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Columbus, Ohio – More Ohio teenagers are engaging in healthy behaviors today, compared to 1999 and 2003, according to the 2007 Ohio Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS). While the results of the survey are encouraging, there are still areas for improvement.
Not using a seat belt, physical fighting in schools, suicide attempts and alcohol, tobacco and illegal drug use have all decreased significantly since 1999, the YRBS shows. However, fruit consumption and daily milk drinking have also declined significantly since 2003, according to the survey.
"Ohio teenagers are on the right track," said Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D. "While the overall results are encouraging, we must continue our efforts to instill healthy habits in our young people."
The 2007 YRBS follows similar surveys conducted in 1993, 1995, 1997, 1999, 2003 and 2005 and measures behaviors that contribute to the leading causes of death, disease and injury among youth. It focuses on 11 categories: youth development; injury; violence; mental health; tobacco; alcohol; illegal drugs and prescription drug abuse; sexual behaviors; nutrition; physical activity; and preventive health care.
In 2007, 2,527 students in 101 high schools were surveyed. Key findings of the 2007 YRBS include:
"Healthy youth are likely to become healthy adults and unhealthy youth are likely to be unhealthy adults," Jackson said. "ODH remains committed to work to protect and improve the health of all Ohioans – and that includes young Ohioans."
ODH conducts the biennial survey under the direction of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To view the entire report, go to the ODH Web site at: http://www.odh.ohio.gov.
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today made the following statement regarding the appointment of Nancy Rogers, dean of the Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, as acting Ohio attorney general.
"Two weeks ago a vacancy occurred in the office of Ohio's Attorney General. At that time, I indicated that much needed to be done to allow the hard-working and committed public servants in that office to do their work on behalf of the people of Ohio without distraction. And much needed to be done to refocus the public's attention on the good and important work being done there everyday.
Today, by appointing as Ohio's Attorney General a woman of great integrity, accomplishment, intellect, humility, dignity, experience and maturity, I believe we are taking an important step to restore orderliness and public confidence in the Office of the Attorney General.
Until today, Nancy Rogers served as the Dean at Ohio State University's Moritz College of Law. She has stepped down from her Deanship to take on this important challenge.
Attorney General Rogers will, for approximately six months, take a leave from the OSU law faculty to right the ship in the Attorney General's office. She has made it abundantly clear to me that she has no interest in running in the November election to finish out the remaining two years of the Attorney General's term. Once the November election results are final, she will return to the OSU law faculty with, what I am confident will be, the sincere thanks of the people of Ohio.
Why have I chosen Nancy Rogers for this important post? She is a person of great accomplishment. She is widely admired by her colleagues and peers for her judgment and leadership capabilities. And, Attorney General Rogers is a national leader in the field of dispute resolution – a skill that I can assure you will come in handy as our state's Attorney General.
Nancy has been a superb leader and administrator during seven years as the Dean at OSU's Moritz College of Law. Before serving as Dean, she was the Vice-Provost for all of Ohio State University and held a number of other leadership and senior administrative positions at the Law School during her more than 30 years teaching there.
Nancy has garnered the deep respect of her peers for her effective and thoughtful performance in those positions. In January of 2007, Dean Rogers was elected the national President of the American Association of Law Schools, the organization setting the course and priorities for legal education across the United States. And just last month, Nancy received the Ohio State Bar Association's highest honor when she was presented the Ohio Bar Medal in recognition of her sustained, exemplary service to the bar of Ohio.
Attorney General Rogers deeply understands the importance of public service. Her father, Clifford Hardin, served in Washington as the Secretary of Agriculture; her father-in-law William Rogers served in two administrations, first as Attorney General and then later as the Secretary of State. Her husband, Doug Rogers, is an intellectual property attorney who is also an expert in the area of the rights of the disabled. Doug has served as the Director of the Ohio Legal Rights Service agency, which fights for those rights every day.
With a distinguished family history of public service, it should be no surprise that Attorney General Rogers has been keenly involved in serving the community. Nancy has given nine years of service, as a presidential appointee, to the Board of the Legal Services Corporation which works to meet the legal needs of the poor. While General Rogers has assured me that she will be working well more than full time to fulfill her new duties, the one bit of non-profit involvement she has decided to continue is her leadership, with U.S. District Judge Marbley, of a local program which mentors ninth graders interested in a career in the law.
It is my very distinct honor to present to you a woman who I am certain will bring to the Ohio Attorney General's Office the dignity, professionalism and focus that Ohio's people and the staff there deserve: Attorney General Nancy Rogers."
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today signed Senate Bill 289, legislation that will establish the Ohio Department of Veterans Services and ensure employment rights to those serving in the uniformed services.
"I am proud that Ohio will have a new department to ensure Ohio's veterans and their families have one central place to go to access the benefits they deserve," Strickland said. "The Ohio Department of Veterans Services will be an advocate for Ohio's veterans in Washington, ensuring our state's veterans have greater access to federal benefits and programs."
The new department will assume the duties of the Governor's Office of Veterans Services, including the Ohio Veterans' Home Agency and the Ohio War Orphans Scholarship Board.
The duties of the current director of the Governor's Office of Veterans Services will transfer to the new director of the department, who will serve as a member of the governor's cabinet.
"The new department will work closely with county veterans' organizations to effectively coordinate and collaborate while providing quality services to Ohio's veterans as expeditiously as possible," Strickland said.
The legislation will also provide employment protections for members of the uniformed services or the Ohio organized militia who must take a leave of absence from their job to serve their country. SB 289 offers Ohio soldiers the reinstatement and reemployment rights outlined in the "Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994." Those who are denied a reinstatement or reemployment after military service can be reinstated through the court of common pleas.
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Columbus, Ohio – Warm weather may be arriving a bit late in most areas of Ohio, but this weekend the Buckeye State offers a wide variety of amazing spring fishing.
From the north shores of Lake Erie to the hundreds of inland lakes and thousands of miles of streams, opportunities are plentiful to catch "the big one." Everyone from the most avid angler to the child who is fishing for the first time will find Ohio has a waterway nearby that offers fishing fun!
It's not necessary to buy fancy, expensive fishing equipment. This time of year, with fish hanging out in the shallows and preparing to spawn, a simple setup will do. An inexpensive rod and reel combo with tackle can be purchased at a local outdoor store for as little as $20.
