(From the Ohio Department of Health)

Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA, announced a measles outbreak in Ashtabula County and one confirmed case of a visitor in Knox County who exposed others to measles in Knox and nearby counties.

Dr. Vanderhoff said ODH and Ashtabula County have identified 10 measles cases. Nine are linked to an adult male reported last week as the state’s first measles case of 2025. None of the individuals were vaccinated.

“Given the measles activity in Texas, New Mexico, and other states around the country, we’re disappointed but not surprised we now have several cases here in Ohio and known exposure in some counties,” said Dr. Vanderhoff. “This disease can be very serious, even deadly, but it is almost entirely avoidable by being properly vaccinated. Measles is especially dangerous for young children, so I strongly urge all parents across Ohio to make sure your children are vaccinated. It is a crucial layer of protection that can save lives.” 

ODH is working with health departments in Ashtabula and Knox counties to follow up on potential exposures and to promote opportunities for vaccination. For more information, visit ashtabulacountyhealth.com and knoxhealth.com.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines a measles outbreak as three or more related cases. Measles can spread quickly, and each case can lead to an additional 12 to 18 cases if people aren’t protected against the disease. The CDC reported 378 cases nationwide as of March 20.

Ohio had 90 cases of measles in 2022, when an outbreak in central Ohio totaled 85 cases. The state had one measles case in 2023 and seven in 2024.

Measles is extremely contagious and can spread to others through coughing and sneezing. It can be brought into Ohio by individuals who travel to places where measles is spreading. If people are not protected against the disease, nine out of 10 people who are exposed will become ill.

The measles vaccine (called MMR as it protects against measles, mumps and rubella) is safe and effective at preventing measles. Two doses of MMR is 97% effective against measles. If you are up to date on measles vaccine, the risk of getting sick is extremely low.

The CDC recommends all children get two doses of MMR vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age. 

 In most instances, adults who were vaccinated against measles as children do not need any additional doses as adults. However, adults who did not receive the MMR vaccine as children or those who are unsure about their vaccination status are encouraged to talk to their healthcare provider for more information.

 Those born prior to 1957 are likely protected by previous infection.

 The measles virus can live for up to two hours in air where an infected person coughed or sneezed. If other people breathe the contaminated air or touch an infected surface and then touch their eyes, noses, or mouths, they can become infected. People infected with measles can spread it to others from four days before, through four days after a rash appears.

 Measles symptoms include a rash, high fever, runny nose, cough, loss of appetite and red, watery eyes. The rash usually lasts five to six days and begins at the hairline, moves to the face and upper neck, and proceeds down the body. Diarrhea and ear infections are common complications of measles. More severe complications may also occur.

 Complications from measles are more common among children younger than 5 years of age, adults older than 20 years of age, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems. As many as one out of every 20 children with measles gets pneumonia, the most common cause of death from measles in young children.

 Dr. Vanderhoff held a news conference on March 18 to discuss Ohio’s childhood immunization rates and to urge parents to get their children up to date on all recommended vaccines, including the MMR vaccine. You can find the video of that news conference on the ODH YouTube channel.

 More information about measles is available on the CDC website, including general information and the recommended immunization schedule. ODH also has a measles FAQ page.

(From Cory-Rawson Local Schools)

Cory-Rawson Local Schools held its third annual Amazing Shake event on March 26, 2025.  The Amazing Shake gives seventh grade students an opportunity to be authentically assessed on skills from their year-long Thrive class.  Thrive is based on the district’s Portrait of a Hornet attributes of communication, relationship-building, critical thinking, and resilience.

All seventh graders begin the day in the first round, the Gauntlet.  Featuring 20 stations, students perform a variety of impromptu tasks including problem-solving, solving a customer service issue, responding to a rude restaurant server, making a medical appointment via phone, and a variety of interviews.  Volunteer community partners from a number of companies and organizations judge each station.

Eleven students advanced to the second round during which students mingled with judges while eating appetizers.  Hanna’Qmori Davis, Dale Jamison, and Lilly Reese moved on to the final round.  Emceed by Sheriff Mike Cortez, the final round took place in the auditorium where the finalists were interviewed by Sheriff Cortez in front of the junior high student body and three judges.

