08.31.2010: September is "Campus Fire Safety Month"
08.30.2010: Federal Stimulus Funds Two New Tobacco Cessation Efforts
08.30.2010: Wingfoot Lake, Ohio's Newest State Park and Wildlife Area is Now Open
08.27.2010: 2009-2010 Report Cards Highlight District, School Achievements
08.26.2010: Old Woman Creek National Estuarine Research Reserve Celebrates 30 Years
08.25.2010: Governor Orders Flags to be Lowered Friday in Honor of Senator William Saxbe
08.24.2010: Governor's Statement Regarding Death of Ohio Statesman William Saxbe
08.24.2010: Governor, State Leaders Launch Ohio Veterans Bonus Program
08.24.2010: ODOT asks Drivers to Remember Back-to-School ABC: Always Be Cautious
08.23.2010: ODH Confirms 2010's First Human Case of West Nile Virus
08.20.2010: Designate A Sober Driver - Cops Are Cracking Down
08.20.2010: Raccoon-Rabies Vaccination Baiting Slated for August 24 to September 24
08.18.2010: Department of Aging Launches Grandparents Day Photo Project on Facebook
08.16.2010: Plan a Picnic at Ohio's Newest State Park in Portage County
08.16.2010: Ohioans: Know Your Credit Card Rights
08.13.2010: Ohio State Parks Boat Dock Lottery Deadline is August 31
08.13.2010: Sweepstakes Scams Plague Ohio
08.12.2010: HEAP Summer Crisis Program Wraps Up End of August
08.11.2010: Ohio Receives Additional $148 Million in Foreclosure Prevention Assistance
08.11.2010: 2010-11 Ohio Fall/Winter Calendar of Events Now Available
08.09.2010: Fifty Ohio Students Recognized in Annual State Severe Weather Awareness Poster Contest
08.06.2010: Governor Strickland Announces Appointments
08.06.2010: Governor Strickland Issues Executive Order Prohibiting Use of Public Funds for Outsourcing
08.06.2010: Ohio Business Expo Set for August 20 at State Fairgrounds
08.05.2010: Governor Strickland Announces SBA Disaster Declaration, State Assistance Allocations for Northwest Ohio
08.04.2010: Ohio Hardest-Hit Fund Plan Approved by U.S. Department of Treasury
08.04.2010: Vehicle Auction Features Snow Plows
08.02.2010: Governor Strickland Announces 2010 Ohio Women's Hall of Fame Inductees
08.02.2010: New Ohio Income Tax Tables Will Save Taxpayers $25 Million
Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland has declared September as Campus Fire Safety Month in Ohio in a proclamation announced today. Governor Strickland, Commerce Director Kimberly Zurz and Interim State Fire Marshal Donald Cooper are encouraging Ohio's college students to understand the importance of fire safety and prevention as they return to school.
"Ohio's college students need to be aware that fire can strike anywhere at any time and they must be prepared," said Cooper. "Practicing fire safety at all times, whether in dormitories, Greek housing or off-campus housing, can mean the difference between life and death. A fire safety and prevention program is essential for students, as well as off-campus organizations which provide housing." Cooper added that college is often the first time many students are responsible for all aspects of their daily living, and that includes their own personal safety.
"We are pleased that Campus Fire Safety Month in recognized in Ohio to raise awareness of the importance of keeping our college students informed and safe from the devastating effects of fire," said Paul D. Martin, president of The Center for Campus Fire Safety, the nation's leading non-profit organization devoted to campus fire safety issues.
According to Campus Firewatch, there have been 140 campus-related fire fatalities nationwide since January, 2000. This includes residence hall, off-campus and Greek student housing. According to the organization, over 85 percent of the campus-related fire fatalities have occurred in off-campus housing. Common factors in a number of these fires include missing or disabled smoke alarms, careless disposal of smoking materials and impaired judgment from alcohol consumption.
The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal encourages students to:
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Columbus, Ohio – As a result of approximately $1 million in federal stimulus funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) Communities Putting Prevention to Work grant, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is funding a media campaign and an online cessation tool to raise awareness and assist tobacco users in the critical effort to stop tobacco use.
The multi-media Dear Me: Nobody Can Make Me Quit but Me campaign was just launched by ODH and is airing on radio stations in Cincinnati, Columbus, Cleveland, and Youngstown. Other elements of the campaign include street kiosks, convenience store ads and bus signs; television ads will air later this fall. Dear Me features real people telling their stories of their desire to quit tobacco use.
"Quitting is hard," ODH director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D. said. "It might be the hardest thing you ever do, but the improvements in your health start immediately and will be well worth the effort. It takes on average five to seven attempts to quit for good. This campaign shares the thoughts and struggles of real smokers and reminds Ohioans that when they are ready to quit, help is available."
Ohioans who are willing to tell their story about quitting are urged to submit their own Dear Me letters to tobaccoprevention@odh.ohio.gov
In addition to the free Ohio Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-Quit-Now (1-800-784-8669), the state now offers a free online cessation program, Quitlogix, at Ohio.Quitlogix.org. Quitlogix enables online users to access information and quitting support after registering. Quitlogix users who want to take advantage of two weeks of free nicotine patches still need to go through a phone counselor at the Ohio Tobacco Quit line. A combination of the online and telephonic counseling services is available to all Ohioans
Approximately 2 million (20.3 percent) of Ohio adults age 18 and older currently smoke - 21.2 percent of men and 19.5 percent of women. The smoking rate among Ohio African-Americans is 22.0 percent, and among whites the rate is 20.1 percent.
The Ohio Tobacco Quitline and Quitlogix are provided free to all Ohioans who need the services and are funded by the Master Tobacco Settlement funds in addition to ARRA funds. For more information about quitting tobacco, visit www.healthyohioprogram.org.
* Data are from the 2009 Ohio Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
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Columbus, Ohio – Beginning today, Wingfoot Lake State Park and Wildlife Area in Portage County will be open to the public daily, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
Wingfoot Lake's 444 acres offer visitors an opportunity for fishing with a valid Ohio fishing license and boating (limited to 10 HP). Periodic archery programs, controlled waterfowl hunting and trapping will be offered this fall at the wildlife area.
Additionally, the day-use facility features a host of recreational facilities including: mini golf, disc golf, paved walking paths, playgrounds, baseball fields, tennis and basketball courts, sand volleyball courts, bocce ball and badminton courts and horseshoes.
Boat rentals will be available, and six large shelterhouses will be available by reservation. There are no overnight facilities or camping available.
Reservations for the shelterhouses can be made up to one year in advance by calling 866-OHIOPARKS (866-644-6727) or on-line at www.ohiostateparks.org. General information about Wingfoot Lake is also available at www.ohiostateparks.org, and information regarding fishing, hunting and trapping can be found at www.wildohio.com .
Wingfoot Lake State Park and Wildlife Area is located off Waterloo Road near the community of Suffield in Portage County.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.
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Columbus, Ohio – Districts and schools throughout the state continue to make gains in student achievement as highlighted by the 2009-2010 report cards released today by the Ohio Department of Education (ODE).
"Educators, students, parents and communities should be proud of the promising academic gains we continue to see in Ohio schools," said Deborah S. Delisle, superintendent of public instruction. "More districts have earned a rating of Effective or higher on the 2009-2010 report cards, and no additional districts were ranked in Academic Emergency. I thank all of Ohio's educators for advocating tirelessly for students, encouraging them to take rigorous coursework and providing them with the supports they need to be successful in postsecondary education, careers and citizenship."
Read the Full Press Release
View Report Cards for Ohio Schools and Districts
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Huron, Ohio – To kick off its 30th anniversary as a coastal wetland research laboratory and outdoor classroom for scientists and community members alike, the Ohio Division of Wildlife's Old Woman Creek National Estuarine Research Reserve is offering a variety of free, family-friendly events on Saturday, September 4.
Events including butterfly tagging, guided hikes, facility tours and research demonstrations will begin at the top of each hour from 10 a.m. through 3 p.m. In addition to these programs, the visitor center will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring historical displays, activities and a time capsule. Guests ages 10 and older will have the opportunity the explore Old Woman Creek estuary by canoe on a first come, first served basis at 2 p.m.
Events will take place at the Old Woman Creek visitor center located 1 mile west of SR 61 at 2514 Cleveland Road East. For more information regarding the 30th anniversary open house, please visit www.oldwomancreek.org or call the visitor center at (419) 433-4601.
Estuaries like Old Woman Creek protect Lake Erie by removing pollutants from streams and rivers. Estuaries also benefit coastal communities by acting as a buffer against floods and erosion.
