Wednesday, 10 August 2016 07:47

Goodyear 10k Sold Out

This weekend's Goodyear 10k -- part of the Akron Marathon race series -- is now sold out with the only slots available for the half-marathon. More than 1,500 runners are taking part in the event Saturday that starts at Goodyear's world headquarters.

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(Akron Marathon) The Akron Children's Hospital Akron Marathon Race Series has announced that the 2016 Goodyear 10k, which features 1,500 runners, is officially sold out. The race begins at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 13, at The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company's global headquarters at 200 Innovation Way in Akron.

While registration for both the 10k and Half Marathon closed today (Aug. 9), the Akron Marathon will offer additional registration for the Half Marathon at packet pick-up based on a limited basis. Packet pick-up will be from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, August 12 at the John S. Knight Center.

"We couldn't be happier with the amount of excitement surrounding the race series," said Anne Bitong, Akron Marathon president/executive director. "Coming off a successful series kick-off in June with our 8k & 1 Mile races, the number of participants for this race affirms the event's popularity and we are just thrilled to continue the momentum into this weekend's race."

The Goodyear Half Marathon & 10k course will travel past Goodyear's headquarters and includes a lap around the track at the tiremaker's restricted-access Akron Proving Grounds.

The top three overall men/women as well as top three masters men/women will receive awards in both the half marathon and 10k events. Awards will also be given to the top three men/women in each age group. The top male and female in the half marathon, as well as the top male and female in the 10k, will each receive a Goodyear Blimp ride for two and a $50 gift certificate to local Goodyear retail stores.

After the race, runners and spectators can enjoy the Finisher Festival that includes a live band, Swenson's Food Truck, Eddies Famous Cheesesteaks, ice cream and more.

Participants in the Half Marathon will receive a short sleeve premium tech shirt, medal, commemorative hat and food festival tickets. Participants in the 10k will receive a short sleeve premium tech shirt, medal and food festival tickets.

The remaining 2016 race dates are as follows: August 13 (Goodyear Half Marathon & 10k) and September 24 (FirstEnergy Akron Marathon, Half Marathon, Team Relay). The dates coordinate with a typical training schedule to help runners reach bigger goals and longer distances. Registration for Akron Marathon Race Series events is available at AkronMarathon.org.

Monday, 08 August 2016 06:15

HOF Game Scrubbed Over Paint Job

If you were looking to kick off the NFL season last night, you weren't going to find in Canton. The NFL was forced to cancel Sunday night's Hall of Fame game due to poor field conditions.

The main problem was reportedly the wrong type of paint used to paint logos on the field; it quickly became more like a glob of tar. Players also noted parts of the field were "like cement" and didn't have the proper shock-absorbing layer of rubber chips to help cushion hits to the ground, a must for tackle football on artificial turf.

Fans immediately began lining up at customer service tents for refunds.

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(National Football League) The official return of pro football will have to wait another four days. The NFL canceled Sunday night's Hall of Fame game because of poor field conditions. The Green Bay Packers and Indianapolis Colts are headed back home.

HOF DavidBaker"I was notified at about 5:30 that there was a problem at midfield and in the end zones with some of the painting that it was kind of congealing and rubberized, which meant players might slip on it," Pro Football Hall of Fame president David Baker (seen at left, after making the cancellation announcement)  told NFL Media's Steve Wyche. "The folks with the field tried to remediate that by dropping some other pellets but after talking to the coaches and staff for both the Packers and the Colts, there was a concern they might be able to remediate it but they would have to do something underneath the surface.

"We think we could make it playable, that it might be playable now but if there is any concern, anything in the minds of players we want to err on the side of player safety. This is the Pro Football Hall of Fame. You've heard me many, many times talk about our values of commitment, integrity, courage, respect, and excellence. If we don't have that integrity to respect our players and respect their safety, then we shouldn't be doing this job. It was a difficult decision to make. ... But in some respects, it was an easy, ethical decision.

"When the field was put down -- this was a brand-new field that had only been used one year at the Superdome in New Orleans -- when it came here, it passed the safety tests. This morning when the cover was taken off, it passed the safety tests then. But I think the concerns were really about the painting and the rubberized surface."

