State of Ohio News

January 2012

January 31, 2012 – Don't Get Me Started Campaign Announced

Columbus, Ohio – Continuing the state's successful efforts to address the growing problem of prescription drug addiction, today Director Orman Hall, of the Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services (ODADAS), announced the launch of Don't Get Me Started, a statewide public service campaign that speaks to young adults and their friends and family, in partnership with the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities (OACBHA). In 2007, accidental drug overdose became the leading cause of injury death in Ohio, surpassing motor vehicle crashes and suicide for the first time on record.¹

Governor John R. Kasich commented on the campaign, "Prescription drug abuse has besieged communities across the state, destroying the lives of young people and adults. We've made tremendous strides to improve access to treatment, shut down illegal pill mills, go after doctors over-prescribing prescription painkillers and educate young adults statewide about the dangers of prescription opiate abuse. This lifesaving effort will grow even stronger through this campaign."

Don't Get Me Started drives Ohio residents to www.dontgetmestartedohio.org to watch videos of five Ohioans who each share a unique story about how prescription drug addiction has impacted their life. The site features an interactive map of local Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Boards; a link to treatment options in each county; information about the opiate abuse epidemic around the state; and links to other partners in the war on drugs, including GenerationRx, a joint venture between Cardinal Health and The Ohio State School of Pharmacy, as well as the Ohio Department of Health Prescription for Prevention campaign.

The campaign will be featured on posters at hundreds of convenience stores and other organizations around the state, each with a QR code linking to an individual story; limited billboards in highly-affected counties; online banner ads on music, social media and gaming sites popular with young adults; and a dedicated Facebook page where those affected by prescription drug abuse can share their own story.

"In a little more than a decade, there's been a 900 percent increase in the number of prescription opiates prescribed for pain per Ohio resident²," said Cheri L. Walter, chief executive officer of OACBHA. "We applaud the ODADAS and Ohio's Alcohol and Drug Addiction Boards and their local partners for demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing the opiate epidemic in Ohio."

ODADAS Director Orman Hall added, "The steps we are taking to wipe out this opiate epidemic have to include less opiate prescribing and effective addiction treatment for Ohioans who need it. With support across state government and in the nonprofit and corporate sectors, we will change the course of opiate addiction, whether it's from painkillers or heroin."

To hear the stories of real people impacted by the prescription painkiller epidemic, and to get information about treatment options in each county, visit www.dontgetmestartedohio.org. To join in the prescription opiate conversation online, visit www.facebook.com/dontgetmestatedohio.

¹Source: Ohio Department of Health Bureau of Vital Statistics
²Source: Ohio State Board of Pharmacy

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January 30, 2012 – Ready, Set, Snap

Columbus, Ohio – The fourth annual Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp Contest will feature black-capped and Carolina chickadees, which are common in Ohio and frequent backyard feeders.

The two species look nearly identical, but black-capped chickadees occupy the northern 1/3 of the state, and Carolina chickadees are found in the southern 2/3 of the state.

"We encourage Ohio residents to use their photography skills to showcase our native songbirds," said James Zehringer, director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). "This is a unique opportunity to share the beauty of our black-capped and Carolina chickadees."

Entries will be accepted Aug. 13-31, and the photographer with the winning image will receive $500. The contest is open to Ohioans age 18 years and older, however, budding photographers, age 17 and younger, will be able to compete in the youth division. For complete contest rules, visit www.wildohiostamp.com.

Photographers submitted 58 images during last year's contest. The winning salamander photograph was captured by Nina Harfmann of Pleasant Plain. Her photo of a spotted salamander will appear on the 2012 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp and be available for purchase on March 1.

The inaugural Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp, featuring a Baltimore oriole, went on sale March 1, 2010. Since then the stamp has raised more than $45,000. The collectible stamp and its companion photo contest are part of an innovative program intended to raise awareness and support for wildlife diversity.

It is important to note $14 out of every $15 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp sold is invested in Ohio's Wildlife Diversity Fund. The fund supports habitat restoration, purchases and conservation easements, wildlife and habitat research projects, creation of wildlife educational materials, as well as efforts to restore and conserve endangered and threatened species.

Promotion and sale of the Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp has been a grassroots effort and found early success thanks to the dedication of conservation groups across Ohio. For a limited time only, stamp collectors and conservationists will be able to purchase the 2010 and 2011 stamps.

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January 27, 2012 – Attorney General DeWine Warns of Online Scams

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine is encouraging Ohio families to guard their personal information and avoid online scams during International Data Privacy Day on Saturday, January 28.

"Protecting your personal information online helps keep you and your family safer from fraud," Attorney General Mike DeWine said. "My office is working to prosecute scammers, but it's also important to protect yourself. Take a few extra safeguards to keep your personal information out of the hands of others."

