The Cleveland State University Board of Trustees sets the tuition and fees of the university, hires and fixes the compensation of the school's employees and does all that is necessary to ensure the successful operation of the university.

Tom Adler, of Shaker Heights, currently serves in a pro-bono advisory position for PSF Management Company. He previously served as a co-founder and counsel for Cleveland Real Estate Partners and as the president of Grubb & Ellis' Investment Services Group. Adler also currently serves as the chairman of the Playhouse Square Foundation and previously served as the chairman of the Downtown Cleveland Partnership. He received a bachelor's degree from the University of Wisconsin in 1962.

The University of Akron Board of Trustees sets the tuition and fees of the university, hires and fixes the compensation of the school's employees and does all that is necessary to ensure the successful operation of the university.

Warren Woolford, of Akron, served as the director of planning and urban development for the City of Akron for 20 years before retiring in 2008. He currently serves as a board member for the University Park Alliance. Woolford received a bachelor's degree from Coppin State University and a master's degree from the University of Akron.

The Columbus State Community College Board of Trustees sets the tuition and fees of the college, hires and fixes the compensation of the school's employees and does all that is necessary to ensure the successful operation of the college.

Dianne Radigan, of Gahanna, has served as the director of community relations for Cardinal Health since 2008. She previously served as the chief operating officer of the Children's Hunger Alliance. Radigan has also served as a food and nutrition specialist for the University of Missouri and as a consultant for the Ohio Department of Education. She received a bachelor's degree from Miami University and a master's degree from Michigan State University.

The Terra State Community College Board of Trustees sets the tuition and fees of the college, hires and fixes the compensation of the school's employees and does all that is necessary to ensure the successful operation of the college.

Nancy Grandillo, of Tiffin, has served as an educator for the Electronic Classroom of Tomorrow since 2001. She previously served as an educator for the Tiffin City Schools from 1990-2000. Grandillo is active in numerous community organizations, including holding leadership positions in the Girls Scouts of Northeast Ohio and the Earth Literacy of St. Francis. She received a bachelor's degree from Heidelberg College.

The Edison Community College Board of Trustees has the power to establish and operate a technical college within a designated district and is responsible for setting the school's tuition, fees and employee salaries.

Mary Kathleen Floyd, of Greenville, has served as a member of the Greenville City Council since 2000. She previously served as an educator for 24 years and lectured at Edison Community College for 18 years. She received a bachelor's degree from the College of Mt. St. Joseph and a master's degree from Wright State University.

The Cincinnati State College Board of Trustees has the power to establish and operate a technical college within a designated district and is responsible for setting the school's tuition, fees and employee salaries.

Robert Ringel, of Cincinnati, has served as the vice president of the legal department for Duke Energy since 2004. He previously served as a partner of employee benefits and executive compensation group at Thomas Hine LLP from 2001-2004. Ringel received a bachelor's degree from Indiana University in 1991. He also received a law degree from the Ohio State University in 1994 and a master's of law from New York University in 1995.

The Ohio Air Quality Development Authority constructs, repairs, and operates air quality projects in the State of Ohio.

Jeff Jacobson, of Dayton, served as a state senator from 2001-2008. He served as a state representative from 1992-2000. During his tenure in the Ohio legislature, Jacobson was designated as Legislator of the Year by the Ohio Crime Victim-Witness Association in 1997. He received a bachelor's degree from Yale University in 1983 and a law degree from the University of Dayton in 1988.

The Ohio Expositions Commission conducts one fair or exposition annually and may conduct more if they so decide. The Commission also manages the State Fair.

Catherine Worley, of Laurelville, has served as a consultant and as a attorney in a private practice since 2004. She also serves as a member of the Pickaway County Board of Elections and as the president of Jewelry Open Houses. She previously served as a partner for the law firm of Crabbe, Brown & James from 1998-2003. Worley received a bachelor's degree from Otterbein College in 1969 and a law degree from Capital University in 1978.

The State Medical Board receives applications and conducts examinations for certificates of persons desiring to practice medicine, osteopathic medicine and surgery in the state of Ohio. The board also may revoke existing licenses or certificates of doctors and surgeons in Ohio.

Lance A. Talmage, of Ottawa Hills, has served as a member of the medical staff of the Toledo Hospital since 1974. He currently serves as the director of Ambulatory Gynclecology for the Toledo Hospital. He has served on a variety of professional associations, including the Federation of State Medical Boards since 1999 and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists since 1976. Talmage has also served as a delegate or alternate delegate for the American Medical Association since 1993. He received a bachelor's degree from the University of Toledo in 1960 and a medical degree from the University of Michigan in 1964.

The Unemployment Compensation Review Board hears unemployment compensation claims.

Mark Gibson, of Worthington, has served as the executive director of the Ohio Building Authority since 2005. He previously served as a county administrator for Franklin County and as the executive director of the Ohio Soft Drink Association. He received a bachelor's degree from Ohio University and a master's degree in public administration from the University of Dayton.

The Dentist Loan Repayment Advisory Board is required to determine the amounts that will be paid as loan repayments on behalf of the participants in the Dentist Loan Repayment Program.

Roderick Adams, of Cleveland, has served as a delegate for the American Dental Association since 2003 and previously served as a delegate for the National Dental Association. Adams received a bachelor's degree from Frisk University in 1971 and a medical degree from the Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry.

The Ohio State Dental Board sets the standards for all licensing exams and issuance and revocation of licenses. The State Dental Board also must approve the curriculum of all of Ohio's dentistry schools.

Mary Wynn, of Cincinnati, has served as the president of PEMP, a food safety company since 1992. She has also served on the American Dental Association since 1977. She also serves as a member of American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and as a fellow for the American College of Dentists. Wynn received a bachelor's degree from Xavier University in 1974 and a doctorate from the Ohio State University in 1977. She also received a master's degree from Xavier University in 1984.

James Lawrence, of Peninsula, has served as the president and CEO of Oriana House, a nonprofit agency that serves clients with chemical dependency treatment programs since 1981. He has served on the Governor's Committee on Prison and Jail Overcrowding and is a member of the Advisory Board of the Ohio Criminal Sentencing Commission. Lawrence received a bachelor's and master's degree from Kent State University.

The Maternity and Newborn Advisory Council advises and consults with the Director of Health regarding maternity and newborn health.

Cathy Louise Day, of Bryan, has served as a registered nurse for the Community Hospitals of Williams County since 1980. She has also served as the director of nursing for medical surgical, oncology and obstetrics for Community Hospitals of Williams County since 2001. Day received an associate's degree from the Michael J. Owens Technical College in 1980, a bachelor's degree from Bowling Green State University in 1997, and a master's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix in 2004.

The Ohio Soil and Water Conservation Commission is charged with allocating state funds to soil conversation districts, recommending to the director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources the level of appropriations to special funds, advising and assisting the supervisors of soil and water conservation districts and issuing appropriate regulations governing the conduct of referendums and elections with respect to the districts.

Donna Ruth Shipley, of Newark, currently operates Shipley Farms, a dairy and grain farm in the Newark-area. She previously served as a clerk for the United States Postal Service for 25 years before retiring in 1992. She graduated from Homer High School in 1955.

The Ohio Criminal Sentencing Commission is responsible for conducting a review of Ohio's sentencing statutes and sentencing patterns, and making recommendations regarding necessary statutory changes.

Laina Fetherolf, of Laurelville, has served as the prosecuting attorney for Hocking County since 2008. She previously served as the assistant law director for the City of Logan. She also served as an attorney serving in practice. Fetherolf received a bachelor's degree from Ohio University and a law degree from Capital University in 2004.

The Emergency Response Commission aims to improve statewide preparedness and response to emergencies and promote public awareness of potential hazards. The commission consists of representatives from professional and volunteer firefighters, county emergency and local emergency response agencies, environmental advocacy groups, and petroleum refiners or chemical manufacturers.

Nancy Osborn, of Port Clinton, has served as a health commissioner for the Ottawa County Health Department since 1989. She previously served as the director of nursing for the Ottawa County Health Department from 1986-1989. Osborn received certification as a registered nurse from Mount Sinai Hospital School of Nursing in 1967. She also received a bachelor's degree and a master's degree from the University of Toledo in 1983 and 1986, respectively.

The Ohio 9-1-1 Council is charged with establishing uniform technical and operational standards by examining industry standards as well as federal law relative to 9-1-1 systems. The council conducts research and makes recommendations to the General Assembly regarding wireline and wireless 9-1-1 systems and any necessary improvements that must be made, as well as advising on any legislation concerning 9-1-1 systems across the state of Ohio.

Nancy Serafino, of Mansfield, has served as a public safety network sales engineer at Embarq since 2003. She previously served as an area manager for customer service operations for Embarq from 1999-2003. Serafino also serves as a member of the National Emergency Number Association. She received a bachelor's degree from Youngstown State University in 1998.

Laura Merritt, of Dublin, has served as a public relations manager for Verizon Wireless since 1997. She previously served as a development consultant for the City of Columbus, Recreation and Parks Division from 1987-1997. She received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University.

The Ohio Historic Site Preservation Advisory Board assists the Ohio Historical Society in the society's site preservation program, suggests legislation necessary to the society's preservation program including location, designation, restoration, preservation, and maintenance of historic and archaeological sites and artifacts. The advisory board advises the Ohio Historical Society on the state historic preservation plan as well as encourages the designation of suitable sites on the National Register of Historic Places.

Sandra Hull, of Wooster, has served as the executive director for Main Street Wooster since 1987. She previously served as a speech and language pathologist for the Quincy Board of Education from 1971-1986. Hull also serves on the board of advisors for the National Trust for Historic Preservation. She received a bachelor's degree from Northwestern University in 1962.

Joseph Leonard, of Oxford, has served as an assistant professor of management at Miami University since 1983. He previously served as a contract administrator for Eagle-Picher Industries from 1973-1979. Leonard received a bachelor's degree from Missouri Southern State College in 1970 and a master's degree from Kansas State College of Pittsburg in 1971. He also received a master's degree in business from Drury College in 1980 and a doctorate from the University of Arkansas in 1983.

Donald Hutslar, of Worthington, served as a curator of history for the Ohio Historical Society before retiring in 1995. He previously served as a member of the collection and site development for the Ohio Historical Society from 1959-1983 and as a lecturer for the Ohio State University School of Architecture from 1978-1981. Hutslar received a bachelor's and a master's degree from the Ohio State University in 1954 and 1955, respectively.

Nancy Otis, of Celina, served as the owner of Ashley Art & Framing from 1991-1993. She previously served as the president and senior designer of Ashley House from 1985-1990. Otis also serves as a member of the National Society for Historic Preservation. She received a bachelor's degree from the University of Tulsa in 1981 and a master's degree from the American Graduate School of International Management.

Mary Reeves, of Athens, has served as senior architectural historian for Transystems since 2007. Reeves previously served as a staff historian for the Ohio Department of Transportation from 2001 until retiring in 2007. She received a bachelor's degree from the University of West Florida in 1980 and a master's degree from Florida State University in 1983.

