Dayton, Ohio. The building was dedicated to great fanfare on February 14, 1929. The Aurora Lodge No. 48, F. & A.M., masonic order occupied the top four floors. It was also home to the Demolay, the Eastern Star and the Grotto. Bowling alleys, kitchens, lounges, billiards room, dining room and locker rooms occupied those floors. A theater for both movies and plays took up much of the 7th floor and is still there today serving as a dining room.

New Boston is rich in masonic tradition as many of our citizens are members of either Aurora Lodge or other masonic lodges throughout the area. It was great seeing many of them and their families this weekend and hope many others will take advantage of not just the masonic tour but the other outstanding locations that are featured each holiday season throughout Scioto County in the annual Tour of Lofts & Other Historic Places, sponsored by Main Street Portsmouth.

If you are interested in more information on the masonic temple building or masonry in general, contact Bill Carson at the Porsmouth Masonic Temple Building, (740) 353-2690 or visit the masonic website, www.sciotomasons.org.

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