COLUMBUS, OH -- Ohio State Parks will continue to "Salute The Troops" in 2003 by extending the popular lodging discount program for active military personnel through next year, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
"Salute The Troops" offers men and women currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces 10 percent discounts on overnight stays in state park resorts, cottages and campgrounds. The discount also applies to both reserve and National Guard personnel.
Our Salute The Troops special lets us say 'thank you' to active military for their outstanding service during the last year, said ODNR Director Sam Speck. It allows them the chance to spend valuable time with their families and loved ones away from the pressures of duty - in the quiet, natural setting of an Ohio State Park.
Members of the active military have used "Salute The Troops" discounts for more than 580 nights of lodging in state park facilities since the program was initiated in November 2001.
By presenting their current military identification, active members of the military will continue to receive 10 percent off all lodge, cottage and campground stays. "Salute The Troops" will run through the end of 2003 and cannot be used in combination with other lodging discounts or on holidays.
Ohio's 74 state parks offer a variety of year-round recreational opportunities. Eight parks feature resort lodges, complete with full-service dining rooms, indoor pools and lounges. Six have 18-hole golf courses. There are more than 500 rental cottages and 57 campgrounds with more than 9,000 campsites in the system. For more information regarding Ohio State Parks, call 1-800-BUCKEYE or the Ohio State Park information line at 614-265-7000. Or, visit the ODNR web site at ohiodnr.com and link to the state parks & resorts page.
For Further Information Contact:
Sandy Chiaramonte, Ohio State Parks
(614) 265-6571
-or-
Jane Beathard, ODNR Media Relations
(614) 265-6860