Free tickets, utility bill help offered to idle fed workers in Ohio

COLUMBUS (AP) — Furloughed federal employees in Ohio are being offered free admission to a zoo and Ohio State sporting events along with help on utility bills in Columbus.

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium said furloughed employees can present their federal ID or badge at the ticket booth and receive free admission for as long as the government shutdown continues.

Furloughed employees can get in free to a men’s basketball game Friday night between Ohio State and Maryland at Value City Arena in Columbus. Two free tickets also are being offered for Ohio State women’s basketball, men’s ice hockey, wrestling, women’s gymnastics and men’s lacrosse.

Columbus says the Department of Utilities will waive penalties for furloughed city residents if they make minimum monthly payments. Those residents should call or visit the utility department.