State of Ohio News

February 2012

February 29, 2012 – Ohio Receives Funding to Leverage Private Lending to Small Businesses

Columbus, Ohio – Today, the Ohio Department of Development announced the Ohio State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), a program that will access funding of more than $55 million to increase private lending and the amount of credit available to Ohio's small businesses.

"Through Ohio's SSBCI, we are helping to fill a major challenge faced by Ohio small businesses that seek capital to expand and create jobs," said Christiane Schmenk, Director of the Ohio Department of Development. "Ohio's small businesses are the backbone of our economy and providing them the tools they need to be successful will create a healthier Ohio economy."

The State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) was created by the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010, which provided $1.5 billion to strengthen state programs that support lending to small businesses. Under the SSBCI, states were offered the opportunity to apply for federal funds for state-run programs that partner with private lenders to increase the amount of credit available to small businesses. The Ohio Department of Development applied for and received an allocation totaling $55,138,373 from the U.S. Department of Treasury.

The Ohio Department of Development's Business Services Division will administer three financing programs utilizing SSBCI funds:

• Collateral Enhancement Program (CEP) — is a new $33.1 million program that provides banks with cash collateral deposits to use as additional collateral for loans made to eligible small businesses. Under the CEP, the Ohio Department of Development will open an interest bearing account with a lender and deposit up to 30 percent of the loan amount where there is a collateral value shortfall as determined by the lender and the Ohio Department of Development (up to 50 percent of the loan amount for minority-owned businesses or businesses located in a Historically Underutilized Business Zone).
• Ohio Capital Access Program (OCAP) — supports small business lending by establishing a "loan guarantee" reserve pool at a lending institution that participates in the OCAP. This program has been expanded (increased to $5 million) and can provide financing to for-profit and nonprofit businesses that may be experiencing some difficulty obtaining business loans using conventional underwriting standards. The state, the lender, and the borrower each pay a small contribution fee into the pool. The reserve pool is available to the participating lender for recovery of any losses on any loan they have enrolled in the OCAP.
• Targeted Investment Program (TIP) — is a new $15 million venture that supports the growth and expansion of targeted small businesses within Ohio's manufacturing, production, and logistics value chains. TIP offers debt instruments tailored to the specific needs of the company at or below market interest rates.

To learn more about the program guidelines and participating lenders, please visit www.ssbci.development.ohio.gov or contact OCAP@development.ohio.gov or (614) 466-5700.

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February 28, 2012 – Ohio's Presidential Primary is One Week from Today

Only three days left for early in-person voting for March 6 Primary

Columbus, Ohio – Secretary of State Jon Husted is reminding all registered voters that there is still time left to participate in the March 6 Presidential Primary now through Election Day.

Absentee Voting by Mail
There's still time to request an absentee ballot. Voters who haven't yet requested an absentee ballot may submit their requests in writing to their county board of elections no later than noon on March 3, 2012. Absentee ballot request forms, which can easily be downloaded and mailed in to county boards of elections, are available on the Secretary of State's voter information website: www.MyOhioVote.com.

Absentee ballots delivered in person to the boards of elections must be received no later than the close of the polls on Election Day. Absentee ballots returned to boards of elections by mail must be postmarked the day before Election Day and received no later than the 10th day after the election (March 16, 2012).

In-Person Absentee Voting
Only three full days left to vote in-person absentee, which runs through 6:00 p.m. on Friday, March 2, 2012. Locations and regular business hours for in-person absentee voting vary from county to county and voters are encouraged to check with their county boards of elections for more specific details.

Election Day Voting
Voters choosing to head to the polls on Election Day need to remember to bring the proper form of ID and know their polling place and precinct. Voters can check their polling place and precinct by visiting www.MyOhioVote.com. The polls will be open statewide from 6:30 am to 7:30 pm on Election Day.

Voting Information & Resources
To request an absentee ballot, find contact information for Ohio's 88 county boards of elections or to obtain more general information about the March 6 Primary Election and how to participate, all Ohioans are encouraged to visit www.MyOhioVote.com.

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February 27, 2012 – Governor Kasich's Statement on Chardon High School Shooting

Columbus, Ohio – Governor John R. Kasich issued the following statement this morning in response to the shooting at Chardon High School:

"Please join me in praying for the students who've been injured in this horrible crime. Praise goes to the Chardon Police and Geauga County Sheriff's office for quickly getting this situation under control. I've pledged Ohio's full support to them, the school and the local community in this difficult time."

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February 24, 2012 – Spring Trout Releases Provide Fishing Opportunities Around the State

Releases start March 8 and continue through mid-May

Columbus, Ohio – Public fishing opportunities will be enhanced this spring when more than 96,000 rainbow trout will be released into 61 Ohio lakes and ponds, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources' (ODNR) Division of Wildlife.