Live baits work very well, including nightcrawlers for catfish, perch, sunfish and bass or minnows for saugeye, walleye and crappie. Maggots and wax worms are good choices for panfish. Artificial baits will work just fine too! Visit wildohio.com and click on fishing for more details about choosing the right bait, places to fish, fish identification, and even how to fillet and cook the fish you take home! Recipes are also available at www.wildohiocookbook.com
Anglers age 16 and older are required to have a valid fishing license to take fish, frogs or turtles from Ohio waters. Fishing licenses are available at bait and tackle stores, outdoor outfitters, major department stores, and at wildohio.com. An Ohio fishing license is one of the best recreational bargains available, costing state residents only $19 a year.
Ohio residents born on or before December 31, 1937 can obtain a free fishing license at any license vendor. Residents age 66 and older born on or after January 1, 1938 are eligible to obtain a reduced-cost senior fishing license for $10. A one-day fishing license is also available for $11, an amount that can be applied toward the cost of an annual license.
For more information on places to fish, go to wildohio.com and click on fishing. The Division of Wildlife can also be contacted at 1-800-WILDLIFE (945-3543).
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Reynoldsburg, Ohio – As Memorial Day kicks off the summer camping season, Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Awareness Week serves as a reminder for Ohio's citizens to refrain from moving firewood — a major contributor to the spread of the ash tree-killing insect. At a commemorative ceremony held today at Dawes Arboretum in Licking County, Ohio Agriculture Director Robert Boggs urged Ohioans to help slow the spread of EAB by buying and burning local firewood.
Along our streets, in our parks and filling our forests, ash trees are staples in Ohio's landscape and are key environmental components," Boggs said. "Emerald Ash Borer is a threat to this valued natural resource, and I encourage all Ohioans to protect our trees by buying and burning local firewood."
The EAB Awareness Week declaration, May 18-24, is part of a regional effort to bring light to the EAB effects on Ohio's ash trees and the risks involved with moving firewood across the state. EAB Awareness Week also showcases the commonality of ash trees in Ohio's countryside since nearly one out of every ten trees is ash. To increase awareness for the week, volunteers across Ohio are participating in an ash-tree-tagging initiative with signs and caution tape to remind citizens about the importance of the state's ash tree resources. Volunteer groups plan to tag ash trees in areas throughout Ohio, including municipal streets, zoos, private and public campgrounds, as well as bike and walking trails. Several municipalities will hang nearly 400 metal "Don't Move Firewood" signs as a reminder for citizens to buy and burn local firewood.
EAB threatens the state's 5 billion ash trees and has been identified in 35 of the state's 88 counties. To slow the spread of the devastating insect, a state quarantine makes it illegal to move hardwood firewood and ash tree materials, which could harbor the pest, from 41 quarantined counties. Violators could face fines up to $4,000. A federal quarantine in place also makes it illegal to take hardwood firewood out of the state of Ohio without federal certification.
Ash trees infested with EAB typically die within five years. This invasive pest belongs to a group of metallic-colored, wood-boring beetles. Adults are dark metallic green, one-half inch long, one-eighth inch wide, and fly from May until September. Larvae spend the rest of the year beneath the bark of ash trees, damaging the trees' water and nutrient-transporting tissues. When the larvae emerge as adults, they leave behind one-eighth inch D-shaped exit holes in the bark.
For more information, call 1-888-OHIO-EAB or go to www.ohioagriculture.gov/eab.
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Columbus, Ohio – Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher today announced that Westside Industrial Retention and Expansion Network (WIRE-Net) has been awarded an $850,000 grant to identify, expand, and promote Ohio's wind energy supply chain. WIRE-Net was the successful applicant to the Ohio Wind Supply Chain Request for Proposals released by the Ohio Energy Office in February.
"By leveraging Ohio's historic strengths - our large manufacturing base and dedicated workforce - to establish a strong and sustainable manufacturing supply chain, Ohio can sharpen our competitive advantage in the wind industry," said Fisher, who serves as the Director of the Department of Development. "Our wind supply chain creates new jobs and investment from current Ohio component manufacturers, and attracts new companies to our State by providing critical resources, access to a skilled workforce, manufacturing capacity, and transportation infrastructure. We are pleased to team with WIRE-Net to increase this opportunity to lead the country in manufacturing wind turbines and component parts."
Wind energy is the world's fastest growing energy resource with over 29% annual growth over the past 5 years. Record demand for wind power has caused a two-year supply shortage of wind turbines and is pushing up the costs of ambitious wind energy projects in the United States. The demand is causing developers to secure deals for new wind turbines long before construction begins on their projects. In some cases, if developers have not secured their turbines immediately, they face at least a two-year wait.
WIRE-Net's Great Lakes Wind Network will partner with several Ohio organizations, including the Edison Welding Institute, the Edison Materials Technology Center, and Ohio University on this project over the next 12 months. The Network connects leaders from manufacturing companies serving the wind industry to help create new business opportunities, link buyers with sellers, and educate on market needs and trends.
WIRE-Net provides businesses with support in identifying and sharing best practices among manufacturing firms, making the direct connection between innovation and successful manufacturing business strategy, providing hands-on and peer-to-peer support for company leaders to use innovation as a growth strategy, and links company leaders to cost-effective resources to assist with successful innovation implementation.
The Ohio Energy Office within the Ohio Department of Development works with individuals, communities, non-profit organizations, businesses of all sizes, industry, and government agencies to create a robust economy supported by multiple energy sources, energy efficiency, and advanced technology with added value for the quality of life for all Ohioans.
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Columbus, Ohio – Children learning about wildlife and nature along a state park trailway, near a creek, around the campfire or at a naturalist program is the theme of the Ohio State Parks 2008 Photo Contest - part of the statewide "Explore the Outdoors" campaign.
Parents, guardians, scoutmasters, 4-H leaders and other adults involved in youth activities are encouraged to capture images of kids connecting with nature in one of Ohio's 74 state parks and submit those photos for the competition. Professional photographs will be accepted.
Winning photographs will be featured at ohiostateparks.org and in the 2009 spring/summer issue of the Ohio State Parks magazine.
Explore the Outdoors is an ongoing initiative of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) that encourages children - especially those in elementary school - to turn off their computers, video games and televisions and reconnect with the natural world.
To enter, send a 5-inch by 7-inch color or black/white print to
Ohio State Parks Photo Contest
2045 Morse Road, Building C-3
Columbus, Ohio 43229
The deadline for submissions is November 5.
