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Columbus, Ohio – September is National Preparedness Month, a nationwide effort encouraging Americans to take steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses and schools. Today, Ohio Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Gregory L. Wayt joined Ohio Department of Public Safety (ODPS) Director Henry Guzmán, and executive directors from ODPS' Ohio Emergency Management Agency and Ohio Homeland Security to launch the 2008 National Preparedness Month campaign in Ohio.
Preparedness partners from Ohio Department of Insurance, Franklin County Dog Shelter, Ohio Grocer's Association, Ohio Board of Regents, Ohio Homeland Security's Multicultural Relations Office and Ohio Emergency Management Agency also attended the event to represent each area of preparedness.
During National Preparedness Month, ODPS, through Ohio Homeland Security, is coordinating a statewide campaign with national, state and local partners to highlight the importance of emergency preparedness and to promote community involvement.
"This year's campaign will build upon the success of past campaigns and relationships we have been developing with partners as part of our everyday business," said ODPS Director Henry Guzmán. "We are working to strengthen those relationships to engage families, schools, businesses and all of Ohio's diverse communities to ensure that everyone in Ohio can be prepared to respond to an urgent situation."
Getting the word out is critical to encouraging all Ohioans to make an emergency plan and be informed about the types of emergencies that could occur in their communities and their appropriate responses. In addition to schools, businesses, multicultural communities and homes/families, ODPS and partners are working to educate the public to include pets, older Americans and those individuals with disabilities and special needs in their preparedness plans.
ODPS' preparedness Web site, www.ready.ohio.gov contains resources to help Ohioans make a plan, put together an emergency kit and share information with families, coworkers and neighbors. It also includes information for businesses, older Americans, people with disabilities, pets, weather disasters and multicultural needs. Everyone is encouraged to log on to the Web site, sign up as a partner in preparedness or simply learn more about how to be prepared. Preparing makes sense. Get ready now.
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Columbus, Ohio – Consumers are encouraged to examine their local telephone bills to find out if they are paying for products or services they never intended to purchase, the Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel (OCC) said today.
The OCC issued a similar warning in June 2006 after some consumers throughout the country noticed charges on their monthly telephone bills for services such as enhanced voicemail, emergency roadside assistance or Web page hosting. Consumers claimed they never authorized the charges, some of which may have resulted from providing their telephone numbers and other personal information while browsing the Internet.
Since local telephone companies often have billing and collection agreements with other companies, charges from third-party companies may appear on customers' bills.
"In today's economy, the last thing consumers need is to have charges they never authorized appear on their telephone bill," said Janine Migden-Ostrander, Consumers' Counsel. "We recommend that consumers pay close attention while surfing the Internet and read any fine print carefully, especially when personal information is requested. Each month, consumers should review their monthly telephone bill to make sure unintended charges have not been added."
Reading the fine print and understanding the details is critical since consumers are often bombarded with requests for personal information. However, if no disclosure is made to customers, they may become a victim of "cramming," which is unlawful and occurs when a company adds a product or service to telephone bills without authorization.
The OCC recommends that consumers consider the following tips:
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Columbus, Ohio – In connection with National Preparedness Month, State Fire Marshal Michael P. Bell encourages Ohio's college students, parents, landlords and school administrators to take preventive measures and recognize fire risks that could save lives and property.
"College is often the first time many students are responsible for all aspects of their daily living, including their own personal safety," said Marshal Bell. "Following proper fire safety procedures can help college students focus on the positive aspects of college life."
Marshal Bell said a fire safety and prevention program is essential for incoming and new students, as well as for off-campus organizations which provide housing. "Practicing fire safety at all times, whether in dormitories or off-campus housing, can mean the difference between life and death," said Marshal Bell.
According to Campus Firewatch, there have been 129 campus-related fire fatalities since January, 2000. This includes residence hall, off-campus and Greek student housing. According to the organization, over 83 percent of the campus-related fire fatalities have occurred in off-campus housing. Common factors in a number of these fires include missing or disabled smoke alarms, careless disposal of smoking materials and impaired judgment from alcohol consumption.
Marshal Bell encourages students to:
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today issued a Writ of Election to hold a special election on November 18, 2008 for the congressional seat vacated by the tragic loss of Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones. A primary election, if needed, would be held on October 14, 2008.
"While I recognize the costs that would be associated with a special election, my staff has carefully reviewed this situation and concluded that the U.S. Constitution requires me to call one," Strickland said. "My staff has also reached out to Attorney General Nancy Rogers, and she concurs. Put simply, in ACLU v. Taft, the U.S. 6th Circuit Court of Appeals made it clear that a governor has a 'mandatory' obligation to issue a Writ of Election when a congressional seat is vacated. The court has said that every district should have representation, even when Congress isn't expected to be in session, because Congress may need to hold unexpected, but important, votes at any time. Such a clear ruling in Ohio's federal appeals court makes it extremely unlikely, in my judgment, that Ohio would prevail in a legal challenge if we decided not to call for an election in this case."
Following is the text of the Writ of Election:
On Friday, August 22, 2008, I received official notice of the death of Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones, Representative for the Eleventh Congressional District of Ohio.
Article I, Section 2 of the United States Constitution and Ohio Revised Code Section 3521.03 provide that upon receipt of satisfactory information that a vacancy has occurred in the office of Representative to Congress, the Governor shall issue a Writ of Election directing that a special election be held to fill the vacancy. Ohio Revised Code Section 3513.32 further provides that a primary election preceding a special election shall be held, if necessary.
Accordingly, I hereby direct the Board of Election in the Eleventh Congressional District of Ohio to hold a special election on Tuesday, November 18, 2008, to fill such vacancy. Further, if necessary, the Board of Election shall hold a primary election preceding the special election on Tuesday, October 14, 2008. The Board of Election shall provide proper notice of these elections as directed by Ohio Revised Code Section 3513.32.
Issued this 27th day of August, 2008.
Ted Strickland
Governor State of Ohio
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Overall student performance in Ohio continues to improve, according to the 2007-2008 report cards results released today by the Ohio Department of Education.
"Overall results show that educators are working hard and making significant progress in helping all students meet the high expectations of our educational system," said Susan Tave Zelman, superintendent of public instruction. "We are proud to see more districts and schools receiving higher designations this year."
Ohio's Successes
The statewide average of all students' test scores – the performance index score – has increased by more than 25 percent since it was introduced in 1999-2000, from 73.7 to 92.3. This performance index measures the achievement of every tested student, not just those who score proficient or higher. This year, more than half of school districts improved their performance index scores over last year.
In addition, more districts and schools than ever are designated as Effective or higher. This reflects almost 85 percent of school districts and almost 70 percent of school buildings. These figures include 74 districts and 158 schools that have earned the new Excellent with Distinction designation. The Excellent with Distinction rating is achieved by districts and schools that otherwise would have been rated Excellent, but exceeded the value-added standard for the second consecutive year. For the third year in a row, Ohio has no district in Academic Emergency.
Ohio's graduation rate for 2006-2007 (the most recent year of available data) is 86.9 percent. For eight of the past 10 years, the state's graduation rate has increased, up from 79.8 percent in 1996-1997.
