COLUMBUS (AP) -- A list of the top 10 stories of 2011 from the Ohio Associated Press, as voted on by member newspapers and broadcasters around the state:
1. Owner of exotic animals sets dozens of lions, tigers and bears free, forcing authorities to kill 48 animals and sparking intense debate about Ohio's animal regulations.
2. Ohio voters overwhelmingly reject Republican-backed law that limited the bargaining abilities of public workers.
3. Scandal involving Ohio State football players violating NCAA rules by selling or trading memorabilia to the owner of a tattoo parlor leads to forced resignation of Jim Tressel, departure of star quarterback Terrelle Pryor, vacating of 2010 season wins.
4. Jurors convict and sentence Anthony Sowell to death for killing 11 women whose remains were found in and around his Cleveland home.
5. Post-recession Ohio economy sputters, with continued high unemployment.
6. Republican U.S. Rep John Boehner of Ohio is elected House speaker, succeeding Democrat Nancy Pelosi.
7. Ohio man pleads guilty to all charges in deaths of 3 people found dismembered in hollow tree, sentenced to life in prison without parole.
8. GOP sets new U.S. House districts that put Democrats Kaptur, Kucinich in same district, lead to initiation of repeal effort by Democrats.
9. Ohio homeless man with a smooth radio voice is offered multiple jobs after newspaper video clip becomes online sensation, eventually lands in rehab for alcohol and drug dependency.
10. Ohio sells one prison, turns two over to private operator, returns one facility to state control.
What do you think of the list? Do you agree or disagree with the choices? What do you think is missing? What are your top 10 stories of 2011? Post your comments below.
(Copyright ©2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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