01/02/2013: ALAN MELAMED NAMED IN TOP 5 OHIO DEMOCRATIC INFLUENCERS
Washington, DC –  After more than a hundred interviews with consultants, journalist and political insiders from across the country, Campaigns & Elections Magazine, the nation's leading trade magazine for campaign professionals, named Alan Melamed as one of the top professionals and leading political influencers in the consulting business in Ohio.

According the magazine, "We've named the consultants who are influential in their home states — the folks with pull in the primaries and the state-specific campaigns." They continued, "...the one thing we're certain of is that the names on the following pages are the folks you need to talk to in the state capitals across the country."

The award places Alan in the top 500 influencers nationwide. Alan was selected for the award because of his extensive experience working with Issue campaigns and a "laundry list" of high profile Democrats.

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2012
09/26/2012: WITH OBAMA UP IN NEW POLLS, ROMNEY HEADS TO OHIO
WASHINGTON, DC – "I don't know how Romney wins this without Ohio or Florida, and Florida's not looking that great either," said Allen Melamed, a Democratic strategist based out of Ohio. "It'll be interesting to see if this trend continues."...Melamed also argues that Mr. Obama has benefited from the narrative surrounding the bailout of the auto industry - which ranks second in the nation for motor vehicle production. Romney has defended his opposition to the bailout, and his campaign has even released an ad blaming the bailout for job losses in Ohio, but Melamed pointed to Romney's stance on the issue as evidence that "Once a candidate has to go through explaining what his position means, he's in trouble."..."I think Romney advocating that allowing the auto industry to go bankrupt and the president's bailout have been huge," Melamed said, estimating that about one in eight jobs in Ohio is tied to the automotive industry in some way. "Coupled with that I think is just the kind of flat performance at the convention compared to the Democratic convention. Bill Clinton is still hugely popular in Ohio, and I think his performance really helped motivate and consolidate the Democratic base."(CBS News) -full story- back to top

09/18/2012: ROMNEY'S '47 PERCENT' COMMENTS COMPLICATE SWING-STATE FORTUNES
WASHINGTON, DC – Alan Melamed, Democratic strategist with offices in Cleveland and Columbus: "Gov. Romney was already in some serious trouble. The latest polling shows him down 7 points. His failure to advocate for assisting the auto industry is having a serious impact on him in Ohio. There was a stark contrast in the two party conventions, and President Clinton's efforts have hurt him here. Then you go to these videos. It just reinforces everything that's hurt him up to this point. The comments don't surprise me. If you go back to the primaries, and saw Gov. Romney shift to the right, attempt to appease the Ron Paul and Tea Party elements. His words are coming back to haunt him in the middle of a general election presidential campaign. The people he had a shot at, I don't know how he brings them to his camp at this point." ...(NPR) -full story- back to top

08/07/2012: VOTERS OVERWHELMINGLY APPROVE .5-PERCENT INCREASE IN SHAKER HEIGHTS
CLEVELAND, OH – Alan Melamed, a 50-year Shaker resident whose marketing firm ran the privately-funded campaign in support of the income tax increase, said the community showed “it doesn’t care what the adversity is — we’ve been here for 100 years. And we’re going to be here for another century....This is a community that takes care of itself.” ... (Sun Press) -full story- back to top

03/06/2012: CUYAHOGA COUNTY VOTERS OVERWHELMINGLY PASS HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES TAX ISSUE
CLEVELAND, OH – Voters continued their support of health and human services in Cuyahoga County by renewing a tax issue on the ballot Tuesday. Unofficial results showed voters approving Issue 15 with 68 percent of the vote. ... (Plain Dealer) -full story- back to top

02/15/2012: PLAIN DEALER ENDORSES CUYAHOGA COUNTY ISSUE 15 FOR HUMAN SERVICES: EDITORIAL
CLEVELAND, OH – Cuyahoga County voters on March 6 should continue one of this community's proudest legacies: its willingness, even in tough times, to care for the needy.... (Plain Dealer) -full story- back to top

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2011
11/10/2011: SOLON CELEBRATES NESTLE WIN AS CITY LOOKS TO PLANNING PROCESS
SOLON, OH – City officials praised voters for approving Nestle's bid to rezone land for a new research facility, saying that the move will secure the company's future in Solon and provide stability to the city's industrial base...The rezoning received nearly 85 percent approval from voters citywide. In Ward 5, where majority support was also needed, about 70 percent of voters approved it.... (Solon Patch) -full story- back to top

11/09/2011: WITH SOUTH EUCLID PASSAGE OF ISSUE 96, DEVELOPER MITCHELL SCHNEIDER SAYS "IT'S TIME TO GET TO WORK"
SOUTH EUCLID, OH – Developer Mitchell Schneider said he was “cautiously optimistic” as he waited for election results to roll in on election night with about 120 supporters at the Oakwood Country Club clubhouse. In the end, that optimism turned to elation as South Euclid voters passed Issue 96, allowing the country club to be rezoned for retail use. The vote, which had an unofficial count of 4,272 in favor of rezoning [over 55%], and 3,451 against, clears the way for construction of Oakwood Commons... (Sun News) -full story- back to top

11/08/2011: FIRST TIME IN THE COUNTRY: EAST CLEVELAND RESIDENTS VOTE TO KEEP THE CITY'S TRAFFIC CAMERAS
CLEVELAND, OH – Going into this election, photo enforcement cameras had never survived a vote anywhere in the nation. Sixteen campaigns including five in Ohio, more than any other state had failed to persuade voters to approve the technology to target speeders and red-light runners. More than 54 percent of East Cleveland voters opted to keep the cameras, according to final, unofficial results from the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections... (Plain Dealer) -full story- back to top

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2010
05/06/2010: ON ISSUE 1, OHIO VOTERS SHOW THEY UNDERSTAND THE LINK BETWEEN INNOVATION AND PROSPERITY
CLEVELAND, OH – Give Ohio voters -- Democrats, Republicans and independents alike -- a lot of credit. Despite a still uncertain economy, they came together on Tuesday and overwhelmingly said "yes" to continuing the Third Frontier program of targeted investments in innovative research, products and companies. Support from 62 percent of voters will allow the state to raise another $700 million for a program that otherwise would have ended next year... (Plain Dealer) -full story- back to top

