State of Ohio News

September 2009

September 30, 2009 – October is Long-term Care Planning Month

Ohioans Encouraged to 'Own Your Future'

Columbus, Ohio – In recognition of October as National Long-term Care Planning Month, the Ohio Department of Aging encourages all Ohioans, no matter your age, to make decisions now about the types of care you'd like to receive as you age, where you'd prefer to receive it and how you will pay for it.

"Seven out of 10 people over the age of 65 will require some long-term care services, and that likelihood increases as we age," said Barbara E. Riley, director of the department. "But, younger people should plan, too. Nearly 40 percent of those currently receiving long-term care are between the ages of 18 and 64."

Ohioans can visit www.longtermcare.gov to learn more about long-term care planning and the options they should consider, as well as download or order the free "Own Your Future" planning kit. Families with an immediate need for long-term care can contact their area agency on aging at 1-866-243-5678 to request a free personal assessment by a professional long-term care planner.

"There is too much money and too many people involved in long-term care for it to be an impulse decision," Riley added. "All issues - from the person's needs and preferences, to the types of care available - need thoughtful and thorough exploration. The 'Own Your Future' kit and the state's area agencies on aging can help."

Paying for care can be expensive: currently about $60,000 a year for a nursing home and $38,000 for home care in Ohio. Average lifetime expenditures for a person who needs long-term care can reach $150,000. Medicare and Medicare supplements generally do not pay for long-term care, and many people qualify for Medicaid only after the costs of long-term care have virtually wiped out all of their financial resources. As a result, they find themselves in a time of crisis with limited choices. Planning, including looking at options for long-term care insurance, can make these decisions easier.

In an AARP survey, most Ohioans said they'd prefer to receive the care they need in their own homes. This is made possible, in large part, due to the contribution and sacrifice of family members and other loved ones who supplement paid professional care in the home. For these families, long-term care can cost the caregiver as well, both in terms of money they spend on care and in terms of lost wages and productivity if they work. Caregiving also takes a physical and emotional toll on a person. A long-term care plan should take family caregiving into account and provide the caregiver with the peace of mind that things will be taken care of should she no longer be able to provide care or the care recipient's condition worsens.

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September 28, 2009 – Department of Natural Resources Approves Grants to Enhance Outdoor Recreation in Ohio

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Parks and Recreation has approved federal and state grants to help develop and improve public access for outdoor recreation facilities in Ohio.

The NatureWorks and Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grants, which ODNR administers, will fund 93 community-based projects that will create and renovate parks and outdoor recreation areas. The grants will provide for the acquisition of more than 370 acres of green space, the construction and resurfacing of more than four miles of walkways and trails, the development and improvement of 25 playgrounds and dozens of other local improvement projects.

ODNR has recommended that $2,609,743 in NatureWorks and LWCF grants be awarded in 2009. For a complete list of grant recipients, visit www.ohiodnr.gov.

NatureWorks provides up to 75 percent reimbursement assistance to local government subdivisions (i.e., townships, villages, cities, counties, park districts, joint recreation districts, and conservancy districts) for the acquisition, development and rehabilitation of recreational areas. The projects are funded through the Ohio Parks and Natural Resources Bond Issue, which was approved by Ohio voters in November 1993. It authorized the State of Ohio "to issue bonds, which will be retired from general state revenues, to finance capital improvements for state and local parks and recreation areas and to preserve Ohio's natural areas and habitats." Additional legislation authorized the creation of the NatureWorks Grant Program.

Similarly, the LWCF provides up to 50 percent reimbursement assistance for state and local government subdivisions (i.e., villages, and cities) for the acquisition, development and rehabilitation of recreational areas. The federal grant program is supported by offshore oil lease revenues and other non-tax sources. Many local parks, trails, pools and other outdoor recreation facilities that Ohioans enjoy today were made possible through the federal program. Since its inception in 1965, more than $150 million has been awarded to projects in Ohio.

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September 25, 2009 – Environmental Protection Agency Launches Study of Water Quality in Central Ohio River Tributaries

Columbus, Ohio – This summer, Ohio EPA began a new study of Ohio River tributaries in five watersheds spanning Washington, Monroe and Belmont counties. These tributaries, known as the Central Ohio River Tributaries, include McMahon Creek, Captina Creek, Sunfish Creek, Weegee Creek, Pipe Creek, Big Run, Newell Run, Narrows Run, Leith Run and Mill Creek. These tributaries flow into the Ohio River at various locations along the eastern and southeastern border of the state.

Through October, Ohio EPA staff will continue to collect chemical, physical and biological sampling data from 67 sites in the study area to learn where water, sediment and aquatic communities are healthy. All Ohio EPA employees carry a photo identification and will request permission from private landowners if access to their property is needed for sampling.

