Member Update - May 27, 2010

Member Update

Thursday, May 27, 2010

 

 

1. Memorial Day Weekend Hours

2. USA Sevens Collegiate Rugby Championship - Tickets Available

3. American Red Cross Blood Drive June 1

 

To unsubscribe from this mailing list, please send an email to

recsportsmembers-unsubscribe@lists.studentaffairs.ohio-state.edu

from the email address account to which you are subscribed for this list serve.

 

1.       Memorial Day Weekend Hours

As a result of the holiday, Rec Sports Facility hours of operation have changed.  Please take note of these changes and continue to enjoy your work outs!  Group Fitness Note:  In observance of the Memorial Day holiday, there will be no Group Fitness classes after 1 p.m. on Friday, May 28 through Monday, May 31. Classes will resume on Tuesday, June 1.

Recreation & Physical Activity Center (RPAC)
Friday, May 28: 5:45 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Saturday, May 29: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday, May 30: Noon - 8 p.m.
Monday, May 31: 5:45 a.m. - Midnight 

RPAC Aquatic Center
Friday, May 28: 5:45 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Saturday, May 29: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday, May 30: Noon - 7 p.m.
Monday, May 31: 5:45 a.m. - 10 p.m. 

Adventure Recreation Center (ARC)
Friday, May 28: 6 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday, May 29: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday, May 30: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Monday, May 31: Noon - Midnight

JORC North and JORC South
Friday, May 28: 6 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday, May 29: Noon - 6 p.m.
Sunday, May 30: Noon - 6 p.m.
Monday, May 31: 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. 

JOW Tennis Center
Friday, May 28 - Monday, May 31: CLOSED 

Outdoor Adventure Center (OAC)
Friday, May 28: Noon - 8 p.m.
Saturday, May 29: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday, May 30: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Monday, May 31: 2 p.m. - Midnight 

2.       Ohio State Club Rugby in National Championship at Crew Stadium!

Watch Ohio State's Club Rugby team June 4-6 as they compete in the USA Sevens Collegiate Rugby Championship at Crew Stadium.  The 16 team tournament features the most intense Division 1 collegiate rivalries in the nation.

NBC Sports will broadcast the event live Saturday and Sunday, June 5 - 6 from 4 - 6 p.m. ET.

2010 Teams | Ohio State, California, Dartmouth, Harvard, Notre Dame, San Diego State, Tennessee, Florida, Indiana, Army, Arizona, Navy, Arizona State, Utah, Penn State, Bowling Green

Tickets include entrance to the events and tailgate festivities including live musical entertainment, interactive games, and food inside Crew Stadium.  

Rec Sports has been granted a limited number of tickets – please email Kris Myers at myers.785@osu.edu if you would like two tickets!

            3.  American Red Cross Blood Drive

The American Red Cross will be conducting a blood drive Tuesday, June 1 from 1  – 7 p.m. in the RPAC lower level amphitheater.  To schedule an appointment: Call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit www.RedCrossBlood.org  (sponsor code: buckeyes)          All donors will have a chance to win up to $1,000 in Lowe’s Home Improvement Gift Cards!

If you last donated on or before April 6, you may be eligible to donate.  Individuals who are at least 17 years old (16 with parental permission in some states), meet height and weight requirements (at least 110 pounds based on height) and are in general good health may be eligible to donate blood. Red Cross donor card or positive ID required. Call or log on for more information.

SPONSORS
Whitewater Rafting Specials  
There’s still time for a road trip to West Virginia’s New River Gorge for some rafting, climbing, biking, hiking, zip lining, ATV riding and more.  River Expeditions is the area’s best outfitter, as well as an exclusive partner of the OSU Rec Sports Department.  Adventure packages feature lodging, meals and attractions – starting as low as $89.  Get a group together and save even more!  Check out their special events at http://www.raftinginfo.com/specials-and-events.php or join the Fan Page at http://www.facebook.com/raftinginfo

*************** IMPORTANT CONTACTS ****************

RPAC Welcome Center – 292-7671

Interim Director – Kurt Carmen, Carmen.7@osu.edu , 688-3587

Adapted Recreational Sports – Lindsay Meyer, meyer.454@osu.edu , 688-3693

Adventure Recreation Center & Jesse Owens Centers - Jimmy Francis, francis.143@osu.edu , 247-5073

Aquatic Center – Christine Thompson, thompson.1363@osu.edu , 247-7370

Community Programs – Marci Guckeyson, guckeyson.4@osu.edu  292-5328

Facility/Meeting Room Scheduling - Andrea Hall, hall.794@osu.edu , 292-6481

Group Fitness Classes & Massage – Scott Holmes, holmes.508@osu.edu , 292-8755

Intramural Sports - Ken Hill, hill.521@osu.edu , 292-5292

Lockers, Welcome Center and Sport Shop Operations - Rob Jech, jech.2@osu.edu , 688-8788

