Forget the rubber chicken dinners.

There's a new game in town: cornhole.

And Gov. Ted Strickland has let it be known he will soon hold a cornhole tournament to raise money for his campaign, with regional competitions around Ohio, including one in North Canton.

Not familiar with cornhole? It's a bean bag-tossing game that's popular on campuses and at tailgate parties.

''The tournament is a fun way of bringing Ohioans around a great game with Ohio roots,'' said Alex Goepfert, a spokesman for the Ohio Democratic Party.

Cincinnati is among the places that claim credit for starting the popular backyard game.

This is the first time Strickland has organized the tournament, which is getting positive buzz.

''I think it's a great event,'' said Johnnie Maier, chairman of the Stark County Democratic Party. ''Very out-of-the box, nontypical. People will have a lot of fun.''

Maier sent details of the fundraiser to Democratic officeholders in Stark County. He said he expects a good turnout for North Canton's event, which will be at 11 a.m. Aug. 16 at St. George's Center, 4667 Apple Grove St. N.W.

Cost is $50 per competition for singles and $100 per competition for doubles.

The first- and second-place winners of the nine regional competitions will face off at the state championship, which will be Sept. 20, corresponding with Strickland's annual birthday bash.

The regional winners also will receive cornhole sets made by the South Central Ohio District Council of Carpenters based in Columbus. The sets will feature the tournament logo, which has a drawing of Strickland with ears of corn framing him.

State victors will get trophies.

The Ohio Corn Growers Association is sponsoring the tournament. The Wholesale Beer and Wine Association will provide beverages.

Strickland, who admits liking cornhole but also says he's no ringer, will be at each event.

For more information or to register, call 614-221-3287 or send an e-mail to rsvp@tedstrickland.com.