Gov. Strickland named to regional leadership posts

COLUMBUS (AP) — Ohio’s governor has been picked to lead his counterparts from the Midwest and Great Lakes regions.

Gov. Ted Strickland says in his new role as chairman of the Midwestern Governors Association he’ll try to help the region cast off its “Rust Belt” reputation and become a hub for advanced energy.

Over the weekend, Strickland also was chosen as co-chairman of the Council of Great Lakes Governors with fellow Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle of Wisconsin.

The Ohio governor says he’s ready to help head up efforts to protect the lakes and re-energize the surrounding economy.

Strickland was named to both leadership positions during meetings of the National Governors Association in Washington.