All entries must be taken in a state park during 2008, with no more than three entries per photographer. Each photo must display the following information on the back:
Professional photographers (persons earning more than 50 percent of their income from photography) must include a publication rights release. Employees of Ohio State Parks and their families are not eligible to enter the contest.
All photo entries become the property of ODNR for use in publications and promotional materials.
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Columbus, Ohio – Nine public-private partnerships across Ohio will benefit from $2,245,000 in grants that will boost the market for recycled products in Ohio. The grants will create 51 new jobs in eight counties.
These Market Development Grants average about $250,000 each. The partnerships will use the grant money for a variety of purposes, including the purchase of equipment; product manufacturing; material processing and recovery; or facility expansion, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
"These projects represent a great boost for our environment and a highly efficient use of public dollars," said ODNR Director Sean D. Logan. "They create jobs, attract and support new business and new technology, separate valuable materials out of the waste stream, and decrease the strain on our landfills."
Those eligible for grants included businesses partnered with counties, solid waste management districts/authorities, or cities with populations of more than 50,000. A match of at least 100 percent of the grant amount is required.
Market Development Grant recipients for 2008 (by region) are:
CENTRAL OHIO
The Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio and MBD Ventures received $250,000 to establish a construction and demolition debris material recovery facility that will process 12,900 tons of material yearly and create four new jobs.
NORTHEASTERN OHIO
The Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District and Rosby Resources Recycling received $250,000 to establish a construction and demolition debris material recovery facility that will process 109,251 tons of material per year and create an estimated two new jobs.
The solid waste district and another partner, Strategic Materials, Inc., received an additional $250,000 to rebuild a recycled glass processing facility that will process 45,000 tons of glass per year and create and estimated nine new jobs.
The Mahoning County Solid Waste District and Recycle Management, Inc. received $250,000 to construct a new material recovery facility and purchase a baler/conveying system, front-end loader and star screen system to process 10,433 tons of recyclable material a year. The facility will create an estimated 12 new jobs.
The Summit-Akron Solid Waste Management Authority and B.E.T.-Sagamore Company received $250,000 to expand the capacity of an existing food waste composting facility by purchasing a grinding system that will process 4,000 tons of material per year. The facility will add two new jobs as a result.
SOUTHWESTERN OHIO
The Clark County Solid Waste District and Paygro, a division of Garick Corporation, received $245,000 to expand the capacity of an existing food waste composting facility through the purchase of a mixing unit, plastic separator and two collection trucks. The added equipment will allow Paygro to process 13,000 tons of material per year and create an estimated five new jobs.
The Hamilton County Solid Waste District and Technology Recycling Group received $250,000 to expand the processing ability of an existing electronics recycling facility through the purchase of an Andela Cathode Ray. The added equipment will allow the Technology Recycling Group to process 22,000 tons of material per year and employ five new people.
NORTHWESTERN OHIO
The Crawford County Solid Waste District and Innovative Recycling received $250,000 to establish a construction and demolition debris material recovery facility that will process 60,000 tons of material per year and create an estimated 10 new jobs.
The Wood County Solid Waste District and NAT Transportation/Wood Water Services received $250,000 to expand the capacity of a food waste composting facility through the purchase of equipment that will process 10,000 tons of material per year. The expansion will create two new jobs.
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Columbus, Ohio – As more Ohioans join the state's "Transportation Conversation" by saying record-high gas prices have changed their moods about alternative modes of transportation, the conversation over Ohio's future is set to grow even louder in the coming weeks at a series of regional meetings of the Ohio 21st Century Transportation Priorities Task Force.
Over the past several weeks, hundreds of Ohioans have submitted ideas and opinions to the task force online at TransportationForTomorrow.ohio.gov. A popular topic has been the impact of recent prices for gasoline and diesel fuel.
Adding to those public comments are reports into the Ohio Department of Transportation revealing more Ohio motorists are choosing to leave their cars at home. Transit agencies in Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati have reported increases in ridership rates (the Central Ohio Transit Authority reported a 17.5 percent increase in April over the previous year). Businesses are also choosing alternative options for moving freight. According to the Association of American Railroads, freight traffic on U.S. railroads was the second highest on record last year.
ODOT traffic counts on Ohio's urban and rural roadways also show a decline over the past year. Overall average daily traffic dropped 1.1 percent in 2007 compared to the previous year – the first time ODOT has recorded overall decreased traffic counts on interstate, freeway and arterial roadways across the state.
Launched last month, the Ohio 21st Century Transportation Priorities Task Force has been charged with envisioning Ohio's future transportation system - determining how the state can best balance the movement of people and freight, create jobs and generate economic development, and link all modes of transportation by connecting highways to rail, aviation, water ports, transit, bike paths and walkways.
The task force, comprised of experts from both private and governmental sectors, is also examining the fairest ways to finance Ohio's future transportation system.
To gather more public input and information about Ohio's diverse regional needs, the task force will host a series of open meetings across the state. In additional to learning more about the task force, Ohioans will be able to share their vision of the type of transportation system they believe Ohio needs for the 21st Century.
Details about all meetings, including times, locations and directions, can be found at: TransportationForTomorrow.ohio.gov.
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Columbus, Ohio – Various computer and electronic equipment, office furniture and household appliances will be among the items available for purchase at the state of Ohio surplus auction Saturday, May 17.
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 will begin at 9 a.m. The sale will be conducted by Cassel & Associates.
A variety of personal digital assistants, cellular phones, laptop and personal computers, washers and dryers, small refrigerators and an electric guitar will be auctioned. To view the items, please visit http://das.ohio.gov/gsd/propfac/surplus/warehouse/index.htm.
Purchased items must be paid for in full the day of the sale. Cash and credit cards are accepted. Cassel & Associates must approve all methods of payment other than cash.
All purchased items must be picked up by 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 21. Regular auction warehouse hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The warehouse is open until 6 p.m. on the day of the auction.
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. Warehouse and vehicle auctions have generated more than $4 million to date during fiscal year 2008.
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. The property then is 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. Auction merchandise also includes items collected by the Transportation Security Administration from airline passengers.
For more information, including payment options and directions, please contact Jim Rooker at (614) 466-7636 or visit the State and Federal Surplus Services Web site at www.ohio.gov/surplus.
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Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Tourism Division today unveiled a new consumer advertising campaign designed to drive travel to and within Ohio. The campaign was presented in conjunction with recognition from Governor Ted Strickland and Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher declaring May "Ohio Tourism Month".