Membership Sales - Kris Myers, myers.785@osu.edu , 688-8461

Ohio State Swim Club – Kyle Goodrich, Goodrich.89@osu.edu , 292-1303

Outdoor Adventure Center - Steve Hawkins, hawkins.264@osu.edu  , 247-8063

Personal Training - John Katsares, katsares.1@osu.edu,  292-5153

Racquetball and Squash Reservations - 292-8590

Recreational Sports Learning – J. Michael Dunn, dunn.99@osu.edu , 292-6513

Recreational Sports Web – Emily Howard, howard.778@osu.edu  , 688-4185

Special Assistant to the Director – Marci Harrington, harrington.69@osu.edu , 688-3983

Sponsorship – Kristin Smith, smith.1424@osu.edu , 688-4619

Sport Clubs – Charles Anderson, anderson.1859@osu.edu , 688-3879

***************************************************************************

 

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCILMEMBER PRISCILLA R. TYSON ANNOUNCES LANDSCAPE ENHANCEMENT AND COMMUNITY PRODUCE GARDENING GRANT AWARD WINNERS

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEDIA ALERT   For Immediate Release: May 24, 2010   For More Information: John Ivanic, (614) 645-6798 Web – Facebook – Twitter

 

CITY COUNCILMEMBER PRISCILLA R. TYSON ANNOUNES LANDSCAPE ENHANCEMENT AND COMMUNITY PRODUCE GARDENING GRANT AWARD WINNERS

 

(COLUMBUS) Columbus City Councilmember Priscilla R. Tyson, chair of the Recreation and Parks Committee announced the winners of the 2010 Landscape Enhancement and Community Produce Gardening Grant Awards today.

 

The Landscape Enhancement grant program is administered through the Recreation and Parks Department. This year, Councilmember Tyson was additionally able to develop a partnership with the Institute for Active Living and administer the very first community produce gardening grants. 

 

“I am an avid gardener and so I understand the amount of dedication and care it takes to landscape or grow fresh produce,” said Councilmember Tyson. “These grant funds will enable 29 area landscape and produce gardening groups to purchase the supplies needed to support existing landscape and community garden sites throughout the city.”

 

A total of $12,000 was awarded to 16 different landscape gardening groups that work to beautify the city’s public parks and neighborhood right of ways.  An additional $5,000 was distributed among 13 community produce gardens that cover every quadrant of the city. 

 

The Landscape Enhancement and Beautification of Public Spaces grants have been awarded to sixteen different parks groups.  The winners of those grants include:

 

1. American Addition Community Garden
2. Eastgate Garden and Civic Association
3. Friends of Moeller Park
4. Friends of Schiller Park
5. Friends of Goodale Park
6. Lincoln Park Community Garden (Barack Rec)
7. Glen Echo Neighbors Civic Association
8. Huntington Gardens in Schiller Park
9. Friends of the Cultural Arts Center
10. Columbus Park of Roses Foundation
11. German Village Garten Club
12. Forest Park Civic Association
13. Columbus Downtown Dog Park Association
14. Driving Park Civic Association
15. Friends of Topiary
16. Friends of Westgate Park

 

Thirteen community produce gardens will receive funding for plant materials and equipment to help sustain the good work theses community gardeners are doing in their neighborhoods and for the food pantries they help support.  The winners are:

 

1. Morrison Hill
2. Stoddart Ave Garden
3. Franklinton Gardens
4. YWCA/Americorp
5. Arawak City Gardens
6. Mt. Vernon AME Garden
7. East meets West
8. Three Sisters Garden
9. North Side Health Advisory
10. Westside Boys and Girls
11. Ganthers Place
12. Run the race Club at Holten Rec Center
13. Community of Holy Rosary

 

 

“Approximately 200 children come to the Holton Recreation Center on a regular basis,” said Rachel Muha, Director of Run the Race Club.  “These children will now have the opportunity to learn how to grow fresh produce from seeds.  They will be able to observe the entire process from start to finish and take fresh food home to their families. It's a great lesson for the children all the way around.” 

 

 

-30-

 

 

 

 

 

{SPAM} Meeting Highlights 5-24-10

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS   For Immediate Release:  May 24, 2010   For More Information: John Ivanic, (614) 645-6798 Web – Facebook – Twitter

 

ASSISTING IN THE APPREHENSION OF CRIMINALS:  The U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance has awarded a 2010 Byrne Assistance (JAG) Grant jointly to the city of Columbus and Franklin County.  Public Safety Committee Chair Andrew J. Ginther is sponsoring ordinance 0766-2010 to accept a memorandum of understanding and interlocal agreement between Columbus and Franklin County for the allocation of grant funds. The agreement is required by the U.S. department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance prior to receiving the JAG funds.  The city of Columbus will receive $250,000 in grant funding which will be used for the annual maintenance of the Columbus Division of Police’s Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).  The AFIS system assists law enforcement agencies worldwide in the apprehension and conviction of thousands of criminals.