The releasing of the rainbow trout, which are 10 to 13 inches long, will occur between March 8 and mid-May. Anglers are reminded the daily catch limit for inland lakes is five trout. Anglers should also know there will no longer be fall catchable trout releases. Beginning in 2012, all catchable trout releases have been shifted to the spring season.

Some locations will feature special, youth-only angler events on the day of the scheduled releases. Anglers age 16 and older must have an Ohio fishing license to fish the state's public waters. Once the youth-only events have concluded, all other anglers may fish. Contact the nearest district office for specific information.

The 2012-13 fishing license will be available March 1. The license will be valid March 1 through February 28, 2013. An annual resident fishing license costs $19. A one-day fishing license is available and may be purchased for $11 by residents and non-residents. The one-day license may also be redeemed for credit toward purchase of an annual fishing license.

Ohio residents born on or before December 31, 1937, may obtain a free fishing license where licenses are sold. Persons age 66 and older who were born on or after January 1, 1938, and have resided in Ohio for the past six months are eligible to purchase the reduced cost resident senior license for $10.

Additional information about spring trout releases is available by calling toll free at 800-WILDLIFE. Information is also available from Division of Wildlife district offices in Akron, Athens, Columbus, Findlay and Xenia.

View dates and locations of trout releases.

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February 23, 2012 – Ohio's Civic Engagement Initiative Kicks Off with Statewide Event on March 15

State and local agencies partner for new initiative to promote employment, volunteerism and lifelong learning for Ohioans age 50 and older

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Aging is teaming with state and local partners to launch the state's new Civic Engagement Initiative at a statewide event on Thursday, March 15, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Preparing Ohio's New 50+ for 21st Century Jobs will inform attendees about the current jobs situation, resources and the initiatives the department is spearheading at the state level to meet the needs of older workers, learners and volunteers.

"Ohio flourishes when all our citizens are given resources and opportunities to grow, thrive and contribute to their communities," said Bonnie Kantor-Burman, director of the department. "Because so much of this happens at the local level, we are inviting all Ohio communities and stakeholders to the table to help us determine the best ways to ensure that our elders continue to be respected as vital members of society."

The Civic Engagement Initiative expands the focus of lifelong learning and volunteerism as tools for increasing job readiness among adults age 50+. Its goals include:

• Ensuring that Ohio's older workers have skills and credentials that are aligned with employer needs;
• Connecting older adults with diverse skills to volunteer opportunities throughout Ohio to help build their communities and resumes;
• Providing educational opportunities that both enrich the lives of older adults and offer opportunities for career growth; and
• Providing tools to local organizations to assist with their efforts to increase civic engagement.

The kick-off event is a collaboration of the Department of Aging and state-level Civic Engagement Initiative partners: Ohio Board of Regents, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and the Corporation for National and Community Service. Interested individuals can participate at the downtown Columbus location (Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation, 30 West Spring St.) or at one of 11 satellite locations (regional BWC offices) around the state. View more information and register for the kick-off event.

During the kickoff, attendees will hear why Ohio has expanded its approach to civic engagement from leaders around the state, including employers, job seekers, nonprofits and education providers. Participants at the downtown Columbus location will also have the opportunity to see firsthand examples of successful programs at Ohio Solution Booths and talk to the local experts behind them. In addition, the SRO Theatre Company will bring 50+ job issues to life for attendees to stimulate public dialogue.

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February 22, 2012 – Kettering Fairmont Team Captures Top Ohio Award in National FAA-based Design Competition

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Education announced today that a team of students from Kettering Fairmont High School is Ohio's 2012 winner of the annual Real World Design Challenge (RWDC) competition. The Ohio winner will compete nationally in Washington, D.C., April 20-23.

"I extend my sincere congratulations to this talented and creative team from Kettering Fairmont High School," said State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Stan Heffner. "This group provides a great example of how students can put the 21st-century skills they are learning in the classroom to work in a real-life situation."

This year's national event required high school students to follow Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) design criteria for a low-carbon-emission and environmentally friendly light sport aircraft — a problem-solving task that engaged physics with such details as wing and power loading, engine sizing and weight estimation. Kettering Fairmont's winning team chose to create a plan for a glider plane. Coached by Dave Lord, who is a Project Lead The Way instructor at the school, members of the winning team are seniors John Borger and Melanie West and junior Damian Hughes. Industry mentors for the team were professionals from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and Jackson Airport, Xenia. Judges for the Ohio competition were from Columbus State Community College, Stanley Electric and Scientific Expert Analysis.

The first runner-up was a team from Beavercreek High School.

