News Room

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 25, 2007

Columbus, OH -- Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher today announced that Governor Ted Strickland has appointed Fred J. Deel, Director of the Governor's Office of Appalachia (GOA) within the Ohio Department of Development, to the Appalachian Advanced Energy Association (AAEA), a new entity created to attract advanced energy jobs to Ohio's Appalachian region.

"Fred has been working closely with local, state and federal stakeholders to facilitate economic and community development throughout the Appalachian region; his familiarity with the unique issues and opportunities related to the region make him perfectly suited to serve the Association," said Lt. Governor Fisher, who also serves as state development director. "One of the priorities of Governor Strickland and the Department of Development is to make the state a leader in developing next generation energy resources. Appalachia has a great deal to offer advanced energy companies considering a location in Ohio, and we are excited about the important role the region can play in increasing next generation energy production and manufacturing."

The AAEA is a public-private partnership between the Governor's Office, Hocking College and the Hocking County Community Improvement Corporation, and will recruit business members to attract jobs in advanced energy technologies, including hydrogen fuel, wind and solar power. The limited liability company is comprised of three members representing the Hocking County CIC, Hocking College and the Governor, as well as members representing firms that are engaged in, in close relationship with, or provide services to the advanced energy industry. The AAEA will prepare proposals in conjunction with its membership to promote the area's resources and negotiate with companies considering an expansion in the Appalachian region.

Prior to joining the GOA in January, Deel, 56, was President of the Gallia County Board of Commissioners. He is retired from The Ohio State University, where he had a 31-year career as an Associate Professor and County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth and Community Development. He holds a Bachelor's Degree from University of Rio Grande and a Master's Degree in Education from The Ohio State University.

The GOA serves as an advocate in addressing the region's needs to state government by serving as the communication and coordination link among state agencies, local governments and the General Assembly. For more information, or to contact the GOA, visit www.odod.state.oh.us/goa.

A photo of Fred Deel is available by clicking here.

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Media contacts: Melissa Ament at (614) 466-6619 or Kimber Perfect at (614) 466-2609