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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today announced the following appointments to state boards and commissions.
The Ohio Community Service Council works to encourage and expand community service programs throughout the state. It also assists state agencies in coordinating community service education programs through cooperative efforts between institutions and organizations in the public and private sectors.
Maureen Drummond, of Canfield, has served as the program director for Volunteer Services Agency, Inc., in Youngstown since 2001. She previously served as the agency's director of senior programs and RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) project director. Drummond received a bachelor's degree from Youngstown State University in 1985.
Chelsea Merriman, of Hilliard, is pursuing a bachelor's degree at Otterbein College. She serves as the volunteer coordinator for Otterbein's United Methodist Children's Home program and the vice president of the Center for Community Engagement TEAM. Merriman is also a member of Raise Your Voice, an Otterbein organization urging college students to vote and understand the political process.
Jeffrey King, of Columbus, has served as the State 4-H Leader and assistant director of the Ohio State University Extension since 1998. As State 4-H Leader, he oversees the Ohio 4-H Youth Development program across all 88 counties. King received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1981, a master's degree from Ohio State in 1985 and a doctorate from Ohio State in 1997.
Juliet Thomas, of West Salem, currently serves as the AmeriCorps*VISTA leader and special project coordinator for the North Carolina Campus Compact. She was previously the community service coordinator for AmeriCorps*VISTA for the Ohio Campus Compact at Ashland University. Thomas received a bachelor's degree from Miami University in 2005.
The State Medical Board receives applications and conducts examinations for certificates of persons desiring to practice medicine, osteopathic medicine and surgery in the state of Ohio. The board also may revoke existing licenses or certificates of doctors and surgeons in Ohio.
Marchelle Suppan, of Orrville, is the vice president of medical affairs for Dunlap Memorial Hospital and an adjunct instructor of basic pharmacology at the University of Akron, Wayne College. From 1991-2004, she served as the president/owner of the Suppan Foot and Ankle Clinic. Suppan received a bachelor's degree from Kent State University in 1976, a doctorate from the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine in 1980 and an MBA from Ashland University in 2003.
Susan Stephens, of Gates Mills, works in private practice at the Institute for Spine in Concord and Associates In Orthopaedics in Cleveland Heights. Stephens received a bachelor's degree from Princeton University in 1982 and a doctor of medicine from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in 1986. She conducted her post-graduate residencies at the Los Angeles County-University of Southern California Medical Center.
The Partnership for Continued Learning was established to promote systemic approaches to education by supporting regional efforts to foster collaboration among providers of preschool through postsecondary education, identifying the workforce needs of private sector employers in the state, and making recommendations for facilitating collaboration among providers of preschool through postsecondary education and for maintaining a high-quality workforce in the state.
Mattie James, of Columbus, is the president and CEO of the Child Development Council of Franklin County, Inc. - a position she has held since 1985. As president and CEO, James oversees a child and family development agency that serves more than 1,800 children and families in Franklin County. A West Virginia native, James received a bachelor's degree from West Virginia State College in 1964.
The Third Frontier Commission coordinates and administers science and technology programs to support the welfare of the people of the state and to maximize the economic growth of the state through expansion of the state's high technology research and development capabilities and the state's product and process innovation and commercialization.
William McCreary, of Sylvania, is the vice president and chief technical officer for Nippon Sheet Glass Group, a glass technology innovator and manufacturer. He serves as the vice president and chief information officer for Pilkington North America, Inc., an NSG subsidiary in Toledo. McCreary received a bachelor's degree from the University of Toledo in 1971 as well as master's degrees in business administration, economics, and applied math and computer methods.
The State Lottery Commission acts as an advisory body to the administration of the state lottery. Members should have prior experience in business administration, management, sales, marketing, or advertising.
Otto Beatty III, of Columbus, has been the co-owner of E.E. Ward Moving and Storage in Columbus since 2001. Beatty served as a partner and associate with Baker and Hostetler LLP from 1995-2007 and specialized in commercial law, Ohio administrative law, bankruptcy and financial institutions. He received a bachelor's degree from Morehouse College in 1991 and a law degree from the University of Michigan in 1993.
The State Fire Commission may recommend courses of action to be taken by the fire marshal in carrying out his duties.
Ann Spicer, of Columbus, is the executive vice president of the Ohio Academy of Family Physicians - a position she has held since 1995. She previously served as the executive secretary for the Ohio House of Representatives from 1993-1994 and as an assistant to the Speaker of the Ohio House from 1979-1993. She received a bachelor's degree from Capital University in 1977.
The eTech Ohio Commission governs eTech Ohio. An executive director oversees a staff of approximately 80 employees and manages the day-to-day operations of eTech. The Commission meets to consider grant requests and other policy matters.
David Todt, of Friendship, is currently the interim provost of Shawnee State University. He served as the university's associate provost/director of Institutional Planning from 2004-2007 and the chairman of the Department of Teacher Education from 1997-2004. Todt received a bachelor's degree from Miami University in 1971 and earned graduate degrees from Miami University and the Ohio State University.
The State Board of Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics adopts rules to carry out the form and manner of filing licensure applications and renewals and the standards for evaluating licensure examinations.
Rosalind Batley, of Canal Winchester, has taught at the Ohio State University since 1982. She currently serves as an associate professor in the university's Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation as well as in the Department of Pediatrics. Batley received a bachelor's degree from Ohio Wesleyan University in 1973 and a medical degree from the Ohio State University College of Medicine in 1977.
Kevin Hawkins, of Poland, has been a board certified and state licensed staff prosthetist for the Hanger Orthopedic Group, Inc., since 2002. He previously served as the director of prosthetic services for ABi Orthotics and Prosthetics. Hawkins received a bachelor's degree from Memphis State University in 1984.