Janet Carleton, has served as the digital initiatives coordinator for Ohio University libraries since 2005. She previously served as the digital projects librarian for the Mahn Center for Archives & Special Collections of Ohio University libraries from 2000-2005 and as an archivist from 1998-2000. Carleton also served as an archivist for the Ohio Historical Society from 1996-1998. She received a bachelor's degree from Ohio University in 1993 and a master's degree from the University of Texas at Austin in 1995.

Dawne Dewey, of West Milton, has served as a staff member for the Wright State University libraries since 1997 and as the director of public history for Wright State University since 2007. She previously served as an archivist for Wright State University from 1989-1997. She received a bachelor's degree from Wright State University in 1980 and a master's degree from Wright State University in 1984.

Robert Lee Keener, of Akron, has served as an associate lecturer for the history department at the University of Akron since 2005. He has served as a lecturer in genealogy and an instructor in American history for various universities while also working as an investment broker, a financial planner, and a business executive since 1969. He received a bachelor's degree from Princeton University in 1968 and a master's degree from the University of Akron in 1991.

Lauren Lubow, of Columbus, has served as the principal attorney for the Ohio Attorney General's Office since 2005. She previously served as an attorney for the State Medical Board of Ohio from 1984-2005. Lubow received a bachelor's degree from Ohio State University in 1980 and a law degree from Capital University in 1983.

The Solid Waste Management Advisory Council advises and assists the director of the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency with preparation of the state's solid waste management plan and periodic revisions to the plan.

Jean Lee Byrd, of Columbus, served as an educator of mathematics and physics in the Oklahoma public schools system before retiring. She also served as a natural resource specialist for seven years for the League of Women Voters of Ohio and the League of Women Voters of Metropolitan Columbus. She received a bachelor's degree from Central Oklahoma State University and completed graduate work at Oklahoma State University.

Stephen Hill, of Cincinnati, has served as a leader of various environmental management programs at GE Aviation since 1981. He previously served as an environmental, health and safety manager for GE Engine Services. Hill received a bachelor's degree from Purdue University in 1974 and a master's degree from the University of Cincinnati in 1979.

Charles Keiper II, of Kent, has served as a commissioner for Portage County since 1993. He previously served as the chief financial officer for Geo-Health Services from 1994-1999. Keiper received a bachelor's degree and master's degree from Kent State University in 1982 and 1995, respectively.

Belle Everett, of New Philadelphia, has served as a trustee for Warwick Township since 2002. He also serves on the Tuscarawas, Stark and Wayne County Joint Solid Waste Policy and Audit Committees and as the director of the Ohio Township Association. Everett is a graduate of Claymont High School.

Holly Christmann, of Cincinnati, has served as a program manager for the Hamilton County Department of Environmental Services since 2006. She previously served the Hamilton County Department of Environmental Services as an assistant program manager from 2005-2006 and as a community outreach coordinator from 1998-2004. Christmann also serves as the president of the Organization of Ohio Solid Waste Districts. She received a bachelor's degree from Indiana University in 1995.

The Ohio Respiratory Care Board regulates the practice of respiratory care by controlling the licensing of practitioners of respiratory care. The board investigates complaints against practitioners of respiratory care, issues guidelines for the practice, and establishes standards for respiratory care education programs.

Anita Adams, of Huber Heights, has served as the vice president of operations for the Good Samaritan North Health Center since March 2009. She previously served as an administrator for Good Samaritan North Health Center from 2006-2009 and worked in respiratory care services from 1977-2006. She received a bachelor's degree from Averett University in 2003 and a master's degree from Walden University in 2007.

The Ohio Water Advisory Council advises the chief of the Division of Water on water management and conservation. The council also acts as a liaison and recommends ways to enhance cooperation between government agencies that have an interest in water consumption and conservation.

Douglas Johnson, of Xenia, served as the chief engineer for the Miami Conservancy District for 10 years before retiring in 2006, and previously served as the manager of engineering, assistance chief engineer of flood control, flood control engineer, and senior engineer throughout his career from 1971-1996. He received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1971.

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.

David Crowley, of Cincinnati, has served as the vice mayor of Cincinnati since 2007. He has also served on the Cincinnati City Council since 2001 and as the president and CEO of Crowley's since 1995. He previously served as the vice president of the American Association of Homes for the Aging from 1975-1983. He received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1961, a master's of social work from the Ohio State University in 1963, and a master's degree from George Washington University in 1983.

The Ohio Cemetery Dispute Resolution Committee investigates and conducts hearings on complaints relating to cemeteries.

Joseph Kun, of Youngstown, has served as the assistant director of the Diocese of Youngstown Cemeteries since 1995. He previously served as the superintendent of Calvary Cemetery from 1984-1995. He received a bachelor's degree from Youngstown State University in 1981.

Marilyn Brandt, of Chardon, has served as the vice president of operations for the Lake View Cemetery Association since 2004. She previously served as the general manager of Woodvale Union Cemetery from 1999-2004. Brandt also served as a member of the Ohio Association of Cemetery Superintendents and Officials Executive Committee from 1999-2004 and served as president in 2004. She attended Miami University.

David Shanteau, of Maineville, has served as the executive director of Rest Haven Memorial Park for 36 years. He has also served as the president of the Ohio Association of Cemeteries and Funeral Directors for the past 10 years. He attended the University of Toledo.

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July 30, 2009 – Governor Strickland, Department of Natural Resources Director Logan Announce Ohio Woodlands Job Corps

New stimulus-backed program to create 132 green jobs, provide funds for college and technical education, remove invasive species and help improve the health of Ohio's forests

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland and Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director Sean Logan announced today that the Ohio Division of Forestry is currently accepting applications for the first class of 132 jobs that will be available as part of the newly created Ohio Woodlands Job Corps, made possible by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Corps members will work a total of 1,000 hours and gain work experience and woodcraft training at one of seven different state forests. Corps members will remove invasive species on state forests, learn how to fight wildfires and receive extensive training and certification.

"This program will help improve both our forests and our economy," said Strickland. "The stimulus dollars used to fund the Ohio Woodlands Job Corps is a wise investment that will encourage healthier forests while creating jobs in regions of our state that are severely challenged by underemployment. I would like to thank President Obama and Ohio's Congressional leaders for helping put Ohioans to work while improving our natural resources."

The Ohio Woodlands Job Corps is scheduled to start eleven, six-person crews working and training at seven separate state forests beginning September 14. The headquarters for these crews include: Blue Rock (Muskingum County), Hocking (Hocking County), Maumee (Fulton, Henry and Lucas Counties), Pike (Highland and Pike Counties), Scioto Trail (Ross and Pike Counties), Shawnee (Adams and Scioto Counties) and Zaleski (Athens and Vinton Counties) State Forests.

"While employment of Ohioans is a crucial component of this program, the Ohio Woodlands Job Corps also provides a unique educational opportunity that draws on the expertise of state forestry staff, the Ohio Forest Industry, OSU Extension and Hocking College," said Logan. "This program will provide valuable training and real world learning experience for corps members interested in making a career in Ohio's $15 billion wood industry, which directly employs 119,000 people."

Both The Ohio State University and Hocking College are partners in the training component of this program. Four of the 25 total weeks of employment for corps members will be spent training in how to fight wildfires, safely and properly use chainsaws, identify invasive and native tree species, and on logging best management practices.

On a forest resource level, participants will spend a majority of their time removing woody invasive plant species from state forestlands. The presence of these exotic invasive plants, such as bush honeysuckle and Tree of Heaven, suppresses native understory species and is detrimental to healthy woodlands. In addition to removing invasive species, the crews will also assist with forest inventory work, timber stand improvement activities, trails maintenance and tree planting activities.

As an affiliate of Americorps through The Corps Network, corps members will be eligible to receive up to $2,300 towards their college education.

To apply for jobs through the Ohio Woodlands Job Corps visit ohiodnr.gov/forestry or ohiomeansjobs.com. The deadline is August 9.

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July 30, 2009 – Public Comment Welcomed on Wildlife Issues

Akron, Athens, Columbus, Findlay, Port Clinton and Xenia locations available

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife will welcome the public to six regional Open Houses on Saturday, August 29, from 12:00 noon until 3:00 p.m.

"Anyone interested in providing input and participating in Ohio's professional wildlife management process is welcome," said David M. Graham, chief of the ODNR Division of Wildlife. Graham adds that fish and wildlife biologists along with law enforcement officers will be on hand to answer questions.

Open houses will be held the same day and time in Akron, Athens, Columbus, Findlay, Port Clinton and Xenia. Information recorded at the open houses is forwarded to the division's central office in Columbus, where proposed rule changes to the Ohio Administrative Code are considered.

Topics for the Open Houses include:

Lake Erie walleye and yellow perch - A proposed change to the timing of when bag limits are set for Lake Erie walleye and yellow perch will be discussed. This proposal would make new bag limits effective on May 1 instead of March 1. Changing this effective date allows for the walleye and yellow perch quotas set by the Lake Erie Committee to be considered prior to setting the bag limits.

The Lake Erie Committee comprises fishery managers from Michigan, New York, Ohio, Ontario and Pennsylvania. The committee's work is facilitated by the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, a Canadian and U.S. agency on the Great Lakes. Each year, the committee sets the total allowable catch for walleye and yellow perch. Total allowable catch represents the number of fish that can be caught by sport and commercial fishers without putting the stocks at risk.

Crappies - A proposal to add 38 lakes to the current list of six lakes (Alum Creek, Caesar Creek, Deer Creek, Delaware, Seneca and Tappan) that have 9-inch minimum size limits is being considered. The proposal also includes setting a bag limit of 30 for crappies on all lakes with 9-inch size limits, which will then total 44 lakes.

The 38 new reservoirs considered are Acton, Atwood, Berlin, Buckeye, C.J. Brown, Clear Fork, Clendening, Dillon, East Fork, Ferguson, Grand Lake St. Marys, Griggs, Hargus, Hoover, Indian, Kiser, Knox, Leesville, Loramie, Madison, Milton, Mosquito, Nimisila, O'Shaughnessy, Paint Creek, Piedmont, Pleasant Hill, Portage Lakes (East, Long, North, Turkeyfoot, and West), Rocky Fork, Rush Creek, Salt Fork, Springfield, Veterans Memorial and West Branch.

Ohio River catfish - An extension of the statewide catfish regulations to the Ohio River is being proposed. Ohio River anglers would be allowed only one channel catfish 28 inches or longer with no limit for channel catfish under 28 inches. In addition, the proposal would allow for only one flathead and one blue catfish 35 inches or longer to be possessed with no limit for flathead and blue catfish under 35 inches.

2009-10 waterfowl regulations will also be discussed, letting hunters know the season dates and bag limits that will be available after the August 12 Ohio Wildlife Council meeting.

For more information or directions to an open house, please call 1-800-WILDLIFE (945-3543). Proposals and directions can also be access via the Internet at wildohio.com.

A statewide hearing on all the proposed rules will be held at 9 a.m. on Thursday, September 10 at the wildlife division's District One Office, located at 1500 Dublin Road in Columbus. After considering public input, the Ohio Wildlife Council will vote on the proposed rules during its October 7 meeting.

