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Columbus, Ohio – New Year's Day will bring with it another series of cuts in state tax rates – the latest step in an ongoing reform of Ohio's tax system.
The most obvious change for most taxpayers will be lower withholding rates, which take effect for pay periods ending on or after Jan. 1, 2008.
The lower withholding rates will increase the take home pay of Ohioans by approximately $350 million during 2008. They represent a 4.2 percent decrease from 2007, and are another step in the phase in of a 21–percent, across–the–board income tax cut that will be complete by 2009.
Overall, 2008 withholding rates will be 16.8 percent lower than they were in 2004 – in line with income tax rates that will also be 16.8 percent lower for the 2008 taxable year (and 2009 filing season). Next year, a family of four earning $60,000 will save about $350 when compared with 2004 tax rates.
"Ohio's new withholding rates mean that taxpayers will be keeping a little more of what they earn in their take home pay this year," Tax Commissioner Richard A. Levin said.
The new income tax rates are part of a package of tax reforms enacted by the Ohio General Assembly in 2005 and embraced by Governor Ted Strickland in his 2008–09 budget proposal.
The reforms also include major changes for business taxes in 2008. Notably, 2008 will be the last year most business owners face a tax on tangible personal property such as machinery, equipment, furniture, fixtures and inventory. In 2008, personal property will be assessed for tax purposes at 6.25 percent of true value, down from 12.5 percent in 2007.
In 2009, personal property assessment rates will fall to zero for most businesses – making Ohio one of just 10 states without a general business tax on tangible personal property.
The tangible personal property of business has been taxed since 1846 in Ohio. But it is disliked by business owners, who have come to see it as a disincentive to investment. During the past 40 years, several major studies of Ohio's tax system have criticized the tax for hurting the state's ability to compete for jobs, particularly in the manufacturing sector.
"The hope is that eliminating this tax will encourage investment in Ohio," Levin said.
Other major changes ahead for the 2008 taxable year:
Another major change for 2008 is designed to benefit military retirees. House Bill 372, which was signed into law on Dec. 20 by Governor Strickland, will exempt military pensions from the state income tax starting on Jan. 1.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio nursing home residents are generally satisfied with the care they receive, according to the results of the 2007 Nursing Home Resident Satisfaction Survey, released today by the Ohio Department of Aging.
The average satisfaction score statewide was 86.2 (out of a possible 100). Of the 955 participating facilities with statistically significant results, 518 scored above the statewide average, earning them a "quality point" in a reimbursement formula used by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services to reward quality in nursing homes.
"There is probably nobody better qualified to rate the quality of care facilities than those who live there and received their services," said Barbara E. Riley, director of the Department of Aging. "Nursing homes are an integral part of the long-term care system in Ohio and we are pleased that many continue to show a commitment to quality care and quality of life for their residents."
The survey was conducted by Vital Research, LLC, under contract with the department. Between July and December, 2007, interviewers trained by Vital Research, Scripps Gerontology Center of Miami University and the Margaret Blenkner Research Institute met face-to-face with more than 24,000 residents to complete the survey. The survey tool was designed by Scripps and the Blenkner Institute. Survey costs were supported by an annual fee paid to the state by facilities.
"We appreciate the time and input from the residents who participated in the survey," said Beverley Laubert, the State Long-term Care Ombudsman, whose office oversaw the survey. "We also appreciate the participation of the facilities and their staff who made such an effort possible. Working together - facilities, residents, families and advocates - we can achieve excellence."
Residents were asked their satisfaction with environment, activities, administration, choices, direct care/nursing assistants, laundry, meals and dining, social services, therapy and laundry, as well as their general satisfaction. Researchers identified two key questions: "Overall, do you like this facility?" and "Would you recommend this facility to a family member or friend?" Twenty-five facilities received a score of 100 on both questions.
The full survey results will be available on the Ohio Long-term Care Consumer Guide Web site (www.ltcohio.org) in early January.
The department simultaneously conducted a similar survey of residential care (assisted living) facility residents - the first statewide consumer satisfaction survey of its type in the nation. Results from that survey will be available on the online consumer guide in February.
In 2008, family members of Ohio nursing facility residents will be surveyed about their satisfaction with the care their loved ones receive. Residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities will be surveyed again in 2009.
The top 25 Ohio nursing homes for resident satisfaction:
Click here to download the complete list of overall scores. PDF
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Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Commerce's Division of Labor & Worker Safety is reminding Ohioans that the state's minimum wage for most employees will increase on January 1, 2008, to $7.00 per hour for non-tipped employees and to $3.50 per hour for tipped employees, plus tips.
Ohio's current minimum wage is $6.85 per hour for non-tipped employees and $3.43 per hour for tipped employees, plus tips.
On January 1, 2008, the increased state minimum wage will apply to employers that annually gross more than $255,000. Currently, Ohio's minimum wage applies to employers that gross more than $250,000 per year.
The constitutional amendment passed by voters in November 2006 states that Ohio's minimum wage shall increase on January 1 of each year by the rate of inflation.
The Ohio minimum wage has a different scale for:
For those workers, the state minimum wage is the same as the federal minimum wage. That rate is currently set at $5.85 per hour and will increase to $6.55 on July 24, 2008.
