STATEHOUSE CALENDAR

As a highlight of its monthlong effort to recognize outstanding women of service during Women’s History Month, the Ohio Department of Veterans Services (ODVS) will host an Ohio Women Veterans Forum, titled Women Veterans Leading the Way. This event will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 21, in the Atrium of the Ohio Statehouse in downtown Columbus.

The public and members of the media are welcome and encouraged to attend this free lunchtime program, which is expected to last approximately one hour.

ODVS Director Deborah Ashenhurst – a retired Major General with 37 years of service in the U.S. Army – will moderate the discussion, which will center around the panelists’ military service, leadership, and how they have applied the principles learned in the U.S. Armed Forces to their personal and professional lives.

 
The three panelists are …

¿ Melodie Cook, Army veteran

   CEO/Owner/Operator, Mother Mel's Wholesome Diner LLC

While on active duty in the U.S. Army, Cook was both a Food Service Specialist and a Nuclear Biological Chemical Sergeant. She is now an accomplished business owner in Columbus who owns and runs her own health-conscious mobile food service operation and is also involved with the Columbus Urban League IncubateHer program.

¿ Jasmin Hurley, Army veteran

   Founder & Practicing Attorney, JH Legal LLC

Hurley is a combat veteran and Bronze Star recipient who served in the U.S. Army. She held leadership roles in the Military Police as Platoon Leader, Executive Officer, and Battalion Plans Officer. Hurley moved on to work as an attorney in Columbus before founding her own practice. She is also the former Board Chair of the Central Ohio Chapter of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce for Veterans and was one of the founders of that organization.

¿ Charlynda Scales, Air Force veteran

   Founder & CEO, Mutt's Sauce LLC & OH Taste LLC

Scales is a best-selling author and motivational speaker – including as a TEDx presenter – who has launched several business ventures in the Dayton area. While in the Air Force, she served in a variety of roles for more than 18 years, including 11 as an Acquisitions Officer as well as time as a Senior Program Manager. Her popular Mutt's Sauce products honor her grandfather and his family recipes.

Media members who wish to request an interview with any of these extraordinary and dedicated women, please contact:

Jeff Rapp

Chief Communications Officer

Jeffrey.Rapp@dvs.ohio.gov

(614) 357-7305