The NFL and NFLPA issued the following statement:

"Due to safety concerns with the condition of the playing surface in Canton, tonight's game between the Indianapolis Colts and Green Bay Packers has been cancelled. We are very disappointed for our fans, but player safety is our primary concern, and as a result, we could not play an NFL game on this field tonight."

The embarrassing news casts a pall on an otherwise great weekend. Sunday's game wasn't going to be much of a regular season preview, although it provides a chance for end-of-the-roster plays to impress coaches and make the team. Undrafted free agent Joe Callahan was expected to start at quarterback for the Packers. Starters usually play a series or two at most in the first preseason game.

"It sucks, but the conditions of the field weren't safe for any player on either roster," veteran Colts linebacker D'Qwell Jackson told NFL Media columnist Michael Silver.

More than anything, this is a huge letdown for the crowd in Ohio. This weekend in Canton proved to be a pilgrimage for Packers fans and now it has been cut short.

Saturday, 06 August 2016 08:20

Davis Gives Thanks, Watson Charged

Patrolman Ted Davis is thanking his extended Cuyahoga Falls family -- and beyond -- for their love and support as he recovers from serious injuries suffered in a July 23rd crash involving a man who threatened to kill police.

Davis required surgery for internal injuries, and faces a long road to recovery but issues the thank-you via the Cuyahoga Falls PD Facebook page.

Police in Cuyahoga Falls filing charges -- including attempted murder -- against 46-year old Donald Watson, Jr. of Akron; more charges may be coming, including in Akron where he reportedly set his house on fire as part of a wild episode where he also called Cuyahoga Falls 9-1-1 threatening to kill police officers. Watson also faces felony assault and fleeing charges for the incident. Davis had blocked a highway to try and stop Watson after police say he rammed three vehicles in the police lot.
 
From Cuyahoga Falls PD Facebook:

I think I have caught my breath and finally have my emotions in order. There are so many people to thank and talk about please forgive me if I forget anyone.

I have either lived or worked in Cuyahoga Falls my entire life. I can't think of a better city to be a part of. The reaction of the residents of this city has been absolutely overwhelming. I truly appreciate all the letters, cards, and phone calls. My wife and I read every single card and treasured everyone of them. I am proud to be a police officer in this great city. I would also like to thank you for supporting the police department in general. I know my fellow officers and I appreciate the blue lights, the police banners, and the letters that are sent to us daily. Thank you!!

I would like to thank Mayor Don Walters. Mayor Walters made several trips to the hospital not only to check on me but my family as well. Mayor Walters thank you not only for the support you have shown me, but the support you show everyday to the police officers of this city.

Thanks to city council and the letters sent to me. Your prayers and get well wishes mean the world.

To Chief Jack Davis and his wife, I don't think I can ever thank you enough for everything you have done for me and more importantly for my family. On behalf of my family a million thank-you's will never be enough but again thank you.

This is where it gets hard because I don't want to forget anyone, my fellow officers working that night: Tom, Pat, Joey, Joe, Keith, Kayla, Dominic, Brett, John. Thank you for being there for me. I am proud to work with all of you.

To all my fellow officers who took time to come and see me and just say hi and sit there if only for five minutes, thank you. I can't forget all our dispatchers as well. Thank you for your Saturday morning visit. Thanks for just being there for me and my family. A very special thank you to Tom Savage, Rueben Miller, Trevor Ford, the FOP and the OPBA.

And yes even though they did cut 2 Under Armour shirts, thank you to the CFFD. Your response that night and your visits to the hospital mean a lot. Chief Moledor thanks for all your support.

Thanks to all the police officers of other agencies that wrote, stopped by or called.

To the doctors, nurses, and staff of Akron City Hospital and The Rehab Center, there is no way to list all of you. I will forever be thankful for not only the care given me but the support showed to my family and the Cuyahoga Falls Police Department.

To Fr. Jared and St. Joseph School, Northminster Preschool, Dewitt School, the YMCA, WQMX, WONE, WAKR Radio Stations, Giant Eagle, The Mancave, Falls Catholic Credit Union, The Greater Akron Basketball Officials Association, Chik-Fil-A, Immaculate Heart of Mary, a very special thank you to Zach Myers and all the gift certificates from local businesses. I know I'm forgetting people and I'm truly sorry but my family and I will forever be in your debt. I really wish I could remember and name you all.

