Office of the Governor Press Releases

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland announced today appointments to several state boards and commissions.

The Ohio State University Board of Trustees

Ron Ratner, of Cleveland, serves as an executive vice president and director of Forest City Enterprises, Inc., as well as the president and CEO of Forest City Residential Group. Ratner is a member of the Urban Land Institute and a director of the National Multi Housing Council. He has also served as a member of the Federal National Mortgage Association's National Housing Impact Advisory Council. He received his bachelor's degree from Brandeis University and completed the master's program in architecture at the University of California, Los Angeles.

The University of Toledo Board of Trustees, Student Member

Steven Barker, of Toledo, is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree at the University of Toledo. Barker serves as the chief justice for the Student Judiciary Council and as the student advisor/board member for the Student Judicial Board. He spent the summers of 2006 and 2007 as a counselor for the YMCA children’s summer camp.

The Medical Quality Foundation Board, in a manner consistent with federal income tax exemption status, funds activities to improve the quality of medical care rendered to the public.

Craig Anderson, M.D., of Columbus, is a board-certified pediatrician/neonatologist and active staff member at Grant Medical Center, Columbus Children’s Hospital and Mount Carmel Medical Center. He is currently the president of the Ohio State Medical Association and Central Ohio Newborn Medicine, Inc. Anderson received his bachelor’s degree from Muskingum College in 1973 and his medical degree from the Ohio State University in 1976.

Richard Snow, of Worthington, is the medical director for performance improvement at Doctors Hospital in Columbus. Among his numerous professional affiliations, Snow is a member of the American Osteopathic Association and American Public Health Association. He received a bachelor’s degree from Denison University in 1978, a doctor of osteopathic medicine from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1983 and a master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University in 1991.

Laurence Harkness, of Dayton, served as the president and CEO of Children’s Medical Center in Dayton from 1982-2003. Harkness previously held positions in several professional organizations, including the American Hospital Association, the Association of Ohio Children’s Hospitals, the National Association of Children’s Hospitals and Related Institutions and the Ohio Hospital Association. Harkness received a bachelor’s degree from Rockhurst College in 1962 and a master’s degree from the University of Missouri in 1971.

Molly Katz, M.D., of Cincinnati, has been a practicing physician for 26 years. She is currently in private practice with the office of Drs. Katz, Kade and Hewitt in Cincinnati. Katz is the past president of the Ohio State Medical Association and currently a board member for the Academy of Medicine Foundation. She received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan in 1973 and a medical degree from the Medical College of Ohio in 1977.

The Housing Trust Fund Advisory Committee assists the Ohio Department of Development and the Housing Financing Agency in defining the housing needs and priorities within the state.

Mary Burke, of Cincinnati, has served as the director of Over-the-Rhine Community Housing (formerly the Over-the-Rhine Housing Network) since 1993. The non-profit organization works to build and sustain a diverse neighborhood that values and benefits low-income residents. She is currently a board member for the Coalition on Housing and Homelessness in Ohio. Burke received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Cincinnati in 1987.

The State Independent Living Council works with the Rehabilitation Services Commission to increase the ability for disabled Ohioans to live independently. The council helps these individuals through improved transportation, housing, peer counseling, employment and education opportunities and the promotion of self-advocacy for people with disabilities.

Michael Corbett, of Delaware, is the executive director of Delaware Creative Housing, a non-profit housing corporation, and Creative Living Systems Inc., a non-profit manufacturing and home modification company. He previously served as the contract manager/waiver administrator for the Delaware County Board of Development Disabilities from 1994-2001. Corbett received a bachelor’s degree from Buffalo State College in 1986 and a master’s degree from the University of Denver in 1988.

Nathan Turner, of Holland, is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Wright State University. Turner collaborates with the university’s Office of Disability Services and Physical Support Services to report any obstacles impeding accessibility for disabled students. He currently assists with the Ohio Governor’s Council on People with Disabilities Youth Leadership Forum and previously served as a youth self advocate for the Mayor’s Commission on Disability in Toledo.

Jennifer Smith, of Columbus, is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in disability studies at the Ohio State University. Smith organized the university’s first-ever Disabilities Awareness Month in 2006 and founded the OSU Disability Votes Coalition. Smith is a member of the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities and the OSU Student Council for Exceptional Children.

The Governor’s Council on People with Disabilities is designed to work with the Governor and the legislature to promote the inclusion of persons with disabilities within Ohio.