Attorney General DeWine offers the following tips for consumers:

• Avoid over-sharing. Think twice before sharing information such as your name, address, or date of birth online. Your new online "friend" may be a scammer trying to take your money.
• Keep your password to yourself. Sharing passwords with friends or family reduces the control you have over your accounts. Change your passwords regularly, and make all your passwords unique and complex, using a variety of letters and characters. Don't use your birth date, maiden name, Social Security number, or other numbers that identify you.
• Strengthen security settings. Familiarize yourself with the security settings of each of your online accounts, such as email, online banking, and social networking. Restrict access to any information you don't want to be publicly available.
• Encrypt data. When using a wireless router, make sure your network is secured. Having a secured wireless network makes it very difficult for someone to access your home computer or Internet.
• Be careful where you click. Pop-up ads, attachments, or links in email messages may be part of a scam to get your personal information. Even if you trust the sender, beware. Hacking has become so prevalent that a message from a family member or friend could be a scam sent through a compromised account. Be especially cautious if an email contains only a link and/or a generic line, such as "Check this out!" Before you click or open the attachment, call your friend or the business directly to verify its legitimacy.

Attorney General DeWine also is warning consumers of a fake anti-virus scam in which a pop-up tells consumers, "Your computer has been infected. Click here to resolve this matter." When consumers click on the ad, the virus hides their documents and other personal information saved on their computer.

The scam also shuts down consumers' ability to connect to any Internet sites except the scammer's own site. Plus, it triggers a virus alert warning that appears whenever consumers run an application and stops only when consumers enter their credit card information to pay for the scammer's anti-virus software. To protect themselves, consumers should always use trusted anti-virus software and update it regularly. For more information on the scam, search the Internet for the words "fake anti-virus scam."

Consumers may report potential scams to the Ohio Attorney General's Office at www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov or 800-282-0515.

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January 26, 2012 – Ohio Lake Erie Commission Relocates Office to Sandusky

Toledo, Ohio – The Ohio Lake Erie Commission (OLEC) will be moving their office from its current location at One Maritime Plaza in Toledo to a new location in Sandusky. The new location will enable the Commission to be centrally located for the area it serves across the Ohio Lake Erie basin. The new contact information for the Ohio Lake Erie Commission, effective Feb. 1, will be:

111 E. Shoreline Drive, Suite C
Sandusky, Ohio 44870
Phone: 419-621-2040
Fax: 419-621-2042

In addition to the relocation of the office, the Commission has suspended the winter quarter Lake Erie Protection Fund grant cycle. As a result, the next opportunity for Lake Erie Protection Fund grants will be in the spring of 2012, which has an application deadline of May 3.

The Ohio Lake Erie Commission was established for the purpose of preserving Lake Erie's natural resources, protecting the quality of its waters and ecosystem and promoting economic development in the region. Director James Zehringer of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) serves as the Commission's chairman. Additional members include the directors of the Ohio Department of Transportation, the Ohio Department of Health, the Ohio Department of Development, the Ohio Department of Agriculture and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency.

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January 24, 2012 – Ohioans Can Renew Boat Registrations Online

Columbus, Ohio – Now is the time for Ohioans to renew their watercraft registrations if they are set to expire on March 1. The renewal process can be completed conveniently online, through the mail or in person, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Watercraft.

Ohio watercraft registrations are valid for a period of three years. In 2011, Ohio had a record of 426,674 registered watercraft, and approximately 1/3 of Ohio's watercraft registrations will expire on March 1. The Division of Watercraft processed a record of 16,635 registration renewals online at www.ohiodnr.com/watercraft in 2011.

The Division of Watercraft encourages boat owners to take advantage of the online registration renewal system if they are not making any changes to boat information included in their registration.

Owner information, such as a mailing address, may be changed when using the online watercraft registration renewal process. Multiple boat registrations may be renewed online in one transaction. These secure renewal transactions require the use of a valid MasterCard or Visa credit card in addition to a Division of Watercraft assigned boat registration personal identification number.

The online renewal process may be utilized 24 hours a day, seven days a week through September 30. Once the boat owner's transaction is successfully completed, a valid boat registration and decals will be sent in the mail within 10 days.

Ohio boat owners also may renew their watercraft registrations by mail through June 30, if they have no changes to information included on their registration, including owner information. Ohioans also may renew watercraft registrations in person when visiting a watercraft registration agent.

A listing of watercraft registration agents, which includes each of the Division of Watercraft's 11 area office locations, fee schedules and other registration information, is available online at www.ohiodnr.com/watercraft or by calling the Division of Watercraft toll free (in Ohio only) at 877-4BOATER (877-426-2837).

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January 24, 2012 – State Public Notice Website Targeted for February Launch

Columbus, Ohio – Beginning in early February, courts, judges or clerks required by the Ohio Revised Code to publish public notices multiple times in a newspaper will be able to turn to a free statewide website as an alternative.

The most recent state budget bill charged the state's Office of Information Technology with creating a state public notice website.

