RELEASE: Legislative Leaders Announce Creation of Redistricting Working Group

COLUMBUS—Ohio House Speaker Clifford A. Rosenberger (R-Clarksville) and Ohio Senate President Larry Obhof (R-Medina) today announced the creation of a working group to review and reform Ohio’s congressional redistricting process.

State Representative Kirk Schuring (R-Canton) and State Senator Matt Huffman (R-Lima) will co-chair the working group. Leaders of the House and Senate Democratic caucuses have been invited to participate, but at this point have yet to select a member for the panel.

The working group will review current law, explore possible reforms, gather public input and make recommendations to the legislative leaders by early December. The General Assembly would then consider whether to proceed with a redistricting reform resolution to place before Ohio voters. The deadline for considering such a proposal on the 2018 primary election ballot is February 7, however the General Assembly has the authority to put a proposal on the ballot at any date of its choosing.

“Redistricting has been an issue that several states, including Ohio, have been giving a closer look at in recent years,” said Speaker Rosenberger. “With the responsibility of redrawing congressional districts quickly approaching, we feel the issue deserves thorough review and consideration, with the goal of finding common-sense reforms that will lead to a redistricting process that all interested parties can agree on. I believe the creation of this panel, which I hope will be bipartisan, will yield an open exchange of ideas and input from varying perspectives.”

“I'm confident we can have a meaningful, bipartisan conversation about redistricting that can potentially show us a path forward to reform,” said Senate President Obhof. “I know that because we've been here before, particularly in the Senate, where we've been able to pass bipartisan congressional redistricting reforms twice in the last decade. I'm hopeful this dialogue will lead us again to a fair, constitutional process that we can take to Ohioans for consideration.”

The working group is expected to begin holding meetings as soon as this month. Specific details on times and locations will be forthcoming.

St. Rep. Schuring Releases Timeline for Pensions Legislation

Release:

COLUMBUS—State Representative Kirk Schuring (R-Canton), who serves as the chairman of the House Health and Aging Subcommittee on Retirement and Pensions, has announced that, in light of the pressing need to reform Ohio’s pension systems, the committee will be holding in-depth hearings throughout July, August and September.

“The pensions subcommittee will be working expeditiously to craft a reform plan that incorporates recommendations from the actuarial study,” said Chairman Schuring. “Millions of Ohioans will be impacted by the changes that will be included in the final legislation, which is why my colleagues and I in the House are working to not only move this bill in a timely manner but also ensure that the reforms precisely address the needs of the pension system.”

The Subcommittee on Retirement and Pensions tentatively will be holding hearings on the following dates:

Wednesday, August 1 at 1 p.m. (HPRS and OP&F)
Wednesday, August 8 at 1 p.m. (STRS)
Wednesday, August 15 at 1 p.m. (Senate sponsor testimony)
Tuesday, August 21 at 6 p.m. (proponent, opponent, interested party)
Wednesday, August 22 at 1 p.m. (proponent, opponent, interested party)
Tuesday, September 4 at 6 p.m. (proponent, opponent, interested party)
Wednesday, September 5 at 1 p.m. (proponent, opponent, interested party)
Wednesday, September 12 at 1 p.m. (if needed)
Tuesday, September 18 at 6 p.m. (if needed)

The target goal for pension legislation to be taken to the House floor is sometime in September.

Resolution Opposing Freedom of Choice Act Introduced in Ohio Senate

Release:

(Columbus, OH) Pro-Life State Senators Tim Grendell and Steve Buehrer introduced a resolution in the Ohio Senate today opposing the federal "Freedom of Choice Act" (FOCA).

The resolution (S.R.C. 6), which urges the President and Congress to oppose FOCA, states that:

"The Freedom of Choice Act is a radical attempt to enshrine abortion-on-demand into American law, to sweep aside existing laws that the majority of Americans support, such as requirements involving fully informed consent, parental involvement, and that licensed physicians perform abortions, and seeks to prevent states from enacting similar protective laws in the future."

"Ohio Right to Life strongly supports the resolution opposing the so-called "Freedom of Choice Act," said Mike Gonidakis, President of Ohio Right to Life. "FOCA would wipe out common-sense Ohio laws that require informed consent and parental consent before a minor's abortion, and would force taxpayers to pay for abortion on demand. FOCA is the most extreme pro-abortion legislation ever proposed," Gonidakis said.