The information staff gathers will be part of a plan to maintain and, where necessary, restore water quality. The sampling will reveal what pollutants are present in the water and characterize the impacts from point source dischargers and nonpoint sources of pollution, including sewage, urban and rural runoff, stream modification and coal mining activities.

Another goal of the sampling effort is to identify where Ohio EPA needs to focus work with local governments, landowners and concerned citizens to find solutions to problems. Ohio EPA is especially seeking local community involvement. Recently, the Belmont Soil and Water Conservation District Office hired a watershed coordinator to develop an action plan specifically for Captina Creek. Additionally, reclamation is planned for Big Run. Furthermore, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources' Division of Mineral Resources Management will be developing an acid mine drainage abatement and treatment plan for McMahon Creek.

Ohio EPA has one of the most advanced water quality measurement programs in the nation, determining the health of rivers and streams through biological data (e.g., fish and bugs), not just chemical data (e.g., bacteria, metals, nutrients). The abundance and variety of collected species, especially those sensitive to pollution, provide vital information Ohio EPA uses to strategically focus funding and other resources for pollution prevention projects. Some fish are temporarily stunned, caught, studied and released. Others are collected for tissue monitoring of parameters like pesticides, PCBs, mercury and lead. Aquatic habitat also is evaluated.

This sampling of the Central Ohio River Tributaries is the first step in developing a water quality restoration plan for impaired portions of the watersheds. Pollution sources can contribute to impairment and affect recreational enjoyment and the quality of drinking water obtained from the watersheds' lakes (e.g., Woodsfield reservoir and three Barnesville reservoirs). Ohio EPA also spent the summer sampling these four reservoirs as part of a separate Inland Lakes Monitoring Program. For more information on this program and lake sampling in Barnesville, go to: www.epa.ohio.gov/dsw/inland_lakes/index.aspx www.epa.ohio.gov/portals/47/nr/2009/august/BarnesvilleNR.pdf.

The federal Clean Water Act mandates that states develop and implement a watershed restoration plan called a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL). A TMDL also signifies the maximum amount of pollutants a creek or river can receive on a daily basis without violating water quality standards. Sampling aims to identify the source and type of pollutants present in the water and the waterways that fail to meet state standards. Such indepth monitoring is a major investment of Ohio EPA resources. More information on the TMDL program is at: www.epa.ohio.gov/portals/47/facts/tmdl_fact_sheet.pdf.

Each year, Ohio EPA collects data from streams and rivers in five to seven different areas of the state. A total of 300 to 400 sampling sites are examined, and each site is sampled more than once. Sampling locations are generally chosen upstream and downstream from sewage treatment plants, industrial discharges, tributaries, streams, dams and where there have been significant changes in land use practices. If Ohio EPA finds that the stream is not meeting water quality goals, then additional measurements may be taken.

The results can take time. Over the course of several months, the data is processed, evaluated and synthesized into tables and written summaries. Typically, Ohio EPA will prepare a report about the survey's findings and send an announcement to local newspapers. Frequently, Ohio EPA offers a public meeting about the findings in the local area about one year after the study's launch. To find out the results of a study, one can also e-mail DSW_TMDL@epa.state.oh.us with the watershed of interest mentioned in the subject line.

More information about the Central Ohio River Tributaries study is at: http://www.epa.ohio.gov/dsw/tmdl/monitoring_CentralOhioRiverTributaries.aspx.

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September 24, 2009 – Department of Natural Resources Events Fill the Calendar this Fall

Weekly ODNR updates provide ideas for outdoor fun this season

Columbus, Ohio – The fall foliage season is here and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) invites Ohioans and out-of-state guests to visit state parks and natural area to experience the state's breathtaking scenery and celebrate the changing season.

In the coming days, Ohio's woodlands will become awash with warm shades of gold, orange and red. The brilliant fall color that is the highlight of the season will contribute to the excitement during these upcoming autumn campouts, festivals and events:

For more information about ODNR events and activities throughout the state this fall, visit www.ohiodnr.gov and click on Fall Foliage. Additional fall events throughout Ohio can be found at discoverohio.com or by calling 1-800-BUCKEYE.

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September 23, 2009 – Public Utilities Commission Issues Winter Heating Season Reconnection for 2009-2010

Columbus, Ohio – The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) today ordered Ohio electric and natural gas utilities to reconnect or maintain service to customers who have been disconnected or threatened with disconnection due to nonpayment of their utility bill. The order also applies to customers seeking to establish new service. This is the 25^th consecutive year that the PUCO has issued this order for winter reconnection.

"We recognize that many Ohioans may be facing economic hardships," PUCO Chairman Alan R. Schriber stated. "For 25 years our winter reconnect order has provided Ohio's struggling families with an opportunity to have their home heating service reconnected or maintained during difficult times."

