Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Pill Alert: Johnson & Johnson Expands Tylenol Recall

19 Action News has a warning for everyone who uses Tylenol arthritis pain caplets.

The product is being recalled.


It comes in 100-count bottles with those Red E-Z open caps.


Customers reported an unusual moldy odor that caused nausea and upset stomachs.


It's believed to be from a chemical used in packaging.


If you have the product, you should stop using it and contact the company for a refund or replacement.


This latest recall expands a five-lot recall of the product announced last November.


For more on the Tylenol recall click HERE.

Free bus rides offered on New Year's Eve

Stark RTA to provide regular service. Summit requires First Night badges

Stark County Regional Transit Authority again will provide free rides on New Year's Eve, and Summit County's Metro RTA will give free rides to those wearing First Night buttons.


In Summit, after 3 p.m. until the close of First Night activities after midnight, passengers who display First Night buttons can ride free on regular line service buses. Excluded are SCAT service and North Coast Express.


First Night is Akron's family-friendly, alcohol-free New Year's Eve event at several venues downtown.


Summit's Metro Regional Transit Authority will not provide bus service Friday.


In Stark, on Thursday (after 6 p.m.) and into Friday morning, all fixed-route service will be free.


''Every year, there are people in our community that drive impaired, and the result is tragic. This holiday season, if you drink, please don't drive. Instead, ride SARTA for free,'' Kirt Conrad, chief executive officer of SARTA, said in a news release.


All of SARTA's regular routes will be in operation from 6 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. Thursday. At 9:45 p.m., the regular late-night buses will begin running, along with additional buses at 10:30 p.m.


SARTA's 151 North Late Night Loop will run until 2:50 a.m.; the 152 West Late Night Loop will run until 2:55 a.m., and the 153 East Late Night Loop will run until 2:55 a.m.


A free New Year's Eve bus serving Alliance and another traveling between the Belden Village area and Massillon also will be available.


All SARTA buses after 9:45 p.m. will have ''flag stop'' service, meaning that passengers can flag down the bus. This can be done anywhere along the bus route, provided it is in a safe area for the bus to stop and for the passenger to board.


SARTA's free-ride program is supported by Anheuser-Busch's Responsibility Matters designated driver campaign and the Stark County Sheriff's Office.


For more information, call SARTA at 330-47-SARTA (477-2782) or visit http://www.sartaonline.com/routes.html.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Tips for Getting by this Holiday

The holiday season is generally thought of as the “most wonderful time of the year”, but for many of us, it can be a time of loneliness or stress. Some people live far from family and miss seeing their loved ones this time of year. It’s also common for us to feel emotional distance, thus feeling lonely even if we’re in a room full of people. Christmas often holds a lot of memories and expectations for us that cannot be met this year.


If you’re experiencing loneliness or stress during this holiday season, the following suggestions might help:


1. Realize that you’re not alone. Many others are feeling the same way you are. It’s common to be blue during this time of year and it can help to simply acknowledge to yourself that you feel down, and that’s ok.


2. Try to divert your attention from all the Christmas fuss by following your regular routines. Try to get regular rest, exercise, and don’t overeat or drink excessively.


3. When you feel worst about yourself, it often helps most to reach out appreciate or help others. Put the focus on those around you who are in a similar situation and offer them what you can: kind words, a listening ear, a small gift, or even just a hug.


4. Use the stresses of this time of year to motivate you to improve in the New Year. Evaluate 2009: where you have been, where you are at, and make a plan for how to get where you want to be in 2010.


Lastly, take it easy on yourself. If none of the previous tips help, you can always apply a simple but useful wisdom to this holiday season: this too shall pass.

Veal Recall

A Bristolville Ohio company has recalled 772 pounds of veal because it may be contaminated with E. Coli.


Mahan Packing Company Inc. says the meat was sold to three stores between December 16th and Dec 21st:

*Rulli Brothers, 4331 Kirk Road in Austintown


*Zagreb Meats, 6706 St. Clair in Cleveland


*Sebastian Meats, 1979 W. 25th in Cleveland


A positive test for E. Coli was confirmed by the Ohio Department of Agriculture in a sample taken from the company earlier this month. There have been no reported illnesses from the products being voluntarily recalled.


You are being asked to return the product to the store where it was purchased.


According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention E. Coli can cause bloody diarrhea and stomach pain among other things.

H1N1 Vaccine Appointments Now Accepted

If you don't want to stand in line to get an H1N1 vaccine, you can now make an appointment.


The Akron Health Department is offering the vaccinations at the Morley Health Center downtown. You can schedule an appointment by calling 330-375-2876, option 5, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. weekdays.

The vaccine is free and available to anyone.


Since the end of October, close to 8000 people have received H1N1 vaccinations through Akron Health Department clinics.


Information from the Akron Health Department

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Akron Summit Earned Income Tax Credit Program

To Set up Your Appointment Call 1-866-861-6401
(Appointment Line Opens January 4, 2010)

Convenient Tax Preparation Locations:

Akron Summit Community Action, Inc.
670 West Exchange St.
Akron, Ohio 44302

Barberton Park & Recreation Active Adult Division
500 W. Hopocan Avenue
Barberton, Ohio 44203

For More Information
Call 211 or 330-376-6660

Tax Credit Eligibility Guidelines for Tax Year 2009:

• Families with one qualifying child who earned less than $35,462
in 2009 (or less than $40,463 for married filing jointly) are eligible for a credit of up to $3,043.

• Families with two qualifying children who earned less than $40 (or less than $45,295 for married filing jointly) are eligible for a credit up to $5,028.