Information on Ohio's minimum wage as of January 1, 2008, is available at www.com.state.oh.us/laws/pub/MinimumWage.pdf PDF.
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Columbus, Ohio – Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher today announced that six Ohio nonprofit organizations will receive grants totaling $1,051,000 to provide housing-related assistance to 1,657 households with a family member suffering from Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). The grants will be awarded through the Fiscal Year 2007 Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS Program, which is administered by the Ohio Department of Development.
"When Ohioans are faced with life-altering diseases, such as AIDS, it is imperative that assistance is provided to ensure their safety and well-being," said Lt. Governor Lee Fisher, who also serves as Director of the Ohio Department of Development. "The Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS Program allows the State to provide direct assistance toward the housing needs for individuals with and families affected by this disease."
The nonprofit organizations receiving assistance include:
AIDS Resource Center, located in Montgomery County, will receive a $655,700 grant to assist persons living with AIDS in the cities of Dayton, Lima, Mansfield, Marion, and Toledo, as well as the surrounding counties. The funds will enable the award recipient to provide rental, mortgage, and utility assistance to 470 households and supportive services to 720 households.
Area Agency on Aging District 7, Incorporated, located in Gallia County, will receive a $40,500 grant to assist persons living with AIDS in Fayette, Gallia, Jackson, Lawrence, Pike, Ross, and Scioto counties. The funds will enable the award recipient to provide rental, mortgage, and utility assistance to 35 households, supportive services to 10 households, and housing information to 49 households.
Athens AIDS Task Force, located in Athens County, will receive a $57,800 grant to assist persons living with AIDS in Athens, Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Hocking, Meigs, Monroe, Morgan, Muskingum, Noble, Perry, Vinton, and Washington Counties. The funds will enable the award recipient to provide rental, mortgage and utility assistance to 50 households and supportive services to five households.
Community AIDS Network, located in Summit County, will receive a $159,900 grant to assist persons living with AIDS in Portage and Summit counties. The funds will enable the award recipient to provide rental assistance to 60 households and operate two community residences to assist 30 households.
Community Services of Stark County, located in Stark County, will receive a $50,000 grant to assist persons living with AIDS in Carroll, Harrison, Holmes, Stark, Tuscarawas, and Wayne counties. The funds will enable the award recipient to provide rental assistance to 45 households and provide supportive services to 10 households.
Meridian Services, Incorporated, located in Mahoning County, will receive an $87,100 grant to assist persons living with AIDS in Ashtabula, Columbiana, Jefferson, Mahoning, and Trumbull counties. The funds will enable the award recipient to provide rental, mortgage, and utility assistance to 148 households and supportive services to 25 households.
The Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS Program provides eligible nonprofit organizations and local governments with funds to devise long-term, comprehensive strategies to meet the housing and supportive service needs of persons with AIDS. Applications are reviewed based on need, program design, coordination, financial management, and administrative capacity.
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Columbus, Ohio – ODJFS Director Helen Jones-Kelley today announced that 54 newborn babies have been safely surrendered since Ohio's Safe Havens for Newborns law was enacted in April 2001. The figure is based on a recent survey of Ohio's county public children service agencies.
"Ohio's Safe Havens law is designed to protect babies who are unable to protect themselves," ODJFS Director Helen Jones-Kelley said. "The law provides parents with an alternative to abandoning newborns in unsafe places."
The survey of county children services agencies determined that a total of 11 infants were surrendered during State Fiscal Year 2007, which ended June 30, including three in both Cuyahoga and Lucas counties, two in both Lorain and Summit counties and one Wayne County. In SFY 2006, six infants were surrendered in Cuyahoga, Geauga, Hamilton, Lucas, Portage, and Summit counties.
Under the Safe Havens law, a parent (without fear of prosecution) may deliver their unharmed newborn who is not more than 72 hours old, to a medical worker at a hospital, with a peace officer at a law enforcement agency or at an emergency service organization. Parents are not required to provide any personal information but are asked to voluntarily fill-out a medical history questionnaire.
Once a baby has been received by a Safe Havens provider, the newborn will be placed in the custody of a county public children services agency. The agency will then look for an adoptive family.
In order to make the public aware of the Safe Havens law, ODJFS has created a Safe Havens Web site (jfs.ohio.gov/safehavens) and distributed posters, brochures, public service announcements and opinion pieces. Safe Havens information has been distributed to public service agencies and organizations, hospitals, emergency medical services, fire stations, police stations, schools, and media outlets across the state. Individual counties also have played a major role in promoting the program.
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Columbus, Ohio – As we approach the New Year, Ohio EPA encourages you to make a resolution to not take important things like your tap water for granted! Ohio tap water could provide the greatest value purchased all year. At a penny per gallon, it is the most convenient commodity available to Ohioans, and the only one piped directly into homes for immediate use.
A cost comparison demonstrates the value of Ohio tap water. For example:
In considering the value of tap water, it's not only interesting to note that the price is low, and the service high, but there are a lot of professional services included in the price that require specialized training and equipment. There is a complex process involved in producing and delivering safe, clean tap water directly to every home.