Tanya Fernandez-Mote, of Columbus, has worked at the Ohio Department of Health’s Bureau for Children with Medical Handicaps since 1992. She is an active board member for the Fishing Has No Boundaries program in central Ohio, which works to provide recreational fishing opportunities for persons with disabilities. Fernandez-Mote received a certificate from the American Institute for Paralegal Studies in 1989.

Erin Riehle, of Terrace Park, has served as the director of disabilities services and co-director of Project SEARCH at the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center since 1998. She previously served as the clinical director for the hospital’s emergency department. Riehle received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Cincinnati in 1981 and a master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati in 1992.

The State Board of Uniform State Laws determines the best means of effecting nationwide uniformity of conveyance, form and execution of laws.

Jeffrey Ferriell, of Columbus, has been a law professor at Capital University since 1987. Ferriell previously taught at Ohio Northern University College of Law and the Ohio State University Law School and has authored several legal books and articles. He received a bachelor’s degree from the Ohio State University in 1975, a law degree from the University of Santa Clara School of Law in 1978, and a master's of law from the University of Illinois in 1983.

The Rehabilitation Services Commission exists to develop programs beneficial to the handicapped.

Joyce Rogers, of Cincinnati, served as the advocacy coordinator for the Center for Independent Living Options, a non-profit agency specializing in cross-disability programs and services, from 2000-2004. She was previously an English and psychology instructor at Cincinnati State Technical and Community College. Rogers has received master’s degrees from Xavier University, the Athenaeum of Ohio and the University of Cincinnati.

David Williams, of Amherst, served as the director of governmental relations for Invacare Corporation, the world's leading manufacturer and distributor of medical equipment used in the home, from 1992 until retiring in 2003. Williams also served as the director of the Governor’s Office of Advocacy for People with Disabilities from 1983-1990. He received a bachelor’s degree from Gannon College in 1972.

The State Chiropractic Board establishes rules to govern the practice of chiropractic medicine and issues licenses for the practice of chiropractic medicine.

John Kennedy, of Blacklick, is currently a partner in the law firm of Crabbe, Brown and James, LLP. Kennedy is formerly a Columbus city council member and judge on the Tenth District Court of Appeals. He is a member of the Columbus Bar Association. Kennedy received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Bridgeport in 1975 and a law degree from Ohio Northern University in 1978.

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

John (Jack) Jensen, of West Carrollton, is the executive director of the First Suburbs Consortium of Dayton, Ohio. Jensen served 24 years as a West Carrollton city council member and is retired from the Dayton Power and Light Company. Among his community activities, Jensen served as the vice-chair of the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission and as director of the South Metro Regional Chamber of Commerce. He received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin in 1963.

Ralph Jennings, of Hamersville, has served as a Lewis Township (Brown County) trustee since 1977 and is currently a member of the Ohio Township Association board of directors. He also represents township government on the Brown County Solid Waste District and serves as the chairman of the Brown County Health Department advisory council.

Stephen Hill, of Mason, has more than 25 years of experience with various environmental management programs at GE-Aviation. He is currently leading the company’s solid and hazardous waste management program for more than 40 national and 10 international sites. He previously served as the environmental, health and safety manager for GE Engine Services. Hill received a bachelor’s degree from Purdue University in 1974 and a master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati in 1979.

The Board of Speech Language Pathology and Audiology adopts rules to ensure ethical standards of practice by licensed speech pathologists and audiologists, determines the nature and scope of examinations to be administered to applicants and evaluates the qualifications of all applicants, and supervises the examination of applicants and determines by rule the minimum examination score for licensure.

Loretta Embry, of Euclid, has worked as a speech-language pathologist for the Cleveland Municipal School District since 1987. Among her duties, Embry is responsible for planning and implementing individualized and developmentally appropriate programs for students at risk. She received a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1981 and a master’s degree in speech-language pathology from Cleveland State University in 1986.

J. Paul Good, of North Lima, served in various positions for the Northeast Ohio School Board Association, the Ohio School Boards Association and the National School Boards Association. He also served 34 years on the Mahoning County Educational Service Governance Board. Good received a bachelor’s degree from Juniata College in 1953.

The Private Waters Systems Advisory Board advises the director of the Ohio Department of Health regarding the revocation or non-renewal of the registration of a private water systems contractor and makes recommendations to the director regarding the amount of surety bond required of private water systems contractors.

