Media Alert

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEDIA ALERT   For Immediate Release: December 30, 2010   For More Information: John Ivanic, (614) 645-6798 Web – Facebook – Twitter

 

 

Councilmember Andrew J. Ginther to hold a Public Safety Committee Hearing to discuss Reentry Initiatives  

 

WHO:

Councilmember Andrew J. Ginther, Chair, Public Safety Committee

The Franklin County Office of Homeland Security & Justice Programs

The Franklin County Criminal Justice Planning Board Reentry Task Force

 

WHEN:

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

5:30 PM

 

WHERE:

Council Chambers

90 West Broad Street

 

WHAT:

Columbus City Councilmember Andrew J. Ginther, chair of the Public Safety Committee, will conduct a public hearing to discuss reentry initiatives under development as part of the Franklin County Criminal Justice and Community Corrections Planning Boards Comprehensive Strategic Justice Plan. The Franklin County Criminal Justice Planning Board oversees the criminal justice mission of The Franklin County Office of Homeland Security & Justice Programs (OHS&JP) which serves as the Metropolitan County Criminal Justice Services Agency for Franklin County. The OHS&JP is responsible for the administration of federal grant programs throughout Franklin County that provide funding for a diverse range of services including juvenile justice and delinquency prevention; homeland security first response and prevention; law enforcement, victim services and prosecution enhancement; alternatives to incarceration; crime and violence prevention; training, research and criminal justice planning. The public hearing will focus specifically on initiatives developed by The Franklin County Criminal Justice Planning Board Reentry Task Force. Public testimony will be accepted. Those wishing to testify should fill out a speaker slip on the day of the hearing between the hours of 8:00 am - 5:00 pm in the lobby entrance located on the Front Street side of City Hall. Free parking is available in the Gay Street parking lot on the north side of City Hall after 5:00 pm.

 

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Media Alert

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEDIA ALERT   For Immediate Release: December 29, 2010   For More Information: John Ivanic, (614) 645-6798 Web – Facebook – Twitter

 

 

Councilmember Ginther to hold a Public Hearing to discuss the 2011 Operating Budget and Economic Development Initiatives 

 

WHO:

  Councilmember Andrew J. Ginther

Columbus Department of Development

 

WHEN:

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

3:30 PM

 

WHERE:

Council Chambers

90 West Broad Street

 

WHAT:

Columbus City Councilmember Andrew J. Ginther, chair of the Finance & Economic Development Committee, will hold a public hearing to discuss the Mayor’s proposed 2011 operating budget and the City’s investments in economic development and job creation. The meeting will include presentations from the City’s economic development staff within the Columbus Department of Development and the City’s partners in promoting job growth and attracting and retaining employers, including The Columbus Partnership. The Committee also expects to hear from other partners who promote Columbus businesses and who support the City’s efforts to grow the local economy. Public testimony will be accepted. Those wishing to testify should fill out a speaker slip on the day of the hearing between the hours of 8:00 am - 3:30 pm in the lobby entrance located on the Front Street side of City Hall.

 

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Media Alert

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEDIA ALERT   For Immediate Release: December 23, 2010   For More Information: John Ivanic, (614) 645-6798 Web – Facebook – Twitter

 

 

CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCES SLIGHTLY REVISED SCHEDULE TO FILL TWO VACANCIES

Number of Finalists Requires Earlier Start Time for Interview Sessions

 

(Columbus)—Due to the large number of applicants selected for further consideration to fill two vacant seats, City Council will now begin the interview sessions on January 6, 2011 and January 7, 2011 at 8:45 a.m. instead of 10:00 a.m. as previously published in the City Bulletin.  The time adjustment will also allow current Councilmembers to attend the Columbus Division of Fire Recruit Graduation Ceremony on Friday, January 7, 2011 at 1:30 p.m.  The procedures Council will follow for the remainder of the application process are listed below with the revised time adjustments. The procedures are unchanged from those shared with the public prior to the acceptance of applications.

 

Monday, January 3, 2011 – 5:00 p.m.

 

• Reorganization Meeting

Thursday, January 6, 2011 – 8:45 a.m.

 

• A public meeting shall be held in order to enter into executive session for the sole purpose of interviewing applicants.  Official notice for this meeting has been revised and published in the City Bulletin.  (Per 121.22 (G) of the Ohio Revised Code, a “majority of a quorum” of the five remaining Council members must decide “by a roll call vote” to hold an executive session).  Minutes shall be maintained by the City Clerk and no decisions or straw votes shall be permitted during executive session.  Once the interviews are completed, the five remaining Council members shall adjourn out of executive session and enter back into the public meeting, which subsequently will be adjourned as well.  Media and the public are free to attend the public portions of this meeting and may speak with any of the applicants before or after their interviews.

Friday, January 7, 2011 – 8:45 a.m.