Each day, behind the scenes, there is an extensive network of professionals, resources, and equipment working to protect water resources; to provide treatment; to maintain supplies; and deliver safe, clean tap water. Engineers design treatment and the water distribution systems; certified plant operators oversee the treatment and distribution of tap water; mechanics maintain the equipment at the treatment plants and the pipelines that distribute the water; chemists test the water for unwanted contaminants; and Ohio EPA works with your local water supplier to ensure the entire operation operates in compliance with regulations that protect public health. Overall, the public receives a great deal of service from a wide variety of professionals for a very low cost.
For more information, visit Ohio EPA's Web site, at http://www.epa.state.oh.us, and click on the drinking water icon to learn about where your drinking water comes from and what can be done to protect drinking water sources. An interactive tool also can be found to determine whether there are any concerns in your area with local drinking water.
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Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) knows the coming holidays will be a busy time for the state's roads and highways. The department expects holiday traffic to be at its peak the Saturday before Christmas, when Ohio's rural highway traffic volumes could increase by 41 percent over the typical monthly average.
ODOT reminds motorists that during these winter months, travel conditions can change from mile to mile, minute to minute. Before leaving home, find out the latest driving conditions by logging on to www.BuckeyeTraffic.org. Safe drivers know the weather and their limits. If the weather is bad, remember, Ice and Snow...Take it Slow.
While work is suspended in many of the state's construction zones during this time, lane restrictions or detours may still affect your holiday commute. Where possible, ODOT opens additional lanes of traffic and requires contractors to maintain at least two lanes of traffic in each direction on Ohio's interstates. To aid motorists, ODOT is providing this comprehensive list of major state construction projects.
Select construction overview information by regions of Ohio:
Central | Eastern | Northeast | Northwest |
| Southwest | Southern | Southeast | Western
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio's winter moratorium announced today is welcome news for residential consumers, the Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel (OCC) said. Today, the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) ordered the moratorium in response to yesterday's request by Governor Ted Strickland that it consider the ban on shutting off customers' heating sources during this winter heating season. The moratorium will apply to customers at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guideline, however the PUCO indicated it will look at raising the level which would help more customers.
Even with the moratorium, consumers will still need to eventually pay their bills and many may need to work out a payment plan or have questions or complaints. The OCC is urging residential consumers to call its hotline and take advantage of its free services.
"We applaud the Governor's actions to protect consumers and we are pleased the PUCO quickly responded to ensure that struggling consumers will have heat when they need it most," said Janine Migden-Ostrander, Consumers' Counsel. "Given that natural gas prices have doubled over the last several years, we hope the PUCO will raise the eligibility to 200 percent of the poverty level, or even higher.
"Consumers will likely need help this winter and can contact our office to answer questions, respond to service quality complaints, assist with payment arrangements and provide energy efficiency tips," she said.
The toll-free statewide hotline, 1-877-PICKOCC (1-877-742-5622), connects Ohioans to the OCC, their residential utility consumer advocate. Representatives are available Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. An automated informational voicemail service is available 24 hours a day.
In addition to the toll-free number, consumers can reach consumer service representatives by sending requests or questions to occ@occ.state.oh.us, visiting the Web site at www.pickocc.org or by writing to Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel, 10 W. Broad Street, 18th floor, Columbus, Ohio 43215.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Department of Insurance Director Mary Jo Hudson has announced that on average Ohioans paid slightly more for homeowners insurance in 2005 than in 2004. Despite the slight increase, Ohio's homeowners insurance premiums improved to the 6th lowest in the country, up from 7th lowest in 2004. The news comes based on a report issued by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).
"A competitive market assures lower insurance premiums for all Ohioans," Director Hudson said. "The Department will continue to monitor these markets, and also assure that Ohioans have access to competitive coverage."
Statistics in the NAIC report show that Ohioans paid an average homeowners insurance premium of $545 in 2005. In 2004, the average homeowners insurance premium was $530. Those figures are far lower than the national average homeowners insurance premium of $767, up from $734 in 2004.
Changes in homeowners insurance premiums can be attributed to building and material costs as well as weather-related claims.
Ohio insurance consumers with questions and concerns about their insurance can call the Department's consumer hotline at 1-800-686-1526. Free information can also be obtained at www.ohioinsurance.gov.
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today launched Connect Ohio, a public-private partnership that will help expand broadband services across the state by working with local communities and providers to map gaps in access.
"The digital divide in Ohio takes many forms - from lack of access to computers and broadband services to a lack of technological skills necessary for the jobs of the future," Strickland said. "The goal of Connect Ohio is to create customized support for local communities to meet their individual technological needs while helping expand broadband service to all residents and businesses."
Connect Ohio Initiatives, LLC, is a subsidiary of Connected Nation and will operate as a non-profit with a headquarters in Columbus. Connect Ohio's three-year strategy involves a partnership between the state and broadband providers to create detailed maps of broadband coverage in order to accurately pinpoint remaining gaps in broadband availability in Ohio.
Connect Ohio will also work to establish public-private partnerships that will assist in supplying computers to areas that have broadband service but lack computer access.
"The Ohio Cable Telecommunications Association and its member companies commend Governor Strickland's goal of encouraging broadband deployment to areas of the state currently underserved by Internet access providers," said Jonathon McGee, executive director of the Ohio Cable Telecommunications Association.