Under the plan, customers who have had service disconnected because of nonpayment can have their service restored if they pay the amount owed or $175, whichever is less, plus a service reconnection fee of no more than $36.

Customers may utilize the plan to have service reconnected one time between October 19, 2009 and April 15, 2010. There is no income eligibility requirement to use the order. However, participants in the program must also sign up for one of the payment plans available to pay the past-due balance on their utility bill. Customers that have multiple residential accounts may only utilize the winter reconnection order to maintain or reconnect service at the property where the customer resides.

Customers requesting new natural gas or electric service that have no previous balance with the utility may establish new service by paying $175, rather than paying the required security deposit. Customers utilizing the winter reconnection order to establish new service may have the remaining balance of the required security deposit added to their next month's bill.

While the Commission's order pertains only to Ohio's regulated electric and natural gas utilities, the Commission also urges rural electric cooperatives and municipally owned utilities, not regulated by the PUCO, to adopt programs similar to the long-standing Commission policy on winter heating season disconnections.

Last year, more than 347,000 customers utilized the winter reconnect order. Ohio's regulated natural gas and electric utilities supply service to approximately six million residential customers. Consumers with questions regarding their utility service, should contact the PUCO's Consumer Call Center at (800) 686-PUCO (7826).

A copy of today's Commission entry is available at www.PUCO.ohio.gov. Click on the link to Docketing Information System and enter the case number 09-782-GE-UNC.

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September 21, 2009 – Department of Natural Resources Approves Grants to Fund Trail Improvements

London, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Parks and Recreational Services has approved federal grant funding for fifteen projects that will develop and improve recreational trails throughout the state.

ODNR Division of Parks and Recreational Services administers grants including the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Non-Motorized Grants, which funds projects that will encourage public use of recreational trails by improving access for people with disabilities, creating and maintaining trails and facilities and educating the public about the environment and trail safety. The agency has recommended that $1,562,086.41 be awarded for the 2009 grants to develop more than 5.6 miles of new trail, seal coat 13.92 miles of existing trails, construct two bridges and two ADA compliant trailheads and acquire 10.99 acres of abandoned railroad and greenway corridors. All of the recommended projects are associated with a regional or statewide trail system, including the Ohio to Erie Trail, Great Miami River Bikeway and Kokosing Gap Trail.

Through the RTP grants, more than $480,000 will also be invested in motorized RTP projects for the Wayne National Forest and ODNR Division of Forestry.

Funds for RTP are generated by the Federal Highway Administration through the Federal Highway Trust Fund. They represent a portion of the motor fuel excise tax collected from non-highway recreational fuel use: fuel used for off-highway recreation by snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, off-highway motorcycles and off-highway light trucks. The RTP aims to expand the statewide network of trails by supporting local communities' planning, development and maintenance of local trail facilities.

Italics indicates Designated Motorized Project

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September 18, 2009 – Bureau of Motor Vehicles Fee Increases to Take Effect October 1

Increases Part of House Bill 2, Support Ohio State Highway Patrol

Columbus, Ohio – House Bill 2 (the Transportation Budget), which was passed on March 30, 2009, included a number of fee increases that impact the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Some of these changes took effect July 1, 2009 and the remainder will take effect October 1, 2009.

Fees that are increasing October 1 are: Vision Screening Fee (increase of $1.75, impacts all operator license renewal transactions including standard driver license, commercial driver license and motorcycle endorsement), Temporary Tag Fee (increase of $8), Registration for Personalized Plates (increase of $15) and Registration for Initial Reserve Plates (increase of $15). In addition to these changes, a $20 fee has been added for all late license and vehicle registration renewals.

The BMV began notifying customers of these changes on July 1, 90 days in advance, through notifications on the standard mail-in renewal notices sent to each customer with a vehicle registered in his or her name.

These changes in Ohio law are not meant to pass additional burden on to BMV customers, but to fill growing funding gaps for critical public safety services. While the BMV collects and administers these fees, the funds support the operations of the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Fees for driver licensing and vehicle registration support the Patrol because those driving on Ohio's highways are most likely to directly benefit from the services of the Patrol.

Please go to www.bmv.ohio.gov to review the total cost for each transaction impacted by these changes. The information is located in several different places, including: "Fees for Services," "Vehicle Registration and License Plate, click on Vehicle Registration Fees," and is updated on OPLATES for those customers renewing their registrations online.

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September 17, 2009 – Ohio's Top Conservation Farmers to be Honored

London, Ohio – Ohio's top conservation farm families for 2009 will be honored for their long-standing dedication to natural resource conservation on the land they farm during ceremonies at the Farm Science Review near London on September 24. The annual award is sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Soil and Water Resources, Ohio Farmer magazine and Ohio Farm Bureau Federation.