The Ohio Achievement Tests (OAT) measure the proficiency level of students in reading and mathematics in grades three through eight, in science and social studies in grades five and eight, and in writing in grades four and seven. The OATs are given in addition to the five Ohio Graduation Test subjects.
In the second year of social studies tests, scores improved. For example, the percent of students proficient or above increased by 6.9 points in fifth grade and 4.2 points in eighth grade.
However, third-grade mathematics scores declined by more than five points, and in fifth-grade reading, scores declined by more than seven points. Looking at results over time can help smooth out these expected year-to-year variations. Even with this year's decline, more than 79 percent of third-grade students are proficient in mathematics compared to 70.4 percent in 2004-2005.
Measuring Progress
The 2007-2008 school year is the first year that the value-added measure is part of Ohio's report card system. Value-added measures the progress districts and schools have made with their students even though the students may not have met the proficiency standard. The results can help teachers pinpoint problems and determine successes.
"Our value-added results recognize that districts and schools may be making significant improvement even though they have not met the proficiency target," said Zelman. "Where test scores demonstrate one point in time, this measure shows how much progress is made over time."
Value-added results are calculated for grades four through eight in reading and mathematics, and a composite result also is available for each district andmost school buildings . The results show whether a district or school meets, exceeds or is below one year of growth for its students. More than 68 percent of school districts and 56 percent of schools met or exceeded the expected gains on the value-added measure.
A district or school that achieves a composite result of "above expected growth" for two consecutive years may increase its rating by one category. This year, 160 districts and 394 schools increased their rating because of the value-added measure. Beginning with the 2008-2009 report cards, districts and schools that show "below expected growth" for three consecutive years will have their designation reduced.
The federal No Child Left Behind Act requires states to hold districts and schools accountable for the achievement of each student group, including racial and ethnic groups, low income students, limited English proficient students and students with disabilities. The Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) measure can indicate whether districts and schools have gaps in achievement between groups of students. Districts and schools are required to meet annual goals, with the intent that all students will reach proficient levels in reading and mathematics by the 2013-2014 school year. To comply with federal law, AYP goals were increased for 2007-2008.
For 2007-2008, districts and schools had an additional way to meet AYP. Through the Growth Model, students who are projected to be on a path to proficiency within two years will be treated as proficient in the current year. Use of the Growth Model enables Ohio to focus on the schools and districts where performance is of greatest concern – those in which proficiency rates are low and in which students are not projected to be on a path toward proficiency.
As a result of the growth model, an additional 249 districts and 1,028 schools met the AYP requirement for all groups of students this year.
"We have improved the accountability system this year with the inclusion of two new measures – the growth model and value-added that give credit for students' academic progress over time," said Zelman. "This information gives us a clearer picture of where successes are occurring and where persistent challenges exist."
A 21st Century Education for All
Gaps in achievement between groups of students – based on race, poverty, gender, disability and language background – continue to be one of the greatest challenges for both Ohio and the nation. The state has more than a 21-point difference inthird-grade reading scores between poor and wealthier students and a 19-point gap in the graduation rate between black and white students. The encouraging news is that in the past two years, the gap between black and white students narrowed.
For the second year, the Local Report Cards include data on students' access to a challenging curriculum in high school. Three key measures of access to and success with challenging curriculum are the ACT, Advanced Placement and Post Secondary Enrollment Options. A record number of Ohio students took the ACT in 2008, representing 65 percent of high school graduates. The state's average score is the ninth highest in the nation.
"Ohio's economy desperately needs a more skilled workforce," Zelman said. "The state must work hard so that all students graduate ready for success in higher education or the workplace."
Ohio was the first state in the nation to benchmark its education system against the best practices in the world through the Achieve Report, published in 2007.
Zelman said the report identified areas that could use improvement and the challenges ahead for Ohio.
"While our tests show overall progress, we must continue to improve our state's education system. " Zelman said. "We need to have high expectations for all students and explore a new generation of standards, assessments and accountability that reflects the real-world knowledge and skills our students need to thrive in the ever-shrinking world."
Please visit www.reportcard.ohio.gov to access the Local Report Card PDFs and other resources.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio's rules that protect lakes, rivers, streams and other surface water bodies from pollution are undergoing their most extensive revision in 30 years. The first of four rule packages regulating water quality standards is now available for public review and comments until September 30, 2008.
Ohio's rules that protect lakes, rivers, streams and other surface water bodies from pollution are undergoing their most extensive revision in 30 years. The first of four rule packages regulating water quality standards is now available for public review and comments until September 30, 2008.
Draft rule changes to water quality standards would include:
Water quality standards rules serve as: the water quality goals for water uses and cleanliness; the benchmarks to measure and report on meeting Clean Water Act goals; and the water quality targets to meet when setting wastewater permit limits. Ohio EPA's changes reflect the most recent scientific information and U.S. EPA guidance. The changes are also intended to improve clarity and understanding of the regulations.
In addition, the draft rule contains new provisions for regulating agricultural ditches and primary headwater habitat streams that simplify the review of projects impacting small isolated waters.
All four water quality rules packages address all surface waters of the state. Several of the draft revisions made to all four rules packages specifically address small isolated streams. Due to a U.S. Supreme Court decision in 2006, the authority for the Army Corps of Engineers to regulate dredge and fill projects on small isolated streams was removed at the federal level. The four draft rule packages include revisions that allow Ohio's dredge and fill project permit to regulate those waters of the state that no longer are covered under federal jurisdiction.
For more information about the draft water quality standards rules go to Ohio EPA's Web site: http://www.epa.state.oh.us/dsw/rules/draftrules.html. Copies of the draft rules also are available by contacting Bob Heitzman at (614) 644-3075, or by e-mail; bob.heitzman@epa.state.oh.us. Written comments should be mailed to Bob Heitzman, Ohio EPA Division of Surface Water, P.O. Box 1049, Columbus, Ohio 43216-1049, no later than September 30, 2008.
Ohio EPA plans to propose these rule revisions early next year, and hold a public hearing and a second public comment period at that time. The related draft antidegradation rule and the draft Section 401 water quality certification rules are expected to be introduced for comment in September, and the draft stream mitigation protocol rules in November. After a second comment period and public hearing is held for each of the four rules packages, the Agency will review the second round of comments, consider changes and then adopt the rules.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services employee Larry Mallory has made a living of saving the lives of substance-abusing offenders at the OASIS Therapeutic Community at Pickaway Correctional Institute by helping residents achieve sobriety through treatment and recovery.
Now, officers with the Columbus Police Department are crediting Mallory with saving the life of a 46-year-old motorist who suffered an apparent heart attack while traveling through downtown's busiest freeway interchange, the I-70/I-71 split, during the morning of August 13.
According to CPD Freeway Patrol Officer Dennis Minotti, Mallory, a licensed chemical dependency counselor and operations manager for the prison-based treatment program, witnessed the woman's vehicle swerve off the side of the road, jump a curb and travel up an embankment before rolling to a stop. Mallory and two other drivers – both nurses – ran to the woman's aid and performed CPR until emergency medical crews arrived on scene.