New Ohio Revised Code section 7.16 allows a state agency or political subdivision, after initially publishing the notice in full in a general circulation newspaper, to subsequently publish an "abbreviated" notice in the newspaper if the notice directs the public to the full notice on the state public notice website. Supreme Court staff has identified about a dozen instances in statute that require multiple notices by courts, judges or clerks.

View a list of statutory references (PDF).

The OIT notes that users will need to register with the Ohio Business Gateway and establish an online account to use the state public notice website. OIT launched an informational version of the state public notice website on January 18. Go to PublicNotice.Ohio.gov to access the site.

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January 23, 2012 – Mobile Phone App Gives Ohioans Access to Tens of Thousands of Job Openings

Columbus, Ohio – The new OhioMeansJobs mobile phone application allows Ohioans to search, save and apply for jobs from their iPhone, iPad or Android device. The app combines unique data from the state of Ohio with advanced search tools and filter technology from Monster. Job seekers can use the app to view their resumes and search tens of thousands of job openings by job title, keyword and location.

"The OhioMeansJobs mobile app makes finding your next job faster and easier," said Ohio Department of Job and Family Services Director Michael Colbert. "The app and website combine to provide the information, tips, specialized search tools and targeted exposure that sets a job seeker apart from the pack."

Developed through a partnership with Monster, the mobile app also aggregates internship openings posted on nearly any website in Ohio.

"At the Board of Regents, we are focused on helping students complete their education and find a career," Chancellor Jim Petro said. "Mobile devices such as iPhones are the type of technology these students are using. By using the mobile phone app to inform students about jobs and internships, we are reaching out to them in a way they are comfortable communicating."

The OhioMeansJobs website also offers specialized job search assistance for Ohio's veterans and always lists veterans' resumes first when employers are searching for candidates.

In addition to serving job seekers, OhioMeansJobs is a valuable tool for business owners and hiring managers. The website gives Ohio-based employers free access to the Monster resume bank, a savings of more than $10,000 annually, and provides information on how a business owner's next hire could earn him or her an $8,000 On-the-Job Training grant. On-the-Job Training grants allow businesses to hire and train the right person for less by providing cash reimbursement for hiring an eligible, out-of-work Ohioan.

Employers can post job openings on OhioMeansJobs for free and use advanced search tools and customizing filters to narrow down many resumes to a smaller group of the most promising candidates.

The Ohio Means Jobs app can be downloaded at the iPhone App Store and the Android Market.

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January 20, 2012 – Electronic Equipment Up for Bid

Columbus, Ohio – TVs, digital cameras and other electronic equipment will be among the wide variety of items available for bid at the State of Ohio miscellaneous property auction Saturday, January 28.

The auction will be held at the Ohio Department of Administrative Services, General Services Division headquarters, 4200 Surface Road, Columbus, 43228. The doors open at 8 a.m.; the auction begins at 9 a.m.

Available electronic equipment includes computers, monitors and printers. Other items include a drum set, outboard motors, a bicycle and utility tools as well as wood desks and credenzas.

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

All purchased items must be picked up by 4 p.m. Wednesday, February 1. Regular warehouse hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The warehouse is open until 6 p.m. on the day of the auction.

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

Public auctions are the last step in the state's surplus program. State agencies declare property as surplus because it is damaged or at the end of its life cycle for government use. In addition, property may include items seized by law enforcement officials as well as items contributed by airline passengers. The property then is made available to other state agencies, state higher education facilities, tax-supported agencies, municipal corporations and other political subdivisions of the state, including public schools. Remaining property is sold at the public auctions.

For more information, please contact Jim Rooker at 614.466.7636 or visit the DAS State and Federal Surplus Services website at www.ohio.gov/surplus.

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January 19, 2012 – Boomers Encouraged to Review Health Insurance Options before Retirement

Early Retirees need to fill Coverage Gap before being Eligible for Medicare

Columbus, Ohio – Many baby boomers may be considering the idea of early retirement in 2012. For some, a lifetime of working could mean a good pension and benefits, but more companies are changing their retirement benefits leaving boomers to find alternative health insurance.

Lieutenant Governor and Department of Insurance Director Mary Taylor encourages boomers to utilize resources designed to help them understand coverage options before Medicare eligibility begins at age 65.

"Before reaching retirement, talk to your employer as well as your insurance agent and get a sense of what options are available," Taylor said. "Planning ahead will help you find the best coverage option making the transition into retirement easier and less stressful."

If an employer is not offering to extend health insurance coverage beyond the boomer's retirement date, Taylor said the following options should be considered:

Spouse's Policy: If your spouse is still employed and has access to benefits, see if you can be added to the policy. This is likely your most affordable option.

COBRA: The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) lets former employees and their dependents continue coverage up to 18 months. While your employer cannot refuse coverage through COBRA, it is unlikely that they will continue to subsidize the premium. They may also charge an administrative fee.

