Office of the Governor Press Releases

Columbus, Ohio – Below is the correct appointment listing for Margaret Demko:

The Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council (ODDC) is a planning and advocacy body committed to community inclusion for people with developmental disabilities.

Margaret J. Demko, of Albany, is a private tutor in Athens City and Alexander Local Schools. In addition to tutoring and teaching in the Athens/Alexander area, she has served as state incentive grant coordinator for Health Recovery Services. Demko is an active member of several community boards and councils, including the Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio and Passion Works Advisory Council. She received her bachelor’s degree at Ohio University in 1996.

Columbus, OH – Governor Ted Strickland today announced the appointment of Eddie Harrell, Jr., to the Ohio Civil Rights Commission.

“Eddie’s background in business management and community service will make him a valuable member of the Ohio Civil Rights Commission,” Strickland said. “Eddie’s work on education and economic and workforce development issues will be a tremendous benefit as the commission works to ensure all Ohioans have equal opportunities.”

Harrell, of Columbus, has served as the president and CEO of the Columbus Urban League since 2006. He was previously the executive director of I KNOW I CAN and the former Project GRAD Columbus, programs that worked together to provide Columbus City School District students with a quality public education that prepared them to enter college.

Harrell, 36, currently serves on the Otterbein College Board of Trustees, as well as on the boards of directors for COSI , Columbus City Schools Education Foundation, and KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program). Additionally, he served as the co-chair of the Diversity Focus Area for the City of Columbus 2012 Bicentennial Commission.

“I am excited about this opportunity to serve the people of Ohio as we work to ensure our state is a more tolerant, more just place to live and work,” Harrell said.

Harrell received a bachelor’s degree from Otterbein College and an MBA from Ashland University.

“Eddie Harrell is coming into the Ohio Civil Rights Commission at a critical juncture. I am confident that Mr. Harrell’s strong administrative skills and vision will be put to use to sharpen and reshape the civil rights agenda for the State of Ohio. That is a goal that Gov. Strickland and I share,” Ohio Senate Minority Leader Ray Miller said.

“Eddie Harrell will be a great addition to the Civil Rights Commission. As head of one of the oldest civil rights organizations, the Columbus Urban League, he spends countless hours advocating for equality, security, and hope for children and families,” Ohio House Democratic Leader Joyce Beatty said. “In my experiences with him, I’ve found him to be a great ‘people person’ who is genuine, direct, open and intelligent. He’s a great choice.”

The Ohio Civil Rights Commission enforces state laws against discrimination. OCRC receives and investigates charges of discrimination in employment, public accommodations, housing, credit and higher education on the bases of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, ancestry or familial status.

“The Ohio Civil Rights Commission needs a strong champion and voice on issues affecting minorities, women, and other victims of discrimination. In appointing Eddie Harrell to the commission, I believe Gov. Strickland has given us that strong voice,” Senator Shirley Smith, assistant minority leader and president of the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus, said. “I am looking forward to working with him to strengthen the Ohio Civil Rights Commission, and make it even more effective in the fight for equal justice for all Ohio citizens.”

A photo of Harrell can be found at: http://governor.ohio.gov/Portals/0/Misc/harrell.JPG

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

The Board of Building Appeals provides for the adjudication hearings where any political subdivision issues an order attempting to enforce any provisions of the State Building Code or any rule or regulation.

Leon Humphries, of Columbus, has been the president of HKI Associates, Inc. since 1990. He has also served on the Architect Registration Examination Subcommittee, an international body responsible for writing, editing, and pretesting the multiple-choice items and graphic vignettes used in architect registration examinations. Humphries received a bachelor’s degree in architecture from the Tuskegee Institute and a master’s degree in city and regional planning from the Ohio State University.

The Board of Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators provides for the examination of applicants, issues and revokes licenses and adopts rules to govern the conduct of nursing home administrators.

Anne Howard, of Lebanon, has been a practicing attorney focusing on Social Security disability since 2006. She has previously served as a Continuing Legal Education instructor at the Warren County Bar Association. Howard received a bachelor’s degree from McGill University and a law degree from the University of Cincinnati.

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

Anita Steinbergh, of Westerville, has operated a family practice focusing on pediatrics and women’s health since 1989. Steinbergh has been a member of the State Medical Board of Ohio since 1993, and has been a licensed physician since 1979. She received a bachelor’s degree from the Pennsylvania State University and a doctorate of osteopathic medicine from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.

The Ohio Housing Finance Agency offers affordable housing opportunities for Ohioans from rental assistance to homeownership. OHFA provides access to financial resources for the development and management of affordable, safe and sanitary housing. The agency's programs serve first-time homebuyers, renters, senior citizens and other populations with special needs who otherwise might not be able to afford quality housing.

Henry Warren, Jr., of Garfield Heights, is the owner of A-1 Carpet and Furniture Cleaning and serves as a councilman for Garfield Heights (Ward 1). As a member of the U.S. Military, he completed two tours in Vietnam from 1966-1969. Warren studied business management at Cuyahoga Community College.

The 9-1-1 Council is charged with establishing uniform technical and operational standards by examining industry standards as well as federal law relative to 911 systems. The council conducts research and makes recommendations to the General Assembly regarding wireline and wireless 911 systems and any necessary improvements that must be made, as well as advising on any legislation concerning 911 systems across the state of Ohio.

Lynne C. Feller, of Wooster, is the communications supervisor and 911 coordinator for the Wayne County Justice Center. She is an active member of the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials and serves as the Ohio representative on the APCO International Executive Council. She received her bachelor’s degree from the College of Wooster in 1976.

The Minority Development Financing Advisory Board provides for the recommendations to the director of the Ohio Department of Development as to applications for assistance on minority loans.

Kenneth Lumpkin, of Cleveland, has been a law partner with Lumpkin McCrary LLC since 1995. He has previously served as a councilman and as assistant law director for the City of Cleveland. Lumpkin received his bachelor’s degree from Central State University and his law degree from Howard University.

The Ohio Elections Commission hears, through “probable cause panels,” certain violations of the Elections Law at expedited hearings.

Bryan Felmet, of Steubenville, has been a practicing attorney since 2006. He had previously served as the prosecutor of Jefferson County from 2001-2005 and as a lieutenant colonel in the United States Army from 1977-1998. Felmet received a bachelor’s degree from the Ohio State University in 1973 and his law degree from the Ohio State University in 1976.

The Ohio Development Disabilities Planning Council is charged with, in consultation with the Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, developing, submitting, and administering the State Plan, pursuant to the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act, as amended.

Tina Adams, of Belpre, has been the senior environmental engineer for MPM Silicones, LLC since 2004. She had previously served as the senior project engineer for Triad Engineering and as a senior environmental engineer for the Exxon Company from 1991-1995. Adams received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky in 1989, a master’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Kentucky in 1993, and a master’s degree in environmental engineering from Marshall Graduate College in 2000.

The State Board of Emergency Medical Services is charged with preparing a plan for the statewide regulation of emergency medical services during times of disaster. The board oversees an Emergency Medical Services Grant program to improve quality and accessibility of EMS services within the state.

William Bishilany, of Seven Hills, has been the director of public works for the City of Seven Hills since 2004. Bishilany also serves as the executive vice president for the Greater Cleveland Suburban Council Association. He had previously served as president of council for the City of Seven Hills from 1995-2001. Bishilany received his bachelor’s degree in industrial management from the University of Akron.

Thomas E. Collins, Jr., of Chagrin Falls, is an emergency medicine physician at the MetroHealth Medical Center and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. He is the medical director for the City of Cleveland Department of Public Safety and Cuyahoga Community College, an assistant professor of emergency medicine at Case Western Reserve University, and a flight physician for Metro LifeFlight. Collins received his bachelor’s degree from John Carroll University and a graduate degree from St. Louis University. Additionally, he has completed post-graduate work through Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine.

The Housing Trust Fund Advisory Committee is charged with assisting the Ohio Department of Development and the Housing Finance Agency in identifying the housing needs and priorities of the state. The committee also reports on how programs, such as the Low- and Moderate-Income Housing Trust Fund, can more effectively benefit low- and moderate-income individuals and families. The committee advises the director of the Department of Development as to when and how money within the Housing Trust Fund should be allocated.

Lewis Ellis, of Toledo, has been the executive director for Preferred Properties, Inc. since 1992 and previously served as the director of development and director of operations for Lucas Metropolitan Housing from 1979-1992. Ellis received his bachelor’s degree from North Carolina Central University in 1971 and his master’s degree in urban planning and geography from the University of Toledo in 1973.

Heidi Fought, of Columbus, has been the director of government affairs for the Ohio Township Association since 2000. Previously, Fought served as a legislative aide to State Representative Robert Schuler. She received a bachelor’s degree in political science from Muskingum College in 1998.

