Red Cross Opens Emergency Shelter and Cooling Station in Marion

In response to storms of June 29th, the Marion County Chapter of the American Red Cross has opened an emergency shelter and cooling station at the Chapter located at 1849 Summerset Dr. in Marion.  The shelter and cooling station opened at 1:00 p.m. Saturday and will remain open until further notice.  Persons wishing to use the facility are asked to call the Chapter prior to arriving at 740-725-9141.

Commissioners Renew Transportation Contract, Accept JFS Funds

The Marion County Commissioners on Thursday accepted excess funds from Wood County Department of Job and Family Services, renewed a contract for transportation services with two local companies, and heard a reminder about dog licensing.

Palace Holding Special Parties for Musical Patrons

The Palace production of "Annie" opens on Saturday, July 14, 2012 and those purchasing $40 patron tickets will have the opportunity to attend two parties.

Council Committees to Discuss 2013 Budget, Construction Projects

Two committees of Marion City Council will meet on Monday, July 2. Topics on the agendas include discussion of the 2013 budget and engineering for construction projects.

Holiday Travelers Leave Property Susceptible to Theft

A record 1.75 million Ohioans will leave their property susceptible to theft or damage this coming week as they travel for Independence Day.

Many travelers are taking advantage of the mid-week holiday by extending vacations and taking their big summer trip during this travel period. In fact, 54 percent plan on leaving this weekend, which means a large number of homes will be open to thieves.

Ohio Version of DREAM Act Proposed

Ohio’s version of the DREAM Act, designed to make the children of illegal immigrants eligible for in-state tuition and financial aid, was rolled out this week by a pair of Senate Democrats.

Ohio Implementation of Healthcare Law Uncertain

While upholding much of President Barack Obama’s health-care overhaul, the U.S. Supreme Court tossed out a requirement that states expand their Medicaid programs, throwing into limbo whether hundreds of thousands of Ohioans will gain coverage.

Officials Urge Residents to Use Caution During Extreme Heat

With heat and humidity on the rise, the Ohio Department of Health and Ohio Emergency Management Agency urge residents to use extra care to avoid heat-related illness over the next several days. They say you should remember that even short periods of high temperatures can cause serious health problems.

Marion Tech Names 296 Graduates

Marion Technical College recently honored 296 graduates for their accomplishments. A commencement ceremony was held on June 9, 2012 at the Palace Theatre in Marion, Ohio.

The following is a roster of graduates, including area of study, listed by hometown.

Program Seeks Donations to Help Send Kids to Camp

A group of local residents is working to raise funds to send kids to camp. Royal Family Kids is a Christian camp that is designed to create positive memories for children ages 7-11 who have been victims of abuse or neglect.

Local organizers are having a community sale and craft show on July 7 from 9:00am to 1:00pm at Abundant Life Church in Marion.