On the brink of homelessness

lence in law enforcement and foster stronger community ties,” said Craig Butler, MWCD executive director. “By investing in the education of promising students, we hope to encourage their pursuit of a rewarding career in law enforcement and contribute to a safer and more secure society for all.”

Once students complete their required OPOTA training, they are eligible to pursue a career in law enforcement, which includes the possibility of becoming a MWCD ranger. MWCD rangers are vital in ensuring the safety of over five million visitors who choose MWCD’s parks, marinas, lakes, and campgrounds as their recreation destination each year. Rangers also oversee the safety of MWCD’s 1,204 cottage sites.

For more information about the MWCD Law Enforcement Scholarship Program and how to apply, please visit mwcd.org/LEScholarship or contact Megan Zimmerman at Buckeye Career center at 330-308-5720 or mzimmerman@ buckeyecareercenter.org.

Community ODNR wants your help with five year plan

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is laying out a plan that looks at the future of outdoor recreation and wants Ohioans to weigh-in on what they want to see.

ODNR developed a draft of its Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) after engaging with public and outdoor recreation providers and conducting a statewide survey. The SCORP is a five-year strategic plan that guides state and local investments for developing and managing outdoor recreation and facilities.

“We know people all around the state love to enjoy the great outdoors in different ways,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “This plan gives us a blueprint for the future and allows us to tailor a plan for outdoor recreation that fits the wants and needs of Ohioans.”

The SCORP priorities include advancing the trail network, enhancing existing recreational facilities, emphasizing recreational opportunities and access to waterways, raising awareness about recreation opportuni -

Dear Ann,

My friend admits he has mental health issues and is unable to work. I think he is close to being evicted from his apartment and has not found any options. Catholic Charities said they have no funds available for him. He was turned down for Social Security Disability two years ago, but I told him to reapply. I am thinking he will end up homeless. Any suggestions? Thank you kindly, Concerned

Dear Concerned, I’m so glad he has a friend who cares. Mental health is a very serious thing. He really needs to find a professional counselor who will help him through this. If he gets a proper diagnosis, I would think he could get some monetary help. Since I do not know the extent of the problems and what may have caused them, ties, and protecting the natural environment. Once complete, it will serve as a reference document for state officials distributing federal and state grants for public park facilities around the state.

Ohioans can read the draft and provide input by visiting ohiodnr.gov/ scorp. Comments will be accepted through the end of August.

I cannot say for sure, but I would suggest going to Job and Family Services to see what they have to offer in Harrison County and strongly encourage him to reapply for disability. Maybe you could help him find a good church to get spiritual help and a stronger support system as well. If he could find some type of odd job that would help keep his mind off his problems, that would be a step in the right direction. Sometimes farmers need help this time of year, and working outdoors may be better than in a confined area. I pray you find some answers soon. Every life is worth living.

Incentive

Much Love, Ann

from Page 3 on the well-being of first responders and provides specialized support and training to help emergency-response agencies proactively address post-traumatic stress and other traumas caused by factors that are unique to first-responder careers.

Other assistance for first responders developed by Governor DeWine since taking office in 2019, includes the creation of the Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center, Ohio School Safety Center, Ohio Office of Law Enforcement Recruitment, Ohio Prisoner Extradition Reimbursement Program, Ohio Body-Worn Camera Grant Program, Ohio Ballistics Testing Initiative, Ohio Crime Lab Efficiency Program, Ohio Violent Crime Reduction Grant Program, Ohio Court Backlog Reduction Program, and the new eWarrant database.

Fulfilling God’s purpose by maintaining strong churches

By Pastor Ken Staley

Have you ever asked yourself, “What kind of church would this church be if everyone in this church was just like me?” Sobering, isn’t it? A chain is as strong as its weakest link and so are churches. The writer of Hebrews said, “Let’s consider how to spur each other on to love and good works and not neglect gathering together, like some do, but encourage each other, and all the more as you see The Day