Evelyn King, of Cambridge, has been the assistant director for the City of Cambridge since 1993 and has served as the fair housing coordinator for the City of Cambridge and Guernsey County since 1982. She previously served as a program manager with the City of Cambridge from 1985-1993. King attended Muskingum College and studied planning and zoning/public administration at the Ohio State University.

Grady Appleton, of Akron, has served as the executive director of the East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation since 1982 and as the assistant executive director for East Akron Community House. Appleton serves on several boards, including the Ohio Capital Corporation for Housing and the Ohio Equity Fund. He received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Akron and a master’s degree in social administration from Case Western Reserve University.

The Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission provides for the development, performance, and presentation or making available of culture and professional sports and athletics to the public.

Joan Dearth, of Marietta, is a dance instructor, choreographer and a member of the Marietta community theatre. She previously served as the president of the Marietta Area Chamber of Commerce.

Adam Brandt, of Columbus, has been an attorney with the law firm of Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP since 1996. He is a board member of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Central Ohio and has been a member of the COSI Advisory Council since 2005. Brandt received a bachelor’s degree from Williams College and a law degree from the Ohio State University.

The Motor Vehicles Dealers Board implements and enforces rules and regulations necessary to conduct hearings on the issuance, suspension or revocation of motor vehicle dealer licenses. Additionally, the board hears appeals on refusal to issue licenses for dealers and/or salesmen.

Chris Haydocy, of Columbus, is the president of Haydocy Pontiac Buick GMC. Haydocy has long been an advocate for the development of advanced fuels and Haydocy Automotive was Ohio’s first General Motors alternative fuel dealer. He is a member of the Hocking College Energy Board.

Robert Fahey, of Cambridge, has been the owner and operator of Fairdale Auto Sales since 1991. Fahey was elected to the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association in 2005 and currently serves as secretary. He is a graduate of Zanesville High School and continued his studies at Ohio University in Zanesville.

The Environmental Education Council provides leadership and resources for environmental education throughout the state of Ohio.

T. Casey Stephens, of Toledo, has served as commissioner of environmental services for the City of Toledo since 2006. Stephens previously served as a project manager for the City of Toledo from 1998-2005. He is currently a member of the Ohio EPA Director’s Voluntary Action Program Multidisciplinary Board. Stephens received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Toledo in 1980 and a master’s degree in geology from the University of Toledo in 1984.

The Ohio Public Defender Commission appoints the state public defender and establishes rules for the conduct of county public defenders and county appointed counsel systems across the state. In addition, the commission advises the governor, General Assembly and Ohio Supreme Court on the operation of the State Public Defender’s Office and county public defenders and counsel systems.

Jeffrey Liston, of Columbus, has served as a partner at Tyack, Blackmore & Liston Co., LPA since 1993. Liston has over 25 years of experience as a trial lawyer in the areas of juvenile, criminal, domestic, and personal injury law. He received a bachelor’s degree in government from Otterbein College in 1975 and his law degree from Case Western Reserve University in 1978.

The Ohio Fair Plan Underwriting Association Board of Governors provides for economical, fair, and non-discriminatory administration of a program for the equitable appointment of the basic property insurance which may be afforded in urban areas to applicants whose property is insurable in accordance with the underwriting standards but, are unable to obtain insurance through normal channels.

W. Ted Briggs, of Columbus, is currently the CEO of Briggs Insurance Company. Briggs is a board member for Ohio Fair Plan and for Give a Kid a Toy Foundation. He received a bachelor’s degree in business management from Central State University in 1986.

The Ohio Humanities Council is charged with the distribution of grants to non-profit organizations to hold public humanities programs. The Humanities Council receives annual grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Neil Evans, of Cleveland, has been a counsel with the law firm Hahn Loeser and Parks since 1971 and he is a retired partner. He also serves as the president of the Cuyahoga County Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument Commission and the monument support group. In the past, Evans served as the president of the Ohio Historical Society and as a commissioned officer on the U.S.S. Fidelity from 1958-1961. Evans received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester in 1958 and a law degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1964.

The Motor Vehicle Salvage Dealer’s Licensing Board is charged with conducting hearings on the issuance, suspension, or revocation of licenses.

Gary Siciliano, of Sagamore Hills, has been a senior operating and management executive at P & L Responsibility since 2001. He was previously the president of Weinberg Capital Corporation/Alliance Electric from 1984-1989. He studied undergraduate coursework at Lakeland University and Cleveland State University. Siciliano received a master’s degree from Lake Erie Senior College.

The Industrial Commission Nominating Council makes recommendations to the Governor for the appointment of members to the Industrial Commission.

John Mahaney, Jr., of Zanesville, has served the Ohio Council of Retail Merchants since 1958. Mahaney became president of the council in 1971 after serving as executive director the previous two years. He also has experience in journalism, radio broadcasting and advertising. Mahaney received a bachelor’s degree from Niagara University.

The State Board of Cosmetology examines applicants for a license or licensure, strives to ensure the better education of practitioners, and establishes rules regulating the proper conduct and sanitation of cosmetological establishments and schools. The board may employ inspectors to conduct examinations, grant permits and certificates, and enforce rules and regulations adopted by the board.

Kimberly Thomas, of Richmond Heights, currently serves as a director of career development and training for Paul Mitchell Systems. She has also been the owner and operator of Dimensional Hair for 18 years and the editor for City Trend/Ohio Style Magazine.

The Ohio Historical Records Advisory Board advises the Ohio Historical Society on matters relating to Ohio’s significant documentary heritage.

Galen Wilson, of Dayton, has been a senior records analyst with National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) Great Lakes Region since 2001 and previously served as an assistant director with NARA. Wilson was an assistant curator of the special collections department of the Chicago Public Library from 1988-1993. She received her bachelor’s degree from Muskingum College in 1978 and a master’s degree in history and administration of archives from the University of Michigan in 1979.

James Quilter, of Toledo has served as a Lucas County Clerk of Courts since 1999. He previously served two terms on the Oregon City Council and was elected president of the council in 1999. Quilter is a member of the Ohio Clerk of Courts Association. He received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Toledo in 1991.

Janet Carleton, of Athens, has been the digital initiatives coordinator for Ohio University Libraries since 2005. Previously, she served as the digital projects librarian for the Mahn Center for Archives and Special Collections at Ohio University from 2000-2005. Carleton received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University in 1993 and a master’s degree in library and information science from the University of Texas at Austin.

Roger Verny, of Westerville, has been deputy state librarian for planning, evaluation and research for the State Library of Ohio. He was previously a director of education and communications for the University of Cincinnati from 1989 to 1993. Verny received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Toledo in 1970, a master’s degree from the University of Toledo in 1975, and completed the executive program at the University of Cincinnati in 1987.

Jill Tatem, of Cleveland Heights, has been the interim university archivist for Case Western Reserve University since 2006. She previously served as the acting director for Case Western Reserve University Archives from 2003-2006. She received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Dayton in 1973, a master’s degree from the University of Dayton in 1981 and a master of library sciences from Case Western Reserve University in 1983.

Nikki Taylor, of Middletown, has served as an assistant professor of American history at the University of Cincinnati since 2005. She was previously an assistant professor of American History at Vassar College from 2001-2005. Taylor currently serves on the academic advisory council for the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and as a member of the Association of Black Women Historians. She received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1994 and a master’s degree from Duke University in 1996.

Judith Cetina, of Cleveland Heights, has served as an archivist and manager with Cuyahoga County Archives since 1985, and previously served as the curator of manuscripts from 1977-1985. Cetina is a member of the Society of Ohio Archivists and the Academy of Certified Archivists. She received a bachelor’s degree from Case Western Reserve University in 1971, a master’s degree from Case Western Reserve University in 1974 and a doctorate from Case Western Reserve University in 1977.

David Noonan, of Riverlea, has served as an electronic records manager and archivist with the Ohio State University since 2006. He had previously worked as a supervisor for electronic records management for the State of New Jersey from 2001-2006. Noonan has been a certified document imaging architect since 2004. He received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1985 and a master’s degree from Rutgers University-New Brunswick in 2000.

The Environmental Review Appeals Commission serves as an appellate board for the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and sets guidelines for the daily operations of the department.

Lisa Eschleman, of Columbus, has been an associate director for pro bono services for Ohio Legal Assistance Foundation since 2006. She had previously served as a senior attorney and project supervisor for the Capital University Law School Family Advocacy Clinic from 2001-2006. Eschleman received a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University in 1981 and a law degree from Capital University in 1987.

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

Andrew Schneider, of Columbus, is currently an environmental planner and archaeologist for TranSystems Corporation since 2004. Schneider was previously an adjunct instructor in the University of Toledo’s anthropology department. Schneider received a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from the University of Toledo in 1994 and a master’s degree in archaeology from the University of Toledo in 2000.