The State Board of Emergency Medical Services is charged with preparing a plan for the statewide regulation of emergency medical services during times of disaster. The board oversees an Emergency Medical Services Grant program to improve quality and accessibility of EMS services within the state.
James Holcomb, of Pickerington, is retired after 34 years in public education, where he served as a teacher and administrator. In the course of his career, he also worked as a part-time volunteer firefighter and EMT. Holcomb received a bachelor's degree from Bluffton College in 1966 and a master's degree in guidance and counseling from Kent State University in 1971.
The Board of Building Standards formulates and adopts standards and regulations governing the erection, construction, repair, alteration and maintenance of all classes of buildings specified under section 3781.06 of the Ohio Revised Code.
Gerry Bird, of Dublin, is the co-founder and managing principal of Bird Houk Collaborative, a multidisciplinary architecture, planning, urban design and landscape architecture firm. Bird served seven years as the president and/or director of the Columbus Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. He received a master's degree in architecture from the Ohio State University and an MBA from Capital University.
The State Board of Optometry holds examinations for optometrists twice yearly. It issues licenses, may revoke licenses and establishes rules and regulations governing the practice of optometry.
Dennis Roark, of Springfield, has served in private optometry practice in Springfield for 35 years. He has been a member of the Ohio Optometric Association and American Optometric Association for more than 40 years. Roark received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1968 and a doctor of optometry in 1970.
The Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board oversees the grading of examinations of individuals applying to be professional counselors, social workers, or independent social workers and determines if an applicant is qualified for practice.
Robert Nelson, of Yellow Springs, has served as the clinical supervisor for the AIDS Resource Center Ohio in Dayton since 1999. He also serves as an adjunct professor in the Sociology and Anthropology Department at Wright State University. Nelson received a bachelor's degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 1970 and a master's degree in social work from SUNY at Buffalo in 1973.
Francine Packard, of Youngstown, works at the Center for Behavioral Medicine, Youth Services, in Youngstown as the acting adolescent and adult recovery services coordinator. She also serves as a crisis response team member for the Center. Packard received a bachelor's degree from Kent State University in 1995 and a master's in education at Youngstown State University in 2001.
The Reclamation Commission provides an administrative appeal to any person claiming to be aggrieved or adversely affected by a decision of the chief of the Division of Mineral Resources Management at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, relating to mining and reclamation issues.
Gene Branstool, of Utica, is a former member of the Ohio House of Representatives and the Ohio Senate. A farmer for 39 years, Branstool was inducted into the Licking County Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2004. He is currently a member of the board of directors for Licking Memorial Hospital. He graduated from the Ohio State University College of Agriculture in 1958.
The Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy and Athletic Trainers Board licenses practitioners of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and athletic training, either through examination or reciprocity and investigates complaints and concerns relative to alleged violations of Chapter 4755 of the Ohio Revised Code, which can result in the suspension or revocation of a license, or the refusal to issue or renew a license.
Kimberly Lawler, of Frazeysburg, is a full-time occupational therapy instructor at Zane State College. She is also a register/licensed occupational therapist at Genesis HealthCare System in Zanesville, People First Rehab in Coshocton, Southeast Ohio Rehab Services in Salesville and Therapros in Cambridge. Lawler received a bachelor's degree from the Ohio State University in 1992 and a master's degree from Nova Southeastern University in 2005.
Averell Russell Overby, of Athens, has served as an associate professor and the director of the Ohio University School of Physical Therapy since 1996. She previously served as an associate professor in the School of Physical Therapy at Texas Woman's University. She received a bachelor's degree from Immaculata College in 1969, a master's in physical therapy from Stanford University in 1971 and a doctorate in public health from the University of Texas in 1993.
The Barber Board prescribes sanitary regulations for barber shops and barber schools, subject to approval by the Department of Health. The board also provides barbering permits, examinations, registration and certification.
Charles Graf, of Lancaster, is employed as a barber by the HairShop in Lancaster. He was previously self-employed.
The Technical Advisory Council on Oil and Gas advises the Division of Mineral Resources Management at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources on technical matters which may arise concerning oil and gas production, drilling, and exploration.
John Ackerman, of Woodsfield, is a self-employed Nationwide Insurance agent and a farmer. As an insurance agent for 22 years, Ackerman has worked with land owners and farmers on oil and gas leasing issues and property liability. He also served two years as the president of the Monroe County Agricultural Society.
The Ohio Steel Industry Advisory Council is responsible for conducting an examination of existing federal and Ohio laws that currently affect the production and consumption of Ohio steel, problems that the Ohio steel industry currently faces, including foreign competition and the economic climate for the Ohio steel industry, and other matters relevant to the future of the steel industry in this state. The Council also submits an annual report to legislative leaders and advises local and state government officials.
Larry Taylor, of Amherst, is currently the plant manager for U.S. Steel Lorain Tubular Operations. His 30 years of manufacturing and human resources experience include serving as the North American human resources manager for Almatis, Inc, from 2004-2006 and as the manager of human resources for Copperweld in Piqua from 1997-2004. He received a bachelor's degree from Bluffton College in 2003.
Leonard Anthony, of Warren, is the president and CEO of WCI Steel, Inc. He previously served as the executive vice president and chief financial officer for Dresser Rand Group, Inc., in Houston from 2005-2007. Anthony also served more than 20 years in various positions at the Bethlehem Steel Corporation in Pennsylvania. He received a bachelor's degree from Pennsylvania State University in 1976 and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania in 1993.
The Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board regulates the licensure and certification process of chemical dependency counselors and specialists, approves educational coursework and investigates ethical complaints against licensees. The board also regulates the prices of chemical dependency counseling and alcohol and other drug prevention services.