Lance Himes, of Hilliard, has been an assistant counsel, with a focus on environmental health issues, for the Ohio Department of Health since 2004. Himes previously served as an associate at D. David Altman Co., L.P.A., a Cincinnati law firm focused primarily on environmental matters. He received a bachelor’s degree from Wittenberg University in 1994 and a law degree from the University of Cincinnati in 1997.

The Board of Motor Vehicle Collision Repair and Registration acts as an advocate on behalf of shop owners by addressing issues of concern to the industry, promotes consumer awareness and education regarding the collision repair process via literature, discussion forums and programs, and investigates and prosecutes violations of the registration law.

Jennifer Haley, of Amelia, serves as the president of Mercedes Benz of Cincinnati Collision Center and as the president and co-owner of Mercedes Benz of West Chester Collision Center. Haley served as a part-time paramedic for the Union Township Fire Department from 1996-2003. She is currently the township clerk/fiscal officer for Batavia Township.

The Midwestern Higher Education Compact Commission exists to provide greater higher education services and opportunities in the Midwestern region. The commission seeks to further the region’s access to, research in and choice of higher education programs for the citizens of Ohio.

David Creamer, of Tallmadge, is the senior vice president for administration at Kent State University. He previously served as the university's vice president for business and finance from 1998-2002. In addition, Creamer held the positions of vice president for finance and planning at the University of Alaska and senior vice president for business affairs at Shawnee State University. Creamer received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University in 1976, a master’s degree from Kent State University in 1986 and a Ph.D. in higher education administration from Kent State in 1990.

The Transportation Review Advisory Council was created by the Ohio Legislature in 1997 to oversee fair distribution of transportation funds. The TRAC is charged with developing and approving a list of projects that will not cause spending to significantly exceed the future predicted to be available by the fiscal forecast.

Robert Brown, of Shaker Heights, is currently the treasurer for Case Western Reserve University. Brown previously served as the capital markets adviser for the U.S. Department of Transportation from 1999-2007. He is a member of the Transportation Research Boards’ finance committee and is a past member of the American Public Transit Association’s board of directors. He received a bachelor’s degree from Princeton University in 1969, a law degree from Harvard University in 1974 and a master’s of law from Georgetown University in 1975. William Brennan, of Whitehouse, has been the president of Associated General Contractors of Northwest Ohio, Inc., in Toledo since 1998. Brennan previously served as the executive vice president for the Home Builders Association of Greater Toledo from 1990-1997. Brennan received a master’s degree in public administration in 1975 and law degree in 1979 – both from the University of Toledo.

The Ohio Quarter Horse Development Commission approves all funds distributed by the Auditor of the State on the order of the State Racing Commission in order to improve and advance the breeding of racing quarter horses in Ohio.

Elizabeth Bernard, of Canfield, is partner at the law firm of Betras, Maruca, Kopp, Harshman and Bernard, LLC. She received a bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University in 1984 and a law degree from the University of Akron in 1988. She is a member of the Mahoning County and Ohio State Bar Associations. Bernard also serves on the board of directors for the Northeast Ohio Quarter Horse Association.

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.

David Beam, of Sabina, has worked on his family’s farm since college graduation. He received a bachelor’s degree in business management from Miami University in 1979. Beam was named National Outstanding Young Farmer by the U.S. Jaycee’s in 1990.

The Council on Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services meets quarterly to review the development of statewide plans for alcohol and other drug prevention, treatment and recovery services and to act as an advisory body to the director of the Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services.

John Aller, of Akron, is currently the executive director for the Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services Board of Stark County. He previously served as the board’s director of program services. Aller received a bachelor’s degree from Kent State University in 1988 and a master’s degree in community counseling from Kent State in 1993. He is a licensed professional clinical counselor and a licensed independent clinical dependency counselor.

Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today signed the following bills:

Senate Bill 144

State Senator Steve Stivers sponsored Senate Bill 144, which allows the Ohio Department of Health to develop a Shaken Baby Syndrome educational program.

Senate Bill 36

State Senator Robert Schuler sponsored Senate Bill 36, which permits local townships that have a population between 3,500-5,000, a previous fiscal year income of $3.5 million, and an appointed town administrator to adopt a limited home rule government. The township will in turn have the authority to enter into contracts with state agencies for street beautification, highway development or other transportation projects.

Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland announced today that the Association of Ohio Philanthropic Homes, Housing and Services for the Aging has endorsed the governor’s energy plan, Senate Bill 221.

“Electricity, gas and other utilities are vital to providing quality health care and housing for Ohio’s senior and disabled populations,” said John Alfano, President/CEO of AOPHA. “The more these costs can be accurately predicted, the more Ohio’s not-for-profit providers of services for older Ohioans can focus their resources to providing frontline care and housing.”