To all of my (our) friends that stopped by. There is no way to list all of you. If you took the boys for us, just sat there and watched me sleep, brought food, talked, prayed, laughed, cried, thank you. I really would like to list all of you but it would be impossible. Just know that Chrissy and I have the best friends in the world, thank you and we love all of you.

To my parents, thank you not only for all you have done since the accident but thank you for EVERYTHING. You have always been there not only for me but for Chrissy and the boys as well. We will never be able to repay all the love and support. Thank you for setting the example of how to be great parents. Chrissy, the boys, and I love you!

To my brother and sisters. I can't think of a time you guys weren't there for me. All of you spent countless hours at my bedside not only looking over me but helping out Chrissy and taking care of the boys.

Thank you to my nieces and nephews for sneaking in polar pops and other good food and helping the time go faster. 

To my in laws, thank you for everything that you do for us. Chrissy and I truly appreciate everything you do for us and everything you do for the boys.

To my wife, I don't even know where to start. The strength, courage and love you have shown the past 2 weeks have blown me away. I know being a police officers wife is not the easiest thing to be but I thank you for your love, strength, and support. I wouldn't make it through this without you. I love you!

To my boys, you are my inspiration to get better. I know it has been a really tough two weeks for both of you and this isn't how we planned the end of summer but we will get through this. Mom and I are proud of both of you and love you very much.

Again on behalf of my wife and my two boys, thank you all for your prayers, love and support. I look forward to coming back to work as soon as possible.

Ptl. T. Davis #4713

Thursday, 04 August 2016 05:42

LaTourette Dead of Pancreatic Cancer

Longtime northeast Ohio Congressman Steve LaTourette is dead at the age of 62 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was a native of Cleveland but rose to the public eye as the Prosecuting Attorney in Lake County who sent Jeffrey Lundgren to Death Row for the Kirtland Cult Killings.

The former nine-term member of Congress was respected for his even-handed personality and ability to reach across the aisle to work with both Republicans and Democrats as well as what the Plain Dealer called an "irreverant brand of humor." LaTourette stepped down from the Washington job, citing frustrations with gridlock in Congress that made it hard to effectively govern.
 
His district included the northern suburbs in Summit County as well as a wide swath through Portage County as well as Geauga, Lake and Ashtabula Counties into Cleveland's east suburbs.

Reaction from his former colleagues was swift and complimentary:

Senator Rob Portman: "Steve LaTourette was known for his bipartisanship and his ability to get things done for Ohio. He was a proud son of Cleveland, a tough prosecutor, and an effective legislator who could find common ground with just about anyone. But I will miss him most of all as a good friend with a great sense of humor. Jane and I send our condolences to the entire LaTourette family, including his wife Jennifer and his six children: Ohio State Rep. Sarah LaTourette, along with Amy, Clare, Sam, Emerson and Henry. We are praying for them during this difficult time.”

Senator Sherrod Brown: “Steve LaTourette was a good man who was always willing to reach across the aisle to do right by the working men and women of northeast Ohio. Connie and I send our deepest sympathies to his family as they mourn his loss.”

Congressman Tim Ryan: "Steve LaTourette was an amazing man, a great father and an astute and principled politician. I am so sad to hear about his passing. Andrea and I extend our deepest sympathies to his amazing wife Jennifer and his children.Steve was an absolute joy to be around. You knew in every encounter with him you would either laugh, sometimes to the point of tears, or learn something; usually it was both. He always looked out for his friends, regardless of what political party they belonged -- he was very old school in that way. He taught me a lot in my early years in Congress. I hope we can all learn from his legacy and career, which was grounded in respect for all, especially those who may disagree. He was committed to making positive change in our community and across our country. Steve's voice will be sorely missed in our political discourse. Rest in peace my friend. You were one of a kind."

Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine: "Fran and I were saddened to learn of the death of our friend, former Ohio Congressman Steve LaTourette. Steve was an incredibly effective Congressman who not only helped those in his district, but throughout all of Northeast Ohio. He was a real workhorse who understood his district and worked hand in hand with local leaders to bring jobs to the area. "Steve was also respected by members of both parties and worked with legislators from both sides of the aisle to get things done. "Fran and I will miss our friend. We extend our condolences to his wife, Jennifer, and his children Sarah, Clare, Amy, Sam, Emerson and Henry."

Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted: “Steve LaTourette was a dedicated public servant who cared more about getting things done than he did the political leanings of his colleagues. That willingness to work across party lines to achieve results for those he served is the legacy he leaves behind. "His family is in our thoughts and prayers."

 

Tuesday, 02 August 2016 11:43

Time For HOF Wine

Just in time for the Hall of Fame Game and the hordes of fans paying tribute to the Packers, the Colts, Brett Favre, Marvin Harrison, Tony Dungy, Kevin Greene, Orlando Pace, Eddie DeBartolo, Kenny Stabler and Dick Stanfel.

Canton-based Gervasi Vinyard has a limited edition taste of football -- complete with "bold layers of black currant, black cherries and notes of plum. Although a diehard Browns fan will note the "notes of plum" have nothing to do with Milt Plum, who's backup in Cleveland was Hall of Famer Len Dawson before Plum moved on to the Detroit Lions, Los Angels Rams and finally the New York Giants where he was the backup for Hall of Famer Fran Tarkenton before retiring from the game at the end of the 1969 season.

The local Cabernet Sauvignon is called "Excellence" is available at the Gervasi Vinyard stores for $38.50 a bottle.


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ExcellenceWine(Gervasi Vinyards) Gervasi Vineyard has united with the Pro Football Hall of Fame with to produce the first co-branded wine debuting the Hall's iconic logo. The specially labeled wine, a Limited Edition label was debuted on August 1 at Gervasi Vineyard.

The 2016 Limited Edition wine is a Cabernet Sauvignon, full bodied with bold layers of black currant, black cherries and notes of plum. As with all wines at Gervasi Vineyard, the wine is given a special name to fit its "personality". For this first edition, the wine has been titled "Excellence".

"Partnering with the Pro Football Hall of Fame for our first co-branded label wine is incredibly exciting for us. Joining Canton's iconic Pro Football Hall of Fame with Canton's own Gervasi Vineyard is a perfect fit," said Gervasi's General Manager, Scott Swaldo. "We are honored to be selected to provide the Hall with this wonderful wine aptly named 'Excellence', as we both celebrate 'Excellence' as a core value of our organizations."

The 2016 Limited Edition Pro Football Hall of Fame wine will be available for purchase at Gervasi Vineyard at The Marketplace boutique gift shop, and The Crush House Wine Bar & Eatery, priced at $38.50 per bottle (take home rate). Gervasi Vineyard features award-winning wines, offering 27 varietals ranging from a dry Cabernet Sauvignon to a sweet Vidal Blanc Ice Wine.

Winemaker, Andrew Codispoti said, "This partnership is a pinnacle experience, a celebratory juncture in our winemaking journey. It's a champagne moment bubbling with excitement. We are energized by this chapter of our legacy."

Monday, 01 August 2016 05:52

Pry Mourned

Reaction to the passing of Summit County Executive Russ Pry was quick on Sunday; Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan said he would "...miss his leadership and his ability to bring people together" and credited Pry's personality to bring people together.

Congressman Tim Ryan calls Pry "...first and foremost...a dear friend, a thoughtful, compassionate human being who always put the good of the people ahead of politics."

Senator Sherrod Brown noted Pry's loss is "...will be felt by all those whose lives were made better by his service to his community.”

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Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan: “I’ve lost a great friend much too early. We will all miss his leadership and his ability to bring people together. Russ had an uncanny knack for empathizing and identifying with all people, regardless of their age, race, gender, orientation or creed, making him well-loved by all. Personally, I will miss his friendship, his quick wit and his invaluable advice.”

U.S. Congressman Tim Ryan: "Russ first and foremost was a dear friend, a thoughtful, compassionate human being who always put the good of the people ahead of politics.

