Business news in brief

REGION

Strickland to speak

BOARDMAN — Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland is the keynote speaker for the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber’s Salute to Business breakfast at 7:30 a.m. Sept. 3 at Mr. Anthony’s Banquet Centre.

In addition to his remarks, the governor will help the chamber recognize its 2009 award recipients, who are:

UEd Muransky, chairman of the board and founder of The Muransky Companies, Business Professional of the Year.

UBill DeCicco, retired executive director, CASTLO Community Improvement Corp., Business Advocate of the Year.

UGermaine Bennett, educational human resource consultant, ONTASC, Non-Profit Professional of the Year.

ULarry Fauver, vice president, Mahoning/Trumbull Labor Council AFL-CIO, Salute to Labor Achievement.

As is tradition at the breakfast, which is sponsored by KeyBank National Association with additional support of the Western Reserve Building and Construction Trades Council, the chamber will recognize businesses celebrating milestone anniversaries, receive a preview of Youngstown State University’s football season from Head Coach Jon Heacock, and kick off the 163rd Canfield Fair.

The cost of the event is $25 for chamber members and $30 for prospective members. To make reservations, contact Jennifer Mascardine at (330) 744-2131, ext. 12. The deadline for reservations is Aug. 28.

Gasoline prices decrease

COLUMBUS — Ohio gasoline prices are down 7 cents from last Monday, to an average $2.54 for a gallon of regular. A survey from auto club AAA, the Oil Price Information Service and Wright Express shows Ohio prices at the pumps are still higher than a month ago, when regular was averaging $2.36. Last year at this time, the state’s motorists were paying $3.70 per gallon.

From Vindicator staff and wire reports