"Connect Ohio is the first true public-private partnership dedicated solely to expanding our broadband network in Ohio," said Charles Moses, president of the Ohio Telecom Association. "We believe Connect Ohio will identify gaps in broadband access and usage and create specific local plans to address the needs of individual communities. OTA member companies have a long history of investment in Ohio and remain committed to developing the finest telecommunications network possible."
The Connect Ohio model is based on community-specific needs, allowing private providers, the state and community partners to develop customized plans for broadband service in their areas. Connect Ohio will conduct annual, quantitative surveys on the use of and access to broadband services and computing applications. Using this data, teams in each county will analyze the situation in their community to determine the necessary level of support and technical guidance needed to expand access.
The local expansion efforts will boost the supply of broadband consumers and create a growing demand for broadband services across Ohio.
"We look forward to partnering with the cable and telecommunications industries and their workers to build demand for their services and deploy broadband to areas of the state that are currently underserved," Strickland said.
The executive director of Connect Ohio will hire staff members, including regional program managers to build teams and facilitate local planning. The Ohio Office of Information Technology, in collaboration with the Ohio Broadband Council, will oversee Connect Ohio's work.
The state cost for the program is estimated to be $2.9 million in the 2008-2009 biennium and $3.9 million in the 2010-2011 biennium.
"Under the Connect Ohio strategy, broadband providers will realize new possibilities in expansion and Ohioans will have quick and affordable access to high-speed internet service," Strickland said. "This, in turn, brings the state closer to establishing the technological infrastructure we need to be successful and competitive."
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Columbus, Ohio – It might be the season of giving, but a new survey shows a majority of Americans are actually worried about what might be taken from them. According to new research by the Ohio Department of Insurance and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), 57 percent of U.S. adults say they are concerned about being a victim of identity theft during the holiday season and 66 percent believe they are more at risk when making purchases online.
"Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States, affecting consumers of all ages," said Mary Jo Hudson, Director of the Ohio Department of Insurance. "It's critical for consumers to know how to protect themselves and reduce the risk of becoming a victim. Repairing the damages caused by identity theft can be a lengthy, financially straining process. Taking precautions can save time, money and stress during the busy holiday shopping season and year-round."
The NAIC's national survey, which polled a nationally representative sample of 500 adults, age 18 and older, from Nov. 16-22, 2007, also shows:
Understanding the Basics of Identity Theft
According to the Federal Trade Commission, 8.3 million Americans were victims of identity theft in 2005. Identity theft, sometimes referred to as identity fraud, is a crime that involves someone using your personal information such as your name, Social Security number, credit card number or other financial account information - without your permission to commit fraud and/or other crimes.
Identity theft occurs in many forms, such as someone using your stolen personal information to apply for loans or purchase items using your credit card number, along with many other fraudulent activities.
The Ohio Department of Insurance offers the following tips to help consumers protect their identity:
Ohio insurance consumers with questions and concerns about their insurance can call the Department's consumer hotline at 1-800-686-1526. Free information can also be obtained at www.ohioinsurance.gov.
More identity theft information can be found at the Ohio Attorney General's web site, http://www.ag.state.oh.us/.
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Reynoldsburg, Ohio – Ohioans can start planning visits to fairs for the 2008 season as the Ohio Department of Agriculture today released the official dates for Ohio's 94 county and independent fairs and the Ohio State Fair.
The Paulding County Fair will kick off the 2008 fairs on June 17, and the season will conclude Oct. 11 with the Fairfield County Fair. The complete 2008 schedule is posted on the department's Web site at www.ohioagriculture.gov in the "News" section.
In addition to setting and approving the dates for the independent and county fairs, the department is also responsible for helping to assure the safety of fair amusement rides, for monitoring livestock shows to help assure honest competition, and for coordinating animal health efforts with designated local veterinarians.
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland recently directed the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) to begin the process of attaining third-party certification for Ohio's state forests, assuring the continued health of these woodlands while recognizing them as management models for the state's nearly 400,000 woodland owners.
"Since the early 1900s when our state first set aside land for the perpetual growing and harvesting of trees, state forests have provided unique recreational activities, as well as great beauty," Strickland said. "Our 20 state forests represent a great conservation story and we are working to further secure their future by affirming their good management through a third party certification process."
The ODNR Division of Forestry will seek certification through two internationally recognized organizations - the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). The SFI integrates principles of environmental protection, while the FSC promotes responsible forest stewardship worldwide.
Third-party certification involves an audit process of current management practices and provides guidelines for internationally recognized standards of forest sustainability.
"We are confident that our historic and current forest management practices already comply with most standards of forest certification," said David Lytle, state forester and chief of the ODNR Division of Forestry. "By attaining certification, however, we can demonstrate to Ohioans that our management approach meets or exceeds a rigorous set of standards, and that the Division is committed to conserving Ohio's forest resources for current and future generations. In addition, this new approach will allow the Division to look more closely at outcomes of forest management not only in the 20 individual state forests, but across the entire state forest system, as well."
An additional benefit of state forest certification is that it will provide greater access to third-party certified timber for the state's $15 billion wood products industry. Increasing the local supply of certified wood products will help Ohio's industry remain competitive as the global demand for wood from sustainably managed forests grows.
The harvesting, milling and manufacture of wood into paper, furniture and wood products employs more than 119,000 Ohioans and contributes $15 billion to the state's economy. Forest-based tourism and recreation create countless more jobs, add millions of dollars to the state's economy and enhances its overall quality of life.