• Families with three or more qualifying children who earned less than $40
(or less than $48,279 for married filing jointly) are eligible for a credit of up to $5,657.

• Individuals who do not have a qualifying child, but are between the ages of
25 and 64, with earned income of less than $13,440 in 2009 (or less than
$18,440 for married filing jointly) are eligible for a credit up to $457.

Monday, December 21, 2009

Jop Postings for the week of December 21st

Employer: Sterling House of Barberton
Position: Residential Care Associate
Details: Part-Time 1st and 3rd shifts
Requirements: Be able to provide residents personal care, housekeeping and dining services.
For more Information: Apply in person at
487 Austin Drive
Barberton, Ohio 44203

Employer: Springfield Church of the Brethren
Position: Church Secretary
Details: Part-Time
Requirements: Web and Computer Skills Required
For More Information: Send Resume to
Springfield Church of the Brethren
3500 Albrecht Ave.
Akron, Ohio 44312
or email resume to springieldcob@sbcglobal.net

Position: Phone receptionist for busy pediatric office
Details: Full-Time
Requirements: Experience preferred but will train the right person
For More Information: Send resume to
C/O The Akron Beacon Journal
P.O Box 1603
Akron, Ohio 44328

Position: Call Center Representative
Details: Part-Time, flexible hours
Requirements: Good customer service skills
For More Information: Call 330-869-9249

Employer: Sterling House of Barberton
Position: Cook
Details: Part-Time and Full-Time available
Requirements: Experienced cook preferred
For More Information: Apply in person
487 Austin Drive
Barberton, Ohio 44203

Employer: InCare Home Health
Position: Home Health Aides
Details: Part-Time to start
Requirements: STNA and 1 year experience
For More Information: Call Michelle at 330-945-6950

Employer: Summit Racing Equipment
Position: Entry Level Sales or Customer Service Representative
Details: Full-Time
Requirements: Desire to learn and grow
For More Information: Immediate Interviews held on Wednesday, January 13, 2010 from 9 am - 4 pm at 1200 Southeast Avenue, Tallmadge, Ohio 44278

Position: Print Sales Representative
Details: Full-Time
Requirements: Thorough knowledge of offset and digital print
For More Information: Email resume to johnwatts@haines.com

Employer: Topcraft, Inc.
Position: Cabinet Maker
Details: Full-Time
Requirements: Experienced cabinet and counter top maker
For More Information: Send resume and salary requirements to
Topcraft, Inc.
175 2nd St. South West
Barberton, Ohio 44203

Employer: Design Molded Plastics, Inc.
Position: Material Handler - Injection Molding
Details: Full-Time
Requirements: Must be able to lift 35 lbs. continuously and up to 65 lbs. occasionally. Experience with injection molding equipment and drying equipment is helpful.
For More Information: Send resume with salary history or apply in person at:
Design Molded Plastics, Inc.
8220 Bavaria Road
Macedonia, Ohio 44056

Employer: AGC Flat Glass
Position: Expediter, Shipper, Customer Service, Supervision, and General Production
Requirements: Experienced individuals with glass fabrication knowledge.
For More Information: Submit resume with references to
AGC Flat Glass
Attn: Human Resource Department
365 McClurg Road Suite E
Boardman, Ohio 44512

Employer: Ron Marhofer Autoplex
Position: Automotive Technician - Service Advisor
Details: Full-Time and Part-Time
Requirements: All skill levels negotiated
For More Information: Immediate Interview on Tuesday, December 29, 2009 from 6 pm - 8 pm
1260 Main Street
Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

Position: Punch Press Operator
Details: Full-Time
Requirements: Must have experience, set-up and run press. Must have clean criminal background and have own transportation.
For More Information: Call 330-535-3800

Position: Cleaner
Details: Nights only, Full-Time and Part-Time
Requirements: Responsible, detail orientated and willing to travel. Must pass background check.
For More Information: Call 330-940-9063

Position: Delivery Driver - delivering AT&T telephone directories
Details: Call for more information
Requirements: Must be 18 or older, have reliable transportation, proof of insurance and a valid driver's license.
For More Information: Call 1-800-733-9675

Employer: Magnolia Village Retirement Community
Position: Dietary Aide/Cook
Details: Second Shift, Part-Time
Requirements: Experience in food service
For More Information: Apply in person or send resume to
Magnolia Village Retirement Community
365 Johnson Road
Wadsworth, Ohio 44281

Position: Housekeeper
Details: Full-Time
Requirements: Experience necessary
For More Information: Apply in person at
4020 Wyndham Ridge Drive
Stow, Ohio

Position: Customer Service/Sales Representative
Details: 1-5 hours a week, flexible schedule
Requirements: No experience necessary, will train
For More Information: Call 330-836-0455

Employer: Ron Marhofer Autoplex
Position: Customer Service Trainee
Details: Inquire when applying
Requirements: High energy, flexible, detail orientated and a team player
For More Information: Apply in person at
Ron Marhofer Autoplex
1350 Main Street
Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

CPSC issues car seat recall

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a recall for some 447,000 baby seat carriers.


According to the CPSC, when used as an infant carrier, the child restraint handle to the seat can loosen and come off, causing a fall hazard.


The recall involves carriers manufactured by Dorel, and carrying logos from Safety 1st, Cosco, Eddie Bauer and Disney. They were sold between January 6th, 2008 and April 6th, 2009.


The CPSC advises consumers to stop using the handle on the carrier until a repair kit has been installed.

P & G Recalls Vicks DayQuil Capsules

Procter & Gamble Co. is recalling 700,000 bonus packs of Vicks DayQuil capsules because they are not childproof.


