Arby's is launching a national community/fundraiser in Arby's restaurants to raise money and awareness for youth-mentoring. Through June 30, customers of Arby's in Portsmouth, New Boston and Wheelersburg may donate $1 and sign a "Help Us Help Kids" pin-up to hang on the walls of the restaurant. Money raised will support South Central Ohio Big Brothers Big Sisters programs.

"We are challenging all members of the Portsmouth, New Boston and Wheelersburg communities to reach out and lend a hand to our children by making a donation at the local Arby's," said Karen McDonald-Myers, executive director of South Central Ohio Big Brothers Big Sisters. "This fundraiser is an important part of our agency's funding."

Junior fair queen contest begins

Applications now are available for the Scioto County Junior Fair Queen contest. The contest is open to Scioto County girls, between 16 and 19 years of ages, as of Jan. 1. Contestants must be a member or an alumnus of one or more of the organizations represented by the Junior Fair Board - 4-H, Girl Scouts, FCCLA, FFA and VICA.

Applications now are available at the Scioto County Extension Office, Scioto County Courthouse, Room 7, 602 Seventh St., or on the Web site http://scioto.osu.edu/4h/4h.htm and are due June 9.

The contest will be conducted at 6 p.m. June 24, at Scioto County Welcome Center, 342 Second St. A $2 per person or $7 per family donation would be appreciated. For further information, contact OSU Extension Office at (740) 354-7879.

Leslie benefit set for today

A benefit fundraiser for Deke Leslie will be from 1 to 6 p.m. today, at the old Otway School gym, Ohio 73, Otway. There will be entertainment, raffles, door prizes, split the pot, auction and refreshments available. For more information, call (740) 259-6341, (740) 259-0691 or (740) 372-0351.

From PDT staff reports