The U.S. Federal Trade Commission’s most recent statistics show that nearly 7,000 Ohioans become victims of identity theft each year. This growing crime can be particularly insidious because the victim often isn’t aware that they’ve been had until long after it happens. It can take many months and, often, thousands of dollars to recover one’s good name, while the identity thief has moved on to new victims. Fortunately, there is a new way for Ohioans to protect themselves against this rising tide of financial crime.

An old saying goes: “there’s only one pretty baby in the world, but every mother has it.” As the father of twins, I would modify that a bit, but it does remind us of our mothers’ devotion to us even before we are born, even if most of us are not very pretty at first.

Mother’s Day is a time when we can show our appreciation for Mom, spend some time, and maybe repay a little of the kindness that she’s shown us over the years. In addition to the card or gift you may have planned for your mother, I would like to suggest a free resource from the Treasurer’s office that could benefit your family for years to come.

Save the Dream Across Ohio Activities Part of Law Day Celebration

COLUMBUS – In recognition of Law Day, state officials have announced new foreclosure legal training dates and are reminding attorneys of the opportunity to serve pro bono to assist homeowners facing foreclosure as part of Ohio’s Save the Dream foreclosure prevention effort, which in the past month has gained recognition as a national leader in addressing the problem.

As sometimes happens when Washington tries to do something that is well-intended, there are unexpected, and unwanted, consequences.

Once such instance is now showing up in connection with the rebate checks now going out. Most of this first round of economic stimulus package payments is being directly deposited into accounts, although I did talk yesterday to a woman here in Austin whose paper check arrived in her mailbox on Monday.