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Columbus, Ohio – As we begin the final countdown to Christmas, people are scrambling to finish shopping and check off their holiday to-do lists. The Ohio Department of Public Safety (ODPS) is reminding motorists of one more checklist item: a designated driver. Without a designated driver, the holidays can turn tragic all too quickly. The holiday season can be one of the most dangerous times of the year due to an increase in impaired driving. Last year in Ohio, 41 people died in alcohol-related crashes between Thanksgiving and New Year's. Nationally, in December of 2006, 1,076 people were killed in alcohol-related traffic crashes.
"Whether you've had way too many or just one too many, drunk driving is absolutely not worth the risk," said ODPS Director Henry Guzmán. "It is deadly serious and against the law. If you drive drunk this holiday season, you will be arrested."
ODPS and its safety partners across the state expect a large number of people to be traveling to and from holiday parties between now and the end of the year, especially this coming weekend. As part of a national holiday enforcement blitz, ODPS' Governor's Highway Safety Office (GHSO) is assisting OVI (operating a vehicle while impaired) Task Forces around the state in coordinating efforts to step up enforcement of traffic and impaired driving laws. The GHSO also promotes educational programs, coalition-building efforts and public information campaigns focused on highway safety as well as funding the Task Forces and local efforts.
In addition to the more than 70 local law enforcement agencies stepping up enforcement efforts through sobriety checkpoints and roving patrols, the Ohio State Highway Patrol will also have a visible presence on the state's highways.
"In drawing this year to a close, I want to thank our state's motorists for contributing greatly to the success of making Ohio a safer state," Colonel Richard H. Collins, Ohio State Highway Patrol superintendent, said. "Please plan ahead, make responsible decisions and help others do the same, and buckle up so we can make this a happy and safe holiday season on Ohio roadways. And remember, to receive highway help from the Ohio State Highway Patrol, dial 1-877-7-PATROL for assistance."
Designating a sober driver and not letting friends drive drunk are just two simple steps to help avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for impaired driving. All drivers and occupants are also encouraged to buckle up, every trip, every time because a seatbelt is the best defense against a drunk driver.
"Saving lives on our roads is a top priority and we need everyone's help to do it," Guzmán said. "This holiday season; don't let your year end in an arrest, or even worse, death. Make smart decisions, so you can assure a safe way home."
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Columbus, Ohio – There is still time to be vaccinated against influenza. The flu typically peaks in January or later, which is why now may be the perfect time for a flu shot. A flu shot is the single best way to protect yourself and the people you love from getting the flu. Even if influenza has already hit your community, you can still benefit from vaccination.
"While the flu vaccine is important for all age groups, it is especially important that seniors 65 years and older get vaccinated because they are more likely to become sicker and experience complications if they do get sick," said Barbara E. Riley, director of the Ohio Department of Aging. "Seniors should make every effort to get vaccinated, especially since Medicare Part B covers the full cost of the shot."
Millions of Americans age 50 and older are in danger of catching the flu this season. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only 36 percent of adults age 50-64, and about 60 percent of those 65 and older, are vaccinated against influenza each year.
A vaccination greatly decreases your chance of getting the flu and can lessen symptoms if you do get sick. Unvaccinated people are not only increasing their chances of getting sick, they are also increasing their chances of passing along the influenza virus to their parents, spouses, children, grandchildren, friends and co-workers.
The flu, which can include symptoms such as high fever, headache, coughing, nausea, weakness and muscle aches, can easily spread from person to person when an infected person coughs or sneezes near others.
"The flu shot is safe, effective and cannot cause the flu," added Riley. "Different viruses circulate each season, so it's critical to get a flu vaccine every year."
Flu vaccinations are available from a wide variety of sources, including your physician, county board of health, groceries and pharmacies. Contact your area agency on aging at 1-866-243-5678 for help finding resources in your community.
About ODA
The Ohio Department of Aging provides leadership for the delivery of services and supports that improve and promote quality of life and personal choice for older Ohioans, adults with disabilities, their families and their caregivers. Working with 12 area agencies on aging and other community partners, the department offers home- and community-based Medicaid waiver programs such as PASSPORT, the long-term care ombudsman program, the Golden Buckeye Card and more. Visit www.goldenbuckeye.com.
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Columbus, Ohio – Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher today announced the opening of the Ohio Film Office which is housed within the Ohio Department of Development's Division of Travel and Tourism. The opening of the office coincides with the hiring of Christina Grozik who begins work this week as Director of the Film Office.
"Christina's industry savvy, relentless drive, and her critical and creative eye for thoughtful and compelling film projects serve as the perfect springboard for driving the Ohio Film Office," said Lt. Governor Lee Fisher, who also serves as the Director of the Ohio Department of Development. "I can think of no better advocate for attracting and developing Ohio projects than Christina."
Grozik's initial focus will be re-establishing the state office with a plan to market Ohio to film makers and commercial production agencies, conducting industry stakeholder meetings and working with the film industry to create an Ohio Film Advisory Council.
In the meantime, a Web site has been set up at www.DiscoverOhioFilm.com for members of Ohio's media production industry to submit their contact information. The resulting contact list will be used to send out additional details and information from the Ohio Film Office as it becomes available.