In addition, S.C.R. 6 was co-sponsored by Pro-Life Senators Kevin Coughlin, Bob Gibbs, Tim Schaffer, Bill Seitz, Mark Wagoner, Kirk Schuring, and Keith Faber.

RELEASE: Schuring Advocates Right Kind of Change With McCain-Palin

Release:

CANTON -- Kirk Schuring warmed up the crowd Sunday morning at McKinley High School auditorium.

"The political pundits and pollsters have said this presidential race is tightening. I'm going to predict victory for John McCain and Sarah Palin.

"They will be the comeback kids and win on Tuesday," Schuring told a packed fieldhouse before Palin addressed the rally.

"The other side is advocating more government. We must unleash the America spirit."

"The work is not over," Schuring cautioned. "We won't stop working until the last poll closes on Tuesday."

Schuring, seeking to represent the 16th district in Congress, said the McCain-Palin ticket also will "advocate the right kind of change in Washington."

"They understand that Washington is broken and has lost its ability to plan and use common sense. That common sense is rooted right here in the 16th Congressional District and in Stark County."

He added that the American spirit remains alive and well and will be rejuvenated with a Republican victory.

Retiring Congressman Ralph Regula reminded the crowd to "put country first," a McCain-Palin theme before introducing Schuring.

Gretchen Wilson, country music recording star, sang several hit songs before Palin told the crowd of her plans.

"John McCain and I want to lower your taxes and return government to of the people, by the people and for the people," Palin said.

She promised their team would not cut military spending and would help foster job growth for America.

RELEASE: Team Schuring Blitzes District With Door-To-Door Effort

Release:

CANTON - Kirk Schuring's campaign team knocked on well over 4,500 doors in all four counties this weekend.

With the help of dozens of volunteers, staff and the "Spirit of 16 Express" bus, literature was given to district residents.

"This was a great weekend for us in terms of grass-roots campaigning," said Staci Hansel, political director for Schuring.

"With eight days until Election Day, we'll have a strong presence throughout the district every day. Our volunteers have stepped up their efforts, and with the addition of the bus we're able to take our message to even more voters in the district," she said.

There are planned campaign stops each day and the bus schedule will be updated daily at www.schuringforcongress.com.

OH-16 Update

I mentioned this on the Twitter feed yesterday, but I wanted to point out that the Akron Beacon Journal endorsed Kirk Schuring yesterday. A sample:

Schuring has shown independent-mindedness on many issues, bucking party support for charter schools, for example. He also is willing to tackle big problems such as school funding, his own plan containing features the governor's office has been noodling.
...
Schuring has demonstrated a greater understanding of the issues and, just as important, an ability to think for himself.

My good friend Ben Keeler has much more to add to the discussion of OH-16 over at The Point.

OH-16: Blunders, Distortions and Double Talk at Wooster Debate

Release:

Boccieri Lacks Basic Understanding Of Issues, Government Roles

WOOSTER - Youngstown Senator John Boccieri made a number of statements during Wednesday night's debate that reveal his lack of understanding of the issues and the workings of the federal government.

These include:

BLUNDER: Boccieri called regulatory reform a "giveaway to Wall Street."

Actually, regulatory reform is used to keep companies from giving out bad loans
that will create an unnecessary risk of taxpayers' dollars.

BLUNDER: Regarding the financial crisis, Boccieri said President Bush should have enforced SEC regulations.

It is the job of Congress to enforce regulations by creating oversight committees and hold hearings when questionable practices arise.

DISTORTION: Boccieri claims that our nation's natural gas supplies are tapped out or inaccessible.

Geological surveys have shown there are vast amounts of both natural gas and oil in ANWR and offshore. With the congressional drilling ban having expired, we can move closer to energy independence.

DISTORTION: The Youngstown area senator said the Card Check bill has a provision that allows for a secret ballot.

Even unions have formed a group to defeat this bill. The act would require
signature collection for the formation of unions, rather than a vote. He also stated
that "unions may not be necessary." To find out more go to,
http://www.unionfacts.com/articles/cardCheck.cfm

DOUBLE TALK: Boccieri says he is against the free market being involved in healthcare, however he also reiterated his position favoring a universal health care system saying it should be an employer-based system. He said he also favors a portable system.