Mary Haag, of Cincinnati, is the director of coalition strategies for the Coalition for a Drug-Free Greater Cincinnati. Among her professional affiliations, Haag is a board member and president of the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Association of Ohio. She received a bachelor's degree from the College of Mount St. Joseph in 1986. She is also a registered nurse.
Kenneth Brown, of Springfield, is a probation officer with more than 15 years of experience. He currently serves as the director of probation for the Clark County Municipal Court. He previously worked as a unit supervisor for the Montgomery County Juvenile Probation Department. Brown received a bachelor's degree from Wright State University in 1984 and a master's degree from the University of Dayton in 1995.
The Ohio Respiratory Care Board regulates and enforces the provision of Chapter 4761 of the Ohio Revised Code for the purpose of improving the quality of respiratory care delivered to the public by respiratory care professionals.
Carol Gilligan, of Lakewood, is the founder and president of Health Aid of Ohio, Inc., a company that offers rehab medical equipment to approximately 6,000 patients in northern Ohio. She serves on the Ohio Association of Medical Equipment Suppliers (OAMES) Medicaid and Medicare committees and is a member of the American Association for Homecare.
Susan Ciarlariello, of Dayton, has served as the director of respiratory care at Dayton Children's Medical Center since 1986. She also serves as director of transport and director of the sleep center for the Medical Center. She received an associate's degree in respiratory therapy from Sinclair Community College in 1975, a bachelor's degree from Antioch University in 1991 and an MBA from Wright State University in 2003.
E. Lucy Kester, of Ravenna, is the education coordinator for the respiratory therapy section of the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. A registered respiratory therapist, Kester has authored several reports dealing with respiratory care. She received an associate's degree from Cuyahoga Community College in 1975, a bachelor's degree from Kent State University in 1980 and an MBA from Cleveland State University in 1987.
The Public Health Council is the primary rule-making body for the Department of Health and its powers and duties are set forth in law. It adopts, amends, and rescinds rules pertaining to public health. It prescribes, by rule, the number and functions of divisions and bureaus and the qualifications of the chiefs of the divisions and bureaus with the Department; and it advises the director of health on matters affecting public health.
David Bitonte, of Louisville, served as the medical director for Ohio KePro, the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization for Ohio, from 2000-2007. He served as a practicing anesthesiologist from 1985-2000. Bitonte received a bachelor's degree from the University of Dayton in 1976, a doctorate from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1980 and an MBA from Youngstown State University in 2003. He is currently in private practice.
The Wildlife Council advises the Division of Wildlife of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources on policies pertaining to preservation of wildlife, management of wildlife based on public hearings or investigations, and has supervision over the wildlife in state parks.
Horace Karr, of Pomeroy, is retired after working nearly 40 years in construction. He also owns and operates a large farm operation in Pomeroy.
James Lynch, of Columbus, is retired after working 33 years in numerous capacities for WBNS TV-10 (CBS), including regional sales manager, local sales manager and account executive. An avid outdoorsman, Lynch is a member of numerous sportsman organizations. He received a bachelor's degree from Ohio University in 1958.
The Savings and Loan Association and Savings Bank Board makes recommendations to the superintendent of financial institutions and the deputy superintendent of savings and loan associations and savings banks on matters relating to the business of savings and loan associations and savings banks.
Dan Stevens, of Bethel, is currently chairman of the board of directors for Bethel Building and Loan Company. He has more than 30 years of experience in the funeral industry, including as owner/president of Kennedy-Stevens Funeral Homes in Bethel from 1973-1997 and as an employee of Carriage Services in Houston from 1997-2007. He attended the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science.
Sandra McNeil, of Greenfield, is the executive managing officer and board member for the Home Building and Loan Company, where she has worked since 1972. She has also served as a member of the Greenfield Area Medical Center Board of Trustees since 1972. A life-long resident of Greenfield, McNeil has served on numerous other city and community boards and organizations.
Robert Smith, of Portsmouth, has been the president and CEO of American Savings Bank in Portsmouth since 1998. He has worked at the bank in numerous capacities since 1966. Smith served as the chairman of the Ohio Bankers League in 2007. He received a bachelor's degree from Ohio University in 1974.
Robert Hamilton, of West Lafayette, has served as chairman and CEO of the Home Loan Savings Bank in Coshocton since 1998. He has worked for the bank in numerous capacities since 1981 and previously served as the vice president of Bank One of Coshocton from 1960-1981. He attended the American Institute of Banking, the Ohio School of Banking and the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin.
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Columbus, Ohio – As Ohio families recognize Mother's Day this weekend, Ohio Treasurer Richard Cordray is trying something new to encourage those moms in their quest for financial security.
The Treasurer's office will make available online its newly-revised Women & Money 2008 Workbook, from Saturday, May 10 through Saturday, May 17. The workbook contains information on a wide variety of personal finance topics and is used as part of the office's annual Women & Money free financial workshops held during the summer. The Workbook is usually distributed only at the workshops.
The most recent statistics from the Institute for Women's Policy Research indicate that female senior citizens in Ohio are nearly twice as likely to live in poverty as their male counterparts. Women of all ages in Ohio are earning about 75 cents for every dollar which men earn, while more than a quarter of the state's households with children are headed by women.
"Women in Ohio are working hard, and raising families... many times, as the sole head of their household," said Treasurer Cordray. "Every bit of financial information they can get will help them balance their needs and their resources. Many of the 3,000 women who attended our Women & Money workshops last year told us that the workbook they took home guided them and reminded them of the steps to take toward financial security. We are now making the newest updates to this educational information available before this year's workshops even begin, in hope of sparking broader resolve to increase our financial knowledge."