William Ommert, of Norwalk, has served as the Huron County Emergency Management Agency Director since 1991 and as the Huron County Local Emergency Planning Commission Coordinator since 1991. Ommert received a bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green State University in 1964.

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

Don Shaffer, of Brookville, served as the owner and director of Shaffer Chiropractic Clinic before retiring in 2001. He also served as a reserve deputy with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office from 1991-2001. Shaffer received a bachelor’s degree from Wright State University and a doctorate of chiropractic from the National College of Chiropractic. He also received training to become a Certified Peace Officer from the Ohio Peace Officer’s Training Academy.

The Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board regulates the licensure and certification process of chemical dependency counselors and specialists, approves educational coursework and investigates ethical complaints against licensees. The board also regulates the prices of chemical dependency counseling and alcohol and other drug prevention services.

Judith Smithchild, of Cutler, has been the deputy director for TASC of Southeast Ohio since 2003 and the deputy director of Southern Ohio Solutions since 2004. She was a charter member of the Washington County Community Crisis Response Team, which was created in 1997. Smithchild received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University in 1987 and her master’s degree from Ohio University in 1989.

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

David Reiser, of Athens, has been an architect in a private practice since 1973. He also has experience teaching at the School of Architecture at the Ohio State University. Reiser currently is the chair of the Dairy Barn Arts Center and of the Friends of Stroups Run State Park. Reiser received a bachelor’s degree from Princeton University in 1967 and a master’s degree from Harvard University in 1970.

The State Racing Commission oversees the regulation and licensing of horse racing and racing meetings in the state of Ohio. The commission also oversees wagering on horses as well as collection of racing duties and taxes.

William Koester, of Cincinnati, has been appointed as chair of the Racing Commission. He has been the business manager with Plumbers, Pipefitters and Mechanical Equipment Service Local #392 since 1995, and previously served as vice president for Local #392 from 1986-1992. Koester brings 25 years of knowledge of breeding, foaling, training, racing and retiring thoroughbreds and has been granted a racing license in the State of New York.

The Unemployment Compensation Review Board hears unemployment compensation claims.

Pamela Morris, of Dayton, is president and CEO of CareSource Management Group. Her community involvement has included board assignments with the United Way of Greater Dayton, Hospice of Dayton, and the Dayton Business Committee. She is also an active delegate for the Ohio Association of Health Plans and has served on several governor-appointed task forces. Morris received her degree in public administration and political science from West Virginia University.

The Ohio Credit Union Council advises the Superintendent of Financial Institutions or the Deputy Superintendent of Credit Unions on issues relating to Credit Unions and to hear appeals from final decisions of the superintendent or deputy superintendent regarding fields of membership. The council is also required to advise and make recommendations to the Superintendent or Deputy Superintendent concerning the development and proposal of rules affecting credit unions.

Gary Soukenik, of Warren, is president and CEO of Seven Seventeen Credit Union and Director of the Ohio Credit Union League. He also serves as vice chair and trustee of the Ohio Credit Union Legislative Action Committee, vice chair of the Ohio Credit Union League Political Action Committee, chairman of the CEO Compensation Committee, and a member of the governmental affairs committee.

The Ohio Parks and Recreation Council advises the chief of the Division of Parks and Recreation on park development, formulation and implementation of park policy, planning, park acquisitions, programming, and finance.

Neil J. Andrew, Ph. D., of Lancaster, is a professor for the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences for the Ohio State University. He has made hundreds of presentations on topics concerning land use, tourism system development and public land management. He also served for three years as program supervisor in all aspects of outdoor recreation for the Province of Alberta, Canada. Andrew received graduate degrees from Utah State University and Michigan State University.

Marc McQuaid, of Dublin, is the executive director of the Ohio Travel Association in Columbus. He previously served as executive vice president of the Connecticut Pharmacists Association and as the director of government affairs for the Ohio Pharmacists Association. He graduated from the Ohio State University in 1991 with a bachelor’s degree in political science.

Margaret J. Demko, of Albany, is a private tutor in Athens City and Alexander Local Schools. In addition to tutoring and teaching in the Athens/Alexander area, she has served as state incentive grant coordinator for Health Recovery Services. Demko is an active member of several community boards and councils, including the Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio and Passion Works Advisory Council. She received her bachelor’s degree at Ohio University in 1996.

Molly McClure, of Cincinnati, has served as an independent contractor with the Ohio Park and Recreation Association since 2007. She had previously served as executive director for Anderson Park District from 1986-2007. McClure has been certified as an Ohio Peace Officer and Conservation Officer since 1979. She received a bachelor’s degree from the Ohio State University in 1978.

James Doss, of Gallipolis, is the president of the Ohio Bass Association and a former statewide conservation director. Doss has been a member of the Gallia County Conservation Club since 1997.

The State Fire Commission is charged with recommending courses of action to be taken by the Fire Marshall in carrying out his duties.

Tamira A. Bridgeman, of Cuyahoga Falls, is a sales executive for Britton-Gallagher & Associates Inc. in Cleveland. She has also served as the Commercial Account Manager for Republic Hogg Robinson in Cleveland and as a Commercial Service Representative for Ostrov Corporation in Akron. She is an active member of the American Pyrotechnics Association.

Scott Williams, of Powell, has served as the director of governmental affairs for the Ohio Association of Realtors since 2005. He had previously served as director of state legislative affairs for the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation from 1999-2003 and as a legislative aide to Senator Doug White from 1996-1998. Williams received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University in 1992 and a master’s degree from Ohio University in 1995.

The Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission advises the Attorney General on the standards and the curriculum of police schools for all level of government.

Jeffrey Patzer, of Dayton, is an associate professor in the Criminal Justice Program at Sinclair Community College. He has previously served as administrative specialist for the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, adult education teacher at the Southern Ohio Correctional Facility, and patrolman for the Detroit and University of Dayton Police Departments. Patzer received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan in 1971 and a law degree from the University of Dayton School of Law in 1978.

Robert Fiatal, of Sagamore Hills, is superintendent of the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation. He has previously served as a supervisor to the Cleveland field office of the Federal Air Marshal Service and the Akron resident agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Additionally, he was a captain in the United States Army from 1977 to 1980. Fiatal received his bachelor’s degree from Kent State in 1973 and his law degree from the University of Akron in 1976.

The Clean Ohio Council is charged with reviewing and approving applications and entering into an agreement with the applicant to award a grant or make a loan for the applicant’s brownfield cleanup project.

Lavea Brachman, of Columbus, is a co-director and a director of policy and research with Greater Ohio. She was previously an associate director at Delta Institute from 1998 to 2005 and a director of the Ohio office from 2002 to 2005. Brachman has been a member of the National Vacant Properties Campaign since 2003. Brachman received a bachelor’s degree from Harvard College in 1984, a law degree from the University of Chicago in 1988 and a master’s degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1993.

William DeMora, of Columbus, is the former executive director of the Ohio League of Conservation Voters and Ohio LCV Education Fund. He previously served as executive director of the Ohio Democratic Party. DeMora is an active member of the Ohio State Alumni Club and is president of the Columbus Italian Club. He received a bachelor’s degree from the Ohio State University in 1989.

The Commission on Hispanic/Latino Affairs is charged with gathering and disseminating information and conducting hearings, conferences, investigations, and special studies on problems and programs concerning Spanish-speaking people. It also secures appropriate recognition of the accomplishments and contributions of Spanish-speaking people to the state.

Lupe Williams, of Wooster, currently serves as a lecturer for the Ohio State University on the subject of Spanish language and sociology in the workplace. Williams has assisted in creating the Northeast Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and was the co-founder of the Home for the Elderly in Brazil. She is a member of the Ohio Latino Arts Association and of the Latino/Hispanic Caucus of Ohio.

The Ohio Board of Dietetics is charged with adopting, amending or rescinding rules governing selection and approval of a dietitian licensure examination.

Mary Astrom, of Athens, has served as a nutrition counselor for WellWorks and HeartWorks at Ohio University since 1997. She had served as an instructor for the School of Human and Consumer Sciences at Ohio University from 1997-2007 and as a perinatal nutrition specialist for Rockford Memorial Hospital from 1985-1996. She received a bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University in 1971 and a master’s degree from Northern Illinois University in 1979.

The State Auctioneers Commission serves in an advisory capacity to the Department of Agriculture on the area of auctioneer licensure. This includes the qualifications and examination for licensure, and the issuance and revocation of licenses.

James Milleson, of Tippecanoe, has been a real estate salesperson since 2004. He has also been the owner and operator of JRM Consulting since 1999. Milleson received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University in 1985.

The Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors administers examinations for embalmer’s and funeral director’s licenses, governs such apprenticeships and may issue and revoke such licenses.