"This is an innovative, new campaign for Ohio tourism that showcases identifiable Ohio experiences including some of Ohio's all-star talents with whom national television audiences are already familiar," said Lt. Governor Fisher, who also serves as Director of the Ohio Department of Development. "The print, radio, and television ads bring a fun, vibrant, and exciting feel to our campaign and will be added to our overall marketing efforts to generate increased visitation from surrounding states."
The new advertising campaign, developed by Ron Foth Advertising, is designed to focus on a key economic driver - overnight travelers.
"We know from our research that overnight travelers significantly outspend day-trippers," said State Tourism Director Amir Eylon. "In addition, we know that about 79 percent of Ohio's leisure visitation is comprised of day-trip travel. We believe that we can convert many of these day-trip stays into overnights that will positively impact Ohio's economic bottom line," Eylon said.
To effectively drive tourism, the campaign portrays Ohio as "Too Much Fun for Just One Day," encouraging visitors to consider staying the night in Ohio. Specifically, the campaign encourages three-day getaways while highlighting the diversity of Ohio's attractions and the ability Ohio visitors have to enjoy many experiences within a short timeframe. To bring greater attention to the marketing efforts, the Tourism Division is employing some Ohio star-power in the form of Columbus Zoo Director Emeritus Jack Hanna and the Cincinnati Reds' baseball star Ken Griffey, Jr.
The campaign targets key feeder markets in neighboring states including Detroit, Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, Louisville/Lexington, and Charleston/Huntington. A majority of the paid media investment will be seen in these markets. During Ohio Tourism Month (May), the campaign also will target consumers in Ohio including Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Dayton, Toledo, and Youngstown. The campaign will extend through June - the Midwest's peak planning period for summer and fall getaways.
Research commissioned by the Tourism Division and conducted by Tourism Economics and Longwoods International indicates that in 2007, Ohio's tourism industry generated $38 billion in sales, an increase of five percent over 2006. Tourism also accounted for approximately $2.5 billion in state and local taxes for Ohio.
According to research presented from Longwoods International, Ohio recorded 172.3 million visits in 2007 with 35.8 million of those visits including an overnight stay.
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Columbus, Ohio – Lieutenant Governor Fisher today announced that Clean Ohio Assistance Fund grant applications will be accepted through the Ohio Department of Development's Urban Development Division beginning July 1. Approximately $11.4 million is available this funding cycle for the Clean Ohio Assistance Fund for brownfield redevelopment in Priority Investment Areas.
"This funding will help revitalize Ohio's urban areas to bring new capital and vitality back into our local economies," said Lt. Governor Fisher, who also serves as Director of the Ohio Department of Development. "Investing in our communities leads to future economic success and the creation of good jobs for Ohio workers, and I strongly encourage communities to apply."
The Clean Ohio Assistance Fund is an open cycle program that provides grant dollars for Phase II Environmental Assessment and Brownfield Cleanup/Public Health Projects. To date, 109 Clean Ohio Assistance Fund projects have been awarded totaling $39.1 million. Of the 109 projects, 34 were for cleanup projects which leveraged more than $400 million and are expected to create more than 4,000 jobs. Awards will be made by the Director of the Ohio Department of Development.
The applications will be evaluated on criteria including economic benefit, environmental improvement, appropriateness and reasonableness of the proposed project, the financial condition of the community, and the project's readiness.
In 2000, Ohio voters approved the Clean Ohio Fund providing $200 million for brownfield redevelopment activities and $200 million for the preservation of green space. For more information on the Clean Ohio Assistance Fund or to access the grant applications, please visit www.development.ohio.gov/ud/coaf.htm.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today announced the following appointments to state boards and commissions.
The Ohio Community Service Council works to encourage and expand community service programs throughout the state. It also assists state agencies in coordinating community service education programs through cooperative efforts between institutions and organizations in the public and private sectors.
Maureen Drummond, of Canfield, has served as the program director for Volunteer Services Agency, Inc., in Youngstown since 2001. She previously served as the agency's director of senior programs and RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) project director. Drummond received a bachelor's degree from Youngstown State University in 1985.
Chelsea Merriman, of Hilliard, is pursuing a bachelor's degree at Otterbein College. She serves as the volunteer coordinator for Otterbein's United Methodist Children's Home program and the vice president of the Center for Community Engagement TEAM. Merriman is also a member of Raise Your Voice, an Otterbein organization urging college students to vote and understand the political process.
Jeffrey King, of Columbus, has served as the State 4-H Leader and assistant director of the Ohio State University Extension since 1998. As State 4-H Leader, he oversees the Ohio 4-H Youth Development program across all 88 counties. King received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1981, a master's degree from Ohio State in 1985 and a doctorate from Ohio State in 1997.
Juliet Thomas, of West Salem, currently serves as the AmeriCorps*VISTA leader and special project coordinator for the North Carolina Campus Compact. She was previously the community service coordinator for AmeriCorps*VISTA for the Ohio Campus Compact at Ashland University. Thomas received a bachelor's degree from Miami University in 2005.
The State Medical Board receives applications and conducts examinations for certificates of persons desiring to practice medicine, osteopathic medicine and surgery in the state of Ohio. The board also may revoke existing licenses or certificates of doctors and surgeons in Ohio.
Marchelle Suppan, of Orrville, is the vice president of medical affairs for Dunlap Memorial Hospital and an adjunct instructor of basic pharmacology at the University of Akron, Wayne College. From 1991-2004, she served as the president/owner of the Suppan Foot and Ankle Clinic. Suppan received a bachelor's degree from Kent State University in 1976, a doctorate from the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine in 1980 and an MBA from Ashland University in 2003.
Susan Stephens, of Gates Mills, works in private practice at the Institute for Spine in Concord and Associates In Orthopaedics in Cleveland Heights. Stephens received a bachelor's degree from Princeton University in 1982 and a doctor of medicine from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in 1986. She conducted her post-graduate residencies at the Los Angeles County-University of Southern California Medical Center.
The Partnership for Continued Learning was established to promote systemic approaches to education by supporting regional efforts to foster collaboration among providers of preschool through postsecondary education, identifying the workforce needs of private sector employers in the state, and making recommendations for facilitating collaboration among providers of preschool through postsecondary education and for maintaining a high-quality workforce in the state.