Employer-based health care systems are in direct opposition to health care being portable between jobs. It can only be portable if health care is either entirely consumer driven or entirely government sponsored. Boccieri needs to figure out the facts. Giving employers tax incentives so that small businesses can provide competitively priced coverage, as recommended by Sen. Schuring, will allow for a portable, consumer-driven health care system.

BLUNDER: Boccieri called the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) a hindrance to trade in Northeast Ohio.

The Agreement on Agriculture of the Uruguay Round continues to be the most substantial trade liberalization agreement in agricultural products in the history of trade negotiations. The goals of the agreement were to improve market access for agricultural products, reduce domestic support of agriculture in the form of price-distorting subsidies and quotas. This is helping lower trade barriers, not creating new ones.

"Once again this shows Mr. Boccieri's failure to grasp the issues and challenges that lie ahead. Kirk Schuring has sound plans and has remained consistent on the issues, while his opponent seems to be all over the board," said PJ Wenzel, Schuring's campaign manager.

Memo to John Boccieri: Even George McGovern Thinks Card Check Is A Bad Idea For Workers

Release:

CANTON - John Boccieri might think the Employee Free Choice Act (commonly known as Card Check) is a good idea, but prominent members in his own party don't agree.

George McGovern, former Democratic presidential nominee and a strong supporter of labor unions, has said in a television ad, "Today's union leaders are turning their backs on democratic workplace elections."

Currently, if a significant proportion of a company's employees sign authorization cards seeking union representation a labor organization can petition the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to hold an election - an election that is conducted by a secret ballot and overseen by neutral federal regulators.

That all would change under the bill that Boccieri supports. It would allow unions to seek certification without a private vote once a majority of targeted employees have signed cards. They may also seek a government-imposed labor contract on wages, benefits and working conditions.

That's why Kirk Schuring, Republican candidate for the 16th Congressional District seat, opposes this poorly named EFCA.

"All American employees ought to have the right to a secret ballot. Our democracy is rooted in the privacy of our vote," Schuring said.

McGovern added, "I've listened to all the arguments; quite simply, this proposed law cannot be justified. Working families deserve a voice and a private vote."

"Not many people are talking about the fact that John Boccieri would take away the secret ballot of millions of Americans. His support for card check legislation flies in the face of workers' rights," said Schuring Campaign Manager PJ Wenzel.

For more information or to hear McGovern's comments, go to http://www.employeefreedom.org/.

UPDATE: A quote from last night's debate (which took place in Wooster) between Schuring and Boccieri:

Schuring cited George McGovern's opposition to card check during him and Boccieri's back-and-forth over the issue. Near the end of the exchange, Boccieri said, "I'm suprised to hear you quote liberal democrats," and Schuring said, "I've quoted you many times this year."

OH-16: Repository Endorses Kirk Schuring For Congress

Schuring Will Keep Regula's Style In D.C.
2008-10-05

In 36 years in the U.S. House, Ralph Regula has been, first, one of us. He has put people ahead of ideology and political party. His approach is rarer today in national politics than it once was, and the country has suffered as a result. That is why The Repository editorial board supports Kirk Schuring in the race to succeed Regula, who is retiring. We believe Schuring meets the "one of us" test and, like Regula, has shown a capacity for rising above partisanship.

Schuring, a Republican from Jackson Township, will face John Boccieri, a Democrat now living in Alliance, in the Nov. 4 election. We endorsed both candidates in their primary elections in March. Both are sitting state senators - Schuring for the 29th District in Stark County, Boccieri for the 33rd District representing a slice of eastern Stark County and centered on Youngstown.

In the General Assembly, Schuring has sought pragmatic solutions to thorny problems. Witness his presentation last year of a detailed proposal for state funding of public schools. He intended it as a discussion starter, and it may help shape the final plan.

Schuring showed his pragmatism last week in meeting with the editorial board. Asked about priorities for bringing federal dollars to the 16th Congressional District, he listed specific initiatives: finishing the state Route 30 widening and relocation, increasing air freight at the Akron-Canton Airport, improving rail capacity, ensuring that local colleges get research money in areas that drive regional growth.