Among the families honored will be Barbara Sinn from Defiance County, Donald Smith of Portage County, the Michel Family of Muskingum County, the Frankenberg Family of Shelby County and Larry and Betsy Moore from Ross County.

Since 1984, the Conservation Farm Family Awards program has recognized more than 131 Ohio farm families for their exemplary efforts of conserving soil, water, woodlands, wildlife and other natural resources on the land they farm. Conservation farm families also host a variety of educational programs, opening their farms to schools, scout groups, farm organizations and others.

"The Ohio Conservation Farm Family Awards recognize farm families who have gone the extra mile in protecting the environment while producing the food and fiber crops that are such an important part of Ohio's economy," said David Hanselmann, chief of the ODNR Division of Soil and Water Resources and coordinator for the program. "The practices these people use to prevent soil erosion and water pollution benefit all Ohioans, and serve as an example of what individuals can do to conserve natural resources."

In addition to receiving $400 each from the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation, the families are also featured in the September issue of Ohio Farmer and receive plaques from Hancor Incorporated. Ohio Farmer has sponsored the Ohio Conservation Farm Family Awards since the program's inception. Nominations are sought annually between January and May.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.gov.

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September 16, 2009 – September 19 Auction Includes Big Screen TVs, Blackberry Phones

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, Sept. 19.

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 Zenith big screen televisions, washers and dryers, a CB radio, Blackberry cellular phones, a salt spreader, a foosball table, a Black and Decker jig saw, Dewalt drills, an aluminum ladder and a treadmill. To view the items, please visit 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, Sept. 23. 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 have generated nearly $321,000 to date during fiscal year 2010.

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 Sept. 19 auction is a vehicle auction, which will be held October 17.

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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September 16, 2009 – Governor Strickland Appoints Lisa Patt-McDaniel as Director of Ohio Department of Development

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today appointed Lisa Patt-McDaniel as Director of the Ohio Department of Development.

Patt-McDaniel, 44, who has served for the past four months as the department's interim director, will continue to lead the department's efforts to accelerate Ohio's economic growth and recovery through job creation and development of our high-growth industries.

"I am incredibly impressed with the leadership, commitment, deep knowledge and sound judgment Lisa has demonstrated not only as interim director but in her years as a leader in economic and workforce development for Ohio," Strickland said. "Lisa has listened to our workers and businesses and knows what they need. Lisa is helping to position Ohio for long-term prosperity."

A veteran of the Ohio Department of Development, Patt-McDaniel will lead the state's efforts to create, retain and attract jobs for Ohio through targeted investments in the state's growth industries and in partnership with the state's regions and higher education institutions.

"Through my work at Development I have seen our state's incredible strengths -- our inventive past and innovative leaders, our agile manufacturing and service industries, our stellar location and our talented workforce," Patt-McDaniel said. "Governor Strickland has directed me to leverage all these strengths to assist Ohio's businesses in meeting the needs of this global economy."

In her short time as interim director, Lisa has already led the Department of Development's work in the launch of the first Ohio Hub of Innovation and Opportunity in Dayton, a collaborative effort from Ohio's Strategic Plan for Economic Development to accelerate our regions' strengths. She was instrumental in bringing this idea from concept to reality.

She has overseen dozens of economic development projects, including expansions for Whirlpool, Eaton Corp., and the Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, as well as the awarding of millions of dollars in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding in programs including energy development and efficiency, community development and infrastructure improvements.

Patt-McDaniel serves as chair and helped the Governor launch the state's Minority Business Advisory Council to further develop Ohio's minority business enterprises and community. She also worked to launch the Ohio Complete Count Committee with Treasurer Kevin Boyce.

"Changing the trajectory of Ohio's economy means building on our existing strengths while continuously innovating and investing in high-growth industries," said Lt. Governor Lee Fisher, who served as department director from 2007 to February of this year. "Lisa knows how to implement our economic development strategy better than anyone and I have absolute confidence in her vision for the department and our state."

Patt-McDaniel has served in several capacities for the Ohio Department of Development since 1990. She is the first woman to lead the department.

Before her appointment in May as interim director, Patt-McDaniel served as director of the Workforce and Talent Division, where she was responsible for implementing the administration's vision for a state workforce system that is competitive in the 21st century demand-driven economy and ensuring that Ohio workers have access to the resources and training they need.

As director of the department's Workforce and Talent Division from March 2007 to May 2009, Patt-McDaniel oversaw the management of the Ohio Investment in Training Program, Workforce Guarantee Program, and the Governor's Workforce Investment Act Discretionary funds. The division also staffs the Governor's Workforce Policy Advisory Board.