Mattie James, of Columbus, is the president and CEO of the Child Development Council of Franklin County, Inc. - a position she has held since 1985. As president and CEO, James oversees a child and family development agency that serves more than 1,800 children and families in Franklin County. A West Virginia native, James received a bachelor's degree from West Virginia State College in 1964.
The Third Frontier Commission coordinates and administers science and technology programs to support the welfare of the people of the state and to maximize the economic growth of the state through expansion of the state's high technology research and development capabilities and the state's product and process innovation and commercialization.
William McCreary, of Sylvania, is the vice president and chief technical officer for Nippon Sheet Glass Group, a glass technology innovator and manufacturer. He serves as the vice president and chief information officer for Pilkington North America, Inc., an NSG subsidiary in Toledo. McCreary received a bachelor's degree from the University of Toledo in 1971 as well as master's degrees in business administration, economics, and applied math and computer methods.
The State Lottery Commission acts as an advisory body to the administration of the state lottery. Members should have prior experience in business administration, management, sales, marketing, or advertising.
Otto Beatty III, of Columbus, has been the co-owner of E.E. Ward Moving and Storage in Columbus since 2001. Beatty served as a partner and associate with Baker and Hostetler LLP from 1995-2007 and specialized in commercial law, Ohio administrative law, bankruptcy and financial institutions. He received a bachelor's degree from Morehouse College in 1991 and a law degree from the University of Michigan in 1993.
The State Fire Commission may recommend courses of action to be taken by the fire marshal in carrying out his duties.
Ann Spicer, of Columbus, is the executive vice president of the Ohio Academy of Family Physicians - a position she has held since 1995. She previously served as the executive secretary for the Ohio House of Representatives from 1993-1994 and as an assistant to the Speaker of the Ohio House from 1979-1993. She received a bachelor's degree from Capital University in 1977.
The eTech Ohio Commission governs eTech Ohio. An executive director oversees a staff of approximately 80 employees and manages the day-to-day operations of eTech. The Commission meets to consider grant requests and other policy matters.
David Todt, of Friendship, is currently the interim provost of Shawnee State University. He served as the university's associate provost/director of Institutional Planning from 2004-2007 and the chairman of the Department of Teacher Education from 1997-2004. Todt received a bachelor's degree from Miami University in 1971 and earned graduate degrees from Miami University and the Ohio State University.
The State Board of Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics adopts rules to carry out the form and manner of filing licensure applications and renewals and the standards for evaluating licensure examinations.
Rosalind Batley, of Canal Winchester, has taught at the Ohio State University since 1982. She currently serves as an associate professor in the university's Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation as well as in the Department of Pediatrics. Batley received a bachelor's degree from Ohio Wesleyan University in 1973 and a medical degree from the Ohio State University College of Medicine in 1977.
Kevin Hawkins, of Poland, has been a board certified and state licensed staff prosthetist for the Hanger Orthopedic Group, Inc., since 2002. He previously served as the director of prosthetic services for ABi Orthotics and Prosthetics. Hawkins received a bachelor's degree from Memphis State University in 1984.
The State Board of Emergency Medical Services is charged with preparing a plan for the statewide regulation of emergency medical services during times of disaster. The board oversees an Emergency Medical Services Grant program to improve quality and accessibility of EMS services within the state.
James Holcomb, of Pickerington, is retired after 34 years in public education, where he served as a teacher and administrator. In the course of his career, he also worked as a part-time volunteer firefighter and EMT. Holcomb received a bachelor's degree from Bluffton College in 1966 and a master's degree in guidance and counseling from Kent State University in 1971.
The Board of Building Standards formulates and adopts standards and regulations governing the erection, construction, repair, alteration and maintenance of all classes of buildings specified under section 3781.06 of the Ohio Revised Code.
Gerry Bird, of Dublin, is the co-founder and managing principal of Bird Houk Collaborative, a multidisciplinary architecture, planning, urban design and landscape architecture firm. Bird served seven years as the president and/or director of the Columbus Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. He received a master's degree in architecture from the Ohio State University and an MBA from Capital University.
The State Board of Optometry holds examinations for optometrists twice yearly. It issues licenses, may revoke licenses and establishes rules and regulations governing the practice of optometry.
Dennis Roark, of Springfield, has served in private optometry practice in Springfield for 35 years. He has been a member of the Ohio Optometric Association and American Optometric Association for more than 40 years. Roark received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1968 and a doctor of optometry in 1970.
The Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board oversees the grading of examinations of individuals applying to be professional counselors, social workers, or independent social workers and determines if an applicant is qualified for practice.
Robert Nelson, of Yellow Springs, has served as the clinical supervisor for the AIDS Resource Center Ohio in Dayton since 1999. He also serves as an adjunct professor in the Sociology and Anthropology Department at Wright State University. Nelson received a bachelor's degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 1970 and a master's degree in social work from SUNY at Buffalo in 1973.
Francine Packard, of Youngstown, works at the Center for Behavioral Medicine, Youth Services, in Youngstown as the acting adolescent and adult recovery services coordinator. She also serves as a crisis response team member for the Center. Packard received a bachelor's degree from Kent State University in 1995 and a master's in education at Youngstown State University in 2001.
The Reclamation Commission provides an administrative appeal to any person claiming to be aggrieved or adversely affected by a decision of the chief of the Division of Mineral Resources Management at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, relating to mining and reclamation issues.
Gene Branstool, of Utica, is a former member of the Ohio House of Representatives and the Ohio Senate. A farmer for 39 years, Branstool was inducted into the Licking County Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2004. He is currently a member of the board of directors for Licking Memorial Hospital. He graduated from the Ohio State University College of Agriculture in 1958.
The Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy and Athletic Trainers Board licenses practitioners of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and athletic training, either through examination or reciprocity and investigates complaints and concerns relative to alleged violations of Chapter 4755 of the Ohio Revised Code, which can result in the suspension or revocation of a license, or the refusal to issue or renew a license.
Kimberly Lawler, of Frazeysburg, is a full-time occupational therapy instructor at Zane State College. She is also a register/licensed occupational therapist at Genesis HealthCare System in Zanesville, People First Rehab in Coshocton, Southeast Ohio Rehab Services in Salesville and Therapros in Cambridge. Lawler received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1992 and a master's degree from Nova Southeastern University in 2005.
