MEDIA ADVISORY October 10, 2002

Multi-Agency Radio Communication System Up and Running at the Ohio Reformatory for Women

The Ohio Reformatory for Women (ORW) will host a media event on Wednesday, October 16, 2002, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The event will showcase the recent installment of the Multi-Agency Radio Communication System (MARCS), linking ORW with other DRC institutions and agencies statewide

The state-of-the-art MARCS system will allow corrections staff to communicate directly with other prisons and agencies statewide, both during routine transportation of inmates and critical incidents. A presentation will demonstrate the capabilities of the wireless communication system and highlight the enhanced safety and protection for the public.

Following the demonstration at ORW, the Ohio State Highway Patrol will have a MARCS demonstration at the Patrol’s Marysville Post. Lt. Marla Gaskill, commander of the Marysville Post will explain the advantages of MARCS for dispatchers and troopers. To learn how MARCS is used on the road, contact Lt. Marla Gaskill at (937) 644-8811 to schedule a ride-along with a trooper following the demonstration.

Following the presentation at ORW, those who desire may tour the facility. For more information, please contact Maralene Sines, ORW Public Information Officer, at (937) 642-1065, ext 2204.

Directions from Columbus:

· Take I-71 North to I-270 West

· Take U.S. 33 West through Marysville

· Take the U.S. 36 West exit towards OH 4 South/Urbana/245/Springfield

Keep left at the fork in the ramp. Turn left onto Collins Avenue.