Patt-McDaniel previously led the department's Office of Business Development from 1997 to 2000, the department's primary office in working with Ohio companies, as well as companies looking to expand and/or locate in Ohio. The office structures incentive packages, provides information regarding Ohio's business assistance programs and conducts site searches for companies.

She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Policy from Miami University and her Master's of Public Administration degree from The Ohio State University.

As director, Patt-McDaniel will receive a salary of $142,500.

"This is a critical time for Ohio. Never in our recent history has the need been greater for us to work together to help our businesses grow and our workers get the education and skills they need to find and keep good jobs," Strickland said. "Lisa has seen first-hand over the years how the right training, education and resources make a huge difference for our hard-working and skilled Ohio employees."

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September 14, 2009 – Patt-McDaniel, Shanahan Announce Second ARRA State Energy Program Opportunity

$10 Million in Recovery Act Industry Efficiency Resources Mobilized in Ohioe

Columbus, Ohio – Lisa Patt-McDaniel, Interim Director of the Ohio Department of Development, and Mark Shanahan, energy advisor to Governor Ted Strickland, today announced that the Ohio Department of Development's Ohio Energy Office is accepting applications for $10 million in funding available through the Targeting Industry Efficiency grant program. This is the second request for proposals involving the State Energy Program, funded through the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA).

"These Recovery Act resources can be used to strengthen Ohio industries by realizing energy savings and trimming emissions," Patt-McDaniel said. "Ohio can create sustainable jobs and experience long-term economic growth by helping drive down energy costs for our manufacturers and other industry producers."

The grant program is part of Ohio's $96 million proposal for the State Energy Program that was accepted on June 26, 2009 by the U.S. Department of Energy, prompting the release of ARRA funds to the State of Ohio to direct funding to eligible energy projects.

"These grants will help manufacturers across Ohio make significant improvements in energy efficiency," Shanahan said. "These types of projects create long-term jobs and improve our environment by reducing carbon emissions."

Targeting Industry Efficiency, a $10 million program, seeks eligible applicants for energy efficiency improvements in Ohio's targeted industries, such as advanced energy, aerospace and aviation, agriculture and food processing, bioscience and bio-products, instruments, controls and electronics, motor vehicles and parts manufacturing, and polymers and advanced materials. Technologies may include combined heat and power, demand reduction, assessments for carbon mitigation opportunities, improvements in process heat applications, motors and other industrial systems.

Awards will range between $250,000 and $1 million and will be selected through a competitive process. All eligible projects must be located within the State of Ohio, include a match investment of a minimum of 50 percent of total costs, demonstrate completion within 12 months, and provide direct economic impacts in Ohio.

Interested applicants must submit a one-page project summary no later than 5:00 p.m. on September, 28, 2009, at http://recovery.ohio.gov/opportunities/state/. If you have already submitted a summary, you will not be required to submit again. To submit forms on the Web site, applicants should click "submit your proposal", then choose the program category "Energy and Environment" and the subprogram "State Energy Program." Only projects that have submitted initial summaries to www.recovery.ohio.gov will be considered for formal proposals in response to this request.

In addition, applicants must submit complete proposals, which are due to the Ohio Energy Office by 3 p.m. on Friday, October 2, 2009.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act State Energy Program will accelerate the goals of renewable energy development in Ohio, including job preservation or creation, increased energy efficiency, and energy assistance to Ohioans impacted by current economic conditions.

For more information about the Targeting Industry Efficiency grant program and requirements, please visit: http://www.development.ohio.gov/recovery/energy/FundingOpportunities.htm.

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September 11, 2009 – Governor Strickland Orders Flags Lowered to Half-Staff for Patriot Day

Recognizes September 11 as a Day of Service and Remembrance

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland has issued the following proclamation in honor of Patriot Day and has ordered all state and U.S. flags at public buildings and grounds to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Thursday in remembrance of September 11, 2001.

Strickland has also recognized September 11, 2009 as a "Day of Service and Remembrance," and urges citizens to commit to community service on this day and an ongoing basis.

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September 10, 2009 – Ohio Department of Aging Releases Stories About the Great Depression by Those Who Lived It

First of Four Collections of Stories, Lessons and Advice Posted Online

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Aging this week posted the first results of its Great Depression Story Project on the department's Web site, www.aging.ohio.gov/news/greatdepressionstoryproject/. In March and April, 2009, the department solicited stories about the Great Depression of the 1930s from Ohioans who lived through it. The department will release a new collection of excerpts to its Web site each month through December, 2009 (four in total).

"Our hope was to gather recollections and lessons learned that people of all ages today could use for perspective on our current economic situation, as well as some advice for surviving adversity," said Barbara E. Riley, director of the department. "Ohio's greatest generation did not disappoint us. More than 300 individuals sent in their stories of life, adversity and triumph during the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s."