Congratulations to Hanna’Qmori Davis who was named the winner of the 2025 Cory-Rawson Amazing Shake.  She is the daughter of Kelly Davis.  Hanna said, “This is such an honor. I’m so happy to be here.”

(From the Findlay Fire Department)

3/13/2025 was Firefighter Dustin Ruehle’s 30th anniversary on the Findlay Fire Department.

He has been “Badge 1” (the most-senior firefighter) since 2023.

The FFD is indebted to Dustin; he was the initial driving force behind our cancer-prevention program before it became a fire service priority.

Congrats on your anniversary, Dustin, and thanks for your continued service, guidance & friendship.

(From Blanchard Valley Health System)

HANCO Emergency Medical Services (EMS), a division of Blanchard Valley Health, is set to become one of the first EMS providers in Ohio to offer field blood transfusions, a groundbreaking intervention to improve survival rates for patients suffering from severe blood loss.

Also known as prehospital blood transfusions (PHBT), this procedure enables first responders to administer blood in the field, helping to replace lost volume, restore oxygen delivery, and stabilize patients before they reach a hospital. This intervention is especially critical in trauma cases, remote areas, and emergencies where rapid access to a medical facility is delayed.

“We plan to have this program up and running by the beginning of May,” said Kent Appelhans, director and chief of HANCO EMS. “We have already ordered the necessary equipment and will train our paramedics in the appropriate care protocols. This initiative reinforces our commitment to providing our community the highest level of care.”

Field blood transfusions utilize different types of blood products depending on the situation. Whole blood is the most effective, as it contains red blood cells, plasma, and platelets, mimicking what the patient has lost. Administering blood in the field requires a thorough assessment of a patient’s vitals, including blood pressure, heart rate, and signs of shock. Specialized blood warmers are often needed to prevent hypothermia, and patients are closely monitored for any potential transfusion reactions, which remain rare when using pre-screened donor blood.

Despite its life-saving potential, implementing prehospital blood transfusions comes with challenges, including logistical considerations, the short shelf life of blood products, and the need for specialized storage and warming equipment. However, HANCO EMS is fully prepared to meet these challenges.

“We have acquired the necessary equipment to ensure the success of this program and make an immediate impact in our community,” added Appelhans. “By administering blood in the field, we can significantly improve survival rates for trauma patients and further enhance emergency medical care in the region.”

With this initiative, HANCO EMS joins a select group of emergency medical providers nationwide pioneering this advanced level of prehospital care, demonstrating a strong commitment to innovation, rapid response, and patient-centered outcomes.

For more information about HANCO EMS and its services, please visit bvhealthsystem.org.

(From the Ohio Department of Transportation)

HANCOCK COUNTY: State Route 37 safety improvement

SR 37 between SR 15 and CR 180 will close on Monday, March 31, for approximately 45 days to widen the roadway, add edge and centerline rumble strips, and replace guardrails.

Detour: SR 15 to U.S. 68 to I-75 to SR 12, back to SR 37

(From Hancock County ADAMHS)

A public health collaboration that has helped Hancock County residents “clean out their medicine cabinets” is still going strong.

Since 2012, the partnership between the University of Findlay College of Pharmacy, Findlay Police Department, and Hancock ADAMHS has collected and destroyed over six tons of unwanted, outdated or unused prescriptions and other drugs during curbside drop-off events and through donation drop boxes.

U of F’s Tim Burkart says residents help keep medicines out of the wrong hands and from contaminating the environment by turning them back in when they are no longer needed.

“It’s remarkable what’s been accomplished over the years,” he said. “I think through the take-back events people have become better informed about items that they don’t need to keep around their homes.”

Statistics from collection events, including “Take it to the Box,” suggest awareness is growing.

The community has turned in over 13,000 pounds of prescriptions and other-the-counter products, including 2,100 pounds in 2016 alone.