Open House Location Information:

Central Ohio: Wildlife District One Office, 1500 Dublin Road, Columbus 614-644-3925
Northwest Ohio: Wildlife District Two Office, 952 Lima Ave, Findlay 419-424-5000
Northeast Ohio: Wildlife District Three Office, 912 Portage Lakes Dr., Akron 330-644-2293
Southeast Ohio: Wildlife District Four Office, 360 E State St., Athens 740-589-9930
Southwest Ohio: Greene County Fish and Game Club, 1538 Union Road, Xenia 937-372-9261
Northern Ohio: Lake Erie Islands Regional Welcome Center, 770 S.E. Catawba Road, Port Clinton (SR 53 north, just off SR 2) 419-625-8062

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July 28, 2009 – Ohio Environmental Protection Agency Issues American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Loans to Seven Communities

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio EPA, working with funding provided through U.S. EPA, awarded $19.3 million to 11 villages, counties and cities to refinance already approved projects using stimulus funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

Projects receiving ARRA subsidies combined with low-interest loans include:

The village of Blanchester in Clinton County received a $479,858 ARRA subsidy to work with an equal amount of Water Pollution Control Loan funding for a total of $959,716 to build a wastewater treatment plant pump station and equalization basin. The project, to be conducted in three phases, is designed to eliminate problems created when storm water enters the village's sewage system. When significant rain falls or snow melts in Blanchester, the storm water exceeds the sewer system's capacity and untreated sewage flows into Second Creek. The creek is a tributary to Todd's Fork. Bacteria levels in the sewage create a potential public health risk in the streams.
Newark in Licking County received a $5 million ARRA subsidy to add to a $9 million Water Pollution Control Loan for a total of $14 million to build a system that will rapidly treat large amounts of polluted storm water. The project aims to protect public health and water quality by minimizing overflows that release raw sewage mixed with storm water into local waterways. When the new system is completed, flows in excess of Newark's wastewater treatment plant capacity will be pumped into the new storm water system for treatment and disinfection prior to discharge into the Licking River. The new system will have a maximum design capacity of 28 million gallons per day. The project will improve water quality during wet weather events in the North and South Forks, and Licking River, by reducing the impacts from Newark's six combined sewer overflows. In 2004, Newark proposed a five-phase, 10-year sewer improvement plan and compliance schedule. When all five project phases have been completed, Newark's wastewater treatment plant is expected to fully comply with its permit.
Van Wert County received a $532,932 ARRA subsidy to combine with an equal amount of Water Pollution Control Loan funding for a total of $1,065,864 to build a gravity sewer at U.S. Route 127 and State Route 118. Currently, this area is served by on-site home sewage treatment systems that dispense raw or partially treated wastewater into local drains and roadside ditches. Gravity flow sanitary sewer lines will be installed along these roadways carrying wastewater to a pump station to be constructed under the plan, and pumped to the city of Van Wert for treatment in the city's wastewater treatment plant.
The village of Sebring in Mahoning County received almost $2.5 million as an ARRA subsidy to combine with an equal amount of Water Pollution Control Loan funding for a total of almost $5 million for wastewater treatment plant improvements. The project includes constructing a new equalization tank system to eliminate bypasses of the wastewater treatment plant. A larger pipe will be installed to alleviate sewer backups in the western part of the village. The project will reduce impairment to the Mahoning River and remove the potential for public contact with untreated sewage due to sewer backups.

The following three drinking water projects also received funding:

Danville village in Knox County received a $285,869 ARRA subsidy to combine with an equal amount in Water Supply Revolving Loan funding for a total of $571,738 to help build a new treatment plant for a new well field. The project is the last in a series to address water supply issues. The village abandoned an old well field after tests found bacteria. The village purchased land, drilled two new wells and replaced an aging water storage tank with a new standpipe to ensure a reliable water supply and delivery pressure.
Crooksville in Perry County received a $602,100 ARRA subsidy to combine with a $150,525 Water Supply Revolving Loan award to interconnect a water main with the Burr Oak Regional Water Treatment District to address drinking water standard violations. Crooksville's existing water treatment plant has multiple violations of drinking water standards. The most cost-effective solution is to abandon the poorly functioning facility and install water lines to tie into Burr Oak's facility, construct a 220,000-gallon water storage tank and a water booster station. The project begins just south of the village of Corning, extends north along State Route 13 and County Road 22 (Tatman's Road) crossing State Route 37 and ending at a connection to the village of Crooksville water line. The existing Crooksville water treatment plant will be taken out of service once the new water system is found to be satisfactory. This will provide a more reliable system of safe drinking water and bring the facility into compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act.
Buckeye Lake village received a $5 million ARRA subsidy to combine with a $1.6 million Water Supply Revolving Loan award for a total of $6,615,297 to build a water main distribution system. Buckeye Lake is one of the largest villages in the state without a public drinking water system, and has been planning one for many years. The village is installing nearly 67,000 feet of water lines, a pump station and a storage tank connecting to the village of Millersport's drinking water source. There have been a number of public health concerns, and many small businesses in Buckeye Lake have struggled to comply with regulatory standards. The system now under construction will tie in about two dozen small public water systems.

All of Ohio EPA's stimulus funding is being awarded in the form of direct subsidies to reduce the capital costs of the projects. Eight of the projects are partially funded with ARRA subsidies and partially funded under Ohio's Water Pollution Control Loan Fund, while three projects will receive ARRA subsidies supplemented with loans under the state's Drinking Water Supply Revolving Loan Fund. These projects had originally been approved for loan funding this year, but under the shovel-ready guidelines of ARRA, were eligible to supplement the loans with federal assistance.

ARRA funding will support 267 water pollution control projects in 160 communities and 65 drinking water projects in 52 communities in Ohio. These projects are the first to be funded. For additional information on the federal program, please visit www.epa.gov/recovery, or see the Web sites below for Ohio specific details.

Water Pollution Control Projects: www.epa.ohio.gov/defa/stimulus_pages/stimulus.aspx
Drinking Water Projects: http://www.epa.ohio.gov/ddagw/dwaf_economic_stimulus.aspx

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July 27, 2009 – Governor Strickland Signs Midwest Agreement to Promote Regional Passenger Rail and Ohio's 3C Corridor

Columbus, Ohio – Joined by the governors of seven other Midwest states, Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today signed a memorandum of understanding to coordinate regional efforts to secure federal funding for development of the Chicago Hub High-Speed Rail Corridor, including Ohio's 3C Passenger Rail Plan, at the Midwest High Speed Rail Summit in Chicago.

"The agreement signed today demonstrates the importance of Ohio and the 3C Corridor to the Chicago Hub. It also commits the Midwest to work together to bring high-speed rail to our region," said Strickland.

The memorandum of understanding was signed by Governor Strickland, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm, Iowa Governor Chet Culver, Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle, Missouri Governor Jay Nixon, Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty, Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels and Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley. Ohio Department of Transportation Director Jolene M. Molitoris also participated in the event.

"A modern transportation system that includes passenger rail service enhances the quality of life for those in its proximity, revitalizes our cities and boosts the economic development and growth potential of a region," Strickland said. "I thank President Obama and the Congress for their visionary leadership and commitment to expanding passenger rail service in the United States."

Ohio's 3C Corridor will connect Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, and Cincinnati as part of President Barack Obama's nationally-prioritized Chicago Hub Network — which connects with Toledo, Louisville, Indianapolis and Chicago to the western United States.

"Ohio's central location makes our state the connection between the Chicago Hub to the west and the Northeast Corridor to the east," Strickland said. "I look forward to collaborating with my fellow governors and U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood to make the Midwest a regional leader in high-speed rail and move our state into the future."

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has made $8 billion in funds available for passenger rail service, and this MOU establishes a Midwest Rail Steering Committee to coordinate the region's efforts to secure resources.

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown also offered his support of the collaborative effort.

"You can't have a nationwide passenger rail system without Ohio," Brown said. "This agreement, coupled with new federal funds through the economic recovery package, will make the 3C corridor one step closer to becoming a reality. High-speed rail is critical to the long-term economic competiveness of our region. By connecting Ohio's largest cities with others cities in the Midwest, we can bring jobs and economic development to our state."

Restoring passenger rail service at conventional speed is Ohio's first step toward implementing a high speed rail network connecting Ohio to the Midwest and the rest of the country.

With ARRA funding, Ohio would have initial conventional-speed service running by 2011. Ohio is seeking at least $250 million and up to $400 million in ARRA resources for the 3C "Quick Start" Passenger Rail Plan.

Applications for ARRA resources are due in October.

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July 24, 2009 – Ohio State Fair Goers Have Green Options for Waste

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Exposition Commission, Ohio State Fair Board and Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) are partnering with several companies to reduce landfill waste and educate fair goers about recycling and composting opportunities in Ohio.

The Ohio Exposition Commission received a grant to purchase 650 recycling containers, which will be used at the state fairgrounds for the 2009 Ohio State Fair and all other events at the venue throughout the year. Each container will be conveniently located next to a trash receptacle for fair participants. Rumpke of Ohio, Inc., a leader in the recycling industry, will service the containers during the 12-day fair.

Beyond the traditional forms of recycling, ODNR and the Ohio Exposition Commission have partnered with Concessions by Cox and Kurtz Brothers to compost all food waste, biodegradable containers and serviceware at designated facilities. These composting opportunities will be available in the Taste of Ohio Building, Rhodes Center Cafeteria and Ranahans Restaurant. The Ranahans Restaurant serves 600 to 800 meals each day of the fair; the Rhodes Center Cafeteria serves as many as 1,200 meals per day.

Along with the opportunity to recycle and compost, programs are in place to educate fair goers about the practices. The collected recyclables will alleviate what goes into landfills and can be reused to make consumer products. Composting food, the third heaviest item going into landfills, can reduce waste costs and be converted into energy. In addition to diverting food scraps from the event, ODNR will use the project to help determine the feasibility of expanding food waste collection to include various other events at the Ohio Exposition Center.

To learn more about recycling and composting, visit the ODNR Natural Resources Park in the southeast corner of the fairgrounds. Natural resource professionals are available at the park to talk more about the effort to reduce, reuse and recycle. The 8-acre facility also provides fair goers with hands-on exhibits and interactive performances that encourage outdoor activity and reveal the value of environmental stewardship.

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July 23, 2009 – Ohio Environmental Protection Agency Selects Scholarship Winners

Columbus, Ohio – Eighteen environmental science and engineering students have been awarded $2,500 scholarships to utilize at Ohio colleges and universities through Ohio EPA's Environmental Education Fund.

According to Ohio EPA Director Chris Korleski, "These awards encourage students to consider careers in technical fields such as environmental science and engineering. These fields not only offer many job opportunities, but are critical training areas for advancing environmental technology fields while building Ohio's future economy."

This year's student recipients have research or environmental work experience in areas such as:

electrospinning of advanced polymers for fuel cells
designing wet flue gas desulfurization systems for power plants
maintaining oil pipelines to prevent leaks
remediating lead-contaminated soils in residential neighborhoods
creating an inventory of neighborhood rooftops for the most effective placement of solar panels
measuring how well wetlands store and treat phosphates from agricultural runoff
studying pharmaceutical and other contaminants in urban waterways
estimating the size of glaciers impacted by climate change
harvesting storm water for re-use in (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) LEED-certified buildings

In 2009, a total of $45,000 was awarded for scholarships. Since the program began in 1999, $464,100 in scholarships has been awarded statewide to 193 students at 45 Ohio colleges and universities. Funding comes from civil penalties collected by Ohio EPA for violations of Ohio's air and water pollution control laws. The scholarship program is administered by the Ohio Academy of Science. It is designed to motivate students to enter environmental science and engineering professions, and to reward outstanding undergraduate students based on merit, enhancing their employability in environmental fields.