 

• In a repeat of the day before, a public meeting shall be held in order to enter into executive session for the sole purpose of interviewing applicants.  Official notice for this meeting has been revised and published in the City Bulletin. (Per 121.22 (G) of the Ohio Revised Code, a “majority of a quorum” of the five remaining Council members must decide “by a roll call vote” to hold an executive session).  Minutes shall be maintained by the City Clerk and no decisions or straw votes shall be permitted during executive session.  Once the interviews are completed, the five remaining Council members shall adjourn out of executive session and enter back into the public meeting, which subsequently will be adjourned as well.  Media and the public are free to attend the public portions of this meeting and may speak with any of the applicants before or after their interviews.

Monday, January 10, 2011 – 4:00 p.m.

 

• Pursuant to division (G)(1) of section 121.22 of the Ohio Revised Code, a public meeting shall be held in order to enter into executive session for the sole purpose of considering the appointment of two new Council members.  Official notice for this meeting has been published in the City Bulletin.  Minutes shall be maintained by the City Clerk and no decisions or straw votes shall be permitted during executive session.

Monday, January 10, 2011 – 5:00 p.m.

 

• The five remaining Council members will adjourn out of executive session and enter back into the public meeting.  The Council members shall then have the opportunity to nominate applicants for each of the two vacancies and vote to appoint new members.  If a majority of the Council members vote to appoint a nominee, he or she shall then be eligible to be sworn in under oath and take office pursuant to Sections 5 and 202-1 of the Columbus City Charter.

 

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Media Alert

 

 

 

 

US Gas Demand Should Fall For Good After '06 Peak

Yet no one questions how Ohio will pay an average of $471 million PER YEAR in extra highway M&O costs over the next decade. Ohio keeps adding more highway infrastructure to maintain while gas tax revenues fall and Ohio fails to respond to this greatest change in transportation needs in decades....

 

US Gas Demand Should Fall For Good After '06 Peak

Cars More Fuel-Efficient, People Driving Less

JONATHAN FAHEY, AP Energy Writer

 

UPDATED: 6:12 am PST December 21, 2010

....The decline is expected to accelerate for several reasons.

 

- Starting with the 2012 model year, cars will have to hit a higher fuel economy target for the first time since 1990. Each carmaker's fleet must average 30.1 mpg, up from 27.5. By the 2016 model year, that number must rise to 35.5 mpg. And, starting next year, SUVs and minivans, once classified as trucks, will count toward passenger vehicle targets.

 

- The auto industry is introducing cars that run partially or entirely on electricity, and the federal government is providing billions of dollars in subsidies to increase production and spur sales.

 

- By 2022, the country's fuel mix must include 36 billion gallons of ethanol and other biofuels, up from 14 billion gallons in 2011. Put another way, biofuels will account for roughly one of every four gallons sold at the pump.

 

- Gasoline prices are forecast to stay high as developing economies in Asia and the Middle East use more oil.

 

There are demographic factors at work, too. Baby boomers will drive less as they age. The surge of women entering the work force and commuting in recent decades has leveled off. And the era of Americans commuting ever farther distances appears to be over. One measure of this, vehicle miles traveled per licensed driver, began to flatten in the middle of the last decade after years of sharp growth.

 

"People wildly underestimate the effect that all this is going to have" on gasoline demand, says Paul Sankey, an analyst at Deutsche Bank. Sankey predicts by 2030 America will use just 5.4 million barrels a day, the same as in 1969. Aaron Brady, an analyst at CERA, predicts a more modest drop, to 6.6 million barrels a day.

 

READ MORE AT:

http://www.fox5vegas.com/automotive/26196705/detail.html

 

 

Ken Prendergast
Executive Director
All Aboard Ohio
12029 Clifton Blvd., Suite 505
Cleveland, OH 44107
(216) 288-4883
kenprendergast@allaboardohio.org
www.allaboardohio.org

Rec Sports Member Update - Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Happy Holidays to you and yours!

 

Member Update

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

1.       Rec Sports Holiday Hours

2.       Snow Day Camp

3.       Upcoming Personal Trainer Course

4.       RPAC Locker Lottery Update

5.       Three-Pound Dumbbells Available for Checkout

6.       Play Intramural Sports for Winter!

7.       Sign-Up for Small Group Personal Training Courses for Winter

8.       School’s Out—But Camp Now & Then Is In!

9.       Registration Available for Winter Programs

To unsubscribe from this mailing list, please send an e-mail to recsportsmembers-unsubscribe@lists.studentaffairs.ohio-state.edu from the e-mail account to which you are subscribed for this listserv.

 

Rec Sports Holiday Hours
Work off those holiday sweets by visiting your favorite Rec Sports facility over the holidays. View our special hours, holiday closings, and family hours by visiting http://go.osu.edu/winterbreak.