Founded in 1937, AOPHA is a statewide association representing approximately 280 not-for-profit homes, health-related facilities and community services for the aging. Members are sponsored by religious, fraternal, labor, private and government organizations committed to providing quality services for their residents and for older persons in the community at large.

The following organizations have also endorsed the energy plan:

Ohio Manufacturers’ Association, Ohio AFL-CIO, Ohio Farm Bureau, Ohio Partners for Affordable Energy, Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies, Ohio Association of Second Harvest Food Banks, Ohio Corn Growers, Ohio Soybean Association, Ohio Cattlemen’s Association, Ohio Hospital Association, Auto Alliance, Ohio Energy Group, Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio and the Ohio Alliance for Retired Americans.

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today announced that the Ohio Alliance for Retired Americans endorsed the governor’s energy plan, Senate Bill 221.

Highlighting their support for “the principles that protect consumers from spikes in our bills, establish reliability in energy production and delivery, and create Ohio jobs,” the Ohio Alliance for Retired Americans joined the expanding list of organizations endorsing the energy legislation.

The endorsement letter from the Ohio Alliance for Retired Americans is included below.

The following organizations have also endorsed the energy plan:

Ohio Manufacturing Association, Ohio AFL-CIO, Ohio Farm Bureau, Ohio Partners for Affordable Energy, Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies, Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks, Ohio Corn Growers, Ohio Soybean Association, Ohio Cattlemen’s Association, Ohio Hospital Association, Auto Alliance, Ohio Energy Group and the Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio.

Ohio Alliance for Retired Americans Endorsement Letter

November 16, 2007

Office of the Governor of Ohio
77 South High Street, 30th Floor
Columbus, Ohio 43215

Greetings,

The Ohio Alliance for Retired Americans endorses the concepts and the practical realities of the energy policy put forth by Governor Ted Strickland and passed in the Substitute Senate Bill 221. We specifically appreciate the moves to re-regulate pricing - protecting consumers from spikes in our bills, the moves to establish reliability in energy production and delivery, and the moves to create Ohio jobs.

The more than 260,000 retired Ohio workers we represent live on fixed incomes that continue to depreciate against basic costs of aging. The Ohio Alliance for Retired Americans wants to see electric utility rates stabilized. The prospect of huge price hikes when the current caps on rates are lifted is impetus enough for retirees to support re-regulation of electric rates.

Many of the customers who have been left without electricity in the numerous power outages of the past few years are the retired workers of Ohio who live in less modernized areas and are subject to electrical infrastructure failures. It is not just an indignity but also an issue of health and safety. Re-regulation would at least give the older Ohio consumer a voice and a chance to see reinvestment in infrastructure maintenance and upgrades.

As workers we lived through many changes and innovations in the means of production and the delivery of goods and services. Retirees expect to see that progress continue and applaud the incentives for new and advance technology generation and the promotion of renewable resources.

The workforce that is available to replace us is in need of good jobs with good wages. This policy and the implementing legislation as it is currently written work to provide our sons, daughters and grandchildren with productive, meaningful, and sustainable work to move the Ohio economy forward.

The Ohio Alliance for Retired Americans is initiating a grass roots education effort to urge the Ohio House of Representatives to pass Sub SB 221 promptly so that appropriate implementing actions may take place prior to the expiration of the rate stabilization plan.

Very Truly Yours,

David Friesner
President

Sally Steagall
Treasurer

Norman Wernet
State Director

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland announced today the appointment of Mark A. Belinky to the Mahoning County Court of Common Pleas, Probate Division.

Belinky, 55, of Youngstown, has been appointed to the judicial seat that will be vacated December 3 with the retirement of Judge Timothy P. Maloney.

“Mark has spent his career in the probate courts of the Mahoning Valley, and Mark will bring that high-level of expertise and respect as he serves the people of Mahoning County on the bench,” Strickland said.

Belinky has 29 years experience practicing in Probate Courts in Mahoning, Trumbull, Columbiana, Cuyahoga, Stark and Geauga Counties. In addition to his private practice, Belinky has served the Probate Court and community in a number of other roles. He has served as a court appointed counsel for mental health patients and indigent persons subject to guardianship proceedings. Additionally, Belinky has provided free legal services to clients of the Mahoning County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities for nearly 20 years.

Belinky received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University and a law degree from the University of Pittsburgh Law School.