The RWDC has nearly 50 public and private sponsors across the country and support of 35 states, including Ohio and Governor John Kasich.

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February 21, 2012 – Contributions to State's Income Tax Check-off Program Help Protect Ohio's Nature

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio's rare and irreplaceable ecosystems are better protected, thanks to Ohioans making donations to the state's income tax check-off program benefiting natural areas/endangered species or wildlife species/endangered wildlife.

Since it is tax preparation season, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) asks taxpayers to consider a contribution to help protect unique and special areas around the state. The tax check-off program allows people to make a donation quickly and conveniently.

"We appreciate the support of Ohio's residents throughout the year who visit our nature preserves and support conservation," said ODNR Director James Zehringer. "People can choose to make a positive impact to benefit the state nature preserves or Ohio's endangered wildlife through the income tax check-off program and know their donations will be used responsibly."

The tax check-off monies are used to protect the public investment made over the last 40 years to set aside and maintain the very best remaining natural areas in the state. The donations help support critical ecological management activities, including efforts to remove non-native and invasive species that pose a serious and ever-growing threat to sensitive habitats in the fragile state nature preserve system.

Ohioans can donate all or part of their state income tax refund by checking the appropriate boxes on the state tax return form (line 25b — natural areas/endangered species - or 25c - wildlife species/endangered wildlife - of IT 1040 form; line 18b Ohio form IT 1040EZ; or line 13d-2 - natural areas/endangered species - or line 13d-3 - wildlife species/endangered wildlife - of the TeleFile worksheet) for the amount they wish to donate to either of the program.

Taxpayers who are not receiving a refund this year can still contribute by sending a check to: ODNR Division of Natural Areas and Preserves' Natural Areas Fund or ODNR Division of Wildlife's Wildlife Diversity Fund, 2045 Morse Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229.

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February 17, 2012 – Auction to Feature Electric Cars, Boats

Columbus, Ohio – Several boats and canoes as well as two GEM 72-volt electric cars are among the 173 vehicles available for bidding at the State of Ohio surplus auction Saturday, February 25.

The auction will be held at the Ohio Department of Administrative Services, General Services Division headquarters, 4200 Surface Road, Columbus. The gates open at 8 a.m.; the auction begins at 10 a.m.

Other vehicles include 16 four-by-four trucks as well as a 2008 Triumph Bonneville 865cc motorcycle and a 1969 Oldsmobile 442.

To view the vehicles, please visit: www.dasapps.ohio.gov/Surplus/nextauction.asp. Vehicles may be inspected between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. February 21 through 24. Vehicles, excluding motorcycles and the electric cars, may be started between 8 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. Friday, February 24.

All vehicles are sold as-is with no warranties. All vehicles must be paid for in full the day of the auction. Thirty-day temporary tags will be available for purchase on site the day of the auction for $18 cash.

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 last 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 is then 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 Jeff Scanlan at 614.466.2670 or visit the DAS State and Federal Surplus Services website at www.ohio.gov/surplus.

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February 16, 2012 – BMV Closure Notification for System Upgrades

BMV conducts complete system modernization

Columbus, Ohio – Due to a complete BMV system modernization, all Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles Deputy Registrars will be closing early at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, March 2, 2012 and will be closed all day on Saturday, March 3, 2012.

Customers needing to conduct business on March 3, 2012 should do so ahead of time. A list of Deputy Registrar locations and phone numbers can be found online at: http://bmv.ohio.gov/county_lst.stm.

Customers are reminded that they may renew vehicle registrations or purchase license plates online 24 hours a day, seven days a week at www.oplates.com or by calling 1-866-675-2837.

The Ohio BMV apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.

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February 15, 2012 – Ohio Tourism Marketing Shows Positive Return on Investment in 2011

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Development's Office of Tourism today announced that the 2011 "Too Much Fun for Just One Day" advertising campaign resulted in a $14 to $1 return on investment for Ohio — a return of $14 in state and local taxes for every $1 invested in tourism marketing.

The return on investment reflects a continued pattern of success for Ohio tourism campaigns including an ROI of $13 to $1 in 2010 and 2009, and a $12 to $1 return in 2008.

"Having such a positive return on investment for our tourism efforts is truly encouraging as we continue to promote Ohio's strong assets, increasing travel to the state, and creating sustainable jobs for our citizens," said Christiane Schmenk, Director of the Ohio Department of Development. "Tourism is a tremendous revenue source for the State of Ohio, and this success is a reflection of the resurgence we are seeing in consumer confidence from travelers."

"Since 2008, when economic pressures and high gasoline prices pushed travel spending to historic lows nationwide, we have focused our campaign around highlighting close-to-home travel opportunities including unique Ohio experiences and affordable getaways," said State Tourism Director Amir Eylon. "Our investment strategy continues to pay greater dividends each year."