The 280-page Women & Money 2008 Workbook has twelve sections covering the following topics: Budgeting, Credit & Debt, Elder Care, Entrepreneurship, Estate Planning, Home Ownership, Identity Theft, Insurance, Investments, Kids & Money, Retirement Planning, and Supportive Financial Attitudes. The Workbook (and each section, which can be downloaded individually) is available for free download during the week of Mother's Day. A gift card option will be available for Web site visitors to send, for those who wish to offer a link to the Workbook as a Mother's Day gift. The workbook and other information can be found at www.YourMoneyNOWOnline.org.
The Workbook will also be distributed to attendees of Treasurer Cordray's 2008 Women & Money workshops. These free conferences will be held between May 5 and July 14 in the following Ohio cities: Dayton, Youngstown, Cincinnati, St. Clairsville, Toledo, Lima, McArthur, Columbus, Akron, and Cleveland.
To learn more about the Women & Money workshops, or to sign up for one in your area, call 1-800-228-1102 or visit www.YourMoneyNOWOnline.org.
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Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife has some strong advice for well-meaning people who seek to rescue wild animals that appear to be orphaned: Leave them alone!
Every year, wildlife officers, biologists and licensed rehabilitators attempt to educate local residents about the hazards of handling wild animals. Despite their cute, and sometimes helpless appearance, wild animals are capable of biting, scratching and transmitting diseases to humans and domestic animals.
Many people believe that they are doing the right thing by rescuing a young wild animal and think that hand raising is a good alternative to being raised in the wild. This could not be further from the truth as a hand-raised wild animal, even under expert care, has little chance of long-term survival once released to the wild.
State and federal laws protect and regulate all wildlife species in Ohio and only individuals who obtain a special permit from the Division of Wildlife may possess a native wild animal. Because of the difficulties in providing the proper care and diet for wild animals, only specially trained and licensed wildlife rehabilitators are authorized to take them in from the wild when they are found to be truly orphaned or injured.
Each year, wildlife officers issue summons to individuals who have taken wildlife, particularly fawns, out of the wild, even if their intent was to help the animal. When a wildlife official receives a call regarding a fawn, the first thing they do is advise the person to take the animal back to where they found it.
A doe will protect her young from predators by leaving it alone for long periods of time. The fawn may be hidden in a hay field, a grassy meadow, the edge of a homeowner's lawn, or even in a flowerbed. Regardless of where she left the fawn, the doe will stay away until after dark then return to nurse it. If the doe is nowhere in sight, some people mistakenly believe the fawn is abandoned and try to help it by taking it out of the wild.
Wild animals have a better chance of survival if left alone in the wild. Studies have shown that more than half of the fawns that are brought in by well-meaning people do not survive rehabilitation and most of the remaining animals die shortly after reentry to the wild. Additionally, handling stresses the animal, and excessive handling can make the animal defensive or can ultimately contribute to its death.
A common belief is that once young wildlife has been touched or handled by humans the mother will no longer have anything to do with it. This is not so, while wildlife officials discourage people from handling wild animals, there are rare occasions when it may be necessary. If a nestling bird has fallen out of a tree, or your child has plucked a young rabbit from its nest, pick it up and put it back in the nest immediately. Do not attempt to hand raise it.
Wild animals can carry parasites or diseases harmful to humans and pets, including distemper, roundworms and rabies. The risk of disease is another good reason to leave wildlife in the wild.
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Wednesday, May 7, 2008, 9:00am - 11:30am
ODOT Central Office - 1980 W. Broad Street, Columbus
Webcast Address: TransportationForTomorrow.ohio.gov
Columbus, Ohio – Already attracting a diverse mix of public input and research from around the nation, Ohio's first-of-its-kind "Transportation Conversation" will gain more momentum as the Ohio 21st Century Transportation Priorities Task Force comes together for its Inaugural Meeting at the Ohio Department of Transportation's Central Office in Columbus.
Speaking at the Inaugural Meeting will be Ohio Governor Ted Strickland, ODOT Director James Beasley, Task Force Chairman Ty Marsh, and Ohio Treasurer Richard Cordray. Task force members will also hear from other statewide and national transportation leaders and industry experts.
The event also features Frank Busalacchi, current Wisconsin Secretary of Transportation and co-author of the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study, which reviewed the current condition of the nation's transportation system, identifying future needs and financing options with the federal gas tax.
Ohioans have been joining the "Transportation Conversation" by submitting ideas and opinions online at TransportationForTomorrow.ohio.gov. The site will show a live webcast of the Inaugural Meeting as well as provide new information on a series of public meetings scheduled across the state.
The Ohio 21st Century Transportation Priorities Task Force has brought together experts from both private and governmental sectors, with backgrounds ranging from business and industry, shipping and logistics, finance and development, urban planning and agriculture, education and health care, transportation, and state and local government.
This statewide conversation - designed to envision Ohio's future transportation system - centers on three key issues: promoting a multi-modal system, generating economic development, and maximizing public investment. The complete list of task force members is also at TransportationForTomorrow.ohio.gov.
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today proclaimed May 11-17 as Ohio Senior Center Week to recognize the work that senior centers, their staff and volunteers do to enrich lives and strengthen communities.
"Senior centers are often the point at which Ohio's network of dedicated aging services professionals connects to the community," said Strickland. "They are not only providers of services that help residents maintain independence and dignity, but they also serve as focal points, bringing generations together and providing older Ohioans, baby boomers and many others with meaningful and valuable activities."