Ty Marsh, of Columbus, currently serves as president and CEO of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. He had previously served as chief of staff to Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman. Marsh has experience working for a family-owned funeral service company. He received a dual bachelor’s degree from Ohio Wesleyan University.

The Banking Commission reports to the Superintendent of Banks its proposals on the issuance of certificates to form new banks and on the examinations of banks. The Banking Commission also conducts hearings for the removal of bank directors or officers when the occasion demands and establishes limits and regulations regarding banking procedures that affect other banks.

Albert Donahey, of Canal Winchester, has served as regional band investment officer for Key Investment Services since 2006. He previously served as a registered representative for Principal Financial Group. Donahey is a member of the CW Tax Incentive Review Council. He received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tampa and has done post-graduate coursework at the Ohio State University.

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.

Lin Laing, of Cincinnati, has served as executive director for the Center for Independent Living Options since 1996 and served previously as the chief financial officer from 1992-1996. Laing has served on the Community Shares Board of Directors since 2001. Laing attended the State University of New York at Buffalo and received a bachelor 's degree from the University of Maryland in 1972.

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Judicial Appointments Recommendation Panel is currently accepting applications to fill a vacant seat on the Highland County Court of Common Pleas, General Division.

Applicants for the Court of Common Pleas position must be a resident and registered elector of Highland County and not yet 70 years old on the day they begin their duties, as dictated by Ohio law. In addition, they must be admitted to practice law in Ohio and have maintained their legal license for six years prior to assuming the judicial post or served as a judge of a court of record in any jurisdiction in the United States.

To continue service in the position, the appointee must run in the November 2008 judicial election.

In the case of all judicial vacancies, applicants must follow the guidelines set forth by the Ohio Judicial Appointments Recommendation Panel to ensure their eligibility for appointment.

Applications must be submitted directly to the judicial panel and will then be distributed to the at-large and regional panel members. Details and the full text of the application procedure are available on the judicial panel’s section of the governor’s Web site, http://www.governor.ohio.gov/.

Requirements for all applicants include submitting a letter of interest, resume, panel questionnaire at http://governor.ohio.gov/Portals/0/OJARP/OJARP%20QUESTIONNAIRE.pdf, and no more than six letters of recommendation.

Additional details about OJARP and the application process can be found at http://ojarp.org/.

All materials submitted by applicants for a judicial vacancy will be considered public record under Ohio law. Applicant communication with panel members must be directed to the entire panel; all attempts to contact or influence a panel member are prohibited. Applicant questions and concerns should be addressed to Kent Markus or Jeff Ruppert in the Governor’s Office at (614) 466-3555.

Applications for the Highland County appointment must be received by 5 p.m. on July 31.

Candidates must be available to interview in person on August 28 in Columbus. Individual candidate times and interview locations will be determined at a later date.

Governor Strickland has selected the following individuals to serve on the regional
panel for the current Highland County vacancy:

Nicholas Thompson, police chief, City of Hillsboro
David Pence, attorney
James Phillips, retired member of the Communications Workers of America (CWA)
Robert Hottle, business owner, Blossom ’N Buds Florists
Robert Captain, retired from the Ohio Department of Transportation
J.D. Wagoner, attorney and president of the Highland County Bar Association.

At-large panel members:

James Ray (panel chair), retired judge, Lucas County Court of Common Pleas, Juvenile Division
Janica Pierce, attorney, Chester Willcox and Saxbe, LLP
John Kulewicz, attorney, Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease, LLP
Betty Davis, president, Community Concepts, Inc.
Isabel Framer, court certified Spanish/English interpreter; chair of the Board of Directors of the National Association of Judicial Interpreters and Translators

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Judicial Appointments Recommendation Panel is currently accepting applications to fill a vacant seat on the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas, General Division, due to the retirement of Judge Lillian J. Greene, effective June 25, 2008.

Applicants for the Court of Common Pleas position must be a resident and registered elector of Cuyahoga County and not yet 70 years old on the day they begin their duties, as dictated by Ohio law. In addition, they must be admitted to practice law in Ohio and have maintained their legal license for six years prior to assuming the judicial post or served as a judge of a court of record in any jurisdiction in the United States.

To continue service in the position, the appointee must run in the November 2008 judicial election.

In the case of all judicial vacancies, applicants must follow the guidelines set forth by the Ohio Judicial Appointments Recommendation Panel to ensure their eligibility for appointment.

Applications must be submitted directly to the judicial panel and will then be distributed to the at-large and regional panel members. Details and the full text of the application procedure are available on the judicial panel’s section of the governor’s Web site, http://www.governor.ohio.gov/.

Requirements for all applicants include submitting a letter of interest, resume, panel questionnaire at http://governor.ohio.gov/Portals/0/OJARP/OJARP%20QUESTIONNAIRE.pdf, and no more than six letters of recommendation.

Additional details about OJARP and the application process can be found at http://ojarp.org/.

All materials submitted by applicants for a judicial vacancy will be considered public record under Ohio law. Applicant communication with panel members must be directed to the entire panel; all attempts to contact or influence a panel member are prohibited. Applicant questions and concerns should be addressed to Kent Markus or Jeff Ruppert in the Governor’s Office at (614) 466-3555.

Applications for the Cuyahoga County appointment must be received by 5 p.m. July 24.

Candidates must be available to interview in person on August 5 in Columbus. Individual candidate times and interview locations will be determined at a later date.

Governor Strickland has selected the following individuals to serve on the regional
panel for the current Cuyahoga County vacancy:

Bill Mason, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor
Kenneth Fisher, attorney, Kenneth J. Fisher Co., LPA
Darlene Evans McCoy, attorney, Calfee Halter and Griswold LLP
Terence Joyce, secretary-treasurer, Laborer’s Local #310
Peter Lawson Jones, attorney and Cuyahoga County Commissioner
Marsha Fudge, attorney and mayor of Warrensville Heights

At-large panel members:

Janet E. Jackson (chair), president and CEO of United Way of Central Ohio
Meg Flack, board member of the Ohio League of Women Voters
Doloris Learmonth, managing partner at Peck, Shaffer and Williams LLP in Cincinnati
Joy Malek Oldfield, partner at Hill Hardman Oldfield, LLC, in Akron
Charles “Rocky” Saxbe, former state representative, currently senior partner in the Columbus law firm of Chester, Wilcox and Saxbe, LLP

Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today delivered the following address at the City Club of Cleveland Forum.

Below is the full text of the governor’s address:

City Club of Cleveland
July 11, 2008

Sometimes people ask me what I like to do in my spare time. And I’ll tell you, one of the things I like to do is read newspapers. Lately I’ve been seeing some interesting descriptions of Ohio’s economy.

A Philadelphia Inquirer reporter thinks we’re “battered and depressed” with a “deepening sense of despair.”

The Wall Street Journal has already printed Ohio’s obituary. Two weeks ago they ran a column with the headline: “The Self-Inflicted Economic Death of Ohio.”

A newspaper in England, The Observer, sent a writer here all the way from London. Listen to what he came up with when he wrote about northern Ohio:

“Fierce Arctic winds blow across the great lakes from Canada and make for hard living most of the year. Only the prospect of full employment, a home, good schools and everything else the American dream promises made life tolerable in this harsh country. But now the fires of industry are cold and this vast region of the Midwest faces a long and bleak economic winter.”

Now, before I pass out some tissues so that we can all have a good cry, let me say something to those who have a distorted view of the great state of Ohio and the great city of Cleveland: You’re wrong.

Ohio has too many strengths, too many successes, too much talent, too noble a history to reach such erroneous conclusions based on superficial observations.

And I’ll tell you, we’re building on our strengths. Brick by brick, we’re bolstering our infrastructure and supporting development in our local communities. Student by student, we’re assembling a skilled workforce with limitless potential. Company by company, we’re building on a foundation of traditional industries and emerging cutting-edge technologies. Through targeted investments, we’re renewing and advancing Ohio.

Look, I’m not saying we don’t have real challenges. There’s no question we face serious, structural economic challenges in Ohio today. And frankly, everything we’re trying to accomplish must be done in the midst of a national economy that has hit Ohioans squarely in the pocketbook.

Last year the nation endured the sharpest rise in inflation in 17 years.

Across the country, foreclosures were up 75 percent in 2007 above the already high levels of the year before. Take a walk down the average street, anywhere in America today – by the time you’ve gone halfway down the block, odds are you’ve passed multiple houses with past-due mortgages.

When 2007 began, a barrel of oil was 50 dollars. Before the year was out, it was 100. And now it’s 140.

The struggle to make ends meet intensifies for every one of us. Wages are losing the race against inflation – with “real” wages having declined for American workers every month since October.

Of course the burden falls hardest on those who have lost jobs – and this national economic downturn has spared few families.

This isn’t just a state problem or a regional problem. The nation as whole actually lost jobs in January. Then lost more jobs in February, and in March, and in April, and in May, and in June.