I have never seen a better leader than Russ Pry, who made local government work efficiently and effectively for the people he represented. He had no ego and always brought people together to make lives better for ordinary people.There is a huge hole in Summit County today and a huge hole in my heart as well--one that can never be filled. But we can all learn from how Russ conducted himself; always with humility, always responsibly and, for those of us in public life, always making sure government was creating opportunity for those who were looking to get ahead in life.Andrea and I extend our deepest sympathies to Russ' family and his amazing group of friends and coworkers who know better than anyone the amazing gifts that Russ brought to the people of Summit County.He was a friend, a leader, a generous and brilliant public servant lost too soon."

U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown: “Connie and I are saddened to hear of Russ’s passing and offer our deepest sympathies to his family and the Summit County community. His loss will be felt by all those whose lives were made better by his service to his community.”

Ohio Democratic Party Chairman David Pepper: “Ohio Democrats’ hearts are heavy today as we mourn the passing of our friend, Summit County Executive Russ Pry. Russ loved the people of Summit County and served them with an open heart and generous spirit, always fighting for progressive values. He was a great champion for Summit County Democrats, and he helped nurture the current generation of Democratic leaders. Our thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family.”

Sunday, 31 July 2016 18:07

Pry Dead At 58

Funeral and memorial arrangements will be announced later following the passing today of Summit County Executive Russ Pry.

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(Summit County Executive) Summit County Executive Russ Pry passed away peacefully today at the age of 58.  Russ was diagnosed with colon cancer in June and has been recovering since surgery on June 14th.  Unfortunately, a series of setbacks in his recovery became too much for him to overcome and he passed away today shortly after 5pm.

Russ will be remembered as a leader who helped restore stability in County government, led the County through the Great Recession, cared and honored the men and women who served in the military, created and kept jobs in Summit County for thousands of people, and made all of us think more about the children and less fortunate in Summit County.  He was a leader that came along at the right time, and will be sorely missed by this community.

Pursuant to the Summit County Charter, County Council President, Ilene Shapiro, will be sworn in immediately as interim County Executive until such time as the Central Committee of the Summit County Democratic Party meets to appoint a person to serve as Executive for the balance of Russ’s term, which expires on December 31, 2016.

At this time, the Executive’s Office does not intend to make any further comment.  Details regarding a memorial service and celebration of Russ’s life will be announced in the near future.

 

The United Way of Summit County is taking a controversial change in direction.

In a letter to high-level supporters, the social service agency is putting in place "strategic changes" that would curb designation of funds to so-called third party beneficiaries -- those outside the agency's scope and mission -- in order to keep resources focused on education, income and health. Starting in 2018, big donors will have a percentage of their directed donations pushed to those meeting the United Way's goals.

Chairman James Merklin wrote that major donors will notice changes starting in 2018, when United Way to deduct a percentage or a max of $5,000 annually from directed donations that don't meet United Way's mission. Donations going directly to United Way aren't affected and so far this covers just big donors. Merklin says third-party donations have nearly doubled in recent years and now make up 60% of United Way's designated donations and much of that money actually leaves Summit County.

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(United Way of Summit County) United Way of Summit County is accomplishing great things. I’ve seen it firsthand in the work done by our dedicated volunteers to improve education, income and health throughout our community.

Over just the past few months, hundreds of people from across the county have taken part in United Way’s engagement events. Our volunteers distributed thousands of books to Akron Public School students through our Page It Forward Book Drive. They gave the too often neglected neighborhood of University Park a makeover as part of the Neighborhood Reborn project. On a hot Saturday in June, more than 200 volunteers built a brand new playground in an at-risk neighborhood in just six hours.

That so many people are willing to devote so much of their time and effort to improve this city is a testament to the love we Akronites have for our hometown. Moreover, it is an affirmation of the fundamental principle behind United Way’s mission – that a community thrives when members of that community invest their talent, their resources and their energy within it. 

Ultimately, volunteers are the engine that drives the work of United Way. I have the honor of serving as chair of United Way’s board of directors – 48 men and women who donate their time and effort to serve the common good. As the volunteer leaders of this nearly 100-year-old institution, we feel a tremendous responsibility to ensure that it can effectively carry out its mission to improve education, income and health for every child and every family here in Akron. 

Over the past year, we at United Way have undertaken extensive efforts to refocus and strengthen our impact in the community. This has required us to reexamine how United Way’s organizational structures and practices are aligned with that mission. Through our analysis, we have identified obstacles we must overcome in order to best serve Akron and all of Summit County. 