05/05/2010: CUYAHOGA HUMAN-SERVICES TAX EXPECTED TO PASS
CLEVELAND, OH – Despite fear of the contrary, government corruption could not derail Cuyahoga County's health and human services tax. Unofficial results showed voters backing the tax renewal, on the ballot Tuesday as Issue 15, in a big way. With absentees and 1048 of 1068 precincts tabulated, the measure had 66 percent of the vote..."It would have been easy for the voters to say 'no,' " Brian Wright, a consultant to the Issue 15 campaign, said late Tuesday in a telephone interview. "They said 'yes' to caring for each other. They said 'yes' to providing services to those who need them most." (Plain Dealer) -full story- back to top

05/04/2010: OHIO ASKS VOTERS TO HELP SHED RUSTBELT IMAGE WITH $700M PLAN
NEW YORK, NY – An ambitious program aimed at weaning Ohio off its declining manufacturing sector by boosting technology and research will see its future decided by state voters Tuesday. By voting "yes" on Issue 1 on the ballot, voters would approve the sale of $700 million in general obligation bonds to keep the economic development program, called the Third Frontier, funded through 2016. Without the new funds, the program will end in 2012. (Wall Street Journal) -full story- back to top

05/03/2010: ELECTION LITERATURE MIGHT TELL VOTERS MORE THAN YOU THINK
CLEVELAND, OH – Tuesday is the Ohio primary, but you probably already know that because you've looked through your mail...Turns out there just might be some useful clues in the margins -- clues about the character and decision-making skills of a candidate. PDQ interviewed two political consultants, Alan Melamed, president of Beachwood-based Melamed Communications...(Plain Dealer) -full story- back to top

04/25/2010: TIME COMES TO ADDRESS ISSUE OF CLIMATE CHANGE
TOLEDO, OH – ...climate change is an issue many members of both political parties -- yes, both -- are now thankfully coming to grips with. There will be action taken on the national level, even if it's not in 2010 and even if it's not as robust as what Al Gore wants. Industry has grown weary of being held hostage by delays and uncertainty. To level-headed businessmen who stay ahead of the curve instead of reacting to it, it's time to move on. Thirty Ohio businesses in what's known as the Ohio Business Council for a Clean Economy are ready to move on. They see the gradual transition away from an economy so heavily vested in fossil fuels as an opportunity for job growth, Steve Caminati, council spokesman, said... (Toldeo Blade) -full story- back to top

04/07/2010: SOYBEAN SUPPORTERS ROLL OUT NEW PRODUCTS AS STATE LAW REQUIRING THEIR USE TAKES EFFECT
COLUMBUS, OH – Ohio companies that make products from soybeans instead of petroleum are gearing up for more business, now that a new state law is about to take effect, pushing state agencies to buy more of the so-called "green" products. Statehouse correspondent Bill Cohen files this report. The Ohio Soybean Council is offering Ohioans a free box of soy-based household products, if they agree to use them and send back an evaluation of them. The Council suggests that people who are interested call (614) 476-3100. (Ohio Public Radio) -full story- back to top

04/06/2010: OHIO SOYBEAN COUNCIL CHALLENGES CONSUMERS TO TRY BIOPRODUCTS -- LAUNCHES SOYINSIDE BIOPRODUCT CHALLENGE
COLUMBUS, OH – Today, the Ohio Soybean Council (OSC) announced the launch of the SoyInside Bioproduct Challenge, in an effort to raise awareness of the availability and quality of environmentally friendly products made from soybeans and other agricultural sources. One-hundred and fifty homes and businesses have already signed up for the Challenge and received their kits containing an array of bioproducts including degreasers, cleaners, wipes and other home care products. Many of these products replace commonly used items made from petroleum or other chemicals. (Yahoo Finance/Marketwire) -full story- back to top

03/27/2010: MELAMED COMMUNICATIONS WINS FOR BEST TV/RADIO CAMPAIGN IN 2009: Company Receives Two Gold Pollies
PHOENIX, AZ –  The American Association of Political Consultants (AAPC), the premiere association of political and public affairs professionals in the United States, recognized Melamed Communications, one of Ohio's leading political consulting and strategic communications firms, with two gold Pollie Awards today, including one for the best overall TV/radio campaign in a ballot/initiative campaign in the country in 2009.

Melamed Communications also received a second gold Pollie for the best Automated Campaign Call (Robocall) in a ballot/Initiative campaign for the same campaign.

Pollie Awards are considered the "Oscars of Political Consulting" and are the most prestigious awards in the field of the political campaign and public affairs industry.

Melamed Communications was chosen for its series of television/radio spots and an automated call for Ohio’s 2009 statewide Issue 2 campaign to create the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board. The campaign was run on behalf of Ohioans for Livestock Care, a coalition of Ohio farmers and farm groups. The series highlighted the connection between Ohio farmers and consumers and the need to protect safe, local, affordable Ohio grown food. The campaign built the effort around the broad-based bipartisan support of elected officials that culminated in an automated call featuring Governor Ted Strickland (D) and Senator George Voinovich (R). The measure passed in 87 of 88 Ohio counties winning 64% of the vote.

"We had an amazing team. Our messengers were not actors, they were the people who work every day to raise the livestock and grow the food we put on our tables," explained Alan Melamed, President of Melamed Communications. "Our job was to capture their commitment to bringing safe, affordable, local grown food to the rest of us."

For further information visit www.MelamedCommunications.com or www.TheAAPC.org or contact Brian Wright at 216.752.4900.

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Check out one of the Spots...

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2009
12/21/2009: OHIO GRAIN FARMERS NOTE SUCCESSES, PREPARE FOR 'PERFECT STORM' AHEAD
(Farm & Dairy) LIMA, OH – ...strategist Alan Melamed congratulated Ohioans for the November passage of state Issue 2, creating the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board and pre-empting policies by activist organizations such as Humane Society of The United States. Melamed was the lead consultant for Issue 2 and commended Ohioans for passing it by a convincing two-thirds vote.