The environmental and economic importance of estuaries is undeniable, as these ecosystems provide habitat for wildlife as well as a nursery for important Lake Erie sport fish. Recreational fishing in Lake Erie contributes over $300 million to our state's economy annually. Bird and other wildlife watchers spend nearly one billion dollars statewide each year. To learn more about Old Woman Creek Reserve and estuaries visit www.oldwomancreek.org and www.estuaries.gov.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today issued the following proclamation lowering flags to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Friday, August 27th in memory of former U.S. Senator, U.S. Attorney General and Ohio Speaker of the House William B. Saxbe.
In honor of the life and service of William B. Saxbe I hereby proclaim, by the authority vested in me as Governor of the State of Ohio by the Ohio Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, that the flags of the United States of America and the State of Ohio shall be flown at half-staff upon all public buildings and grounds throughout the State of Ohio from sunrise to sunset on Friday, August 27th, 2010.
On This 25th Day of August, 2010,
Ted Strickland
Governor
Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today issued the following statement regarding former U.S. Senator, U.S. Attorney General and Ohio Speaker of the House William B. Saxbe, who died today at 94.
"Though his life and public service transcended so much of our state and nation's history, Senator William Saxbe never lost his connection to ordinary Ohioans. And Ohioans loved him for that. It wasn't his position of power, but his gift for speaking truth to power, that made Senator Saxbe such an extraordinary public servant. Frances and I offer our condolences to his family, and we join all Ohioans in celebrating his life and legacy."
Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland, Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray, Ohio Treasurer Kevin Boyce and Ohio Department of Veterans Services Director Bill Hartnett today launched the Ohio Veterans Bonus program in Columbus.
An estimated 200,000 Ohio residents are eligible for the Ohio Veterans Bonus.
"In November, the voters of Ohio resoundingly supported Issue 1," Strickland said. "Ohioans wanted to extend a small measure of our thanks and offer a tangible sign of our profound respect for our veterans of recent conflicts and their survivors. Today we are asking all eligible veterans and their survivors to apply for this special payment from the state."
"Of course no payment is adequate reward for the sacrifices made on our behalf," Strickland added. "But these checks will help make a mortgage payment, or put food on the table, or start a savings account. And what's more, these payments will say something clearly and directly to our veterans: thank you."
All Ohio veterans could be eligible for a bonus if they served on active duty with U.S. armed forces, including the Ohio National Guard, anywhere in the world during specified periods of time. The active duty must be for purposes other than training. Applicants must have been legal residents of Ohio when they went on active duty and also must be Ohio residents when they apply for a bonus.
"The process of providing these bonuses began a few years ago in Iraq, when an Ohioan serving as an Army captain there wrote to my office on behalf of the servicemen and women in his unit," said Cordray. "Working together, Ohioans responded in a big way, bringing these bonuses to fruition. It truly is a story of democracy at its finest. My office will continue to work to support our Veterans through the application process, to make it as simple as possible."
The estimated processing time for bonus applications is approximately eight weeks, depending on the volume of applications initially received.
To apply for the bonus, applicants should go to veteransbonus.ohio.gov, and complete the online application. Ohio's public libraries are prepared to assist with the online application if applicants do not have Internet access. In addition, staff at Ohio's County Veterans Service Offices is available to assist in the application process.
Ohio Department of Veterans Services Director Bill Hartnett said eligible veterans must satisfy three basic requirements.
"We want to know about residency, geography and time," Hartnett said. "The Veterans must be Ohio residents now and must have been an Ohio resident when they were called to active duty. Next, we have to know where they served and finally we have to know when they served."
Eligible veterans may receive $100 for each month of active duty service in the following locations during these specified dates:
The maximum benefit for service in those three areas is $1,000.
Eligible veterans serving on active duty (except active duty for training) anywhere else in the world during the specified dates, may receive $50 a month up to a maximum bonus of $500. An eligible veteran may combine their service bonuses for a maximum payment of $1,500.
To be eligible for a bonus:
Veterans' applications are not complete until they are printed, signed and mailed to: Ohio Veterans Bonus, P.O. Box 373 Sandusky, Ohio 44871. The final application cannot be submitted on the Internet because the signed application must be notarized or acknowledged.
Public notaries can notarize the applicant's signature or any of Ohio's 88 county common pleas court clerks are prepared to "acknowledge" the signature. In addition, the assistant attorneys general in the Ohio Attorney General's regional offices in Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Youngstown and Toledo will notarize the applicant's signature free of cost. A list of free notaries can be found at: www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov/VeteransBonus.
There also are other bonuses available to eligible veterans or the families of deceased veterans. For these eligibility details and specifications, please visit: veteransbonus.ohio.gov/odvs_web/Eligibility_Requirements.aspx
"Ohio has a long history of rewarding military service that stretches back to World War I," said Treasurer Boyce. "Although we can never repay those who risked their lives and left their families, this gesture speaks volumes about the great respect our State has for its veterans. I am proud to stand with Ohioans to honor the sacrifices of so many servicemen and women."
Applicants with specific questions can call 1 -877-OHIO-VET or go online at: veteransbonus.ohio.gov.
The Ohio Veterans Bonus is not financed with taxes. Last year, Ohio voters approved a constitutional amendment allowing the state to sell $200 million worth of bonds to provide a special payment from the Ohio Honors Veterans Fund to servicemen and women.
Columbus, Ohio – With a new statewide safety analysis showing an average of 10 crashes involving buses each school day, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is asking drivers to remember ABC - Always Be Cautious - during this back-to-school season.
With many school districts across the state resuming classes this week, school buses and parents taking driving their children to school are also returning to Ohio's roadways.
A recent analysis by ODOT's safety experts revealed 1,856 crashes involving school buses last year. With most schools in session 182 days, that averages roughly 10 crashes involving a bus each school day.
During the 2009-2010 school year, bus-related crashes led to 760 injuries and three fatalities.
There were also an equally alarming number of non-bus crashes in designated school zones, with 283 total crashes across the state. Those accidents - often involving cars running into each other or fixed objects - resulted in 103 injuries.
ODOT's safety analysis shows that driver inattention - including following too close, failure to control, and failure to yield - is the leading cause of these crashes. That's why ODOT will be emphasizing a simple back-to-school reminder of "ABC - Always Be Cautious" during the final weeks of August.
The basic back-to-school safety tips for drivers include:
Just as school buses return to roadways this fall, so do teen drivers. Crashes among teen drivers in Ohio spike between August and January as younger, less-experienced drivers join in busy rush-hour traffic each morning and afternoon. In each of the past five years, October has seen the most accidents involving teen drivers.
For children who walk and bike to school, ODOT has invested more than $21 million in its Safe Routes to School program. The federal funding is being used in communities across the state to construct safer school crossing signals and sidewalks, provide new educational materials, add police enforcement in school zones, and create school travel plans to encourage more students to consider walking and biking.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio's first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in 2010 was confirmed today by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), which also reported a sharp increase in the number of WNV-positive mosquitoes.
The patient, a 74-year-old male from Putnam County, is currently recovering. Meanwhile, the number of WNV-positive mosquito pools in the State of Ohio increased from 4 to 98, in the past month.
Because humans can only get WNV from the bite of an infected mosquito, ODH reminds Ohioans to take steps to help prevent infection.
"We see human cases of West Nile virus each year in Ohio," said ODH Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D. "You can protect yourself and your loved ones from West Nile by taking simple protective steps such as using insect repellent and eliminating water — holding containers from your property."
To avoid possible infection from mosquito bites: If you are outdoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active, be sure to wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, shoes and socks. Light colors are least attractive to mosquitoes. Use insect repellent and follow the label directions.
To eliminate mosquito breeding sites near your home: Remove all discarded tires and other water-holding containers, such as tin cans and unused flower pots, from your property. Eliminate standing water from your property. Make sure all roof gutters are clean and properly draining. Clean and chlorinate pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty when not in use and drain water from pool covers. Change water in bird baths weekly.
Ohio has recorded human cases of WNV each year since 2002 when there were 441 cases. There were 108 in 2003, 12 in 2004, 61 in 2005, 48 in 2006, 23 in 2007, 15 in 2008 and 2 in 2009.
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Columbus, Ohio – The message is clear: if you drive impaired, you will be caught and arrested. This year, 952 Ohio law enforcement agencies joined thousands of other law enforcement agencies and highway safety partners throughout the nation to take part in the Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest Crackdown on impaired driving. The enforcement blitz began today and will last through Labor Day.
During the enforcement period, law enforcement partners have planned more than 7,000 enforcement hours, dozens of checkpoints and more than 1,300 hours of saturation patrols around the state.