In March, 2009, the department issued a news release asking people to submit their recollections from the Great Depression stories so that the sacrifices they made and the lessons they learned may be shared with other generations currently facing tough economic times. The project garnered statewide and national media coverage. The original April 10 deadline was extended two weeks due to overwhelming interest.

In total, the department collected 313 stories from people in 54 counties all over the state, as well as six individuals from out of state who used to reside in Ohio. About a quarter were submitted via e-mail, the rest via the U.S. Postal Service. The average age of those submitting stories was 85. The oldest subject was 103, the youngest 64.

The submissions presented a diverse range of topics from food and clothing, to employment, home life and differences between then and today. The most common theme throughout the stories was that people, families and communities of that era seemed much more self-sufficient than we are today.

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September 9, 2009 – Governor Strickland Announces Health Information Technology Efforts to Help Reduce Health Care Costs, Improve Quality of Care

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today announced health information technology efforts aimed at reducing health care costs and improving the quality of health care in Ohio.

Strickland designated the non-profit Ohio Health Information Partnership (OHIP), a unique public-private collaboration, as the entity to lead the implementation and support of health information technology throughout Ohio.

The state's 2010-11 biennial budget allocates $8 million in non-GRF funds to the Ohio Department of Insurance to support efforts in health information technology. The Department of Insurance will work together with OHIP to oversee the use of this money and the application for federal resources.

"Advancing health IT efforts can help save resources and improve the quality of health care for Ohioans by providing better and timelier access to comprehensive health information," Strickland said.

The Ohio Health Information Partnership will support the adoption and use of electronic medical records by Ohio's health care providers. The partnership is charged with implementing and overseeing a statewide health information exchange that will improve access to data and patient information by authorized health care providers while ensuring patient privacy. The partnership also will collaborate with industry experts to provide educational, technical, and procurement services to health care providers who need to implement electronic medical records.

"Health care experts and stakeholders have consistently identified the utilization of health information technology as a critical component to lowering cost and improving quality," said Ohio Department of Insurance Director Mary Jo Hudson. "By utilizing a self-sustaining, non-profit entity with broad based representation, Ohio will be able to establish a successful statewide health information exchange and encourage adoption of electronic medical records."

Vice President Joe Biden announced more than $1.2 billion in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) grants for health IT efforts on August 20. This unique partnership will help demonstrate the state's commitment to health IT advancements when applying for ARRA funds and then manage receipt of such funds.

A public forum will be held from 10 a.m.- 11:30 a.m. Friday, September 25, at the Riffe Studio One Theatre, 77 S. High Street, 4th floor. The public forum is open to all interested parties to discuss the state's health IT vision and to solicit feedback. Additional information on OHIP, as well as details about this public forum and future events, is available at www.healthcarereform.ohio.gov/healthit.aspx.

The Ohio Health Information Partnership is currently a subsidiary of BioOhio and has its own independent board. BioOhio is a non-profit that has worked for more than 20 years to build and accelerate bioscience research, industry and education in Ohio.

The initial board includes representation from BioOhio, the Ohio Hospital Association, the Ohio State Medical Association, the Ohio Osteopathic Association, and state government. The partnership will expand its board to include representation from health care payers, the business community, the university system, behavioral health providers, community health centers, and consumers.

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September 8, 2009 – September is National Preparedness Month: Get a Kit

Week Two - Get a Kit - Are you Ready or Are you READY?

Columbus, Ohio – September marks the observance of National Preparedness Month and the Ohio Department of Public Safety (ODPS) is leading a statewide campaign with a diverse group of national, state and local partners to highlight the importance of emergency preparedness and to promote community involvement throughout events and activities.

National Preparedness Month 2009 focuses on changing perceptions about emergency preparedness to help Ohioans understand what it truly means to be READY. Each week during National Preparedness Month, ODPS will be sending a press release or providing information on different areas of preparedness most likely to impact Ohioans.

Week Two calls for action. Get an emergency kit. Expect the unexpected. Your family needs a disaster preparedness kit for life's unanticipated emergencies. Whether trying to respond to or recover from a flood, tornado or snow and ice storm, disaster preparedness is the key to survival and a disaster preparedness kit is a great first step towards protecting yourself and your loved ones. Get a kit.

When you're preparing your emergency kit, make sure you take the unique needs of your family into consideration. Do you have pets that will need food and water? Are there medications you need to include in the kit? If you have a kit, are the medications and food supplies current? You should periodically check your kit for expired items and items that need to be replaced. As the seasons change, so should your emergency kit. You'll need warm clothes and blankets in the winter, lighter clothes, sunscreen and extra water in the summer.

For more information about preparing for or responding to an emergency, including detailed information about making a kit that fits the needs of your family, log on www.Ready.Ohio.gov so you can be sure your family and loved ones are READY.