IMPROVING COLUMBUS NEIGHBORHOODS:  The Neighborhood Design Center has provided design services, planning activities, and financial alternatives to commercial property owners and tenants in Neighborhood Commercial Revitalization (NCR) districts since 1982. The Design Center has assisted hundreds of businesses, property owners, and community groups develop neighborhood improvement plans, parks, storefront designs, parking facilities, and streetscape improvements.  Councilmember Priscilla R. Tyson, chair of the Development Committee, is sponsoring ordinance 0680-2010, which authorizes the expenditure of $40,000 from the General Government Grant Fund for the Neighborhood Design Center to provide services and assist the Land Redevelopment Office in evaluating properties acquired under the Neighborhood Stabilization Program.  The Design Center will help evaluate properties held in the Columbus Land Bank and make recommendations to stabilize and renovate the structures. 

PROVIDING ELECTRONIC ACCESS TO MUNICIPAL COURT DOCUMENTS:  The Franklin County Municipal Clerk of Court’s Office is responsible for maintaining, safeguarding, and storing all court documents for the Franklin County Municipal Court.  Currently, the storage space in the Clerk’s Office is inadequate to house the volume of documents produced.  An electronic system is desperately needed.  Judiciary & Court Administration Committee Chair Eileen Y. Paley is sponsoring two ordinances that will enable court documents to be converted into electronic images.  Ordinance 0717-2010 authorizes the expenditure of $466,756.47 from the Municipal Court Clerk Improvement Fund for the purchase of imaging, software, maintenance, and services for the conversion of existing court documents into electronic images and the implementation of a day-forward document conversion system.  Ordinance 0734-2010 authorizes the expenditure of $102,776.15 for the purchase of work stations needed to support the imaging software.  The imaging services and conversion system will optimize storage space, reduce future storage costs and provide efficient access to court document information. 

CONTINUING EFFORTS TO END HOMELESSNESS:  The city of Columbus is committed to helping the homeless or those at risk of becoming homeless find stabilized housing.  Housing Committee Chair Charleta B. Tavares is sponsoring ordinance 0716-2010, which will authorize the expenditure of $150,000 from the 2010 Capital Improvements Fund for the acquisition and development of the Commons at Livingston permanent supportive housing project.  The Commons at Livingston is being developed as part of the Rebuilding Lives initiative to provide permanent supportive housing for homeless persons and those at risk of being homeless. The Commons at Livingston is the first project under Columbus' new commitment to provide $6 million in funding over a five year period for the development of additional units under this program.  It is anticipated that $3 million of the $6 million commitment will be provided from bond funds with the remaining funds to come from the city's allocation of HOME Investment Partnership Funds and/or Neighborhood Stabilization Program funds.

ENSURING THE AVAILABILITY OF VITAL RECORDS IN FRANKLIN COUNTY:  Columbus Public Health Vital Statistics Office issues certified copies of certificates for births and deaths occurring from 1908 to the present in Franklin County.  Councilmember A. Troy Miller, chair of the Administration Committee, is sponsoring ordinance 0626-2010 to authorize the expenditure of $67,824.00 from the Department of Technology's Internal Services Fund for the continued services of an automated vital records management system.  The vital statistics record management system enables Columbus Public Health to electronically provide full end-to-end processing of birth and death records.  The electronic system fully supports the future of federally legislated electronic verification of vital events and statewide central issuance. The legislation also authorizes year three of a five year service fee agreement which includes software, license, maintenance, and support services to Columbus Public Health from June 24, 2010 through June 23, 2011.

IMPROVING HAYDEN RUN ROAD:  Public Service Committee Chair Hearcel F. Craig is sponsoring ordinance 0657-2010 to authorize the expenditure of $2,412,825.78 from the Street & Highways Governmental Obligation Bonds Fund, the Northwest Corridor Pay As We Grow Fund and the Build America Bonds Fund for the Hayden Run Road - Leppert Road Improvement project.  The project will add left-turn lanes in all directions to relieve traffic congestion.  The project extends from the intersection approximately 1,100 feet to the north/west and 600 feet to the south/east on Hayden Run Road, and approximately 1000 feet to the south on Leppert Road.  The work will include the construction of curbs, gutters, sidewalks, new storm sewerage, lighting, signalization components, and 10 ADA wheelchair ramps. 

 

-30-

 

 

 

 

 

Media Alert

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEDIA ALERT   For Immediate Release: May 21, 2010   For More Information: John Ivanic, (614) 645-6798 Web – Facebook – Twitter

 

CITY COUNCILMEMBER PRISCILLA R. TYSON ANNOUNES LANDSCAPE ENHANCEMENT AND COMMUNITY PRODUCE GARDENING GRANT AWARD WINNERS

 

WHO:

  Councilmember Priscilla R. Tyson

Representatives of Various Gardening Organizations

 

WHEN:

Monday, May 24, 2010

11:00 AM

 

WHERE:

Holton Recreation Center

303 N. Eureka Avenue

 

WHAT:

Columbus City Councilmember Priscilla R. Tyson, chair of the Recreation and Parks Committee will announce the recipients of the 2010 Landscape Enhancement and Community Gardening Grants that will be used to beautify Columbus parks and neighborhood right of ways.