Yet Schuring also bows to budget realities and to the imperatives of good governance. When asked about earmarks - where members of Congress lard local pork onto unrelated bills with no prior notice or public disclosure - Schuring said: "We live in a different day." His meaning? A nation with swelling budget deficits and a national financial crisis cannot afford earmarks. We agree.

Schuring is pragmatic, too, on ending the war in Iraq. He supports bringing our troops home after stability has been ensured and when our military leaders say the time is right.

Boccieri is a passionate, articulate voice on the war, the economy, health care and energy. But we're concerned that his proposals reflect more awareness of packaging a marketing message than of the 16th District itself. Asked about priorities for the district, he offered grand language about important issues - saving the middle class, reforming health care, delivering energy independence. But he suggested nothing specific. Nothing so tangible as air freight. And on earmarks, he declared simply: "I support earmarks" with transparency.

On the war, Boccieri said American troops must be brought home "safely, honorably and soon." Pressed to elaborate on the meaning of "soon," he said all troops should be withdrawn in six or seven months. As a major in the Air National Guard who has flown cargo planes into Iraq, Boccieri may have insights that escape Schuring and many of the rest of us. But six or seven months seems logistically impossible.

The most important difference between the candidates is on partisanship in Congress and conducting a campaign. In our view, the biggest change needed in Washington is about rising above the hyper-partisanship that prevents Congress from finding solutions to pressing problems.

Asked about that, Schuring touted his record of reaching out to Democrats and pledged more of the same. An example: He bucked his own party to oppose charter schools. Boccieri also noted how he has reached across party lines. But tellingly, we think, he first blamed the problems in Congress today on the ascent of Republicans to the majority in 1994. Blame as the first step in reaching out doesn't strike us as helpful.

Boccieri has benefited in this campaign far more than his opponent from the help of officially unaffiliated outsiders - "help" that we think has coarsened and cheapened the campaign. Take the direct mail pieces sent recently by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. They attack Schuring for voting for a pay raise for state legislators without disclosing that Schuring has declined the raise each year since and is paid less than any other state senator, including Boccieri. Asked about the mailers, Boccieri seemed unaware of them. He was, however, aware of a mailer sent recently by the Ohio Republican Party seeking to link him to disgraced former Attorney General Marc Dann. Cheap shots on both sides. To date, however, Boccieri is the bigger beneficiary by far.

Ralph Regula will leave a worthy legacy. On knowing the 16th District, on seeking real solutions, on reaching across the party divide to achieve results, Schuring is the better choice to succeed him.

RELEASE: Not Renewing Ban on Offshore Drilling Right Move

Release:

CANTON - Congress' decision to allow a quarter-century ban on drilling for oil off America's coasts to expire underscores the need to drill now.

"The decision to allow this moratorium to expire without renewal shows that calling for offshore drilling was right," said Republican 16th Congressional district candidate Kirk Schuring.

Schuring has repeatedly called for immediate drilling in ANWR and off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. The Interior Department estimates there are millions of barrels of recoverable oil beneath coastal waters that have been off-limits.

"My opponent has not agreed with me, and with millions of Americans, that opening up all offshore drilling now will relieve the price at the pump. It's apparent that allowing this expiration is a huge win for consumers struggling with gasoline prices."

Schuring said most residents he speaks with across the district support drilling now.

"Drilling is vital to bringing down the price at the pump in the short-term. However, we must also have an energy plan that aggressively pursues advanced and alternative energy sources including solar, biofuels, clean coal technologies, wind and nuclear."

OH-16: Boccieri On Wrong Side Of Workers' Rights

CANTON - John Boccieri again showed his disdain for area workers by supporting a radical change to American labor law.

The Youngstown area state Senator, who is seeking the 16th Congressional District seat, recently went on record supporting the Employee Free Choice Act (H.R. 800) known to most as "card check."

"Workers should not live in fear of intimidation," said state Senator Kirk Schuring, Republican candidate from Jackson Township.

Schuring said he supports the right of any employee to unionize, but believes the traditional secret-ballot option must be maintained.

"This is about employees having free choice and the right to a secret ballot. Our American democracy is rooted in the privacy of our vote," Schuring said.