The consumer product maker, based in Cincinnati, said Friday the affected products do not contain child-resistant packaging, despite such labeling claims on the box. P&G includes extra packs of DayQuil Cold & Flu 24-Count LiquiCaps as a special offer during the cold season.


Procter & Gamble says there have been no reports of accidental ingestion by children. DayQuil capsules are not indicated for children younger than 12.


Consumers can contact the company at 1-800-251-3374 for a refund or replacement coupon. Those who continue using the product should keep it out of reach of children, the company says in a statement.


Friday, December 18, 2009

XEROX IS DOING SOMETHING COOL

If you go to this web site, www.LetsSayThanks.com you can pick out a thank you card and Xerox will print it and it will be sent to a soldier that is currently serving in Iraq . You can't pick out who gets it, but it will go to a member of the armed services.


How AMAZING it would be if we could get everyone we know to send one!!! It is FREE and it only takes a second.


Wouldn't it be wonderful if the soldiers received a bunch of these? Whether you are for or against the war, our soldiers over there need to know we are behind them.


This takes just 10 seconds and it's a wonderful way to say thank you. Please take the time and please take the time to pass it on for others to do. We can never say enough thank you's.


Thanks for taking to time to support our military!

Free Holiday Meals

The Haven of Rest Ministries - located at 175 E Market Street - will be serving its annual Christmas Day meals to homeless and needy individuals.

Those who may be spending the day alone are also welcome to come and enjoy the festive, traditional holiday meal that is served in a warm and comforting atmosphere.


More than 800 men, women and children are expected to arrive for the meal, and nearly one hundred volunteers will be on hand to help with preparing, serving and clean-up. Guests should arrive at 11:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.


Christmas gift bags of personal care items will be distributed at both meals, and special gift bags have been prepared for the children.


For more than 66 years, Haven of Rest has served the needs of homeless and hurting people. Its doors are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.


Homeless and destitute men, women and children can receive meals, lodging, clothing and other services through Haven of Rest. There is never any charge for these services.


Warm Up: Winter Heating Help Is Now Available

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) – This federally funded grant program is administered by the State of Ohio Department of Development through a network of local community action agencies.


Information about the HEAP program is available by calling 1-800-282-0880. The program provides customers with help paying winter heating bills in two ways:


  • HEAP Cash Program – annual grant to help with heating costs
  • HEAP Emergency Program – provides emergency payments from October through April for qualified low-income customers to avoid a shutoff or to restore electric service.

Winter Reconnect Program – Now through April 15, 2010, customers who have been disconnected or advised of disconnection can make a one-time payment of $175 to restore electric service or avoid disconnection, regardless of the balance owed.


This option can be used only once during the winter season, and a payment plan for any past-due amount must be established and maintained.


Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) – This program helps qualifying customers with a household income at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level to pay past-due balances.


Customers in this program pay only a percentage of their household income and electric service is maintained as long as the required payments continue to be made.


Ohio Fuel Fund Program – This program, administered by various local agencies, is designed to help residential customers who have suffered a recent financial hardship and need temporary help to pay their electric bill. Program funding is provided by FirstEnergy. Information is available by calling 1-800-686-3421.


Extended Payment Plans – An extended payment plan is designed to help customers gradually pay off an accumulated balance by dividing the overdue balance into equal payments over a set period of time. Each month, customers on the plan pay their current amount plus the extended payment installment until the past-due balance is zero.


FirstEnergy also offers a program called Third Party Notification where a relative, friend, clergy, or social service agency can be notified along with the customer if electric service is about to be disconnected. The third party is not obligated to pay the overdue bills, but can help make payment arrangements for the customer who might have difficulty paying their bill.

Liferide Is Back For The Holiday Season


The Holidays are here which means there can't be a worse time to get caught drinking and driving.

Many people will be attending holiday parties and there's a way to keep safe if you will be drinking during that time.


Liferide is a safe alternative for those who choose to drink and get home safely when you've had too much to drink.


Here's how it works: Starting Friday, from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m. New Year's Day, those needing a ride home can call 330-376 RIDE. A Yellow Cab will meet you at an area restaurant or bar to take you home.


This is not intended as a shuttle from party to party or to take you from home to the party. Private parties are do not qualify as well.


You must have a valid driver's license and proof of your home address. Only one ride per person.


Liferide is sponsored by :

WAKR/WONE/WQMX Radio
AkronNewsNow.com
Budwiser
Todaro's Party Center
The Health Plan
The Akron Firefighter's Credit Union
The NECA
Info Line for City Yellow Cab


AkronNewsNow along with the Akron Radio Center wants to have a good time this holiday season, so select a designated driver or call Liferide.

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Uninsured gain cheaper blood tests

For uninsured patients, lab tests don't need to bleed them of all their money.


The Summit County Medical Society recently struck a deal with a Web-based lab ordering site to provide low-cost blood tests for patients without health insurance.


To access the discount program, patients anywhere may visit the medical society's Web site, http://www.scmsoc.org, and select ''Uninsured patients click here.''


Patients then are linked to the discount lab fee program, which is run by Prepaid Lab LLC, based in Avon Lake.


Users enter the labs ordered by their physician and pay by credit card to get a form for the tests, which can be drawn at LabCorp locations.


The results are e-mailed to the patient and faxed to the doctor.


''There are a lot of uninsured out there, and I think a lot of them aren't going to the doctor's office just because of the perception that they can't afford it,'' said Dr. Doug Lefton, a primary-care physician in Fairlawn. ''We're trying to have some options for them.''


Lefton has been leading the medical society's campaign to get labs to accept lower payments from uninsured patients.