More than 400 full- and part-time senior centers in Ohio have locations, staff and programs that uniquely reflect the diversity of the people they serve. Services include social activities, educational programs, trips, volunteer opportunities, exercise, wholesome meals and more.
Centers also play a crucial role in Ohio's social services system, through home-delivered meals, transportation and other valuable services. Working in concert with the Ohio Department of Aging and other service providers, senior centers strive to promote the dignity, self-determination and well-being of older Ohioans.
"Just as many in the community have come to rely on their senior centers for activities, services and supports, centers rely on community support to thrive and grow," said Barbara E. Riley, director of the department. "We hope that all Ohioans will take time this week to learn more about their local senior centers, find out what is available there and ask how they can become involved or help."
The Department of Aging proudly partners with OASC, a membership-based trade organization that represents and supports the state's senior center network, to promote the senior center network. Visit www.goldenbuckeye.com/about/seniorcenters.html for an interactive list of senior centers throughout the state.
Senior Center Week 2008 falls during Older Americans Month, a national observance held each May. Most Ohio senior centers will organize events to celebrate seniors throughout the month. Visit www.goldenbuckeye.com/oam/ for information about events in your area.
Ohio's Senior Center Week coincides with the annual conference of the Ohio Association of Senior Centers (OASC), May 12-14, at the DoubleTree Hotel Columbus/Worthington.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio smokers who've gone online in search of cheap cigarettes may find out that it cost them more than they anticipated. This week, the Ohio Department of Taxation has begun mailing letters that bill Internet purchasers for unpaid cigarette excise and sales taxes.
The department is mailing out a total of 5,469 bills over the next few weeks for a total of $2,153,775 in uncollected cigarette and sales taxes. These bills represent the Ohio taxes due – but unpaid – on cigarette purchases made online between July 2007 and March 2008.
"Our goal here is to enforce the law, out of fairness to consumers who do play by the rules and to Ohio business owners who are operating responsibly," Tax Commissioner Richard A. Levin said.
An individual in northern Ohio is receiving the largest single bill, totaling $2,700. Most of the bills are $600 or less.
The federal Jenkins Act requires vendors who sell cigarettes across state lines to report those sales to the states in which the sales are made. The department asked for and received the names, addresses, and quantities of cigarettes sold to Ohio customers by five Internet vendors.
Ohio law requires that all sales of cigarettes in the state be made "face-to-face," which means they cannot legally be purchased via the Internet. The last time the state billed for unpaid cigarette taxes, in 2006, it collected $568,807 from 1,610 individuals for online purchases made since 2002.
Cigarettes sold in Ohio are subject to both excise and sales taxes. The current state excise tax on a pack of cigarettes is $1.25. There is an additional tax of 34.5 cents per pack in Cuyahoga County. The state sales tax rate is 5.5 percent, plus additional county and transit authority "piggyback" sales taxes that add between 0.5 and 2.25 percentage points, depending on the location. These taxes are due on all purchases on which they have not already been paid.
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today signed into law Senate Bill 221, a landmark energy reform bill that will ensure predictability of affordable energy prices and serve as a catalyst to enhance energy industries in Ohio, bringing new jobs while protecting existing jobs.
Strickland made the following comments today before signing SB 221 in the Ohio Statehouse Atrium.
"One year ago today I spoke to the Toledo Chamber of Commerce and outlined a set of principles to guide our efforts in transforming our electric structure in the State of Ohio.
These principles were focused on:
Today I am proud to say that with the help of legislative leaders in both parties we have kept our word to Ohioans on these important and guiding principles.
This bill, Senate Bill 221, will ensure predictability of affordable energy prices and maintain state controls necessary to protect Ohio jobs and businesses.
We will safeguard Ohio families by empowering consumers and modernizing Ohio's energy infrastructure.
And we will attract the jobs of the future through an advanced energy portfolio standard–and today's action by Ohio means that a majority of states now agree that these technologies represent the future of energy in the United States.
This requirement means that 25% of the energy sold in Ohio must come from advanced and renewable energy technologies–from clean coal to wind turbines–by 2025.
This could not have been accomplished without the hard work of many of you here today as well as citizens across the state–and I want to thank you for your tireless efforts to get us to this point and remind you that you will continue to play a vital role as we work to implement this plan.
Staff at the Public Utilities Commission, and its commissioners, deserve an enormous amount of gratitude for the work they have already begun and will continue to do as we see these legislative objectives through to the finish line.
I am proud to be here today with Ohio's legislative leadership. We can all be proud of this bill."
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland and the Ohio Department of Aging today officially kicked off Older Americans Month in Ohio. The President of the United States designates each May as a time to celebrate the accomplishments of older citizens, express gratitude for their contributions to society and encourage them to live vibrant, meaningful lives. Ohio's theme for Older Americans Month 2008 is "Loving Life, Helping Others, Supporting Communities."
"Ohio is a great place to live in large part because of the contributions of our senior citizens," said Strickland. "They improve their communities through activities such as volunteering and caregiving, and as employees are irreplaceable to many, many businesses throughout the state."
"Seniors are not only the foundations of their families, but also can be cornerstones of their communities," added Barbara E. Riley, director of the Department of Aging. "Older Ohioans are caregivers, teachers, volunteers, mentors, employees, co-workers and community leaders. By staying engaged and sharing their experiences and talents, they enrich the lives of their neighbors and strengthen their community and the state."
The Department of Aging encourages communities, senior centers, organizations and individuals to organize public events to celebrate Older Americans Month and Senior Citizens Day on May 20. Local events traditionally include health fairs, luncheons, dances, outings, day trips and more. The department has a special Web page, www.goldenbuckeye.com/oam/, that lists activities throughout the month from across the state. The site also includes posters, logos and sample materials to help organizations plan and promote celebrations.