May’s jump in unemployment was the largest in 22 years.

I’ve often said that if you want to understand this country just come to Ohio. The people, the places, the life of Ohio offer a bit of almost everything you’ll find in America. And I think that’s one of the greatest things about living here.

But a big, diverse American state like Ohio must face the challenges of the American economy.

In a time of shifting consumer demand, we’ve seen the doors shuttered on Ohio plants that for generations built products of the highest quality. In a time of corporate consolidations, we’ve seen Ohio jobs shipped away and chipped away.

It’s tempting to look for a quick fix to help the Ohio economy out of this national slump. But this isn’t the time to stick some chewing gum in the crack and hope it holds.

We have an opportunity here to make a long term commitment, a commitment to strengthening Ohio and reclaiming the Ohio prosperity that has defined this state since its earliest days.

That’s why we passed a jobs stimulus package that will dedicate $1.57 billion dollars to creating jobs and laying the foundation for future economic growth.

That’s why we’ve made a historic commitment to education – from pre-schools to graduate schools to workforce training, we’ve increased funding and access and made it easier for Ohioans to gain skills to fill positions in high demand career fields.

That’s why we passed an energy bill that will protect jobs by ensuring the availability of reliable electric service while preventing the kind of devastating overnight increases in electricity prices – increases of more than 70 percent – that some states have endured.

And the new law requires expanded use of advanced energy technology – giving us a greener source of power and the potential to see dramatic job gains making the tools necessary to harvest the next generation of energy. What’s more, we’ll create a major new market for Ohio agricultural products – a source of economic vitality for Ohio for two centuries now.

But as we take action, we must also answer this charge against us. This charge that we’re battered, depressed, and in decline. Have we really fallen so far behind that we can never catch-up?

Now there are a lot of folks who love to talk up the fast growing South. They’re the Sun Belt, where everything is new, warm and vibrant. We’re cast as the Rust Belt, old, cold, corroded, and headed for the scrap pile.

It’s interesting to see what the experts have to say.

The Federal Reserve Bank here in Cleveland has put out a number of reports in the last few years with heady titles like “The Long-Run Determinants of State Income Growth.”

Their economists found that the South has outpaced the rate of growth in the rest of the country, and they wondered how the rest of the country could produce similar results.

But here’s something in their research that I found really interesting. If you look back over the last 70 years, you’ll see that Mississippi has grown at an amazingly fast rate. Using constant dollars, their per capita income actually grew more than 1100 percent over 70 years.

By any measure, that is an impressive rate of growth. For comparison, over the same period Midwest states like Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois saw their per capita income rise by about 500 percent.

But here’s something that kind of gets overlooked in the celebration of the Sunbelt’s growth.

When you look at where Mississippi started, before all that income growth, you see that their per capita income was dead last among the states during the 1930s.

And today, after more than 1100 percent growth, Mississippi’s per capita income ranks…dead last.

So even as Federal Reserve research celebrates growth in the South, the bottom line is that those states grew the fastest because they were the farthest behind to begin with.

We’re not going to match the growth rate of states that have far fewer assets. That’s a fact. But we can be – and we are – bigger and stronger and more prosperous.

You know, foxtail weeds grow pretty fast. Those weeds can double in size in just a few days. A mighty oak tree can’t match that. But which would you rather be?

The power of perception is at work here. If self pity did any good, I would be all for it. But a negative self image undercuts a community’s morale, and it undercuts a community’s prospects. It’s a self fulfilling prophesy – why should investors go where people have given up on themselves?

You know the old line, “A lie will go round the world while the truth is pulling on its boots.” Well it seems to me just about every bad thing folks feel about Ohio gets shouted through a bullhorn while every good thing is whispered. And this matters in everything we do.

So let’s take a lesson from a model city, a model metropolitan area. A place we should emulate and aspire to replicate.

This is a place with a lower cost of living than cities like Phoenix or Orlando or Seattle or even Mexico City, it’s cost of living is even lower than towns like Danville, Virginia.

It a place with a higher household income than Tampa or Albuquerque or Pittsburgh.

It has a higher percentage of people in the “creative class” than Portland or Indianapolis or Honolulu, and more people employed in the arts than Houston or Milwaukee or Miami.

It’s rated a more sustainable city than Atlanta or Charlotte or Jacksonville.

It’s rated more literate than – get this – New York City, Philadelphia, Chicago, or Los Angeles.

The quality of life is rated higher than Minneapolis or St. Louis or Rome or Hong Kong or Rio de Janeiro.

The place I just described…is Cleveland, Ohio.

Cleveland is an incredible place to live. How lucky you all are to be from Cleveland. I know you don’t hear that everyday, but you should.

Some of you may have heard of the chef Anthony Bourdain. Bourdain has written best-selling cookbooks and hosts a television show. In each episode he travels to a new city to profile the place and its food.

A friend suggested he bring his show to Cleveland. Bourdain was reluctant because he didn’t think Cleveland was interesting enough for him.

And then he came here.

These are the words Bourdain now uses to describe Cleveland: “Incredibly beautiful,” “gorgeous,” “very, very exciting.” This is a person who has traveled all across the country and all across the world. In Cleveland he found an “exhilarating” city – and the restaurants are good too.

Still, Bourdain was a little thrown by what he heard about Cleveland while he was here.

He said, “In the first ten minutes people tend to tell you everything they don’t like about the city, but then they tell you how much they love it.”

The writer and Cleveland native Charles Michener has made a very similar observation. There was an interesting story in The Plain Dealer last weekend on Michener and the book he’s writing about Cleveland called The Hidden City.

Michener has worked as an editor at Newsweek and The New Yorker, he’s lived in New York, Japan, Germany, and England, and yet he marvels at Cleveland – at the Cleveland Orchestra that ranks among the world’s finest, at the Cleveland Museum of Art, at the new life springing up in the Euclid Corridor.

For all its wonders though, Michener says people here have an “ingrained modesty” about Cleveland “that can easily trip into self-denigration.”

I think we’re all justified in spreading the good word about Cleveland – and doing that without 10 minutes of qualifiers or an abundance of modesty.

And the same is true when we talk about Ohio.

Because we need to remember that the words we’ve been called – battered and bleak, depressed and despairing – those are powerful words, but they’re not true.

Let me tell you some things that are true.

If your products are sought-after across the world, then you will thrive in the long run.

Now there is one state – only one state – in the country whose exports have grown every year for the last 10 years. That’s Ohio.

A low cost of living means a more economically sustainable life for people. It means being able to provide for yourself and your family. It means lower costs for businesses trying to attract a talented workforce.

The cost of living in our state is the second lowest in the Midwest, and the second lowest among large states. That’s Ohio.

If there’s anything the modern economy has shown us, it’s that everyday it gets easier and easier for any company to locate anywhere. We are in competition with states and nations for almost all new development we are seeking.

So, we have to make Ohio attractive to businesses. And when the tax reforms in place now are fully implemented, Ohio will be one of only two states in the nation without a general tax on corporate profits and without a general tax on tangible personal property. That’s Ohio.

Site Selection magazine looks at business expansion and relocation plans across the country. They count every single major investment in new facilities in every state, and when they do that they award their “Governor’s Cup” to the state that has attracted the most. For the last two years, the same state has won the award. That’s Ohio.

We have a wonderful opportunity now in Ohio to build from these strengths, and we will. Let me say just a few words about four sectors of the economy that really illustrate Ohio’s incredible potential.

These are the four sectors we’ve targeted for a state investment in our jobs stimulus plan because these are all areas in which Ohio is a national leader, and where there is a window of opportunity for us to advance development and lay claim to being an international leader.

With our incomparable universities, hospitals, and health science companies, Ohioans have developed the Kidney dialysis machine, the MRI, the first antihistamine and countless other great medical advances. Ohio leads the nation in the growth of venture capital investments in the biosciences and is host to one in every five clinical trials in the U.S.

You’ve all seen firsthand the impact of Rainbow Children’s Hospital and The Cleveland Clinic, both ranked among the nation’s finest.

The quality of our medical facilities in Cleveland and in Ohio is simply incomparable.

In the U.S. News and World Report rankings, Ohio leads the nation with four of the country’s top 15 children’s hospitals. Rainbow’s Neo-Natal Care unit is the second ranked facility of its kind in the U.S.

The Cleveland Clinic meanwhile has spun off two dozen startup companies in the last decade and averages 200 inventions each year.

Last year we made the largest grant in the history of Ohio’s Third Frontier program to assist the Cleveland Clinic in launching the Global Cardiovascular Innovation Center. The center is a research incubator that will create hundreds of jobs as it conducts life-saving research.

Experts have concluded that with our manufacturing base, our location, and our university research teams, Ohio is among the top two states for potential new jobs in renewable energy.