"This radical legislation would take away secret ballots and expose employees to possible intimidation tactics by union organizers. It could make for a potentially very uncomfortable work environment for millions of working men and women."

Schuring said H.R. 800 is harmful in several ways.

First, it requires the National Labor Relations Board to certify a union after a majority of a firm's workers has signed union cards, putting an end to almost all organizing elections.

Second, the EFCA requires companies and newly certified unions to enter binding arbitration if they cannot reach agreement on an initial contract after 90 days of negotiations. Neither companies nor employees could appeal the arbitrator's ruling, and the contract would last for two years.

Third, it would dramatically increase the penalties for unfair labor practices committed by employers, but not unions, during an organizing drive.

Some contend that the act would protect workers' freedom to freely choose to join a union. However, Schuring believes the American secret ballot is a worker's best defense against potential harassment, intimidation or even retaliation based on the public disclosure of a person's private decision.

"Secret ballots have worked effectively for years. Card check is not a move to help the rank and file workers in our shops and factories. In fact, it takes away their fundamental right, and that's why I oppose it," he said.

Our good friends at PolitickerOH have a story on this as well.

RELEASE: New Video Highlights Tactics By Outsiders

Release:

CANTON - Schuring for Congress has posted a new video on its Web site that shows the intrusive tactics employed by John Boccieri's campaign.

For several months, a staffer hired by the Ohio Democratic Party has followed Schuring to public events in the 16th Congressional Distsrict.

The man carries a camera and microphone and often invades the privacy of private citizens trying to converse with the Republican candidate. Complaints of this behavior at the recent Stark County Fair lead to the man's removal from the area where Schuring was talking with fairgoers.

"We really question these types of tactics," said PJ Wenzel, Kirk Schuring's campaign manager. "We've had so many complaints from supporters that we felt we needed to film the intrusive behavior and show it to all voters in the district.

"It just smacks of Youngtown-style politics and makes folks in the district feel really uncomfortable."

Here is the video:

RELEASE: Veterans Coalition Supports Schuring

Release:

CANTON - A broad coalition representing 50 area veterans and their families has given its support to Kirk Schuring.

Gold Star Families member Scott Warner, part of the coalition, called Schuring, "an established leader in Ohio. He's going to represent us well in Washington, D.C. He is strong on defense and immigration."

Warner's son, Heath, served in the Marines and was killed during Operation Iraqi Freedom on Nov. 22, 2006.

The coalition is comprised of veterans from several conflicts. Gold Star families are those who have lost loved ones in Iraq or Afghanistan.

"It's extremely gratifying to receive the support of so many veterans and their families within the district," said Schuring, a candidate for the 16th Congressional District seat. "I believe the families of our military personnel also serve and play a huge role in our success."

Major General Robert Haas, who served with the 45th Infantry Division in Korea in 1952-53, also supports Schuring's candidacy.



"Kirk is a very patriotic person who loves this country. He has fought for veterans' rights as a state Senator. And as our Congressman, he will continue to fight for veterans - with even more determination.

"He has never lost his ability to listen - to listen to you and your individual needs and problems. I support Kirk one hundred percent for Congress," Haas said.

Donna Checca is a member of the Blue Star Moms whose son, Capt. Rocky Checca, is serving his third tour in Iraq. She says the surge is working and also thinks that Schuring is the best choice for Congress.

"Even though he didn't serve, I totally believe that Kirk supports the military more than his opponent does."

Steve Fetterman, who served his country during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, knows the value of having a strong military.

"I know Kirk is strong on defense and that's what we need. We must keep our national security at a high level," he said.

Schuring supports completing the job in Iraq.

"Thanks to the outstanding efforts of our armed forces, progress is being made in Iraq, and we'll continue to see success there as long as we continue to follow a military strategy and not a political strategy. By following a military strategy to stabilize and secure Iraq, we will allow our troops to come home soon," he said.

Previously, the Stark County Veterans & Fraternal Organizations Committee endorsed the Republican from Jackson Township.

In 2005, Schuring introduced a bill to authorize the display of combat battle stars on certain special combat or military plates. He did so after a group of local veterans lead by Canton resident Dwight Lewis approached him about it at a Veterans Day event.

To read more about the bill click here.