 

-30-

 

 

 

 

 

Meeting Highlights 5-17-10

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS   For Immediate Release:  May 17, 2010   For More Information: John Ivanic, (614) 645-6798 Web – Facebook – Twitter

 

TAVARES RECOGNIZING oFFICE OF MINORITY HEALTH:  Health and Human Development Committee Chair Charleta B. Tavares is sponsoring resolution 0074X-2010 to recognize the Office of Minority Health of Columbus Public Health for its effort in communicating and addressing health disparities in minority communities. The core functions of the Columbus Office of Minority Health are to work with internal programs and related government agencies to monitor health status; inform, educate, and empower community members.

 

Paley sponsors legislation to protect victims:  As chair of the Judiciary & Court Administration Committee, Eileen Y. Paley continues her commitment to protect victims of domestic violence.  Ordinance 0709-2010, sponsored by Councilmember Paley, will authorize City Attorney Richard C. Pfeiffer to accept grant funds from the Franklin County Board of Commissioners and the Office of Homeland Security and Justice Programs to partially fund the Witness Assistance Program Database Project and Domestic Violence Victim Advocate.  The legislation also authorizes the transfer and appropriation of $7560, as the grant requires 25% matching funds from the city.  The Domestic Violence Victim Advocate works with victims of domestic violence and stalking in their initial court appearances, as well as assisting them with obtaining emergency protection orders in the Franklin County community within the Columbus City Attorney's Prosecution section.  The Witness Assistance Program database will be used to maintain records and statistics on victims and suspects. 

 

HELPING LAW ENFORCEMENT TRACK CRIMINALS:  Since 1996, the Columbus Division of Police has used an intelligence system database to catalog criminal intelligence information.  The database contains criminal intelligence data that is crucial to the Division’s investigative personnel.  As intelligence-led policing becomes the standard model for increasingly resource-limited policing agencies, it is crucial to effectively organize current and future intelligence data, and be able to share it with local and state-wide law enforcement agencies.  Public Safety Committee Chair Andrew J. Ginther is sponsoring ordinance 0604-2010 to authorize the expenditure of $168,808.50 from the Government Grant and Drug Seizure Funds for the purchase of an upgraded Intelligence/Case Management System for Columbus Police.  This Intelligence/Case Management System will be web-based, encrypted, interface with Division NetRMS, CAD, I.D. and Mugshot Imaging Systems.  The system will be remotely accessible by Police personnel and include three years of software upgrades and maintenance.  The database will expand data sharing to allow access to 30 or more outside agencies within the Greater Columbus region.

 

RESURFACING HIGH STREET IN THE UNIVERSITY DISTRICT: Public Service Committee Chair Hearcel F. Craig is sponsoring ordinance 0652-2010 to authorize the expenditure of $690,049.26 from the Street & Highways GO Bonds Fund for the Resurfacing 2010 – Project 3 resurfacing project.  The project involves the reconstruction and resurfacing of High Street from Chittenden Avenue to just south of Lane Avenue.  The work consists of milling the existing pavement, overlaying with new asphalt concrete, and replacing curbs and sidewalks associated with the installation of 42 ADA wheelchair ramps. 

 

ASSISTING OLDER ADULTS IN COLUMBUS:  The city of Columbus is dedicated to helping older adults stay independent.  The Pre-Admission Screening System Providing Options and Resources Today (PASSPORT) program provides home care services as an alternative to nursing home admission for Medicaid-eligible clients.  Recreation & Parks Committee Chair Priscilla R. Tyson is sponsoring three ordinances that will provide home care and assisted living services to seniors in Columbus.  Ordinance #0583-2010 authorizes the expenditure of up to $5 million and ordinance #0638-2010 authorizes the expenditure of $70 million from the Recreation and Parks Grant Fund for the operation of the PASSPORT program administered by the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAAA) for a two year period.  These are Medicaid-funded grants and do not use any city tax revenue.  There are 279 PASSPORT and assisted living agencies that provide services to older adults in Columbus.  Ordinance 0644-2010 authorizes the expenditure of $410,000.00 from the Recreation and Parks Grant Fund for the Alzheimer’s Respite and Senior Volunteer Programs administered by the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging from July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2011.  Each year, COAAA serves approximately 500 clients suffering from Alzheimer’s.

MILLER HELPING IMPROVE CURRICULUM AT ITT TECHNICAL INSTITUTE: The city of Columbus continues to attract and retain young professionals in the business and technology field.  The ITT Technical Institute in Hilliard is part of a leading private college system that focuses on technology-oriented programs of study.  The programs blend traditional academic content and applied learning concepts, with a significant portion devoted to practical study in a lab environment to teach skills and knowledge that can be used to begin careers in our global technology-driven culture. Councilmember A. Troy Miller will tour the ITT Technical Institute, 4717 Hilton Corporate Drive and attend the Program Advisory Committee meeting on Thursday, May 20, 2010 at 11:00 a.m.  The Program Advisory Committee is comprised of representatives of local businesses and employers which help each ITT Technical Institute periodically assess and update curricula, equipment and laboratory design to improve student success.  There are over 105 ITT Technical Institutes in 37 states which predominantly provide career-focused, degree programs to approximately 70,000 students.