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Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland, Assistant Secretary for Aging at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Josefina G. Carbonell, and leaders from the Ohio Departments of Aging and Insurance today announced the launch of a public awareness campaign designed to encourage Ohio's baby boomers to begin considering their future long-term care needs and to begin planning early.
The "Own Your Future" long-term care awareness campaign is a joint federal-state initiative to increase awareness among the American public about the importance of long-term care planning.
"According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, about nine million men and women over the age of 65 needed long-term care in 2007. Discussions about the long-term care needs of an aging family member can be difficult, and are too often put off until a loved one needs care," Strickland said. "The 'Own Your Future' campaign is a great first step toward helping Ohio families have meaningful discussions and make decisions about long-term care needs before those types of services are needed."
The campaign will stress the importance of healthy lifestyles, will encourage legal and estate planning and will describe and explain various tools and products that could be useful to individuals. An additional goal of this campaign is to highlight for consumers the importance of not only deciding now what types of services they would like to receive and where, but also exploring the best ways to pay for the services they choose.
"Perhaps one of the most important aspects of planning for the future is knowing what resources and assistance are available in your own community," said Barbara E. Riley, director of the Ohio Department of Aging. "Ohio's twelve area agencies on aging can help consumers of any age identify their preferences and needs and develop a plan that is right for them."
Public service announcements are airing on television and radio stations statewide. The Department of Health and Human Services will mail letters to 1.7 million Ohio households with residents between the ages of 45 and 65, encouraging the recipient to request a free, Ohio-specific planning guide for long-term care. Officials expect to distribute more than 100,000 guides.
"Advance planning for long-term care needs can help you and your loved ones in many ways," said Ohio Department of Insurance Director Mary Jo Hudson. "Long-term care planning does not necessarily take the place of having family members care for their loved ones. It helps ensure that individuals and their families have choices when the time comes."
The campaign will include a series of regional forums around the state, coordinated with the area agencies, to give Ohioans a chance to talk with professionals in their communities about long-term care. Residents with an immediate need for long-term care may call their area agency on aging toll-free at 1-866-243-5678 to request a free personal assessment by a professional long-term care planner.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio EPA will oversee a new Ohio law taking effect now requiring recycling of all used lead acid batteries. Battery disposal will be prohibited at solid or hazardous waste disposal facilities. Lead acid batteries are found in motor vehicles, motorcycles, wheelchairs, boats or other motorized sources.
The law requires any person who generates a lead acid battery to recycle it. They can be delivered by individuals to a retailer, wholesaler, secondary lead smelter, automotive repair business, a household hazardous waste collection event, or a recycling entity that accepts lead acid batteries.
In addition, the new law will require retailers and wholesalers of lead acid batteries to take back spent consumer lead acid batteries for recycling. The new law requires retailers and wholesalers to display signs explaining recycling requirements to consumers. It also requires establishments to ensure that spent lead acid batteries received from consumers are delivered to a recycling facility.
The law exempts batteries used in consumer products like computers, electronic games, telephones, radios and similar electronics. Ohio joins a growing list of states and at least one municipality that have adopted mandatory battery recycling requirements in recent years. For more information on the new law, visit http://www.epa.state.oh.us/dhwm/pdf/LeadAcidBatteryGuidance.pdf.
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Columbus, Ohio – As part of the Ohio Department of Insurance's Auto Insurance Awareness Month, the Department of Insurance and the Bureau of Motor Vehicles are teaming up to inform consumers about the state's minimum coverage requirements for automobile insurance.
"Many Ohioans think they can save money by purchasing only the bare minimum requirements," said Insurance Director Mary Jo Hudson. "While minimum coverage does cost less, Ohioans need to realize that auto insurance minimum requirements don't always provide adequate coverage in the event of an accident."
"Vehicle owners should also realize they need to carry insurance on all vehicles that are registered, including those that are inoperable," said Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles Registrar Mike Rankin. "Many people assume they can cancel the policy if the vehicle is not being driven."
Ohio law requires drivers who purchase automobile insurance to demonstrate Financial Responsibility (FR) to have at least $12,500 of Bodily Injury or Death Liability Coverage per person ($25,000 for 2 or more persons), as well as $7,500 of Property Damage Liability Coverage for any one accident. However, many times accidents result in damages that exceed those minimum coverage limits. If the at-fault driver's insurance policy limits are exceeded, then the at-fault driver may be personally responsible to pay the difference not covered by the automobile insurance policy.
If the driver didn't have the funds to pay for the damages, they could face legal action and long-term debts. If the driver's child was driving a car that was underinsured and was in an accident, they too would be held responsible for any damages and could face significant debt. The driver and the driver's family could end up paying for one accident for the rest of their life! The Department of Insurance and Bureau of Motor Vehicles strongly encourage consumers to talk with their insurance agent to discuss the risks of only getting the bare minimum levels of insurance.
The Department's new Auto Insurance On-Line Toolkit, available at www.ohioinsurance.gov, provides guidance on auto insurance needs for different life stages, information on state minimum requirements and a list of frequently asked questions about auto insurance. There are also links to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and National Association of Insurance Commissioners' (NAIC) web site.
Ohio drivers with questions concerning Financial Responsibility requirements are encouraged to call the Bureau of Motor Vehicles at 614-752-7500 or visit the Bureau's web site at www.bmv.ohio.gov.
Ohio insurance consumers with questions and concerns about their insurance can call the Department's consumer hotline at 1-800-686-1526. Free information can also be obtained at www.ohioinsurance.gov.
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Columbus, Ohio – Legislation signed by Governor Ted Strickland last week means that businesses engaging in delivery sales within Ohio will soon return to the state's traditional way of calculating the sales tax: at the origin of the sale.