Military: If you are a retired military veteran, you may be eligible to join the Defense Department's Tricare plan. You can learn who is eligible for TriCare coverage at www.tricare.mil.

Individual Coverage: Because these plans can be complicated, utilize your insurance agent to find the right policy. Make sure to ask if vision, hearing and dental coverage are included or if it is possible to add them.

Ohio High Risk Pool and Open Enrollment: A high risk pool was created in Ohio to help adults with pre-existing conditions find individual coverage. To be eligible for this subsidized coverage certain qualifications must be met. Visit www.ohiohighriskpool.com for more information. Participating open enrollment insurers are required to offer coverage at a limited cost to people who apply on a first-come, first-serve basis. Also, certain requirements must be met. Information is available at www.insurance.ohio.gov.

High Deductible Health Plans (HDHP): These plans only cover catastrophic health care costs. This means you will be responsible for paying more of the upfront cost before the policy pays for eligible medical expenses. HDHPs have a lower premium to compensate for the higher out-of-pocket costs incurred with these high deductibles. Often HDHPs work with a Health Savings Account (HSA) that allows you to set aside funds for future qualified medical expenses.

Taylor said it is critical to understand the terms and coverage of the different policy options and to keep in mind that the lowest premium option may not provide the coverage you need for your health status. It is also important to have the following questions answered when comparing coverage:

• What are the deductibles or coinsurance payments?
• What are the limits on coverage?
• Can I see my current doctor or seek treatment in the same hospitals?
• Is there an annual limit to what the insurance company will pay for any particular coverage?
• Is there a cap on the out-of-pocket amounts I have to pay?
• How often will my policy be reviewed or how often can I expect a premium change?
• Are prescription drugs covered?

Boomers with health insurance questions can call the Department's consumer hotline at 1-800-686-1526. Ohioans seeking information about Medicare should call the Department's Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP) at 1-800-686-1578. Information is also available at www.insurance.ohio.gov.

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January 19, 2012 – Ohioans Report Losing $2 Million to Sweepstakes Scams in 2011

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine today warned Ohioans to be on the lookout for sweepstakes scams. In 2011, the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Section logged nearly 1,500 complaints about sweepstakes and prizes that reportedly cost Ohioans about $2 million in losses.

"In a typical sweepstakes scam, consumers receive a letter or call saying they've won an international lottery," DeWine said. "In order to collect the winnings, however, they must send money to cover processing fees or taxes. In reality, they haven't won a prize, and any money they send will be lost."

The Attorney General's Consumer Protection Section fields tens of thousands of complaints a year. In 2011, the section received more than 31,000 complaints. While many complaints involved disputes between consumers and businesses, others involved potential scams.

For example, consumers reported 1,461 sweepstakes and prize complaints in 2011. Most complaints in that category were reports of potential scams.

"We're pushing for stronger tools to go after these scammers," DeWine said. "Sweepstakes and lottery scams have been around for decades, and they continue to work. We're taking a new approach to dealing with scams — working with law enforcement to bring criminal action against the perpetrators."

In 2011, Attorney General DeWine created the Economic Crimes Division to identify criminal conduct in consumer fraud cases and to assist Ohio's prosecuting attorneys in holding scammers criminally accountable for their actions. In 2011, the division investigated dozens of cases that led to nine people being charged with felony-level crimes.

"Sweepstakes and Prizes" was the eighth most common complaint category reported to the Consumer Protection Section in 2011.

The 2011 top ten consumer complaint categories are:

1. Motorized Vehicles
2. Collections, Credit Reporting, or Financial Services
3. Internet or Phone
4. Health and Beauty
5. Household Goods or Property Improvement
6. Professional Services
7. Shopping, Food, or Beverages
8. Sweepstakes or Prizes
9. Utilities
10. Mortgages

Attorney General DeWine encourages consumers to report potential scams or unfair business practices to his office at www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov or 800-282-0515.

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January 18, 2012 – Ohio to Expand Patient-Centered Primary Care Initiative

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Health (ODH), in partnership with the Governor's Office of Health Transformation (OHT), today announced that Ohio will invest $1 million to assist primary health-care practices around the state transition to a patient-centered medical home (PCMH) model of care and expand the number of PCMH practice sites in Ohio.

The PCMH model of care promotes partnerships between patients and their primary health-care providers to improve care coordination and bolster individuals' health outcomes. Patient care is coordinated using state-of-the-art tools such as registries, information technology, health information exchange and other means to assure that individuals get appropriate care when and where they need it.

"Ohioans spend more per person on health care than residents in all but 13 states, but we rank 42 among states in positive health outcomes," said Greg Moody, director of the Office of Health Transformation. "Today's announcement represents a commitment to reversing that trend and acts on Governor Kasich's instructions to engage private-sector partners to improve overall health-system performance."