PRESIDENT MENTEL WELCOMING HILLTOP KIWANIS TO COUNCIL CHAMBERS:  Council President Michael C. Mentel has invited representatives from the Hilltop Kiwanis to provide a special presentation of their Patriotic Pride project.  The project is a collaborative effort between the Kiwanis, American Legion, and VFW to help Columbus residents display their patriotism while also raising funds to support youth initiatives on the city’s west side.  The motto of Kiwanis is:  “Serving the Children of the World, One Child and One Community at a Time.”

 

-30-

 

 

 

 

 

Meeting Highlights

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS   For Immediate Release:  May 10, 2010   For More Information: John Ivanic, (614) 645-6798 Web – Facebook – Twitter

 

assisting the development of COLUMBUS COMMONS:  In April 2009, City Council approved the construction of Columbus Commons by Capitol South Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation on the site of the former City Center Mall.  Franklin County and the Columbus/Franklin County Metropolitan Park District are providing grant funds needed for construction.  As a condition of this grant funding, Capitol South is required to grant a perpetual conservation easement to Franklin County and Metro Parks, which shall require the area above the underground parking garage to remain open to the public and to be used only for park purposes.  Finance and Economic Development Committee Chair Andrew J. Ginther is sponsoring ordinance 0674-2010 to authorize the city’s consent to the conservation easement agreement.  The park is scheduled to open in December.

RACE FOR THE CURE:  Thousands of people will fill the streets of Columbus to battle breast cancer at the 2010 Komen Race for the Cure on Saturday, May 15, 2008 at 8:30 a.m.  The annual event raises money for breast cancer research.  Approximately 47,000 runners and walkers raised more than $2 million for the cause last year.  Breast cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed forms of cancer in women.  Councilmember Hearcel Craig is sponsoring resolution 0068X-2010 to honor the thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers who give their time and money to help find a cure.   Councilmember Craig has a very special reason for offering the resolution.   His wife, Linda, is a breast cancer survivor who was first diagnosed several years ago.  In 2004, Councilmember Craig was chosen as one of “Stefanie’s Champions,” named after Stephanie Spielman.  The award recognizes individuals who provide a loving and healing presence for cancer survivors.

ELIMINATING BLIGHT IN AREA NEIGHBORHOODS:  In response to the housing mortgage crisis, the city of Columbus was awarded $22,845,495 of Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) grant funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The funds are to be used to acquire foreclosed or abandoned properties for redevelopment, rehabilitation or demolition to stabilize area neighborhoods and eliminate blight.  The Land Redevelopment Office acquired the properties and held the titles in the Land Bank pursuant to the Land Reutilization Program and NSP.  Housing Committee Chair Charleta B. Tavares is sponsoring two ordinances that will transfer the titles of these properties to non-profit developers for NSP redevelopment projects.  Ordinance 0658-2010 authorizes the conveyance of titles for 102 parcels of real property and ordinance 0659-2010 authorizes the conveyance of title for the vacant property located at 1072 E. Long St.  The residential homes and vacant lots will be transferred to seven area housing projects throughout the city for redevelopment.    

ENHANCING CITY PHONE SYSTEMS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY:  In an effort to enhance technology and save taxpayer dollars, the city has installed the telephone services voice over internet protocol (VoIP).  The system provides telephone communications through the use of the internet.  Councilmember A. Troy Miller, chair of the Administration Committee, is sponsoring ordinance 0633-2010, which authorizes the extension of a contract for the option to purchase Cisco Equipment and Related Supplies for the VoIP system until June 30, 2010.  The contract will allow the Department of Technology to continue installing VoIP services at City Hall, Carolyn Avenue, and the Piedmont Avenue facilities. 

HELPING COLUMBUS NEIGHBORHOODS BECOME PEDESTRIAN-FRIENDLY:  Development Committee Chair Priscilla R. Tyson is sponsoring ordinance 0216-2010 to adopt new Urban, Community, and Regional Commercial Overlays as provided for in Chapter 3372 of the Columbus Zoning Code for portions of South High Street, Indianola Avenue, North High Street, Fifth Avenue, Grandview Avenue, Olentangy River Road and other locations in the Fifth by Northwest neighborhood, and clarifies existing building design standards.  The Urban, Community, and Regional Overlays all work in conjunction with existing zoning to improve the character of commercial corridors, facilitate streetscape continuity, and encourage pedestrian-friendly development.  Each of the proposed overlays is the result of neighborhood plan recommendations and community requests. 

