Linda Meinelt: How to contact the Governor to encourage Mr. Boyce to appoint Dennis Leone to the STRS Board

Below is the text of a letter I am sending to the Governor asking that he encourage Treasurer Boyce to appoint Dennis Leone to the Bd. (since his term has expired and he is no longer eligible to run). If any of you are interested in doing the same, you can contact the Governor: Governor's Office Riffe Center, 30th Floor 77 S. High St. Columbus, OH 43215-6108 Fax: 614-466-3555 Online: www.governor.ohio.gov There is link to type in your message to him. As an STRS retiree, I am writing to ask that you please meet with Treasurer Boyce regarding his appointment to fill the vacancy on the STRS Board. Dr. Dennis Leone, who served as an elected member on the STRS Bd., is no longer eligible to run for a seat on the Board. He would be an excellent appointment to this position so that he could continue to serve the STRS constituents who have come to believe in and trust this honorable man. This position requires more than political or union training and support. I know the primary concern for appointment to this position is financial expertise and Dr. Leone certainly fits the bill. As Superintendent of Chillicothe Schools, Dr. Leone acquired much financial expertise while overseeing the budget for that district. He has been a financial watchdog for STRS since 2003 when he worked to disclose Board members and the Administrator's unethical activities. He has also been honored publicly by many experts for his understanding of budgetary issues. The ending of Dr. Leone's term on the Board has been upsetting for thousands of retirees who saw his tenure as a representation of honesty, leadership and concern for the ''little guy." He is not afraid to stand up for what he feels is right and to vote "no" despite pressure to do otherwise. Dr. Leone would be an outstanding addition to the Bd. bringing not only continued financial expertise but the ability and willingness to represent all STRS stakeholders which he had been doing as an elected member. Please encourage Treasurer Boyce to appoint Dr. Leone to the STRS Board. Thousands of retirees will be grateful to Treasurer Boyce and you for the appointment. Sincerely, Linda Meinelt Columbus, OH 43235 [8/13/09]