By law, labs and other medical providers must charge everyone the same rate for services. Most bills then are steeply discounted for patients covered by government and private health-insurance plans.


The billed or ''sticker price'' for a lipid profile test for cholesterol ranges from $40.80 to $147.75 at labs and hospitals in the Akron area, according to a survey earlier this year.


The same test is available for $17.77 through the Summit County Medical Society Web site.

Participants also pay a $9.50 service fee each time tests are ordered.


The Summit County Medical Society doesn't receive any of the money, Lefton said.


''You're not going to find a lower rate than this,'' he said.


Randy Simon, 62, of Massillon was among the first patients to order lab tests through Prepaid.


Simon lost his job about 11/2 years ago during a downsizing and now works two part-time jobs, neither of which offer health insurance.


When his doctor recently told him he needed blood tests that he figured would cost him several hundred dollars, he resisted.


''I said to him: 'I can't do it. I understand I need this blood work done, but the fact remains, I can't afford it,' '' he recalled.


His physician, a partner of Lefton's, recommended he try ordering the tests through the medical society's Web site.


The cost: $64.


''I said, 'You've got to be kidding me,' '' he said. ''It's definitely a great thing. It's a great idea. I can't believe it was that simple, that easy.''


Prepaid is able to get lower rates for tests because the program eliminates billing, collection and bad-debt costs for labs, said Tom Patton, chief executive of Prepaid Lab.


''They're selling us a product without all the overhead,'' he said. ''It's guaranteed money.''


Everyone benefits, he said.


''If people know that there's a place that they can get their labs at a low enough cost that they can take care of it, they get the treatment they need,'' Patton said.


The Prepaid program is the second discount option the Summit County Medical Society has secured this year for uninsured patients.


In July, Pioneer Physicians Network Inc. agreed to provide commonly ordered blood tests to uninsured patients at its offices in Tallmadge, Norton, Uniontown and Green.


Lefton said he also is continuing to negotiate lower-cost blood tests and radiology services for uninsured patients at Akron's hospitals.


''The list prices are just incredibly expensive,'' he said.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Prevent: Find Local H1N1 Clinics Here!

Counties throughout Ohio continue to hold H1N1 Clinics this weekend. Click here for a list of H1N1 clinic locations by county.

Those being vaccinated were asked to pre-register for vaccination.


If a local health department in your area is not listed here, please contact the local health department to determine if there are H1N1 vaccination clinics taking place near you. You could also contact your health care provider to see if they have any vaccine.


The Ohio H1N1 Information line is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please call 1-866-800-1404 for answers to your questions about H1N1 flu.

Be Advised: More Than 50 Million Blinds and Shades Recalled

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is expected to announce they'll recall about 50-million Roman blinds because they pose a suffocation hazard for children.


The recall involves window coverings that can form a loop and cause strangulation. According to information provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, since 1990, more than 200 infants and young children have died from accidentally strangling in window cords.

Consumers can obtain free retrofit kits for roman style fabric looped and flat panel shades and roll up blinds online at www.windowcoverings.org or by calling WCSC's toll-free phone line at 1-800-506-4636.


To maximize window-cord safety when young children are present, consumers are urged to follow these safety guidelines:

  • Install only cordless window coverings in homes with young children. Replace window blinds, corded shades and draperies manufactured before 2001 with today's safer products.
  • Move all cribs, beds, furniture and toys away from windows and window cords, preferably to another wall.
  • Keep all window pull cords and inner lift cords out of the reach of children. Make sure that tasseled pull cords are short and continuous-loop cords are permanently anchored to the floor or wall. Make sure cord stops are properly installed and adjusted to limit movement of inner lift cords.
  • Lock cords into position whenever horizontal blinds or shades are lowered, including when they come to rest on a windowsill.

Families are sustained by turkey giveaway

It was nearly an hour into the giveaway Monday morning and only 57 of the free turkeys had been picked up at St. John's Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Akron.


James Gibbons wasn't about to fret.


''Just let the word get out,'' Gibbons said, ''and they will come. It's just a matter of time, just a matter of time.''


Sure enough, it was just a matter of time before people arrived — and arrived — at the church at 1233 S. Hawkins Ave.


Nearly 125 of the 200 turkeys St. John's CME food ministry had obtained were distributed to area families during the two-hour giveaway.


Money for the turkeys was raised through donations at the church, assistant food ministry director Thomas Shaw said.


The remaining frozen birds will be distributed on a first-come basis from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. today at the church's once-a-month food bag giveaway.


''We want to provide as much for the community as we possibly can,'' said Gibbons, director of the St. John's food ministry, which runs on the efforts of 10 dedicated volunteers.


''We had done a lot of things before in the 26 years we've been in the food ministry, but this was the first year we've been able to give away turkeys at Christmas.''


The Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank let St. John's know it had 15-pound turkeys available a while back, ''and we jumped on it,'' Gibbons said.


He said the church will do the giveaway next year, ''and forever if they give us the opportunity.''


Estella Bushner, a West Akron resident, said the turkey giveaway was perfectly timed for her family.


''We have had some problems,'' she said. ''We have a son who is out of work.


''Getting this today will make certain that we will have turkey for Christmas dinner. This really means a lot to my entire family.''


Shaw said that is the essence of why the food ministry provides such services as its twice-weekly hot lunches, the annual Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, and the food bag giveaways that average about 100 takers.


The food bag giveaway is limited to residents of the 44320 ZIP code, but everything else is open to all in need.


''We are fortunate,'' said Shaw, a General Tire and Rubber Co. retiree, ''but others are not as fortunate.


''It is for them that we exist. We want to continue to give back as much to the community as we can.''