“I think people are more aware of the importance of properly disposing of certain items since the effort began,” Burkart said. “They’re keeping up.”

Crime prevention officer Brian White of the Findlay Police Department agrees the public has responded well to the program.

“From my observations, the majority of those that come through the collection points are seniors. In many cases, they have acquired a large amount of medications that go unused and know they need to get rid of them. The collection drive gives them a convenient way to get rid of them.”

The drop-off events make it easy for people to participate as they don’t even have to get out of their car. Medications are handed to a volunteer for disposal.

After collecting them, the items are later incinerated.

The first drop-off event of 2025 will be held on Saturday, April 26, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at the Findlay Municipal Building parking lot on Crawford Street.

A second drop-off will be on Oct. 25 at the same location.

For those unable to attend the events, residents also can dispose of unneeded medications in marked boxes located in the lobbies at the Findlay Municipal Building and the lobby at the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office.

Seven pharmacies in the county also have boxes for those looking to dispose of unneeded prescriptions and other meds.

Burkart believes the collection efforts are worth continuing each year and encourages community participation.

“It is still an important thing for the community to participate in,” Burkart said. “I think most people realize the benefits.”

White also applauds the public buy-in of the take-back efforts.

“I would reiterate that medication needs to be disposed of appropriately and remind citizens that collection boxes are always available for disposal.”

(From Tiffin Police Chief David Pauly)

Please join me in congratulating Lieutenant Jake DeMonte and Sergeant Jared Watson on reaching an incredible milestone—20 years of dedicated service with the Tiffin Police Department. Their unwavering commitment to our community, leadership within the department, and extensive contributions to public safety are truly commendable.

Lieutenant Jake DeMonte began his career with Tiffin Police in 2005. His dedication and leadership earned him promotions to Sergeant in 2015 and Lieutenant in 2021. Over the years, Lt. DeMonte has served in numerous specialized roles, including K9 Officer, Special Response Team (SRT) member and commander, and Drug Recognition Expert, where he played a critical role in identifying drug-impaired drivers. He currently serves as the Patrol Lieutenant, overseeing operations with professionalism and integrity. Throughout his career, Lt. DeMonte has received numerous department commendations and awards, including the rarely awarded Leadership Award in 2024—a testament to his exceptional service.

Sergeant Jared Watson also began his career with the Tiffin Police Department in 2005 and was promoted to Sergeant in 2013. As a shift supervisor, Sgt. Watson has demonstrated outstanding leadership, but his impact extends far beyond his daily duties. He is a longtime member and current Team Leader of the Hostage Negotiations Team (HNT), as well as the Emergency Response Unit’s Drone Team Coordinator. His dedication to community engagement is evident through his leadership in the Citizen’s Academy and Safety City program, helping to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the citizens we serve. Sgt. Watson’s contributions have earned him numerous commendations, including the prestigious Mayor’s Award.

The dedication and professionalism of these two officers have played an essential role in making Tiffin a safer and stronger community. Please join me in celebrating Lt. DeMonte and Sgt. Watson for their 20 years of outstanding service—and hopefully many more to come!

Chief Pauly

Tiffin Police Department

The Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) and the Bluffton Center for Entrepreneurs (BCE) are pleased to announce the appointment of Rene Gabriel as Assistant Director. In this newly established role, Ms. Gabriel will support both organizations in their missions to foster economic growth and entrepreneurial development within the Bluffton community.​

Ms. Gabriel brings a wealth of experience in business development, community engagement, and organizational leadership. Her background includes significant achievements in strategic planning and program management, which align seamlessly with the objectives of both the BACC and the BCE.​

The Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce serves as a central hub for local businesses, providing networking opportunities, resources, and advocacy to promote a vibrant economic environment in Bluffton, Ohio. The Bluffton Center for Entrepreneurs, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit business incubator, offers programs that support young businesses, accelerate their growth, and increase their chances of success.

Executive Director James Enneking expressed enthusiasm about the new addition to the team: “​We are thrilled to welcome Rene Gabriel as our Assistant Director. Her expertise and dedication will undoubtedly enhance our efforts to support local businesses and entrepreneurs, driving economic development in our community.”