Averell Russell Overby, of Athens, has served as an associate professor and the director of the Ohio University School of Physical Therapy since 1996. She previously served as an associate professor in the School of Physical Therapy at Texas Woman's University. She received a bachelor's degree from Immaculata College in 1969, a master's in physical therapy from Stanford University in 1971 and a doctorate in public health from the University of Texas in 1993.
The Barber Board prescribes sanitary regulations for barber shops and barber schools, subject to approval by the Department of Health. The board also provides barbering permits, examinations, registration and certification.
Charles Graf, of Lancaster, is employed as a barber by the HairShop in Lancaster. He was previously self-employed.
The Technical Advisory Council on Oil and Gas advises the Division of Mineral Resources Management at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources on technical matters which may arise concerning oil and gas production, drilling, and exploration.
John Ackerman, of Woodsfield, is a self-employed Nationwide Insurance agent and a farmer. As an insurance agent for 22 years, Ackerman has worked with land owners and farmers on oil and gas leasing issues and property liability. He also served two years as the president of the Monroe County Agricultural Society.
The Ohio Steel Industry Advisory Council is responsible for conducting an examination of existing federal and Ohio laws that currently affect the production and consumption of Ohio steel, problems that the Ohio steel industry currently faces, including foreign competition and the economic climate for the Ohio steel industry, and other matters relevant to the future of the steel industry in this state. The Council also submits an annual report to legislative leaders and advises local and state government officials.
Larry Taylor, of Amherst, is currently the plant manager for U.S. Steel Lorain Tubular Operations. His 30 years of manufacturing and human resources experience include serving as the North American human resources manager for Almatis, Inc, from 2004-2006 and as the manager of human resources for Copperweld in Piqua from 1997-2004. He received a bachelor's degree from Bluffton College in 2003.
Leonard Anthony, of Warren, is the president and CEO of WCI Steel, Inc. He previously served as the executive vice president and chief financial officer for Dresser Rand Group, Inc., in Houston from 2005-2007. Anthony also served more than 20 years in various positions at the Bethlehem Steel Corporation in Pennsylvania. He received a bachelor's degree from Pennsylvania State University in 1976 and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania in 1993.
The Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board regulates the licensure and certification process of chemical dependency counselors and specialists, approves educational coursework and investigates ethical complaints against licensees. The board also regulates the prices of chemical dependency counseling and alcohol and other drug prevention services.
Mary Haag, of Cincinnati, is the director of coalition strategies for the Coalition for a Drug-Free Greater Cincinnati. Among her professional affiliations, Haag is a board member and president of the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Association of Ohio. She received a bachelor's degree from the College of Mount St. Joseph in 1986. She is also a registered nurse.
Kenneth Brown, of Springfield, is a probation officer with more than 15 years of experience. He currently serves as the director of probation for the Clark County Municipal Court. He previously worked as a unit supervisor for the Montgomery County Juvenile Probation Department. Brown received a bachelor's degree from Wright State University in 1984 and a master's degree from the University of Dayton in 1995.
The Ohio Respiratory Care Board regulates and enforces the provision of Chapter 4761 of the Ohio Revised Code for the purpose of improving the quality of respiratory care delivered to the public by respiratory care professionals.
Carol Gilligan, of Lakewood, is the founder and president of Health Aid of Ohio, Inc., a company that offers rehab medical equipment to approximately 6,000 patients in northern Ohio. She serves on the Ohio Association of Medical Equipment Suppliers (OAMES) Medicaid and Medicare committees and is a member of the American Association for Homecare.
Susan Ciarlariello, of Dayton, has served as the director of respiratory care at Dayton Children's Medical Center since 1986. She also serves as director of transport and director of the sleep center for the Medical Center. She received an associate's degree in respiratory therapy from Sinclair Community College in 1975, a bachelor's degree from Antioch University in 1991 and an MBA from Wright State University in 2003.
E. Lucy Kester, of Ravenna, is the education coordinator for the respiratory therapy section of the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. A registered respiratory therapist, Kester has authored several reports dealing with respiratory care. She received an associate's degree from Cuyahoga Community College in 1975, a bachelor's degree from Kent State University in 1980 and an MBA from Cleveland State University in 1987.
The Public Health Council is the primary rule-making body for the Department of Health and its powers and duties are set forth in law. It adopts, amends, and rescinds rules pertaining to public health. It prescribes, by rule, the number and functions of divisions and bureaus and the qualifications of the chiefs of the divisions and bureaus with the Department; and it advises the director of health on matters affecting public health.
David Bitonte, of Louisville, served as the medical director for Ohio KePro, the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization for Ohio, from 2000-2007. He served as a practicing anesthesiologist from 1985-2000. Bitonte received a bachelor's degree from the University of Dayton in 1976, a doctorate from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1980 and an MBA from Youngstown State University in 2003. He is currently in private practice.
The Wildlife Council advises the Division of Wildlife of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources on policies pertaining to preservation of wildlife, management of wildlife based on public hearings or investigations, and has supervision over the wildlife in state parks.
Horace Karr, of Pomeroy, is retired after working nearly 40 years in construction. He also owns and operates a large farm operation in Pomeroy.
James Lynch, of Columbus, is retired after working 33 years in numerous capacities for WBNS TV-10 (CBS), including regional sales manager, local sales manager and account executive. An avid outdoorsman, Lynch is a member of numerous sportsman organizations. He received a bachelor's degree from Ohio University in 1958.
The Savings and Loan Association and Savings Bank Board makes recommendations to the superintendent of financial institutions and the deputy superintendent of savings and loan associations and savings banks on matters relating to the business of savings and loan associations and savings banks.
Dan Stevens, of Bethel, is currently chairman of the board of directors for Bethel Building and Loan Company. He has more than 30 years of experience in the funeral industry, including as owner/president of Kennedy-Stevens Funeral Homes in Bethel from 1973-1997 and as an employee of Carriage Services in Houston from 1997-2007. He attended the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science.
Sandra McNeil, of Greenfield, is the executive managing officer and board member for the Home Building and Loan Company, where she has worked since 1972. She has also served as a member of the Greenfield Area Medical Center Board of Trustees since 1972. A life-long resident of Greenfield, McNeil has served on numerous other city and community boards and organizations.
Robert Smith, of Portsmouth, has been the president and CEO of American Savings Bank in Portsmouth since 1998. He has worked at the bank in numerous capacities since 1966. Smith served as the chairman of the Ohio Bankers League in 2007. He received a bachelor's degree from Ohio University in 1974.
