Local

GOVERNOR MIKE DEWINE VISITS GREAT COUNCIL STATE PARK

Ohio welcomes the opening of its 76th state park near XeniaGreat Council State Park. Governor Mike DeWine, along with his wife Fran, toured the park before the official grand opening and related, “We invite Ohioans and people from around the country to learn more about the Shawnee people, the early settlers of this region and what life was like in the 1770s.” The park features a gallery, exhibits and a theater, as well as a stream with aquatic life. The Park is dedicated to Ohio’s Shawnee history and pioneer past and is now open to the public. 1587 US-68, Xenia. ohiodnr.gov

BITTERSWEET FARMS PARTNERS WITH GRACE COMMUNITY CENTER

Bittersweet Farms, a local organization that serves adults with developmental issues, announced a partnership with Grace Community Center (GCC), with plans to encourage personal growth through community-based volunteer opportunities and the GCC gardening program. For more information visit the Bittersweet Farms or Grace Community Center websites.

LUCAS CO. CANINE CARE & CONTROL OPENS FOOD PANTRY

The dog food pantry is available for any Lucas County residents in need. Funded through community donations, the pantry, which opened in response to multiple walk-in requests for dog food at the shelter, is open on the third Sunday of each month in the Lucas County Canine Care facility, 410 S. Erie St. Register to use the pantry and read more at lucascountydogs.com.

2024 HEAP SUMMER CRISIS PROGRAM

The Area Office on Aging of Northwestern and the Ohio Department of Development are partnering again for the Home Energy Assistance Summer Crisis Program to help Ohio families beat the summer heat. Income-eligible people can receive assistance in paying their electric bill, purchasing an air conditioner or fan, or making repairs to their central air conditioning unit through July 1 to Sept. 30. For more information on eligibility and the application process, call the Area Office on Aging at 419-382-0624 or visit development.ohio.gov.