Monday, December 14, 2009

Watermain Break Could Force Louisville Residents to Boil Water

LOUISVILLE, OH (WOIO) - Residents in Louisville are experiencing a watermain failure which will affect residents from North Chapel at Frana Clara, north to the city limits. Once water is restored, residents in the areas around North Chapel from Frana Clara to the north city limits will be under a boil alert for the next 48 to 72 hours.


Louisville has no evidence at this time that the water system is contaminated, The possibility however does exist so this advisory is being issued as a precaution. Until you receive information from the water department that your water service is free of contaminants, you should boil your water before consuming it or use bottled water.


For the most up-to-date information, check the Louisville website at www.louisvilleohio.com. Residents may also use the Louisville Emergency Information Line at 330-875-3614 ext 777 to receive updated information.


Hot Meals Program Resumes

A hot meals program that was temporarily shut down this summer after the closing of St. John's Parish in Akron is resuming.


The program, run by Catholic Social Services of Summit County (CSSSC), a division of CYO and Community Services, will provide the meals at two locations in Summit County.

The meals will be served Tuesdays from 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM at Dowed Hall at Visitation of the Blessed Virgin, 87 Broad Street, and Wednesdays from 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM at Frey Hall at Blessed Trinity, 300 E. Tallmadge Ave.


Everyone is welcome at either location.


Volunteers are needed to cook and serve. If you are interested, call the CYO Volunteer Coordinator at 330.762.2961, x232.


Information provided by Catholic Social Services of Summit County

Friday, December 11, 2009

Job Opportunity

Ohio Service & Supply

Will be interviewing at

The Job Center
1040 E. Tallmadge Ave.
Akron, OH 44310

Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Noon – 4:00 p.m.
Room 125

To fill an immediate need for a

Working Supervisor

Permanent Part-time Position
Evening hours, Mon. – Fri.
30 hrs/wk - $8/hr

Watch the Akron Beacon Journal for further job details or visit
The Job Center’s Resource Room for job order OH503757

News Alert: Ohio's Unemployment Scam

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) - The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) and Attorney General Richard Cordray's office have received widespread reports of a national scheme targeting recipients of unemployment compensation benefits in Ohio. Those targeted receive fraudulent text messages on their cell phones, claiming to be from state unemployment agencies. The fraudulent messages inform recipients that their unemployment benefits have been suspended and to call the provided phone number to reactivate. When recipients call, they are asked for personal information, including debit card numbers and personal identification numbers (PIN). At that point, unemployment benefits deposited on the debit card are accessed and withdrawn by the scam artist.


"We want to make all unemployment recipients in Ohio aware of this very real threat," said ODJFS Director Douglas Lumpkin. "ODJFS representatives will never ask for claimants' debit card information or their PIN numbers. Claimants should not give this information out over the phone."


According to complaints filed with the Attorney General's Office, several additional versions of this scam are currently circulating with similar messages that allege account problems with various credit cards issued by U.S. Bank. Recipients are encouraged to call the number and provide personal information. Attorney General Cordray strongly urges Ohioans to disregard the message and not provide any personal information.


"This is a prime example of how a scam can mutate and adapt to changing times and trends," Cordray said. "With the use of text messaging on the rise, it is no surprise that scammers have manipulated the system to target unsuspecting individuals. I cannot emphasize enough the importance of remaining vigilant and exercising extreme caution with personal information. In this case, disregard the message. Do not provide any personal information."


ODJFS is working with its debit card provider, U.S. Bank, to further protect, inform and educate its customers. Anyone who receives one of these fraudulent messages should not respond. Anyone who suspects funds have been inappropriately accessed should call the customer service number provided on the back of their U.S. Bank debit card: (866) 276-5114.


In response to the many complaints received by ODJFS and the Attorney General's Office, U.S. Bank has issued the following statement: "The safety and security of customers' accounts and information is a top priority of U.S. Bank. We would never ask a customer to place their personal information in jeopardy by contacting them and asking them to divulge it over the phone, via e-mail or text messages. If customers have any questions or see suspicious activity on their account, they should contact the customer service number on the back of their cards."


Cordray also urges Ohioans who have become victims of this scam or any other phishing scam to immediately report the incident to local police and contact his office at http://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/speakoutohio.aspx/ or by calling (800) 282-0515.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Baby Alert: 24,000 Baby Beds Recalled After 2 Deaths

The federal agency in charge of product safety announced the recall of 24,000 Amby Baby hammocks after reports of two infants dying from suffocation in the beds.

Minneapolis-based Amby is cooperating with the Consumer Product Safety Commission, which said the Motion Bed's side-to-side shifting and tilting can cause an infant to roll out. Babies could then can get trapped in the hammock's fabric or mattress pad, resulting in possible suffocation.


The CPSC said Amby Baby is aware that the bed, caused the death of a 4-month old girl in Lawrenceville, Ga. and a 5-month-old boy in Gresham, Ore. this summer.


There is only one model of the hammock, which has been sold on the company's Web site and other online retailers between January 2003 and October 2009 for $250


The CPSC said consumers should stop using the bed immediately and contact Amby Baby USA for a free repair kit at 866-544-9721.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Slim-Fast recalling products

Slim-Fast is voluntarily recalling some of its products.

The recall affects all of the Slim-Fast ready-to-drink products in cans.

The company says it's possible the drinks may be contaminated with a micro-organism. The bacteria can cause diarrhea, nausea or vomiting.

If you have the cans, throw them out immediately. Contact the company at 1-800-896-9479 for a full refund.