Eylon said the campaign is heavily focused on reaching key out-of-state targets within driving distance of Ohio through a campaign that encourages overnight family getaways across print, broadcast and online channels. The campaign also continues to take advantage of new technologies such as mobile and social media, which helps make reaching targeted consumers more cost effective than ever.

Total taxes received in Ohio as a result of Ohio's tourism marketing campaign were estimated at $26 million for 2011 with approximately $11 million of that total going to local taxes and $15 million to the State of Ohio.

Research conducted by Longwoods International on behalf of the Ohio Office of Tourism also revealed that the Office's 2011 advertising efforts generated approximately $374 million in new visitor spending from an estimated 2.1 million trips.

According to the U.S. Travel Association, travel is among the top 10 industries in 48 states and D.C. in terms of employment, and the tourism sector accounted for approximately 7 percent of U.S. job creation in 2011.

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February 14, 2012 – State of Ohio Launches Public Notice Website

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio state and local government entities required by the Ohio Revised Code to publish public notices multiple times in a newspaper are able to reduce their costs by using the State Public Notice website, found at PublicNotice.Ohio.gov. The public will be able to search for and browse public notices for free, and there is no charge for state and local governments to post notices to the site.

"The site has the potential to pull together bid notices from more than 3,900 local governments and schools, making searches simpler for businesses pursuing government contracts which should increase the number of bidders for projects, further increasing savings for taxpayers," said Randy Cole, president of the state's controlling board, which handles certain adjustments needed to the state budget.

"It's exciting to see this new tool that both presents immediate cost savings for schools and local governments and better services for the public and businesses," Cole said.

The site was created by the Ohio Department of Administrative Services' Office of Information Technology as a result of the most recent state budget bill. 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.

"We are happy to provide a new service that leverages state resources and provides a benefit to all levels of government in Ohio and ultimately, the taxpayers," said Robert Blair, director of the Ohio Department of Administrative Services.

To post public notices, government users will need to create an account with the Ohio Business Gateway at ohiobusinessgateway.ohio.gov.

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February 13, 2012 – Fishing, Hunting and Trapping Licenses Will Be Available March 1

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio's 2012-13 fishing, hunting and trapping licenses and permits will be on sale starting March 1, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

"Ohio's new license sales system performed very well in its inaugural year," said Scott Zody, chief of the Division of Wildlife. "Customer identification (ID) numbers should be used whenever possible to help streamline the license purchasing process. People can find the number at the top of last year's license."

License sales for the 2012-13 license year will be from March 1, 2012 through February 28, 2013. The start date for licenses will no longer be February 15 as it past years.

Licenses purchased online or at retail outlets will be printed on paper that can be folded down to credit card size, but will not be waterproof and must be protected. Licenses and permits will be printed along with additional information relevant to the license or permit purchased.

Each license buyer must have a Social Security Number (SSN) recorded in the system. People who purchased licenses last year can now use their customer ID number and will not have to supply their SSN again.

SSNs are required to purchase a recreational license, regardless of age, for the purpose of child support collection enforcement under Federal Statute 42. As a recreational license provider, the Division of Wildlife is obligated to comply with this law and cannot issue a license or permit without the SSN of the purchaser. The division will see that a proper security system is in place to protect SSNs and any databases that contain them.

The license will be valid March 1 through February 28, 2013. The 2011-12 licenses will expire on February 29. Licenses and permits can be purchased online at wildohio.com and at hundreds of agent outlets throughout the state. A complete list of participating license sales agents can be found at wildohio.com.

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February 10, 2012 – State Highway Patrol Announces 2011 Leadership Awards

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio State Highway Patrol announced the winners of their 2011 Leadership Awards today. Top honors include:

• State Trooper of the Year – Tpr. Jermaine D. Thaxton, Granville Post
• Dispatcher of the Year – Disp. Denise S. Blue, Findlay District, Bowling Green Dispatch Center
• Driver License Examiner of the Year – Scott A. Davis, Hilliard Driver Examination Station
• Blue Max Award (top auto larceny enforcer) – Tpr. Robert N. Webb, Portsmouth Post
• Robert M. Chiaramonte Humanitarian Award – Tpr. Matthew W. Davis, Fremont Post
• Motor Carrier Enforcement Inspector of the Year – Douglas K. Vansickle, Findlay District

Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper of the Year – Tpr. Jermaine D. Thaxton, of the Granville Post, was selected from the 10 District Troopers of the Year. This is the second time he has earned this award. Tpr. Thaxton has led the midnight shift in traffic stops for five consecutive years. In 2011, he removed over 300 impaired drivers from Ohio's roadways. He is an active member of Big Brothers/Big Sisters organization. He mentors a seven year old boy with disabilities three times a month. He has become a significant role model in the child's life. Tpr. Thaxton joined the Patrol in September 2002 as a member of the 140th Academy Class. He earned his commission in February the following year and was assigned to the Toledo Post. Tpr. Thaxton resides in Westerville.