"The seriousness of saving lives should not be taken lightly," said Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Thomas J. Stickrath. "Today, our safety partners came together to announce initiatives and partnerships aimed at reducing deaths and to remind everyone that cops are cracking down - if you are over the limit, you will be under arrest."
Leaders of the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police, Buckeye State Sheriffs' Association, Ohio State Highway Patrol, the Ohio Traffic Safety Office and the Ohio Department of Public Safety also came together and announced their "Joining Forces to Save Lives" partnership, which addresses all aspects of safety on our roads.
An Ohio OVI Checkpoint Weekend also kicked off today. Law enforcement from all jurisdictions have joined together to hold more than 30 checkpoints all over the state between August 20 and 22. The checkpoints are planned for those areas with the highest numbers of alcohol-related deaths, injuries and arrests. They are designed to not only deter impaired driving, but to proactively remove these dangerous drivers from our roadways.
In 2009, 390 people died in alcohol-related crashes on Ohio's roads (down from 449 in 2008 and 473 in 2007). Alcohol-impaired drivers were involved in 38.16 percent of all fatalities. Of these fatalities, there were 65 alcohol-impaired motorcycle drivers involved in fatal crashes last year.
The national Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest. Crackdown is a program organized by the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that focuses on combining high-visibility enforcement with heightened public awareness through advertising and publicity. It is locally administered by the Ohio Department of Public Safety's Ohio Traffic Safety Office, which funds a majority of the enforcement hours through federal funds from NHTSA.
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Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio departments of Health (ODH) and Natural Resources (ODNR), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services program and local health departments (LHDs) will begin fall oral rabies vaccination (ORV) operations Tuesday, August 24 in 14 northeast and eastern Ohio counties.
"This local, state and federal partnership is an example of our continued efforts to protect and improve the health of all Ohioans," said ODH Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D. "You can help us prevent the spread of the raccoon rabies variant by avoiding the baits and working with your veterinarian to vaccinate your pets."
As in past years, vaccine-bait distribution will take place in all of Ashtabula, Columbiana, Geauga, Jefferson, Lake, Mahoning and Trumbull counties and parts of Belmont, Carroll, Cuyahoga, Harrison, Monroe, Portage, and Summit counties. Baits will be distributed by various methods in each county, including fixed-wing aircraft, helicopter and LHD staff in vehicles.
Residents in the areas to be baited should be aware of low-flying aircraft and should keep children and pets away from the baits.
Rabies is a viral disease that affects mammals and people. It is almost always fatal. Since the mid-1970s, a rabies variant associated with raccoons spread rapidly through the eastern United States. Rabies vaccine baiting operations are intended to create an immune barrier to prevent the spread of raccoon-rabies variant (RRV) into the rest of the state. These regular rabies vaccination efforts began in 1997 and have been successful in suppressing rabies in affected areas and protecting the rest of the state. As of July 30, 2010, two raccoons and one skunk have been confirmed RRV positive from northeastern Ohio, down from four rabid animals (three from Lake County and one from Columbiana County) during 2009.
Weather permitting, baiting will begin Tuesday, August 24 and will cover 3,736 square miles of the state's northeastern and eastern border. Aerial distribution should be complete within 10 days; ground baiting may continue beyond September 24 depending on weather.
Two types of baits will be used. Airplanes will drop a small plastic sachet, about the size of a ketchup packet, coated in fishmeal. In urban areas, the vaccine will be inside a hard, brown, 2-x-2-inch fishmeal block that will be distributed by vehicles staffed by LHD and other local agency volunteers. Most of the 772,868 baits will be distributed by air, with the use of specially equipped white Beechcraft King Air planes from Dynamic Aviation and a helicopter from the ODNR.
Residents should avoid the baits and keep pets confined during the baiting period. Dogs in particular are attracted to the baits and will occasionally eat them. The baits are not harmful to pets. Please keep the following information in mind:
The rabies virus is found in the saliva of affected animals, most often raccoons, skunks and bats, and is spread by a bite or scratch. Bats, raccoons and skunks pose the greatest risk of rabies in Ohio. To protect your family against this still-deadly disease:
Ohio's partners in the multistate baiting are Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia, in what is known as the Appalachian Ridge ORV program. The seven-state effort will involve distribution of about 5 million baits and cover more than 26,000 square miles. ODH has participated in the program since 1997 and almost 13 million baits have been distributed in Ohio over that time.
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Columbus, Ohio – Grandparents Day is September 12, 2010, and to celebrate, the Ohio Department of Aging is asking Ohioans to submit photos of grandparents and grandchildren working, learning and serving together via the agency's page on Facebook.
"Each day, our state and communities benefit from the diverse ways five or more distinct generations interact at work, at play and through service to others," said Barbara E. Riley, director of the department. "We need everyone's help to show the world how the strength of our generations makes us a great state in which to grow up and grow old."
Starting today, Ohioans can visit www.facebook.com/OhioDepartmentOfAging and post their Grandparents Day photos to the department's wall. Posting requires a free Facebook account and the photos must conform to Facebook's terms of service. Submissions will be accepted through September 12.
Individuals also may submit their photos by mail to: Ohio Department of Aging, ATTN: Communications Division, 50 W. Broad St./9th Fl., Columbus OH 43215-3363. Mailed submissions must be postmarked no later than Wednesday, September 8. Please note, we cannot return photos.
Department staff will select three top submissions, which will be featured on the agency's Web page, as well as on its page on Facebook.
Followers of the Ohio Department of Aging page on Facebook receive updates and news about the department from various sources, including the department's award-winning electronic publications. They also will be able to access other organizations that serve or provide opportunities for Ohio seniors and others. Future activities planned include additional photo contests and discussions around timely issues.
Facebook is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc.
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Columbus, Ohio – As of August 27, families and groups can enjoy the spacious picnic shelters at Wingfoot Lake State Park near Akron, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Reservations for the shelters will be taken beginning August 18 at 7 a.m.
Wingfoot Lake, Ohio's newest state park, will be open to the public on Friday, August 27, following a public dedication ceremony scheduled for Thursday, August 26. The park is ideally suited to family outings, reunions and outdoor receptions, church and civic club gatherings, scout functions, and other outdoor events.
"Our staff and volunteers have been working hard to get the park ready to welcome visitors," said John Hunter, Ohio State Parks acting chief. "There has been a great deal of public interest in Wingfoot Lake, and excitement about the shelter houses, in particular."
Six shelter houses are available by reservation. Each offers picnic tables, grills and electrical hookups, with restrooms and parking nearby. Some also offer fireplaces and have doors that may be closed in inclement weather. Capacities vary from about 50 people to groups of more than 400.
Reservations for the shelter houses can be made through the Ohio State Parks reservation call center at 866-644-6727, or on-line through the Ohio State Parks website at www.ohiostateparks.org. Click on the reservations button on the Wingfoot Lake page for information on fees and features, and to make reservations. Reservations may be made up to one year in advance.
In addition to the picnic shelters, the park will also offer paved walking paths, playgrounds, mini golf and disc golf courses, cornhole, horseshoes, paved basketball and tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, grass courts for badminton and bocce ball, and baseball diamonds. Shoreline fishing will be permitted on the 444-acre lake, and small boats, including pontoon boats and paddle craft, may be rented.
There are no overnight facilities or camping available. A state wildlife area, which offers fishing and hunting opportunities, is adjacent to the state park.
Wingfoot Lake State Park is located off Waterloo Road at 993 Goodyear Park Boulevard near the community of Suffield in Portage County.
Since the 1940s, Wingfoot Lake park served as a corporate retreat for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company employees and their families. The State of Ohio acquired the property from Goodyear in 2009 and transferred the recreational facilities to the Ohio State Park system.
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Columbus, Ohio – The Federal Reserve’s final new rule involved in the implementation of credit card changes takes effect August 22 and will protect consumers from unfair penalty and inactivity fees, Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray said today.
"Consumers have been demanding these changes for years," Cordray said. "These rule changes are a step in the right direction. Soon credit card companies will no longer be able to charge consumers excessive late fees or charge them multiple penalty fees for a single late payment."
Among several provisions, the rule:
Most of these provisions take effect August 22. This new rule is the third phase of the Federal Reserve’s implementation of the federal Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009, which was enacted in May 2009.
To learn about earlier credit card changes, visit www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov/CreditCardChanges.
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Columbus, Ohio – Boat owners wishing to rent public boat docks at several popular Ohio State Park lakes have until Tuesday, August 31 to enter lottery drawings used to select renters for available docks.
Lottery drawings will be held in September for boat docks at Alum Creek, Buck Creek, Cleveland Lakefront, Deer Creek, Delaware, Lake Milton, Paint Creek and Rocky Fork state parks. Application forms are now available through the individual park offices.