Monday, December 7, 2009

H1N1 Vaccine Eligibility will be Expanded to all Ohioans Beginning Monday, December 14, 2009

The Ohio Department of Health announced on Friday, December 4, 2009 that H1N1 vaccine eligibility will be expanded to all Ohioans beginning Monday, December 14, 2009. For H1N1 clinic information in Summit County, please go to www.summitflu.org

The influenza activity level in Ohio continues to be widespread. There have been 40 confirmed pandemic A (H1N1) influenza-related deaths in Ohio. During the 2009-2010 season, there have been 7 influenza-associated pediatric mortality reports of which 3 had confirmed 2009 pandemic A (H1N1).

Here is a list of Summit County H1N1 clinic for the month of December 2009:

Date: Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Time: 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Location:
The Chapel - Green Campus
1800 Raber Road
Uniontown, Ohio 44685

Details about the clinic:
  1. First-come-first-served
  2. NO ADMITTANCE PRIOR TO 2:00 PM
  3. Please do not call the clinic location for information- call the Summit County Health District's Flu Hotline at 330-926-1801.

Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Time: 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Location:
Twinsburg Park and Recreation Center
10260 Ravenna Road
Twinsburg, Ohio 44087

Details about the clinic:

  1. First-come-first-served
  2. NO ADMITTANCE PRIOR TO 2:00 PM
  3. Please do not call the clinic location for information- call the Summit County Health District's Flu Hotline at 330-926-1801.

Date: Thursday, December 17, 2009
Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location:
Fairlawn Community Center
3486 South Smith Road
Fairlawn, Ohio 44333

Details about the clinic:

  1. First-come-first-served
  2. NO ADMITTANCE PRIOR TO 2:00 PM
  3. Please do not call the clinic location for information- call the Summit County Health District's Flu Hotline at 330-926-1801.

Date: Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Time: 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Location:
Cuyahoga Falls Natatrorium
Health and Fitness Center
2345 4th Street
Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio 44221

Details about the clinic:

  1. First-come-first-served
  2. NO ADMITTANCE PRIOR TO 2:00 PM
  3. Please do not call the clinic location for information- call the Summit County Health District's Flu Hotline at 330-926-1801.

Date: Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location:
Akron-Springfield Assembly of God
1551 Canton Road
Akron, Ohio 44312

Details about the clinic:

  1. First-come-first-served
  2. NO ADMITTANCE PRIOR TO 2:00 PM
  3. Please do not call the clinic location for information- call the Summit County Health District's Flu Hotline at 330-926-1801.

2010 Census Jobs

2010 Census Jobs

The U.S. Census Bureau is recruiting temporary, part-time census takers for the 2010 Census. These short-term jobs offer good pay, flexible hours, paid training, and reimbursement for authorized work-related expenses, such as mileage incurred while conducting census work. Best of all, census takers work right in their own communities.

Census taker jobs are excellent for people who want to work part-time, those who are between jobs, or just about anyone who wants to earn extra money while performing an important service for their community.

Click to watch video clips about being a census taker

Hundreds of thousands are needed for temporary jobs

Conducting the census is a huge undertaking. Hundreds of thousands of census takers are needed nationwide to help locate households and conduct brief personal interviews with residents. Most positions require a valid driver's license and use of a vehicle. However, use of public transportation may be authorized in certain areas.

Your community is counting on you

Every 10 years, the Census Bureau takes a snapshot of our population, determining how many people reside within the nation's borders, who they are, and where they live. The results help determine your representation in government, as well as how federal funds are spent in your community on things like roads, parks, housing, schools, and public safety. As a census taker, you'll play a vital role in making sure that everyone is counted.

Bilingual speakers are encouraged to apply

All census takers must be able to speak English, but people who have bilingual skills are needed in communities where a large number of residents primarily speak other languages. If you have the appropriate language skills and cultural knowledge to communicate well in your community, we encourage you to apply.

Apply today by contacting your Local Census Office or by calling 1-866-861-2010 .

Local Census Offices:

Arkon
1033 East Turkeyfoot Lake Road
Akron, Ohio 44312
Phone: 330-776-3030
Pay Rate: $13.25 per hour

Canton
101 Cleveland Avenue Northwest
Canton, Ohio 44702
Phone: 330-639-2892
Pay Rate: $12.50 per hour



How to Apply

It's easy to apply! Call your Local Census Office and schedule an appointment to take the employment test. Use our interactive map to find the local phone number of the nearest Local Census Office.

You may also call our toll-free Jobs Line at 1-866-861-2010. TTY users should call the Federal Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339.

Can I download the application forms online?

Yes. Visit the application materials section of this web site to download, fill out, and print an application form with instructions. Please bring your completed application, I-9 Form, and proper identification to your scheduled testing session. Do not mail your application or I-9 Form. Applications must be submitted in person, on the day of your employment test.

Will I be hired?

Most hiring will take place during the spring of 2010. Job offers depend on several factors, such as the availability of work in your community, test score, language skills, veterans' preference, and the number of hours you are available to work each week. Please understand that not every qualified applicant who takes the employment test and applies will be offered a census job. Job offers are made by the Local Census Office.


In addition to applying to be a census taker, are there other jobs I can apply for?

Possibly. To learn about other census jobs in your area, please visit the 2010 Census Regional Offices Web site, select your state on the map provided, and then select the "Regional Employment" option.


Job Offer

Company: Path Stone
Position: Training and Employment Specialist
Details: Full-Time

Position Description: To develop and maintain employment and training opportunities for program clients and to assist and support clients in utilizing those opportunities. This position operates within a work team which is charged with delivery of client services including employment, training, emergency, support, advocacy and referral services.