He said there was criticism whether the issue belonged in the state’s constitution, but said it was as important as the other issues being considered.

"We felt that if the Ohio constitution could be used to create four casinos in the state of Ohio, it certainly ought to be there to be used to protect Ohio’s largest industry. It’s a $93 billion industry; that’s worth protecting in the Ohio Constitution," he said.

The next storm

But Kopperud and Melamed both said the success of 2009 must be carried into 2010, and into other states, because new battles are surely coming.

"The coalition that was formed in Ohio is unheard of," Kopperud said. "You have the perfect storm in Ohio. It’s time to create the perfect storm of farmer outrage across the country."

Melamed predicted a multimillion-dollar campaign by HSUS, and an even bigger need for Ohioans to unite.

Kopperud said the organization’s leader — Wayne Pacelle — was deeply upset by his first major defeat, and also surprised.

"Based on his (Pacelle’s) success, he did not believe that Ohio could (act) as quickly, as effectively and as successfully as it did," Kopperud said...

Excerpt from "Farm & Dairy, Ohio grain farmers note successes, prepare for 'perfect storm' ahead" by Chris Kick, 12/21/09

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11/30/2009: MELAMED GIVES KEYNOTE AT STATE’S ANNUAL SOYBEAN INDUSTRY CONFERENCE
COLUMBUS, OH –  Alan Melamed, president of Melamed Communications and chief strategist for Ohio’s Issue 2 campaign, was keynote speaker at the annual dinner of the Ohio Soybean Council and Ohio Soybean Association Industry Dinner in Columbus, Ohio. Melamed spoke on the overwhelming success of the Issue 2 campaign that resulted in the creation of the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board.

Issue 2 was a proactive effort to create a board of Ohio experts to help establish a comprehensive approach to livestock care based on science and best practices. The effort was initiated in response to The Humane Society of the United States’ California Prop 2 initiative in 2008, which radically altered livestock care practices through a campaign of scare tactics and emotional appeal. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is a national activist group headquartered in Washington D.C. that is not affiliated with local humane societies. HSUS is not part of the agricultural community and its success has been based on emotional appeals and intimidation without consideration for maintaining a safe, affordable, local food supply.

The campaign led by Melamed Communications was the first defeat suffered by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).

During his remarks Melamed emphasized several factors that contributed to the campaigns success, including:

• Unity of the agricultural community behind the effort .
• Strong bipartisan support from leaders across the state including the Governor, the Ohio General Assembly and Ohio’s Congressional delegation.
• The successful mobilization of strong support outside the agricultural community.
• A bipartisan campaign team that worked closely together to drive the effort.

Melamed cautioned that although the 2009 effort was a tremendous success, future success against HSUS’s threatened 2010 ballot initiative would require even greater effort.

"Issue 2 was a win for Ohio farmers and the families who depend on them every day for safe, affordable, locally grown Ohio food. I am proud of the role our team played in the effort to protect them," said Melamed.

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11/05/2009: In Wake Of Issue 2 Passing In Ohio, American Humane Association Expects Improved Welfare For Farm Animals To Move Rapidly
DENVER, CO – With the passage of Issue 2 in Ohio yesterday, the American Humane Association says it fully expects that the Ohioans who will participate in the new Livestock Care Standards Board will significantly and quickly advance and improve farm animal welfare in that state -American Humane Association (Reuters) -full story- back to top

11/04/2009: Issue 2 Passes: Enabling legislation for Livestock Standards Board is next step.
COLUMBUS, OH – By a 64% majority vote Ohioans approved Issue 2 to amend the state constitution and create a state livestock care standards board..."With the passage of Issue 2, Ohioans have proven their support of keeping the state's number one industry—food and agriculture—vibrant and strong," Boggs said. "The Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board will serve Ohio's citizens in a way that will be transparent and open. Ohioans who desire to have their voices heard will have an opportunity to do so during this public process." -Ohio Farmer -full story- back to top

10/11/2009: Yes on 2 : A pre-emptive and persuasive strike for today's food economy
Akron, OH – For all the understandable focus on manufacturing, Ohio remains a farm state in many ways..the organization has been noodling a statewide campaign to establish new and more restrictive rules for the handling of livestock and poultry. Farmers fear substantially higher costs to operate, and higher food prices in grocery stores. They point to the turmoil encountered by their colleagues in California, where such a measure won voter approval. Thus, Ohio farmers struck pre-emptively. -Akron Beacon Journal -full story- back to top

08/12/2009: ISSUE 2: OHIO EXPERTS PROTECTING OUR LOCAL FOOD SUPPLY, FARMERS & OHIO FAMILIES
COLUMBUS, OH –  The Ohio Ballot Board certified the ballot language today for Issue 2, an innovative resolution that if enacted by voters this fall will create a board of Ohio experts to ensure that Ohio families have safe, affordable locally grown food. The bi-partisan measure brings Ohio experts in animal care, consumers and farmers together to establish animal care and food production safety standards for all Ohioans.

According to Alan Melamed, chief strategist for the Issue 2 campaign, "Agriculture is the cornerstone of our state's economy. Yes! for Issue 2 is our chance to lead the way – protecting our food and family farms, while ensuring the care and well-being of livestock…something we can all stand behind."

Issue 2 – which is not a tax increase – has received wide support from Ohio leaders on both sides of the aisle, including Governor Strickland, Senate President Harris and House Speaker Budish. In addition, Issue 2 has garnered broad support throughout Ohio's farm and agricultural communities, including that of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation, Ohio Soybean Association, Ohio Pork Producers Council, Ohio Poultry Association, Ohio Dairy Producers Association, Ohio Cattlemen's Association and the Ohio Corn Growers Association.