Completed forms may be submitted in person by Tuesday, August 31, or sent by certified mail/return receipt. Only one application per boat is permitted, and must be submitted by the boat owner. Lottery applicants must be able to show current proof of boat ownership or lease at the time of entry. Boats titled to dealerships are not eligible.
The drawings are held on or before the third Saturday in September. Applicants need not be present to win, and the winning lottery applicants will be notified by the park. Persons selected by the 2010 lottery are entitled to renewal privileges for up to five years. Renewals may completed in person or on-line at www.ohiostateparks.org.
Contact the individual park offices for specific details on allowable boat sizes, dock amenities and dock rental fees, as well as other application procedures. In addition to the parks conducting the lotteries, several state parks have seasonal docks available for rent on a first-come first-served basis including Buckeye Lake, Dillon, Mosquito Lake, Salt Fork and West Branch.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio has been hit by a scourge of sweepstakes scams, Attorney General Richard Cordray said today.
The fake contests are a common ploy used by con artists to swindle money or gain personal information. Since January, the Attorney General's Consumer Protection section has received approximately 900 complaints about sweepstakes or prizes, almost all of them scams.
"The number of sweepstakes scams reported in Ohio is on course to double this year," Cordray said. "Unfortunately, senior citizens are most vulnerable to these sophisticated deceptions. We are seeing tragic instances of trusting consumers, particularly seniors, falling into a trap where they wind up turning over not only their personal information but thousands of dollars. Our best defense against these scam artists is to increase awareness and community vigilance."
In Madison County, an elderly couple received a call informing them that they had won $495,000 and that to receive the award they first had to wire $750 to Las Vegas for insurance. After the couple wired more than $1,800 for the prize, their son became aware of the scam and contacted the Attorney General's office.
A Trumbull County woman received a check as an award for winning the "lottery." In order to collect the winnings, she was required to deposit the $4,800 check and wire $4,000 to Spain. The woman's daughter contacted the Attorney General's office after realizing the check was a fake.
"Many of the fake checks used in sweepstakes scams look very real," Cordray said. "If someone is enduring early stages of dementia or Alzheimer's, they likely could not detect this ploy. In fact the most outrageous aspect of most scams is that they prey on the trust that ordinary, decent people have in one another. I strongly urge family members, friends and neighbors to watch out for those who are most vulnerable to these malicious scammers."
The Attorney General's office has received 919 sweepstakes scam reports to-date in 2010; well past the 622 complaints received last year and double the 447 in 2008.
Cordray is providing the following tips to avoid sweepstakes scams:
Attorney General Cordray has joined the Ohio Departments of Insurance, Commerce and Aging to warn Ohio's seniors about sweepstakes scams and other fraud. Since June, "Seniors Fighting Fraud" workshops have been presented at more than 40 assisted living or independent living facilities throughout the state. Additional presentations are scheduled this fall. To schedule a workshop, visit www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov/ConsumerWorkshops.
If you suspect that you or someone you know has fallen victim to a scam, file a complaint with the Attorney General's office through www.SpeakOutOhio.gov or by calling (800) 282-0515, or notify local law enforcement.
To get instant updates on scams as they are identified and tracked by the Attorney General's office through various local, state and federal sources, download the Attorney General's scam widget at www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov/ScamAlertWidget.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Department of Development Director Lisa Patt-McDaniel wants to remind Ohioans who are elderly or have health problems that funding to assist eligible households with summer cooling costs through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Summer Crisis Program is available through August 31, 2010.
"With temperatures consistently in the 90s this week, I want to take this opportunity to encourage eligible families to apply for the Summer Crisis Program," Patt-McDaniel said. "The program is designed to keep our most vulnerable citizens safe and healthy during these hot summer months, and we don't want people to miss out on the help available to them."
So far this summer, 34,138 households have been approved for assistance through the Summer Crisis Program. Out of $6.4 million available, $4.9 million has been obligated to assist households with their cooling bills.
The HEAP Summer Crisis Program, administered by the Department's Community Development Division, provides assistance to low-income households with an elderly member (60 years or older), or a member of the household with documentation from a physician that cooling assistance is necessary. This includes people with breathing problems such as lung disease, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), or asthma (which the Centers for Disease Control estimates plagues more than 15 million Americans).
These households are eligible for electric bill payment assistance of up to $175. For many eligible customers, $175 will cover at least one month's electric bill. Residents are encouraged to work with their local community action agencies, job and family services, and faith-based organizations for additional assistance.
Last year, more than 42,000 Ohio families were assisted through the HEAP Summer Crisis Program. The gross income of eligible households must be at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines listed below:
1 - up to $21,660
2 - up to $29,140
3 - up to $36,620
4 - up to $44,100
5 - up to $51,580
6 - up to $59,060
7 - up to $66,540
8 - up to $74,020
For households with more than eight members, add $7,480 for each additional member. For more information, call the toll-free HEAP hotline at (800) 282-0880. The hearing impaired may dial (800) 686-1557 for assistance. For information on the HEAP Summer Crisis Program website, please visit www.energyhelp.ohio.gov. The demand for cooling assistance has been extremely high this summer, so appointments with local HEAP providers are preferred.
Also, by visiting local HEAP agencies, customers can learn about the new Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP Plus) program, which begins November 1, 2010. PIPP Plus standardizes year-round customer payments, making it easier for customers to budget and helping good-paying customers get rid of old utility debt and avoid accruing new debt.
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Columbus, Ohio – The Obama Administration today announced that the Ohio Housing Finance Agency will receive an additional $148 million through the U.S. Treasury's Hardest-Hit Fund to help Ohio homeowners prevent foreclosure.
"This additional federal funding from the Obama Administration will be a huge help to Ohio families and children in need," Governor Ted Strickland said. "The Ohio Hardest-Hit Fund plan is dedicated to keeping thousands of Ohioans in their homes and we will be able to assist far more people with the increase in funding."
Ohio is one of 17 states and the District of Columbia that will share $2 billion in new federal assistance to help homeowners. The funding is being allocated to states that have experienced sustained unemployment rates at or above the national average over the last 12 months.
The Ohio Housing Finance Agency will use the funding to help unemployed and underemployed homeowners pay their mortgage as they seek work, expanding unemployment bridge loan programs under general requirements established by the U.S. Department of Treasury. Ohio's Hardest-Hit Fund proposal was approved by Treasury on August 4 and includes four program options for struggling homeowners including: Rescue Payment Assistance, Partial Mortgage Payment Assistance, Modification Assistance with Principal Reduction and Transitional Assistance.
Ohio received the fourth-largest allocation of $148 million, all of which must be used for the Partial Mortgage Payment Assistance program to provide temporary assistance for unemployed homeowners while they seek re-employment or train for a new job. Ohio was previously allocated $172 million through HHF on March 29, for a total of $320 million in funding.
The Ohio Housing Finance Agency will continue working with the Save the Dream Ohio partners and organizations throughout the state to administer the federal funds. Save the Dream Ohio, introduced in March 2008, is a unique, multi-agency program. It works with 37 HUD-certified housing counseling agencies as well as legal aid societies and pro-bono associations to help Ohioans facing foreclosure receive the help they need.
"OHFA and Save the Dream Ohio partners have worked very hard to reach homeowners who are struggling to stay in their homes. We are pleased that Treasury recognized the potential of Ohio's plan to help unemployed and underemployed borrowers by awarding us an additional $148 million in funding," said Kimberly Zurz, Director of the Ohio Department of Commerce and the OHFA Board Chairperson. "These directed resources will make a significant impact across the state and help thousands of people who desperately need assistance while they are looking for jobs."
Additional states to receive funding include: Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina and Tennessee. The program will provide additional funds to nine of the 10 HFAs already participating in the Hardest-Hit Fund including: California, Florida, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island and South Carolina.
"Through OHFA's partial mortgage loan payment program, this funding will provide stability to struggling borrowers and to Ohio's housing market," said OHFA Executive Director Doug Garver. "Having additional resources will provide even more options for families facing the devastation of foreclosure."
The Ohio Hardest-Hit Fund plan will launch September 27, 2010 but borrowers who are in need of immediate assistance should visit the Save the Dream Ohio website at www.savethedream.ohio.gov or call the toll-free hotline at 888-404-4674.
Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Tourism Division today unveiled the 2010-11 Fall/Winter Ohio Calendar of Events. The 52-page, full-color Fall/Winter Ohio Calendar of Events provides travelers with dates, descriptions and contact information for fun and engaging festivals and events found throughout Ohio from September 2010 through February 2011.
