DeWine: not a drill. Not a Hoax. Not a Dress Rehearsal. It’s the Real Thing.

Presented by Hometown-Motors, Inc.

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—In a statewide address from his office in the Statehouse tonight Governor DeWine said that the state is at a critical point in the COVID-19 pandemic and implored Ohioans to take appropriate action to reverse the rapidly increasing spread of the virus.

“Today, more Ohioans are getting sick than at any previous point in this pandemic. We are sliding down a very dangerous path, with our once flattened-curve starting to sharpen and spike,” said Governor DeWine. “This is a worrisome, disturbing reversal of our progress — a jarring reminder of just how quickly our fate can change.”

READ THE ENTIRE ADDRESS HERE

Governor DeWine commended Ohioans for doing their part at the beginning of the pandemic. However, with positive cases increasing, he reminded Ohioans that the choices they make today will impact the spread of the virus in the coming weeks. During the speech, grounded in scientific evidence and data, Governor DeWine reminded Ohioans about the efficacy of facial coverings to protect themselves, loved ones, friends, neighbors and other citizens. He also renewed the call to socially distance and limit public gatherings.

“I am calling on all Ohioans to once again unite. We must work together, support each other, and help each other through this challenging time. I’ve seen you do this. I know you can do this. Ohioans can continue to help our most vulnerable, while also protecting ourselves and our families. Together, we can be the Ohio where our hospitals are not overwhelmed, where our schools can open, where sports can start, and where our economy can continue to grow, Governor DeWine added.

A video of the address is available on the Ohio Channel’s YouTube page
For more information about Covid-19, including testing locations, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Two More Events Cancelled Due to Pandemic Uncertainty

Presented by Hometown-Motors, Inc.

The Portsmouth River Days and 1st Capital Chili & Beer Fest have become casualties to the uncertainty created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Both events were scheduled in September.

Labor Day weekend. Portsmouth becomes a popular spot along the Ohio River, but the organizers posted on the event’s Facebook Page “Despite our best efforts, it has become clear that we will be required to cancel the 2020 River Days Festival.”

https://www.facebook.com/portsmouth.riverdays/posts/2856517934629901

Meanwhile, the annual chili-making competition presented by Chillicothe’s civic group The Cigar Band, now know as The 1st Capital Chili & Beer Fest, announced Wednesday of the cancellation of its September 26th event.

In a statement on Facebook, organizers cite “Continued concerns over the spread of COVID-19 and the safety of the community led The Chillicothe Cigar Band to make this decision.”

https://www.facebook.com/firstcapitalchilibeerfest/posts/164707868437585

Organizers tell Litter Media the 2020 music lineup of longtime Chili Fest staple Matt Salyers and Ben True have enthusiastically agreed to commit to performing at the 2021 event, scheduled for Saturday September 25th. Ben True was purchased by ERA Martin Realtors at Rock For Tots in 2019 to perform at this year’s now cancelled event.