He also has sponsored several pieces of legislation to assist veterans, including:

- Co-sponsored bill to exempt soldiers who died in combat zones from numerous estate taxes

- Co-sponsored bill for "Gold Star Family" license plates

- Co-sponsored a bill allowing any active-duty armed forces member to obtain a free duplicate drivers license following a service related injury

- Co-sponsored bill to create state level cabinet position for Vets Affairs

- Co-sponsored bill to allow taxpayers to contribute part of income tax to ohio vets home agency

To see a video clip of veterans supporting Schuring, go to www.schuringforcongress.com.

RELEASE: Ohio Right to Life PAC Endorses Schuring for Congress

Release:

COLUMBUS - The Ohio Right to Life Society PAC today announced its endorsement of State Senator Kirk Schuring in the race in Ohio's 16th Congressional District.

"Kirk Schuring has been a strong advocate of the pro-life cause throughout his years in the Ohio General Assembly and we are proud to support his candidacy for Congress," said Mike Gonidakis, spokesman for Ohio Right to Life PAC. "We look forward to working with him in Congress to protect human life for years to come. Make no mistake, the Ohio pro-life movement recognizes no better statesman and friend than Kirk Schuring." Gonidakis said.

In 2001, in response to reports that some abortion facilities had not obtained an ambulatory surgical facility license, Schuring introduced H.B. 417 to provide the Ohio Department of Health with clear power to enforce the ASF health and safety licensing requirements. A companion Senate version of the bill passed with Schuring's strong support. Some other highlights of Schuring's pro-life record are:

- Schuring co-sponsored, signed a discharge petition for, and signed on an amicus brief to support Ohio's first-in-nation attempt to ban partial birth abortion. He also co-sponsored and voted for Ohio's current partial birth abortion ban.

- Schuring co-sponsored and voted for Ohio's Parental Consent Law.

- Schuring co-sponsored and voted for Ohio's Fetal Homicide and Assault Law.

- Schuring co-sponsored and voted for the Compassionate Care Act to deter assisted suicide and improve pain control and palliative care.

In addition to his outstanding pro-life voting record, Schuring gave pro-life responses to all of the questions on Ohio Right to Life's candidate survey.

Democrats for Schuring

Release:

CANTON - A group of area Democrats today announced the establishment of a Democratic coalition to support Republican Kirk Schuring for the 16th Congressional District seat.

Former Canton City Councilman Fonda Williams will lead the group as its chair.

"I've known Kirk for many years. In that time, I've seen him effectively work with members of both parties to get things done. He's a problem solver and someone you can count on," Williams said.

"He's one of us. Kirk's lived here all his life, and he has the pulse of the community and will be a strong voice for us in Washington," he concluded.

The coalition has more than 30 members and comes on the heels of Schuring unveiling a labor coalition last week.

"I've worked hard to represent all the people within my district over the years, regardless of political affiliation," Schuring said. "I'm honored that so many Democrats have chosen to support my candidacy for Congress."

Bill Ackerman, local Democratic leader, is enthusiastic in his support.

"He's what I've been looking for in an elected leader my whole adult life. He's never asked me to support him, but he reached out to me when members of my own party turned a deaf ear," Ackerman said.

"I met Kirk at an outing a few years ago and he helped me with a problem. He's done more for me than any Democrat I know," said Ackerman.

Williams said the number of Democrats joining the coalition grows daily.

"Their support has just been fantastic," Schuring said.

RELEASE: Former Football Star, State Senator Endorses Schuring

Release:

ASHLAND - A well-known former football player and legislator has endorsed Kirk Schuring's candidacy.

Dick Schafrath, former state Senator and an offensive lineman for the Ohio State University and the Cleveland Browns, is showing his support on Ashland radio for Schuring in the 16th Congressional District race. The recorded ad begins this week on Ashland County radio stations.

"Having someone with the credibility of Dick Schafrath join my team is exciting," Schuring, R-Jackson Township, said.

Schafrath has lived in the district and knows the people and the issues that affect them, Schuring said.

"Not only do residents remember Dick as one tough football player, but he served the Ashland County area well as an elected legislator. He is well respected for what he's accomplished as an athlete, a Senator and a person.

"I have a tremendous amount of respect for Dick Schafrath and what he stands for, and I am truly grateful for his public support in this race," Schuring said.