Position Requirements: Must have valid driver's license and properly insured vehicle available for work responsibilities. Position also requires knowledge, experience, and proficiency, demonstrated through up to three years of work experience and/or training, of technical and interpersonal skills in the area of job training and employment, and/or marketing, with specific emphasis on the issues of migrant farm workers.

For More Information: please submit a resume before 12/12/2009

Submit resume to:
Pearl Lozoya
Regional Supervisor
1005 s. Arch Ave.
Alliance, Ohio 44601
Phone: 330-821-4740
Fax: 330-821-8510
Email: plozoya@pathstone.org

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Call Center HIRING EVENT

at The Job Center
1040 E. Tallmadge Avenue
Akron, Ohio 44310
330-633-1050

Thursday, December 10
1:00-4:00 p.m.

Homesite Home Insurance
Sterling Jewelers
Life Line Screening

*Others to be announced

These employers are looking for you to join their customer service team. Strong communication skills, basic computer skills and a high comfort level talking on the phone are essential. Be professionally dressed and bring your resume to make the best first impression.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Community Events Calendar

Thursday, December 03, 2009
5:30 PM
Light Up Downtown Downtown Canton
The Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce's 19th annual Light Up Downtown will have attractions, entertainment, refreshments and goody bags for the kids on Thursday, Dec. 3, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. For the first time ever, Santa's very first Children's Elf is heading to downtown Canton for a magical, musical holiday jamboree and ELFstravaganza on the main stage at 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.LightUpDowntown.com.












Saturday, December 05, 2009
9:00 AM
Summit Juvenile Court Saturday Series Summa Health Auditorium

The third installment of the Summit County Juvenile Court’s Saturday Series will feature Andrea Denton, BSEd. Ms. Denton is the Co-facilitator of the Summit County Suicide Prevention Coalition of the Summit County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board. She also facilitates “Survivors,” a support group for those who have lost family or friends to suicide. Ms. Denton’s topic will be “Youth Suicide.” Summa Health System’s Idabelle Firestone Center Auditorium, 41 Arch Street, from 9am until 11:30am. There is no charge and the public is invited to attend.













Monday, December 07, 2009
6:00 PM
Angel Tree Ceremony Oliver Ocasek Building
The Victim Assistance Program will hold the 15h Annual Angel Tree Ceremony and Homicide Memorial Service on Monday, December 7, 2009 from 6-7:15 p.m. The ceremony will be held in the Atrium of the Oliver Ocasek Building at 161 S. High Street in Akron. For more information, call the office at (330) 376-0040.











Thursday, December 10, 2009
5:00 PM
Summit Lake Brief Advice & Counsel Clinic OPEN M
Community Legal Aids Volunteer Legal Services Program (VLSP) will team up with local attorneys for the Summit Lake Brief Advice & Counsel Clinic on Thursday, December 10th. The clinic is held at OPEN M (941 Princeton St. in Akron). Pre-registration is not necessary, but individuals who wish to participate in the clinic should arrive between 5 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to register. For more information, call 330-983-2695.












Thursday, December 17, 2009
4:00 PM
Community Support Services Meeting

Community Support Services, Inc., will hold its monthly Board of Directors Meeting on Thursday, December 17, 2009, at 150 Cross Street, Akron 44311. The meeting will begin at 4:00 p.m. and is open to the public. Board committee meetings are held monthly. For further information, call (330) 996-9141, Ext. 169.











Monday, December 28, 2009
5:00 PM
Grow Barberton Inc. Downtown Barberton Christmas Walk & Lighting of Lake Anna Downtown Barberton
Join us for the Annual Grow Barberton, Inc. Downtown Barberton Christmas Walk & City of Barberton Lighting of Lake Anna on Saturday November 28th, from 5pm-9pm. For more information, call Grow Barberton, Inc. at (330)472-0366.

Beware Of New H1N1 Scam

Posing as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), scammers have found a new angle in the effort to exploit fears driven by the spread of the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus, sometimes called "swine flu."

Attorney General Richard Cordray today urges Ohioans to beware of an e-mail which carries a computer virus that may infect your computer and provide a stranger with access to your personal information.


The bogus e-mail announces the launch of a "state vaccination H1N1 program" and encourages the user to create a personal vaccination profile. It provides a link to a Web page that looks similar to the CDC site. Within the page are downloadable instructions for creating your personal vaccination profile.


Cordray warns that by downloading the instructions, visitors are downloading a virus onto their computers.
"Any time you receive an e-mail from someone you are not familiar with, I strongly recommend avoiding the provided links," said Cordray. "Clicking on that link can unleash downloadable viruses capable of capturing your personal information and sending it back to the scam artist."


Because of these potential phishing attacks and e-mail scams, Cordray encourages consumers who are interested in H1N1 influenza virus information to visit the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services informational Web site at www.flu.gov or the Ohio Department of Health informational site, www.flu.ohio.gov.


Cordray also offers the following tips to help Ohioans avoid phishing scams:


Contact the institution yourself: Don't respond to unsolicited requests for your personal information. Instead, contact the organization at a phone number or a Web address you know to be correct.


Don't click on links in e-mails: Be cautious about opening any attachments or downloading any files from e-mail messages. Links and attachments can make your computer vulnerable to viruses.


Look for warning signs: Misspelled words or a lack of personal greetings may signal fraud. However, the presence of a personal greeting or a lack of errors does not guarantee legitimacy. Always be skeptical.


Use spam filters, anti-virus software, anti-spyware software and a firewall: Update your security software regularly. The software can help stop your computer from accepting unwanted files that can be sent via phishing e-mails.


Don't give out personal information via e-mail: E-mail is not a secure method of transmitting personal information. A bank or governmental agency will never request personal information via e-mail.