Prior to joining the Ohio Department of Development to head up the Film Office, Grozik was working as a freelance producer and marketing consultant. Her production resume includes projects ranging from music videos to documentaries and feature films to reality television for high profile clients including: Warner Bros., Disney, Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures, High Noon Entertainment, HGTV, VH-1, Discovery Channel and, more. Having worked as a producer, director, casting assistant, and production liaison, Grozik brings to the Ohio Film Office a broad range of skills and understanding of all aspects of the media production industry.
Christina also is a former vice president of the Greater Cleveland Film Commission where she co-founded the Cleveland Entertainment Conference after recognizing the need to educate and unify the local independent film community.
"We were very fortunate to attract someone as experienced and qualified as Christina to head up the Ohio Film Office," said State Tourism Director Amir Eylon. "The Ohio Film Office will provide new opportunities to promote Ohio's travel and tourism locales and sites."
While Ohio has Film Commissions in Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati, there has been no state Film Office since 2002 when it was eliminated due to departmental budget cuts.
Governor Strickland and Lt. Governor Fisher proposed the reestablishment of the Ohio Film Office in the state budget and the Film Office was legislated back into existence earlier this year based on the potential of jobs and economic impact resulting from the film, commercial, and video production industries.
"The vision behind the Ohio Film Office is to provide a resource for our burgeoning filmmakers and to promote Ohio as an ample platform for meaningful, thought-provoking, and quality entertainment projects," said Lt. Governor Lee Fisher. "Our Ohio Film Office will closely partner with our excellent city film commissions to draw from their region's strengths to contribute to our common goal."
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Columbus, Ohio – As called for in the biennial budget, Governor Ted Strickland today signed an executive order establishing the Executive Medicaid Management Administration (EMMA), an independent state office that will coordinate the management and implementation of the Ohio Medicaid program across state agencies.
"In order to provide the best value to Ohio taxpayers, we must improve the way the Medicaid program is administered," Strickland said. "The Executive Medicaid Management Administration will ensure that Medicaid services are coordinated and delivered efficiently and cost effectively."
Because of its size, several agencies currently share responsibility for Ohio's Medicaid program, which has resulted in fragmentation of the program's policies and processes.
EMMA will work to facilitate efficiency in Medicaid programs and operations and eliminate duplicate functions. In addition, EMMA will facilitate Ohio's compliance with federal Medicaid regulations, avoid conflicting policy decisions and maximize federal funding by making timely and effective decisions.
Strickland has appointed Cristal Thomas as the executive director for EMMA. Thomas currently serves as the assistant director of Ohio Health Plans at the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. As executive director of EMMA, she will be a member of the governor's Cabinet.
Thomas will be responsible for developing a governance structure for EMMA, preparing an operating budget for the office and providing strategic direction and management for major Medicaid policies and functions.
The executive director and her staff will work directly with a council of Cabinet-agency partners to implement EMMA's responsibilities.
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services will continue to serve as the state's single Medicaid agency. Federal law requires one state agency to assume responsibility for Medicaid grants and waivers, administer the state Medicaid plan, and ensure that all activities are conducted in line with federal laws and regulations.
EMMA will be required to submit an annual report to the governor and legislative leaders updating them on its progress.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio's State Chief Information Officer Steve Edmonson announced today the selection of powerful data encryption software to increase the security of state of Ohio data regardless of the device on which it is stored – a laptop, personal computer, personal digital assistant, memory stick, smart phone, DVD or CD.
Working with a task force of 37 information technology professionals representing 30 state agencies, the Ohio Department of Administrative Services' (DAS) Office of Information Technology (OIT) combined the data security requirements of agencies statewide and chose SafeBoot software as the best and most cost-effective solution to Ohio's data security needs.
"The task force did an exemplary job of outlining and consolidating security requirements in a very tight time frame," Edmonson said. "It was a tremendous effort. Based on their work, OIT was able to expedite the selection of the best-suited product and negotiate a contract that will benefit everyone."
The purchasing power of the state was leveraged to negotiate a contract with SafeBoot that will result in cost avoidance of approximately $3.7 million compared to agencies purchasing similar products on their own.
The total does not include additional savings that will be realized by other government agencies. The special pricing negotiated by the state can be taken advantage of by city and county governments, colleges and universities and K-12 schools throughout Ohio by utilizing DAS' cooperative purchasing program.
"The bottom line is tax dollars are being used wisely through this selection and the negotiated contract," Edmonson said. "The extension of SafeBoot contract-pricing ensures that Ohio schools and all levels of government can purchase the best data security at the best price."
Gartner, a leading international IT research and advisory firm, considers SafeBoot among the best encryption and access control technologies. SafeBoot protects data, personal computing and mobile storage devices against compromises caused by unauthorized access and theft. About 60,000 licenses for the software are expected to be ordered. DAS and the cross-agency task force will continue to work together to implement SafeBoot on state devices in coming months.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland has issued the following proclamation in honor of Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day and has ordered all state flags at public buildings and grounds to be flown at half–staff from sunrise to sunset on Friday. President George W. Bush has directed the U.S. flag to be lowered.
PEARL HARBOR REMEMBRANCE DAY
December 7, 2007
Each December we remember what President Franklin Delano Roosevelt called "a day that will live in infamy."