Robert Hamilton, of West Lafayette, has served as chairman and CEO of the Home Loan Savings Bank in Coshocton since 1998. He has worked for the bank in numerous capacities since 1981 and previously served as the vice president of Bank One of Coshocton from 1960-1981. He attended the American Institute of Banking, the Ohio School of Banking and the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin.
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Columbus, Ohio – As Ohio families recognize Mother's Day this weekend, Ohio Treasurer Richard Cordray is trying something new to encourage those moms in their quest for financial security.
The Treasurer's office will make available online its newly-revised Women & Money 2008 Workbook, from Saturday, May 10 through Saturday, May 17. The workbook contains information on a wide variety of personal finance topics and is used as part of the office's annual Women & Money free financial workshops held during the summer. The Workbook is usually distributed only at the workshops.
The most recent statistics from the Institute for Women's Policy Research indicate that female senior citizens in Ohio are nearly twice as likely to live in poverty as their male counterparts. Women of all ages in Ohio are earning about 75 cents for every dollar which men earn, while more than a quarter of the state's households with children are headed by women.
"Women in Ohio are working hard, and raising families... many times, as the sole head of their household," said Treasurer Cordray. "Every bit of financial information they can get will help them balance their needs and their resources. Many of the 3,000 women who attended our Women & Money workshops last year told us that the workbook they took home guided them and reminded them of the steps to take toward financial security. We are now making the newest updates to this educational information available before this year's workshops even begin, in hope of sparking broader resolve to increase our financial knowledge."
The 280-page Women & Money 2008 Workbook has twelve sections covering the following topics: Budgeting, Credit & Debt, Elder Care, Entrepreneurship, Estate Planning, Home Ownership, Identity Theft, Insurance, Investments, Kids & Money, Retirement Planning, and Supportive Financial Attitudes. The Workbook (and each section, which can be downloaded individually) is available for free download during the week of Mother's Day. A gift card option will be available for Web site visitors to send, for those who wish to offer a link to the Workbook as a Mother's Day gift. The workbook and other information can be found at www.YourMoneyNOWOnline.org.
The Workbook will also be distributed to attendees of Treasurer Cordray's 2008 Women & Money workshops. These free conferences will be held between May 5 and July 14 in the following Ohio cities: Dayton, Youngstown, Cincinnati, St. Clairsville, Toledo, Lima, McArthur, Columbus, Akron, and Cleveland.
To learn more about the Women & Money workshops, or to sign up for one in your area, call 1-800-228-1102 or visit www.YourMoneyNOWOnline.org.
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Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife has some strong advice for well-meaning people who seek to rescue wild animals that appear to be orphaned: Leave them alone!
Every year, wildlife officers, biologists and licensed rehabilitators attempt to educate local residents about the hazards of handling wild animals. Despite their cute, and sometimes helpless appearance, wild animals are capable of biting, scratching and transmitting diseases to humans and domestic animals.
Many people believe that they are doing the right thing by rescuing a young wild animal and think that hand raising is a good alternative to being raised in the wild. This could not be further from the truth as a hand-raised wild animal, even under expert care, has little chance of long-term survival once released to the wild.
State and federal laws protect and regulate all wildlife species in Ohio and only individuals who obtain a special permit from the Division of Wildlife may possess a native wild animal. Because of the difficulties in providing the proper care and diet for wild animals, only specially trained and licensed wildlife rehabilitators are authorized to take them in from the wild when they are found to be truly orphaned or injured.
Each year, wildlife officers issue summons to individuals who have taken wildlife, particularly fawns, out of the wild, even if their intent was to help the animal. When a wildlife official receives a call regarding a fawn, the first thing they do is advise the person to take the animal back to where they found it.
A doe will protect her young from predators by leaving it alone for long periods of time. The fawn may be hidden in a hay field, a grassy meadow, the edge of a homeowner's lawn, or even in a flowerbed. Regardless of where she left the fawn, the doe will stay away until after dark then return to nurse it. If the doe is nowhere in sight, some people mistakenly believe the fawn is abandoned and try to help it by taking it out of the wild.
Wild animals have a better chance of survival if left alone in the wild. Studies have shown that more than half of the fawns that are brought in by well-meaning people do not survive rehabilitation and most of the remaining animals die shortly after reentry to the wild. Additionally, handling stresses the animal, and excessive handling can make the animal defensive or can ultimately contribute to its death.
A common belief is that once young wildlife has been touched or handled by humans the mother will no longer have anything to do with it. This is not so, while wildlife officials discourage people from handling wild animals, there are rare occasions when it may be necessary. If a nestling bird has fallen out of a tree, or your child has plucked a young rabbit from its nest, pick it up and put it back in the nest immediately. Do not attempt to hand raise it.
Wild animals can carry parasites or diseases harmful to humans and pets, including distemper, roundworms and rabies. The risk of disease is another good reason to leave wildlife in the wild.
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Wednesday, May 7, 2008, 9:00am - 11:30am
ODOT Central Office - 1980 W. Broad Street, Columbus
Webcast Address: TransportationForTomorrow.ohio.gov
Columbus, Ohio – Already attracting a diverse mix of public input and research from around the nation, Ohio's first-of-its-kind "Transportation Conversation" will gain more momentum as the Ohio 21st Century Transportation Priorities Task Force comes together for its Inaugural Meeting at the Ohio Department of Transportation's Central Office in Columbus.
Speaking at the Inaugural Meeting will be Ohio Governor Ted Strickland, ODOT Director James Beasley, Task Force Chairman Ty Marsh, and Ohio Treasurer Richard Cordray. Task force members will also hear from other statewide and national transportation leaders and industry experts.
The event also features Frank Busalacchi, current Wisconsin Secretary of Transportation and co-author of the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study, which reviewed the current condition of the nation's transportation system, identifying future needs and financing options with the federal gas tax.
Ohioans have been joining the "Transportation Conversation" by submitting ideas and opinions online at TransportationForTomorrow.ohio.gov. The site will show a live webcast of the Inaugural Meeting as well as provide new information on a series of public meetings scheduled across the state.
The Ohio 21st Century Transportation Priorities Task Force has brought together experts from both private and governmental sectors, with backgrounds ranging from business and industry, shipping and logistics, finance and development, urban planning and agriculture, education and health care, transportation, and state and local government.