"Special events consistently show up in our research as a primary reason for people traveling to and within Ohio," said State Tourism Director Amir Eylon. "Ohio's tourism industry takes full advantage of our seasons and agricultural strengths to create outstanding fall and winter tourism experiences including apple butter stirring; leaf peeping tours; fall festivals; holiday light displays; North Pole Express train excursion; and more."
The semi-annual Ohio Calendar of Events, in tandem with the continuously updated event listings on DiscoverOhio.com offers travelers a valuable travel planning resource including:
"There is just no better place than Ohio to take in a festival or art event or get out and enjoy some hiking or biking in our state parks all against a backdrop of autumn color or the pristine white of winter's snow," Eylon said.
Free Ohio Travel Planners and Ohio Calendars of Events can be ordered anytime day or night from DiscoverOhio.com or Ohio's toll-free tourism hotline, 1-800-BUCKEYE. Trained travel counselors are available to assist callers from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. during the week and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the weekends. The Fall/Winter Ohio Calendar of Events also may be viewed online.
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Columbus, Ohio – Miles Dresback, a fifth grader in Pickaway County during the 2009-2010 school year was recognized Saturday at the Ohio State Fair as the overall state winner in a statewide poster contest. Miles' poster artistically illustrated flood safety and preparedness information such as listen to a weather radio for flood updates and don't drive or walk through high water.
The Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness chose Miles' poster as "the most informative, accurate and creative out of the many posters received during its annual Severe Weather Awareness Poster Contest. Miles is the fourth sibling of the Dresbach family to be awarded as state or regional winner in the poster contest: Andrew Dresbach - 2008; Elizabeth Dresbach - 2004; and Hugh Dresbach - 2000.
As the overall state winner, Miles received a variety of awards and prizes from the committee and its partners, to include two $100 savings bonds, a letter of congratulations from Governor Ted Strickland, a plaque from the National Weather Service, a NOAA Weather Radio, a smoke detector, a personal-sized rain gauge, a personalized trophy, and later in the fall, his school will receive an engraved "traveling" trophy to showcase for the remainder of the school year. In an effort to promote severe weather preparedness, the committee will feature Miles' poster throughout the year.
Seven students, one from first through sixth grades and individualized instruction classes, were announced as state-level winners and received prizes and awards to include $50 savings bonds, plaques, personal-sized rain gauges, smoke detectors and a letter of congratulations from Gov. Strickland. They are: 1st Grader Joel Grimm of Madison County; 2nd Grader Regan Draeger of Sandusky County; 3rd Grader Chloe Reichelderfer of Pickaway County; 4th Grader Grace Hart of Summit County; 5th Grader Maegan Chittenden of Fulton County; 5th Grader Annabelle Comunale of Summit County; and 6th Grader Christopher Mark of Summit County.
This year, a total of 50 students from 26 Ohio counties were honored as regional winners. The students represented grades 1-6 from 33 schools. As regional winners, every student artist received a certificate from the National Weather Service and sling backpacks full of prizes from the offices and their partners that make up the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness.
For 32 years, the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness has conducted its annual poster contest. Since its inception, students have designed informative posters on severe weather safety and preparedness. The efforts of these students have helped the committee meet its overall goal — to educate Ohioans about the actions they can take to protect themselves and others before, during and after severe weather occurs.
View the 2010 Regional Winners. (PDF)
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today announced appointments to several state boards and commissions.
The University of Akron Board of Trustees sets the tuition and fees of the university, hires and fixes the compensation of the school's employees and does all that is necessary to ensure the successful operation of the university.
Ralph Palmisano, of Medina, has served as a partner for the law firm of Leiby, Hanna, Rasnick, Towne, Evanchan, Palmisano & Hobson since 2009. He previously served as a partner at the law firm of Evanchan & Palmisano from 1989-2009. Palmisano also serves as a real estate developer for Fishcreek Plaza and as a board member for the Downtown Akron Partnership. He received a bachelor's degree from the University of Akron in 1970 and a law degree from the Cleveland Marshall College of Law in 1973.
The University of Toledo Board of Trustees sets the tuition and fees of the university, hires and fixes the compensation of the school's employees and does all that is necessary to ensure the successful operation of the university.
Sharon Speyer, of Toledo, currently serves as the regional president of Huntington National Bank and as a trustee and active member of the UT Alumni Association. Speyer previously served as the regional president of Sky Bank . Her community involvement includes Central City Ministries, COSI, the St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center Foundation, Toledo Jewish Community Foundation and the Toledo Symphony. Speyer received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1981 and a law degree from the University of Toledo in 1985.
The Clark State Community College Board of Trustees holds the responsibility to hire, fix compensation of, and remove employees of the college as deemed necessary. It does all else necessary to ensure the successful and continuous operation of Clark State Community College.
Margaret Noonan, of Springfield, served as the office manager for the Robinson Insulation Company for 14 years before retiring in 2008. She previously served as the office manager for the Windy Knoll Farm from 1987-1993 and as an adjunct faculty member for the Clark State Community College from 1976-1987. Noonan received a bachelor's degree from Fordham University in 1968.
The Ohio Elections Commission hears, through "probable cause panels,." certain violations of the Elections Law at expedited hearings.
Degee Wilhelm, of Bexley, has been appointed to a Democratic seat on the Ohio Elections Commission. served as a self-employed business and public policy consultant since 2009. She previously served as the director of Ohio surrogate scheduling for Obama for America. Wilhem also served as an attorney for the firm of Ungaretti & Harris from 2001-2006 and as an assistant to the Clinton/Gore 1992 Campaign for President. She has been a volunteer for Bexley City Schools since 2005. Wilhem received a bachelor's degree from Baylor University in 1988 and a law degree from the Chicago-Kent College of Law in 2002.
The Ohio Historic Site Preservation Advisory Board assists the Ohio Historical Society in the society's site preservation program, suggests legislation necessary to the society's preservation program including location, designation, restoration, preservation, and maintenance of historic and archaeological sites and artifacts. The advisory board advises the Ohio Historical Society on the state historic preservation plan as well as encourages the designation of suitable sites on the National Register of Historic Places.
Albert Blackwood, of Perrysburg, has served as the president of Blackwood Construction Services since 1999. He previously served as an engineering manager for NHK/ New Mather Metals from 1989-1999. Blackwood also serves as an advisory board member for the National Historic Trust and as a member of Heritage Ohio. He received a bachelor's degree from Michigan State University.
The Power Siting Board compiles and publishes the general locations of power plant sites and the general locations of transmission line routes within its jurisdiction.
Ali Keyhani, of Columbus, has served as a professor of electrical engineering at the Ohio State University since 1990. He previously served as an associate and assistant professor at the Ohio State University from 1981-1990. He is the past chairman of Electric Machinery Committee of IEEE Power Engineering Society. Keyhani also serves as the director of the Mechatronics Green Energy Systems Laboratory at the Ohio State University. He received a bachelor's degree from Youngstown State University, a master's degree from the Ohio State University and a doctorate from Purdue University.
The Ohio Venture Capital Authority is charged with establishing the terms and conditions of an investment policy governing the deployment of the Ohio Venture Capital Fund Program, which aims to increase private investment capital for Ohio companies in the early stages of business development.
Brad Whitehead, of Cleveland, currently serves as the president of the Fund for Our Economic Future. He previously served as a director at the international management consulting firm of McKinsey and Company for 20 years. He received a bachelor's degree and a master's degree from Harvard College.
The Emergency Response Commission aims to improve statewide preparedness and response to emergencies and promote public awareness of potential hazards. The commission consists of representatives from professional and volunteer firefighters, county emergency and local emergency response agencies, environmental advocacy groups, and petroleum refiners or chemical manufacturers.
Brian Galligher, of Delaware, has served as the director of the Delaware County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management since 2006. He previously served as a field liaison for the State of Ohio Emergency Management Agency from 2001-2006 and as a radiological analyst from 2001-2003. Galligher received a bachelor's degree from Tri-State University in 2001 and a master's degree from Central Michigan University in 2005.
The Ohio Optical Dispensers Board handles the processing of licensure applications for dispensing opticians, schedules and administers qualifying examinations for licensure, revokes or suspends licenses, and issues licenses to qualified individuals.
Brian Miller, of Toledo, currently serves as the owner of the Miller Artificial Eye Laboratory. He volunteers with the Sight Center and Kiwanis Club of Toledo. Miller has also served as a member of the Opticians Association of Ohio since 1995.
The Board of Building Standards formulates and adopts standards and regulations governing the erection, construction, repair, alteration and maintenance of all classes of buildings.