On the morning of December 7th, 1941, the Japanese naval forces of the First Imperial Fleet, augmented by aviation elements of the Japanese Air Force, launched an unprovoked attack against United States forces stationed at the Pearl Harbor military facilities in Hawaii.
This surprise attack resulted in the outright loss, or damage, to 347 of the 394 aircraft parked at the Hickam, Wheeler, and Bellows airfields, the sinking or serious damage of 18 of the 96 sailing vessels in the harbor, the deaths of 2,403 military members, and the wounding of well over a thousand more.
The people of Ohio joined with their countrymen in responding to this attack. On December 8th, 1941, war was declared by the United States upon the Empire of Japan and on the other Axis Powers, Germany and Italy, four days later.
This surprise attack on U.S. Forces at Pearl Harbor is known as the catalyst for the involvement of some twenty six million brave Americans and our Allies in the successful prosecution of World War II.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, TED STRICKLAND, Governor of the State of Ohio, do hereby proclaim Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, December 7, 2007 and I hereby order, by the authority vested in me as Governor of the State of Ohio by the Ohio Constitution, that the flag of 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, December 7th, 2007. I ask all Ohioans to join in recognizing the historical significance of the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, and pause in memory of the brave individuals that defended us on that day.
ON THIS SIXTH DAY OF DECEMBER, TWO THOUSAND SEVEN
Ted Strickland
Governor
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland announced today that the Governor's Office of Faith–Based and Community Initiatives has launched Feed Ohio – an initiative to increase the number of Summer Food Service Program sites in Ohio by assisting with start–up and programming costs.
"During the summer, nearly 500,000 Ohio children are at risk of hunger because they no longer receive free or reduced–cost meals at school," Strickland said. "We hope that by offering these grants we break the cost barrier associated with establishing summer food sites."
Currently, less than 20 percent of eligible Ohio children participate in the Summer Food Service Program due to lack of parental knowledge of the program, lack of sponsors and host sites, and financial challenges in setting up a site. The Feed Ohio grant program will work with community partners to eliminate these barriers and fill a gap in funding for the sites.
The Ohio Summer Food Service Program is administered by the Ohio Department of Education, which provides training and site certification. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reimburses sponsors and sites for food and other expenses. The grants offered by the GOFBCI are intended for start–up and enrichment costs for the program.
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services serves as the fiscal agent for the grant distribution. Applications will be accepted until January 11, and awards will be issued on February 4.
"No child should go hungry in Ohio," Strickland said. "I urge organizations statewide to consider hosting or expanding a summer food program site and taking advantage of the financial assistance available."
For more information on the Summer Food Service Program, Feed Ohio grants, and how to start a site, please visit:
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Columbus, Ohio – State Fire Marshal Michael P. Bell today reminded Ohioans that properly placed and functioning smoke detectors double the chances of escaping a residential fire. This reminder comes following several fatal fires in Ohio over the past two weeks.
"We have seen tragic reminders from all over the state during the past two weeks of how important it is to have smoke detectors in our homes," said Marshal Bell. "Seconds matter in a fire and a working smoke detector could provide that valuable time needed to escape."
Since November 24, fires in Ashtabula, Columbus, Shaker Heights, Toledo, Troy, Violet Township and West Chester have claimed the lives of 13 Ohioans, including eight children. In each of these fires, smoke detectors weren't present, didn't function properly or were placed in an ineffective location. Almost 90 percent of Ohio's civilian fire deaths occurred in homes that had no functioning smoke detector. The most common cause of a non-functioning smoke detector is due to the removal of the battery for an alternate use.
"Smoke detectors are a small, but life saving investment for your home," said Violet Township Fire Chief Kenn Taylor. "With the holidays approaching, I would encourage everyone to consider giving smoke detectors as gifts."
Marshal Bell offers the following tips regarding smoke detectors:
Many local fire departments have programs to assist families that can't afford smoke detectors.
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Columbus, Ohio – Due to an increase in predatory sales practices associated with the sale of annuities, the Ohio Department of Insurance is alerting seniors about how to avoid becoming a victim, Insurance Director Mary Jo Hudson announced.
The Department has recently received information that some agents are "churning" business by encouraging their senior clients to replace an old annuity product with a new annuity product that allegedly offers a higher rate of return. In many cases, the replacement is unnecessary and the senior citizen could face high surrender charges and fees if they need to withdraw money from the annuity. Since there are substantial commission rates associated with the sale of annuity products, some agents may recommend an unsuitable product to a senior for their own personal gain.
"Ohioans need to carefully review any insurance product they are considering and consult a trusted advisor or the Ohio Department of Insurance at 1-800-686-1526 with any questions," Director Mary Jo Hudson said. "We are closely watching the marketplace to assure Ohio-licensed insurance agents are selling suitable annuity products to seniors."
Rules that became effective in March 2007 give the Department more regulatory authority and oversight over the sale of annuity products. Not only were suitability standards put in place, the new rules clearly provide Ohio-licensed insurance companies and agents with an outline of what is considered appropriate annuity sales conduct.
Under the new guidelines:
Consumers may be deceived in many ways. While anyone can be a victim, seniors remain a prime target.
