Inspire Toronto Concerts return with patriotic kickoff June 30

TORONTO — The annual Inspire Toronto Concerts at the Gazebo series will return next week with a patriotic kickoff event featuring music, community performances and a tribute to America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.

The series opens Tuesday, June 30, at the Toronto Gazebo with activities beginning at 6 p.m. A patriotic presentation will be held from 6-6:30 p.m. at the World War I monument, followed by performances by the Tri-State Community Concert Band and Community Choir from 6:30-7:30 p.m. and the Ron Retzer Trio from 7:30-9 p.m.

The free summer concert series will continue Wednesdays from 7-9 p.m. through Aug. 26 at the gazebo.

Scheduled performers include Linden & Melvin on July 8; Bill Crawford’s Johnny Cash Tribute and the Honky Tonk Sweethearts on July 15; Jimmy Lee Hook on July 22; Chelsea Householder and The Remainders on July 29; Mad River Men on Aug. 5; The Fantasy’s on Aug. 12; Night Moves on Aug. 19; and Pocket Change on Aug. 26.

Organizers encourage residents and visitors to bring lawn chairs and enjoy an evening of free live entertainment throughout the summer.

Summer Crisis Program offers utility assistance for eligible residents

STEUBENVILLE — The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and the Jefferson County Community Action Council are again offering assistance to help Ohio families stay cool during the summer months.

From July 1 through Sept. 30, income-eligible Ohioans can receive help paying electric bills, purchasing air conditioners or fans or making repairs to central air conditioning systems through the Home Energy Assistance Summer Crisis Program.

The program assists low-income households or those with a disconnection notice, service shutoff, need for new electric service, need for air conditioning or households with a member age 60 or older or a member with a documented medical condition. Qualifying conditions include lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma.

To qualify, households must have a gross income at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines for families of up to seven members or 60% of the state median income for families of eight or more. For a family of four, the annual income limit is $57,750.

Last year, the program assisted more than 55,000 Ohio households, providing $12.4 million in benefits.

Appointments are required through the Jefferson County Community Action Council and can be scheduled by calling 740-996-9062.

GIS Committee to meet

STEUBENVILLE — The GIS Committee will meet Thursday, June 25, at 11 a.m. in the Probate Conference Room on the fourth floor of the courthouse.