Carl Schultz, of Columbus, currently serves as the vice president for Advanced Engineering Consultants. He has over 20 years of experience designing mechanical systems for institutional and commercial facilities and is a registered professional engineer in 13 states. Schultz is a member of the American Society of Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning Engineers, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying. He received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1988.
The Dentist Loan Repayment Advisory Board is required to determine the amounts that will be paid as loan repayments on behalf of the participants in the Dentist Loan Repayment Program.
Carole Kelley, of Hilliard, has served as the owner and general dentist for the Hilliard Dental Associates since 2007. She previously served as an associate dentist at the Smiley Dental Group from 1993-2004. Kelley is a member of the American and Ohio Dental Associations. She also served as the president of the Columbus Dental Society in 2009. Kelley received a bachelor's degree and a doctorate from the Ohio State University in 1969 and 1980, respectively.
The War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission aims to honor Ohioans who served in the War of 1812 and raise awareness of Ohio's role in the conflict.
Carrie Sowden, of Vermilion, has served as the archaeological director of the Great Lakes Historical Society since 2004. She previously served as an assistant at the conservation research laboratory at Texas A&M. Sowden also serves as a member of the War of 1812 Shipwrecks Project. She received a bachelor's degree from Emory University in 1997 and a master's degree from Texas A&M University in 2006.
Louis Schultz, of Galena, served as a history teacher and chairman of the history department at the Columbus Academy from 1978-2008 before retiring. Since retiring, he helps organize student trips to Washington, D.C. and Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. He received bachelor's degrees from Allegheny College and the Ohio State University in 1966 and 1973, respectively.
George Ironstrack, of Oxford, has served as the assistant director and education coordinator for the Myaamia Project at Miami University since 2008. He also serves as a member of the board of directors for the Myaamia Heritage Museum. Ironstrack previously served as a graduate assistant for American History at Miami University. He received a bachelor's degree from the University of Illinois and a master's degree from Miami University.
Craig Brown, of Salem, has served as the recorder for Columbiana County since 2005. He previously served as a prevention specialist for the Family Recovery Center and as an aide to U.S. Congressman Zack Space. Brown also serves as a member of the Ohio Electronic Records Commission. He received a bachelor's degree from Ohio Dominican University and a master's degree from the University of Akron.
Joseph Zerbey, of Sylvania, has served as the president and CEO of the Toledo Blade since 2004. He previously served as the president of the Newspaper Agency Corporation from 2000-2004 and as the president of the York Newspaper Company from 1994-2000. Zerbey also serves as a board member of the Ohio Newspaper Association and the Toledo Zoo Foundation. He served in the U.S. Army from 1966-1969. Zerbey received a bachelor's degree from Syracuse University in 1965.
The Third Frontier Commission coordinates and administers science and technology programs to promote the welfare of the people of the state and to maximize economic growth through expansion of the state's high technology research and development capabilities and product and process innovation and commercialization.
Gary Lindgren, of Cincinnati, has served as the executive director of the Cincinnati Business Committee since 2007. He previously served as the chief of staff for U.S. Representative Steve Chabot and in a similar capacity for the House Small Business Committee. Lindgren currently serves on a number of boards and committees that include the Cincinnati Museum Center, Downtown Cincinnati Incorporated and the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber. He received a bachelor's degree from Indiana University.
The Recycling and Litter Prevention Council establishes criteria by which to certify agencies of the state, municipal corporations, counties, and townships as eligible to receive grants for recycling and litter prevention.
Dawn Spurlock, of Toledo, has served as a technical services manager for Heritage Environmental Services since 2004. She previously served as a field chemist for Heritage Environmental Services from 1994-1997. Spurlock also served as the president of the Association of Ohio Recyclers in 2004. She received a bachelor's degree from Bowling Green State University in 1991.
Theresa Willis, of Columbus, has been appointed as the labor representative on the Recycling and Litter Prevention Council. served as the director of community services and a comptroller for the Ohio AFL-CIO since 2006. She previously served as the executive assistant for the Ohio AFL-CIO from 2000-2006. Willis also served as an administrative assistant for the Ohio Department of Insurance from 1983-1991.
Timothy Clarke, of Cincinnati, currently serves as the CEO of the Netherland Rubber Company. He previously served as the executive vice president of the Netherland Rubber Company. Clarke also serves as the vice president of the Ohio Industrial Wholesale Distributors and previously served as a member of the Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce. He received an honorary doctoral degree from the University of Cincinnati in 2005.
The Housing Trust Fund Advisory Committee is charged with assisting the Ohio Department of Development and the Housing Finance Agency in identifying the housing needs and priorities of the state. The committee also reports on how programs, such as the Low-and-Moderate Income Housing Trust Fund, can more effectively benefit low- and moderate-income individuals and families. The committee advises the director of the Department of Development as to when and how money within the Housing Trust Fund should be allocated.
Jerry Katz, of Worthington, served as a banking professional for Huntington National Bank for 31 years before retiring in 2000. He also served as a professor of personal finance and banking courses at Columbus State Community College. Katz serves as the chairman of the Better Business Bureau of Central Ohio. He received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1977.
Laura Swanson, of Columbus, has served as the executive director of the Columbus Apartment Association since 2009. She began her career with the Columbus Apartment Association in 1997 as an account manager and later was appointed as the associate director. Swanson also serves as the executive director of two housing trade associations managed by the Columbus Apartment Association, the Ohio Housing Council and the Midwest Affordable Housing Management Association. She received a bachelor's degree from the University of Dayton.
The Ohio Housing Finance Agency offers affordable housing opportunities for Ohioans from rental assistance to homeownership. OHFA provides access to financial resources for the development and management of affordable, safe and sanitary housing. The agency's programs serve first-time homebuyers, renters, senior citizens and other populations with special needs who otherwise might not be able to afford quality housing.
Mark Milligan, of Granville, has served as the owner of Passage Capital and Passage Management since 1998. He also serves as a member of the compensation committee for First Federal Savings and is a founding member of the Arlington Bank. Milligan previously served as the executive vice president of the State Savings Bank from 1975-1998. He received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1972.
The State Board of Pharmacy, provides for the examining and licensing of pharmacists. It may set requirements that must be met before an applicant can be registered and may revoke licenses when deemed necessary.
Lori Woodson, of Richmond Heights, currently serves as a chief pharmacist for Kaiser Permanente. She previously served as a pharmaceutical care manager for the Cleveland Clinic Foundation and as the director of pharmacy for the Northeast Ohio Neighborhood Health Services. Woodson also serves as a member of the National Pharmaceutical Association and as a member of the advisory committee on diversity for the College of Pharmacy at the Ohio State University. She received a bachelor's degree from the University of Toledo, a master's degree from Cleveland State University and a doctorate from the Ohio State University.
Michael Mone, of Powell, has served as the vice president of anti-diversion and a senior regulatory counsel for Cardinal Health since 2007. He previously served as the director of regulatory compliance for Medicine Shoppe International. Mone also serves as a member of the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. He received a bachelor's degree and a law degree from the University of Florida in 1981 and 1985, respectively.
The Clean Ohio Council is charged with reviewing and approving applications and entering into an agreement with the applicant to award a grant or make a loan for the applicant's brownfield cleanup project.
Rhonda Border-Boose, of Canal Winchester, has served as the Midwest regional director of the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy since 2001. She previously served as a marketing manager for Lucent Technologies-Bell Labs. Border-Boose has also served as a board member for Earth Share of Ohio since 2001.
The Ohio Advisory Council for the Aging reviews plans, budgets and issues that affect older Ohioans and advocates specific administrative and legislative actions.
Virginia Ragan, of Westerville, has served as a caregiver and elder care activist since 1993. She is a member of the Ohio Council of the Alzheimer's Associations and ElderReach. She received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University.
William Demjam, of Steubenville, has served as an elder care activist since retiring from Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel in 1999. He currently serves as a member of Prime Time, a nonprofit serving senior citizens in Jefferson County. Demjan also serves as a commissioner for the Jefferson County Veterans Service Commission. He received an associate's degree from the College of Steubenville.
Robert Dell, of Mason, has served as an elder care advocate since retiring. He serves as a board member for the American Society on Aging and for the National Hispanic Council on Aging. He previously served as a member of the Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio Advisory Council. Dell also volunteers at the Sycamore Senior Center.
The Ohio Soil and Water Conservation Commission is charged with allocating state funds to soil conversation districts, recommending to the director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources the level of appropriations to special funds, advising and assisting the supervisors of soil and water conservation districts and issuing appropriate regulations governing the conduct of referendums and elections with respect to the districts.
William Knapke, of Fort Recovery, currently serves as the owner of the Meiring Poultry and Fish Farm and as the environmental manager for Cooper Farms. He previously served as a fish hatchery technician for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources from 1994-1997. Knapke also serves as the president of the Mercer County Pheasants Forever. He received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1995.
Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today issued an executive order that prohibits the expenditure of public funds for services provided offshore.
"Outsourcing jobs does not reflect Ohio values," Strickland said. "Ohioans have been among the hardest hit by more than a decade of unfair trade agreements and the trickle-down economic policies that promoted offshoring jobs at the expense of Ohioans who work for a living. We must do everything within our power to prevent outsourcing jobs because it undermines our economic development objectives, slows our recovery and deprives Ohioans and other Americans of employment opportunities."
"Ohio's policy has been — and must continue to be — that public funds should not be spent on services provided offshore," Strickland says in the order. "Throughout my Administration, procurement procedures have been in place that restrict the purchase of offshore services. Despite these requirements, federal stimulus funds were recently used to purchase services from a domestic company which ultimately provided some of those services offshore. This incident was unacceptable and has caused me to redouble my commitment to ensure that public funds are not expended for offshore services."
In March, the Department of Development contracted with Texas-based service provider Parago, Inc. to assist with the agency's implementation of the federal stimulus-funded appliance rebate program. Despite state procurement requirements designed to restrict service providers from using public funds for offshore labor — in particular, a DAS directive that requires agencies to ask potential vendors to list all locations where the services will be performed — the contract was let with a company that ultimately used offshore labor.
Earlier this week, the governor asked Development Director Lisa Patt-McDaniel to further review the circumstances surrounding the award of the Parago contract including any potential legal recourse with the vendor.
Ohio's appliance rebate program has stimulated manufacturing activity with Ohio companies such as Whirlpool, which has increased shifts and moved to a six day schedule to satisfy demand generated by the program. Nearly $10.5 of the $11 million in total program funding was awarded directly to Ohio consumers for the purchase of energy-efficient appliances. Parago was awarded $357,300, or 3.2 percent, of the total funding, for providing services.
"This program was successful in stimulating economic activity for Ohio appliance manufacturers and retailers," Strickland said. "But contracting with a domestic service provider that ultimately outsourced jobs could and should have been prevented. This order will ensure that this never happens again."
In June 2008, Strickland signed an executive order (E.O. 2008-12S) that implemented Think Ohio First practices, which promotes economic development by maximizing the use of Ohio businesses when agencies conduct purchases. The order outlined procurement reform efforts and directed all state agencies to work together for cost savings and efficiencies when purchasing supplies and services. In addition, it directed the Department of Administrative Services to hire a chief procurement officer to oversee agency purchasing functions.
Columbus, Ohio – Representatives from the minority, women and small business community are invited to learn how to do business with the State of Ohio at the 2010 Ohio Business Expo, which will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, August 20 at the Rhodes Center on the Ohio State Fairgrounds in Columbus.
"The State of Ohio has a commitment to increasing the number of minority, women and small businesses bidding on and being awarded state contracts," said Melinda Carter, the state EEO coordinator and deputy director of the Equal Opportunity Division of the Ohio Department of Administrative Services.
"The purpose of the 2010 Ohio Business Expo is to provide an opportunity to these businesses as well as to state purchasing officials to network with one another and explore business opportunities," Carter said.
Business representatives will have the opportunity to network with state procurement officers and other state officials from more than 50 state agencies, boards, commissions, colleges and universities. Businesses will receive information regarding projected set-aside contracts for this fiscal year.
Business representatives also will have the opportunity to learn how to apply for certification through the state's Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Encouraging Diversity, Growth and Equity (EDGE) programs.
The State of Ohio spent $138 million in 2009 with certified MBE and EDGE businesses. Under the leadership of Governor Ted Strickland, the number of certified MBE and EDGE businesses has increased exponentially. The state's commitment to the MBE and EDGE programs was reaffirmed in an executive order signed by Governor Ted Strickland in June 2008.
Admission to the expo is free. Parking costs $5.
Registration for the expo is preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. To register or for more information about the event or the MBE or EDGE programs, please visit the website of the Ohio Department of Administrative Services' Equal Opportunity Division at www.das.ohio.gov/eod or call 614.466.8380.
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland announced today that the U.S. Small Business Administration has granted Ohio's request to issue a disaster declaration for Wood County and contiguous counties as a result of the June 5-6 tornadoes that caused extensive damage to homes and businesses and resulted in the loss of six lives.
Governor Strickland also announced that the state will begin allocation of the more than $670,000 in State Supplemental Assistance for uninsured homeowners and renters for eligible real property and personal property damages, and uninsured funeral expenses.
"Northwest Ohio residents have suffered extensive loss of property and lives as the result of the June tornadoes," Strickland said. "While I am disappointed that we did not receive federal disaster individual or public assistance, this SBA declaration offers critical loans to residents and businesses, which, along with state assistance, can provide much-needed help to Northwest Ohioans as they make their way through this recovery process."
An SBA declaration enables individuals and businesses in Wood County, as well as those in the contiguous counties who incurred uninsured losses as a result of the June tornadoes, to apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans. Contiguous counties include: Hancock, Henry, Lucas, Ottawa, Putnam, Sandusky and Seneca.
Individuals and businesses may also apply for an SBA loan by calling 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the hearing impaired), or by going online at www.sba.gov and clicking on the button labeled "Disaster Assistance."
Supplemental assistance will be available to uninsured residents who have first applied for and been denied, or determined ineligible, for a Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loan only if damages were incurred in the following specified areas: Lake Township in Wood County; Allen Township in Ottawa County; and Monclova and Swanton Townships in Lucas County.
State Supplemental Assistance will also be available to uninsured residents of Swancreek Township in Fulton County who have first applied to the 2010 Rebuild Ohio Tornado Relief (construction loan) Program or other financial lending institutions. Fulton County is not contiguous to Wood County and therefore is not eligible for the SBA declaration.
A SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center will open at Wood County's Lake Township Fire Station #2, 1911 Ayers Road in Millbury. Hours of operation are:
State representatives will also be at an independent center in Fulton County at the Swancreek Township Building, 5565 County Road "D", Delta, Ohio. Hours of operation are:
Columbus, Ohio – The U.S. Department of Treasury today announced the approval of the Ohio Hardest-Hit Fund plan. The Ohio Housing Finance Agency will use the allocation of $172 million in federal foreclosure prevention funding to help families struggling to pay their mortgages.
"Ohio families have felt the effects of the national housing crisis harder than most. Through this partnership with the Obama Administration, the Ohio Hardest-Hit Fund will keep more Ohio families out of foreclosure while adding stability to the housing market," Governor Ted Strickland said. "The Ohio Hardest-Hit Fund will be another tool for homeowners to stay in their homes, along with ongoing state initiatives like Save the Dream and the Foreclosure Compact that bring homeowners and lenders together to avoid home foreclosure."
Ohio has received the third largest allocation of Hardest-Hit funds to date as part of the U.S. Treasury's second round of funding. Governor Strickland, the Ohio Housing Finance Agency, the Department of Commerce and the Save the Dream Ohio partners have worked together to develop a comprehensive, statewide strategy. The plan aims to assist 18,500 unemployed and underemployed homeowners who are experiencing financial hardship and are at-risk of mortgage loan default or foreclosure.
"Governor Strickland and other state leaders have worked tirelessly to address foreclosures in Ohio," said Kimberly Zurz, Director of the Ohio Department of Commerce and Ohio Housing Finance Agency Board Chairperson. "With these federal dollars in place, we can build on the success of Save the Dream Ohio to continue helping families struggling to maintain homeownership."
Ohio's program will assist homeowners with financial hardships who have been unable to qualify for existing loan modification and foreclosure prevention programs. Available programs will include: Rescue Payment Assistance, Partial Mortgage Payment Assistance, Modification Assistance with Principal Reduction and Transitional Assistance.
"Through this plan, we will provide resources that were previously unavailable to struggling borrowers," said Doug Garver, Executive Director for the Ohio Housing Finance Agency. "I am pleased that OHFA will play an active role in this initiative, coordinating a statewide network of partnerships to deliver help quickly to those who need it most. "
"Families worried about losing their homes due to job loss will find hope in this announcement. This aid is not smoke and mirrors, it's real change," said Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge. (OH-11) "Before the foreclosure crisis made national news, Ohio's families were suffering. The state's mandatory mediation program has had a positive impact on reducing foreclosures, but that effort alone cannot cure all. I've long advocated for targeted funding to the hardest hit states, and was proud when the Hardest Hit Fund was established. The President's multi-pronged approach will help families keep their dreams, even in the midst of this recession."