Snow Day Camp

Winter is here! And with winter, comes snow—and school closings. Community Programs offers Snow Day Camp for children enrolled in kindergarten through age 12 when Columbus Public Schools close because of the weather and Ohio State remains open. Campers will enjoy sports, crafts, and games from 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. A $10 non-refundable fee reserves your camper.  Cost is $31 for members, per child, per day, and $38 for non-members, per child, per day. Visit http://www.recsports.osu.edu/community-programs/youth-family-programs/snow-day-camp for more information.

 

Upcoming Personal Training Certification Course
The winter World Instructor Training Schools (WITS) course is full. The next certification course to become a personal trainer will begin on Sunday, March 26, at 9 a.m. in the RPAC. Registration will open Friday, February 4. Call John Katsares at (614) 292-5153 or e-mail katsares.1@osu.edu for more details.
 
RPAC Locker Lottery Update

A locker lottery system is currently in place for those wishing to reserve a locker in the men's or women's locker rooms. Current locker holders do not need to participate in the locker lottery unless they wish to upgrade or downgrade their locker size.  Any active member may submit their name during the times listed below by visiting www.recsports.osu.edu. Each member chosen for a locker will have one week to claim and pay for their locker at the RPAC Sport Shop.  After this time, all remaining lockers will be available for rent on a first-come, first-serve basis.  Current locker holders are not impacted by this change.

 

Lottery Opens for Submission

Monday, January 3, 2011, at noon

 

Lottery Closes for Submission

Monday, January 10, 2011, at noon

 

E-mail Notification of Lottery Winners

Monday, January 10, 2011, by 8 p.m.

 

Final Date to Claim Locker

Monday, January 17, 2010, by noon

 

Three-Pound Dumbbells Available for Checkout

In an effort to satisfy requests for three-pound dumbbells, the RPAC has acquired several for checkout at the Fitness Desk.  You can get them with your BuckID or other form of membership identification.

Play Intramural Sports in Winter!
As a paid member of Recreational Sports, you can participate in intramural sports! Registration for basketball and ice hockey takes place on Monday, January 3, from 7 a.m. – 5 p.m., and registration for all other sports (indoor soccer, wallyball, innertube water polo, indoor cricket, wrestling, bench press, chess, arm wrestling, and pickleball) occurs on Tuesday, January 4, from 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Wednesday - Friday, January 5-7, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday -Wednesday’s registration is at the McCorkle Aquatic Pavilion Lobby, with Thursday-Friday’s at the RPAC lobby. Spots are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis. Learn more about Rec Sports intramural sports, including leagues and team fees: http://recsports.osu.edu/competitive-sports/intramurals/intramural-sports-registration.

 

Sign-Up for Small Group Personal Training Courses for Winter

Jumpstart your 2011 fitness goals by registering for women’s resistance training class, and/or the FreeMotion Circuit Class! Both classes meet two times per week beginning January 3 and ending March 10 for 45 and 30 minutes, respectively, for just $50.  That’s 20 workout sessions for only a few dollars per week with our personal training staff! Contact (614) 292-5153 and dial 0 to register before the new year. Visit the Personal Training webpage at http://recsports.osu.edu/health-wellness/personal-training for the times and days that best suit your schedule.

 

School’s Out—But Camp Now & Then Is In!
The next Camp Now & Then takes place on Monday, December 27! Registration is open for parents interested in enrolling their children in this winter break camp. Member fees are $31 per child per day. Activities vary daily, but may include swimming, rock climbing, sports and games, and arts and crafts.  Spots fill up quickly, so register today! Visit http://recsports.osu.edu/community-programs/youth-family-programs/camp-now-then for registration information and available dates.

 

Registration Available for Winter Programs
Member registration is open for all Learn-to-Swim, youth, student, and adult instructional programs, as well as Adapted Recreational programs. Winter session begins January 23, 2011.  Learn more at http://recsports.osu.edu/community-programs.

SPONSOR

Treat the people on your gift list to their favorite Noodles, Salads & Sandwiches from around the world with a Noodles & Company Anything Card this holiday season.  Through December 31, when you purchase a $25 gift card at Noodles & Company, you will receive a FREE sandwich duo for yourself.  The perfect gift for them – and a treat for you!  Noodles & Company, 2124 N. High Street (Lane and High), noodles.com.

