ASHLAND - Friday, June 16, the Ohio State Auditor Jim Petro is coming to visit Carolyn Garris, the Buckeye Girls State Auditor, and her statff. He will be arriving at 3:00 PM and the office staff will be meeting with him at the Eagle’s Nest. There are eight members of Garris’ staff.

Petro is the 29th Ohio Auditor of State, and he is currently serving his second term. His administration has been able to increase the audit efficiency by 74%, identify 16 million dollars in Medicaid fraud, and increase professional auditing standards.

The Auditor of State’s job entails duties such as: auditing all of the public offices in the State of Ohio, writing more than 11 million checks needed for the payroll, distributing state revenues, keeping inventory and all deed records belonging to property owned by the state, etc.

The very enthusiastic City of Garfield has been busy developing their businesses and city regulations. Some very creative minds set up a radio station with the coolest tunes around, so stop on by to Garfield City and join with their hoppin’ disc jockies, Jazzin’ Jen and Hip Hop Betsy Bop. If you choose not to check out this crazy station, you’ll be missing out on more than a few good tunes’ you will also miss a wonderful opportunity to make great friendships with all of the smiling girls in Garfield City. So if you happen to be in the neighborhood, check out Garfield City’s radio station or tune in to KJGB mix 107.

From the Editor: Lorna stopped me in the hall yesterday evening. She had seen the article about her and thought it was wonderful. Except…she’s 11 months old, not 11 years old. And you know how women are about their ages. So I told her I’d print a correction in today’s paper. So don’t tell her she’s looking good for her age. Okay?

The date, May 22 of 2000. A drunken driver staggers up the highway, a corvette lay totaled alongside the road, a cracked and red-stained windshield, ambulances, flashing lights, statements, and citations..far from "a terrific" scene to stumble upon. Despite the contradiction of character his name suggests, Tom Terrific swears that he was only drunk; that his newly found friend was driving; it wasn’t he who wrecked the automobile; honest. The prosecuting attorney had a few things to say about that. Not only was the blood found on the drivers’ side of the windshield an identical match to Mr. Terrific’s type, the hesitation and indecisiveness displayed in his answers led one to believe that maybe, just maybe, the truth was being stretched by the defense team.

Despite his negotiating nature, the jury found Mr. Tom Terrific guilty of negligence to control an automobile. He was sentenced to 6 months in jail, a $1000 fine and payment of court costs, alcohol counseling and license suspension. Watch those highways; you never know what is over the next hill. - Michelle-Dawn Gregg, Cary City

Setting goals, planning for the future, maintaining GPS’s, arranging the best schedule…all "short term" ideals we frequently ponder. Still, we feel that enduring four years of high school education is a long term to under go. Even with the diploma in our hands, we comment on the reality that it’s finally over. But the joy that it does bring to our lives is of a wordless description. The highlights of our successes, achieving those long-aspired objectives. Wee, imagine that objective, as mentioned earlier, to be a 12 year race; full of hurdles and lane restrictions. A race where "second winds" are sparse and far between. The winner is determined by not stopwatches, but peoples’ opinions and assumptions. The victor in this certain 12-year-course was none other than Mr. Bob Taft. His prize you ask? The honorable title of Governor for the glorious State of Ohio.

Political races aren’t the only daily clashed in which this gentleman engages. His life is a fast-paced and duty-oriented combination involving appointment of over 600 state officials, correspondence with fellow governors, meetings and presentations, and the tutoring of one very special 4th grader.

After all the cameras flashed, Mr. Taft gave a short address to the Girls State delegation regarding the great honor we have all received in being chosen to attend BGS and how our experiences here will undoubtedly influence our lives for years to come. In response to the questions posted by the BGS State Officials, Mr. Taft turned his attention to his proposed "Ohio Reads" program; forecasted a proposal of $10 billion dollars collectively to Ohio schools within a period of 12 years. Mr. Taft stands as a diligent executor of upgraded educational policies. In light of a question presented by the audience, Mr. Taft agreed that strides currently being made by the sate for the sake of education seem small. But in reality, re reminded us that the planning involved in these strides is worth having hope in and supporting.

This man obviously has a passion to prepare the future for expansion of their own abilities. He wnet on to say that he intended to run for a second term for governor in the 2002 election. Assuredly, he’ll be receiving the support of many Girls Staters here this week.

- Michelle-Dawn Gregg, Cary City

The walls of the Buckeye Girls State House of Representatives and Senate have been filled with fiery discussions and heated debate. The members are living up to their duties as they enthusiastically bring up the pros and cons of bills. In the House of Representatives, Representative Olds had submitted a bill requiring surveillance cameras in daycare centers and thorough background checks on citizens seeking free daycare. The bill was hotly debated, especially after an amendment adding a statewide sales tax to fund daycare centers was attached to the bill. The majority of Federalists (the minority party) opposed the bill, saying there wasn’t enough evidence that surveillance cameras were needed, and that the amendment shouldn’t be added since it wasn’t related to the bill itself. The supporters of the bill argued that surveillance cameras would prevent inadequate care of children, but no vote was reached before the session ended.

In the Senate, a bill dealing with preservation of historical landmarks and homes was up for passage. The sponsors of the bill sought to allow property owners to "have their {historical} homes relocated as a form of just compensation during economic development." An amendment was added by the Federalists trying to pass the bill, stating that the property owners would have to agree on the new location of their homes. Debate ensued when they point was addressed that any home owner forced to relocate would disapprove of any new location. On a side note, it was decided that debate on a bill would be limited to fifteen minutes and debate on an amendment to a bill would be limited to five minutes. From the busy activities of the Buckeye Girls State Congress, it is clear that it will be a successful tribute to the overall welfare of Buckeye Girls State.