PALEY HELPING VOLUNTEERS WORK TO BEAUTIFY CITY HALL:  The landscaping at City Hall is a reflection of the pride Columbus residents have in the building and the city.   Each year the Columbus Apartment Association and volunteers provide the material and labor for the annual City Hall Beautification Project.  The Columbus Apartment Association organizes a team of volunteers to do the planting and decorating, and the end result is a visually appealing floral display that is a tremendous gift to the city.  On Friday, May 14, 2010, Councilmember Eileen Y. Paley, chair of the Public Utilities and Judiciary and Court Administration Committees, will welcome volunteers and assist them in planting flowers and vegetation in the 34 oversized concrete planters on the patios outside City Hall.  The event will begin at 10:30 a.m. on the grounds of City Hall, 90 W. Broad St. 

HUNTINGTON ANNOUNCEMENT: City Council President Michael C. Mentel will join Huntington National Bank President & CEO Steve Steinour and city officials for an exciting announcement regarding downtown economic development.  The major announcement will be made on Tuesday, May 11, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. outside of the Huntington Center located at 41 S. High Street.

-30-

 

 

 

 

 

Parking Meter Briefing

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEDIA ALERT   For Immediate Release: May 7, 2010   For More Information: John Ivanic, (614) 645-6798 Web – Facebook – Twitter

 

 

PARKING METER CHANGES TO BE

DISCUSSED DURING BRIEFING

 

WHO:

 

Councilmember Hearcel F. Craig

Mark Kelsey, Director, Public Service & Transportation

Randall Bowman, Administrator, Division of Mobility Options

Parking Meter Advisory Committee

 

WHEN:

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

5:30 PM

 

WHERE:

City Council Chambers

City Hall

90 West Broad Street

 

WHAT:

Columbus City Councilmember Hearcel F. Craig, Chair of the Public Service & Transportation Committee, will conduct a public briefing to learn details of proposed changes to the Columbus parking meter system, including rates, hours of operation and other characteristics of the program currently being considered by the City Administration.

 

Free parking is available in the Gay Street parking lot on the north side of City Hall after 5:00 pm.  The meeting will be broadcast live on GTC-3.

 

 

-30-

 

 

 

 

 

Cit - E - News Issue 1 Volume 1

Welcome to the City of Columbus Newsletter, Cit-E-News

 

 

Issue 1, Volume 1       May 6, 2010

In This Issue:

	Coleman’s Corner Columbus Seeks Input on New Recycling Proposal New Immunization Requirements for School Entry Pothole Patching Crews Far Exceed Mayor’s Goal Fire Prevention and Safety Tips Neighborhood Pride 2010

 

 

 

 

Visit us online at www.columbus.gov

 

 

We’ve had a beautiful spring so far, making it a great time to be outside. That’s why I’m so excited about our 2010 Capital Improvements Budget.  The $130 million 2010 CIB was approved by City Council April 12 and includes many neighborhood improvements that will make it easier for residents to enjoy the outdoors.  We’re going to invest $20 million in street resurfacing and another $3 million in sidewalks so we can safely bike, walk and drive in our neighborhoods.  Also among our neighborhood investments is $14 million for our recreation and parks facilities. That includes $8 million in renovations to our recreation centers, almost $4 million for renovations to our swimming pools and more than $2 million for park and playground equipment and improvements and for park acquisition.

One of my favorite things about springtime is enjoying the warm weather on my bike, and we are investing more than $7 million in bikeways as we continue our efforts to make this the best cycling city in America. These investments make us a healthier, greener and more economically competitive city, especially when it comes to attracting young professionals. 

Speaking of young professionals, we also need to offer easy internet access, which is why we’re investing $1 million in fiber optics as we continue our emergence as one of the best tech cities in the nation.  We’re also getting green with $1 million for the Green Columbus Fund, a grant program to encourage green, sustainable developments by private businesses and non-profit organizations. This will produce environmental, social and economic benefits for our community.  We’re investing in neighborhood safety with $6 million for fire vehicles and equipment, and in public health by putting $675,000 toward the design of the new Maloney Health Center on the South Side. 

I’m excited about all these investments as we continue to improve our high quality of life by improving our neighborhood safety and infrastructure.  I hope you enjoy a great spring.  (Back to top)

 

 

 

 

Columbus Seeks Input on New Recycling Proposal

Mayor Michael B. Coleman’s State of the City address brought the momentous announcement of a promise to bring a curbside recycling and yard waste collection program to Columbus single family homes at no charge by the year 2012.  The Mayor did not allow any time to be wasted in making good on his word.  Last week, the first phase in developing this comprehensive program began with a series of focus groups made up of residents representing the City’s diverse population. 

With help from the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO), The Ohio State University and members of the Mayor’s Green Team, Mayor Coleman set out to get an honest reaction about the program’s design from the size and style of the recycling container to the frequency of hauler pick-up.  All city residents have been given an opportunity to provide input through a survey released on April 29th as well as during public hearings to be scheduled later this spring.

Currently, approximately 11,000 households within the City of Columbus subscribe to a curbside recycling program through Rumpke available for a fee.  Other residents drop off items to be recycled to large SWACO dumpsters positioned throughout the community at public sites.  The new program will make disposing materials suitable for recycling or yard waste more convenient which the City hopes will lead to a combined diversion rate from the landfill of 35% or more. 