Ohio State Highway Patrol Dispatcher of the Year – Disp. Denise S. Blue, of the Bowling Green Dispatch Center, was selected as Dispatcher of the Year. Disp. Blue joined the Patrol in May 2006. She resides in Findlay.

Ohio State Highway Patrol Driver License Examiner of the Year – Scott A. Davis, of the Hilliard Driver Examination Station was selected from the 10 District Driver License Examiners of the Year. He joined the Patrol in April 2007. DX Davis resides in Galloway.

Blue Max Award (Patrol's top auto larceny enforcer) – Tpr. Robert N. Webb, of the Portsmouth Post, was honored with a Blue Max Award for recovering the most stolen vehicles. In 2011, he recovered 11 stolen vehicles, valued at $33,675, resulting in the apprehension of 11 suspects. Tpr. Webb joined the Patrol in May 2007 as a member of the 148th Academy class. He earned his commission in March 2008 and was assigned to the Chillicothe Post. Tpr. Webb resides in Lucasville.

Robert M. Chiaramonte Humanitarian Award – Tpr. Matthew W. Davis, of the Fremont Post, was honored with the Robert M. Chiaramonte Humanitarian Award, which recognizes officers who are dedicated to humanitarian causes, both on the highway and in their communities. Assistance to motorists, letters of commendation and community involvement are all factors in determining the recipient. In addition to his excellent work for the Fremont Post, Tpr. Davis made it his personal mission to positively impact the lives of disadvantaged people in his community.

In 2011, Tpr. Davis organized a 5K race to raise money and awareness for the local food pantry. An avid runner, he found sponsors, promoted the race and recruited runners to help fight hunger. He is a frequent volunteer at the food pantry and also serves with a local group called the Citizens Circle whose members visit county jails to help violators prepare to return to their communities. He also helped to establish the Royal Rangers Program through his church to provide boys in his community an opportunity to learn about the outdoors and engage in charitable projects. Tpr. Davis joined the Patrol in October 2001 as a member of the 138th Academy Class. He earned his commission in April the following year and was assigned to the Swanton Post. In June 2003, he transferred to his current assignment at the Fremont Post. Tpr. Davis resides in Bettsville with his wife, Michelle. They have two children: Alexis and Kenan.

Motor Carrier Enforcement Inspector of the Year – Motor Carrier Enforcement Inspector Douglas K. Vansickle, of the Findlay District, received the Motor Carrier Enforcement Inspector of the Year award. Vansickle began his career with the Patrol in April 1996 as a Maintenance Repair Worker 2. He was promoted to a Motor Carrier Enforcement Inspector in April 1998. He resides in Martin with his wife, Claudia.

Criminal Patrol Award – Tpr. Kurt D. Beidelschies, of the Findlay Post, was awarded for having the most investigations of felony cases that led to felony arrests. In 2011, he had 67 felony cases and 86 felony arrests. Most of his cases were drug-related, including significant prescription pill seizures. Tpr. Beidelschies joined the Patrol in March 2006 as a member of the 146th Academy Class. He earned his commission in October of that year and was assigned to the Findlay Post. Tpr. Beidelschies resides in Upper Sandusky.

Electronic Technicians Team Award – Presented yearly to the top electronic technician team in the state. This year's winners are from the Cambridge District:

• Electronic Technician 3 Jeffrey A. Burris – Nearly a 12-year veteran, he resides in Cambridge with his wife, Susan. They have three children: Katie, Doug and Kristen.
• Electronic Technician 2 Michael C. Cover – Nearly a 12-year veteran, he resides in Zanesville with his wife, Delma. They have two daughters: Kelly and Josie.
• Electronic Technician 2 James K. Howell – Nearly a 5-year veteran, he resides in Cadiz.

Ohio Trooper Recognition Award – Tpr. Stacey L. Arnold, of the Northwest Regional Criminal Patrol Unit, was selected from 11 regional recipients. The Trooper Recognition Award recognizes excellence among troopers who are assigned to specialty positions. Tpr. Arnold joined the Patrol in February 1994 as a member of the 126th Academy Class. She earned her commission in July of that year and has served at the Findlay Post, Toledo Post and the Criminal Patrol Unit throughout her career. She resides in Holland.