Substitute House Bill 198 of the 128^th General Assembly, sponsored by state Senator (then-Representative) Peggy Lehner (R-Kettering), paved the way for the Ohio PCMH Education Pilot Project to be developed in 44 primary-care practices throughout the state. The legislation was designed around national standards for PCMHs and provides training for health-care providers in this enhanced model of primary care.

"I am pleased to announce that we will not only implement the PCMH program envisioned in HB 198 but expand it to include a total of 50 physician practices throughout the state," said ODH Director Ted Wymyslo, M.D. "In addition, we will give priority to practices that serve underserved or minority populations, and at least 15 percent of every practice that receives training dollars must support either uninsured or Medicaid-eligible Ohioans."

"Patient-centered medical homes have shown promise in other states in eliminating health-care disparities within racial and ethnic populations," said Angela Cornelius Dawson, executive director of the Ohio Commission on Minority Health and a member of the Ohio Patient-Centered Primary Care Collaborative. "We are encouraged by the Kasich administration's efforts to address health-care disparities in our minority communities by committing to include socioeconomic factors and racial and minority populations as criteria when selecting the additional PCMH practice sites."

"This announcement is another important step in reforming Ohio's health-care delivery system and giving Ohioans the quality of care they need to have good health at every stage of life," Dr. Wymyslo said. "A patient-centered medical home leads to better health and reduces costs for individuals and taxpayers."

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January 17, 2012 – Secretary of State Releases Year-end Filing Figures for New Businesses

Announces updates to filing forms for companies to make doing business in Ohio easier

Columbus, Ohio – Secretary of State Jon Husted today announced that 82,601 new entities filed to do business in Ohio in 2011. Those numbers are up compared to 2010, in which 80,081 new entities filed. Secretary Husted also announced the roll-out of updates to filing forms designed to make is easier for domestic and foreign companies to do business in Ohio.

"When it comes to the number of new businesses choosing to operate in Ohio, our state is heading in the right direction," Secretary Husted said. "The Secretary of State's office continues to do its part to ensure a more welcoming business environment, working to streamline the filing process for Ohio companies. We hope for an even more prosperous year for Ohio in 2012."

The year-end numbers include figures for December 2011, in which the Secretary of State's office assisted with 6,463 new business filings. This is a slight increase from December 2010, in which there were 6,226 new entities filed.

The Secretary of State's office has also revamped forms used by companies to register their business in Ohio. These updates are aimed at helping to reduce common filing errors and implement revisions based on feedback from Ohio businesses and those who frequently use the forms. Additional information on these improvements is available online, under the business services section of the Secretary of State's website.

Though the most visible role of the Secretary of State is that of chief elections officer, the office is also the first stop for individuals or companies who want to file and start a business in Ohio. While recognizing these numbers can't provide a complete picture of Ohio's jobs climate, they are an important indicator of economic activity that Secretary Husted hopes will add to the discussion of how to improve the state's overall climate for business.

NOTE: New business filings are classified as forms filed with the Ohio Secretary of State that declare the formation of a business entity, including for-profit, non-profit and professional corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships, limited partnerships and limited liability partnerships. Filing as a business in Ohio does not guarantee the company will begin operations, be profitable or create jobs.

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January 13, 2012 – ODOT Warns Motorists Driving in Snow: "First is Worst"

Columbus, Ohio – As Ohioans anticipate driving in winter weather, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) says beware:  "First is Worst," especially on interstates and state-maintained highways, where speeds are faster and traffic volumes higher.

Research shows that by the time the first winter storm hits, most motorists have forgotten their winter driving skills. ODOT's best advice when driving in winter conditions, Ice & Snow, Take It Slow.

"Winter driving can be challenging and unpredictable," said ODOT Director Jerry Wray. "Our snowplow operators work hard treating and plowing the roads to ensure motorists have a safe commute.  We ask that you do your part and drive appropriately for the conditions."

Although winter-related fatalities on ODOT-maintained roads decreased by more than 40 percent last year — from 34 to 19 — there were still 37,751 winter-related crashes on Ohio's roadways. 

With more than 65 crashes involving motorists hitting snowplows last year, ODOT reminds motorists please "Don't Crowd The Plow."  Snowplows travel well below the posted speed limit and can make sudden stops and turns — don't tailgate and if you must pass take extreme caution and beware of the snow cloud.

Drivers can also do their part to be safe — whether it's the first storm or last — by following these tips:

• Plan Ahead: Before leaving home, find out about driving conditions by going to ODOT's premier website www.BuckeyeTraffic.org. Safe drivers know the weather, and their limits.
• See and be Seen: Remove any snow on your vehicle's windows, lights, brake lights and signals.
• Check the Clock: Leave plenty of time to reach your destination safely. It's not worth putting yourself and others in a dangerous situation just to be on time.
• Turn on your Lights: If you need to turn on your wipers, turn on your headlights — it's the law.