“I am proud to have devoted my professional life to serving those who are disadvantaged, children with special needs, disabled veterans and the elderly in Probate Court,” Belinky said. “I am honored to have this opportunity to continue to serve our community. I thank the governor for the confidence in me to make this appointment.”

Belinky will take the bench on December 4.

Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today made the following statement regarding the passing of Joe Nuxhall:

“Memories of some of my favorite days include the sounds of Cincinnati Reds games on the radio. As a young man, I listened to many ball games when Joe Nuxhall was on the mound. And over the years, I've heard him call many games as an announcer.

“Joe epitomized the positive qualities we look for in sports figures. I join Reds fans, baseball fans, and all Ohioans in mourning his passing and in expressing our admiration for his lifelong contributions to the game and to his home state.

“It’s hard to imagine Joe Nuxhall will ever lose his place in baseball history as the youngest major leaguer. But it’s impossible to imagine he will ever lose his place in the hearts of Ohio baseball fans.”

Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland announced today the appointment of Glenn Derryberry to the Allen County Court of Common Pleas, Probate and Juvenile Division.

“Glenn has proven himself as an exceptional public servant in Allen County through his lengthy experience as a magistrate,” Strickland said. “I have no doubt he will exhibit the same integrity and fairness as judge of the common pleas court.”

Derryberry fills the judicial seat vacated by the retirement of Judge David Kinworthy.

Derryberry, 56, of Lima, has served 18 years as Judge Kinworthy’s chief magistrate in the juvenile court, where he has handled every type of case within its jurisdiction. He also worked extensively with community leaders in the creation of the Allen County Juvenile Treatment Court, the local court drug program, and continues to be involved in the treatment court’s programs.

Derryberry worked as a private practice attorney with an emphasis on criminal and family law in Lima and Wapakoneta from 1977-1989. During that period, Derryberry also held the positions of assistant attorney general for the state of Ohio (1982-1983), assistant Lima city prosecutor (1982-1984) and Auglaize County public defender (1981-1982).

Derryberry currently serves as a member and immediate past president of the Allen County Bar Association. He is a member of the Juvenile Law and Family Law Committees of the Ohio State Bar Association and has held several positions in the association since joining in 1977.

Derryberry received his bachelor's degree from Bowling Green State University in 1973 and his law degree from Ohio Northern University in 1977.

“Having the opportunity to serve as a judge in Allen County is a great honor,” Derryberry said. “I look forward to carrying out the responsibilities of the court and continuing its long tradition of excellence.”

Derryberry will begin his duties on the court November 19.

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today signed House Bill 194.

HB 194, sponsored by state Representative Jim Zehringer, will allow joint township hospitals to hold executive sessions to discuss trade secrets. Under current law, county and municipal hospitals are permitted to hold executive sessions for this purpose.

Columbus, OH – The following is the text of the resolution that Ohio Governor Ted Strickland will sign in recognition of Veterans Day on Sunday, November 11:


Frances and I join with all Ohioans in thanking our veterans for their service, sacrifice, and dedication to Ohio and our Nation. As home to over one-million veterans, Ohio is made richer by their continued contributions to our communities.

Veterans Day is a time to acknowledge those who have given their strengths and talents to protecting the freedom we have today. In times of conflict and of peace, our men and women in the armed forces defend their fellow citizens and the country they love. They and their families shouldered great responsibility and lived up to the highest standards of duty and courage.

At this moment, as men and women protect Ohio in theaters across the globe, we are reminded of what veterans have done to ensure the values and privileges we all enjoy.

I call upon all Ohioans to recognize veterans through ceremonies and other appropriate activities not only today but throughout the year.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Ted Strickland, Governor of the State of Ohio, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2007, as Veterans Day.

On this Eleventh Day of November 2007;

Ted Strickland
Governor

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland will sign Senate Bill 116 on Sunday.

SB 116, sponsored by state Senator Joy Padgett, immediately ends the reduction of unemployment compensation benefits by the amount of Social Security an individual receives when utilizing both of these programs.

“This is a matter of basic fairness for Ohio seniors,” Strickland said. “I’m happy to sign this long-overdue legislation to ensure that Ohio’s seniors receive benefits they are due.”

Strickland will sign SB 116 on Sunday because an emergency clause included in the bill will make the bill go into effect immediately. Sundays are the first day of the unemployment compensation benefit week and by signing the bill on a Sunday the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services will ensure a smooth and cost-effective implementation of the offset.

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland announced today appointments to several state boards and commissions.