The Ohio Hardest-Hit Fund plan will launch September 27, 2010 but borrowers who are in need of immediate assistance should visit the Save the Dream Ohio website at savethedream.ohio.gov or call the hotline at (888) 404-4674 to get free assistance and speak directly with a housing counselor.
Columbus, Ohio – Approximately 126 cars, SUVs, trucks, vans and other vehicles will be available for bidding at the State of Ohio surplus auction Saturday, August 14.
The auction will be held at the Ohio Department of Administrative Services, General Services Division headquarters, 4200 Surface Road, Columbus. The doors open at 8 a.m.; the auction begins at 10 a.m.
Vehicles include five forklifts, most of which do not have forks or keys. Other vehicles include three 15-passenger Ford vans and two 2005 Ford F250 Super Cab 4x4 trucks with snow plows.
Vehicles may be inspected from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, August 9 through Friday, August 13. Vehicles may be started only from 8 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Friday, August 13.
Bids also will be accepted online during the live auction at proxibid.com.
All vehicles are sold as is with no warranties. All vehicles must be paid for in full the day of the auction. All purchased vehicles must be removed from the auction site by Friday, August 20. Thirty-day temporary tags will be available for purchase on site the day of the auction for $18 cash.
Surplus property auctions provide the general public an opportunity to purchase quality goods at reduced prices and enable the state to recoup a portion of its initial investment. Miscellaneous property and vehicle auctions have generated more than $1.9 million during fiscal year 2010.
Public auctions are the last step in the state's surplus program. State agencies declare property as surplus because it is damaged or at the end of its life cycle for government use. In addition, property may include items seized by law enforcement officials as well as items contributed by airline passengers. The property is then made available to other state agencies, state higher education facilities, tax-supported agencies, municipal corporations and other political subdivisions of the state, including public schools. Remaining property is sold at the public auctions.
For more information, please contact Jeff Scanlan at 614.466.2670 or visit the DAS State and Federal Surplus Services Web site.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland and the Governor's Office for Women's Initiatives and Outreach today announced the 2010 inductees to The Ohio Women's Hall of Fame.
"These exceptional women, all leaders in their fields, have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to excellence, achievement and service, often against great odds, with courage, determination and compassion," Strickland said. "I am proud to welcome them in to The Ohio Women's Hall of Fame."
The inductees for 2010 are:
Dorothy McAlpin Maguire Chapman was born in LaGrange and lived her entire life in Ohio from 1918 until her death in Spencer, Ohio in 1981. She was recruited from the Erin Brew Softball Team in Cleveland to be one of the original baseball players in the All American Girls Professional Baseball League. She played 7 seasons from 1943-1949. The statue for "Women in Baseball" at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown is modeled after one of her famous photos during a game in 1948. She later became well-known for her championships in the Central Ohio Saddle Club Association.
Barbara K. Fergus, of Dublin, is a businesswoman, philanthropist, mentor and community advocate. She is a founding member of the Women's Fund of Central Ohio, Women in Philanthropy, and the Women's Leadership Council. Fergus also serves as a board member and officer of the International Women's Forum. Her work with women and girls in Central Ohio led to the creation of the Barbara K. Fergus Women in Leadership Lecture Series. Fergus received a bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University.
Merle Grace Kearns, of Port Clinton, is a former member of the Ohio House of Representatives representing the 72nd House district and serving as Majority Leader in the 126th General Assembly. Kearns was also a member of the Ohio Senate from 1991-2000, representing the 10th Senate District. Throughout her tenure, Kearns was named "Legislator of the Year" by 10 different organizations. She also served as the director of the Ohio Department of Aging from 2005-2007. Kearns became the first woman ever to be elected as a commissioner in Clark County in 1980. She received a bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University.
Nina I. McClelland, of Toledo, currently serves as the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and the interim dean of the School of Solar and Advanced Renewable Energy at the University of Toledo. She previously served as the president of the Nina McClelland Consulting Services and as the president of the National Sanitation Foundation. McClelland has served in various governance roles for the American Chemical Society. She received a bachelor's degree from the University of Toledo and a doctorate from the University of Michigan.
Lana Moresky, of Shaker Heights, currently serves as a member of the Ohio Board of Regents. She previously served as the director of the Department of Community Services for the Cuyahoga County Auditor's Office from 1984-1999. Moresky has also served as the vice president of Heights Fund since 1990 and served as an executive board officer for Women's Law Fund from 2003-2008. She received a bachelor's degree from Pennsylvania State University in 1967.
Martha Potter Otto, of Mount Vernon, served as the senior curator of archaeology of the Ohio Historical Society before retiring. She was the first female curator of archaeology at the Ohio Historical Society when she was named to the position in 1974. During her tenure, she designed numerous educational exhibits and programs to demonstrate Ohio's heritage. She received a master's degree from The Ohio State University.
Alvarene N. Owens, of Dayton, has served as the CEO of the law firm of Alvarene N. Owens since 1986. She previously served as the director of the Inner West Dayton Model City Crime and Juvenile Delinquency program. Owens began her career as a juvenile probation officer for the Montgomery County Juvenile Court. She was the first woman to be appointed to the board of the Ohio Academy of Trial Lawyers and is a member of the National Council of Negro Women. She received a bachelor's degree from the University of Oklahoma, a master's degree from Xavier University and a law degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Elizabeth S. Ruppert, of Toledo, currently serves as the medical director of the Anne Grady Corporation Prescribed Pediatric Center and has spent her professional career advocating for and promoting quality of life issues for medically fragile children. She also serves as a professor emeritus at the University of Toledo Medical College. Ruppert served as the director of the Women's Initiative of the United Greater Toledo Area in 2006. She began her career as a pediatrician to help children live productive lives despite their health challenges. Ruppert received a bachelor's degree from Tulane University and a medical degree from The Ohio State University College of Medicine.
Rita N. Singh, of Pepper Pike, is the founder of S&A Consulting Group and Miraj International. She also serves as the vice president of education for the National Association of Women Business Owners and previously served on the statewide committee of Women Economic Development Organization for National City Bank and as a member of the Key4Women program. Singh also served as the honorary international development director for ATHENA International. She received a bachelor's and a master's degree in India. Singh later completed an associate's degree after immigrating to Ohio.
Gayle Channing Tenenbaum, of Columbus, has served as an advocate for children and Ohio's most vulnerable populations throughout her career. She currently serves as a senior policy fellow for Voices for Ohio's Children and lends her expertise and experience to numerous children and human service organizations. Tenenbaum also serves as the CEO of Channing and Associates, a human services and public policy consulting firm. She served as executive assistant of human services for Governor Richard Celeste and as the director of several human services organizations in Cuyahoga County. Tenenbaum received a master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
The Ohio Women's Hall of Fame was established in 1978 to publicly recognize the many outstanding contributions Ohio women have made to our state and nation.
The induction ceremony will be held on August 26, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at the Ohio Statehouse and is open to the public.
Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Taxation today unveiled its first-ever adjustment of Ohio's individual income tax tables for inflation, a move that will save Ohioans an estimated $25 million annually starting with the returns due next spring.
Ohio Tax Commissioner Richard A. Levin said that the income levels associated with each of Ohio's nine income tax brackets will be adjusted by 0.9 percent for the 2010 taxable year. This adjustment, based on federal economic data released last Friday, will translate into an estimated $25 million annual savings when compared to what Ohio taxpayers would have collectively paid without the adjustment.
The periodic adjustment of tax brackets for inflation is known as "indexing." Indexing is designed to prevent "bracket creep" — the tendency for individuals' incomes to creep into a higher tax bracket because of nominal increases in income, even when the real value of that income has not increased.
"The purpose of indexing is to prevent people from being pushed into a higher tax bracket when their paychecks are only keeping up with inflation," Levin said. Adjustment of tax brackets for inflation will benefit the vast majority of taxpayers, regardless of how their income has changed, he said.
The adjustment is being done in accordance with Ohio Revised Code section 5747.02, which calls on the tax commissioner to adjust brackets each July starting this year. The calculation was made on Friday based on new data released by the U.S. Department of Commerce Bureau of Economic Analysis.
Ohio's indexing law actually dates back to 2002, when the 124th General Assembly called for brackets to be adjusted annually starting in 2005. But before the first adjustment could take place, lawmakers postponed indexing for an additional five years as part of a broad tax reform plan that included five annual income tax rate cuts of 4.2 percent each. Four of those income tax rate reductions are now in place, collectively saving Ohioans about $1.7 billion during the 2010 fiscal year. The fifth rate cut is scheduled for 2011.
Ohio joins about a dozen other states that also index their tax brackets to inflation, including Arkansas, California, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, Oregon, South Carolina, Vermont and Wisconsin.
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