Many have left their families to defend our freedom. We salute their bravery; we express our appreciation and support to their families. And we pray for their safe return.

We live in a land like no other - a land of freedom and opportunity unparalleled on the face of the globe.

We must ensure our system of higher education offers world-class quality for a world-class economy.

We stand strong together - as Americans - many cultures, races and faiths, but one nation under God.

We will never forget the passengers of Flight 93, who courageously confronted the terrorists, defeating another planned attack on America. They are the heroes for our times.

A dynamic economy begins with a good education.

If we are to create tomorrow's jobs, we can't remain frozen in time in yesterday's tax system.

Ohioans are practical. We're a can-do people. Give us a problem, we'll give you a solution.

We all share a common goal - we want our children to succeed.

Yet in this global economy, no jobs are safe. High-speed Internet connections and low-cost, skilled labor overseas are an explosive combination.

Everything depends on a good job - strong families, strong communities, the pursuit of the American dream, and a tax base to support schools for our kids and services for our seniors.

Let us seize the special opportunity that is ours to act boldly and decisively at a time when the eyes of our fellow citizens, both present and future, are upon us.

What happened on September 11 compels us to focus on who we are as Americans, what we stand for, what really matters in our lives - family, friends, faith and freedom.

What we don't talk about enough is Ohio's unique and remarkable quality of life. We are a state of cities, small towns and growing suburbs where life is affordable and destinations within reach. There is no better place to raise a family.

Whether we knew many who died on September 11 or personally knew none, we all lost something on that day. Innocence. Security. A trust that our homeland would always be safe.