Ohio Governor Mike DeWine hosted hundreds from across the State for his annual ice cream social at his private home in Cedarville.

In remarks at the casual event, DeWine celebrated America’s 250th anniversary, noting how important it is that we are celebrating the signing of the Declaration of Independence—not the end of the Revolutionary War—as the milestone.

“What binds us together is what we believe: freedom, liberty, the rule of law and freedom of speech,” the Governor said.

DeWine also read a quote from President Ronald Reagan, "The American character is proud and independent. It's one of this country's greatest assets. We came here from every land. We're the product of every culture and race. We came to be free and to better our lives and the lives of our families. And yet, we are all Americans. Our love of liberty and the values that flow from it unite us as a nation and a people."

The event featured ice cream from Young’s Jersey Dairy and pies made by Ohio First Lady Fran DeWine and her friends.

The event also included kids games, face painting, a sack race and pie eating contest. A display of baseball history from the private collection of an Ohio collector contributed to the all-American event.

Attendees were treated to a roaming barbershop quartet singing OSU football songs and a bluegrass band made up of Ohio musicians.

The event was not political, except for a few DeWine/Husted campaign shirts worn by attendees. DeWine, who is limited to two terms, will be stepping aside for a new Governor who will be elected in November.

A tour of the home included the Governor’s home office where he was sworn in for his second term.

Holly Michael, editor and publisher of the TWIN CREEK TIMES was invited to the event.

© 2026 Twin Creek Times