Although crashes on ODOT-maintained roads make up only 30 percent of all snow and ice crashes, in the 2009-2010 winter season nearly 64 percent of all winter-related fatalities occurred on Interstates, U.S. Routes and State Routes.

For more safety tips visit ODOT's Ice & Snow, Take It Slow website.

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January 12, 2012 – The State Honors Ohioans at Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration

Columbus, Ohio – Five Ohio individuals and organizations were recognized today at the 27^th annual Ohio Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Celebration for their efforts to advance social change.

The event, which was sponsored by the Ohio Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission, was held at the Capitol Theatre in the Vern Riffe Center for Government and the Arts, Columbus.

The speakers included G. Michael Payton, executive director of the Ohio Civil Rights Commission.

"Much like the great leaders of our country including George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Harriet Beecher Stowe, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a great patriot and prophet whose core principles and ideals are deeply rooted in our most cherished values as a nation," Payton said. "He taught us that we are all cut from the same fabric and what affects any one of us, ultimately will affect us all. Above all, he left us with the message that we all have a responsibility to ourselves and our community to remember Dr. King's legacy, celebrate what he stood for, and act in a way that upholds the values of equality and justice for everyone in our great nation."

Also at the event, the Ohio Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission presented awards to the following Ohioans:

Governor's Humanitarian Award criteria: The recipient of this award has acted independently of associations and organizations. The recipient has given his or her time and service freely to those in need without question and often without recognition. This award honors quiet soldiers who promote the welfare of humanity and elimination of pain and suffering through their own selfless service.

Winner: Dr. Yung-Chen Lu, Columbus – Lu is well known throughout Ohio for his dedication and commitment to serving Ohio's Asian American community. His efforts have helped increase the awareness throughout Ohio of issues and concerns of the Asian American population. Through his collaborating and networking he reaches tens of thousands of Asian Americans each year.

Noticing a need to help central Ohio's Asian American community, he and a few friends began serving hot meals to senior citizens in their community in 1994. Their efforts evolved into the Asian Seniors Meal Program. He and a few friends also started a free health clinic specifically for the Asian American population.

His contributions also include founding the Columbus Asian Festival, which was first held in 1995. The Memorial Day weekend festival has since grown to attract more than 150,000 attendees. In addition to serving on the festival's organizing committee each year, Lu is the fundraiser for the free festival.

Dr. Lu also is a member of the Greater Columbus Arts Council and was appointed by Governor John R. Kasich to chair the Ohio Asian American Pacific Islander Advisory Council.

Educational Excellence Award criteria: The recipient selected in this category recognizes the personal commitment and example that King provided for academic achievement. Therefore, the recipient has demonstrated a personal commitment to scholarship and/or attainment of educational goals despite significant barriers or obstacles. The recipient also has demonstrated outstanding accomplishments in eradicating systemic barriers that impede the attainment of academic excellence.

Winner: National Black MBA Association, Columbus Chapter – The Columbus chapter of the National Black MBA Association is a non-profit organization with more than 500 members who hold graduate degrees in a variety of disciplines. The association aims to help young people overcome obstacles to education through its Leaders of Tomorrow program, which focuses on improving the academic and leadership skills of minority high school students. To help increase the number of students entering college, especially in business-related disciplines, the members serve as mentors for marginally academic performing students who have leadership potential but need exposure and motivation to make good choices about college, their career and their future.

Social Justice Award criteria: The recipient selected in this category has made significant contributions toward achieving justice for individuals or communities. The recipient may have contributed through the legal, legislative and governmental systems as they apply to the more vulnerable elements of our society. The recipient has engaged in activities that embrace Dr. King's commitment to non-violence while fostering social justice.

Winner: Kyle Earley, Cleveland – Earley is the executive director of the Cleveland Voter Coalition, a nonpartisan voter coalition whose mission is to increase voter participation in Cleveland through education, engagement and empowerment outreach activities and events. He has been successful in engaging the community and its leaders by hosting a variety of community conversations with state and local political and community leaders on the importance of voting and pressing issues facing the community. The coalition has registered new voters, helped relocated voters update their voter registration information, built a strong volunteer base, created a strong relationship among clergy and institutions of faith and ignited a movement of social change through the power of the vote. Earley also helped organize the Cleveland Stop the Violence campaign.

Youth: Capturing the Vision of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Award criteria: The recipients selected in this category have exemplified leadership, commitment to excellence and inter-racial cooperation. The recipients also have demonstrated an adherence to one or more of Dr. King's principles of non-violent social change that include information gathering, education, negotiation, personal commitment, direct action and reconciliation. Youth selected in this category were younger than age 21 during the nomination process.

There were two winners in this category.