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September 4, 2009 – Affordable Housing Developments Receive American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Funding from the Ohio Housing Finance Agency

Columbus, Ohio – One hundred affordable housing units are one step closer to becoming a reality with an announcement today by the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA). More than $4.6 million from the Tax Credit Exchange (TCE) program, created in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), has been allocated to Defiance Crossing, Logan Senior Apartments and Mount Vernon Senior Housing.

Defiance Crossing will receive $1,283,376 for the development of 32 single-family lease-purchase homes in Defiance, Ohio. Each home is located near essential residential services such as a grocery store, public transportation and schools and will feature at least three bedrooms.

Logan Senior Apartments will receive $2,505,208 to construct 40 one-story units in Logan, Ohio. The development will provide one-story, garden-style units to residents.

Mount Vernon Senior Housing will receive $863,231 to develop 28 units for senior residents age 55 and older. This is a new construction project and will consist of eight one- and 20 two- bedroom units. The design is one-story with individual front doors to the exterior, but also with access to an interior hallway connecting residents to community spaces within the building.

Through the TCE program, OHFA can convert a portion of the Agency's annual share of federal Housing Tax Credits into grant dollars to provide greater financial support to developers who have found securing investors for the tax credits increasingly difficult. These additional funds will enable developers to immediately begin construction and provide affordable housing and economic stimulus throughout the state.

The Agency was approved to award this monetary funding in late May and began accepting applications from developers on June 15. Additional funding awards, made possible through new programs created in the ARRA, will be announced periodically during the next several months and posted to www.ohiohome.org.

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September 3, 2009 – Governor Strickland Appoints Cathy Collins-Taylor as Director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today announced the appointment of Cathy Collins-Taylor as the director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety.

Collins-Taylor, 52, has served as the executive director of the Ohio Investigative Unit at the Department of Public Safety since March 2007. She will assume the position of director of Public Safety effective on September 19.

"Cathy is an experienced professional whose background in law enforcement and safety has prepared her to lead the Ohio Department of Public Safety," Strickland said. "I am confident that Cathy will be able to work with the divisions within ODPS to ensure the agency is running effectively and efficiently, and with the safety and wellbeing of the public at its forefront."

As executive director of the Ohio Investigative Unit, Collins-Taylor oversees the enforcement of state, federal and local laws with emphasis on liquor, food stamp and tobacco offenses and offers education and professional assistance to law enforcement agencies and the public. She has worked to bring consistency to the seven enforcement offices and oversaw the implementation of new systems and tools that allow agents to more effectively carry out investigations.

As executive director, Collins-Taylor has also upgraded agency policies in order to make the division compliant with the Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies.

Collins-Taylor previously served as a branch chief of State and Local Coordination and Domestic Security for Ohio Homeland Security, where she oversaw the creation of the Ohio Response System by coordinating resources from local and state first responders and state agencies.

Prior to joining ODPS, Collins-Taylor spent 26 years in the Columbus Police Department, retiring from active duty in September 2004. She was the first female motorcycle officer in the department's history and helped establish the Exploited Children's Unit. Additionally, Collins-Taylor has served as an instructor at the Ohio Peace Officers Training Academy.

"I'm honored to accept this opportunity to lead an agency that I've called home for more than five years," said Collins-Taylor. "I look forward to continuing to work with the dedicated staff at the Department of Public Safety as we move forward with the department's critical mission of education, service and protection."

Collins-Taylor is a past recipient of the City of Columbus Outstanding Women in Government Award. She graduated from the Ohio State University in 1977 and Columbus Police Academy in 1978.

As director of ODPS, Collins-Taylor will receive a salary of $128,544.

Collins-Taylor resides in Columbus with her husband, Mike, and two daughters.

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September 2, 2009 – Department of Aging Seeks Nominations for Elder Caregiver Awards

Annual Honor Pays Tribute to Personal Dedication, Love and Sacrifice

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Aging today issued a call for nominations for its Elder Caregiver Award. The honor recognizes outstanding individuals of any age who sacrifice their time and independence to provide much-needed care to a loved one who is aging or who has a disability.

Individuals and organizations interested in nominating a neighbor, colleague, family member or friend may submit a nomination online or download a nomination form at www.aging.ohio.gov/news/nominations/. The department will accept nominations through October 15, 2009. Those chosen will receive the award in the spring.

"Ohioans who provide the care and attention their loved ones and neighbors need at home help them avoid nursing home placement and reduce their dependence on formal home health care," said Barbara E. Riley, director of the department. "The care they give saves the state an estimated $10.4 billion each year, but it is invaluable to the care recipient in terms of the independence and choice it gives them."