Students receiving a 2009-2010 scholarship include:

Maya Alunkal, Case Western Reserve University (environmental geology, environmental studies), Cleveland, OH
Aaron Betts, Ohio State University (environmental science), Cincinnati, OH
Katlin Bowman, Wright State University (environmental science), Columbiana, OH
Patrick Burns, Ohio State University (biological sciences), Dayton, OH
Jacob Eldridge, Cedarville University (environmental science), Bidwell, OH
David Flannelly, College of Wooster (chemistry), York, PA
Teresa Floyd, University of Findlay (environmental safety and health management), Cleveland, OH
Julianne Griswold, Case Western Reserve University (geological sciences, biology), Erie, PA
Amanda Guenther, Ohio State University (environmental science), Peninsula, OH
Justin Henthorn, Ohio University, (chemistry and mathematics), Akron, OH
Matthew MacFarland, Ohio State University (ecological engineering), Beavercreek, OH
Hudson McFann, Ohio State University (geography), Gahanna, OH
Amanda Montgomery, Heidelberg University (water resources), Dayton, OH
Renee Petty, University of Akron (chemical engineering), Wadsworth, OH
Nayyir Qutubuddin, Case Western Reserve University (chemical engineering), Pepper Pike, OH;
Mitchell Thobe, University of Toledo (civil engineering), Maria Stein, OH
Jennifer Tvergyak, Ohio State University (environmental science), Chardon, OH
Hannah West, University of Toledo (civil engineering), Toledo, OH

Students were selected to receive scholarships based on several criteria including: an academic record with an overall grade point average of at least 3.0; original research, scholarship, employment, volunteering, or other unique contributions to environmental science or environmental engineering; an activity in nonathletic extra-curricular activities and organizations; the ability to communicate effectively; recommendations from education and environmental professionals; and a major in an environmental science or environmental engineering program.

The next application deadline for scholarships will be June 1, 2010. Additional information about the scholarship is available by calling the Office of Environmental Education at (614) 644-2873 or visiting http://www.epa.state.oh.us/oeef/. To learn more about the Ohio Academy of Science call (614) 488-2228 or visit www.OHIOSCI.org.

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July 22, 2009 – Department of Natural Resources Park Showcases Ohio's Outdoor Opportunities, Resource Conservation

Families will enjoy new features and traditional favorites at Ohio State Fair, July 29-Aug 9

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Natural Resources Park at the 2009 Ohio State Fair will provide fairgoers with hands-on exhibits and interactive performances that encourage outdoor activity and reveal the value of environmental stewardship.

With the opening of the fair in Columbus on July 29, a newly-constructed, 7,000-square-foot kayak pond will welcome children to try the state's fastest growing boating opportunity under the supervision of watercraft professionals. Kayaks and lifejackets will be provided as the young people are introduced to paddle sports.

After the boating experience, families can roam through the wildlife exhibit where they can catch fish, shoot a bow and learn about firearm safety at the BB gun range. Fairgoers can enjoy the beauty of Ohio wildlife up close with a walk-through tour of the aviary and butterfly garden. Other live, native wildlife will be on display, including river otters, wild turkeys, a bobcat and a new bat display. The eagle exhibit, including a life-sized eagle nest constructed by ODNR, explains how Ohio's Bald Eagle Restoration Program has revitalized the state's eagle population.

Fairgoers can wish Smokey Bear a happy 65th birthday as they stroll past the 15-foot animated black bear. Smokey greets visitors by name and reiterates the importance of forest fire prevention.

Along the park's edge is an accessible boardwalk that leads visitors through a beautiful prairie that is bright with blossoms. The area represents several of Ohio's scenic state nature preserves.

Continuing through the Natural Resources Park, visitors can tour a camping village that highlights some of the special overnight opportunities available at Ohio State Parks: cabins, yurts and tents. The camping village is open from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and will house Gov. Ted Strickland for one night during the fair.

Throughout the shady Natural Resources Pavilion there are several interactive exhibits that promote resource conservation and outdoor recreation. Visitors learn more about access to recreational trails; the movement to reduce, reuse and recycle; the exciting diversity of the Lake Erie coast and Ohio's valuable mining industry.

After a complete trip through the Natural Resources Park, visitors are invited to relax at the 500-seat amphitheater that hosts a variety of acts from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., including the long-time favorite Lumberjack Show. Supporting stage acts include Columbus Zoo animals, retriever dog demonstrations and musical and educational activities.

(Not all of the excitement is on stage. Seating at the outdoor amphitheater was constructed with over 190,000 recycled milk jugs!)

"Share the Fair" this year with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and take away life-long family memories.

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July 22, 2009 – 2009 All-Ohio State Fair Youth Choir Members Announced

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio State Fair is excited to announce the Ohio high school students who make up the 2009 All-Ohio State Fair Youth Choir.

The members of the Choir are selected each spring based on their ability and experience, the recommendation of their high school chorale director, geographical considerations and the consent and support of their parent or guardian.

The students arrive at the Ohio Expo Center only a few days prior to the Fair, beginning a rigorous rehearsal schedule. These talented students represent more than 100 high schools across the state.

Below is a list of the 2009 All-Ohio State Fair Youth Choir members, listed by county:

Athens

Haley Baker, Alexander HS
Jonathon Faulkner, Alexander HS
Kristen Ferguson, Alexander HS
Kyle Ferguson, Alexander HS

Champaign

Meghan Sheaffer, West Liberty-Salem HS
Molly Zeigler, Triad HS

Clermont

Emily Davis, Goshen HS
Wesley Hale, Amelia HS
Erik McAninch, Goshen HS
Victoria McDevitt, Clermont Northeastern HS

Columbiana

Jacob Burchett, East Liverpool HS
Jacqueline Burns, East Liverpool HS

Coshocton

Trent Adams, Ridgewood HS
Daniel Baker, Coshocton HS
Anthony Bible, Riverview HS
Emma Brems, Ohio Connections Academy
Kyle Conrad, Coshocton HS
Marley Cumbee, Ridgewood HS
Shannon Cunningham, Ridgewood HS
Emily Els, River View HS
McKayla Evans, Ridgewood HS
Meredith Evans, Ridgewood HS
Jacob Fetzer, home school
Abigail Frank, Coshocton HS
Andrew Frank, Coshocton HS
Katelyn Guenther, Ridgewood HS
Tyler Hahn, Ridgewood HS
Brad Harvey, Ridgewood HS
Jethro Hengst, home school
Kasi Karr, River View HS
Kent Kirker, Coshocton HS
Kimberly Krebs, Coshocton HS
Alex Lawrence, Coshocton HS
Elizabeth Layman, Ridgewood HS
John Lindig, Ridgewood HS
Derrick Luke, Ridgewood HS
Laura Mould, River View HS
Brian O'Connor, Ridgewood HS
Michael Ondayko, Ridgewood HS
Aaron Owens, River View HS
Melanie Rice, River View HS
Colby Tarrh, River View HS
Chelsea Wheeler, Ridgewood HS
Luke Widder, River View HS

Crawford

Laurale Murphy, Crestline HS

Cuyahoga

Kara Emery, Rocky River HS
Brian Hannen, Parma HS
Jennifer Minor, St. Peter Chanel HS
Loren Reash-Henz, Rocky River HS

Delaware

Katherine Bretz, Big Walnut HS
Thomas Houf, Westerville North HS
Cat Mackey, Westerville Central HS
Tom Shepherd, Westerville North HS

Erie

Jennifer Semon, Huron HS

Fairfield

John Bauchmoyer, Pickerington North HS
Kathryn Bowling, Pickerington North HS
Tanner Burk, Pickerington Central HS
Grant Cole, Pickerington North HS
Brianne Davidson, Lancaster HS
Ariel Heskett, Fairfield Christian Academy
Janaya Jones, Pickerington Central HS
Kristin Lawler, Pickerington Central HS
Tiffany Lawless, Liberty Union HS
Joseph Looman, Lancaster HS
Caroline Miller, Pickerington Central HS
Austin Poenisch, Berne Union HS
Keshav Swaminathan, Pickerington Central HS
Joshua Wiater, Pickerington Central HS
Samuel Woltz, Lancaster HS

Fayette

Jake Hollar, Miami Trace HS
Keaton Webb, Miami Trace HS

Franklin

Ashley Bandy, Westerville North HS
Kevin Baum, Westerville North HS
Kailey Brochowski, Westland HS
Matthew Christman, Madison Christian HS
Letty Cooper, Columbus School for Girls
Kaitlin Dilts, Thomas Worthington HS
Elizabeth DuBoe, Reynoldsburg HS
Michael Grandison, Madison Christian HS
Gregory Gross, Westerville North HS
Andrew Han, Wellington HS
Kaitlyn Haynes, Pickerington Central HS
Chelsea Mondesir, Columbus School for Girls
Lauren O'Connor, Westerville North HS
Grace Putka, Thomas Worthington HS
Todd Wolf, Thomas Worthington HS
Tyler Wyche, Groveport Madison HS

Fulton

Nate Hess, Evergreen HS
John Incorvaia, Evergreen HS

Gallia

Hannah Graham, Gallia Academy
Zachery Watson, Gallia Academy

Geagua

Anneliese Spangler, West Geagua HS

Greene

Jennifer Benson, Greeneview HS
Megan Carr, Greeneview HS
Bethany Ferrell, Greeneview HS
Patricia Ferrell, Greeneview HS
Rachel Rogers, Greeneview HS
Rachel Walters, Greeneview HS

Guernsey

Rose Marinucci, Newcomerstown HS
Ella Stickradt, Buckeye Trail HS

Hamilton

Marissa Richardson, Taylor HS
Kyle Todd, Taylor HS

Hancock

Mallie Grim, Arcadia HS
Michael Livingston, Riverdale HS
Morgan Roberts, Arcadia HS

Harrison

Francesca Gladman, Conotton Valley HS
Helena Glaman, Conotton Valley HS

Highland

Kelly Ernst, Hillsboro HS
Caleb Savage, Greenfield McClain HS
Elicia Staten, Greenfield McClain HS
Terry Staten, Greenfield McClain HS
Heather Thompson, Whiteoak HS

Hocking

Alysha Griffin, Logan Hocking HS
John McClain, Logan HS

Holmes

Lenzil Freuhling, West Holmes HS
Alexandra Jaeb, West Holmes HS
Anastasia Jaeb, West Holmes HS

Huron

Sarah Eastman, Bellevue HS
Dylan Russell, Bellevue HS
Sam Wagner, Bellevue HS

Jefferson

Bailey Gooderl, Edison HS
Devon Satkowski, Edison HS

Licking

Brianna Betts, Licking Valley HS
Misti Curvin, River View HS
Alexis Hampton, Newark HS
Kathryn Hildreth, Licking Heights HS
William McFarland, Licking Valley HS
Ashlee Ricket, Licking Valley HS
Haven Windsor, Granville HS

