By Letizia
Columbus, OH – Stories include:
Labor department says number of new unemployment claims fell last week to early-January level. :00September retail reports show weak sales as shoppers worried about job security and tight credit. :38One-third of parents don't want to vaccinate children against H1N1, despite health officials' urging. 1:06Akron-based manufacturer of Purell hand sanitizer is boosting production and hiring more workers. 2:03Rite-Aid drug stores no longer will require pregnant women to have prescriptions for flu vaccines. 2:30Ohio consumer advocates upset about increased fee to turn heat back on after being disconnected. 2:59Ohio lawmakers and First Energy customers upset about fees for energy efficient lightbulb program. 3:38GM sales chief to resign after September sales fell 45%; replacement not yet chosen. 5:10Coal supporters tell congress and the EPA to stop holding up mine permits in Ohio and elsewhere. 6:03Michigan and Wisconsin governors say Midwest states need to cooperate to promote clean energy. 6:38World leaders to meet in December to finalize climate change treaty; early talks show little progress. 7:08Scientists work to save Ash tree seeds before Ash Borer beetle pushes species to extinction. 8:09