By JIM LANGHAM • Feature Writer

PAYNE – For newly elected State Representative Tony Burkley, the chance to be elected to a position at the Ohio Statehouse is a lifetime opportunity, one that he felt had come in God’s timing.

Burkley was elected as the State Representative to the 82nd District of Ohio during the general election this past November. He will be representing the counties of Defiance, Paulding, Van Wert and parts of Auglaize.

“Life is a series of opportunities; when opportunities present themselves, you pray for discernment and the courage to act,” said Burkley. “This a very challenging time for me. There are so many things thrown at you at once, but as with anything, you learn best by doing.