Ms. Gabriel’s appointment underscores the commitment of both organizations to strengthen Bluffton’s business landscape by providing robust support and resources to local enterprises.

(From Findlay Municipal Court)

The Findlay Municipal Court will once again be conducting its 8th Annual Safe Surrender Day on April 7, 2025 from 9:00am – 4:00pm in conjunction with Second Chance Month.

April is Second Chance Month, which aims to inform and highlight the many opportunities for state and local governments and community-based service providers to build meaningful second chances for our community members.

Over the past seven years, the court has cleared over 600 bench warrants and assisted over 500 individuals to clear up their legal issues.

Safe Surrender Day has been a great success for the court, law enforcement and the community by reducing the number of active bench warrants issued to area law enforcement and affording offenders a chance to address their legal issues without immediately going to jail.

Individuals with active FINDLAY MUNICIPAL COURT bench warrants who report to the Court on that day will not be arrested and will work with designated court staff to clear their warrants.

Some examples include:

-Individuals who failed to attend a court hearing will be seen by the Judge, Magistrate or court staff that day.

-Individuals who failed to perform community service will be reassigned to a work location. If the individual missed a community service contempt hearing, the hearing will be conducted to and the person will be permitted to reschedule their community service;

-Individuals who did not complete counseling for mental health or substance abuse will be allowed to re-engage in treatment.

-Individuals who did not attend a status conference will meet with a magistrate or court staff to review their financial ability to pay outstanding fines and to establish a new payment plan;

-Individuals who did not report to serve a jail sentence will be issued a new date to report;

Staff from the City of Findlay Law Director’s Office will be available along with staff from the Hancock County Public Defender’s Office to meet with their clients. Upon reporting to the Court on Safe Surrender Day, the warrant will be lifted and recalled from law enforcement.

This is a one day only event. The Court currently has over 2800 active bench warrants. Individuals who are unsure if they have an outstanding bench warrant can view a list of active Findlay Municipal Court warrants at:

https://xfoien2k.findlayohio.gov/Warrants/Active

Appointments are preferred but walk-ins are also accepted. To schedule an appointment or for more information call the Clerk’s office at 419-424-7141.

(From the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts)

Heather J. Clow, Executive Director of Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, has been selected as a member of the 2025 Cohort of the CreativeOhio Advocacy Leadership Institute (ALI), a new initiative designed to empower arts leaders across the state with advocacy skills, legislative insights, and statewide connections. Clow is one of 25 leaders chosen through a competitive application process, representing 15 cities across Ohio. 

Launching in May 2025, ALI is a six-month immersive program that provides arts and culture professionals with the tools and knowledge to advocate effectively for Ohio’s creative sector. Participants will engage in hands-on workshops, site visits to cultural hubs, and in-depth discussions on legislative processes, public funding, and advocacy strategies.  

“The CreativeOhio Advocacy Leadership Institute is more than just a training program—it’s a movement to increase civic literacy and democratic engagement across our sector,” said Sarah Sisser, Executive Director & CEO of CreativeOhio. “This inaugural cohort represents an esteemed and passionate group of leaders dedicated to strengthening Ohio’s creative economy and ensuring the arts have a seat at the table in policy discussions.” 

Throughout the program, ALI members will collaborate with policymakers, industry experts, and fellow arts leaders to develop strategies that support the sustainability and growth of Ohio’s creative industries. The cohort includes professionals from a range of disciplines, from performing arts organizations to visual arts institutions and independent artists. 

“This opportunity will allow me to expand my advocacy skills, connect with leaders across the state, and ensure that MCPA plays a key role in advancing Ohio’s creative sector,” Clow said. 

The CreativeOhio Advocacy Leadership Institute is made possible with support from The George Gund Foundation, Greater Cincinnati Foundation, Greater Columbus Arts Council, and Edwards Companies. 

For more information about the CreativeOhio Advocacy Leadership Institute and to see the full cohort, visit creativeoh.org.