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

RPAC Welcome Center – 292-7671

ARC Front Desk – 247-8686

Comments to the 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 – Diane Jensen, jensen.8@osu.edu, 688-3988

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

Community Programs – Marci Hasty, hasty.11@osu.edu, 292-5328

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

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

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

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

Marketing - Emily Howard, howard.778@osu.edu, 688-4185

Membership - 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 – Brendan Greisberger, greisberger.5@osu.edu, 688-3297

RPAC Operations – Dave DeAngelo, deangelo.1@osu.edu, 247-6009

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

Web Site – Katie Thomas, thomas.2407@osu.edu, 292-5287

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

 

 

Virginia and Norfolk Southern sign landmark agreement for passenger rail service

Please note this 79 mph train service is being done in partnership with freight railroad Norfolk Southern, including using the busy Heartland Corridor route (which extends west into Ohio where it will be freight only). 3C will reach northeast cities too via links at Cleveland. Oh, and by the way, Gov. McDonnell is a Republican and so is his director of rail/transit, Elyria, Ohio native Thelma Drake.....

December 20, 2010

Office of the Governor
Contact: Stacey Johnson
Phone: (804) 225-4260
E-mail: Stacey.Johnson@Governor.Virginia.Gov

Department of Rail and Public Transportation
Contact: Courtney Ware
Phone: (804) 225-3746
E-mail: Courtney.Ware@drpt.virginia.gov

Norfolk Southern
Contact: Robin Chapman
Phone: (757) 629-2713
Email: robin.chapman@nscorp.com

Virginia and Norfolk Southern sign landmark agreement for passenger rail service
First train to begin service within three years

RICHMOND- Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that the Commonwealth of Virginia and Norfolk Southern Railway Company have signed a landmark agreement that is an important step toward bringing daily intercity passenger rail service back to Norfolk for the first time since 1977. The round-trip train will link Norfolk with a single-seat ride to Richmond, Washington, D.C., and cities as far north as Boston.

Speaking about the agreement, Governor McDonnell noted, "The new service will bring direct intercity passenger rail service to one of Virginia's largest population centers. The Hampton Roads region is home to over a million Virginians, including thousands of Federal employees and military personnel, who currently have limited transportation choices for travel to Richmond, Washington, D.C., and into the Northeast. This service will provide an alternative to the heavily congested I-64 and I-95 corridors."

The agreement provides for the speedy upgrading of Norfolk Southern tracks between Norfolk and Petersburg so that they are suitable for use by passenger trains. Funded by an $87 million Rail Enhancement Fund grant, the projects include upgraded signaling, track extensions and connections, passenger train turning and servicing facilities, and a track and platform near Norfolk's Harbor Park for the passenger train. Also included is construction of a new connection between Norfolk Southern and CSXT tracks near Petersburg. These improvements will enable passenger trains to run on Norfolk Southern's busy Heartland Corridor route.

"The partnership between the Commonwealth and Norfolk Southern is a perfect example of business and government working creatively, cooperatively, and quickly to meet a challenge," said Norfolk Southern CEO Wick Moorman. "We are proud to be part of a timely and forward-looking response to a pressing public issue."

"Connecting Norfolk to the Amtrak network and the Northeast is a major step forward for the mobility of the region," said Thelma Drake, Director of the Department of Rail and Public Transportation.

Norfolk Southern will work with the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) to complete the work outlined in the agreement. The project is already being designed, and construction will begin in 2011.

The Commonwealth continues to make progress on the necessary agreements for improvements to CSX track and with Amtrak. These agreements must be in place before new intercity passenger rail service can begin.

About the Norfolk-Richmond-Northeast Corridor:
The Virginia-Norfolk Southern partnership is designed to restart rail passenger service in the corridor between Norfolk, Richmond and the Northeast. The trains will be part of Amtrak Virginia regional service, and will operate at speeds up to 79 mph between Norfolk and Petersburg. Additional departures will be introduced as funding allows.

The route between Norfolk and Petersburg is part of Norfolk Southern's Heartland Corridor, the primary rail route serving the Port of Hampton Roads. The Heartland Corridor opened to handle double-stacked container trains in August 2010, providing a more direct route between Norfolk and the Midwest.

About DRPT:
The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) is the state agency for rail, transit and commuter services in Virginia. DRPT's mission is to improve mobility and expand transportation choices in Virginia.

About Norfolk Southern:
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway subsidiary operates approximately 21,000 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal and industrial products.

###

 

Ken Prendergast
Executive Director
All Aboard Ohio
12029 Clifton Blvd., Suite 505
Cleveland, OH 44107
(216) 288-4883
kenprendergast@allaboardohio.org
www.allaboardohio.org

Did public transportation send Cliff Lee to Philly?

We all know someone, especially young people, who have voted for rail, transit, walkable and bikable communities -- with their feet. Here is one such story of a former Cleveland Indian ace pitcher relocating to have more transportation choices......


Did public transportation send Cliff Lee to Philly?
by Reid Cherner on Dec. 20, 2010, under USA Today Sports

If only the state of Texas has spend more money on infrastructure they might still have one of the best lefthanders in the game.

Kristin Lee, wife of Cliff Lee, says she can't wait to use the public transportation in Philadelphia.