For more information or to get involved in the campaign visit: www.OhioLivestockCare.com

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07/23/2009: MELAMED COMMUNICATIONS PROVIDES PR SUPPORT FOR OBAMA VISIT
SHAKER HEIGHTS, OH –  When the City of Shaker Heights was asked to host President Obama's visit to their high school they turned to Melamed Communications to help with media logistics and public relations. -full story-

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06/14/2009: MELAMED CHOSEN FOR INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED KONRAD ADENAUER STIFUNG EXCHANGE PROGRAM
HAMBURG, GERMANY –  One of 11 participants from across the United States chosen by the American Jewish Committee to participate in its international exchange program with the Konrad-Adenauer-Stifung Foundation, Melamed Communications President, Alan Melamed, was given a unique opportunity to travel throughout Germany exchanging ideas and building relationships with many of the country's most respected politicians, journalists, military leaders, scientists and business leaders.

According to Melamed, "I am honored to have been chosen to participate in this wonderful opportunity. This program provided an immersion course in German government, security, economic and internal/external German political issues."

As one of Germany's leading think tanks, The Konrad Adenauer Foundation (Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung) is highly respected for their international programs and social science and policy research. Alan Melamed's experience in political and public policy arenas combined with his work on National Board of Governors of the American Jewish Committee made him an ideal candidate for the program.

More information on the program is available by visiting the American Jewish Committee's website, www.ajc.org, or the Adenauer Foundation's website at www.kas.de.

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05/07/2009: TWINSBURG REZONING ISSUE PASSES WITH 86% SUPPORT -- Elections: Rezoned land will allow for drug store, jobs.
TWINSBURG, OH –  The passage of Issue 1 May 5 will make space for a new pharmacy and about 20 jobs off Darrow and Old Mill roads.According to final but unofficial results of the Summit County Board of Elections, Issue 1 was approved city-wide by Twinsburg voters, 896 (85.66 percent) to 150 (14.34 percent). The passage of the zoning amendment means 1.99 acres of land on the northeast corner of Darrow and Old Mill roads will be rezoned from Industrial-2 to Commercial-2 zoning. -Twinsburg Bulletin -full story- back to top

03/25/2009: ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS WILL CREATE THOUSANDS OF NEW JOBS WHILE SAVING OHIO BILLIONS
COLUMBUS, OH –  Ohio could save over $19 billion by using energy efficiency strategies that are available right now, says a study released today by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), an independent, Washington, D.C. nonprofit research group. Ohio could also create more than 32,000 net new jobs by 2025, including well-paying trade and professional jobs needed to design, install, and operate energy efficiency measures. In total, the direct and indirect jobs created would be equivalent to nearly 250 new manufacturing plants relocating to Ohio, but without the demand for infrastructure and other energy needs, the study says. Investments in energy efficiency policies and programs have the added benefit of creating new, high-quality "green-collar" jobs in Ohio and increasing both wages and Gross State Product (GSP).

The study, "Shaping Ohio's Energy Future: Energy Efficiency Works", was conducted by ACEEE researchers with support from a team of national experts in energy use. The 166-page report outlines policies to reduce electricity demand through improved energy efficiency, combined heat and power, and demand-response recommendations that reduce peak demand. The energy efficiency policies would reduce peak demand by 18% by 2025, while the demand response savings policies would reduce conventionally generated electricity by an additional 11%, for a total reduction of 29%.

ACEEE suggests a suite of ten innovative programs and policies in addition to approaches that are already beginning to be implemented by the state's utilities. Together these policies and programs will allow Ohio's investor-owner utilities to meet the State's Energy Efficiency Resource Standard (EERS) savings targets (as required by SB 221), which require at least 22% of electricity consumption savings by 2025.

"Energy efficiency is the most affordable energy resource in Ohio," said Dr. R. Neal Elliott, Associate Director at ACEEE and lead author of the report. "While 22% efficiency savings may seem challenging, other states are already reducing electricity growth at higher rates than that, at a cost of less than 4 cents per kilowatt-hour. Energy efficiency resources are available in this cost range in every state, including Ohio." He cited using strategies such as installing energy-efficient windows, using compact fluorescent light bulbs, purchasing ENERGY STAR® appliances, and expanding installation of combined heat and power at factories and institutions across the state that could almost offset the future growth in electric demand.

According to Max Neubauer, ACEEE's lead researcher for the report, "Energy efficiency is the first fuel in the race for affordable and clean energy, because it is the cheapest and fastest to deploy." He continued, "When combined with demand response programs, efficiency offers Ohio a sustainable energy future that provides greater energy security, costs less, pollutes less, and supports economic growth better than its current course."

The study recommends ten key policies as building blocks for this new energy future:

A. Energy Efficiency Resource Standard

1. Advance residential buildings initiatives by expanding current Ohio programs like Ohio's Electric Partnership Program and Home Weatherization Assistance Program, and provide incentives to improve efficiency for homes that are unable to participate in current programs.
2. Advance commercial buildings initiatives by going beyond simple equipment upgrades to identify opportunities in system design, equipment interaction, and building operations.
3. Establish Manufacturing Centers of Excellence by partnering with universities to overcome three key barriers: the need for assessments to identify energy efficiency opportunities, access to expertise, and expansion of trained workforce.
4. Establish rural and agricultural initiatives such as developing educational programs on energy efficiency, offering a rural audit program, and creating a pool of matching funds for USDA grants.
5. Expand Combined Heat and Power (CHP) through continued regulatory reform, and by finding solutions that make CHP more attractive to customers.

B. Complementary Policies

6. Continue the ongoing workforce development efforts by developing an inter-agency stakeholder group to coordinate workforce development activities.
7. Employ energy efficiency measures in Ohio's state and local government facilities, which make up 31% of Ohio's commercial electricity consumption.
8. Develop state-level appliance and equipment efficiency standards that expand upon the federal appliance standards.
9. Implement building energy codes that align with federal recommendations and help to build higher quality energy-efficient homes.
10. Expand utility Demand Response Programs to help shift energy use from peak periods to off-peak periods through customer education, financial incentives, and increased coordination with federal and Ohio agencies.

The report includes a summary of past experience with energy efficiency programs in Ohio's electricity sector, a discussion of the key issues that must be addressed in shaping a new set of electricity policies on energy efficiency, and detailed recommendations. The report is based on ACEEE's nearly 30 years of experience working with many other states across the U.S. on similar issues, and reflects the organization's experience with evaluating program "best practices" from around the country.