The Ohio Rail Development Commission is charged with developing, promoting and supporting safe, adequate and efficient rail service throughout the state.

Jolene Molitoris, of Dublin, was appointed as chair of the Ohio Rail Development Commission. Molitoris was appointed as the first woman Federal Railroad Administrator by President Bill Clinton in 1993. She has served as the executive director of the Ohio Rail Transportation Authority (ORTA) and the deputy director of rail for the Ohio Department of Transportation. Molitoris received a bachelor’s degree from the Catholic University of America in 1963 and a graduate degree from Case Western Reserve University in 1964.

The Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board is a state agency responsible for the regulation of counselors, social workers and marriage and family therapists in the State of Ohio.

Timothy Brady, of Peebles, has served as the Vinton County Clinic Director for Tri-County Counseling and Mental Health Services, Inc., since 2004. He was previously the clinical director for Brown County Counseling from 1992-2004. Brady received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio Northern University in 1976 and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Tennessee in 1977.

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

Dr. Marsha Pyle, of Solon, is a faculty member and associate dean for education at the Case Western Reserve School of Dental Medicine, where she directs the curriculum in geriatric dentistry and teaches physical evaluation. Pyle practiced general dentistry for more than 15 years prior to joining the dental school faculty. Pyle received a bachelor's degree from Ashland College in 1976. She is a 1984 graduate of the Case Western Reserve School of Dentistry.

The Real Estate Appraiser Board oversees the operation of the real estate appraiser certification program and requires the Superintendent of Real Estate to administer and enforce the certification program.

Michael Koren, of Columbus, is president of MJK Consulting. Koren previously served as an executive assistant for business and industry in the Ohio Governor’s Office from 1996-2000. Koren was the chief administrative officer for the Ohio Industrial Commission from 1995-1996. He received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University in 1973.

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.

William Bousquet, of North Madison, has 38 years of mining experience, including 25 years as a union safety representative at the Morton Salt mine at Fairport Harbor. He currently works in the surface maintenance department at Morton Salt. Bousquet served on the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Underground Mine Safety Task Force in 2006 as a representative from the United Steelworkers of America.

The Forest Advisory Council advises and makes recommendations to the chief of the Division of Forestry at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources concerning forestry programs in the state. The Council may also assist the division in promoting cooperation on forestry practices and programs with other agencies, political subdivisions and private interests.

Clint Manns, of Coshocton, is the regional wood procurement manager at Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation Forest Resources, where he has worked since 1979. He previously served as the area wood procurement manager and procurement forester at the company. Manns received a bachelor’s degree in forest science from Pennsylvania State University in 1979.

The Governor’s Council on Juvenile Justice should exercise leadership in improving the quality of the juvenile justice system in the state.

John Thomas Mullen, of Lakewood, is currently the president and CEO of Catholic Charities Health and Human Services in Cleveland. Before joining Catholic Charities, Mullen served as the director of the Ohio Department of Youth Services from 1985-1987. He received a bachelor’s degree from LeMoyne College in 1966 and a master’s degree from Syracuse University in 1970.

Linette Fout, of Chillicothe, is currently the group leader at Lighthouse Youth Center in Bainbridge, where she helps manage the facility’s established treatment program. She previously served as a youth worker/case manager at the Center. Previously, Fout was the prevention coordinator for Athens County Juvenile Court from 2000-2003. She received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University in 2001.

Michael Carter, of Vandalia, is the program manager for Sinclair Community College’s Fast Forward Center. He previously served as a unit principal and teacher for Trotwood-Madison High School in Trotwood. Carter has worked with several local organizations, including the Youth Connections Alternative School and Montgomery County Juvenile Court, to establish programs geared toward at-risk students. Carter received a bachelor’s degree from Wittenberg University in 1982 and a master’s degree from Wright State University in 2001.

Sarah Lewis, of Fremont, has worked with the Sandusky County Juvenile Court since 1999. Since 2004, she has been the director of the county’s Genesis Program, an after-school program that focuses on redirecting the criminal thinking of high-risk juveniles on probation. Lewis previously served as a community service crew leader for the AmeriCorps National Service Program.

The Ohio Private Investigation and Security Services Commission should advise the director of the Department of Public Safety on all matters related to the regulation of private investigation and the business of security services, as well as the format, content, and all other aspects of private investigation and security services licensure examinations.