Winner: Girl Scout Troop 397, Lake Milton – Two years ago the troop developed what has become a project to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. each January. Having been visitors to the local Rescue Mission of Mahoning Valley on multiple occasions, the girls identified the needs for new pillows and pillow cases for mission residents. The inspiration for the project was Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech. The girls felt that in order to have a dream, one needed a pillow. The girls look forward to delivering the new pillows each year on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The troop is made up of the following students in grades eight through 12: Autumn Kozma, Kayla Malmfeldt, Danielle Metts, Samantha Metts, Brooke Rodgers, Dominique Trimboli, Elizabeth Stoneburner and Leah Yochman.

Winner: Mahoning Valley Sojourn to the Past, Youngstown – The contributions of the students participating in the Mahoning Valley Sojourn to the Past are many. The journey began five years ago with a small group of educators whose mission was to enable individuals to participate in educational activities that encouraged personal growth. In 2006, Penny Wells, then a history teacher at Volney Rogers Junior High School in Youngstown led this effort after attending a workshop about Sojourn to the Past, a national program where students take a 10-day educational journey along the path of the Civil Rights Movement through five Southern states. Each spring since 2007, Wells, who has since retired from teaching, has taken a group of high school students on the Sojourn to the Past trip. Prior to their travel, they are required to participate in weekly meetings where they study the Civil Rights Movement. After the first Youngstown group came home, they made numerous speeches to school and community groups and implemented a voter registration drive at area high schools and Youngstown State University. A couple of years later, another group of participants successfully petitioned leaders in Youngstown to declare the first week in October of each year Non-Violence Week in Youngstown. This fall the Sojourn to the Past participants, led by 12th-grader Janae Ward of Chaney High School, organized the first non-violence parade and rally, which was held October 2. More than 500 people — including community leaders and representatives from community organizations, churches, and YSU student organizations and athletic teams — participated.

Today's event also featured the following winners from the 2011 Statewide MLK Oratorical Contest, which also is sponsored by the Ohio Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission. The winners of this April contest who spoke today were McKenna Hensley, New Albany; Caitlyn Merkel, Lima; and Joel Yirenkyi, Columbus.

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January 10, 2012 – Ohio Youth Invited to Participate in Cyber Security Poster Contest

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio youth in grades kindergarten through 12 are invited to participate in the State of Ohio's Kids Safe Online poster contest. The contest, sponsored by the Office of Information Security and Privacy of the Ohio Department of Administrative Services, is part of a national contest held in collaboration with the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center to promote safe and secure Internet usage among young people.

Spreading the message about safe online behavior has never been more important. The majority of our youth are online, and the risks for cyber bullying, identify theft and other serious incidents among children is increasing.

The top three winning posters from each grade group (K-5, 6-8, 9-12) will be submitted to The Multi-State Cyber Security Awareness Calendar Contest. The winning posters from the Multi-State Cyber Security Awareness Calendar Contest will be displayed in the 2013 National Cyber Security Calendar and also may be used in campaigns to raise awareness among youth about Internet and computer safety.

For more information, official rules and the entry form, go to www.InfoSec.Ohio.gov and click on Kids Safe Online 2012 Poster Contest.

The deadline for poster art and entry forms is midnight Sunday, February 19, 2012. Late entries will not be accepted.

For more information, contact Rick Shipley, IT risk manager with the Office of Information Security & Privacy of the Ohio Department of Administrative Services, at 614.995.7632 or Rick.Shipley@Ohio.gov.

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January 9, 2012 – Ready, Set... File

Ohio opens electronic filing season today for income taxes

Columbus, Ohio – For those who hate to wait, the Ohio Department of Taxation today opened its doors for electronic filing of the 2011 Ohio income or school district tax return.

While paper tax returns will always be handled, the department is encouraging taxpayers to take advantage of the ease, convenience and speed of electronic filing — benefits that helped convince eight of every 10 taxpayers to file electronically last year.

The biggest benefit, of course, for most taxpayers is a speedy refund. Electronic filers typically see their refund deposited directly in their bank within five to seven days — significantly quicker than with paper returns.

If you want to join the electronic crowd, Ohio offers a few electronic filing options:

• I-File: This Web-based software asks taxpayers a series of questions, then compiles a state or school district income tax return based on their answers. I-File will even do the math, and it's free.
• eFile: Taxpayers who file through paid preparers or who use commercial software to prepare a return to file through the IRS e-file program.
• TeleFile: Ohio's dial-by-telephone filing method.

With so many Ohio taxpayers now choosing the benefits of filing electronically, the Department of Taxation is no longer mailing paper income tax booklets and forms to individual taxpayers. Tax Commissioner Joe Testa said the decision provides big financial savings, "Last year, more than 97% of the forms we mailed to taxpayers were not used so we decided to stop printing and mailing them. This will save Ohio taxpayers more than $1 million a year."

However, for those who need or want a paper booklet and forms, the department is making about 500,000 instruction booklets available at various libraries, banks and post offices around the state. The department will also send these materials to any taxpayer who requests them.