Logan

Christina Shotts, Indian Lake HS

Lorain

Brittany Santiago, Black River HS
Dylan Vought, Black River HS

Lucas

Katelyn Fandrey, Evergreen HS
Lena Miller, Cardinal Stritch HS
Nathaniel Naugle, Cardinal Stritch HS
Carrie Swartz, Cardinal Stritch HS

Madison

Jordan Penix, London HS

Marion

Samantha Walter, Elgin HS

Medina

Cassondra Wiley, Black River HS

Montgomery

Megan Polley, Stivers HS

Morrow

Matthew Eblin, Cardington-Lincoln HS
Sarah Eblin, Cardington-Lincoln HS
Timothy Foster, Cardington-Lincoln HS
Ricky Ray, Cardington-Lincoln HS
Sierra Spires, Cardington-Lincoln HS

Muskingum

Bryan Brown, Zanesville HS

Newark

Agnes Hayes, Newark HS

Noble

Kerry Magorien, Caldwell HS

Ottawa

Karissa Boisselle, Woodmore HS
Brittany Fitzgerald, Port Clinton HS

Pickaway

Katie Rohrer, Washington HS

Portage

Mark Troutt, Roosevelt HS

Preble

Elizabeth Stidham, Tri-County North HS

Putnam

Neil Macke, Ottawa-Glandorf HS
Shelby Otto, Ottawa-Glandorf HS

Sandusky

Kristyn Hemeyer, Bellevue HS
Emily Radar, Clyde HS
Mandy Welly, Lakota HS

Scioto

Audrey Binns, Portsmouth HS
Isaac Duduit, Wheelersburg HS
Mitch Gower, Portsmouth HS
Alyssa Hankins, South Webster HS
Kyle Johnson, Portsmouth HS
David Lindamood, Sciotoville Community HS
Joshua Martin, Wheelersburg HS
Jordan Riffitt, South Webster HS
Joshua Smith, South Webster HS

Seneca

Elizabeth Cornicelli, Calvert HS
Chris Etzinger, Lakota HS
Alisha Lutz, Seneca HS
Brittany Lutz, Seneca HS
Jessica Lynch, Hopewell-Loudon HS
Hannah Mathias, Calvert HS
Mike Mullen, Calvert HS
Tony Ringle, Hopewell-Loudon HS
Samantha Ritter, Hopewill-Loudon HS
Nickolas Saxton, Calvert HS
Joshua Senn, Seneca East HS

Shelby

Logan Bauer, Botkins HS
Phillip Cook, Sidney HS

Stark

Marcus Burkhardt, Massillon Washington HS
Sheridyn Gasser, Canton MiKinley HS
Anthony Gonzalez, Lake HS

Summit

Daniel Best, St. Peter Chanel HS
Ashley Brannon, Ellet HS
Deanna Moore, Stow-Munroe Falls HS

Trumbull

William Fink, Bristol HS

Tuscarawas

Stephanie Bond, Dover HS
John Warner, Newcomerstown HS

Vinton

Conner Knox, Vinton County HS

Warren

Kevin Drake, Springboro HS
Anna Huckaba, Lebanon HS
Hannah Kelling, Little Miami HS
Rebekah Montgomery, Little Miami HS
Emily Riggin, Lebanon HS
Claire Schad, Little Miami HS
Ryan Schnelle, Little Miami HS

Wayne

Marisa Carafelli, Wooster HS
Bethany Kaufman, Smithville HS
Kelly Levstek, Wooster HS
Krystal Levstek, Wooster HS
Christina Linder, Orrville HS
Christina Morgan, Wooster HS
Andrew Shaffer, Wooster HS

Wood

Steven Daily, Lakota HS
Spencer Guerrero, Northwood HS
Gunnar Lentz, Lakota HS
Addy Mathias, Elmwood HS
Colleen Mathias, Elmwood HS
Emily Widdowson, Arcadia HS

Below is a schedule of the Youth Choir performances at the 2009 Ohio State Fair:

Wednesday, July 29

1:30 p.m. – Main Street Stage
3:00 p.m. – Natural Resources Park

Thursday, July 30

1:30 p.m. – Main Street Stage
3:00 p.m. – Natural Resources Park

Friday, July 31

11:00 a.m. – Janis Center
1:30 p.m. – Natural Resources Park
6:30 p.m. – Rhodes Center Lawn

Saturday, Aug. 1

11:00 a.m. – Janis Center
1:30 p.m. – Main Street Stage
3:00 p.m. – Natural Resources Park
7:00 p.m. – Voinovich Livestock & Trade Center Lawn

Sunday, Aug. 2

1:00 p.m. – WCOL Celeste Center with All-Ohio State Fair Band
7:00 p.m. – Voinovich Livestock & Trade Center Lawn

Monday, Aug. 3

11:00 a.m. – Janis Center
1:30 a.m. – Main Street Stage
3:00 p.m. – Natural Resources Park
7:00 p.m. – Voinovich Livestock & Trade Center Lawn

Tuesday, Aug. 4

11:00 a.m. – Janis Center
1:30 p.m. – Main Street Stage
3:00 p.m. – Natural Resources Park
6:00 p.m. – Voinovich Livestock & Trade Center Lawn

Wednesday, Aug. 5

11:00 a.m. – Janis Center
1:30 p.m. – Main Street Stage
3:00 p.m. – Natural Resources Park
7:00 p.m. – Voinovich Livestock & Trade Center Lawn

Thursday, Aug. 6

11:00 a.m. – Janis Center
1:00 p.m. – Main Street Stage
3:00 p.m. – Natural Resources Park
7:00 p.m. – Voinovich Livestock & Trade Center Lawn

Friday, Aug. 7

11:00 a.m. – Janis Center
1:30 p.m. – Main Street Stage
3:00 p.m. – Natural Resources Park
7:00 p.m. – Voinovich Livestock & Trade Center Lawn

Saturday, Aug. 8

3:00 p.m. – Natural Resources Park with All-Ohio State Fair Youth Choir Alumni
6:00 p.m. – Voinovich Livestock & Trade Center Lawn

Sunday, Aug. 9

6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Rhodes Center Lawn

Top | More Ohio State Fair Press Releases

July 21, 2009 – Consumers Experiencing Problems with Their Cable Company Can Call Ohio's Cable TV Consumer Hotline

Columbus, Ohio – Are you having trouble getting an issue resolved with your cable company? If so, the Ohio Department of Commerce's Cable TV Consumer Hotline can help. The hotline's number is 1-800-686-7826.

Since changes to Ohio law went into effect in 2007, the Department of Commerce has received more than 3,900 consumer complaints concerning billing disputes, poor picture quality, equipment malfunctions, and cancelled or missed service appointments. The Hotline was announced last July.

Authorized cable television providers are required under Ohio law to:

Restore cable service within 72 hours after the customer reports the problem unless the problem was caused by a natural disaster.
Credit the customer's account for a service interruption (depending on the cause and duration).
Provide 30 days advance written notice before removing a channel.
Provide 30 days advance written notice prior to a rate increase.
Provide 10 days advance written notice before disconnecting service.

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) Call Center answers consumer calls and forwards the information they obtain to the Department of Commerce. The Department investigates the complaint, forwards it to the cable company, and requests that they resolve the issue with the consumer. The Department follows up to ensure that the complainant has been contacted by the company and it has addressed the issue.

Director of Commerce Kimberly Zurz has issued 39 video service authorizations to cable providers in the state. The Department has jurisdiction over the cable providers in most major cities, suburbs and many rural communities throughout the state.

While many communities operate under a video service authorization, some still function under the old franchise system with local agreements between the cable operator and the local government. These areas are not under the Department's jurisdiction and Commerce cannot investigate those complaints. Commerce does not have the authority to regulate satellite companies, internet service, or phone service provided by cable television companies.

For more information on the areas covered under video service authorizations, visit www.com.ohio.gov and click on Video Service Regulation. On this site, consumers can see a list of approved cable television providers, the areas that they cover, and download a complaint form.

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July 20, 2009 – Lower Natural Gas Prices May Mean Good News for Ohio Consumers Next Winter

Columbus, Ohio – While Ohioans continue to enjoy the mild summer temperatures, it is easy to forget that cooler weather will be back with us before we know it. It will soon be time for residents to consider the most economically sound way to pay for their home heating needs.

Natural gas prices are at a five-year low. This is in stark contrast to the situation one year ago when the wholesale price on the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) was approximately $1.12 per Ccf (hundred cubic feet). The price today is approximately $.37 per Ccf.

There are several reasons for the ongoing low cost of natural gas. Among them are storage levels, which are approximately 26 percent above the level of a year ago. This is due in part to the ongoing recession and the fact that businesses and residents have reduced their usage during a slow economy.

The Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel (OCC), the residential utility advocate, is a strong proponent of safe natural gas delivery to Ohio citizens at the lowest cost option available to them. The counsel advises natural gas consumers to consider all their options wisely prior to making their energy choices for the upcoming winter.

"Given Ohio's current economic difficulties, this office is pleased that Ohio's natural gas customers are seeing some relief in the form of lower natural gas prices," said Ohio Consumers' Counsel Janine L. Migden-Ostrander. "Hopefully, the lower prices will result in fewer customers being disconnected during these stressful times."

Customers should take a few moments to review their monthly gas bill and understand the charges listed. They then can decide whether there are ways to save either by going to an independent supplier or choosing not to and staying with their local natural gas utility.

Consumers who choose an independent supplier also have the option of a variable rate, which will change every month, or a fixed rate contract, which will set a price for the duration of the contract. Those choosing a fixed rate option should ask the supplier whether there are early termination fees and, if so, how much they are.

Customers remaining with their local distribution company will be charged either the gas cost recovery (GCR) charge, which Columbia Gas and Duke Energy currently estimate as the amount it cost them to purchase and transport the product; or in the case of Dominion East Ohio and Vectren Energy Delivery of Ohio, the standard service offer (SSO), which combines the wholesale NYMEX price with a retail price adjustment determined by a public auction.

The OCC offers an up-to-date chart listing all independent suppliers in Ohio, their rate offers, whether the rates are fixed or variable, and the contract length. You may find this document, titled "Comparing Your Energy Choices," on the OCC Web site at www.pickocc.org . The site also includes fact sheets discussing natural gas billing choices as well as ways to save energy and reduce costs. You also may contact the OCC toll free at 1-877-742-5266 or 1-877-PICKOCC for any questions or concerns you have about your utility bills.

About the Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel

The Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel (OCC), the residential utility consumer advocate, represents the interests of 4.5 million households in proceedings before state and federal regulators and in the courts. The state agency also educates consumers about electric, natural gas, telephone and water issues and resolves complaints from individuals. To receive utility information, brochures, schedule a presentation or file a utility complaint, residential consumers may call 1-877-PICKOCC (1-877-742-5622) toll free in Ohio or visit the OCC Web site at www.pickocc.org.

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July 17, 2009 – Governor Strickland Signs Fiscal Years 2010-2011 Budget Bill

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today signed the FY 2010-2011 biennial budget bill.

The Governor's budget message is below:

Budget Message

Article II, Section 16 of the Ohio Constitution authorizes the Governor to veto any item or items in any bill making an appropriation of money. I have boxed and initialed text in Amended Substitute House Bill 1 that I have disapproved. All remaining text in the bill is approved. The reasons for my vetoes are set out below.