Gary Wolske, of Garfield Heights, has been a police officer for the Garfield Heights Police Department for 27 years, serving the last 13 years as a lieutenant. He has held the positions of shift supervisor, shift commander, jail administrator and currently administrative lieutenant. Wolske is currently the president of the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 67. He received an associate’s degree from Cuyahoga Community College in 1986.

The Ohio Arts Council was established to foster and encourage the development of the arts in Ohio and to preserve Ohio’s cultural heritage. The council operates various grant funding programs to provide support to artists and broaden the availability of arts activities in Ohio.

Mary Lazarus, of Columbus, is a co-founder and member of the board of trustees for the Women’s Fund of Central Ohio. Throughout her years of community involvement, she served on the boards of trustees of Action for Children and Thurber House and as a community volunteer for the Children’s Defense Fund of Ohio. Lazarus was awarded the YWCA Women of Achievement Award in 1994. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Wellesley College in 1950.

The Council on Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services meets quarterly to review the development of statewide plans for alcohol and other drug prevention, treatment and recovery services and to act as an advisory body to the director of the Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services.

Margo Spence, of Cincinnati, is the executive director of First Step Home, Inc., a residential substance abuse treatment facility for homeless and low-income women and their children. She previously served in several positions for the Talbert House from 1987-2001. Spence received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Cincinnati in 1975 and a master’s degree from Xavier University in 1981.

Carlos Ramos, of Westlake, serves as the executive director of the Hispanic Urban Minority Alcoholism and Drug Addiction Outreach Program (Hispanic UMADAOP, Inc.) a non-profit corporation. A native of Puerto Rico, Ramos earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Puerto Rico in 1984 and his master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Utah in 1989 and 1991, respectively.

Donna Conley, of Westerville, is currently the CEO for Ohio Citizen Advocates for Chemical Dependency Prevention and Treatment, which advocates for improving access to and quality of alcohol and drug addition prevention and treatment services. From 1994-1998, she served as the executive director for the Madison County Prevention Assistance Coalition Team. Conley received a bachelor’s degree from Wayne State University in 1972 and a master’s in business administration from Franklin University in 2001.

The Ohio Commission on Fatherhood is responsible for organizing a state summit on fatherhood every four years and preparing an annual report that identifies resources available to fund fatherhood-related programs and explores the creation of initiatives to build the parenting skills of fathers, provide employment-related services for low-income noncustodial fathers, prevent premature fatherhood, provide services to fathers who are inmates or have just been released from imprisonment, reconcile fathers with their families and increase public awareness of the critical role fathers play.

Diane Karther, of Ashland, is the coordinator for the Family and Children First Council of Ashland County. She has been a faculty member at several universities, including Ashland University and Kent State University, where she taught courses in early childhood education and family development. Karther received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Oklahoma in 1977, a master’s degree from Texas Tech University in 1979 and a doctor of education from West Virginia University in 1995.

Kevin Conwell, of Cleveland, has represented Ward 9 on Cleveland City Council since 2002. Among his work as a councilman, Conwell sponsored legislation to establish the Mayor’s Taskforce on Responsible Fatherhood. Conwell previously served as the operations manager for the Center for Families and Children’s “Fathers and Families Together Program.” He received a bachelor’s degree from Kent State University in 1986.

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

Jason Pappas, of New Albany, has served as a Columbus police officer since 1991. His assignments have included the patrol, SCAT, homicide/assault squad and the fraud unit. He is an active member of the Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio, serving as the trustee for the 11th District, which represents all lodges within Franklin County.

The Children’s Trust Fund Board is responsible for the allocation of its funds and the establishment and maintenance of child abuse and child neglect prevention programs.

Dr. Frank Putnam, Jr., of Wyoming, has served as the director for the Mayerson Center for Safe and Healthy Children at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center since 1999. He was the scientific director for the hospital’s Every Child Succeeds program from 1999-2005. Putnam served in several capacities at the National Institute of Mental Health in Bethesda, Md., from 1979-1999. He received a bachelor’s degree from Wesleyan University in 1969, a master’s degree from Indiana University in 1974, and a medical degree from Indiana University in 1975.

Arlene Jones, of Dayton, is currently pursuing a degree in sociology at Wright State University. Jones serves as the president of the Daybreak Youth Advisory Board and an officer for Overcoming Hurdles in Ohio (O.H.I.O) Youth Advisory Board. She is also a participant in the court appointed special advocate program in Montgomery County.

The Air Quality Development Authority issues air quality revenue bonds, notes and refunding bonds; makes loans and grants to governmental agencies for the acquisition and construction of air quality facilities; makes loans for air quality projects for industry, commerce, distribution or research; acquires, constructs and operates air quality facilities itself; and, engages in research and development with respect to air quality facilities.