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January 6, 2012 – 2012 Columbus Deputy Registrar Proposer Conference

Columbus, Ohio – The 2012 Columbus Deputy Registrar Proposer Conference will be held on January 9, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. and January 13, 2012 at 11:00 a.m., both at the Ohio Department of Transportation Auditorium, 1980 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43223.

The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) issues requests for proposals (RFP) for the selection and appointment of Deputy Registrars to operate license agencies throughout Ohio. RFP packets are generally released in January of each year. License agencies provide driver licenses, ID cards, vehicle registrations and other services on behalf of the BMV.

Deputy Registrars are independent contractors and are selected on a competitive basis as described in the Ohio Administrative Code and RFP. Deputy Registrars receive service fees of $3.50 for each vehicle, driver license and ID card transaction and $.90 for each vision screening performed.

All fees are established in accordance with the Ohio Revised Code. Contracts are generally three years per Ohio Revised Code 4503.03. Proposer conferences are held regionally in January where RFP details are explained. For more information, please log onto bmv.ohio.gov/rfp.stm.

There is no cost for the proposer conferences. For those unable to join us in in person, the Columbus Deputy Registrar Proposer Conferences will be webcast. The link for the January 9 conference is: media.dot.state.oh.us/DOTMediasite/Viewer/?peid=8aeaf15cbb424f0d9080a1ce0e9ab268 and the link for the January 13 conference is: media.dot.state.oh.us/DOTMediasite/Viewer/?peid=6a0786c5cb754f6ca7ade859d2b31e9a.

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January 5, 2012 – Ohio Wildlife Council Hears 2012-2013 Hunting Regulations Proposals

Columbus, Ohio – The 2012-13 hunting and trapping regulation proposals were presented on January 4 to the Ohio Wildlife Council by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife.

September 1 is the proposed kick-off date for the state's fall hunting season beginning with squirrel and dove hunting. Other proposed hunting and trapping rules will be similar to those now in effect, with only slight changes to fall and spring hunting dates.

Hunters age 17 and under are proposed access to hunt statewide for rabbit, pheasant and all other legal game in season during two designated weekends, October 20-21 and 27-28. Spring youth turkey season is proposed for April 20-21, 2013.

The remainder of the proposals concerning Ohio's white-tailed deer hunting will be heard during a separate Wildlife Council meeting on February 8.

Open houses will be held on Saturday, March 3 in each of the state's five wildlife districts to provide the public an opportunity to view and discuss proposed hunting and trapping regulations with state wildlife officials. Directions to the open houses can be found at wildohio.com or by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE.

A statewide hearing on all of the proposed rules will be held at the Division of Wildlife's District One office on Thursday, March 8 at 9 a.m.. The office is located at 1500 Dublin Road in Columbus.

After considering public input, the Ohio Wildlife Council will vote on the proposed rules and season dates during its April 4 meeting.

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January 3, 2012 – Ohio's Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Celebration Takes Place January 12

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Celebration will be held at noon Thursday, January 12 in the Capitol Theatre of the Vern Riffe Center for Government and the Arts, 77 South High Street, Columbus.

The Ohio Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission will present awards to five individuals and organizations for their efforts to advance nonviolent social change.

Speakers will include G. Michael Payton, executive director of the Ohio Civil Rights Commission, and four youths who took first place in their respective age divisions of the 2011 Statewide MLK Oratorical Contest sponsored by the Ohio MLK Holiday Commission.

The one-hour event is free and open to the public.

The Ohio Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission is housed in the Ohio Department of Administrative Services' Equal Opportunity Division.

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January 3, 2012 – 2011 Medicare Open Enrollment Savings Announced

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Lieutenant Governor and Department of Insurance Director Mary Taylor today announced savings realized by Medicare enrollees during last fall's annual Medicare Open Enrollment period. Specifically, the Ohio Department of Insurance's Ohio Senior Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP) helped consumers save $757,000 during the nearly eight week open enrollment period.

"The savings and outreach provided by the Department this year demonstrate our strong commitment to consumers, "Taylor said. "Consumers also demonstrated they like choices in coverage and that when given answers to their questions regarding those choices, they chose the plan that best meets their unique needs."

Open enrollment, which ran from October 15 to December 7, provided enrollees with an opportunity to examine their plans and determine if changes were needed to their health coverage or prescription drug plans. During the open enrollment period, OSHIIP made more than 16,000 contacts with consumers whether by phone or in person at Medicare Check-up events held across the state.

In fact, OSHIIP held more than 100 events across Ohio leading up to and during Medicare Open Enrollment. At least one event was held in each county giving enrollees and their families an opportunity to meet face-to-face with OSHIIP counselors in order to conduct plan comparisons and review coverage options.

If you or a family member has questions or concerns regarding Medicare, please contact the Ohio Department of Insurance by calling toll free at 1-800-686-1578, or by visiting the Department website at www.insurance.ohio.gov.

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