Officer Minotti, a 30-year veteran of the police force, was responding to a nearby traffic violation when he arrived to find Mallory and the other drivers pull the woman from the vehicle. "It was obvious to me she was in a great deal of distress," Officer Minotti said. "She was in pretty bad shape when they helped her from the vehicle. It looked like they knew what they were doing, so I just backed off and let them perform CPR."
Despite their quick actions and poise under pressure, Mallory and the other rescuers couldn't find a pulse during their attempts to resuscitate the driver. Officer Minotti said he and others feared the worse, but later learned that crews, using a heart defibrillator, were able to successfully bring the woman back. She was transported to a Columbus hospital where at last check she remained in critical condition.
"I got a call later that day from a fellow officer who said, 'You aren't going to believe this – but whoever did CPR on this woman probably saved her life'," Officer Minotti commented. "I remember thinking to myself that Larry and the others probably gave this woman the only shot she had."
Mallory, who himself is in recovery and had brushes with the law before turning his life around and giving back as a counselor the past 11 years, downplayed his role in the rescue. "I didn't even think twice about stopping to help. I saw what happened and knew I needed to help. It was just automatic," Mallory said.
Officer Minotti, and others at the scene, beg to differ. They say the quick action of Mallory and the other Good Samaritans are nothing short of heroic "I definitely consider him a hero," Officer Minotti said. "This kind of situation doesn't happen every day. Larry had the option of driving right by, but instead, he stopped and jumped right in to help. I'm glad he did. It made my job much easier."
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Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Insurance has launched a program called TAKE CHARGE, a free educational series providing important insurance tips and information to the Ohio senior community, Director Mary Jo Hudson announced.
The series will visit Partners in Prime, formerly Senior Citizens Inc., located at 140 Ross Ave. in Hamilton on Sept. 19. The session will start at 1 p.m. and include presentations on Medicare Advantage predatory sales practices, Stranger Oriented Life Insurance (STOLI) and long-term care planning.
Please call 513-867-1998 ext. 244 to make your reservation.
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Columbus, Ohio – It can be an emotional and trying time for parents sending a student to college. Remembering to pack everything they will need while away from home is a challenge – and so is ensuring they have adequate insurance protection. Ohio Department of Insurance Director Mary Jo Hudson offers these tips about health, renter's, auto and identity theft insurance to help you review and update your insurance policies to cover your college student.
Health Insurance:
Most health insurance policies cover dependents who are full-time students until the age of 23. Generally, a student must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours per semester (six or nine credit hours in the summer) to be considered a full-time student. Individual policies differ, so check with your health insurer or benefits administrator about how the policy defines a full-time student and the maximum age of coverage.
Know Your Policy
Student Health Insurance Plans
Renter's Insurance:
Many students bring thousands of dollars worth of personal items - such as electronics, a computer, textbooks, clothes, furniture or a bicycle - with them to school. So, whether your student is living on or off-campus, it's a good idea to review your homeowners policy to see whether your student's personal items will be covered.
Does Your Student Need Renter's Insurance?
A Home Inventory
The Big Move
Auto Insurance:
A significant move away from home can have a big impact on your auto insurance policy. If your student is taking a car with them to school, check with your agent about the existing insurance policy. Ask about the rates for the college's city and state before deciding whether to keep your student's car on the family's auto policy. In addition, the insurance company should be notified each semester if the student maintains good grades. Maintaining a certain G.P.A. might make your child eligible for a good student discount.
Identity Theft:
As a college student, your child may be more vulnerable to identity theft because of the availability of personal information and the way many students handle this data. Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States, costing victims more than $5 billion annually. College students are more likely to be hit by identity thieves because they are generally unprepared to protect themselves when the steady stream of requests for personal information begin.
Identity Theft Insurance
Ohioans with questions concerning insurance are encouraged to call the Department's consumer services hotline, 1-800-686-1526. Additional tips and more information about insurance, including a link to the Insure U web site, which lists an array of insurance tips depending on life situations, can be found at the Department's web site, www.ohioinsurance.gov.
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Columbus, Ohio – September 1 marks the opening day of the fall hunting season, with Ohio hunters taking to forests, fields and waters in pursuit of some of the state's most popular game, including squirrel, mourning dove and Canada goose.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife predicts hunting for doves and Canada geese will be excellent this year. Squirrel hunting should be good. Hunters should still see good numbers of gray squirrels. They should be most abundant in the forested hills of eastern and southern Ohio. The outlook for fox squirrels is expected to be above average, with small woodlots adjacent to crop fields and trees near rivers and streams the best locales.
Rail, moorhen and snipe seasons also open on September 1. Teal season opens on September 6 and runs through September 21.
Hunting is one of the state's best recreational bargains, with a one-year license for Ohio residents costing just $19. Those hunting waterfowl must also purchase a federal Duck Stamp, along with an Ohio Wetlands Habitat Stamp, at a cost of $15 each. Federal Duck Stamps are available at many post offices. Ohio licenses and permits can be purchased from license vendors in the state, or online at wildohio.com.
Detailed information on these and other upcoming hunting seasons can be found in the 2008-09 Ohio Hunting Regulations, available where hunting licenses are sold, online at wildohio.com or by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE.
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Columbus, Ohio – The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) today issued for public comment staff-proposed rules that would implement the alternative energy portfolio standard outlined in Senate Bill 221, Ohio's new electricity law. The draft rules also incorporate new requirements for energy efficiency programs, renewable energy credits, long-term forecast and greenhouse gas reporting, and carbon dioxide control planning.
Stakeholders are encouraged to file written comments in response to the PUCO staff-proposed rules until Sept. 9, 2008 and reply comments until Sept. 26, 2008. Following the comment period, the Commission will consider input from all stakeholders before adopting rules in the fall. The rules will then be subject to review by the Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review.
Ohio's alternative energy portfolio standard requires that by 2025, at least 25 percent of electricity sold by Ohio's electric distribution utilities or electric services companies must be generated from alternative energy sources. At least half of this energy must come from renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, biomass and hydro with a minimum of one-half percent coming from solar resources. One half of the renewable energy facilities must be located in Ohio. Utilities are required to meet annual benchmarks, or incremental percentage requirements, to meet the renewable portion of the standard.
In July, the PUCO issued two additional sets of draft rules to implement other sections of SB 221. The first set of rules, issued for comment on July 2, outlined proposed requirements for Ohio's electric distribution utilities to submit electric security plans and market rate options. The second set, issued on July 23, incorporated new or revised requirements for electric line extension policies, government aggregation programs, net metering, interconnection, and environmental disclosure. The PUCO has established separate timelines for evaluating these rule proposals.
SB 221 was signed into law by Gov. Ted Strickland on May 1, 2008, marking the one year anniversary of the date he outlined his Energy, Jobs, and Progress Plan to stabilize electricity prices, create jobs, and expand Ohio's green energy industry. The new law, which takes effect on July 31, 2008, incorporates a system under which rates would be set by the PUCO and outlines a path for electric utilities to implement market-based pricing.