This statewide conversation - designed to envision Ohio's future transportation system - centers on three key issues: promoting a multi-modal system, generating economic development, and maximizing public investment. The complete list of task force members is also at TransportationForTomorrow.ohio.gov.
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today proclaimed May 11-17 as Ohio Senior Center Week to recognize the work that senior centers, their staff and volunteers do to enrich lives and strengthen communities.
"Senior centers are often the point at which Ohio's network of dedicated aging services professionals connects to the community," said Strickland. "They are not only providers of services that help residents maintain independence and dignity, but they also serve as focal points, bringing generations together and providing older Ohioans, baby boomers and many others with meaningful and valuable activities."
More than 400 full- and part-time senior centers in Ohio have locations, staff and programs that uniquely reflect the diversity of the people they serve. Services include social activities, educational programs, trips, volunteer opportunities, exercise, wholesome meals and more.
Centers also play a crucial role in Ohio's social services system, through home-delivered meals, transportation and other valuable services. Working in concert with the Ohio Department of Aging and other service providers, senior centers strive to promote the dignity, self-determination and well-being of older Ohioans.
"Just as many in the community have come to rely on their senior centers for activities, services and supports, centers rely on community support to thrive and grow," said Barbara E. Riley, director of the department. "We hope that all Ohioans will take time this week to learn more about their local senior centers, find out what is available there and ask how they can become involved or help."
The Department of Aging proudly partners with OASC, a membership-based trade organization that represents and supports the state's senior center network, to promote the senior center network. Visit www.goldenbuckeye.com/about/seniorcenters.html for an interactive list of senior centers throughout the state.
Senior Center Week 2008 falls during Older Americans Month, a national observance held each May. Most Ohio senior centers will organize events to celebrate seniors throughout the month. Visit www.goldenbuckeye.com/oam/ for information about events in your area.
Ohio's Senior Center Week coincides with the annual conference of the Ohio Association of Senior Centers (OASC), May 12-14, at the DoubleTree Hotel Columbus/Worthington.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio smokers who've gone online in search of cheap cigarettes may find out that it cost them more than they anticipated. This week, the Ohio Department of Taxation has begun mailing letters that bill Internet purchasers for unpaid cigarette excise and sales taxes.
The department is mailing out a total of 5,469 bills over the next few weeks for a total of $2,153,775 in uncollected cigarette and sales taxes. These bills represent the Ohio taxes due – but unpaid – on cigarette purchases made online between July 2007 and March 2008.
"Our goal here is to enforce the law, out of fairness to consumers who do play by the rules and to Ohio business owners who are operating responsibly," Tax Commissioner Richard A. Levin said.
An individual in northern Ohio is receiving the largest single bill, totaling $2,700. Most of the bills are $600 or less.
The federal Jenkins Act requires vendors who sell cigarettes across state lines to report those sales to the states in which the sales are made. The department asked for and received the names, addresses, and quantities of cigarettes sold to Ohio customers by five Internet vendors.
Ohio law requires that all sales of cigarettes in the state be made "face-to-face," which means they cannot legally be purchased via the Internet. The last time the state billed for unpaid cigarette taxes, in 2006, it collected $568,807 from 1,610 individuals for online purchases made since 2002.
Cigarettes sold in Ohio are subject to both excise and sales taxes. The current state excise tax on a pack of cigarettes is $1.25. There is an additional tax of 34.5 cents per pack in Cuyahoga County. The state sales tax rate is 5.5 percent, plus additional county and transit authority "piggyback" sales taxes that add between 0.5 and 2.25 percentage points, depending on the location. These taxes are due on all purchases on which they have not already been paid.
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today signed into law Senate Bill 221, a landmark energy reform bill that will ensure predictability of affordable energy prices and serve as a catalyst to enhance energy industries in Ohio, bringing new jobs while protecting existing jobs.
Strickland made the following comments today before signing SB 221 in the Ohio Statehouse Atrium.
"One year ago today I spoke to the Toledo Chamber of Commerce and outlined a set of principles to guide our efforts in transforming our electric structure in the State of Ohio.
These principles were focused on:
Today I am proud to say that with the help of legislative leaders in both parties we have kept our word to Ohioans on these important and guiding principles.
This bill, Senate Bill 221, will ensure predictability of affordable energy prices and maintain state controls necessary to protect Ohio jobs and businesses.
We will safeguard Ohio families by empowering consumers and modernizing Ohio's energy infrastructure.
And we will attract the jobs of the future through an advanced energy portfolio standard–and today's action by Ohio means that a majority of states now agree that these technologies represent the future of energy in the United States.
This requirement means that 25% of the energy sold in Ohio must come from advanced and renewable energy technologies–from clean coal to wind turbines–by 2025.
This could not have been accomplished without the hard work of many of you here today as well as citizens across the state–and I want to thank you for your tireless efforts to get us to this point and remind you that you will continue to play a vital role as we work to implement this plan.
Staff at the Public Utilities Commission, and its commissioners, deserve an enormous amount of gratitude for the work they have already begun and will continue to do as we see these legislative objectives through to the finish line.
I am proud to be here today with Ohio's legislative leadership. We can all be proud of this bill."
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland and the Ohio Department of Aging today officially kicked off Older Americans Month in Ohio. The President of the United States designates each May as a time to celebrate the accomplishments of older citizens, express gratitude for their contributions to society and encourage them to live vibrant, meaningful lives. Ohio's theme for Older Americans Month 2008 is "Loving Life, Helping Others, Supporting Communities."
"Ohio is a great place to live in large part because of the contributions of our senior citizens," said Strickland. "They improve their communities through activities such as volunteering and caregiving, and as employees are irreplaceable to many, many businesses throughout the state."
"Seniors are not only the foundations of their families, but also can be cornerstones of their communities," added Barbara E. Riley, director of the Department of Aging. "Older Ohioans are caregivers, teachers, volunteers, mentors, employees, co-workers and community leaders. By staying engaged and sharing their experiences and talents, they enrich the lives of their neighbors and strengthen their community and the state."
The Department of Aging encourages communities, senior centers, organizations and individuals to organize public events to celebrate Older Americans Month and Senior Citizens Day on May 20. Local events traditionally include health fairs, luncheons, dances, outings, day trips and more. The department has a special Web page, www.goldenbuckeye.com/oam/, that lists activities throughout the month from across the state. The site also includes posters, logos and sample materials to help organizations plan and promote celebrations.