Writes Bud Kennedy of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram:

Kristen Lee wanted her husband to return to the Phillies because of "how easy it is to get from point A to point B" in Philadelphia, she (told) the Philadelphia Inquirer.

READ MORE AT:
http://tucsoncitizen.com/usa-today-sports/2010/12/20/did-public-transportation-send-cliff-lee-to-philly/

 

Ken Prendergast
Executive Director
All Aboard Ohio
12029 Clifton Blvd., Suite 505
Cleveland, OH 44107
(216) 288-4883
kenprendergast@allaboardohio.org
www.allaboardohio.org

Media Alert

 

 

 

 

High-speed rail comes to TOLEDO!!!!

High-speed rail comes to TOLEDO!!!!

Royal opening for Madrid - Albacete HSL
Thursday, December 16, 2010 

SPAIN'S Crown Prince Felipe and Princess Letizia officially inaugurated the Euros 3.5 billion ($4.6 billion) 314km (195-mile) Madrid - Cuenca - Albacete high-speed line yesterday. December 18 will also witness the launch of AVE services between Madrid and Valencia with the opening of the new 124km line between Motilla del Palancar, just beyond Cuenca, and Valencia.

From December 19 three return AVE high-speed services per day will connect Albacete with Madrid and Toledo, and the line will also be used by Alvia variable gauge emus operating between Alicante and Madrid. AVE services to both Valencia and Albacete will be operated by Series 112 trains (pictured) supplied by Bombardier and Talgo, which seat 365 passengers with 294 in tourist class and 71 in club.
 
READ MORE AT:
http://www.railjournal.com/newsflash/royal-opening-for-madrid-albacete-hsl.html

 

 

Ken Prendergast
Executive Director
All Aboard Ohio
12029 Clifton Blvd., Suite 505
Cleveland, OH 44107
(216) 288-4883
kenprendergast@allaboardohio.org
www.allaboardohio.org

Not dead yet

Not dead yet
Backers of 3C rail insist the project is only sleeping
BY LYNDSEY TETER
Published: Thursday, December 16, 2010 9:13 AM EST

When Gov.-elect John Kasich referred to high-speed rail advocates as a "train cult," we can only assume he was complimenting them on their passion and fervor—characteristics they continue to uphold today.

Plans for Ohio's 3C Corridor high-speed passenger rail service suffered what looked like a very public execution last week when U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced that most of the $400 million in rail development funds secured by Gov. Ted Strickland's administration would be yanked and redirected to states whose governors actually plan to use the money.

Kasich, who has an affinity for making Biblical references, might be impressed with the resurrection powers of passenger rail advocates, who, it turns out, have a long history of telling folks that what is perceived as dead is really just sleeping.

"I've watched this project die seven times in 26 years," said Ken Prendergast, executive director of All Aboard Ohio—a rail advocacy group. "This is the closest we've gotten, and we get a little closer each time."

 

....Advocates are trying to form something called a "Joint Powers Authority," which they say could legally take over the 3C project with the fed's blessing.

READ MORE AT:
http://www.theotherpaper.com/articles/2010/12/16/front/doc4d0a1e1c0037e733495997.txt

Ken Prendergast
Executive Director
All Aboard Ohio
12029 Clifton Blvd., Suite 505
Cleveland, OH 44107
(216) 288-4883
kenprendergast@allaboardohio.org
www.allaboardohio.org

Meeting Highlights 12-13-10

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS   For Immediate Release: December 13, 2010   For More Information: John Ivanic, (614) 645-6798 Web – Facebook – Twitter

 

GINTHER HELPING PROVIDE FIVE NEW FIRE ENGINES: Columbus Firefighters respond to over 100,000 calls for emergency assistance each year.  In his ongoing effort to ensure the Division of Fire has the updated equipment they need to respond to these calls, Public Safety Committee Chair Andrew J. Ginther is sponsoring ordinance 1801-2010 to authorize the expenditure of $2.4 million from the Department of Public Safety’s Governmental Build America Bonds fund to purchase five new, custom-built engines to replace existing engines that are beyond their useful life and have high maintenance costs.  The Division of Fire has 34 engines assigned to fire stations throughout the city.

 

DESIGNING THE “MILE ON HIGH”:  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 1768-2010 to authorize the expenditure of $50,000 from the General Fund for the Neighborhood Design Center to provide architectural services and related design assistance, planning activities and visioning services and the creation of an on-line platform for first floor retail in the “Mile on High” district in downtown Columbus. The “Mile on High” program was designed to assist existing businesses and attract new ventures by offering tax incentives, loans and matching funds for qualified businesses. The “Mile on High” area is bounded by Spring Street on the north, Front Street on the West, Mound Street on the South and Fourth Street.