Introduction

In February, I introduced a balanced budget in one of the most economically challenging times in our nation's history. As the budget was considered by the Ohio House, Senate and subsequent Conference Committee, the state and nation's financial situation deteriorated.

A collapse of international financial markets, combined with the ongoing contraction in the housing market and a decline in the automotive industry, led to a sharp decrease in tax revenues and an additional $3.2 billion budget gap.

General Revenue Fund tax receipts declined by $2.3 billion in fiscal year 2009, or 12% as compared to the previous fiscal year — the worst decline in state revenue in at least 50 years. General revenue taxes available to the State of Ohio will be lower in this biennium than they were seven years earlier, impacting our ability to maintain the services and operations of state government that Ohioans have come to expect.

In the face of these unprecedented economic challenges, we were able to come together to pass a balanced budget that invests in education without raising taxes on Ohioans.

Because Ohio families and businesses cannot afford a state tax increase at this time, this budget instead reduces state government spending by an unprecedented $2.5 billion. This after my Administration already realized budget reductions of nearly $2 billion and reduced the state workforce by more than 3,400 positions — resizing state government back to the level it was during the 1980s — to balance the budget in fiscal years 2008 and 2009.

This budget makes education our first priority. It includes an historic commitment to Ohio students, enacting transformational education reforms and establishing a constitutional funding system. The new funding model is based on what our students need to be successful and will ensure our schools have the resources to meet those needs as it is fully phased in. The educational reforms will improve the quality of our teachers, assessments, and curriculum. Every Ohio school will meet strict spending accountability standards. And every Ohio student will learn the skills that modern businesses look for in the people they hire. Investing in a reformed system of education sharpens Ohio's competitive edge and strengthens our ability to attract the jobs and capital that will grow Ohio's economy.

The budget also prioritizes extremely limited resources toward critical health and safety services to provide for the greatest possible number of vulnerable Ohioans during this difficult time. To meet our constitutional requirement to balance the budget, though, it is necessary to make very painful cuts to services that Ohioans have needed and received in the past but that the state cannot provide at this time.

In reducing these services, we have tried to minimize the impact on our children, the elderly and disabled. And this budget increases access to affordable, quality health care to 109,000 more Ohio citizens and preserves health care for an estimated 2,000,000 Ohioans through the Medicaid program.

Much of what we have been able to accomplish in this budget would not have been possible without the leadership of President Barack Obama and the members of Ohio's congressional delegation who supported the President's stimulus plan, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The budget leverages more than $5 billion in federal stimulus resources for their intended purpose — to create and save jobs and prevent deeper cuts to critical services.

This budget process has been long and difficult. However, we have come to an agreement on those things that matter most to Ohio families and businesses who are struggling through the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. We have invested in education for job creation, establishing the most sweeping education reform in generations. We have limited college tuition growth.

We have maintained our commitment to providing health care coverage to every Ohio child and expanded access to more than 109,000 uninsured adult Ohioans. We have made hard choices to reduce spending and resize state government. And in doing so, we have balanced the budget without increasing taxes. Today I am happy to add my signature and make this budget law.

The following sections detail 61 line item vetoes I have issued among five issue areas. These are areas of honest disagreement in a budget document containing 3,123 pages and tens of thousands of lines of text.

Many of the disagreements laid out below are more about specific programs that, if implemented, would place us into a deeper budget bind by not ensuring flexibility in funding. Others are about maximizing flexibility to ensure state agencies continue to prioritize those services that matter most. Such matters are a natural area for asserting executive authority.

The budget reflects a set of commitments I have made, and the legislature has supported. Even with severely limited resources, this budget is a blueprint for Ohio's economic revival.

Download complete PDF copies of veto messages:

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July 16, 2009 – Governor Strickland Announces Advisory Group of Former Ohio Lottery Directors to Assist with VLT Implementation

Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today announced the formation of a volunteer group of four former state lottery directors to provide recommendations for the implementation of video lottery terminals in Ohio's seven horse racetracks.

"I am grateful that these former lottery directors have agreed to bring their collective knowledge and experience to bear on the state's efforts to implement video lottery terminals at the state's seven racetracks," Strickland said. "They will work seamlessly with the Ohio Lottery Commission and executive director Mike Dolan to provide advice and recommendations on the installation and operation of VLTs."

The advisory group will be led by Thomas Chema, former lottery director under Governor Dick Celeste and the current president of Hiram College.

"My colleagues and I are pleased to be of assistance to the governor and Lottery as it takes on this new challenge," Chema said. "Each of us has enjoyed our tenure with the Ohio Lottery Commission, and we are anxious to assist Director Dolan and his staff in efficiently and effectively implementing VLTs."

The four-member advisory group, which met informally for the first time Monday, will provide advice and recommendations to the Ohio Lottery Commission and executive director Mike Dolan in line with the governor's directive and the legislature's authorization of VLTs. The group will examine a timeline, responsibility chart and key strategies for implementation over the next 11 months, including application and licensing, limitations on the number and location of facilities, conflict avoidance and ethics issues, procurement of vendor services, security and other procedural issues.

The members will also advise the Lottery in working with the Joint Commission on Agency Rule Review (JCARR).

In addition to Chema, members include:

Tom Hayes, Ohio Lottery Commission Executive Director under Governor Bob Taft; Currently retired, part-time consultant;
Mitchell Brown, Ohio Lottery Commission Executive Director under Governor George Voinovich; Currently the City of Columbus Public Safety Director; and
Ronald Nabakowski, Ohio Lottery Commission Executive Director under Governor Dick Celeste; Currently Lorain County Clerk of Court of Common Pleas

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July 14, 2009 – Governor Strickland Signs House Bill 150, Includes Third Interim Budget

Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today signed HB 150.

House Bill 150

State Rep. Peter Ujvagi sponsored House Bill 150, which designates August as Ohio Military Family Month.

HB 150 also includes a third one-week interim budget, which will continue to operate state government at 70 percent of FY 2008-09 levels as the FY 2010-11 biennial budget is finalized in the coming days. Once the budget bill is signed by the governor, it will immediately displace the interim budget.

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July 14, 2009 – Boat Motors Among July 18 Auction Items

Columbus, Ohio – Various household appliances, hardware items and computer and electronic equipment will be among the items available for bid at the State of Ohio miscellaneous property auction Saturday, July 18.

The auction will be held at the Ohio Department of Administrative Services, General Services Division headquarters, 4200 Surface Road, Columbus. The doors open at 8 a.m.; the auction will begin at 9 a.m.

Auction items include boat motors, a freestanding basketball hoop, tennis rackets, a drywall sander, a generator, floor buffing machines, weed wackers, lawn mowers and fans. To view the items, please visit http://das.ohio.gov/Divisions/GeneralServices/Surplus/WarehouseNextAuction/tabid/232/Default.aspx.

Purchased items must be paid for in full the day of the sale. Cash and credit cards are accepted. All methods of payment other than cash must be approved by the auctioneers, Cassel & Associates.

All purchased items must be picked up by 4 p.m. Wednesday, July 22. Regular auction warehouse hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The warehouse is open until 6 p.m. on the day of the auction.

Surplus property auctions provide the general public an opportunity to purchase quality goods at reduced prices and enable the state to recoup a portion of its initial investment. Miscellaneous property and vehicle auctions generated nearly $2.5 million during fiscal year 2009.

Public auctions are the last step in the state's surplus program. State agencies declare property as surplus because it is damaged or at the end of its life cycle for government use. The property then is made available to other state agencies, state higher education facilities, tax-supported agencies, municipal corporations and other political subdivisions of the state, including public schools. Remaining property is sold at the public auctions. Auction merchandise also includes items collected by the Transportation Security Administration from airline passengers.

The next auction after this July 18 auction is a vehicle auction, which will be held Aug. 15.

For more information, please contact Jim Rooker at (614) 466-7636 or visit the DAS State and Federal Surplus Services Web site at www.ohio.gov/surplus.

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July 13, 2009 – Video Lottery Terminal Directive Issued as Part of Budget Agreement

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today signed a directive instructing the director of the Ohio Lottery to immediately begin taking actions to implement video lottery terminals at Ohio's seven race tracks, in keeping with the bipartisan budget agreement reached Friday.

In the coming weeks and months, the Lottery will also issue rules, through the regular Joint Commission on Agency Rule Review (JCARR) process, which will establish:

The application, licensing and contracting requirements for Video Lottery Terminal (VLT) agents and their employees, including:
- Extensive background check procedures
- $100,000 non-refundable application fee
- Licenses to be granted for a 10 year period
Limitations on the number and location of facilities at which VLTs will operate, including:
- VLTs only at licensed horse racing facilities
- VLTs at only seven such locations at any one time
- A maximum 2500 VLTs per facility
A $65 million licensing fee for each of the seven VLT agents, including:
- Fee to be paid in five equal installments, 4 in FY10
- First payment to be made by September 15, 2009
A requirement that 50% of all net revenue from VLTs be retained by the state, with:
- Certain net revenue used to cover VLT lease costs, programs for problem gamblers, and other related lottery expenses
- Remainder to lottery fund for education programs
A requirement that licensed VLT agents will make expenditures to improve and assure adequate security at the facilities at which VLTs will be operated, including:
- At least $80 million within the first five years of operation
- At least $20 million within the first year of operation
- Goals with respect to the use of Ohio-based, MBE and EDGE businesses for such improvements
Procedures for the testing, approval, leasing, certification, maintenance and verification of VLTs
Strict auditing, financial reporting and bonding procedures regarding VLT related funds and agents
Strict compliance with competitive bidding/controlling board procedures with regard to all lottery VLT-related purchases of goods and services
Procedures to assure the VLT agents and horse racing operators avoid conflicts of interest with lottery employees
All technical details and definitions associated with the operation of VLTs
Any other provisions necessary to the implementation of VLTs

The complete directive is included below:

Directive to the Ohio Lottery
July 13, 2009
Implementing Video Lottery Terminals

Ohio is Facing Significant Economic Challenges. The national economic recession has caused many and substantial hardships for the people of Ohio. Many Ohioans rely on the health, safety and welfare services provided by the State. Declining employment and recessionary sales have led to declining tax revenues realized by the State, making it more and more challenging for the State to provide the educational, health and other services its people deserve. Without additional revenues, the State would be required to cut services even beyond the significant levels already undertaken and under consideration in current budget discussions.
The Implementation of Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs) is an Important Part of Ohio's Balanced Budget Plan. The immediate implementation of VLTs by the Ohio Lottery is projected to generate approximately $933 million in net proceeds during the coming biennium. The dedication of that revenue to education programs is critical to our continued efforts to strengthen Ohio's education system. Increased lottery revenues allow the state to dedicate scarce general revenue funds to critical programs benefiting the health, safety and welfare of Ohio's citizens, avoiding devastating cuts to those programs.
Implementation of VLTs Should Only Be Undertaken With Strong Legal Footing. The Ohio Constitution authorizes the General Assembly to establish an agency of the State to manage lottery games to support education programs. The General Assembly has established the Ohio Lottery as that agency and has enacted various statutes authorizing the lottery to conduct and operate lottery games in accordance with the Constitution. The General Assembly has indicated to me its intent to pass legislation which would expressly acknowledge that the Ohio Lottery has the authority to implement VLTs under the existing laws of the State of Ohio and that the implementation of VLTs does not violate any provision of Ohio's separate prohibitions on gambling activity.
The Lottery Director Should Immediately Take Steps to Implement VLTs. With an express acknowledgement of the General Assembly that the Ohio Lottery has the authority to implement VLTs, I believe that the Ohio Lottery can, and I direct the Lottery Director to, adopt rules regarding the implementation of VLTs and immediately take steps to implement VLTs in accordance with the following requirements unless and until they are modified or rejected by the General Assembly:
1. VLTs Should Only Operate At Licensed Racetrack Facilities. So as to limit the proliferation of gambling activity to locations in which the local community has expressed its support for such activity, the Lottery Director should assure that licenses to operate VLTs are issued only to those who will operate the VLTs at facilities operated by those already licensed to offer pari-mutuel betting.
2. VLTs Should Operate at Only Seven Racetrack Facilities at Any One Time. Again, in order to limit the proliferation of gambling in the state, the Lottery Director should assure that only seven licenses to operate VLTs are issued at any one time.
3. VLTs Licenses Shall Be Granted for a Minimum of Ten Years. To assure effective regulatory oversight regarding those licensed to operate VLTs, licenses should be granted for a minimum of ten years and should be transferred only in accordance with strictly established guidelines.
4. Strict Background Checks of Prospective VLT Licensees Shall Be Undertaken. Strict criminal and financial background checks of all prospective VLT licensees shall be undertaken prior to the issuance of any such licenses and only those meeting clearly articulated standards shall be granted such licenses.
5. VLTs Should Be Implemented Quickly, But Contracts Should Follow All Standard Bidding Requirements. The Lottery should use any existing contracts it has which would permit the rapid implementation of VLTs, but any Lottery Commission contract for services associated with the implementation of VLTs must be awarded by competitive bidding unless competitive bidding requirements are waived by the Controlling Board.
6. All VLT Profits Should Benefit Education Programs in Ohio. In order to comply with the constitutional requirement regarding the use of lottery net proceeds, all VLT net proceeds shall be deposited and utilized to benefit education programs in Ohio in the same manner as all other lottery net proceeds.
Absence of Implementing Legislation. If the implementing legislation described in Paragraph 3 is not enacted into law as part of or prior to the FY10-11 biennial budget law and such law is not signed into law by me within five days of the issuance of this Directive, the Directive shall then be deemed immediately null and void.

Ted Strickland, Governor

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July 10, 2009 – Governor Strickland's Statement on Balanced Budget Agreement

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland, Senate President Bill Harris and House Speaker Armond Budish agreed to a bipartisan balanced budget framework today.

"We have reached a final agreement today on a budget that is not only balanced, but invests in education without raising taxes on Ohioans," Strickland said. "I appreciate President Harris and Speaker Budish's leadership and the hard work of the conferees."

The governor, House speaker and Senate president today concluded negotiations regarding the state operating budget for fiscal years 2010-11. Specifically, a consensus agreement on the proposed implementation of video lottery terminals at Ohio racetracks to help address the $3.2 billion budget gap was reached.

"Under the bipartisan agreement, I will issue a directive instructing Ohio's Lottery director to expeditiously take all necessary actions to implement video lottery terminals at Ohio racetracks. The General Assembly will acknowledge the Lottery's authority to implement video lottery terminals and provide for a statutory definition of video lottery terminals and other implementation requirements in House Bill 1, the operating budget bill," Strickland said.

"With this understanding, I am confident that the legislature can now move quickly to enact a balanced budget that rightly prioritizes education as the foundation of Ohio's economic revival, reduces state government spending while minimizing the impact on critical health and safety services, and does not raise taxes on Ohioans or Ohio businesses struggling through this recession," Strickland said.

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July 9, 2009 – National Endowment for the Arts Announces Ohio American Recovery and Reinvestment Act 2009 Grant Winners

Columbus, Ohio – The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) completed its review and approval process for the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) grants to nonprofit arts organizations at the 167th meeting of the National Council on the Arts on June 26. These grants are intended to preserve jobs in the nonprofit arts sector threatened by declines in philanthropic and other support during the current economic downturn.

The NEA awarded a total of $700,000 to 12 organizations in Ohio including: the Arts Commission of Greater Toledo, Inc., Toledo, ($250,000); Ballet Metropolitan, Inc., Columbus, ($50,000); Canton Symphony Orchestra Association, Canton, ($25,000); Cincinnati Museum Association, Cincinnati, ($50,000); Cityfolk, Inc., Dayton, ($50,000); Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, ($50,000); Cleveland PlayHouse, Cleveland, ($25,000); Cleveland Public Theatre, Inc., Cleveland, ($50,000); Contemporary Arts Center, Cincinnati, ($50,000); Contemporary Dance Theater, Inc., Cincinnati, ($50,000); SPACES, Cleveland, ($25,000); and YS Kids Playhouse, Yellow Springs, ($25,000). The Arts Commission of Greater Toledo will act as a regranting agency and award grants to arts organizations in northwest Ohio.

"The Ohio Arts Council congratulates these deserving organizations in these successful awards," said OAC Executive Director Julie S. Henahan. "Nearly 3,000 applicants from across the country applied for these highly competitive grants."

The Ohio Arts Council (OAC) applied for and received $353,400 from the NEA as part of the ARRA. The OAC established the Ohio Arts Jobs Preservation Grants program to provide direct grants to Ohio organizations to preserve jobs. Organizations from around the state applied to the program for salary support, full or partial for one or more positions that are critical to their artistic mission, and/or fees for previously engaged artists and/or contractual personnel. There were 149 applicants, and 137 remained eligible after the NEA announced their grantees. Organizations can only receive one grant from ARRA funds. The panel meeting to determine Ohio Arts Jobs Preservation Grants funding recipients will be held July 27-28 at the Riffe Center for Government and the Arts, 77 S. High Street, 31st Floor, Columbus. The panel is open to the public.

The Ohio Arts Council is a state agency that funds and supports quality arts experiences to strengthen Ohio communities culturally, educationally and economically.

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July 7, 2009 – Ohio Legislative Black Caucus and Ohio Department of Development to Host Ohio Urban Outreach Seminars

Sessions on How to Access State Resources

Columbus, Ohio – Lisa Patt-McDaniel, Ohio Department of Development Interim Director, today announced the first in a series of free sessions designed to connect Ohioans with resources and expand awareness of programs to grow small and minority-owned businesses. The first Ohio Urban Outreach seminar will be held at the Akron Urban League, located at 250 East Market Street downtown, on July 9 at 11 a.m.

"These seminars create an awareness that links Ohioans to leverage resources, expanding opportunity for small, entrepreneurial, and minority-owned businesses across our state," said Patt-McDaniel. "Innovative partnerships like these are harnessing a wide array of resources and knowledge to grow prosperity in Ohio communities."

The Department's Minority Business Enterprise Division, in partnership with the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus, will conduct the outreach sessions in an inter-agency partnership across Ohio for individuals and businesses to create awareness of tools, resources, and financial assistance available to grow workplace skills, entrepreneurship, and business development opportunities in Ohio. Session topics will include an array of resources, from displacement services to Recovery Act opportunities.

"There are 58,000 African American owned businesses in the state of Ohio. Of the 58,000, only 1,000 are registered with the state," said State Representative Sandra Williams, who also serves as President of the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus. "I am hoping that African American business owners will take advantage of this opportunity to access state contracts. If you do not know how to obtain a state contract, this is your opportunity to learn how and get a seat at the table."

Ohio Urban Outreach seminars will give attendees the opportunity to choose from two tracks: a track for individuals or the track for businesses. The track for individuals will focus on Ohio Benefit Bank resources, displaced worker assistance, healthcare, and foreclosure assistance programs. The business track will address American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and state stimulus opportunities, capital and bonding access, minority business and EDGE certification, and workforce assistance for small and minority-owned businesses.

The program schedule is as follows:

July 9, Akron Urban League, 440 Vernon Odom Blvd., Akron
July 10, Corporate College East, 4400 Richmond Road, Warrensville Heights
July 17, Youngstown City Hall, 26 S. Phelps Street - 6 th Floor, Youngstown
July 31, University of Toledo, Nitschke Hall, 1610 N. Westwood Avenue, Toledo
August 14, Cincinnati-Hamilton County Community Action Agency, 1740 Langdon Farm Road, Cincinnati
August 21, Canaan Community Conference Center, 1306 Salem Avenue, Dayton
August 28, King Arts Complex, 867 Mount Vernon Avenue, Columbus

Seminars will be conducted by representatives from the Ohio Department of Development's Minority business Enterprise Division, Entrepreneurship & Small Business Division and Community Development Division, as well as the Ohio Department of Administrative Services' Equal Opportunity Division, and the Ohio Department of Transportation.

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July 6, 2009 – Insurance Tips for Summer Rental Needs

Columbus, Ohio – If you're planning a trip to a vacation home, a time share, a rental property, a home exchange or if you plan on renting your home this summer, you may have specific insurance needs. The Ohio Department of Insurance is offering these tips to help you prepare a well-planned vacation that includes insurance protections.

Renting a Vacation Property or Participating in a Home Exchange

If you're renting a property or exchanging homes with another family this summer, your homeowners or renters insurance policy might provide some coverage for damage to the property where you'll be staying. Generally, as a renter, you are not responsible for damages caused by unavoidable accidents, such as faulty plumbing. However, there are circumstances where you could be considered responsible for damages caused by your negligence, and you may be expected to pay for the damages.

Personal belongings you take on vacation - such as a laptop, camera or clothing - are generally covered by your primary homeowners or renters insurance policy. Check with your agent or company to see how much coverage you have and consider increasing the coverage, if necessary. Your insurance agent may recommend scheduling specific coverage for cameras, jewelry, or other high value items.

Secondary, Seasonal or Vacation Home Insurance

If you own a secondary, seasonal, or vacation home, it may be insured by an endorsement to your primary homeowners insurance policy, covered under a separate homeowners policy or covered by a separate dwelling property policy. Like with your primary homeowners insurance, it is important to review the policy for your secondary home every year and keep an up-to-date home inventory in case you would need to file a claim following a loss. Go to www.insurance.ohio.gov for an easy-to-use form and tips on completing a home inventory.

When reviewing your policy, remember the insurance needs in another area may be different than where your primary home is located. Talk with your insurance agent if you think you might need flood insurance or additional coverage against wind, hurricanes or earthquakes.

Umbrella Policies

If you have an umbrella policy to provide excess liability coverage, the policy may not automatically extend to any new property you purchase or rent. To be sure the umbrella policy meets your liability insurance needs, read your policy and discuss coverage needs with your insurance agent.

Watercraft

The personal property coverage of your primary, secondary or renters insurance policy might cover a small boat for $1,500 or less in physical damage. However, coverage for your liability risk is usually limited. Insurers generally provide liability insurance on small sailboats (26 feet or less) and powerboats powered by small motors (50 hp for inboard and inboard/outboard you do not own and 25 hp for outboard motors). However, a boat of any significant size will be excluded from your homeowners policy for both property and liability coverage. Read your insurance policy carefully or talk to your agent before you put your boat in the water.

