Elks presents grant to Artists' Open Studio

NORWALK — The Norwalk Elks Lodge No. 730 recently presented a grant of $7,500 to Artists' Open Studio (AOS). The grant money was obtained from the Cerebral Palsy Committee of the State of Ohio Elks Association. The grant was applied for and obtained for the purpose of providing new equipment and resources for AOS in order to continue its for work in providing local adult artists with developmental disabilities a space to express themselves through art. AOS has been active in the Norwalk community since 2004 and is currently serving over 40 artists as well as maintaining a steady waitlist of artists who are eager to participate. President of the AOS board of directors, Lindsey Esker, said community involvement and support for AOS has continued to increase over the 18 years they have been active in the area. With that growth has come increased financial support which, in turn, has allowed the relocation to their Main Street Studio in Norwalk. This new space is key in not only increasing AOS's visibility but allowing for the full realization of their mission. The Main Street Studio, located next to the Norwalk Reflector at 32 E. Main St., is a gallery, a working art studio, a local event center and a retail space. Overdose Awareness Day BELLEVUE — The Animal House Sober Club presents the Bellevue Overdose Awareness Day from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 27, at Central Park, 215 North St., Bellevue.