An emergency clause in the newly-signed bill – House Bill 429, sponsored by Rep. Bob Gibbs, R-Lakeville – allows Ohio businesses now charging sales taxes based on the destination of their Ohio delivery sales to switch back to the traditional "origin" method as soon as the start of next month if they wish. Merchants who moved to destination sourcing of delivery sales have until Jan. 1, 2010 to switch back to the traditional method, according to the new law.
The new law is, in part, a response to small business owners who considered destination sourcing more complex than Ohio's traditional "origin" method. "This law balances the needs of small business owners with the goal of creating a more level playing field for all Ohio businesses when it comes to Ohio's sales tax," Tax Commissioner Richard A. Levin said.
The vast majority of Ohio merchants have always collected and remitted sales tax based on the location of their store. For them, little will change. H.B. 429 also means no change for out-of-state retailers selling into Ohio; they continue to collect sales taxes based on the rate at the destination of the sale, as they do today.
But the new law means big change for a relatively small group of merchants who engage in delivery sales of tangible personal property, such as furniture stores and appliance stores. Since 2006, Ohio had been gradually moving such merchants to "destination sourcing" of the sales tax – charging sales tax based on the destination of the delivery rather than the location of the store.
This transition was part of Ohio's effort to become a full member of the Streamlined Sales Tax Project, a multi-state effort to harmonize sales tax rules across state lines and simplify compliance for multistate businesses. For years, the multistate group required states to move to destination sourcing in order to become full members.
As a result, approximately 55 of Ohio's largest delivery sellers were required by Ohio law to move to destination sourcing in 2006. A relatively small number of other delivery sellers – probably under 1,000 – voluntarily switched to destination sourcing in anticipation of a Jan. 1, 2008 deadline.
That deadline never came. Last summer, in response to concerns from small businesses, the General Assembly put the shift to destination sourcing of delivery sales on hold. Later, in December, the Governing Board of the Streamlined Sales Tax Project decided to allow "origin states" to become a full member of the organization starting in 2010 as long as at least four other "origin states" are also ready to become full members.
H.B. 429 is a response that moves Ohio back into the origin camp.
Merchants who switched to the new destination sourcing system and who will now be switching back per H.B. 429 will eventually be eligible for compensation of up to $1,000 (for mandatory switches to destination sourcing) and $600 (for voluntary switches). The compensation won't be available until July 1, 2009 at the earliest; more information will be available later on this subject from the Department of Taxation.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio will focus on cancer screening, preventive care and chronic disease management as it joins eight other states in an effort to improve performance across targeted health care quality indicators.
"Continuous quality improvement in health care leads to a better quality of life for Ohioans," said Cynthia Burnell, director of the Office of Healthy Ohio. "This will allow us to better focus our efforts in screenings, preventive care and management of chronic diseases such as diabetes."
Ohio will focus on two crucial health care indicators: 1) increasing the percentage of Ohioans 50 and older who receive recommended screenings, such as colon cancer screenings, mammograms; and preventive care, such as flu shots, and 2) helping Ohioans with diabetes receive the recommended preventive care to them manage their disease and prevent or delay complications.
Along with Colorado, Kansas, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Mexico, Oregon, Vermont and Washington, Ohio was selected through a competitive process designed to identify states with the "commitment, leadership and resources necessary to build on past successes." States will also implement new quality improvement initiatives geared toward achieving a high performing health care system in the United States, according to AcademyHealth and the Commonwealth Fund, backers of State Quality Improvement Institute.
The Office of Healthy Ohio, created by Strickland in 2007 and housed at the Ohio Department of Health, will play a key role in continuing, developing and implementing programs to address these and other preventive health issues.
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Columbus, Ohio – Ohio's local property taxes on business machinery, equipment and inventory have long been a source of irritation for Ohio business owners. But, after more than a century and a half, these taxes are about to fade into the history books.
The state's final tangible personal property tax returns are due from businesses on Wednesday, April 30. The returns will cover the 2008 tax year, the last for the tangible personal property tax in Ohio.
The gradual elimination of the personal property tax was a key element of reforms enacted in 2005 by the Ohio General Assembly and embraced by Governor Ted Strickland in his 2008-09 state budget plan. The reforms will mean $3.9 billion in overall annual tax savings by the time they are fully implemented in the 2010 fiscal year, including $1.6 billion annual savings in tangible personal property taxes.
Ohio Tax Commissioner Richard A. Levin said the tax has long been seen as a disincentive to investment. "Every major study of Ohio's tax system has criticized this tax for hurting the state's ability to compete, particularly when it comes to manufacturing," he said. "But this year is the last year for that tax. Next year, it's history."
The tangible personal property tax, Ohio's largest local business tax, can be traced back to 1846, when the Ohio General Assembly enacted a law requiring that all property in Ohio be taxed by uniform rule. Since 1931, state law has limited taxes on tangible personal property to machinery, inventory, furniture, fixtures and other equipment used in the course of conducting business.
The state's assessment rate on tangible personal property is 6.25 percent for the 2008 tax year. Next year, the rate drops to zero – and Ohio will join a select group of nine other states without a general business tax on tangible personal property. Among Ohio's neighbors, all have such a tax except Pennsylvania.
Where business owners file their final personal property tax returns depends on whether the business is located in one county or more than one county. Single-county taxpayers must file with their county auditor; inter-county taxpayers must file with the Department of Taxation. Taxpayers may seek to have the deadline extended to June 15 as long as they make the request by Wednesday.
When taxes are paid also depends upon the location of the business. For a business with property in only one county, the taxpayer can elect to pay half of their tax liability with their April 30 return and the balance by Sept. 20. If a business has property in more than one county, the total tax liability is due by Sept. 20.