Employee Recognition Award – A 21-year veteran, Essie M. Winfrey, an Administrative Professional 4 in the Office of Strategic Services, received the award presented annually to recognize excellence by a civilian employee. Winfrey resides in Columbus with her husband, Alonzo. They have two sons: Michael and Christopher.

For all award winners, view the full release.

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February 9, 2012 – Attorney General Announces Settlement With Major Loan Servicers; Foreclosure-Related Assistance Coming for Ohioans

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine today announced that Ohio is part of the joint federal-state settlement of $25 billion with five of the nation's largest mortgage servicers over foreclosure abuses, fraud, and unacceptable mortgage practices.

"This settlement will provide much-needed relief to Ohio homeowners and communities and help our state to recover from the destruction left behind from the mortgage financing crisis," said Attorney General DeWine.

Ohio's estimated share of the settlement is $335 million and can be broken down into four major areas for relief:

• Ohio borrowers will receive an estimated total of $102 million in benefits from loan term modifications and other direct relief.
• Ohio borrowers who lost their home to foreclosure from January 1, 2008 through December 11, 2011 and suffered servicing abuse would qualify for part of an estimated total of $44 million in cash payments.
• The value of refinanced loans to Ohio's "underwater" borrowers would be an estimated total of $90 million.
• The Ohio Attorney General's Office will receive an estimated $97 million to help with foreclosure prevention, revitalizing neighborhoods by getting rid of blighted properties, assistance to Ohio families who have experienced or are on the brink of foreclosure and the investigation and prosecution of mortgage rescue scam artists.

The settlement is with the following mortgage servicers: Ally, Bank of America, Citi, JPMorganChase and Wells Fargo. Borrowers should contact these mortgage servicers to obtain more information about specific loan modification programs and whether they qualify under the terms of this agreement.

Ohio was particularly hard hit by the foreclosure crisis, and many communities are struggling with abandoned properties that detract from the value of existing housing. New foreclosure filings in Ohio totaled 85,483 in 2010, with one foreclosure filing in 2010 for every 59 housing units. Many Ohioans are also "underwater" with nearly one in three mortgage holders owing more on their mortgage than their home's value.

Attorney General DeWine today announced categories for using the $97 million that will be allocated to his office when the settlement funds are finally dispersed following a court order.

Moving Ohio Forward
Helping homeowners, families and communities recover from the foreclosure crisis.

ATTORNEY GENERAL GRANT PROGRAM FOR ABANDONED/VACANT PROPERTY DEMOLITION -- $75 MILLION
One of the necessary components of Ohio's economic recovery is ridding our communities of the blight of abandoned homes. These vacant properties are a drag on our recovery, inhibiting the growth of our neighborhoods. They create a toxic breeding ground for crime. And, they depress the value of the remaining homes in that neighborhood.

"I am very pleased today to commit $75 million to the creation of a grant program through my office that will provide communities with much-needed funding to remove the blight and give our neighborhoods a chance to prosper," said Attorney General DeWine.

While an exact total of abandoned homes is not available, conservative estimates place the number of vacant and abandoned properties in Ohio in need of immediate demolition at 100,000.

ATTORNEY GENERAL GRANT PROGRAM FOR OHIO FAMILIES -- $20 MILLION
The Attorney General's Office will make available $20 million for a grant program to provide assistance to families and individuals who are at risk of foreclosure or have already lost their home. The plan is to use these resources to fund creative and innovative proposals from non-profit organizations and local government entities to address the needs of citizens who have suffered because of the foreclosure crisis and to help them get back on their feet, with priority given to projects that target assistance to more vulnerable populations, including children, persons with disabilities, the elderly, veterans, and homeless.

ATTORNEY GENERAL ECONOMIC CRIMES DIVISION -- $2 MILLION
Two million dollars will be set aside to expand the Economic Crimes Division of the Ohio Attorney General's Office. These funds will be used to go after these criminals who perpetrate foreclosure rescue and debt relief scams on Ohioans. In addition, some of this money will be used to provide training on these scams to law enforcement and prosecutors around Ohio. These funds will also be used to increase our consumer education efforts to help Ohioans avoid becoming victims of financial fraud and to safely manage their credit and mortgage debts.

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February 7, 2012 – Governor Kasich Announces Ten-Fold Boost to Ohio's Broadband Network

Ohio's High-Speed Network Will Lead Nation in Unprecedented Statewide Initiative to Advance Cutting Edge Research and Job Creation

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio will soon see a ten-fold boost to its broadband network speeds, which will benefit research and job-creating assets statewide. Governor John R. Kasich made the announcement at his State of the State address in Steubenville today, highlighting the first ever state-led initiative that will leverage astonishing network speeds of 100 Gigabits (Gbps) per second to advance research and job growth across Ohio's medical research, higher education, manufacturing, engineering and technology networking corridors.