Demand for advanced energy worldwide is soaring. Wind turbine installations have doubled in the last three years and solar installations were up 62 percent last year.

One study has estimated that more than 2,000 Ohio companies make component parts that could be utilized in advanced energy.

And, we’re already seeing new energy companies come to Ohio.

IBC Solar, one of the leading solar manufacturers in Germany, has committed to establishing its U.S. headquarters here in Cleveland.

In logistics, the Ohio advantage is enormous. Within 600 miles of Ohio is the majority of the U.S. population, the majority of U.S. manufacturing facilities, and the vast majority of U.S. corporate headquarters. Because of our central location, there is no state better suited than Ohio for logistics and distribution centers and the jobs they bring.

And the fourth area we’re investing in is bio-based products. Ohio is first in the country in the advanced polymer industry. By accelerating the shift from petroleum-based plastic to corn and other bio-based plastics, we will create jobs and strengthen the market for Ohio’s agricultural products.

I think Ohio is ‘the state of perfect balance,’ and I see that everyday as I travel across our great state. There is a quality of life here that cannot be matched, there is opportunity here to pursue your dreams.

Let’s not shy away from making that known. In fact, today I’m calling upon you to lift us up – tell the world what Cleveland has to offer, tell the world what Ohio has to offer. It’s time to celebrate our strengths and tell our story.

There’s an old movie some of you may remember called “The Misfits,” starring Clark Gable – a native of Harrison County, by the way.

In the final scene, the characters played by Marilyn Monroe and Gable are in despair, not sure what will come next for them.

Monroe turns to Gable and asks: “How do you find your way back home?”

And he responds: “Just head for that big star, straight on…It’ll take us right home.”

These four industries – biomedicine, advanced energy, logistics, and bio-based products – are all stars in our sky, and they will take us to a more prosperous home.

In fact, Ohio’s constellation is far, far larger than that – but we have to look up to see it.

We have an economy the size of a major country’s – an economy that has always provided for its people.

But we can give our economy a boost by recognizing more than our difficulties; we can give our economy a boost by seeing what we have and remembering what we’re capable of.

Because it’s time to look up again.

Wright-Patterson makes ideal location for new command headquarters

Columbus, Ohio — Governor Ted Strickland today announced that the State of Ohio proposed Wright-Patterson Air Force Base to the U.S. Air Force as “an ideal host location” for Cyber Command headquarters, the Air Force’s newest major command unit. This new Cyber Command headquarters could bring as many as 450 jobs, and additional contractor jobs are expected to follow the headquarters selection, according to the Air Force.

“No state is better prepared than Ohio to host the activities of Air Force Cyber Command and no Air Force base provides more synergistic benefits than Wright-Patterson,” Strickland said. “I am very proud of our state’s rich history in aerospace and am confident that Ohio makes the perfect home for the Air Force Cyber Command.”

Strickland is one of 18 governors invited to make a case for the new headquarters location. The Air Force asked each governor to make a pitch based on operational synergies with other cyber-related activities, proximity to technology corridors, power supply, security, high-speed bandwidth capability and other factors.

Strickland’s proposal to the Air Force included a letter supporting Wright-Patterson and signed by both of Ohio’s U.S. Senators and all 18 members of Ohio’s Congressional delegation. The governor’s proposal, which was hand-delivered to the Pentagon, emphasized Ohio’s strong and skilled workforce, unparalleled leadership in aerospace technology, and the world-class infrastructure at Wright-Patterson and the surrounding community.

With 25,000 workers, Wright-Patterson is Ohio’s largest employer at a single site, and is scheduled to receive additional jobs as a result of the 2005 defense base closure process. The base already is home to organizations that handle cyber-related activities, including the Air Force Research Laboratory headquarters, the Air Force Institute of Technology, and headquarters of the Air Force Materiel Command.

This summer the Air Force plans to visit each potential Cyber Command headquarters location and make a preliminary decision by November 2008. In addition to the new headquarters jobs, the Air Force is expected to fill numerous other Cyber Command positions. Ohio could compete for those jobs as well.

Strickland thanked the Dayton Development Coalition for helping research Ohio’s bid and Congressman Mike Turner for leading the Congressional effort to support the proposal.

Columbus, Ohio – Governor Ted Strickland today announced the members of the Ohio Anti-Poverty Task Force, which was established through an executive order on May 28 to develop recommendations aimed at reducing the 3.4 million Ohioans living at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level.

The 30 members of the Ohio Anti-Poverty Task Force represent state agencies, faith-based and non-profit organizations, Ohioans living at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level, business and labor leaders, and anti-poverty stakeholders from across the state. The members are listed below.

An additional nearly 250 individuals from 40 towns and cities across the state will participate in five work groups – interagency coordination, benchmarks and measures, self-sufficiency pathways, public-private collaboration, and community engagement – which will meet for the first time in July. The task force will review and approve the work groups’ recommendations before submitting to the Governor.

“The members of the task force and work groups are uniquely qualified to find the kind of common-sense solutions we need to address poverty in Ohio,” Strickland said. “Not only will their recommendations help us find ways to reduce the number of Ohioans in poverty, but they will help these Ohioans lead lives of self-sufficiency and individual prosperity. And Ohio can only get stronger as a result. ”

The initial meeting of the task force will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 9, in the Lazarus Building, Room 621 (A and B), 141 S. High Street, in Columbus.

The Ohio Anti-Poverty Task Force will focus on providing practical and pragmatic short- and long-term strategic recommendations on reducing poverty in Ohio. On September 10, 2008, the task force will deliver its short-term recommendations, which will include a list of immediate policy changes or strategic adjustments in spending for the administration to explore.

The long-term recommendations will be delivered to the Governor on or before April 30, 2009, and include a list of suggested strategies for the state as it develops multi-year initiatives on reducing poverty.

The task force members and the organizations they represent are as follows:

Governor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives
Director Greg Landsman (task force chair)

The Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks
Matt Habash, executive director of the Mid-Ohio Foodbank

Ohio Family and Children First
Allison DeHart, executive director of Partners in Hope

Job and Family Services Directors’ Association
Joe Gauntner, the director of Department of Employment and Family Services in Cuyahoga County

Ohio Urban Resources System
Rodney Reasonover, president of the Ohio Urban Resources System

Coalition on Housing and Homelessness in Ohio
Joyce MacAlpine, manager of housing and homelessness solutions at the Montgomery County office of Family and Children First

Corporation for Ohio Appalachian Development
Roger McCauley, executive director

Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies
Phil Cole, executive director

Ohio United Way
Bill Kitson, president and CEO of the United Way of Greater Toledo

Individuals living at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level
Pauline Edwards
Cassandra Lovejoy

Faith and community non-profit leaders
Pastor Gregory Chandler, president and CEO of Whole Again International
Pastor Michael Reeves, pastor at Corinthian Missionary Baptist Church

Business community representatives
Linda Martens, government relations and public affairs at Pfizer, Inc, in Ohio
Margot J. Copeland, executive vice president and director of corporate diversity and philanthropy at KeyBank

Labor representatives
Betty Simmons Talley, executive board member for OAPSE/AFSCME Local 4
Jennifer Farmer, communications director for the Ohio Service Employees International Union

Ohio Department of Development
Mark Barbash, chief economic development officer

Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services
Jewel Neely, deputy director for program services

Ohio Department of Education
Louis Staffilino, associate superintendent

Ohio Department of Health
Director Alvin Jackson

Ohio Department of Mental Health
Director Sandy Stephenson

Ohio Department of Job and Family Services
Director Helen Jones-Kelly

Ohio Department of Aging
Marc Molea, chief of the Older Americans Act Program Division

Ohio Office of Budget and Management
David Ellis, assistant director

Ohio Department of Taxation
Commissioner Richard Levin

Ohio Board of Regents
Chancellor Eric Fingerhut

Ohio Office of the Treasurer
Treasurer Richard Cordray

Ohio Secretary of State’s Office
Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner

Ohio Benefit Bank
Ralph Gildehaus, director of the Ohio Benefit Bank

Columbus, OH - Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today signed an executive order establishing The Ohio GI Promise, which changes Ohio’s residence requirements to allow all veterans of the U.S. Armed Services, their spouses, and dependents who choose to attend Ohio colleges and universities to do so at in-state tuition rates.

“This is a great benefit for veterans, as well as for Ohio,” Strickland said. “It delivers real support to veterans while helping strengthen Ohio’s strategic plan for higher education, which calls for attracting and keeping talent in the state. Who better to have as part of Ohio’s colleges and universities, workforce and communities than the veterans who have served, led, and protected our country?”

The new program comes on the heels of the new GI Bill passed by Congress and signed into law by President George W. Bush on June 30, which doubles college benefits for eligible troops and veterans, essentially guaranteeing full scholarships at any in-state public college or university, as well as providing monthly housing stipends.