Copies of today's Commission entry, the staff-proposed rules and a timeline that details the rulemaking process are available at www.PUCO.ohio.gov.
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today announced the appointment of Rocky Coss to the Highland County Court of Common Pleas, General Division.
"Rocky has served Highland County for more than three decades as a respected attorney and active community member," Strickland said. "I have no doubt that he will be an excellent judge."
Coss, 57, of Hillsboro, fills a seat on the Highland County Court of Common Pleas that was vacated due to the disbarment of Judge Jeffrey Hoskins on July 3.
Coss will begin on August 25. To retain the seat, he must run in the November 2008 judicial election.
Coss has served in private practice in Hillsboro since 1976 and as an assistant prosecuting attorney for Adams County since 2001. He was the Highland County prosecuting attorney from 1977-2001. He also served as a faculty instructor for criminal investigations and constitutional law at Southern State Community College.
Among his community activities, Coss serves as a member and past president of the Hillsboro Rotary Club, board member and past president of the Highland County Society for Children and Adults and a member of the Highland County Children's Services Board.
Coss received his bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1973 and his law degree from Ohio State in 1975.
"As a life-long resident of Highland County, I am deeply honored by this appointment and look forward to serving my community in this role," Coss said.
A high resolution photo of Coss is available at the following link: http://www.governor.ohio.gov/News/Photos/RockyCoss/tabid/815/Default.aspx
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today received the final report of the Public-Private Collaborative Commission from Commission co-chairs Gene Harris, superintendent of Columbus City Schools, and Jerry Jurgensen, chief executive officer of Nationwide.
The goals of the Public-Private Collaborative Commission were to make policy and programmatic recommendations to the governor and the Ohio General Assembly to promote higher levels of student achievement.
"I thank the members of the Public-Private Collaborative Commission for their service and for their willingness to look beyond what we do today and ask what we can do better for the future of education in Ohio," Strickland said. "I look forward to closely reading the Commission's recommendations as we look for new ideas to make Ohio's schools the best in the nation."
The final report, titled "Supporting Student Success: A New Learning Day in Ohio," includes four "game-changing" action priorities that will enable Ohio's system of education to be more personalized and learning to become extended and accelerated beyond traditional classroom settings. The action priorities will require communities, families and schools to work together to ensure Ohio's school children are prepared for the jobs of the future and can meet the challenges of the 21st Century.
"The report outlines how we will work to expand the educational achievement of our young people and prepare them for the economic, social and cultural changes that we are experiencing today," Harris said. "Our students must leave school with the creativity, critical-thinking and problem-solving skills that they need to be successful and productive in a global workforce."
The four "game-changing" action priorities are:
"In an increasing global economy, our students need an education system that will help them develop the skills and knowledge needed to compete for the jobs of the future," Jurgensen said. "Through a partnership with our government leaders, businesses and local communities, we will carry out the Commission's recommendations and reshape the way we think about education in Ohio."
The Public-Private Collaborative Commission was a provision championed by state Sen. Ron Amstutz in Senate Bill 311, legislation passed by the Ohio General Assembly in late 2006 that established the Ohio Core Curriculum. The Commission began work on the report in November 2007. Members of the Commission included: Eric D. Fingerhut, chancellor of the Ohio Board of Regents; Michael Mann, principal of the Lincoln Way Elementary School in Wooster; Adrienne O'Neill, president of the Stark Education Partnership in Canton; and Susan Tave Zelman, superintendent of the Ohio Department of Education.
A copy of the report is available for download at: www.ode.state.oh.us.
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Columbus, Ohio – With the end of summer break approaching for Ohio's children, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is advocating for a safe start to the school year by reminding motorists to watch for buses returning to the road and students back on the sidewalks.
In 2007, there were more than 100 traffic-related injuries in school zones near Ohio's elementary and middle schools. Between 2005 and 2007, school zones were also home to more than 1,000 crashes.
In addition to school buses, more parents will be back on the route to school. According to numbers from the National Highway Transportation Administration, as much as 25 percent of the typical morning rush hour traffic is school-related.
As part of the Governor Strickland's ongoing commitment to transportation safety, ODOT will soon be accepting a new round of applications for its widely-recognized Safe Routes to School program. Last year, ODOT awarded nearly $4 million to communities across the state for school crossing signals, sidewalks, educational materials and safe school travel plans.
Not only will safer routes to school lead to fewer accidents, the hope is more children will choose to walk or bike to school. National statistics from 1969 showed that half of all students walked or bicycled to school. Today, fewer than 15 percent of all school trips are made by walking or biking. Instead, more than half of all children arrive at school in private automobiles.
More than a third of youths aged 9 to 15 live within a mile of school, but less than half of these students walk or bike even one day a week. This is a lost opportunity for students to get much-needed physical activity and to learn more about their neighbors and the community.
Here are some tips for walking safely to school:
Walking and bicycling to school can be low-cost alternatives to bus service. School districts across the country are feeling the strain on school transportation budgets as a result of increased fuel prices. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, student transportation is the third largest budget item for elementary and secondary education.
For more information on ODOT's Safe Routes to School program, log on to the newly redesigned ODOT website at www.dot.state.oh.us. And to learn more tips for getting to school safely, go to www.saferoutesinfo.org.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Department of Insurance Director Mary Jo Hudson announced that Ohio will receive nearly $541,000 in civil penalties as part of a $20 million dollar regulatory settlement agreement between 29 jurisdictions and MEGA Life and Health Insurance Company, Mid-West National Life Insurance Company and Chesapeake Life Insurance Company, subsidiaries of HealthMarkets, Inc, now known as UICI.
"The companies involved with this settlement are addressing some serious violations of our consumer protection laws," said Director Hudson.
The regulatory settlement follows a three-year multi-state exam led by Washington and Alaska and assisted by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). The exam found multiple problems involving consumer disclosure, oversight and training of agents, claims handling and complaint-handling practices. The subsidiaries of HealthMarkets face up to $10 million in additional penalties if they fail to meet performance standards outlined in the settlement.
According to the terms of the settlement, the companies must implement an outreach program that includes the following:
In addition, the companies must report progress twice a year through Dec. 31, 2009, on performance standards targeted for improvement.
There are 13 areas in need of improvement, including:
The multi-state examination was initiated as a collaborative action under a single umbrella through the NAIC because the companies were the targets of separate investigations and consumer lawsuits in several individual states. Although violations were documented and fines levied in individual state exams, the companies' actions and complaint histories had not significantly improved at the time the multi-state examination was initiated.
The examination covers a five-year period ending Dec. 31, 2005, and stemmed from the volume, scope and nature of complaints made against the companies by consumers in many states, including Ohio.
According to the findings, the companies targeted their sales to self-employed individuals and sold the health plans through associations. MEGA agents sold policies through the National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE), and Americans for Financial Security (AFS). Mid-West agents sold plans through the Alliance for Affordable Services (AAS). In many instances, the agent or the company did not adequately explain the benefits covered by the health plan.