Vincent A. Russo, of Cleveland, is currently self-employed. He previously served as the chief assistant to Parma Mayor Dean DePiero in 2004. Russo previously worked for Quality Control Inspection in Bedford from 2001-2003. He received a bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green State University in 2001.

The Unemployment Compensation Advisory Council hears unemployment compensation claims.

Andrew Doehrel, of Galena, has served as the executive vice president for the Ohio Chamber of Commerce since 1991. He previously served as the Chamber’s director of labor relations. Doehrel is a member of the Ohio Bar Association and Columbus Rotary Club. He received a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University in 1974 and a law degree from Capital University in 1977.

Thomas Weeks, of Bexley, has served as executive director for the Ohio State Legal Services Association since 1985. He was previously the director of the civil division for the Cleveland Legal Aid Society. Weeks is a board member for the National Employment Law Project and a member of the Ohio Supreme Court Committee on Dispute Resolution. He received a bachelor’s degree from Oberlin College in 1971 and a law degree from the University of Michigan in 1974.

William Burga, of Westerville, recently retired as the president of the Ohio AFL-CIO, a position he held since 1993. Throughout his career in labor work, Burga also served as the president of the Massillon Trades and Labor Council, AFL-CIO, the president of the Marion County AFL-CIO, and the first vice president of the Greater Canton AFL-CIO executive board.

The Ohio Veterans Home Board of Trustees is charged with governing, conducting, and caring for veterans’ homes, the property of the homes, and the veterans residing in the home.

Raymond Orrand, of Dublin, is a member of the American Legion and life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1967-1970. Since 1995, Orrand has served as the administrator of the health and welfare plan, pension plan and scholarship program for the Ohio Operating Engineers.

The Commission on African American Males works toward the improvement of the quality of life for African American males in Ohio by identifying problems and solutions in the areas of education, health, economics and criminal justice.

Dr. Charles Modlin, of Cleveland, is a staff surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic. In 2003, he founded the Minority Men’s Health Center at the Cleveland Clinic to address the specific healthcare needs of minority men. Modlin was the 2006 recipient of the Ohio Commission of Minority Health Leadership Award. He received his bachelor’s degree in 1983 and his medical degree in 1987 from Northwestern University.

The Public Benefits Advisory Board advises the director of the Department of Development of the universal service fund and the low-income customer assistance programs and advises the director on the director’s recommendation to the commission regarding the appropriate level of the universal service rider.

Jock Pitts, of Oxford, has worked for People Working Cooperatively, Inc., an organization that provides critical home repairs for very low-income homeowners in southwestern Ohio and northern Kentucky, since 1987. After serving as special projects manager, weatherization program director and executive vice president, Pitts became president of the organization in 2002. He received a bachelor’s degree from Miami University in 1978 and a master’s degree from Pennsylvania State University in 1980.

Eric Stachler, of Versailles, is the manager of community development for Sky Financial Group in Bowling Green. Stachler joined Sky in 1991 and has also held management positions in mortgage services, compliance, branch management and collections. He received a bachelor’s degree from the Ohio State University in 1990.

Thomas Froehle, of Columbus, has served as an attorney in the Columbus law firm of McNees Wallace and Nurick, LLC, since 2001. He was previously the managing director of public policy services for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association. Froehle received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio Dominican College in 1989 and a law degree from Capital University in 1993.

The Housing Trust Fund Advisory Committee assists the Ohio Department of Development and the Housing Financing Agency in defining the housing needs and priorities within the state.

Rachel Robinson, of Columbus, is a staff attorney for the Equal Justice Foundation, an organization providing legal representation in civil matters to disadvantaged individuals and groups throughout Ohio. Prior to joining EJF in 2002, Robinson worked for the Ohio State Legal Services Association’s State Support Unit. She is a member of the board of directors for the Coalition on Housing and Homelessness. Robinson received a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University in 1992 and a law degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1996.

The Recycling and Litter Prevention Advisory Council, with the approval of the director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, should establish criteria by which to certify agencies of the state, municipal corporations, counties and townships as eligible to receive grants from the recycling and litter prevention fund.

Theresa Willis, of Columbus, is currently the comptroller and director of community services for the Ohio AFL-CIO. She was previously an executive assistant at the AFL-CIO, and a secretary for the United Steelworkers subdistrict office. Willis is a member of the Ohio United Way board of trustees.