To avoid being a victim of a predatory sales practice, consumers should be weary of:
Important consumer shopping tips:
Report a violation:
If you suspect you've been a victim of deceptive sales practices, or you have a specific question and can't get the answers you need from an agent or the insurance company, contact the Ohio Department of Insurance at 1-800-686-1527 with detailed information about the agent and product. Please call the Department at 1-800-686-1526 with questions about annuities.
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Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Education (ODE) today announced that 135 Ohio teachers have joined the ranks of National Board Certified Teachers (NBCT), the highest credential in the teaching profession.
National Board Certification is a voluntary assessment program designed to recognize and reward great teachers and make them better. NBCTs have demonstrated advanced teaching knowledge, skills and practices. They achieve certification through a rigorous, performance-based assessment that takes one to three years to complete. The process measures what accomplished teachers and school counselors should know and be able to do.
Susan Tave Zelman, superintendent of public instruction, praised the new board-certified teachers for their commitment to excellence.
"These teachers are leaders in our education community. They join an elite group of professionals who have demonstrated their dedication and commitment to quality teaching in their classrooms," Zelman said. "I encourage other teachers to undertake this rigorous and rewarding experience and urge school administrators to support them in their efforts to achieve this designation."
Ohio ranks fifth nationwide in the total number (2,757) of National Board Certified Teachers. The number of Ohio teachers achieving the designation has more than doubled in the past six years (from 1,334 in 2001). Nationwide, nearly 64,000 teachers have achieved the designation.
Candidates must submit portfolios of student work, classroom videotapes, evaluations and other documentation to affirm their knowledge of the subject they teach, as well as their ability to teach effectively and measure student learning.
The process also includes a comprehensive exam focusing on classroom practices, student assessment and the teacher's subject area. Certification candidates must hold a bachelor's degree and have at least three years of classroom experience.
Ohio teachers who achieved National Board Certification this year will receive an incentive of $2,500 a year for 10 years through an act of the Ohio General Assembly.
For a list of Ohio's new National Board Certified Teachers, visit http://www.ode.state.oh.us and search keyword: National Board Certified.
For more information about National Board Certification, visit http://www.nbpts.org
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Columbus, Ohio – Various cars, trucks and vans will be available for purchase at the state of Ohio surplus vehicle auction Saturday, Dec. 8.
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 10 a.m. The sale will be conducted by Cassel & Associates.
A variety of cargo vans, Ford Crown Victoria cars, Dodge Ram pickup trucks and a Jaguar are among the vehicles up for auction. To view the vehicles please visit: das.ohio.gov/gsd/propfac/surplus/nextauction.htm.
Vehicles may be inspected from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. today through Dec. 7. Vehicles may only be started from 8 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Dec. 7. All vehicles are sold as is with no warranty. Thirty-day temporary tags will be available for purchase on site for $10 cash.
A deposit of at least 25 percent of the total purchase price must be paid on the day of the auction with the remaining balance paid in full by Monday, Dec. 10. Cash, cashier's check, business or personal checks and credit cards are accepted. Cassel & Associates must approve all methods of payment other than cash.
All purchased vehicles must be picked up by Friday, Dec. 14.
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 about $1.8 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 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, including payment options and directions, contact Jeff Scanlan at (614) 466-2670 or visit the State and Federal Surplus Services Web site at www.ohio.gov/surplus.
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Reynoldsburg, Ohio – As cold weather sets in and fires start burning, the Ohio Department of Agriculture urges Ohioans to work with reputable companies and remember a few basic tips when purchasing firewood to heat their homes.
Ohio law requires firewood dealers to sell non-packaged firewood by the cord or by fractions of a cord. Bulk firewood can also be purchased by weight, in ton measurements, if it is weighed on a certified scale. Law prohibits any other unit of measurement such as rick, rack, face cord, or truckload. "Truckload" portions vary from dealer to dealer and can be misleading to consumers, who often buy wood in order to cut their heating bills.
Consumers can avoid ambiguous measurements by purchasing wood by the cord, half-cord, or quarter-cord. A cord is 128 cubic feet. When a cord is properly stacked, it should be as large as a stack that is 8 feet long by 4 feet high and 4 feet wide. Consumers should contact the seller immediately if they do not receive the quantity purchased.
Buyers should understand basic firewood terms and rules to ensure they receive what was advertised. If firewood is sold as "seasoned," then it must have moisture content lower than 50 percent. Unseasoned wood produces only two-thirds of the heat of seasoned wood. In addition, if a seller claims the wood is a specific type, the delivered load must contain at least 90 percent of that species.
Before moving firewood this winter, homeowners should also be aware of the state's Emerald Ash Borer quarantine, restricting the movement of firewood in 34 counties. Firewood often is home to invasive insects and diseases and is a major contributor to the spread of these destructive pests. As a result, the department has quarantined areas of the state to limit the movement of infested firewood. Violators of the quarantine can face fines up to $4,000. For a list of Ohio's quarantined counties, go to www.ohioagriculture.gov/eab or call 1-888-OHIO-EAB.
The agriculture department and 90 local weights and measures jurisdictions are responsible for enforcing Ohio's laws regulating firewood sales. If a problem occurs with a firewood sale, and the seller will not correct the problem, consumers can contact the department's Division of Weights and Measures at 1-800-282-1955 or their local weights and measures inspector in the county's auditor's office.