Most notably, in recent years, designated donations – that is, donations made through United Way but earmarked for a third-party nonprofit organization – have nearly doubled. For us on the  United Way board, this is of great concern because, too often, these donations do not drive the mission of our organization. Today, 60 percent of designated donations are made outside of United Way’s local mission and impact areas of education, income and health. Of even greater concern, half of all designated donations leave Summit County.

The end result is that, while United Way’s revenue has remained constant in recent years, we have had to make do with fewer funds to invest in impact initiatives within the community. Increasingly, it seems, many have come to see United Way as a go-between for charitable giving, not an agent for change in Greater Akron. 

That we would like to change this perception does not in any way diminish the generosity of our donors. That so many people have given regularly to – and through – United Way speaks to the extraordinary spirit of philanthropy that exists in this community. Rather, we want to demonstrate the value United Way brings to the table. We want to reassure our donors that the best way to achieve transformational change in Greater Akron is by investing directly in the work of United Way.

Over the coming months, we will begin to implement new strategies aimed at increasing the share of funds that we are able to invest in our local impact efforts. To that end, the United Way board of directors has put into place policies to curb the designation of donations to causes outside of our mission. 

Much more importantly, however, we are making a firm commitment to all of our current and future donors. We will pinpoint innovative, effective solutions to problems throughout our community. If you give to United Way, we will ensure that your donation is leveraged for maximum impact and return on investment. 

We can make that promise because United Way counts on the support of some of the most dedicated and talented individuals in Akron. From the volunteers who make our engagement events possible, to the volunteers who guide us as an organization, we all have a stake in the continued health and success of this community, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that Summit County is a place full of promise and prosperity for everyone. 

United Way is accomplishing great things, and the future is incredibly bright. I hope you will join us as we work to make our community a better place to live, work and raise our families. Changes to United Way of Summit County Donor Choice Policy for Tocqueville Society Members

2016 Campaign

These policies will take effect on July 31, 2016:

- Though it is preferred that designations be made at the time of a pledge, all 2016 campaign designations must be made by January 31, 2017. Beginning on February 1, 2017, all designations must be made at the time of a pledge.

2017 Campaign These policies will take effect on April 1, 2017

Designations must be made at the time of a pledge. All new Tocqueville gifts may only be designated to:

-Summit County direct service 501(c)3 organizations focused on Education, Income and Health, or Direct service 501(c)3 organizations focused on Education, Income and Health that have been approved by another United Way.

2018 Campaign tThese policies will take effect on April 1, 2018:

- A cost assessment of 13.4 percent – up to a maximum of $5,000 per year – will be deducted from all designated donations. Donations allocated directly to United Way of Summit County will not be subject to this cost assessment. 

All designations may only be made to: 

- Summit County direct service 501(c)3 organizations focused on Education, Income and Health, or Direct service 501(c)3 organizations focused on Education, Income and Health that have been approved by another United Way. 

Wednesday, 27 July 2016 08:40

Goodyear Released Q2, First Half Numbers

Goodyear is still rocking it with their accountants. Operating margins were above 11 percent across the board, the company's CEO Richard Kramer reports. Second quarter sales were down, blamed partly on on events in Venezuela and sale of it's North American motorcycle tire business.

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(Goodyear Tire and Rubber) The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company today reported results for the second quarter and first half of 2016. 

"We delivered higher volumes and solid earnings in the quarter, achieving operating margins above 11 percent in all three business units," said Richard J. Kramer, chairman and chief executive officer. "Industry fundamentals remain favorable across many of our key markets and demand for our premium, high­value­added tires is strong. Our focus remains on the disciplined execution of our strategy and delivering on our financial targets."

Goodyear's second quarter 2016 sales were $3.9 billion, down from $4.2 billion a year ago, with the decrease largely attributable to the deconsolidation of the company's subsidiary in Venezuela, the sale of the North American motorcycle tire business and unfavorable currency translation.

Tire unit volumes totaled 41.5 million, up 2 percent from 2015, driven by growth in the Asia Pacific and Europe, Middle East and Africa regions. Replacement tire shipments were up 4 percent. Original equipment unit volume was down 4 percent.