Visit www.schuringforcongress.com to hear this and other radio spots.

OH-16: Schuring's Campaign Schedule for Weekend

Release:

CANTON - Kirk Schuring, Republican candidate for the 16th Congressional District, has another busy weekend of campaigning in the district.

Friday night Schuring will attend the Chippewa at Tuslaw football game. On Saturday he will attend the Medina Gun Show and the Wayne County Fair.

Schuring is using these events to talk about his plan to bring jobs to the district and his ideas on lowering gas prices and cutting taxes.

"With 60 days until the election it's important to meet and talk with as many residents of the district as possible. These events afford me an opportunity to do that and have valuable dialogue with voters," Schuring said.

Catch him if you can!

RELEASE: "Labor Coalition Forms To Support Schuring"

This just in...

CANTON - Republican Kirk Schuring today announced support of a labor coalition in his bid to represent Ohio's 16th Congressional District.

"As a Congressman, I will represent the interests of everyone in the district, and I look forward to working with this growing group of supporters who represent various labor unions. This coalition is a terrific addition to our growing base of support within the district," Schuring said.

Local labor leaders appreciate the work Schuring has done as a state legislator the past 15 years.

"Kirk Schuring was with us from the beginning to the end during our struggle at the Hoover Company," said Chris Koehler, Chief Steward of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1985.

"He was there to show support and guidance during our contract talks with Maytag in 2003, and also when we first heard that Maytag was possibly going to be sold. During that period, he played an important role in our quest to pursue alternatives in an attempt to save our jobs and keep the Hoover Company in North Canton," Koehler said.

John Marinucci, President of USW Local 1124-03 of Republic Special Metals, also supports Schuring.

"Kirk has always been there when we have needed him. He is the guy we call when we need help and he always responds."

Schuring said the district's next Congressman must understand the challenges, hopes and values of working people.

"Working families in the 16th district have been fighting a long time to make a decent wage and put food on the table. With the rising cost of groceries and gasoline, they need an advocate to fight for them in Washington."

Schuring considers the labor force one of the district's strengths.

"The 16th Congressional District is fortunate to have a skilled workforce with a strong work ethic. Skilled laborers play a key role in my economic development plan - a plan that will grow our economy, save and create jobs," he said.

RELEASE: Boccieri Rubs Elbows With Washington Elite While Schuring Spends Time With Voters

This just in...

CANTON - Youngstown area Senator John Boccieri is so concerned with voters of the 16th Congressional District that he is working harder than ever to ignore them - this week he's spending several days at the Democratic National Convention in Denver.

State Senator Kirk Schuring, Republican candidate for the seat, will spend much of the week campaigning at the Stark County Fair and at other venues within the district.

Boccieri, who refuses to condemn negative and inaccurate attacks from out-of-state interest groups made on his behalf, will spend time in Denver with these same people.

"This is just another example of how close Senator Boccieri is to Washington insiders. These are the same people who are out of touch with the people of the 16th District," Schuring said.

"John doesn't understand that it is not important who you know in Washington. What is important is what you can get done in Washington by being a voice for the people back home."

Schuring, who was up six points in a Tarrance Group poll conducted last month, has a busy schedule inside the district over the next couple of weeks.

"I was surprised to hear that during the week of the Stark County Fair my opponent decided to make a trip to Denver. I was extended an invitation to attend the Republican National Convention next week, but opted to remain closer to home and meet with voters in Stark, Wayne, Medina and Ashland counties," Schuring said.

OH-16 Update

Two items for you today:

The first deals with the fact that Youngstown John Boccieri walks away from a debate when he's been screaming for one. The two candidates have agreed on some debates and the details for all of that can be found in this Canton Repository piece.

The second is this Times-Gazette piece and what is so interesting about it is that points out Boccieri is from Youngstown, doesn't live in the district, and also reports that only ten people showed up at the event in question. I can't resist this quote:

"We're enjoying our time with some great people here in Ashland County," Boccieri said. "I'm really pleased. These people are just down to earth and they want a representative they can see, feel and touch and hear from. And that's the kind of legislator I want to be."

Yeah, John, real people are "just down to earth" like that all the time... Could Youngstown John be any more out of touch with the 16th District?