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CONTACT:
Alan Melamed, President
Melamed Communications, LLC
216.752.4900

About the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy: The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing energy efficiency as a means of promoting economic prosperity, energy security, and environmental protection. For information about ACEEE and its programs, publications, and conferences, contact ACEEE, 529 14th Street N.W., Suite 600, Washington, D.C. 20045 or visit www.aceee.org.

The Executive Summary is available by clicking here

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2008
12/18/2008: OHIO’S LARGEST COUNTY AIMS TO FIGHT FORECLOSURES
Columbus, OH –  Ohio's largest county is about to embark on an experiment in which government becomes the owner of foreclosed and abandoned properties, fixes them up and turns them back over to private owners. The Ohio House on Wednesday voted 88-6 to enable Cuyahoga County, home to foreclosure-ravaged Cleveland, to create a locally financed land bank to improve a glut of decaying neighborhoods...Cuyahoga County Treasurer Jim Rokakis has been aggressively promoting the land bank idea, successfully lobbying state lawmakers to approve the program. -AP -full story- back to top

11/20/2008: MELAMED HELPS PUT OHIO HOUSE IN DEM'S HANDS - Budish Chief Strategist Brings House Democrats to 53-46 Democratic Majority
Columbus, OH –  Veteran Ohio Democratic political consultant Alan Melamed, president of Melamed Communications, played a lead role developing and implementing strategies that led to the Democratic takeover of the Ohio House of Representatives this election. It has been 14 years since Democrats have held a majority and it is the first time in Ohio history that the party not drawing the legislative district boundaries successfully won either legislative chamber.

Serving as Chief Strategist to Ohio State Representative Armond Budish (D-8) since 2006, Alan Melamed worked with the Ohio House Democratic Caucus and the Ohio Democratic Party to develop and help execute campaigns for more than 17 house races.

According to Melamed, “I’ve worked in Ohio politics for over 30 years and this is without doubt the most exciting election I have participated in. Ohioans are facing very challenging times. The Democratic majority, working in concert with Governor Strickland and Lt. Governor Fisher, will play a critical role finding and implementing lasting common sense solutions that will truly turn our state around.” He continued, “I am grateful and proud to be a part of it.”

As the new Democratic leader, Representative Budish will serve as the Speaker of the House and Representative Matt Szollosi (D-49) will serve as Speaker Pro-Tem at the commencement of the new legislative session beginning on January 5, 2009.

Melamed Communications, with offices in Cleveland and Columbus, has provided winning strategic public relations and political counsel to elected leaders, government agencies, not-for profit organizations and businesses since 1999. A full service political consulting and public relations firm, Melamed Communications specializes in candidate and issue campaigns, public relations, crisis communications, advocacy, media production and placement, and community engagement.

For more information on Melamed Communications visit www.MelamedCommunications.com

CONTACT:
Brian Wright, Vice President
Melamed Communications, LLC
216.752.4900

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11/19/2008: NEW HOUSE SPEAKER HAS COME A LONG WAY
COLUMBUS, OH –  Alan Melamed remembers what kind of reaction he got more than a year ago when he first started talking about Rep. Armond Budish's aspirations...."I would say to people: 'This Armond Budish, you really have to take him seriously, he expects to be leader.' People would try to keep from laughing." Nobody is laughing now. -Columbus Dispatch -full story- back to top

11/12/2008: DEMOCRATS PREPARE TO TAKE OHIO HOUSE REINS
COLUMBUS, OH –  No more shouting from the sidelines. No more pie-in-the-sky amendments with little chance of passage or protests about a lack of participation in the process. In eight weeks, Ohio House Democrats are going from 14-year backbenchers to running the show... -Columbus Dispatch -full story- back to top

11/09/2008: BEACHWOOD REP. ARMOND BUDISH SAYS HE WOULD FOCUS ON ECONOMY AS OHIO HOUSE SPEAKER
COLUMBUS, OH –  Everybody wanted a piece of Armond Budish on Thursday. The Beachwood Democrat won't grab the reins of the Ohio House until January, but as he strolled around a post-election conference in Columbus, it was clear the 55-year-old lawyer suddenly had acquired serious juice. -The Plain Dealer -full story- back to top

11/08/2008: OHIO VOTERS BACK OBAMA, FIVE OF SIX STATE ISSUES
COLUMBUS, OH –  Ohioans said yes to a Democratic president, Democratic attorney general and Democratic majority in one chamber of state government...They also backed, by wide margins, four of five statewide ballot issues...Issue 2, a renewal of the Clean Ohio bond issuance, with proceeds used for brownfield cleanup and green space and farmland preservation, was approved 69 percent to 31 percent. -Hudson Hub Times -full story- back to top

11/06/2008: SCHOOL FUNDING, JOBS LIKELY AGENDA FOR DEMOCRATS AS THEY GAIN CONTROL OF OHIO HOUSE
COLUMBUS, OH –  ...Holed up in a downtown Columbus hotel room after 2 a.m. Wednesday, Rep. Armond Budish was watching the election results trickle in, and it looked as if Democrats might fall just short in their effort to net four seats and control of the House. Surrounded by dozens of friends and political allies, the Beachwood attorney, television host and author started to wonder aloud if they would do it. Then good news came with late-arriving votes from several urban counties, giving Democrats a majority in the 99-member chamber for the first time in 14 years.