To date, jurisdictions that have adopted the settlement agreement include: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Montana, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Jersey, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming. Additional states may join the settlement before an Aug. 18, 2008, deadline.
Ohioans with questions concerning insurance are encouraged to call the Department's consumer services hotline, 1-800-686-1526. Additional tips and more information about insurance, including a link to the Insure U web site, can be found at the Department's web site, www.ohioinsurance.gov.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio's squirrel season will open on September 1, providing hunters with an opportunity to take as many as six squirrels each day, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife.
A long-time tradition for many hunters, Ohio's squirrel season will offer ample hunting opportunities for fox and gray squirrels across the state. It is a great time to get out in the woods and scout for the upcoming deer and fall wild turkey hunting seasons or take a youth hunting. Legal hunting hours are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset daily.
The season closes January 31. Squirrel season will be closed during the one-week statewide deer gun season that begins December 1 and runs through December 7, deer gun weekend, December 20 and 21, and on the following areas during the Early Muzzleloader Deer Season, October 20-25: Salt Fork State Wildlife Area, Shawnee State Forest, and Wildcat Hollow.
The abundance of nut crops is a good indicator of squirrel numbers the following year. Squirrels have higher survival and reproduction after years with an ample supply of acorns and hickory nuts. Statewide nut production ratings for fall 2007 were again above average and the squirrel hunting outlook for the 2008-09 season is good.
Hunters who wish to participate in the new squirrel hunting diary program, designed to track trends in nut crops and squirrel populations across the Buckeye State, should contact the Waterloo Wildlife Research Station 360 East State St., Athens OH 45701, for more information.
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Columbus, Ohio – The number of Ohio students taking the ACT college entrance and placement exam increased by 2 percent to a record 88,103 students this year. Overall, 65 percent of Ohio's 2008 high school graduates took the ACT.
The original news item contains results tables not included here. Click here to view the original article with all tables.
Ohio students again outperformed the national average on the ACT with an average score of 21.7 compared to the national average of 21.1. The ACT is composed of tests of academic achievement in English, mathematics, reading and science.
"Ohio has many reasons to be proud of these results," said Susan Tave Zelman, superintendent of public instruction. "We were able to increase both our number of participants and scores, while nationally and in other states, average scores declined when the number of participants increased."
In addition to average scores rising, Ohio student scores increased in every subject area as the state rose to ninth in the nation. The Class of 2008 exceeded the national average on all four tests.
Ohio also saw a record number of black and Hispanic students take the ACT tests in 2008. Over the past five years, 2,161 more black and 420 more Hispanic students took the test.
"It's also encouraging to see more students from diverse backgrounds exploring the prospect of higher education," Zelman said.
While overall scores have improved over previous years, achievement gaps still exist, particularly for black and Hispanic students. However, indications from ACT do show that, regardless of race, students taking a core curriculum, as defined by ACT, scored nearly two points higher. ACT's core curriculum consists of four or more years of English classes, three or more years of mathematics, three or more years of social studies and three or more years of natural sciences.
Beginning with students who enter ninth grade for the first time on or after July 1, 2010, the requirements for graduation from Ohio public and chartered nonpublic high schools will include 20 units that are designed to prepare students for college and the workforce. Known as the Ohio Core, students will need to complete four units of English language arts, four units of mathematics, three units of science and three units of social studies, in addition to other requirements.
"Data clearly show a relationship between coursework and college readiness," Zelman said. "The more students are exposed to rich and challenging coursework, the better their opportunity for success in the future."
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Columbus, Ohio – The second set of draft electric policy rules needs significant changes to improve service reliability, provide better inspection processes and ensure stronger enforcement of the rules, the Ohio Consumer and Environmental Advocates (OCEA) said in comments jointly filed at the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO). Additionally, changes should be made so consumers have more protections should they decide to produce their own energy or band together to receive a better rate.
The OCEA, a group of 18 advocates, wants to ensure that all electric utilities make service reliability a priority. By implementing performance standards in these rules, utilities can be held accountable. Tree trimming plans also are an important part of reliability. With standards for vegetation management, including a four-year tree trimming cycle, reliability can be improved statewide.
"Going forward, these rules will set the level of reliability that will dictate what consumers can expect from their electric provider," said Janine Migden-Ostrander, Consumers' Counsel. "The OCC wants to make certain that consumers across the state do not have to worry that their power could go out unexpectedly."
According to Ted Robinson of Citizen Power, "Energy security is an important facet of the economic prosperity of Ohio. Citizen Power believes that the Commission should mandate performance standards for the electric utilities that are enforceable so that we have an electric infrastructure that we can rely on."
These rules also address the ability for residential customers to take advantage of ways to produce their own electricity, known as net metering. The legislature used the new energy policy to encourage the use of net metering and other distributed generation technologies. The OCC has recommended ways that net metering rules can be made more comprehensive, streamlined, transparent, affordable and accessible to residential customers.
Consumers also should have better opportunities to group together to receive bulk rates for electric service. Known as government aggregation, the OCC believes if consumers are able to save on their electric bills through aggregation, steps should be taken to make it easier and more assessable for communities to take part.
"With better access to net metering and government aggregation opportunities, customers have more choices to pick the best way to receive electric service to meet their needs," Migden-Ostrander said.
Ned Ford, energy consultant for the Ohio Chapter of the Sierra Club emphasized, "This round of rules affects Ohio's transition to sustainable energy. Net metering and customer generation issues are critical to our economic and environmental future. Through rulemaking, the PUCO has the opportunity to help Ohio transition more smoothly, ensuring energy security, lowering electricity rates, and fighting global climate change."
"The Ohio Farmers' Union is proud to work with OCEA to assure that the PUCO rules honor the intent of Senate Bill 221 to encourage robust competition, transparency and strong commitment to renewable energy," said Joe Logan, Ohio Farmers' Union Director of Governmental Affairs.
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Columbus, Ohio – Various cars, vans, pickup trucks and boats will be available for purchase at the State of Ohio surplus vehicle auction Saturday, August 16.
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.
Auction items include a Chrysler 300M sedan, a Ford Taurus station wagon, a Sylvan boat with trailer, 22 Ford Crown Victoria cars and a 200-gallon sprayer. To view the items, please visit das.ohio.gov/gsd/PropFac/Surplus/nextauction.htm.
Vehicles may be inspected from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 11 through 15. Vehicles may be started only from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 15. 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 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 18. Cash, cashier's check, business or personal checks and credit cards are accepted. All methods of payment other than cash must be approved by the auctioneers, Cassel & Associates.
All purchased vehicles must be removed from the auction site by Friday, Aug. 22.
Surplus property auctions provide the general public an opportunity to purchase quality goods at reduced prices and enable the state to recoup a portion of its initial investment. Miscellaneous property and vehicle auctions generated more than $4 million 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.
The next auction, a miscellaneous property auction, will be held Sept. 20.
For more information, including payment options and directions, please 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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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today announced the following appointments to state boards and commissions.