“Ohio is opening its arms to members of the military and their families at a time when the state has made historic investments in its higher education system to spur economic growth,” said Ohio Board of Regents Chancellor Eric D. Fingerhut. “Veteran students bring maturity, motivation and leadership with them. They are precisely the kind of students Ohio needs in its colleges and universities.”

In addition to modifying residency requirements for veterans and their families, the executive order will also:

- Establish The Ohio GI Promise Council. The Ohio GI Promise Council will be charged with marketing educational opportunities in Ohio for veterans nationwide and ensuring that Ohio’s colleges and universities have the best programs and support services available for veterans.

- Launch The Ohio GI Promise Hotline and Web site. A 1-877- VETS-OH-1 hotline and Web site at http://universitysystem.ohio.gov/veterans will serve as gateways to educational opportunities for veterans and will help interested veterans connect with specific colleges and programs.

- Schedule a University System of Ohio system-wide conference on veterans services. A fall 2008 conference sponsored by the Ohio Department of Veterans Services and the Ohio Board of Regents will bring together every Ohio higher education institution’s office of veterans services to examine best practices and what should be implemented at every institution. There will be representatives at this conference from the U.S. Military, the National Guard, the American Council on Education, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and other local and regional veterans services organizations. Working with the Ohio GI Promise Council, the goal of the conference will be to prepare and coordinate campus services.

- Expand the use of Ohio National Guard Scholarships. The Ohio Board of Regents will propose and support legislation to allow Ohio National Guard Scholarships to be used for graduate study, housing, books and supplies and transportation. Currently, the scholarships may only be used for tuition and fees.

- Designate Ohio colleges and universities “Servicemember Opportunity Colleges.” The Ohio Board of Regents will work with the American Council on Education (ACE) to certify all Ohio colleges and universities as “Servicemember Opportunity Colleges.” This will allow all college credit received during military service approved by ACE to transfer to every University System of Ohio institution.

The full executive order is below:

Executive Order 2008 – 17S

Immediate Adoption of Rule to Honor Veterans’ Service and Attract Them to Ohio’s Workforce

1. The United States Has a Rich and Proud History of Its Citizens Serving in the Armed Forces. Throughout our nation’s history, millions of Americans have defended and protected the United States and its people through their brave and selfless service in the Armed Forces.

2. The United States Recognizes the Sacrifices of its Armed Forces Members in Various Ways. There are myriad ways we honor the contributions of those who serve in the Armed Forces. One way in which the United States recognizes the sacrifices of its Armed Forces members is to help pay for educational programs for our veterans through various federal G.I. Bills which the Congress has enacted over the years. While these bills have the primary effect of providing our veterans with higher education degrees and facilitating their readjustment to civilian life after service, they also have the ancillary effect of boosting local economies, increasing the number of skilled workers in cities and states, and repopulating areas that have been depleted because of veterans’ service in the Armed Forces.

3. New Funding for Veterans’ Education Has Just Become Available. Recognizing that the current educational assistance program for veterans was outdated, Congress recently passed, and, last week, the President signed into law, the latest G.I. Bill: the Post 9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 (“Post 9/11 Act”). The Post 9/11 Act entitles veterans, who served in the Armed Forces on or after September 11, 2001, to receive up to thirty-six (36) months of monetary assistance to cover costs associated with attendance at a qualifying educational institution for an authorized program of study. Veterans who qualify for this monetary assistance, which can be used at public colleges and universities across the United States and covers their respective in-state tuition rates, may begin receiving this benefit beginning August 1, 2009. The Post 9/11 Act benefits are separate G.I. benefits from those available to other veterans who served our nation before September 11, 2001.

4. Ohio is Committed to Ensuring that Our Nation’s Veterans and Their Families Receive the Services and Support that They Deserve. Ohioans recognize and celebrate the sacrifices that all veterans have made in serving this country. We believe that these veterans and their families should have the greatest possible access to the benefits that they have earned and Ohio is eager to do its part in honoring veterans’ dedication to their country.

5. The Chancellor’s Authority to Determine Who May Pay Reduced In-State Rates. Ohio residents are entitled to pay a reduced “in-state” tuition rate at our public colleges and universities. Ohio law allows the Chancellor of the Ohio Board of Regents (OBOR) to establish, through administrative rule-making, which students at Ohio’s public colleges and universities are deemed Ohio residents, and therefore entitled to pay the reduced in-state tuition rate. Furthermore, Ohio law provides the Chancellor wide discretion in making that determination, but indicates that he should not include within the definition of residents those who are present in the state primarily for the purpose of attending a state-supported or state-assisted institution of higher education.

6. Residency Status of Active Duty and National Guard Servicemembers. The Ohio Administrative Code currently defines those on active or National Guard duty in Ohio as residents who are entitled to pay a reduced in-state tuition rate.

7. Recognizing the Value of Attracting Veterans to Ohio. Veterans are known to be significant contributors to the workforces of which they are a part. They generally have a strong work ethic, significant work experience, clear recognition of the importance of teamwork, and an array of other attributes making them valued employees at their workplaces. It is, unquestionably, in the interest of Ohio employers to expand Ohio’s workforce to include more veterans.

8. Encouraging Veterans to Settle in Ohio. The Chancellor, the Director of Veterans Services and I all believe that those who come to Ohio to complete a course of study at one of our public colleges or universities are, in general, more likely to permanently settle in Ohio than those who do not. We also believe that those who conduct community service activity while engaged in a course of study at one of our public colleges or universities and those who participate in internships or co-op programs during that course of study are, in general, more likely than others to stay in Ohio following the conclusion of their course of study. And we believe that veterans are looking for communities in which to settle which honor and celebrate their service to our nation and which are working to maximize the value of their benefits under the various G.I. Bills. Accordingly, we believe that veterans who come to Ohio to complete a course of study at one of our public colleges or universities and who participate in community service programs or internship or co-op programs during that course of study, are evidencing an intent to stay permanently in Ohio and, on the whole, are far more likely to do so than others coming to Ohio to avail themselves of the University System of Ohio.

9. Broadly Defining Veterans as Ohio Residents. By expansively including veterans and their spouses and dependents within the definition of residents entitled to pay in-state tuition rates at our public colleges and universities, we maximize the value of their G.I. Bill benefits while increasing the likelihood that more veterans will ultimately settle in Ohio, thus benefiting Ohio’s employers. Accordingly, the Chancellor has determined that veterans, along with their spouses and dependents, who live in Ohio while attending a public college or university will be conclusively presumed to have demonstrated an intent to reside permanently in Ohio, and therefore will be deemed residents of Ohio entitled to pay in-state tuition rates, when they:

a. are eligible for benefits under the Post 9/11 Act or any prior federal act establishing veterans’ education benefits,

b. remain domiciled in Ohio during their course of study, and

c. during that course of study, accept a community service position approved by the Chancellor or participate in an internship or co-op program established by the Chancellor or the college or university to which they have been accepted.

9. Procedure for the Immediate Adoption of New Rule. Section 119.03 of the Ohio Revised Code authorizes the Governor, on the request of a state agency, to suspend the normal rule-making procedures with respect to a specific rule, when an emergency exists necessitating the immediate adoption, amendment or rescission of the rule. When such a determination is made, the agency may immediately adopt that rule, but the rule is valid for only ninety (90) days.

10. Determination of an Emergency. I believe that an emergency exists justifying the suspension of the normal rule-making process when failure to act immediately would negatively impact the citizens of Ohio. The Chancellor of the Ohio Board of Regents has asked me to determine, and I have determined, that the failure to immediately adopt a rule expanding the definition of “resident” to include veterans evidencing intent to reside permanently in Ohio will negatively impact the people of Ohio. Therefore, an emergency exists necessitating the immediate adoption of a new administrative rule in this regard.

11. Authorization for Immediate Rule Implementation. Accordingly, the normal rule-making procedures are suspended with respect to the adoption of Rule 3333-1-10(E)(9) of the Ohio Administrative Code, establishing that certain veterans, their spouses and their dependents shall be deemed Ohio residents for the purpose of determining their entitlement to pay in-state tuition rates at Ohio’s public colleges and universities. The Chancellor may, therefore, adopt this rule immediately by electronically filing it with the Secretary of State, the Director of the Legislative Service Commission, and the Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review.

12. Making this Temporary Rule Permanent. Because this Order can only authorize the implementation of this new rule for ninety (90) days, the Chancellor is directed to immediately take steps to establish, through a filing with the Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review, a proposed permanent addition of Rule 3333-1-10(E)(9) to the Ohio Administrative Code.

13. All Colleges and Universities in the University System of Ohio shall become Servicemember Opportunity Colleges. The Chancellor shall work with Ohio’s public universities and colleges and with the American Council on Education (ACE) to insure that each institution is certified as a Servicemember Opportunity College. This step, which is part of the Strategic Plan for Higher Education, will allow all college credits received during military service and approved by ACE, to transfer to every University System of Ohio institution.

