A few weeks back, I was pleased to be given the chance to honor another of the 12th District’s exemplary young citizens. Elizabeth Trisler of Russia, Ohio was welcomed onto the Senate floor to receive an honorary resolution in recognition of her outstanding oratory achievements.
Last June, Elizabeth took first place in the National Right to Life Committee oratory competition, earning the top spot over participants from more than two dozen states. Prior to taking part in the national competition, Elizabeth had already placed first in Ohio’s version of the contest.

In addition to being honored on the Senate floor, Elizabeth was welcomed by Representative John Adams (R-Sidney) and recognized before the Ohio House of Representatives.

Miss Trisler and her extraordinary accomplishment serve as another shining example of the stellar young citizens our state has to offer. Ohio is proud of Elizabeth not only for her outstanding oratory skills, but also for her passionate advocacy for the cause in which she believes.

Last week, the State Controlling Board approved a $100,000 roadwork development grant to Mercer County to assist in necessary upgrades to Vine Street in the Village of Coldwater. The grant will be used to support an expansion of Basic Grain Products, Inc. The company currently has 150 employees and plans to create an additional 40 new jobs through the expansion.

Basic Grain is planning a multi-million dollar investment to expand its existing facility in Coldwater. In addition, Mercer County will help to fund the additional costs of the public roadway improvements project, while the Ohio Department of Development has committed to providing additional grants and tax credits to the company.

I am please that through the cooperation of state and local governments, Basic Grain has decided to expand and create jobs right here in Mercer County.

Debate and discussion appears to be picking up once again regarding the 3-C Passenger Rail Plan being proposed to connect Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus and Cleveland. Recently, the federal government offered Ohio a $400 million grant to be used in establishing the new rail corridor. Before we rush to spend these federal funds, several vital questions as to how this project will affect Ohio taxpayers should be answered, but as of yet, have not been by the Strickland Administration.

First, I have grave concern about spending more federal money that must come from borrowing against our children’s future. We should all be concerned about our ever-increasing federal spending and ballooning national debt. It is dangerous and wrong to continue spending in the present, without any concern over how and by whom the tab will be paid in the future. (more)