"This is a game changer for Ohio. These almost unfathomable speeds are highly sought by leading researchers and job creators in competitive markets around the world," Ohio Board of Regents Chancellor Jim Petro said. "This will solidify Ohio's standing as a technology leader thanks to the vision of our many public and private partners."

Under a recently approved agreement with Cisco and Juniper, Ohio will invest approximately $10 million to harness new innovative technology that will, in essence, "open the faucet" of Ohio's current broadband infrastructure, over 1,800 miles of fiber, from its current 10 Gbps capacity to 100 Gbps. At this speed, every one of Ohio's 1.8 million enrolled K-12 students could download an eBook simultaneously in just over two minutes.

This expansion leverages the fiber optic network operated by OARnet, a member of the Ohio Board of Regents Ohio Technology Consortium. The 100 Gbps network will connect Ohio's major metropolitan areas to northern and southern connection points of Internet2, a nationwide advanced networking consortium led by the research and education community, spanning U.S. and international institutions who are leaders in the worlds of research, academia, industry and government.

For the network, $8.1 million will fund hardware development for Phase 1, which will connect Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Dayton and Toledo by June 2012 and Phase 2 markets of Akron, Athens and Youngstown by October 2012.

Ohio public and private partners also will invest $2.3 million in a state-of-the-art innovation center that will enable and test 100 Gbps technologies and promote the development of compelling broadband, software and advanced technology applications. Located at The Ohio State University, the center will operate in research collaboration with Internet2, NSF-Future Internet Infrastructure (GENI), UC-Berkeley and other national laboratories.

Visit www.oar.net for a fact sheet and more information on Ohio's 100 Giabit Network and Innovation Center.

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February 6, 2012 – Final Numbers are in for Ohio's 2011-12 White-tailed Deer Season

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife announced that 219,698 deer were taken during Ohio's 2011-12 hunting season, compared to 239,379 in the 2010-11 season. The top three counties with the highest number of deer taken this season were: Coshocton, Licking and Tuscarawas.

Hunters showed support for the two new methods of game-reporting that were made available this year. Since deer season began on September 24, 2011, 44 percent of hunters called in their numbers, 36 percent reported their numbers online and 20 percent traveled to a license agent's location to report their game.

Ohio's first modern day deer-gun season opened in 1943 in three counties, and hunters reported 168 deer. In 1956, deer hunting was allowed in all 88 counties, and hunters harvested 3,911 deer during a one-week season.

The white-tailed deer is the most popular game animal in Ohio and is frequently pursued by generations of hunters. Ohio ranks eighth nationally in annual hunting-related sales and 10th in the number of jobs associated with the hunting-related industry. Each year, hunting has an $859 million economic impact in Ohio through the sale of equipment, fuel, food, lodging and more.

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February 3, 2012 – Attorney General Announces AIG $725 Million Settlement Approval

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine today announced U.S. District Court Judge Deborah A. Batts has approved a $725 million securities class action settlement against American International Group, Inc (AIG) and certain individual directors and officers, which clears the way for three Ohio pension funds and countless Ohio shareholders to recover money.

"Ohioans and Ohio retirees' retirement accounts took a hit when AIG was accused of widespread misconduct. I'm glad these hard-working citizens, including Ohio's first responders and teachers, will finally get some financial recovery," said Attorney General DeWine. "This case sends a strong message to corporate wrongdoers."

Today's final settlement approval out of the Southern District of New York resolves allegations of AIG accounting fraud, collusion, and stock price manipulation from October 28, 1999 to April 1, 2005. Three Ohio public fund pensions — Ohio Public Employees Retirement System, State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio, and Ohio Police and Fire Pension Fund (the Ohio Funds) — led the class action lawsuit.

The next step is the claims process. It's unclear how much money each shareholder, including those from the Ohio Funds, will receive until the claims process is completed. It depends on how many shareholders come forward. Any shareholder who purchased AIG stock during the class period (October 28, 1999 to April 1, 2005) could be a class member.

As part of the total case involving AIG, the Ohio Funds and the Ohio Attorney General's Office previously announced a $72 million settlement with General Reinsurance Corporation, a $97.5 million settlement with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and a $115 million settlement with CEO Maurice R. "Hank" Greenberg and other AIG executives (Howard I. Smith, Christian M. Milton and Michael J. Castelli) and related corporate entities (C.V. Starr & Co., Inc. and Starr International Co., Inc.). These related cases have not yet received all of the required court approval.

Together with today's $725 million settlement approval, the total recovery for AIG shareholders is expected to exceed $1 billion, making it one of the largest securities class action settlements in U.S. history.