The Youngstown State University Board of Trustees
Carole Weimer, of Youngstown, has served as a special education teacher at Liberty Local Schools since 1988. She previously served as a kindergarten teacher at Akiva Academy from 1985 to 1988. Weimer is active in the American Cancer Society and served as a board member for the Jewish Community Center from 1985 to 1994. Weimer received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1968 and a master's degree from Youngstown State University in 1989.
The Stark State College of Technology Board of Trustees
Tony Townsend, of Massillon, has served as the principal at Hope Academy since 2006 and previously served as the assistant principal. Townsend has been a councilman for the City of Massillon since 2005. He received a bachelor's degree from the University of Akron in 2000
The Washington State Community College Board of Trustees
Larry Unroe, of Marietta, has served as the president and CEO of Marietta Memorial Hospital since 1984. He previously served as an administrator at St. Joseph's Hospital from 1980 to 1984. Unroe received a bachelor's degree from Marshall University in 1969 and a master's degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1974.
The Bureau of Workers' Compensation Board of Directors advises the BWC administrator on all critical matters. As fiduciaries of Ohio's workers' compensation system, they also provide independent verification of BWC's financial and operational performance The board has direct power in advising BWC's administrator and managing the agency's operations and policies.
James Hummel, of Dover, is the vice president of human resources for Lauren International, a manufacturer that employs more than 500 people in Ohio. Since 1993, Hummel's responsibilities have been to protect the company's assets and employees, which includes safety and workers' compensation. Under Hummel's supervision, Lauren International created a wellness program that successfully reduced health and workers' compensation-related expenses among employees Hummel received a bachelor's degree from Malone College in 1998.
Larry Price, of Columbus, was a state representative for the 26th House District from 2003-2004. Price is currently the president and chief consultant for LPrice and Associates Consulting in Columbus. He previously served as an assistant to Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman and worked in the Ohio Senate for nearly 20 years as a message clerk and assistant sergeant at arms. Price received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University.
Thomas Pitts, of Akron, is an adjunct professor at the University of Akron law school, where he teaches an annual seminar in workers' compensation law. For more than 20 years, Pitts has worked in private law practice representing workers in Ohio workers' compensation and Social Security disability claims. Pitts is an active member of the Ohio Association for Justice and president of the Summit County Association for Justice. He received a bachelor's degree from the University of Akron in 1976 and his law degree in 1979.
The Ohio Higher Education Facility Commission reviews and issues tax exempt bonds for the construction of facilities for private colleges in the State of Ohio.
James Shindler, of Sylvania, has served as a partner with the law firm of Shindler, Neff, Holmes, Schlageter and Mohler, LLP, since 1967. He previously served as an assistant professor of accounting at Bowling Green State University from 1966-1967. Shindler received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1961 and a law degree from the University of Toledo in 1966.
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.
Sean McCarter, of Columbus, has served as an attorney in private practice since 1998. He previously served as a counsel to the law office of John F. Berry from 1997-1998. McCarter received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1990 and a law degree from the Ohio State University in 1994.
Kim Brown, of Worthington, has served as an assistant professor of ecophysiology and forest ecosystems at Ohio University since 2001. She previously served as a postdoctoral research scientist at the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University. Brown has been a member of the Ecological Society of America since 1993. She received a bachelor's degree from the University of Memphis in 1991, a master's degree from Duke University in 1994, and her doctorate from the University of Washington in 2000.
Richard W. Babb, of Sabina, owns 75 acres of farmland in Clinton County. A World War II veteran, Babb also worked with the University of Illinois and International Harvester Co. in strip mining reclamation. He attended the Ohio State University.
The Ohio Elections Commission hears, through probable cause panels, certain violations of the Elections Law at expedited hearings.
Yvette McGee Brown, of Gahanna, has served as the president of the Center for Child and Family Advocacy at Nationwide Children's Hospital since 2002. She had previously served as a judge in the Franklin County Common Pleas Court, Division of Domestic Relations and Juvenile Court from 1993 to 2002. Brown currently serves as the chair of the Ohio State University Alumni Association board of directors. Brown received a bachelor's degree from Ohio University in 1982 and a law degree from the Ohio State University in 1985.
The Third Frontier Commission coordinates and administers science and technology programs to promote the welfare of the people of the state and to maximize economic growth through expansion of the state's high technology research and development capabilities and product and process innovation and commercialization.
Richard Fearon, of Bentleyville, is executive vice president and chief financial and planning officer of the Eaton Corporation. He has previously served on the board of directors and the audit committee of PolyOne Corporation and as senior vice president of corporate development of Transamerica Corporation. He received his bachelor's degree from Stanford University in 1978 and a graduate degree from Harvard University in 1982.
The Technical Advisory Council on Oil and Gas consults with and advises the chief of the Division of Oil and Gas.
Jerry Jordan, of Columbus, has served as the chairman and as a director for Knox Energy since 1998. He previously served as the chairman and CEO of Clinton Gas Systems from 1988-1998. He is a trustee for the Ohio Oil and Natural Gas Association. Jordan received a bachelor's degree from Denison University and a law degree from the University of Michigan.
The Board of Psychology licenses all persons who desire to engage in the practice of psychology in Ohio.
Pamela Mattson, of Cincinnati, has served as the chair of the Ohio Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health since 2007. She previously served as chair of the Hamilton County National Alliance on Mental Illness. Mattson completed undergraduate coursework at the University of Cincinnati and the Christ Hospital School of Nursing.
The Oil and Gas Commission reviews claims by persons who feel they have been adversely affected by an order of the Chief of the Division of Oil and Gas.
Robert Chase, of Marietta, has served as a professor at Marietta College since 1978. He had previously served as a consultant to Columbia Gas Transmission Corporation from 1984-1998. Chase received a bachelor's degree in 1972, a master's degree in 1974, and a doctorate degree in 1980 from Pennsylvania State University.
The Governor's Council on People with Disabilities cooperates with all employers both public and private in locating or developing employment opportunities for the disabled and assisting in the creation of committees at the community level.
Katherine Hevener, of Cincinnati, is currently retired after serving as a rehabilitation specialist with the Department of Veterans Affairs from 1993-2003. She also has 20 years experience in the field of computer access training. Hevener received a bachelor's degree from Vanderbilt University in 1981.
Diana Pollock, of Lancaster, currently serves on the subcommittee on adult guardianship at the Ohio Supreme Court and volunteers for the Sherman House in Lancaster. She previously served as the assistant dean for development at Ohio University-Lancaster and as a lecturer for the department of city and regional planning at the Ohio State University. She received a bachelor's degree in environmental biology from Ohio University in 1980 and a master's degree from the Ohio State University in 1983.
The Ohio Historical Society Board of Trustees collects and publically displays historical documents, books, machinery, and other objects deemed of historical significance.
David Baker, of Marietta, currently serves as the president of investment and insurance services with Peoples Bancorp and has served in a variety of capacities for the bank since 1974. Baker received a bachelor's degree from Johns Hopkins University in 1968 and a master's degree from Ohio University in 1971.
Linda Litter, of Chillicothe, currently serves as the vice president of community and governmental affairs for Litter Corporation. She previously served as an elementary educator in the Chillicothe area. Litter received a bachelor's degree from Ohio University in 1975.