 

ENCOURAGING EMPLOYMENT AND BUSINESS GROWTH IN COLUMBUS:  The Diversity Bridge Initiative provides assistance to local businesses owned by women and minorities, from new start-ups to long-standing companies.  Many larger corporations and organizations in the Columbus region have embraced the initiative and are committed to contracting with local women and minority owned business enterprises.  The Columbus Chamber serves as the centralized point of contact to assure successful implementation of the programs and activities of the Diversity Bridge Initiative.  Minority and Small Business Development Committee Chair Hearcel F. Craig is sponsoring ordinance 1770-2010 to enter into an agreement with the Columbus Chamber for administrative costs to continue the Diversity Bridge Initiative.  As the centralized point of contact, the Columbus Chamber will encourage collaboration among the organizations/agencies that serve minority businesses, provide more jobs and help build wealth in our community by creating a more efficient and effective service delivery network.

 

PALEY CONTINUING TO PROTECT VICTIMS:  In 1988, the City Attorney’s Office created the Stalking Unit within the Domestic Violence Unit to support victims and investigate stalking complaints.  Judiciary and Court Administration Committee Chair Eileen Y. Paley is sponsoring two pieces of legislation to help combat this crime.  Ordinance 1669-2010 authorizes the acceptance of a grant from the Franklin County Board of Commissioners, Office of Homeland Security, in the amount of $44,000 for the 2011 Stalking Investigation program.  The ordinance also authorizes the transfer and appropriation of $14,667 in city matching funds required by the acceptance of the grant.  Ordinance 1791-2010 authorizes the City Attorney to accept budget adjustments and grant extensions for the 2010 VAWA Stalking Investigator Grant, the ARRA Stalking Investigative Specialists I & II Grant and the ARRA Witness Assistance Database and Domestic Violence Advocate Grant.  All three grants have been extended until April 30, 2011 and will provide for additional stalking investigative services.  Stalking occurs when a person engages in a pattern of conduct that knowingly causes the victim to believe the offender will cause physical harm or mental distress to them.  Menacing by stalking is a crime under Ohio Revised Code Section 2903.211 and a first degree misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of six months in jail and/or $1,000 fine.  A fifth degree felony may be filed if there is a previous stalking conviction.

 

TAVARES HOLDS BUDGET BRIEFINGS:  Columbus City Councilmember Charleta B. Tavares, chair of the Housing and Health and Human Development Committees, will hold two public briefings on Tuesday, December 14 and Wednesday, December 15, 2010 at 5:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers to discuss funding proposals for the 2011 operating budget.  The meetings will be broadcast live on city government television channel C-TV.

 

IMPROVING CITY TECHNOLOGY SERVICES:  In the ongoing effort to save taxpayer dollars, the city of Columbus continues to enhance its technology services.  Councilmember A. Troy Miller, chair of the Administration Committee, is sponsoring ordinance 1535-2010 to authorize the expenditure of $1,795,160.61 from the Department of Technology, Information Services Operating Fund and Capital Improvement Bond Fund for the purchase of software, equipment and professional services for city technology services.  The new software will increase server storage space while decreasing energy and cooling costs, licensing fees and recovery time due to power outages or natural disasters.  The new equipment will all also track inventory for the Department of Technology.

 

PRESIDENT MENTEL WORKING TO PROTECT HOMELESS FAMILIES AND INDIVIDUALS: With unseasonably cold temperatures in the forecast, Council President Michael C. Mentel is sponsoring emergency legislation to help protect homeless families and individuals from the severe weather.  Ordinance 1818-2010 will authorize the transfer of $300,000 from the city’s General Fund to the Community Shelter Board (CSB) to help support the increase in the demand for emergency shelter during the cold winter months.   In 2010, demand has spiked far beyond comparative numbers from 2009.  Through November of this year, families seeking emergency housing beyond the capacity of existing shelters produced an alarming 3,757% increase in family overflow shelter nights as compared to the entire calendar year in 2009 (2160 shelter nights compared to 56).  Furthermore, single adult overflow in October and November of 2010 has increased 41% as compared to the same time period in 2009 (3344 shelter nights compared to 2366).  As the weather becomes even more severe, both family and single adult overflow is expected to escalate.

 

 

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Ohio's blind sees greater need for 3C trains than Kasich

For Immediate Release
Contact Mary Hiland 614.221.6688
December 13, 2010

Ohio's blind sees greater need for 3C trains than Kasich
Abandonment of Passenger Rail Project Could Harm Blind Ohioans; Governor-Elect Urged to Reconsider

COLUMBUS -- Abandoning the passenger rail project in Ohio could ultimately reduce the chances of the more than 1.8 million Ohioans with disabilities, including approximately 950,000 veterans and 20,000 people with vision impairments, of getting jobs, according to Mary Hiland, Executive Director of the American Council of the Blind of Ohio (ACB-Ohio). 

