Gun violence is a significant problem within the City of Lima, and local organizations are now taking initiative to combat against the recent rise in shootings. The Lima Area Black Minister Alliance along with administrators from Lima City Schools and community members came together at Providence Missionary Baptist Church for a "End the Gun Violence" community forum.

A civil lawsuit has been filed against a Lima City councilman for alleged statements he made. In a lawsuit filed June 24, Jermaine Harper is suing Councilman Jon Neeper for slander, false light and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Harper is seeking more than $25,000 in damages. The lawsuit states alleged statements Neeper made in May 2018. Harper alleges Neeper said he was hired director of the Walter Potts Entrepreneurial Center because of pressure by the mayor and Black Ministerial Alliance. It also states Neeper said Harper caused $12,000 to $15,000 to go missing and he came in with no plan for a program that was a "sham." Harper was made aware of the statements from Councilman Jaime Dixon in June 2018 and Harper sent a cease and desist letter.

Over the past couple of weeks, Lima has seen a rash of gun violence, but this is an issue that the Black Ministerial Alliance says they are ready to tackle. Reaching out to the young men in the community and letting them know that they are appreciated is what one pastor says would be the first step to putting an end to this problem.

More than 70 children showed up to the first night of the Lima Area Black Ministerial Alliance's Community Vacation Bible School at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church.

During tonight's session kindergarten through high school students learned about the fruits of the spirit. They learned how virtues like joy, love, patience and peace play a part in their lives.