The life of the landfill is not indefinite and as it nears capacity, planning for a new landfill site will need to begin.  Developing a new landfill today would cost $93 million.  Delaying this expense through reducing waste, reusing materials and the City’s new recycling program will benefit our entire community.  (Back to top)

 

 

 

 

New Immunization Requirements for School Entry - Keep your kids learning in school

New state required vaccinations for 2010-2011 school year will affect children entering kindergarten and 7^th grade. These include:

w  tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) or tetanus and diphtheria (Td) booster requirement for 7^th grade.

w  2^nd dose of varicella (chickenpox) vaccine for Kindergarten entry.

w  final dose of polio vaccine on or after child’s 4^th birthday for Kindergarten entry.

Tdap vaccine protects against pertussis (known as whooping cough), a severe respiratory illness that causes violent, rapid coughing that can last for long periods.  Cases of pertussis mostly occur in school settings.

Varicella (known as chickenpox) is a vaccine-preventable disease which causes painful blisters.  A second dose provides children with 99% protection against the disease. Requiring it for school entry can greatly lower the number of school-based outbreaks.

Parents are urged to plan ahead to get these requirement met as soon as possible by visiting their family physician or visiting Columbus Public Health’s Immunization Clinic. For more information on clinic locations and hours, visit www.publichealth.columbus.gov or call 311.

Schools will require proof of these immunizations when children are enrolled.  If not, the child will need to be kept home temporarily until the requirements are met.  (Back to top)

 

 

Columbus Pothole Patching Crews Far Exceed Mayor’s Goal

City of Columbus pothole patching crews repaired 34,555 potholes in March, easily surpassing Mayor Coleman’s goal to fix nearly double the 12,400 potholes filled in March 2009. Pothole crews exceeded the goal on March 17, two weeks ahead of schedule.

Crews took advantage of milder weather for most of March to patch potholes at a fast pace. The mayor devoted additional resources to the pothole repair initiative, including filling two vacant Street Maintenance Investigator positions, which brought the total number of investigators to the full contingent of six. Pothole crews were also very efficient, as only $57,739.33 of the $300,000 identified for personnel costs and pothole repair materials for the March initiative was used.

Pothole patching crews will continue to repair potholes for the rest of the year, but with the onset of spring will clean litter, begin street sweeping and other job responsibilities that change with the seasons. The City is responsible for repairing potholes on 6,348 lane miles of roadway; a lane mile is one mile of roadway multiplied by the number of lanes on the roadway.  (Back to top)

 

 

 

Fire Prevention and Safety

Fire safety affects the lives of thousands of Columbus residents every year. Fire is among the leading causes of accidental deaths in the home each year, yet many deaths or serious injuries due to fire could be avoided with a few simple precautions.

Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors are your early warning system. Since most fire deaths are caused by while people are sleeping, smoke detectors are the most effective pieces of fire fighting equipment you can have in your home. Smoke Detectors should be installed outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms and on each additional story of the family unit. After installation, smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month.

Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are valuable tools for extinguishing small fires, and providing a path for escape. When used correctly, fire extinguishers can keep small fires from becoming large ones.

Flammable Liquids

Never store flammable liquids in the home near water heaters, the furnace or any other device with a spark or flame. Store gasoline and other combustibles in tight metal containers designed for storing flammable liquids.

Electrical Outlets

Throughout the home, make sure all tools and appliances have a testing agency label (UL or FM). Frayed or worn cords and plugs should be replaced. Never plug more appliances into a socket than it is designed to accommodate safely.

Teach and practice fire safety techniques and escape plans so they become second nature, especially with children. The key is to prevent, not put out fires. For more information on fire prevention or to schedule a fire safety program for your group contact the City of Columbus, Division of Fire community relations office at 645-7377.  (Back to top)

 

 

 

 

 

Neighborhood Pride to kick off 11th season

Neighborhood Pride will kick off the 2010 season June 7-11, in the Southside Area Commission neighborhood.  Pride is also expected to tour the Hilltop July 12-16 and will visit the Southwest Area Commission neighborhoods September 6-10.  (A FOURTH NEIGHBORHOOD WILL BE DETERMINED ON 4/14)

The program, created by Mayor Coleman in 2000, has toured more than 60 neighborhoods and has evolved to include bicycle safety for school children and hundreds of Pride Partners have joined in the effort.

Neighborhood Pride is a team effort by City departments, neighborhood groups and individual citizens, businesses and other partners to make our neighborhoods safer and cleaner.  For one week, an intense delivery of City services, including the cleaning of alleys, mowing high grass in the public right-of-way and neighborhood recreational areas, replacing burned out street light bulbs, offering block watch and fire prevention outreach and evaluating exterior housing for code compliance.

