3 Important Ohio Election Issues

No matter which side of the fence you're on, I want to make you aware of 3 issues on the November 7th ballot in Ohio.

They are confusing, on purpose!!!

Here's what I received in an e-mail that explains the issues:

This November 7th, there will be two smoking-related issues on the ballot.

They could be confusing and/or misleading to voters.

Issue 4 is sponsored by a coalition of pro-smoking groups including the Ohio Licensed Beverage Association and the RJ Reynolds Tobacco Co. Their PAC goes by the name "Smoke Less Ohio." They propose a constitutional amendment that would ban smoking in a very few places, and would specifically exempt bars, bowling alleys and bingo halls. It would mandate smoking sections in all restaurants. It would also repeal all current municipalities smoking restriction legislation and bar any further local choice in the matter.

Issue 5 is sponsored by the American Cancer Society, the Lung Association and a coalition of health groups called "Smoke Free Ohio," including the Association of Ohio Health Commissioners. It restricts smoking in indoor public working environments and is meant to ensure the safety of people who work in the hospitality industry and to shield non-smokers from second-hand smoke. If passed, it would be a state law, not a constitutional amendment.

If people vote YES on both issues, Issue 4 will trump Issue 5, since it is a constitutional amendment that bans all smoking legislation. This is most likely what the Smoke Less Ohio folks want. It is imperative that you, your friends and neighbors know and understand the difference. This is the most important Public Health Issue to come down the pike in Ohio in the past three decades. For more information, please visit www.smokefreeohio.org or www.smokelessohio.com

Here is the third issue:

An initiative to expand gambling in Ohio will be on the November 7th ballot and is referred to as "Ohio Learn and Earn." This proposal has been purposefully misleading to our citizens from the beginning of their campaign! For instance, regarding Education Funding:

*There is no funding for grades K-12, where more than 70% of people receive their highest level of education.

*There is no funding during the first two years.

*During the next twelve years only graduates in the top 5% of their class may receive a grant of unknown value and only if they attend an Ohio college. That will automatically exclude a minimum of 95% of high school graduates.

*All of the costs are deducted from the money set aside for grants or scholarships to run the enormous statewide wide program.

Again, I am not making a political stance here. I just want you to understand that there are people, who are trying to get you to vote to their way of thinking through trickery. Learn what the proposals are really about and then vote responsibly.

Time To BLOW UP Your Adjustable Rate Mortgage?

Interest rates, although in the mid 6% range for many fixed rate mortgages, are on the rise and many homeowners, who have adjustable rate mortgages, may see increases in their forthcoming annual adjustments.

Consumers who foresee paying an interest rate that is significantly higher may want to consider refinancing to take advantage of the stability of a fixed rate mortgage.

This also may be a good time for borrowers who started out in an adjustable rate loan due to a poor credit score to transition into a fixed rate loan, if they can. Once a track record of making mortgage payments on time and in full has been established, this should have a positive effect on the credit score and there's a good chance the borrower may now qualify for a loan with a lower interest rate.

As with any decision to refinance, it is important to take the terms of the existing loan, the cost of the new loan and the borrower's long-term needs into consideration. A qualified mortgage professional should be able to help weigh out the options by providing a clear assessment of available mortgage programs that could be in the consumer's best interests. I recommend contacting mortgage consultant, Rick Pilger of Trustcorp Mortgage (513-772-2900). He'll review your situation, analyze several mortgage options and tell you if now is the best time to refinance or not.