The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services released the numbers for all 88 counties. Mercer County had the lowest rate in the state at two-point seven percent. Auglaize and Putnam fell slightly last month. Allen and Hancock Counties remained unchanged from June to July.

The Salvation Army kicked off their Christmas in July Kettle Campaign on Monday in Allen County at all Chief Supermarket and Kewpee locations. Volunteers brought out the renowned red kettles to accept donations that provide assistance to the community and those in need as well as to operate summer programs. Despite the calendar saying July, the Salvation Army operates year round and requires a steady stream of donations to fulfill its mission.

The Lima Salvation Army now has two new captains to help the local community. Charity and Phillip Bender will serve as the new officers at the Salvation Army of Lima. 

One local group makes sure that everyone is patriotic mood at the Star-Spangled Spectacular before the fireworks light up the sky. The Lima Ar…

Recent dry weather is a growing concern for area farmers as there has been virtually no rain for two and a half weeks.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol says troopers have issued 2,200 tickets since April for people driving more than 100 mph. That is a 61% increase over the same time period a year ago. July was also Ohio’s worst month for fatal crashes since 2007. California, Iowa, and Utah are among several states reporting similar year-over-year increases for high-speed violations.

Up and down unemployment numbers hit West Central Ohio in the month of July.