In a recent letter to the Governor-Elect, Hiland said, "We who are blind or visually impaired understand that at this time, many Ohioans do not see the value of the 3-C rail project.  However, with time it will become apparent to all that this undertaking is essential for the economic health of Ohio."

Speaking for all Ohioans with disabilities, ACBO Executive Director Mary Hiland further stated, "Although the adoption of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990 has
advanced the civil rights of people with disabilities, having access to transportation to jobs is still a huge challenge for people who are blind or visually impaired."  Thousands of Ohioans with disabilities would benefit greatly from passenger rail.  Not only would it create jobs and improve Ohio's economy, but it would also significantly improve mobility for people with disabilities, who desperately need equal access to transportation.

"We are deeply disappointed in the short-sighted decision to throw away this opportunity for Ohio to be a leader in making transportation accessible to all Ohioans, not just those who can drive their cars," Hiland said.  "We're strongly urging Governor-Elect Kasich to reconsider his opposition to this project.  It is a very sad day for Ohioans with disabilities who face the daunting task of achieving personal financial success while grappling with limited transportation options." 

The American Council of the Blind of Ohio is the state's leading organization of people who are blind and visually impaired.  With chapters and members throughout the state, the organization seeks to enhance the quality of life and independence of people who are blind or visually impaired. 

www.acbohio.org

 

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Media Release

COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEDIA RELEASE   For Immediate Release:  December 13, 2010   For More Information: John Ivanic, (614) 645-6798 Web – Facebook – Twitter

 

 

City Council, Anonymous Donor Support Community Shelter Board

 

Council President Mentel’s initiative inspires more giving in community

 

(Columbus)— While Columbus City Council is scheduled to vote on emergency funding for the Community Shelter Board (CSB) later this evening, the generosity of an anonymous donor is matching the city’s efforts to address the unprecedented spike in demand for shelter services this winter.   According to the Columbus Foundation, the donor, who is described as a “self-made, community minded” individual, has pledged to match a $300,000 grant to CSB if City Council approves the legislation this evening.   Council President Michael C. Mentel will be introducing ordinance 1818-2010 and expects unanimous support from his colleagues.

 

 

“The holiday season is a time for giving and this display of beneficence and humility is a prime example showing why Columbus is nationally renowned as such a compassionate community,” said President Mentel.  “This unprecedented gift to the Columbus Foundation, and ultimately the Shelter Board, could mean the difference between life and death for those who find themselves homeless this winter.”

The Columbus Foundation’s anonymous donor has committed $300,000 to support the need for more emergency housing in our community during this time of severe hardship and to honor the 12 years of distinguished community service of Council President Mentel.  Mentel, who announced his retirement from City Council last month, will be presiding over his last meeting this evening 

“New scripts are being written every day about how to respond to the unfamiliar challenges members of our community are facing,” said The Columbus Foundation President and CEO Douglas F. Kridler.  “This one is a story of heroic generosity.”

Unfamiliar challenges is a perfect way to describe the need faced by the Shelter Board and its partner organizations.  According to statistics provided by CSB, through November of this year, families seeking emergency housing beyond the capacity of existing shelters produced an alarming 3,757% increase in family overflow shelter nights as compared to the entire calendar year in 2009 (2160 shelter nights compared to 56).  Furthermore, single adult overflow in October and November of 2010 increased 41% compared to the same time period in 2009 (3344 shelter nights compared to 2366). 

 

“We are just overwhelmed by the community’s response to this unprecedented demand for shelter,” said CSB Executive Director Michelle Heritage Ward. “It’s a wonderful example of the public-private partnership that is the hallmark of how we end homelessness in Columbus and Franklin County.”

 

The Community Shelter Board, established in 1986, is a public-private partnership organization that creates collaborations, innovates solutions, and invests in quality programs in order to end homelessness in Columbus and Franklin County. CSB allocates over $13 million annually to support homeless programs and services. Last year, these programs served more than 8,000 individuals. CSB is funded by the City of Columbus, the Franklin County Board of Commissioners, the United Way of Central Ohio, The Columbus Foundation, Nationwide, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the State of Ohio, and other public and private donors.

 

For more information or to make a donation, visit www.csb.org or www.columbusfoundation.org.

 

 

 

 

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Rec Sports Member Update - Monday, December 13, 2010

Member Update

Monday, December 13, 2010

1.    Winter Break Hours

2.    RPAC Lottery Update

3.    RPAC Maintenance Update

4.    Three-Pound Dumbbells Available Soon for Check Out

5.    Play Intramural Sports for Winter!

6.    Sign-Up for Small Group Personal Training Courses for Winter

7.    Road Construction Update

8.    School’s Out—But Camp Now & Then Is In!

9.    Registration Available for Winter Programs

10. Stay Up-To-Date with Rec Sports

 

To unsubscribe from this mailing list, please send an e-mail to recsportsmembers-unsubscribe@lists.studentaffairs.ohio-state.edu from the e-mail account to which you are subscribed for this listserv.