Monitor your accounts: Review credit card and bank account statements as soon as you receive them. If you find unauthorized charges, immediately notify your bank or credit card provider.


Report phishing scams to the company or organization the scam artist is impersonating and to the Ohio Attorney General's Office. Report this phishing scam or any other scam to the Attorney General's Office at www.SpeakOutOhio.gov or by calling (800) 282-0515.


Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Get Tested: It's World AIDS Day

In support of World AIDS Day, the Cleveland Department of Public Health (CDPH) encourages public participation in this week's National HIV/AIDS Strategy Town Hall meeting.

Other HIV/AIDS awareness activities, such as the It's All About You HIV testing event, will be held in the hopes of raising awareness for World AIDS Day.

The CDC estimates there are about 56,000 new HIV infections in the U.S. every year. There are 2,896 people in Cleveland currently living with HIV/AIDS, and there are 4,036 persons who are currently living with HIV/AIDS in Cuyahoga County. World AIDS Day provides an opportunity for all of us - individuals, communities and political leaders - to take action and ensure that human rights are protected and global targets for HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care are met.

This year's World AIDS Day presents the residents of Cleveland and all of Ohio with an opportunity to provide formal testimony to the White House, Office of National AIDS Policy for the development of a National HIV/AIDS Strategy.

The White House wants to hear from consumers, advocates and providers of HIV/AIDS services; as well as community members about their recommendations for: 1) Reducing HIV incidence; 2) Increasing access to care and optimizing health outcomes; and 3) Reducing HIV-related health disparities. The Office of National AIDS Policy has scheduled Ohio's only Town Hall Meeting in Cleveland. The public meeting will be held on Thursday, December 3, 2009, 6-9PM at First United Methodist Church, 3000 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44115. RSVPs are requested to the Ohio AIDS Coalition (OAC) at 800-226-5554 or info@ohioaidscoalition.org. The CDPH encourages the public to participate in this event and share their ideas on how to respond to HIV/AIDS in the United States.

The CDPH also encourages all residents to get an HIV test so they will know their HIV status. An estimated 20-25% of people with HIV are unaware of their infection. The lack of knowledge about their HIV status prevents them from accessing the medical care they need to be healthy and to reduce the possibility that they will spread the virus to others. To find a free HIV test, call 1-800-332-AIDS (2437) or visit www.hivtest.org. Free rapid HIV testing is available at the City of Cleveland's Thomas McCafferty and J. Glen Smith Health Centers. Additionally, the Agape Program will host the It's All About You World AIDS Day HIV testing event at the Civic Center, 3130 Mayfield Road, Cleveland Heights, Ohio on Saturday, December 5, 2009 from 12pm-6pm. There will be a special guest appearance and fashion presentation by Shaker Heights native, Sheree Whitfield of "The Real Housewives of Atlanta".

World AIDS Day…/add one

Ongoing HIV/STD Testing in the Greater Cleveland Area

J Glen Smith Health Center Thomas F. McCafferty Health Center

11100 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland 4242 Lorain Ave., Cleveland

216-249-4100 216-651-5005

The Free Clinic of Greater Cleveland Planned Parenthood of Northeast Ohio

12201 Euclid Ave. Cleveland 3500 Lorain Ave., Suite 400, Cleveland

216-721-4010 216-991-8804

2009 World AIDS Day Events in Cleveland

CWRU/UH/Metro AIDS Clinical Trials Unit/John T. Carey Special Immunology Unit

12th Annual World AIDS Day Patient & Community Update and Awareness, Tuesday, December 1, 2009 at 6:00pm. CWRU Wolstein Research Building, 2103 Cornell Road, Cleveland

For additional information contact: 216-844-2247 or email rob2@case.edu; www.clevelandactu.org

City Club of Cleveland, Friday, December 11th at noon, Jeffrey S. Crowley, MPH, Senior Research Scholar at Georgetown University's Health Policy Institute, appointed by President Barack Obama as the Director of the Office of National AIDS Policy, has been coordinating the federal government's efforts on HIV/AIDS policy and has helped to guide the administration's development of disability policies since February 2009.

Tickets are available by contacting The City Club at (216) 621-0082 or www.cityclub.org and are $18 for members, $30 for non-members.

Community Outreach w/AIDS Funding Collaborative & Community Partners

Community Outreach w/ AIDS Funding Collaborative & Community Volunteers will distribute HIV prevention literature at the RTA Rapid Stations, November 30, 2009 from 4pm-6pm. For additional information contact: Melissa Federman at 216-781-2944 x412.

Care Alliance Health Center, 1530 St. Clair Avenue, Cleveland, 216-781-6228 x425 RSVP

World AIDS Day Memorial & Social, Tuesday, December 1, 2009 from 12:00pm-1:30pm.

Free Medical Clinic of Greater Cleveland, 12201 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, 216-721-4010

Free HIV Testing and premiere of a new HIV/AIDS Awareness Video on Tuesday, December 1, 2009 from 4pm - 7:30pm. Reception with light refreshments will follow.

MetroHealth & The Cleveland Institute of Art present:

AIDS Memorial Quilt Display, November 30-December 8, 2009 from 8am-9pm daily at MetroHealth Medical Center, Rammelkamp Atrium, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, 44109.

Documentary Film Screening "Common Threads: Stories from the Quilt" Tuesday, December 1, 2009 from 12pm-1:30pm MetroHealth Medical Center, Scott Auditorium.

Closing AIDS Memorial Quilt Reception w/ local quilt panels displayed: Tuesday, December 8, 2009 from 5:30pm-7:30pm MetroHealth Medical Center, Rammelkamp Atrium.