Thomas S. Adkins, of Waverly, serves on the Garnet Wilson Public Library board of trustees and has been a member of the Lucasville Area Historical Society for 20 years. He previously served as the extension services coordinator for Portsmouth Public Library. He received a bachelor's degree in secondary education from Ohio University in 1988 and a master's degree at Kent State University in library and information science in 1993.
Ohio Geology Advisory Council advises the chief of the Division of Geological Survey and recommends policy and legislation.
Garry Getz, of Springfield, has served as a senior aggregate geologist for Bowser-Morner Associates, Inc., since 2004. He previously served as a staff geologist for Shelly Materials, Inc. from 2001 to 2004. Getz received a bachelor's degree from Wright State University in 1975.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Board of Regents Chancellor Eric D. Fingerhut today received the final report of the State Advisory Committee on the Transfer of Adult Career-Technical Programs, "Creating Opportunities: Connecting Adult Learners with Economic Success." The Committee, consisting of representatives from Ohio's Adult Basic and Literacy Education (ABLE) programs, adult career-technical programs, community colleges and public universities, was convened in November 2007 by Chancellor Fingerhut and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Susan Tave Zelman to craft a strategy for the transition of adult career-technical education and Adult Basic and Literacy Education (ABLE) to the University System of Ohio by January 1, 2009.
The Committee issued findings and an action plan, which focuses on raising the educational attainment level of Ohio's population in order to help the state grow and prosper. The report recommends that the structures, programs and funding of Ohio's adult learning system be aligned with employers' workforce needs and students' expectations by:
The recommendations are in alignment with the state's 10-year Strategic Plan for Higher Education delivered by Chancellor Fingerhut to Governor Strickland and the Ohio General Assembly March 31, 2008. The report states the University System of Ohio will improve Ohio's educational attainment by graduating more students, keeping graduates in Ohio, and attracting more talent to the state. The plan's success depends on encouraging and supporting adults to go back to school to improve their skills and marketability.
"The committee's wide ranging recommendations will do more than simply shift a few programs and the people who carry them out from one administrative structure to another," said Chancellor Fingerhut. "The group is helping create a structure within the University System of Ohio that helps adults go back to school to improve their lives, families, and futures."
The University System of Ohio, created through a directive of Governor Strickland, consists of 14 public universities, 24 university branch campuses, 23 community colleges, as well as over 200 adult workforce centers and adult literacy programs across the state. In creating the University System of Ohio, the Governor recognized that the primary way to make Ohio's economy competitive is by raising the aspirations and the educational levels of its citizens. To view "Creating Opportunities: Connecting Adult Learners with Economic Success," please visit http://universitysystem.ohio.gov/adult-ed/.
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Columbus, Ohio – More than 300 permits are available to hunters wishing to hunt ducks and geese from a blind at an Ohio State Park this waterfowl hunting season. A lottery drawing for the permits will be held at 17 state parks the morning of Saturday, August 16.
Interested applicants must appear in person at a participating state park office with proof of a 2008 Ohio hunting license, state wetlands stamp endorsement in the applicant's name, and a signed 2008 or 2007 federal duck stamp. Applicants under the age of 18 are encouraged to have a parent or legal guardian present to sign the permit contract.
Participating state parks include Portage Lakes and West Branch in northeast Ohio, along with the Mosquito Creek Wildlife Area; East Harbor and Lake Loramie in northwest Ohio; Buck Creek, Caesar Creek, Cowan Lake, East Fork, Hueston Woods, Kiser Lake and Rocky Fork in southwest Ohio; and Alum Creek, A.W. Marion, Buckeye Lake, Deer Creek, Delaware and Indian Lake in central Ohio.
Applications will be taken beginning at 7:30 a.m. at most parks, with the lottery drawings at 8 a.m. at the park office, unless otherwise noted in the listing below.
Each hunter can apply for only one duck blind permit and no one can apply or draw for another person. There is a $50 non-refundable permit fee for the state park lottery winners. Lottery winners have 45 days to construct their blinds and all blinds must be dismantled by March 15, 2009.
The dates of the 2008 fall waterfowl hunting season have not yet been determined by the Ohio Wildlife Council, but generally fall in the later part of October. For information about hunting seasons, call 1-800-WILDLIFE or visit ohiodnr.com online.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today announced that the Ohio Benefit Bank (OBB) is offering online services to connect Ohioans with economic stimulus payments and Ohio's Best RX, Golden Buckeye and Senior Community Service Employment programs.
"The addition of these new Benefit Bank services will help Ohioans, especially senior citizens, veterans and disabled members of our community, who are most likely to be on a fixed income," Strickland said.
The Benefit Bank now offers eligibility screening and application assistance for Ohio's Best Rx, a state-sponsored prescription drug discount card program; Golden Buckeye, a state-sponsored discount card for senior citizens and disabled Ohioans; and the Senior Community Service Employment Program, which offers paid job training and work experience for low-income, older adults.
The Ohio Benefit Bank offers a self-service Web site, www.OBB.ohio.gov, and counselor assistance at community sites across the state to help Ohioans determine their eligibility for these programs and claim their economic stimulus payments.
The IRS estimates that more than 250,000 Ohioans are still eligible to claim economic stimulus tax rebates of up to $300, but have not filed the federal income tax returns needed to claim these payments. That's because these senior citizens, veterans and disabled Ohioans only receive non-taxable income such as Social Security and are typically not required to file tax returns. They have until October 15 to file their taxes and claim the stimulus payments.
To be eligible for the stimulus payment, individuals must have at least $3,000 in qualifying income – such as wages, Social Security, railroad retirement benefits, veterans' pension and benefits and non-taxable combat pay – for 2007 and can not be claimed as a dependent on another's tax return.
For more information on any of the Benefit Banks programs, including how to claim an economic stimulus payment, and to find a site, Ohioans can visit www.OBB.ohio.gov or call 1-800-648-1176.
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Columbus, Ohio – Two groups filed petitions Tuesday to place two ballot issues on the Nov. 4 general election ballot.
My Ohio Now filed petitions purportedly containing 763,181 signatures to place a proposed constitutional amendment on the ballot allowing a casino in Clinton County.
According to state law, the group needs at least 402,275 valid signatures to place the issue before voters.
Ohioans for Healthy Families filed petitions purportedly containing 241,739 signatures to place an initiated statute on the ballot that would require all businesses with 25 or more employees to give each full-time worker seven paid sick days each year.
According to state law, the group needs at least 120,683 valid signatures to qualify the issue for the November ballot.
The Secretary of State's office will send the petitions to the county boards of elections to verify the signatures for validity and sufficiency in the coming weeks.
Click here to view the cover sheets filed by My Ohio Now and Ohioans for Healthy Families PDF.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Department of Insurance Director Mary Jo Hudson announced that the average rates for the state's top 10 auto insurers decreased 2.6 percent in 2007. The average rates for the state's top 10 homeowners increased by 1.5 percent in 2007.
"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."