If there is no appeal to today's ruling, the claims administration process will likely be completed within the next six months and distribution of money can start.

Shareholders -- estimated in the hundreds of thousands -- who purchased AIG stock between October 28, 1999 and April 1, 2005 may be entitled to money from this AIG settlement. Inquiries can be made by calling 888-356-0263, emailing info@AIGSecuritiesLitigationCompanySettlement.com, or going to www.AIGSecuritiesLitigationCompanySettlement.com.

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February 1, 2012 – Long-married Volunteers to be Honored at Joined Hearts in Giving Celebration

First Lady Karen W. Kasich will host 17 exceptional couples from around Ohio at Governor's Residence

Columbus, Ohio – First Lady Karen Waldbillig Kasich and the Ohio Department of Aging will honor 17 couples for their dedication to marriage and volunteerism at the thirteenth annual Joined Hearts in Giving celebration, Tuesday, February 14, at the governor's residence in Columbus. With its connection to Valentine's Day, Joined Hearts in Giving honors Ohioans who have been married 40 years or longer and who share a commitment to volunteerism and community service.

"These couples embody a level of commitment that should be celebrated," said Mrs. Kasich, the event's host. "Both as devoted spouses and volunteers, these 'Joined Hearts in Giving' are role models for us all."

"Volunteers are important to so many worthy social causes all over our state, but volunteerism also allows our elders to be vital members of their communities," said Bonnie Kantor-Burman, director of the department. "'Joined Hearts in Giving' is about what happens when individuals have the opportunities and the intimate, personal support and love to grow, thrive and contribute."

The department solicited nominations for Joined Hearts in Giving during November, 2011. Those to be honored at the 2012 Joined Hearts in Giving reception range between 40 to 70 years married, 61 to 94 years old and from 1 to 65 years of volunteer service.

2012 Joined Hearts in Giving

Clark and June Armstrong of Cambridge, married 70 years, are active in their church and volunteer in community activities, such as the Kiwanis club, the community CROP Walk and the Living Word Amphitheater.

Chuck and Shirley Berry of Zanesville, married 55 years, teach dance classes at the Muskingum County Center for Seniors for more than nine years, and help at other events.

William and Barbara Burke of McDermott, married 40 years, sit with patients, deliver meals and raise funds for the SOMC Hospice Volunteer program.

Henry and Maryann Burwinkel of Cincinnati, married 56 years, volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and are active in social justice and outreach activities through their church.

George and Pauline Coburn of McDermott, married 68 years, volunteer weekly with their church outreach and represent the Veterans Administration at local funerals.

Howard and Terri Daugherty of Hamersville, married almost 42 years, serve in the Bethel Lions Club, the local historical societies, the Disabled American Veterans and the Vietnam Veterans of America.

Paul and Dolores Eicher of West Salem, married 65 years, work with local organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, the school board, the West Salem Equity board, Meals and More, the Wayne County Care Center, farming and veteran's associations and more.

Donald and Kay Johnson of Jefferson, married 49 years, work together at Carington Park, where they support the spiritual needs of residents.

Ellis and Sheila L. Mascareno of Holland, married 44 years, serve together as Citizen Corps and RSVP volunteers, and they support programs of the Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio, Inc.

Jim and Cathie Neuhart of Caldwell, married 48 years, are active volunteers in their church and they support the annual Soakum Festival in Noble County.

Stanford and Sheila Odesky of Toledo, married 48 years, volunteer for a range of causes in their community, including the arts, religious organizations, city and county government, national issues, schools and nonprofit groups.

Andy and Charlene Press of Solon, married 41 years, have volunteered with the Ohio Buckeye Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society since 1991.

Raymond and Florence Rose of Wooster, married 62 years, support many local organizations, including their church and Goodwill Industries, by helping out with fundraisers and educational activities.

Richard and Annette Rush of Grove City, married 50 years have led their church's Meals-on-Wheels program for twenty years.

Raymond and Bernadean Wagner of Heath, married 55 years, served as volunteer missions coordinators for the Ohio Southern Baptist Convention and traveled around Ohio to share their experiences as missionaries.

Del and Karol Wells of Lima, married 40 years, volunteer at Lima Memorial Health System and the LaFayette-Jackson Historical Society. They hosted more than 50 foster children, and a dozen international exchange students, over a 20 year period.

David and Lois Zoll of Fostoria, married 61 years, have been the primary forces behind the "Feed My Kids" summer lunch program, which served almost 3,000 meals to area children and families in 2011.

More detailed biographies of these honorees and their accomplishments are available online at www.aging.ohio.gov/news/joinedheartsingiving/. Photos will be posted after February 14.

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