Lima Mayor Sharetta Smith, right, poses for a picture at the America 250-Ohio event Thursday in Columbus.
Submitted photo from America 250-Ohio
LIMA — Cenovus Energy and the City of Lima will participate in Ohio’s signature event for the 250th birthday of the United States of America in two years.
Ohio’s Homecoming and Picnic will feature current and former Ohioans celebrating the semiquincentennial with community picnics across the state, including one in Lima.
“We’re looking forward to having our homecoming picnic and hope to set the standard for the event,” Smith said.
A group of speakers including Cenovus vice president of U.S. refining Eric Zimpfer, Smith and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine spoke at the announcement event Thursday in Columbus.
“We are proud to partner with America 250-Ohio to inspire Ohioans across the state to gather and celebrate in July 2026,” Zimpfer said in the announcement. “We are dedicated to energizing the world to make people’s lives better, and our sponsorship of Ohio’s Homecoming and Picnic demonstrates our belief in and appreciation of the communities across the state that we serve.”
Gatherings will take place in all 88 counties of the state thanks to a Visionary Sponsorship by Cenovus and a homecoming kit provided by America 250-Ohio, including decor items, game supplies and other accessories for any community groups interested in organizing a July 2026 picnic.
Smith announced a $500,000 donation from Cenovus in her speech.
“We appreciate having Cenovus as an important part of Lima’s economy,” she said.
The sponsorship will offer funding for planning and community outreach, communication and coordination, supplies and materials.
The America 250-Ohio committee also announced picnics in Columbus, Dublin, Toledo, Marion, Newark, New Philadelphia, and Wilberforce.
For more information about America 250-Ohio, visit bit.ly/3BpxJ1a.
Reach Jacob Espinosa at 567-242-0399.