Personal watercraft will likely require a separate boat insurance policy. You might be able to purchase this policy from your homeowners insurer or you might choose to use an insurer that specializes in boat insurance. Get quotes and compare policies from several different places to get the best deal.

Some important questions to ask before you head out on the water:

Am I insured if someone other than me is operating my boat or personal watercraft?
Are there legal age restrictions on who may operate the boat or personal watercraft?
Is towing skiers or inner tubes covered by my policy?

Renting Your Home to Others

If you hope to make a little extra cash this summer renting your home, first review your insurance policy and discuss your plans with your insurance agent.

Some important questions to ask include:

Will the policy cover damage to your property caused by the renters?
Will it cover bodily injury or medical expenses of a renter injured during their stay?

More Information

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.insurance.ohio.gov.

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July 2, 2009 – Make a Sober Driver Part of Your July 4 Plans

ODPS Reminds Everyone that Law Enforcement is Cracking Down on Drunk Driving

Columbus, Ohio – You've heard it all around the state from Cleveland to Cincinnati - law enforcement will be out in force looking for drunk and impaired drivers this July 4 holiday weekend as part of the national Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest crackdown. The Ohio Department of Public Safety (ODPS) is sending out one last reminder that designating a sober driver before the fun begins is the best way to stay safe.

In 2008, the July 4 holiday weekend had the second-highest number of fatalities for holiday weekends on Ohio's roads. Almost half of the 15 fatalities were alcohol-related.

"Too many people still fail to recognize that alcohol and driving don't mix. Impaired driving is no accident, nor is it a victimless crime," said ODPS Director Henry Guzmán. "We are working to prevent needless fatalities by asking everyone to be responsible and plan ahead to designate a sober driver."

This July 4 holiday weekend, more than 65 law enforcement agencies will be increasing patrols, conducting sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols as well as concentrating on speed, aggressive driving and motorcycle safety. During the holiday weekend, law enforcement will be logging in more than 9,000 hours of enforcement through federal grants provided by ODPS' Ohio Traffic Safety Office. The Ohio State Highway Patrol will have a visible presence on the state's highways and Ohio Investigative Unit (OIU) agents will be doing compliance checks in permit establishments as well as working with local law enforcement to target over-serving and underage drinking.

"This is a last reminder before the holiday weekend. Make no mistake, law enforcement will be looking for impaired drivers. If you are over the limit, you'll be under arrest," Guzmán said.

Impaired driving not only increases the chances of a crash that may cause death or serious injury, but it can also lead to trauma and the financial cost of a crash or arrest. For bars and establishments, over-serving or serving underage could also mean costly fines, suspension or revocation of their liquor permit. Everyone should follow these simple tips to keep themselves and others safe:

Designate a sober driver; have a family member or friend who knows in advance you will be calling for a ride home; or call a cab.
If you see someone about to drive impaired, take their keys and help them find a safe alternative.
If you see an impaired driver on the roadway, call law enforcement immediately. Call 1-877-7-PATROL on state highways.
Always buckle up - it's still your best defense against impaired drivers.
Bar or establishment owners or employees with questions about over-serving or other liquor-permit related issues should contact OIU. Contact information is online at: http://investigativeunit.ohio.gov/. OIU offers free instruction on laws pertaining to the sale and/or consumption of alcohol and tobacco. Agents also cover topics such as false identification, employment of minors, along with penalties for those found in violation.

ODPS works to reduce alcohol related deaths and injuries and keep Ohio's roads safe through the enforcement efforts of the Ohio Investigative Unit (OIU) which enforces liquor, tobacco and food stamp laws in liquor permit premises and the Ohio State Highway Patrol which enforces traffic laws on the road. In addition to enforcement efforts, OIU also works to educate bar owners and servers about liquor laws, including over-serving. The Ohio Traffic Safety Office (OTSO) coordinates and funds the efforts of DUI Task Forces and grants for local law enforcement and safety partners to combat impaired and unsafe driving. OTSO also promotes educational programs, coalition-building efforts and campaigns focused on highway safety.

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July 1, 2009 – Young Ohioans Will Enjoy Summer Fun at Explore the Outdoors Events

Ohio families encouraged to take part in Explore activities to Celebrate Park and Recreation Month

Columbus, Ohio – Beautiful summer weather is here and it's time to be outdoors. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), through the Explore the Outdoors program, is providing parents and children with a variety of family-oriented events to help Ohioans jumpstart healthy outdoor lifestyles.

Explore the Outdoors is an exciting, hands-on family program that gives Ohio children the opportunity to reunite with nature, improve their physical and emotional health and discover the rewards of becoming environmental stewards. Through the program, ODNR provides Ohio parents, grade school teachers, youth leaders and outdoor educators with an easy activity guide to lead Ohio's young people into the outdoors and an interactive online resource, www.exploretheoutdoorsohio.com, which families can use to find exciting outdoor events.

In July, which is National Park and Recreation Month, special Explore the Outdoors events will continue to be posted on the Explore the Outdoors web site. Upcoming events (through July 12) are listed here:

Date	Event	Time	Location	Organization/Agency	Explore the Outdoors Activity	Special Instructions
7/2/09	Splash in a Stream/SQM	9 to 11 a.m.	James H. Kelley Preserve	Village of Canal Winchester	Splash in a Stream
7/4/09	Sandcastle Building Contest	Noon to 2:30 p.m.	Portage Lakes State Park	ODNR	Swim with a Buddy
7/4/09	Kids' Endangered Species Festival		Kiser Lake State Park	ODNR	Learn from a Naturalist
7/4/09	Lake Erie beach Treasure Hunt	5 p.m.	Maumee Bay State Park	ODNR	Swim with a Buddy
7/5/09	T-shirt Art	2 - 4 p.m.	Highbanks Metro Park	Franklin County Metro Park	Learn from a Naturalist	Meet at Nature Center
7/6/09	Lightning Bug Night Hike	9 p.m.	Pickerington Ponds	Franklin County Metro Park	Learn from a Naturalist	Meet at Glacier Knoll Picnic Area
7/9/09	Hike a Trail	9 to 11 a.m.	Chestnut Ridge Metro Park	Village of Canal Winchester	Hike or Bike a Trail
7/9/09	Fishing Program	1:00 to 2:30 p.m.	Slate Run	Franklin County Metro Park	Catch a Fish Learn from a Naturalist	Meet at Buzzards Roost Picnic Area
7/10/09	Brown Bag Lunch Chat	noon	Highbanks Metro Park	Franklin County Metro Park	Learn from a Naturalist	Meet at Nature Center
7/11/09	Creekin	10 a.m.	Blues Creek Preserve	Preservation Parks of Delaware County	Splash in a Stream Learn from a Naturalist	Free
7/11/09	Insects of the Dunes	2 p.m.	Headlands Dunes	ODNR	Learn from a Naturalist
7/11/09	Going Batty	8:30 p.m.	Blacklick Woods	Franklin County Metro Park	Learn from a Naturalist	Meet at Ash Grove Picnic Area
7/11/09	Campfire Cooking	6 p.m.	Highbanks Metro Park	Franklin County Metro Park	Learn from a Naturalist	Dragonfly Day Camp
7/11/09	Pymatuning Laker 5K Run	8:30 a.m.	Pymatuning State Park	ODNR	Hike or Bike a Trail
7/11/09	Nature at Night		North Chagrin Reservation	Cleveland Metroparks	Hike or Bike a Trail Learn from a Naturalist Explore a Wetland
7/11/09	PaddleQuest		Portage Lakes State Park	ODNR	Paddle a Canoe	Registration required
7/11/09	Hummingbird Banding	9 to 11 a.m. & 1 to 2 p.m.	Lake Hope State Park	ODNR	Spot a Bird
7/11/09	Kids' Big Fish Contest	10 a.m. to 2 p.m.	Mary Jane Thurston State Park	ODNR	Catch a Fish
7/12/09	Family Bug Hunt	7 p.m.	Blues Creek Preserve	Preservation Parks of Delaware County	Learn from a Naturalist	Free
7/12/09	Family Fun in the Creek	1 p.m.	Battelle Darby Creek	Franklin County Metro Park	Learn from a Naturalist	Meet at Naturalist

The program's activity guide recommends fun outdoor activities, including Spot a Bird, Hike a Trail or Camp Under the Stars. Families can accomplish all of the activities noted in the book at state parks, forests, preserves and wildlife areas throughout Ohio. Families can also complete some of the activities at local parks, green spaces or even at home.

Explore the Outdoors participants can find special activity completion codes posted at welcome centers and kiosks in participating ODNR and partner facilities statewide. Children who enter at least two codes on the Explore the Outdoors web site will receive a printable certificate signed by Gov. Ted Strickland. Participants can also get entered for other prizes, including a GreenBird birdhouse and a state park camping excursion.

Parents and teachers can contact 614-784-PLAY (7529) or explore@dnr.state.oh.us for additional information or to request activity guides and program resources.

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Welcome to Ohio.gov

State of Ohio News

July 2009

July 31, 2009 – Governor Strickland Announces Appointments

July 30, 2009 – Governor Strickland, Department of Natural Resources Director Logan Announce Ohio Woodlands Job Corps

New stimulus-backed program to create 132 green jobs, provide funds for college and technical education, remove invasive species and help improve the health of Ohio's forests

July 30, 2009 – Public Comment Welcomed on Wildlife Issues

Akron, Athens, Columbus, Findlay, Port Clinton and Xenia locations available

July 28, 2009 – Ohio Environmental Protection Agency Issues American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Loans to Seven Communities

July 27, 2009 – Governor Strickland Signs Midwest Agreement to Promote Regional Passenger Rail and Ohio's 3C Corridor

July 24, 2009 – Ohio State Fair Goers Have Green Options for Waste

July 23, 2009 – Ohio Environmental Protection Agency Selects Scholarship Winners

July 22, 2009 – Department of Natural Resources Park Showcases Ohio's Outdoor Opportunities, Resource Conservation

Families will enjoy new features and traditional favorites at Ohio State Fair, July 29-Aug 9

July 22, 2009 – 2009 All-Ohio State Fair Youth Choir Members Announced

Athens

Champaign

Clermont

Columbiana

Coshocton

Crawford

Cuyahoga

Delaware

Erie

Fairfield

Fayette

Franklin

Fulton

Gallia

Geagua

Greene

Guernsey

Hamilton

Hancock

Harrison

Highland

Hocking

Holmes

Huron

Jefferson

Licking

Logan

Lorain

Lucas

Madison

Marion

Medina

Montgomery

Morrow

Muskingum

Newark

Noble

Ottawa

Pickaway

Portage

Preble

Putnam

Sandusky

Scioto

Seneca

Shelby

Stark

Summit

Trumbull

Tuscarawas

Vinton

Warren

Wayne

Wood

Wednesday, July 29

Thursday, July 30

Friday, July 31

Saturday, Aug. 1

Sunday, Aug. 2

Monday, Aug. 3

Tuesday, Aug. 4

Wednesday, Aug. 5

Thursday, Aug. 6

Friday, Aug. 7

Saturday, Aug. 8

Directive to the Ohio Lottery
July 13, 2009
Implementing Video Lottery Terminals