Goodyear's second quarter 2016 net income was $202 million (75 cents per share), up from $192 million (70 cents per share) in the year­ago quarter. The improvement was primarily due to a decrease in income tax expense. Excluding certain significant items, second quarter 2016 adjusted
net income was $314 million ($1.16 per share), up from $229 million (84 cents per share) in 2015. 

Per share amounts are diluted.

The company reported second quarter segment operating income of $531 million in 2016, down from $550 million a year ago. Segment operating income in 2016 was negatively impacted by a $24 million out­of­period adjustment primarily attributable to 2012 and related to the elimination of
intracompany profit in the Americas region. This amount is included as a significant item in adjusted net income. The decrease in segment operating income also reflects a $36 million reduction resulting from the deconsolidation of Venezuela partially offset by cost reduction actions. Core segment operating income, which excludes Venezuela, was $514 million in the year­ago quarter.

Year to Date Results

Goodyear's sales for the first six months of 2016 were $7.6 billion, down 8 percent from the 2015 period, reflecting unfavorable foreign currency translation of $225 million and the deconsolidation of Venezuela.

Tire unit volumes totaled 83.0 million, up 2 percent from 2015, driven by growth in the Asia Pacific region, primarily in Japan and China. Replacement tire shipments were up 3 percent. Original equipment unit volume was down 1 percent. Excluding the impact of the deconsolidation of Venezuela, unit volumes increased 3 percent. 

Goodyear's year­-to-­date net income of $386 million ($1.43 per share) is down from $416 million ($1.52 per share) in 2015's first half. The decrease was due to a one­time gain of $155 million ($99 million after­tax) on the recognition of deferred royalty income in 2015. All per share amounts are diluted. 

The company reported first half segment operating income of $950 million in 2016, up from $938 million a year ago. The increase was driven by favorable price/mix net of raw materials and the impact of higher volume. These improvements were partially offset by the deconsolidation of Venezuela. Core segment operating income, which excludes Venezuela, was $880 million in the 2015 first half.

Tuesday, 26 July 2016 18:03

Wayne Crash Claims County's 7th Victim

For the fifth time this year, Wayne County highways have claimed a life in a "failure to yield" case.

The State Highway Patrol reports Dale Schaffter, 82, of West Salem was killed after the minivan he was driving was involved in a traffic wreck with a pickup truck. Schaffter was wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident this morning on State Route 604 from Friendsville Road. The driver and a passenger in the pickup truck, which struck the minivan after Schaffter reportedly rolled through a stop sign. 

Alcohol was not a factor, OSHP reports. 

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(Ohio State Highway Patrol) The Wooster Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a two-vehicle traffic fatality on State Route 604 at Friendsville Road. The crash occurred approximately at 9:25 a.m.on July 26, 2016.

Dale C. Schaffter, 82, 7807 W. West Salem Road, West Salem, Ohio, was operating a 2000 Dodge Caravan minivan. Mr. Schaffter was wearing his safety belt at the time of the crash. Mr. Schaffter was transported to the Wooster Community Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Scott M. Frank, 34, 1365 S. Township Road 159, Tiffin, Ohio, was operating a 2013 Dodge Ram 1500 pick­up truck. Mr. Frank was wearing his safety belt at the time of the crash. He was transported to the Lodi Hospital by Canaan Township Squad with minor injuries. He was treated and released.

Scott A. Woods, 46, 9351 Township Road 18, Carey, Ohio, was the front seat passenger in Mr. Frank’s vehicle. Mr. Woods was transported to the Lodi Hospital for minor injuries. He was treated and released.

Mr. Schaffter was was northbound on Friendsville Road. Mr. Franks was eastbound on State Route 604. Mr. Schaffter was observed rolling through the stop sign and turning east onto State Route 604. Mr. Franks struck Mr. Schaffter’s vehicle on the driver’s side door. Both vehicles came to rest in the ditch line on the north­east corner of State Route 604 and Friendsville Road.

Canaan Township Fire and EMS responded to the scene. Also on scene, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Bear’s Towing and North End Garage. The crash remains under investigation.

Alcohol does not appear to be a factor. This is the seventh traffic fatality in Wayne County and the fifth traffic fatality involving a “failure to yield violation.”

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