That meant Budish, 55, would be the new House speaker, the first from the Cleveland area in 70 years. All of a sudden, the mild-mannered lawyer, husband and father of two was joining his No. 2 guy - Toledo-area Rep. Matt Szollosi - in some hotel room rowdiness... -The Plain Dealer -full story- back to top

10/10/2008: STATE ISSUE 2 WOULD RENEW BONDS FOR CLEAN OHIO ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM
CLEVELAND, OH –  Ohio may not yet be fully cleaned up, but environmental groups and state officials appear unified in their support for another eight years of a far-reaching program to keep working toward that goal. -The Plain Dealer -full story- back to top

09/11/2008: PLAIN DEALER: JEWISH COMMUNITY POLLED ON AGENCY'S MOVE
CLEVELAND, OH –  Stay or go? That question has wrested the attention of the Jewish community for nearly a year. Tuesday night, a professional polling firm sought to gauge the results of a lively debate. Melamed Communications says it found that 44 percent of the region's Jews believe the Jewish Community Federation of Cleveland should remain downtown. Twenty-five percent believe the federation should move to Beachwood and 31 percent do not care or are undecided. -click here for the full story- back to top

09/10/2008: JEWISH COMMUNITY OVERWHELMINGLY SUPPORTS FEDERATION HEADQUARTERS REMAINING IN DOWNTOWN - General community agrees
Cleveland, OH –  Today, The Committee to Keep JCF in CLE announced the results of a poll of Cleveland area residents to evaluate opinions on the proposed move of the Jewish Community Federation’s headquarters from downtown Cleveland to Beachwood. The survey was conducted on September 9, 2008 using a random sample of adults living in the areas of the Jewish community and sought the opinions of both the general population and specifically members of Jewish community.

The findings concluded that:

Communitywide (Sample size: 1,398, 2.7% margin of error)

JCF should remain in Cleveland                                  37.2%

JCF Should move from downtown to Beachwood    20.9%

Undecided/Unsure                                                          41.9%

Jewish Community -- Subset (Sample size: 363, 5.2% margin of error)

JCF should remain in Cleveland                                  44.1%

JCF Should move from downtown to Beachwood    25.3%

Undecided/Unsure                                                          30.6%

Click here to see the full results of the area-wide survey. For the full results of the Jewish community subset click here. If you have additional questions or for more information contact Alan Melamed at 216.659.6300.

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07/31/2008: TOP ELECTED OFFICIALS KICK-OFF CLEAN OHIO RENEWAL CAMPAIGN
Columbus, OH –  Today, on the Ohio Statehouse lawn, Governor Ted Strickland, Lt. Governor Lee Fisher, House Speaker Jon Husted and Senate President Bill Harris announced their support for the renewal of the Clean Ohio Fund and encouraged Ohio residents to vote “YES” on this issue on November.

www.CleanOhio.org

“The Clean Ohio program is the final, critical piece of the $1.57 billion bipartisan economic stimulus package," said Governor Strickland. "We know Clean Ohio will be successful because the program has produced such great results for Ohioans. The Clean Ohio program has led to the redevelopment of abandoned and polluted sites, spurred significant private sector investment in our communities and created jobs throughout the state."

The Citizens for a Clean Ohio Campaign is a renewal of a $400 million bond program that improves the quality of life for all Ohioans through community-directed investments in initiatives such as preserving natural areas and farmland, protecting waterways and redeveloping urban areas to foster economic growth. Clean Ohio is not a tax increase.

Public officials and local leaders from across Ohio have joined the Governor, Speaker and Senate President in supporting Clean Ohio. The campaign has already received more than 60 endorsements from organizations throughout Ohio including The Nature Conservancy in Ohio, Farm Bureau Federation, National Brownfield Association (Ohio Chapter), Ohio League of Conservation Voters, County Commissioners Association, the Ohio Municipal League and Audubon Ohio.

“The Clean Ohio fund is not only important to the environment, but it will help the Ohio economy by restoring land for industrial and business use and job creation without raising taxes,” said Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives, John Husted.

Since the program began in 2000, it has enabled the clean up of 173 abandoned and polluted sites and will leverage investments to redevelop sites across the state. It will result in nearly 15,000 new jobs and $2.6 billion in public and private investment.

The Clean Ohio Program has also conserved 26,000 acres of natural and wildlife habitat, preserved 20,000 acres of prime farmland and created 216 miles of additional recreational trails.

“It’s been exciting to see the positive impact of Clean Ohio on our state over the last 8 years,” said Senate President Harris. “Clean Ohio has proven what we can accomplish when we work together…but in order to keep this critical program, all Ohioans must vote for Clean Ohio this November.”

The Clean Ohio Fund will direct $200 million in funding for revitalization and cleanup of abandoned polluted industrial sites and an additional $200 million for conservation and preservation initiatives.

“We are delighted that this important issue has received such broad bipartisan support from Ohio’s top political leaders, business groups, farmland preservation organizations and conservationists,” said Steve Caminati, chairman of the Citizens for a Clean Ohio Campaign. “Clean Ohio is something we can all support – it creates jobs while preserving our quality of life for generations to come – and requires no new taxes.”

Voting “YES” on November 4 renews the Clean Ohio Fund – helping to keep our drinking water clean, protect our lakes and rivers, clean up contaminated land, preserve working farms, protect wildlife habitat and expand outdoor recreational opportunities for all Ohioans.

For more information on the Citizens for a Clean Ohio Campaign visit www.CleanOhio.org.

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CONTACT:
Brian Wright, Vice President
Melamed Communications, LLC
216.752.4900 ext. 21
brian@melamedcommunications.com

Kristin Mack
Paul Werth Associates
2614.224.8114 x230
kmack@paulwerth.com

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06/01/2008: MELAMED HIGHLIGHTED IN LATEST ISSUE OF AJC TODAY
Cleveland, Ohio –  Branding. It’s at the heart of any marketing program. It means staying focused on the product—its credibility, its uniqueness, its benefits.

Alan Melamed, president of AJC’s Cleveland chapter, knows a few things, about branding and communications.

In the past, he’s served as a legislative aide to a U.S. Senator, as an executive assistant to the director of Ohio’s Department of Development, and as a city council member.

In 1998, he served as a campaign spokesman for the gubernatorial run of the present Ohio state Lieutenant Governor, Lee Fisher. When that campaign came to a close, Melamed’s wife, Sarah, suggested it might be time for him to leave the practice of law.

He soon opened Melamed Communications, and his company has met great success.

Melamed became Cleveland Chapter president in 2005. Under his leadership, the chapter has flourished. “No doubt,” he says, “I brought the branding concept to my efforts at AJC.”

