The importance of Ohio being the heart of it all.

• Author: Simko, David A.
• Position: A message FROM THE CHAIR

Business is at the heart of what we do. It impacts us professionally as CPAs and it impacts us personally as consumers. If business in Ohio is struggling, we feel it both at work and at home.

The cover story of this issue details Ohio's rebranding campaign, because the strength of Ohio's reputation as a place to do business affects all of us. Whether you are working in industry or public practice, your organization needs clients and customers to purchase your goods and services.

The people serving in public office have a direct impact on the strength of Ohio's business. Their decisions on laws and taxes determine the strength and future of Ohio's business environment and the health of the business community. That is why voting in this November's election is so very important. As CPAs we should stand up and voice our support for those candidates supporting Ohio business.

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With so many issues on the table, it can be difficult to determine which candidates actually support Ohio business. Being an educated voter is critical. Each vote has power, and that power must be wielded with responsibility.

To help you cast an informed vote, The Ohio Society of CPAs Endorsement Committee carefully reviews candidates to determine who will best benefit Ohio's business community.

Candidates are considered based on their voting record (when applicable), key issues impacting the profession, as well as their experience, background and responses to questions posed by The Ohio Society of CPAs. For certain candidates, personal interviews are also conducted. Endorsement decisions do not include consideration of the candidates' party affiliation or their position on social issues.

The endorsement committee reviewing the candidates also represents a diverse cross-section of the membership. Members of the committee are selected based on geographic area, party affiliation, area of practice, and participation in Ohio Society activities. We try to ensure that the screening committees represent the diversity of the Society membership to ensure all perspectives are considered.

Fairness, integrity and objectivity are cornerstones of The Ohio Society's endorsement process. Member volunteers and Society leadership spend hours evaluating each candidate in order to make wise decisions. This process represents a valuable tool to help members decide where to cast their votes...