Ohio Governor Mike DeWine Week in Review

Governor DeWine attended the unveiling of Sugarcreek Township’s new Veterans Memorial, which features a statue of  Jim “Pee Wee” Martin. Pee Wee and his comrades were wonderful examples of what our greatest generation represented, and the creation of this memorial ensures that our state and nation will never forget the essential lessons learned during World War II.

Lt. Governor Tressel helped kick off Columbus Navy Week thanking the men and women who devote their lives to defending our nation's freedom every day.

Governor DeWine and Ohio Department of Natural Resources Director Mary Mertz announced the launch of a new barge dedicated to beautifying the Ohio River as part of the H2Ohio Initiative. 

The beautification barge is a custom-built, 30-foot vessel equipped with a hydraulic crane capable of picking up large debris and trash in the river and on the riverbank that may have floated downstream from illegal dumpsites. 

“This is an innovative project that involves community support, which is what we like to see in our H2Ohio projects,” said Governor DeWine. “This boat will be able to assist in large-scale clean-up projects for years to come. Keeping the Ohio River clean and clear of litter is critical for preserving our natural resources for future generations."

Governor DeWine joined local leaders in Portsmouth to break ground on a transformational riverfront project along the Ohio River, made possible through a $34.2 million grant from the Appalachian Community Grant Program’s Wonderful Waterfront Initiative.  

Key elements of the project include a reimagined Alexandra Point Park with a new scenic riverfront overlook; an amphitheater for concerts, festivals, and community events; a new riverwalk trail network; an RV campground; and improved access to the river.

“Through the Wonderful Waterfronts Initiative, we are not just revitalizing our riverfronts, we are reconnecting communities to their natural heritage, sparking new economic opportunities, and creating spaces that everyone can enjoy,” said Governor DeWine. 

Governor DeWine, First Lady Fran DeWine, state leaders, and local partners celebrated the opening of the new I-70 westbound rest area in Zanesville.

“Our rest areas provide a much-needed service to travelers, and they are also a great opportunity to highlight the amazing attractions across our beautiful state that make Ohio, The Heart of It All,” said Governor DeWine.

The Muskingum County rest area includes information about Zanesville, Newark, and Lancaster. It features attractions like The Wilds, the Y-Bridge, Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks, The Works, two Underground Railroad sites, Hocking Hills, and other nearby state parks and nature preserves.

Governor and First Lady DeWine attended the Women Who Mean Business Luncheon where Barbara Mills was awarded the Jane Haley Award. Mills selected Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Ohio to receive her award check of $10,000. This luncheon was hosted by the Dayton Business Journal.

Governor DeWine and Brig. Gen. Matthew Woodruff presented Maj. Gen. John C. Harris Jr. (Ret.) with the Distinguished Service Medal. This prestigious award is given to individuals who have performed exceptionally meritorious service in a position of great responsibility on behalf of the U.S. government. With serving more than 44 years in the U.S. Army, including serving as Ohio’s Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Harris exemplifies this honor.

Governor DeWine highlighted resources for Suicide Prevention Month this September to help Ohioans take meaningful steps toward preventing suicide and supporting mental health. 

Lt. Governor Tressel spoke at the Construction Employers Association Building Excellence & Craftsmanship Awards Banquet in Cleveland. 

Governor DeWine and First Lady DeWine visited the Warren Local School District in Washington County to celebrate the grand opening of the district's new school-based health clinic. 

The new Warrior Care Clinic was built with funding from a $1.3 million grant awarded as part of Governor DeWine's Appalachian Children's Health Initiative.  Through a partnership with Hopewell Health Centers, the clinic will offer primary and behavioral healthcare for Warren Local School District students, staff, and families. The clinic is also open to the public. 

"This effort was born out of our commitment to ensuring every child in Ohio's Appalachian region has the resources they need to live up to their God-given potential," said Governor DeWine. "Every child should have the same ability to see a doctor, get well, and get back to learning."

Governor DeWine announced the appointment of Christopher McDowell to the Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas, General Division.

McDowell, of Cincinnati, will assume office on September 8, 2025 and will be taking the seat formerly held by Judge Tom Heekin, who has retired. He will serve the remainder of the unfinished term and will run for election in November 2026.

Lt. Governor Tressel helped cut the ribbon on the new NEOMED Bitonte College of Dentistry in Rootstown. 

Governor DeWine joined local leaders, educators, and students to celebrate the $6 million medical facility expansion project at the Buckeye Career Center (BCC) in New Philadelphia.

The $6 million project, supported by the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC) Career Technical Construction Program, adds new space with modernized classrooms to prepare students for in-demand careers. 

“This investment is about creating opportunities for students to graduate with skills that lead directly to meaningful careers,” said Governor DeWine. “By expanding programs like these, we’re helping ensure that Ohio’s workforce is ready for the jobs of today and tomorrow.”