“At the chapter level, there should be a strong connection to the challenges AJC faces around the globe. There’s got to be an unrelenting focus on AJC’s unique mission, not on peripheral issues.

“Our mission is clear: fostering intergroup respect; promoting democratic values; standing up for Israel; and strengthening Jewish communities worldwide. That mission thoroughly distinguishes this organization.”

Since becoming an AJC chapter president, Melamed has deepened his interest in Jewish history and the Jewish heritage. “There, too,” he says, “it’s a matter of choosing priorities and staying focused.” <

CONTACT:
Richard J. Sideman, President
American Jewish Committee
www.ajc.org

Reproduced from June, 2008 edition of AJC Today back to top

02/26/2008: PLAIN DEALER OPENERS: OHIO DEMOCRATIC LEADERS JOIN FOR PARTY, BUT SPLIT ON CHOICES
CLEVELAND, OH – ... Alan Melamed, a highly respected Democratic political operative who is supporting Obama, agrees that Democrats are divided but he doesn't think they'll have trouble healing the wounds from the primary fight. -click here for the full story- back to top

02/12/2008: ALAN MELAMED MEETS WITH GOVERNOR TED STRICKLAND AND LT. GOVERNOR LEE FISHER
COLUMBUS, OH –  back to top

01/30/2008: BUDISH CAMPAIGN RAISES RECORD CONTRIBUTIONS IN 2007
Columbus, OH –  The campaign committee for State Representative Armond Budish announced today that his campaign had raised an unprecedented amount of money to help Minority Leader Joyce Beatty and the House Democratic Caucus take the majority in the Ohio House of Representatives.

Budish (D-Beachwood), a first-term Member of the Ohio House of Representatives, raised over $500,000 in 2007. The figure is believed to be the largest amount ever raised by a minority party freshman during a non-election year. In the 2005, the last off election year, the top four Democratic fundraisers combined raised a total of $480,000.

Should Democrats win a majority of the House in November, it will result in a change from Republican leadership for the first time since 1994. Democrats need to gain four additional seats in the fall elections to become the majority.

“We desperately need to turn the state around. The people of Ohio took a giant step in the right direction with the election of Ted Strickland as Governor. Now, we need the House of Representatives. I am working very hard to help Leader Beatty and the House leadership to ensure victory in November,” said Representative Budish.

CONTACT:
Alan Melamed, President
Melamed Communications, LLC
216.752.4900 ext. 20

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Paid for by Friends of Armond Budish, Eric Steiner, Treasurer, 23240 Chagrin Blvd., Suite 450, Beachwood, Ohio 44122 back to top

01/28/2008: JUDGE SIKORA TELLS OHIO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE "THANKS, BUT NO THANKS"
Cleveland, OH –  The Ohio Chamber of Commerce, in what could best be described as an act of sheer “political chutzpah”, has asked Ohio Supreme Court candidate Judge Peter Sikora to participate in its judicial candidate endorsement process.

In response to their request, Judge Sikora encouraged the Chamber to endorse his opponentstating, "Your endorsement of my opponent will be of substantial assistance in my campaign." Sikora added that he can not in good conscience accept an endorsement from an organization that just last week voted unanimously to oppose providing Ohio workers paid sick days.

Judge Sikora noted that the Ohio Chamber of Commerce is best known for its appalling attack campaign in 2000 to oppose the re-election of Justice Alice Robie Resnick, which stands out as one of the ugliest campaigns in Ohio history.

Judge Sikora noted how ironic it was that at just the same time, he received recommendation for endorsement from the North Shore AFL-CIO, an organization that truly represents the needs of Ohio workers.

According to Harriet Applegate, Executive Director of the organization, "The North Shore AFL-CIO is pleased to recommend such a highly qualified Judge as Peter M. Sikora as our candidate for the Ohio Supreme Court. Not only is Judge Sikora a friend of Working Men and Women here on the North Shore, but he has excellent qualifications for the Supreme Court of Ohio."

CONTACT:
Alan Melamed, President
Melamed Communications, LLC
216.752.4900 ext. 20

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Paid for by Sikora for Justice Committee, Chris Green, Treasurer 852 Elmwood Road, Rocky River, Ohio 44116 back to top

01/24/2008: PLAIN DEALER: STARK REASSESSING WAREHOUSE DISTRICT PLAN
CLEVELAND, OH –  Developer Bob Stark is reassessing his Warehouse District plans after learning that major downtown office tenants might move into a growing project in the Flats. -click here for the full story- back to top

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2007
11/27/2007: MELAMED COMMUNICATIONS UNVEILS NEW LOOK
BEACHWOOD, OH –  Melamed Communications, LLC (a full service strategic public relations and political consulting firm serving government, political and business organizations), today, debuted their new corporate look with a completely overhauled website and logo. The web site, available by visiting http://www.melamedcommunications.com, provides improved access to key information on the firm and their clients with attractive easy to use web pages that reflect the firm's creative style.

According to Alan Melamed, president and founder of Melamed Communications, "We really wanted to improve the site's value, while capturing the spirit of our success with this new image & I'm delighted by the result."

Among many improved features, the website includes photo and video samples of the firm's latest work, client press releases and a news aggregator that displays real-time client related news articles from across the web.

Since its inception in 1999, Melamed Communications has earned distinction as one of Ohio's leading strategic public relations and political consulting firms. Earlier this year they moved in to new headquarters in Beachwood, Ohio and the Company will be opening a second office in the Columbus area in the near future.

Fore more information on Melamed Communications visit http://www.melamedcommunications.com or call 216.752.4900.

CONTACT:
Brian Wright, Vice President
Melamed Communications, LLC
216.752.4900 ext. 21
brian@melamedcommunications.com

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08/20/2007: Melamed Featured Panel Speaker at Bliss Institute Conference Will Discuss Careers in Politics at Academic Outreach Conference
BEACHWOOD, OH –  The American Association of Political Consultants in coordination with The University of Akron Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics has invited Melamed Communications' President and CEO, Alan Melamed, to participate in a luncheon forum at their national Academic Outreach Conference, October 11-12, 2007 at the Radisson Hotel in Akron, Ohio.