Caregiving has many faces in Ohio. A caregiver could be a husband helping his wife through a bad spell, a daughter helping her father deal with the ravages of dementia, a good Samaritan who dutifully helps a neighbor with errands and chores, aging parents caring for a son or daughter with a disability - there are many more examples.

To be eligible for the Elder Caregiver Award, either the caregiver or care recipient must be age 60 or older. One must also be a current resident of Ohio and caregiving for which they are nominated must not be job-related. The department will select honorees from all over the state to symbolically represent all Ohioans who give their time, their resources and themselves to improve the quality of life of those around them.

Nominations will be evaluated on the severity of the care recipient's condition, the degree of difficulty of care provided, any unique or innovative approaches to caregiving used by the nominee, any special circumstances or barriers the caregiver faces, how the nominee utilizes the resources and assistance available to him or her and the impact of care provided on the caregiver, the recipient and their respective families.

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September 1, 2009 – Life Insurance: Securing Your Family's Future in Case of Unexpected Death

Insurance Director Mary Jo Hudson urges Ohioans to take action during September Life Insurance Awareness Month

Columbus, Ohio – Would your family suffer financially were you to die unexpectedly? During Life Insurance Awareness Month in September, the Ohio Department of Insurance is reminding Ohioans of the importance of securing the financial future for those they love.

"Ohioans should evaluate their need for life insurance as part of their regular financial and estate planning and to ensure they have the right policy for their financial and family situation," Ohio Department of Insurance Director Mary Jo Hudson said. "Anyone with questions about the types of life insurance, how coverage works and for a list of companies and agents that sell it in Ohio can call the Department's toll-free hotline at 1-800-686-1526. Consumers can also visit our life insurance informational toolkit, available at www.insurance.ohio.gov."

Decide How Much You Need

After determining whether to purchase life insurance, the next step is to decide how much coverage you need, for how long and what you can afford to pay. Keep in mind the major reason you buy life insurance is to cover the financial effects of an unexpected or untimely death. Life insurance also can be one of many ways to plan for the future.

Here are some questions to ask before buying:

• How much of the family income do I provide? If I were to die, how would my survivors, especially my children, get by? Does anyone else depend on me financially, such as a parent, grandparent, brother or sister?
• Do I have children for whom I'd like to set aside money to finish their education in the event of my death?
• How will my family pay final expenses and repay debts after my death?
• Do I have family members or organizations to whom I would like to leave money?
• Will there be estate taxes to pay after my death?
• How will inflation affect future needs?

When considering your coverage, be sure to factor in life insurance you currently have, including group insurance where you work or veteran's insurance. Don't forget to include benefits from Social Security or survivor's benefits from a pension plan.

The Right Kind of Policy

All policies are not the same. Once you have determined how much coverage you need, it's time to find out more about the types of policies available. There are two basic types of life insurance: term insurance and cash value insurance.

Term Life Insurance: This policy covers you for a specific number of years, or term, such as 10, 20 or 30 years. It pays a death benefit only if you die in the insured term. Term insurance generally offers the largest insurance protection for your premium dollar. A term life policy has lower premiums than a cash value policy of the same amount; however, it does not build up cash values that can be used in the future. However, please note the cost of insurance will increase with your age.

Cash Value Life Insurance: Premiums are higher at the beginning for this policy than they would be for the same amount of term insurance. With a cash value life insurance policy, the part of the premium that is not used for the cost of insurance builds up cash value. Cash value life insurance may be one of several types, such as whole life, universal life or variable life.

Before You Buy

After you have decided which kind of life insurance is best for you, compare similar policies from different companies to find which one is likely to give you the best value for your money.

A simple comparison of the premiums is not enough, you should consider, for example:

• Do premiums or benefits vary from year to year?
• How much do the benefits build up in the policy?
• What part of the premium or benefits is not guaranteed?
• What is the effect of interest on money paid and received at different times on the policy?
• Remember that no one company offers the lowest cost at all ages for all kinds and amounts of insurance.
• How quickly does the cash value grow? Some policies have low cash values in the early years that build quickly later on. Other policies have a more level cash value build-up. A year-by-year display of values and benefits can be helpful. Your insurance agent or company will give you a policy summary or an illustration that shows benefits and premiums for selected years. Be sure to ask questions to help ensure you fully understand the policy summary.
• Are there special policy features that particularly suit your needs?
• Do you understand how non-guaranteed values are determined? Ask your agent how the policy is affected by interest rate changes, changes in mortality (deaths), profits of the company, changes in the value of the investments supporting the policy, and changes in other key factors.

Who to Contact

Ohioans with questions about life insurance can call the Department's toll-free consumer hotline at 1-800-686-1526. A life insurance informational toolkit is also available on the Department's website at www.insurance.ohio.gov. The toolkit provides tips sheets, publications and a links to helpful web sites.

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