 

Winter Break Hours
Hours have been posted for Rec Sports’ facilities and for ChildWatch during winter break and the Christmas holiday. Visit recsports.osu.edu and look on the right side under Articles for a comprehensive list.

 

RPAC Locker Lottery

A locker lottery system is currently in place for those wishing to reserve a locker in the men's or women's locker rooms. Current locker holders do not need to participate in the locker lottery unless they wish to upgrade or downgrade their locker size.  Any active member may submit their name during the times listed below by visiting www.recsports.osu.edu Each member chosen for a locker will have one week to claim and pay for their locker at the RPAC Sport Shop.  After this time, all remaining lockers will be available for rent on a first come, first served basis.  Current locker holders are not impacted by this change.

 

Lottery Opens for Submission

Monday, January 3, 2011, at noon

 

Lottery Closes for Submission

Monday, January 10, 2011, at noon

 

E-mail Notification of Lottery Winners

Monday, January 10, 2011 by 8 p.m.

 

Final Date to Claim Locker

Monday, January 17, 2010, by noon

 

 

 

RPAC Maintenance Update

Carpet will be cleaned throughout the RPAC Fitness Center during the week of December 13-17.  During this time, select pieces of equipment will be marked out of order.  We apologize in advance for any inconvenience that this may cause.
 
Three-Pound Dumbbells Available Soon for Check-out

In an effort to satisfy requests for three-pound dumbbells, the RPAC has acquired several for check-out at the Fitness Desk. Beginning Monday, December 13, members will be able to check these out with their BuckID or other form of membership identification.

Play Intramural Sports in Winter!
As a paid member of Recreational Sports, you can participate in intramural sports! Registration for basketball and ice hockey takes place on Monday, January 3 from 7 a.m. – 5 p.m., and registration for all other sports (indoor soccer, wallyball, innertube water polo, indoor cricket, wrestling, bench press, chess, arm wrestling, and pickleball) occurs on Tuesday, January 4 from 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Wednesday - Friday, January 5-7, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday’s registration is at the McCorkle Aquatic Pavilion Lobby, with Thursday-Friday’s at the RPAC lobby. Spots are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis. Learn more about Rec Sports intramural sports, including leagues and team fees: http://recsports.osu.edu/competitive-sports/intramurals/intramural-sports-registration

 

Sign-Up for Small Group Personal Training Courses for Winter

Jumpstart your 2011 fitness goals by registering for women’s resistance training class, and/or the FreeMotion Circuit Class! Both classes meet two times per week for 45 and 30 minutes, respectively, for just $50.  That’s 20 workout sessions for only a few dollars per week with our personal training staff! Contact (614) 292-5153 for course details and times for the small group resistance training classes and to register.

 

Road Construction Update
The John Herrick Road extension to Neil Avenue is open, allowing easy access to the Neil Avenue Garage.  Note that 12^th Avenue is now closed for two years. 

 

School’s Out—But Camp Now & Then Is In!
The next Camp Now & Then takes place on Monday, December 20! Registration is open for parents interested in enrolling their children in this winter break camp. Member fees are $31 per child per day. Activities vary daily, but may include swimming, rock climbing, sports and games, and arts and crafts.  Spots fill up quickly, so register today! Visit http://recsports.osu.edu/community-programs/youth-family-programs/camp-now-then for registration information and available dates.

 

Registration Available for Winter Programs
Member registration is open for all Learn-to-Swim, youth, student, and adult instructional programs, as well as Adapted Recreational programs. Winter session begins January 23, 2011.

Stay Up-To-Date with Rec Sports

Get the latest Rec Sports news by becoming a fan on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ohiostaterecsports) or following us on Twitter (@OSURec)!

 

 

SPONSOR

Treat the people on your gift list to their favorite Noodles, Salads & Sandwiches from around the world with a Noodles & Company Anything Card this holiday season.  Through December 31, when you purchase a $25 gift card at Noodles & Company, you will receive a FREE sandwich duo for yourself.  The perfect gift for them – and a treat for you!  Noodles & Company, 2124 N. High Street (Lane and High), noodles.com.

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

RPAC Welcome Center – 292-7671

ARC Front Desk – 247-8686

Comments to the 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 – Diane Jensen, jensen.8@osu.edu, 688-3988

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

Community Programs – Marci Hasty, hasty.11@osu.edu, 292-5328

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

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

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

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

Marketing - Emily Howard, howard.778@osu.edu, 688-4185

Membership - 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 – Brendan Greisberger, greisberger.5@osu.edu, 688-3297

RPAC Operations – Dave DeAngelo, deangelo.1@osu.edu, 247-6009

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

Web Site – Katie Thomas, thomas.2407@osu.edu, 292-5287

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