The forum entitled, "Making Democracy Happen: Careers in Applied Politics", is part of a unique luncheon designed to provide sound advise and mentoring to students and individuals interested in careers in applied politics. It is the first conference of its kind in nearly four years.

According to representatives from the University of Akron more than 200 attendees are expected to participate in a unique program where students are matched with mentors for the duration of the conference. The luncheon is a special event where participants and their mentors will have the opportunity to learn and share ideas about what it takes to have a successful career in politics.

According to Alan Melamed, "As political professionals we all have an obligation to help foster new leadership in the field. There are so many opportunities for people to make a difference. I'm honored to be a part of the event."

To register for the conference visit
http://www.uakron.edu/bliss/blissConf.php. For more information on Melamed Communications visit http://www.melamedcommunications.com or call 216.752.4900 (Cleveland) 614.654.4477 (Columbus).

CONTACT:
Brian Wright, Vice President
Melamed Communications, LLC
216.752.4900 ext. 21
brian@melamedcommunications.com

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07/26/2007: ROKAKIS URGES CONGRESSIONAL ACTION AND FUNDING TO COMBAT FORECLOSURE CRISIS
WASHINGON, D.C. –  In testimony yesterday, before the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee (JEC), Cuyahoga County Treasurer Jim Rokakis presented the stark realities of Cleveland and Ohio's foreclosure crisis and urged committee members to combat predatory lending practices and provide national funding for foreclosure prevention programs.

"The predatory lending industry will stop only when they are forced to -- and not a day sooner. Please stop them," urged Rokakis.

Noting Ohio and the Cleveland area's status as a national leader in foreclosure filings, the Treasurer highlighted the impact reckless and abusive lending practices have had on neighborhoods and communities throughout the region and state.

"The real victims in this scandal, Mr. Chairman, were the hard working citizens of my community who pay their taxes, maintain their property and who watch helplessly as properties are sold and resold around them, going dark and being vandalized," explained Rokakis.

He continued, stating that while residents may not understand the complexities of the problem they understand the realities and are reacting accordingly. Over the past five years 50,000 residents have left Cuyahoga County - only Hurricane Katrina afflicted counties have experienced a greater loss.

Rokakis also gave his support of Committee Chairman Schumer, Senator Sherrod Brown and Senator Robert Casey's work to appropriate $300 million annually for foreclosure prevention programs as part of the 2008 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill.

The Treasurer's testimony was part of a hearing chaired by U.S. Senator Charles Schumer to investigate the negative impacts deceptive lending practices have had on American communities -- and the families who have been forced from their homes. The hearings focused on the impact of the sub-prime lending crisis on Cleveland, one of the hardest hit communities in the Nation.

Cleveland City Councilman Anthony Brancatelli, Ms. Annette Robinson (resident of Warrensville Heights), and Ms. Audrey Sweet (resident of Maple Heights) also testified.

Rokakis, known as one of the nation's leaders in foreclosure prevention, was asked to testify because of his leadership implementing Cuyahoga County's Foreclosure Prevention Program and for his efforts to improve vacant and neglected properties. He is currently working closely with Ohio Governor Ted Strickland on the State's first Foreclosure Prevention Task Force to curb the State's foreclosure epidemic.

Fore more information on Cuyahoga County Treasurer Jim Rokakis and the County's Foreclosure Prevention Program, visit http://treasurer.cuyahogacounty.us.

CONTACT:
Bruce Nimrick, Director of Community Programs and Outreach
Cuyahoga County Treasurer Jim Rokakis
216.443.2149

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07/16/2007: TREASURER HONORED AS COUNTY LEADER OF THE YEAR
RICHMOND, VA –  American City and County Magazine, a monthly publication for county and municipal leaders across the country, honored Cuyahoga County Treasurer Jim Rokakis with their highly-respected County Leader of the Year Award at a special ceremony held today at the National Association of Counties' (NACo) annual conference in Richmond, Virginia. Jim Rokakis was chosen for the award because of his leadership in fighting the foreclosure crisis and for a career of innovative programs that have improved the quality of life for residents and helped keep neighborhoods alive.

According to Bill Wolpin, Editorial Director and Associate Publisher of American City & County, "We are delighted to recognize Jim with this award. From his work at the local and state level to tackling the foreclosure crisis to his award-winning Housing Enhancement Loan Program, which helps improve homes, neighborhoods and communities - Jim Rokakis goes above and beyond the job description of Treasurer to implement programs that have made a difference."

In the July edition of the magazine, an extensive article highlights the reasons for his selection and details the wide variety of innovative solutions Jim Rokakis has implemented to confront regional challenges and fight neighborhood decline. While his work to stifle the onslaught of foreclosures was central to their decision, Rokakis was also recognized for other successes that include establishing Cleveland's first housing court, improving neighborhoods with low-interest home improvement loans, and fighting to help seniors keep their homes with a tax-relief program that will debut later this year.

According Judy Rawson, Mayor of Shaker Heights, who was quoted in the article, "He's been key...a crucial partner for solving a critical problem in our communities." She continued explaining that he is a, "Leader, innovator, coalition builder, a man of action and a public servant."

"I am both grateful and humbled to be recognized in this way," responded Rokakis. "Without the support of the Commissioners and our dedicated staff these accomplishments could not have become reality." He continued, "We've come a long way, but it's important to keep our work in perspective. There is still so much more we can do. I look forward to building on our success in the months and years to come."

For more information on Cuyahoga County Treasurer Jim Rokakis or American City and County Magazine's County Official of the Year Award, please visit http://treasurer.cuyahogacounty.us.

About American City & County Magazine
American City and County has been the voice of local government since 1909. The magazine serves a nationwide audience of city and county officials who are charged with developing and implementing local government policy, programs and projects. American City & County is published monthly and is owned by Penton Media, Inc. For more information about the magazine, visit www.americancityandcounty.com.

CONTACT:
Bruce Nimrick, Director of Community Outreach
Cuyahoga County Treasurer's Office
216.443.2149


Bill Wolpin, Editorial Director / Associate Publisher
American City & County Magazine
770-618-0112

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