- No name, no city

Throughout all of your general assemblies, we have danced, sang along, and listened to the beautiful melodies of the Buckeye Girls State Band. The girls have participated in band practice every afternoon before a performance. Tunes include: "God Bless America", "The Star Spangled Banner", and "Hail to the Chief".

The BGS band likes to have some fun as well by playing songs like "Hang on Sloopy", "Devil in a Blue Dress", "Louie, Louie" and other fun songs.

Band members can be recognized by the light blue band ribbons pinned on their nametags. If you see a band member, stop and thank them for their hard work.

- Heidi Gerlosky, Gage City

Did you know that "Hang on Sloopy" was named the state rock song for the State of Ohio by our State Congress?

Do we have anymore green construction paper? Where are the scissors? Every citizen of Gish has heard these questions and many more. Vigoursly decorating during every minute of free time, Gish City rapidly developed. Complete with a life size park, numerous restaurants, firehouse, aquarium and photography studio, Gish is a city full of ambition and dreams. Hollywood is the theme as Sunset Blvd travels through Gish passing Mexican Jumping Bean, Sunset Beach and Planet Hollywood.

At night, Gish is known for its display of stars. In fact, its been said that its better than the northern lights. To see this city full of wonder just step off the trolley on the fifth floor of Clark Hall and look for the palm trees.

- Sarah Yonkey, Gish City

On June 15, 2000, Erin Hearndon, the treasurer of Oakley City was found hung in the gym. Foul play is suspected and the Sheriff sees Erin Seagraves as the main culprit. There will be an autosopy of the body to see if poison was administered before death. If you know anything about this "murder," please contact the Shimek County Sheriff.

- Oakley City

Having a rough day? Need somewhere to relax? Come visit the beach town resort in Oakley City. Not only do we have an all inclusive beach, complete with lifeguards and dolphins. We also have many special interest shops. The Massage Parlor or the Free Spirits Herbal Shop are both great places to come and clear your mind after a day of hard work here at Girls State. The bright atmosphere and creative community of Oakley welcome you. So, whatever your trouble, forget about it and catch the O-Wave.

- Randi Weaver, Oakley City

The citizens of Zeller City were shocked as they returned from lunch on Thursday, June 15. The body of Mr. Woof, who resided at 317 East Main Street, Zeller City, was found hanging by a cord on the west side of town. Resident Carrie Bilinovich discovered Mr. Woof at 1:45 PM, on her way to Trump Slaughter House. Mr. Woof was a single, dirty blond hound dog, with deep brown eyes. He was an outstanding citizen, and a devoted friend to the whole community. Coroner Kristen Hesterman arrived at the scene at approximately 2:00 PM. She pronounced the cause of death suicidal hanging but suggested a full autopsy. Due to his status in the city of Zeller, foul play is not suspected. Hesterman stated, "It is a sad, sad day for Zeller City." Neighbot and friend, Carrie Bilinovich announced funeral arrangements are being made by Zeller Funeral Home. The funeral will be held Friday, June 16 at 4:00 PM, at Zeller City Pet Cemetery. Bilinovich stated, "I was devastated that such a thing could happen here in Zeller City." In honor of such a beloved friend and outstanding citizen, the Zeller City Council proclaimed June 16, Mr. Woof day. He will be missed by all Citizens of Zeller City.

- Georgia McRoberts, Zeller City

The song "Graduation" by Vitamin C is a perfect song for the end of BGS. A quote from "Graduation" is "As we go on, we remember, all the times we, had together." Even though BGS delegates are not graduating, we will still remember all the good and bad times that we had at Buckeye Girls State.

Most people would agree that all the girls at BGS are friendly and willing to make new friends. Because of this willingness, many friendships have been made, some for a lifetime and some for a week. Either way, these friendships will be memorable.

Its not only the willingness of the girls, but also the way we all had to work together on all levels of all branches. People are working together to make things happen. While learning the skills of teamwork and communication, delegates are working on lasting friendships.

Many delegates would give the same advice to future Buckeye Girls Staters: make new friends and have lots of fun, creating lasting memories.

- Jenna Wolp, Cook City

Don’t forget you need to close out your account today (Friday) by 7:00 PM.

Be sure and check the Lost and Found in the information office. They have raincoats, umbrellas, a jacket and so forth.

We want to say in front of everyone what a great job our BGS coordinator, Dean Bloxum, does for us. He keeps track of all the records, does the computer work, and, yep, coordinates. We appreciate all the things he does for us and we’re just sorry that we have to drive him crazy. So if you see this guy walking around campus (he has a staff ribbon on) please be sure and thank him, too. Thanks, Dean!!!

We would like to thank the members of the BGS Chorus and Band for their dedication and hard work this week. The talent that you brought to our groups is immeasurable. We have truly enjoyed working, performing, and "getting to know you." As you return to your high school music program, we wish you the best in your senior musical endeavors. Remember your musical experiences at BGS and share that enthusiasm for music with others.

Always,
Leslie Michel, Chorus Director
Brian "Bruce" Myers, Band Director

Thank you to all the girls that submitted articles for the Buckeye, poems for the poetry contest (don’t forget to look for them in the Roster) and the City Pages that were submitted. Also special thanks to the girls that helped by doing some of the typing for us. Good luck and best wishes to all.

- "The Buckeye" staff