Prior to each “Neighborhood Pride Week,” City employees reach out to neighborhood groups in the Neighborhood Pride Area to help craft the specifics of each Neighborhood Pride effort. City staff members make presentations at area commission, civic association, business associations and other groups to introduce Pride to the neighborhood. A strong, ongoing partnership between a neighborhood and the City enhances the effort to deliver services in a more timely, efficient and responsive manner to a neighborhood.

Pride concludes each week with a “Pride night” where Mayor Coleman and Department Cabinet members listen to concerns and answer residents’ questions.  (Back to top)

 

Cit – E - News is produced by the office of Mayor Michael B. Coleman. If you wish to be added or removed from out mailing list, please email dadebelak@columbus.gov with “subscribe Cit – E – News” or “Unsubscribe Cit – E – News” in the subject line. City of Columbus Mayor’s Office | 90 West Broad Street | Columbus, Ohio 43215

 

 

 

 

Meeting Highlights 5-3-10

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS   For Immediate Release:  May 3, 2010   For More Information: John Ivanic, (614) 645-6798 Web – Facebook – Twitter

 

PROMOTING Arson Awareness Week:  Public Safety Committee Chair Andrew J. Ginther is sponsoring resolution 0057X-2010 to recognize Arson Awareness Week in Columbus.  Arson of vacant and abandoned homes and businesses continues to be problematic in central Ohio, resulting in multiple injuries to firefighters and civilians.  In 2006, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimated there were 316,600 intentional fires reported in the United States, causing ten firefighter deaths and 7,825 firefighter and civilian injuries.  Each year, an estimated $1.1 billion in direct property damage is caused by arson.  Councilmember Ginther has invited Columbus Fire Lieutenant David Sawyer to present ways citizens can assist the Division of Fire in fighting arson in Columbus.

 

HELPING SENIOR CITIZENS STAY INDEPENDENT:  The Pre-Admission Screening System Providing Options and Resources Today (PASSPORT) program provides home care services as an alternative to nursing home admission for Medicaid-eligible clients. Ordinance 0606-2010, sponsored by Recreation & Parks Committee Chair Priscilla R. Tyson, will authorize the appropriation of $75 million in grant funds from the Ohio Department of Aging to continue operation of the PASSPORT program.  Services include case management, adult day care, homemaker visits, meals, personal care, respite, transportation, and emergency response. Approximately 4,100 clients are currently being served by the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging under the PASSPORT program.

PROVIDING SAFE, AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOR LOW INCOME FAMILIES:  Each year, the city of Columbus receives funding from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to create affordable housing for low and moderate income families under the HOME Investment Partnerships Act. Housing Committee Chair Charleta B. Tavares is sponsoring ordinance 0623-2010, which will authorize the appropriation of $5,006,538.00 from the 2010 HOME Fund to the Department of Development.  The funds will assist first-time homebuyers, for-profit and non-profit organizations with grants and no or low interest loans for projects designed to increase and preserve the local supply of decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing for low and moderate income families. 

PALEY ATTENDING THE 2010 CENTRAL OHIO CHILDREN’S WATER FESTIVAL: Public Utilities Committee Chair Eileen Y. Paley will join 400 fifth grade students from Columbus, Upper Arlington and Westerville Schools for the 3^rd Annual Central Ohio Children’s Water Festival on Wednesday, May 5, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. The event will be held on the grounds of the City of Columbus Public Utilities Complex, 910 Dublin Road.  The annual event is designed to promote environmental awareness about our valuable water resources to elementary students through interactive displays and hands-on activities.  Activities will focus on four main topics: ground water, surface water, drinking water, and water quality. 

CRAIG ENCOURAGING RESIDENT PARTICIPATION IN RECYCLING AND YARD WASTE SURVEY: Mayor Michael B. Coleman has proposed starting a new recycling and modified yard waste curbside collection program by the year 2012.  Program details have yet to be finalized and residential input is needed.  Public Service Committee Chair Hearcel F. Craig is encouraging all residents to participate in the Recycling and Yard Waste Community Survey online at www.RecycleColumbus.org.  The eight question survey will allow residents to indicate their preference of recycling container size and the frequency of pick-up.  The online survey will be available through July 31^st. In addition, 1,200 randomly selected homes will receive a hard copy of the survey and are asked to respond by June 30^th.  The new program would provide recycling and yard waste curbside collection for all single family homes at no direct charge to area residents.

KEEPING COLUMBUS PUBLIC HEALTH RUNNING EFFICIENTLY:  Councilmember A. Troy Miller, chair of the Administration Committee, is sponsoring ordinance 0513-2010 which authorizes the expenditure of $144,864.00 from the Department of Technology's Internal Services Fund for the annual renewal of billing and information services software provided by Mount Carmel Health Systems for Columbus Public Health.  The system, NextGen, enables Columbus Public Health the ability to operate five major clinical operations, which provides an extensive array of services, such as patient registration, appointment scheduling, monitoring and tracking of patient test results, processing of medical records, and generation of reports to help manage clinic operations. The NextGen software agreement will provide services to Columbus Public Health through April 1, 2011.

-30-