The phase out of the tangible personal property tax is part of a larger series of reforms that also include the gradual elimination of the corporation franchise tax and a 21 percent, across-the-board cut in income tax rates. Revenue from a new commercial activity tax (CAT) is being used to compensate schools and local governments for lost personal property tax revenue.
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Columbus, Ohio – The 55 facilities, including three in Central Ohio and seven in Northwest Ohio who voluntarily participate in Ohio EPA's Tox-Minus pollution reduction challenge, will provide significant environmental benefits for Ohio, according to an Earth Week announcement by Ohio EPA Director Chris Korleski. The companies' pollution reduction goals are being publicly released for the first time today.
"I am very pleased with the level of interest shown by our Ohio business leaders and the commitment they are making to set aggressive voluntary pollution reduction goals," Korleski said. He again extended his invitation to all companies to participate in the program.
Korleski proposed the Tox-Minus program last fall to encourage Ohio companies to take additional steps to reduce their emissions of chemicals reported under the Toxic Release Inventory (TRI). He believes that reducing Ohio's TRI emissions will result in a cleaner environment as well as help Ohio attract businesses and workers who value clean land, air and water. Forty-six facilities have submitted facility goals and nine additional facilities have submitted letters of commitment and are working on goals.
Examples of proposed reductions in Central Ohio include:
Examples of proposed reductions in Northwest Ohio include:
Companies submitted their reduction goals last month and some are already being implemented. Participants include some of Ohio's largest manufacturers and a broad range of industries, including auto manufacturers, steel plants and utilities.
The Tox-Minus program has focused on 100 of the top toxic chemical reporters based on 2005 TRI data, but is open to any company that wants to participate. The Office of Compliance Assistance and Pollution Prevention (OCAPP), a non-regulatory office within Ohio EPA, oversees the program and is available to assist companies in identifying pollution prevention and reduction opportunities. More information about the companies participating, including a statewide list, is available at http://www.epa.state.oh.us/ocapp/tox-minus.html.
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Reynoldsburg, Ohio – In celebration of Earth Day, Ohio Department of Agriculture Director Robert Boggs today joined local farmers and community officials in a round table discussion at the Babcock farm in Wellington. During the event, he honored the Babcock family for their conservation and preservation efforts.
"The Babcock farm is a true testament to the spirit of Earth Day and the many preservation and conservation efforts of the state," said Boggs. "This operation is a shining example of what we are moving toward in Ohio – a productive operation that protects as it produces for the masses. By preserving their nearly 950-acre farm, this family is further showing its support of protecting our earth and sustaining agriculture."
Boggs honored Jarvis Babcock, operator of the Lorain County farm, for his conservation practices, which most recently included preserving its nearly 950 acres through the department's Clean Ohio Agricultural Easement Purchase Program. Other conservation practices adopted over the years include becoming 100 percent no-till to reduce runoff and erosion, using grassed waterways to prevent gully erosion, and employing precision fertilization to increase soil productivity and reduce water pollution. The farm also uses cover crops to naturally increase soil productivity and compliment the no-till efforts by reducing erosion in the winter months. In 1987 and 2007 Babcock received the "Outstanding Conservation Farmer" award from the Lorain County Soil and Water Conservation District.
The Babcock farm, owned by siblings Jarvis Babcock, Alice Bradley (Boulder, Colorado), and Catherine Leary (Chesterland, Ohio), is one of 117 farms totaling more than 23,000 acres that have been preserved through the state's Clean Ohio Agricultural Easement Purchase Program. Current program funding will support one last round of farmland easement purchases valued at $3.1 million for 2008. Governor Strickland and the General Assembly are proposing a $400 million bond proposal to renew this and other Clean Ohio efforts.
Earth Day, which began in 1970 as a grassroots effort, has grown into a nationally-recognized observance each year in April as a time to celebrate the environment and assess the work still needed to protect the natural gifts of our planet.
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Columbus, Ohio – Older Ohioans have been a staple of volunteer programs throughout the state for decades, but their sheer numbers and drive for civic engagement today position them to be at the center of social change in their communities, the state and the world. The Ohio Department of Aging proudly supports National Volunteer Week, April 27 through May 3, 2008, and encourages Ohioans of all ages, but especially our older neighbors, to become and stay engaged with a variety of volunteer programs. The 2008 national theme is "Volunteer to Change the World."
"Today's seniors are healthier, more active and better educated than ever before, and they expect and want to remain active past traditional retirement age. For some this means staying in the workplace, but for many it means volunteering their time and talents to a worthy cause," said Barbara E. Riley, director of the department. "With an estimated 12,000 residents turning 60 each month, Ohio stands to benefit greatly from the dedication and altruism of this generation."
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, older Americans donate more than 350,000 hours of their time each year - this includes the work of an estimated 19,000 older Ohioans. They support education, economic development, health care and senior services in their communities. With an increase in the number of available volunteers, many social programs will be able to expand their reach and benefit more people.
The Department of Aging partners with other state entities to provide two unique opportunities for older volunteers.
The department partners with the Corporation for National and Community Service to provide three additional volunteer programs:
The department also supports the Ohio Citizen Corps, a part of the Ohio Homeland Security Task Force that uses volunteers to support local crime prevention and emergency response systems. Learn about these opportunities and more at the Ohio Department of Aging's Web site: www.goldenbuckeye.com/families/volunteer.html.
Many local senior centers or community action agencies also welcome volunteers for a variety of programs. Contact your area agency on aging for more information about what is available where you live. Call 1-866-243-5678 to be connected to the agency serving your community.