14. Establishment of The Ohio G.I. Promise Council. In order to promote educational opportunities in Ohio for veterans and to ensure that the University System of Ohio has the best possible educational opportunities and student support services for veterans, I will appoint, in consultation with the Chancellor, the Adjutant General and the Director of Veterans Services, The Ohio G.I. Promise Council. This Council will be charged with developing recommendations and taking steps to encourage veterans across the United States to come, with their spouses and dependents, to Ohio to utilize their G.I. Bill benefits, and to identify resources which can be utilized to advise veterans about the educational opportunities available to them in Ohio.

15. I signed this Executive Order on July 8, 2008 in Columbus, Ohio. The portion of the Order authorizing the implementation of a new administrative rule under suspended rule-making procedures will expire at the end of the ninetieth day this Order is in effect, October 6, 2008. All other portions of this Order will expire on my last day as Governor unless rescinded before then.

______________________________
Ted Strickland, Governor

ATTEST:
_________________________________
Jennifer Brunner, Secretary of State

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today announced the appointments of former state Rep. Bill Hartnett as the director of the newly established Ohio Department of Veterans Services and Tim Espich as the assistant director of the department.

Strickland signed legislation on May 23 that created the Ohio Department of Veterans Services, which assumes the duties of the Governor’s Office of Veterans Affairs, the Ohio Veterans Home Agency and the Ohio War Orphan Scholarship Board. The legislation to establish the department takes effect on August 21.

Bill Hartnett, Director of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services

Bill Hartnett, of Mansfield, is a U.S. Navy veteran of the Korean War era. He currently serves as the legislative director in the Governor’s Office.

As director of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services, Hartnett will serve as a member of the Governor’s Cabinet.

“Bill is an honorable man and dedicated public servant who will be a tireless advocate for Ohio’s veterans,” Strickland said. “At a time when more and more Ohioans are returning from war, I trust that Bill will lead the department with a deep commitment to ensuring that all veterans have access to the benefits and services that they deserve.”

Hartnett represented the 73rd District in the Ohio House of Representatives from 1998-2006.

An educator for more than 30 years, Hartnett was a teacher for several school districts in north central Ohio and most recently served as the superintendent for the Madison Local School District in Mansfield. He also served as the vice president and interim president of North Central State College and as an adjunct faculty member at Ashland University.

Hartnett is a member of AMVETS and the Korean War Veterans Association. He received the AMVETS-Department of Ohio Legislative Award in 2001.

Hartnett earned a bachelor’s degree from Kent State University, a master’s degree from West Virginia University and a specialist in education degree from Kent State University.

Tim Espich, Assistant Director of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services

Tim Espich, of Springfield, has served as the director of the Governor’s Office of Veterans Affairs since 2005.

“Tim has been strong voice for our veterans and their families as director of the Governor’s Office of Veterans Affairs,” Strickland said. “His military experience and his relationship with our veterans’ community will be a tremendous asset to the new department.”

Espich enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard in 1981 as a computer operator and became a full-time active guard soldier in 1984. In his 24 years of military service, he served in several positions, including platoon, battalion and operations sergeant, and retired as a master sergeant in September 2005.

Espich is the recipient of numerous military awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal and the Ohio Distinguished Service Medal.

Espich is a graduate of Franklin University.

Governor’s Office Legislative Staff

Kris Long, currently the deputy legislative director in the Governor’s Office, will assume the role of legislative director. She served as the governor’s policy executive assistant for public safety, criminal justice and the Bureau of Workers' Compensation from January 2007 to January 2008.

Long previously served as chief of staff and legal counsel for the Ohio Senate Democratic Caucus and worked in private practice in Michigan. Long received a bachelor’s degree from Hope College in Michigan in 1991 and a law degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1998.

Karundi Williams will assume the position of deputy legislative director in the Governor’s Office. Williams is currently the legislative affairs coordinator at the Ohio Department of Transportation.

A high resolution photo of Bill Hartnett is available at the following link:
http://governor.ohio.gov/Portals/0/Misc/BillHartnett.jpg

A high resolution photo of Tim Espich is available at the following link:
http://governor.ohio.gov/Portals/0/Misc/TimEspich.jpg

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today announced that he will host 12 forums across the state this summer focusing on reforming education in Ohio.

“There is nothing more important to Ohio's economic future than making sure that we have a world-class system of education,” Strickland said. "These forums are the beginning of a conversation with the people of Ohio about how best to reform education in our great state."

The “Governor’s Conversation on Education” forums will focus on the six principles for education reform as outlined in the Governor’s State of the State address as well as specific policy ideas for fostering a system of education in Ohio that is innovative, personalized and linked to economic prosperity. A second round of education forums will be held later in the fall of 2008 and will focus on how to properly finance a truly reformed system of education. The governor plans to introduce his education reform proposal in 2009.

“Ohio’s education system has many strengths, but despite our progress we haven’t kept pace with the rest of the world,” Strickland said. “It will take collaboration among business leaders, parents, students, teachers and school administrators to develop a plan that makes Ohio a leader in innovation and gives our students the preparation and skills they need to be successful in a global environment.”

Strickland also launched a Web site, http://www.ConversationOnEducation.Org, which provides the public and forum participants with details about the regional forums and will include ways to submit feedback during and after the forums.

The dates, times and locations for the “Governor’s Conversation on Education” regional forums are listed below. Each forum will be available through a live Webcast at http://www.ConversationOnEducation.Org.

Most regional forums will also air live on the local PBS station. Stations without a live broadcast will tape and air their local forums following the event. Feeds of the forums will be provided to media outlets by Ohio Government Television.

Educators, business leaders, parents and students, among others, will make up the live audiences. In addition, each school district in the region will be encouraged to organize at least one “watch party” for the broadcast or Webcast and conduct a facilitated group discussion following the forum.

At each meeting, Strickland will discuss his six principles for education reform and specific ideas while facilitating an interactive conversation with audience members and Webcast and television viewers.

Below are the times/dates for the forums.

Tuesday, July 22nd
FRANKLIN COUNTY
WHAT: Governor’s Conversation on Education
WHEN: 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
WHERE: COSI Studio
333 W. Broad St.
Columbus, OH 43215

Wednesday, July 23rd
SUMMIT COUNTY
WHAT: Governor’s Conversation on Education
WHEN: 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
WHERE: Akron North High School
985 Gorge Blvd.
Akron, OH 44310

Monday, July 28th
HAMILTON COUNTY
WHAT: Governor’s Conversation on Education
WHEN: 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
WHERE: CET Studio
1223 Central Parkway
Cincinnati, OH 45214

Tuesday, July 29th
MONTGOMERY COUNTY
WHAT: Governor’s Conversation on Education
WHEN: 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
WHERE: University of Dayton
Boll Theater, Kennedy Union
300 College Park
Dayton, OH 45469

Wednesday, August 6th
CUYAHOGA COUNTY
WHAT: Governor’s Conversation on Education
WHEN: 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
WHERE: Idea Center at Playhouse Square
Westfield Insurance Studio Theatre
1375 Euclid Ave.
Cleveland, OH 44115

Monday, August 11th
MUSKINGUM COUNTY
WHAT: Governor’s Conversation on Education
WHEN: 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
WHERE: Ohio University Zanesville
Elson Hall Auditorium
1425 Newark Rd.
Zanesville, OH 43701

Tuesday, August 12th
ROSS COUNTY
WHAT: Governor’s Conversation on Education
WHEN: 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
WHERE: Ohio University Chillicothe
Bennett Hall Auditorium
101 University Dr.
Chillicothe, OH 45601

Friday, August 15th
ALLEN COUNTY
WHAT: Governor’s Conversation on Education
WHEN: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
WHERE: Rhodes State Community College
Science Building, Room 100
4240 Campus Dr.
Lima, OH 45804

Monday, August 18th
WASHINGTON COUNTY
WHAT: Governor’s Conversation on Education
WHEN: 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
WHERE: Marietta College
McDonough Auditorium
215 Fifth St.
Marietta, OH 45750

Wednesday, August 20th
LUCAS COUNTY
WHAT: Governor’s Conversation on Education
WHEN: 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
WHERE: Rogers High School
222 McTigue Dr.
Toledo, OH 43615

Wednesday, September 3rd
MAHONING COUNTY
WHAT: Governor’s Conversation on Education
WHEN: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
WHERE: Youngstown State University
Kilcawley Center, Chestnut Room
One University Plaza
Youngstown, OH 44555

Monday, September 15th
RICHLAND COUNTY
WHAT: Governor’s Conversation on Education
WHEN: 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
WHERE: Ohio State University Mansfield
Ovalwood Hall, Founders Auditorium
1680 University Dr.
Mansfield, OH 44906