Ohio has the 13th lowest auto insurance and 6th lowest homeowners insurance average premiums in the country, according to the most recent figures from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).
Auto rates decreased for the third consecutive year behind rate decreases by State Farm, Progressive, Westfield, Cincinnati Financial, Erie Insurance, and Geico. Homeowner insurers that experienced rate decreases included Cincinnati Financial, Westfield, and Liberty Mutual.
Based on the rate activity thus far and industry data, Department analysts expect the 2008 rate activity to differ from 2007. For auto insurance, the average rates will likely increase slightly. For homeowners insurance, the average rates will likely increase in greater percentages similar to a few years ago. Changes in auto insurance rates are associated with medical costs, weather-related claims, the number of cars on Ohio roads and repair costs, while changes in homeowners insurance rates can be attributed to building and material costs and 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 — including recent Ohio average auto and homeowners insurer rate change information — can also be obtained at www.ohioinsurance.gov.
Ohio Private Passenger Automobile Insurance Rate Change History for the 10 Largest Insurance Groups PDF
Homeowners Multiple Peril Rate Changes, 2001 to 2007 Top 10 Ohio Homeowners Insurance Groups PDF
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today announced the following appointments to state boards and commissions.
Linda Kass, of Bexley, is a former journalist and corporate communications and public affairs executive. She currently serves as the chair of the Champion of Children initiative in Franklin County and the board chair of the Bexley Education Foundation. A past member of the Bexley Board of Education from 1994-2001, Kass also served on the board of trustees and executive committee for Capital University from 2003-2007. Kass received a bachelor's degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1975 and a master's degree from the Ohio State University in 1978.
Jason Marion (student member), of Batavia, is a doctoral student in public health at the Ohio State University. He has had internship experience with the United States Environmental Protection Agency, National Risk Management Research and Early Warning Systems Laboratories, as well as with the United States Forest Service. Marion received his bachelor's and master's degrees from Morehead State University and an associate's degree from Hocking College.
Patricia Kennedy-Scott, of Strongsville, has been the president of Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of Ohio since 2002. She previously served in a variety of capacities for Group Health Cooperative, including vice president of the network services division. She received a bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan in 1975 and a law degree from the University of Detroit in 1978.
Steven Stone, of Ashland, has been the executive director of the Ashland County Mental Health and Recovery Board since 2003. He previously served as the associate director for the Richland County Mental Health and Recovery Board. Stone is the president of the Rotary Club of Ashland and a board member with Ashland County Children's Trust Fund. He received a master's degree from Ashland Theological Seminary in 1982.
Kenneth Schilling, of Marietta, has been the marketing director and general manager of Washington Electric Cooperative since 1995. Schilling was previously a loan officer at Farm Credit Services of Mid-America from 1977-1995 and served as a Sergeant in the United States Army from 1972-1974. He currently serves as chairman of the policy committee of the Washington County Farm Bureau. Schilling received bachelor's and master's degrees from the Ohio State University.
Pamela Lucas, of Montpelier, is currently the village manager for Montpelier and previously served as the village's supervisor of administrative services. Lewis is a board member for American Municipal Power-Ohio and the Ohio Plan (Insurance). Lewis received an associate's degree from Northwest State Community College.
Don Gephart, of Blanchester, served as a member of the Blanchester School Board for 12 years. He is currently the treasurer of the National Postal Mail Handlers Union Local 304 in Cincinnati. Gephart attended the University of Cincinnati and received a supervisor certification from the Ford Hourly Institute for Managers in Detroit.
John Houser, of Bethel, is the president of H&G Nursing Homes, Inc., in Mt. Orab. Houser also practiced law in Ohio for 35 years. He currently serves on the Brown County General Hospital Board of Directors and the Brown County Board of Health. He received a bachelor's degree from Miami University in 1966 and a law degree from the University of Cincinnati in 1970.
Vicki Wilson, of Wilmington, is an education consultant, director of the CORE Project at Muskingum College, and an instructor at the Ohio State University and Muskingum College. She previously served as the associate dean of academic affairs for teacher education at Muskingum College. Wilson received a bachelor's degree from the University of Dayton in 1972, a master's degree from American University in 1982 and a Ph.D. in educational administration from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1996.
The Board of Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators provides for the examination of applicants, issues and revokes licenses and adopts rules to govern the conduct of nursing home administrators.
Joan Reidy, of Lorain, is the president/administrator of Avon Oaks Caring Community in Avon. She is a fellow of the American College of Health Care Administrators and a board member for the Ohio Health Care Association. Reidy received a bachelor's degree from Boston College in 1974 and is also a licensed practical nurse.
The Clean Ohio Council was created for the purpose of awarding grants or making loans to assist in the cleanup of brownfields in Ohio.
Jack Schron, Jr., of Chagrin Falls, has served as the president of Jergens, Inc., a metal tool manufacturer, and is the president and co-founder of the Tooling University, an online system of classes and lessons for manufacturers. Schron received a bachelor's degree from Florida Southern College in 1970 and a law degree from Ohio Northern University Law School in 1975.
Thomas Kovacik, of Toledo, is the director of the Transportation Advocacy Group of Northwest Ohio. He previously served as a consultant to business and government on affairs related to the environment and as the chief operating officer/safety director for the City of Toledo. He also worked as the president of Great Lakes N-Viro and president and vice chairman of Envirosafe Service of Ohio, Inc. Kovacik received a bachelor's degree from Bowling Green State University in 1969 and a master's degree in geochemistry from BGSU in 1972.
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Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Aging today issued a call for nominations for its Elder Caregiving Award. The honor recognizes outstanding individuals of any age who sacrifice their time and independence to provide much-needed care to an aging or disabled loved one.
Individuals and organizations interested in nominating a neighbor, colleague, family member or friend may download a nomination form or submit a nomination online by visiting www.goldenbuckeye.com/caregiver/. The department will accept nominations through September 15, 2008. Those chosen will receive the award in the spring.
"Caregiving has many faces in Ohio. A caregiver could be a husband helping his wife through a bad spell, a daughter helping her father deal with the ravages of dementia, a good Samaritan who dutifully helps a neighbor with errands and chores, aging parents caring for a son or daughter with a disability - there are many more examples" said Barbara E. Riley, director of the department. "By helping their loved ones delay or avoid nursing home placement and reduce their dependence on formal home health care, these informal caregivers save the state an estimated $10.4 billion each year."
To be eligible for the Elder Caregiving Award, either the caregiver or care recipient must be age 60 or older. One must also be a current resident of Ohio and caregiving for which they are nominated must not be job-related. The department will select honorees from all over the state to symbolically represent all Ohioans who give their time, their resources and themselves to improve the quality of life of those around them.
Nominations will be evaluated on the severity of the care recipient's condition, the degree of difficulty of care provided, any unique or innovative approaches to caregiving used by the nominee, any special circumstances or barriers the caregiver faces, how the nominee utilizes the resources and assistance available to him or her and the impact of care provided on the caregiver, the recipient and their respective families.
The department also is still accepting nominations for the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame. Visit www.goldenbuckeye.com/hof/ for details.