(By Sheri Trusty, Seneca County Sheriff’s Office Public Relations Coordinator)

The Seneca County Jail operates with a mission to offer programs that can help inmates improve their lives and prevent recidivism, but those programs require funding.

At the end of October, one of the jail’s most powerful programs, its Nurturing Parenting Program, will end due to a lack of funding. The program impacts incarcerated parents and their children, as well as their children’s future.

The Nurturing Parenting Program is an accredited, evidence-based child abuse and prevention program for fathers and mothers that was instituted in the jail in February and is taught by certified instructor, Jami Hill.

Hill is a CARES Coordinator with Seneca County Family and Children First Council (FCFC). Seneca County Jail Case Manager Grace Morehart spent the last several months watching the program change lives.

“We have a lot of people come in with active Child Protective Services (CPS) cases. If a parent is in the system, their child is more likely to end up in the system,” Morehart said. “Jami teaches them how to be better parents, and it helps prevent their children from ending up here. Not having this class is a big loss, especially since it’s an accredited course.”

During the Oct. 1 classes, Hill taught about dealing with the stress of raising children. She explained coping mechanisms that can help during high-emotion moments, and she talked about the consequences of uncontrolled anger, like shaken baby syndrome. Hill teaches on a variety of topics, including child development, discipline techniques, and instilling self-worth in children and in themselves.

The program has changed family dynamics, helping inmates break generational behaviors and giving their children a better life now and a chance at a better future.

“I’ve learned how to understand my son a hundred times better,” one inmate said. “I learned how his brain develops and how he processes things, and I learned how to communicate with him better. It’s made me more patient with him.”

Another inmate said the class helped her understand herself better. By recognizing her unhealthy motivations and reactions, she’s making better choices as she communicates with her children, even now, while she’s in jail.

“I’ve learned how to process things better. It’s been a great class,” she said. “My relationship with my kids is better, and that wouldn’t have happened without this class.”

Hill worked for many years as a CPS investigator, where she could not help families until after a problem occurred. Through the parenting program, she can help prevent problems that can devastate families.

“I was working for a reactive agency, and what I love about this program is, it’s preventative,” Hill said. “We reached out to the jail to start this program because many of the kids we work with at FCFC deal with parental incarceration.”

FCFC Executive Director Sandy Hallett Berkey said the Nurturing Parenting Program is part of FCFC’s reentry program, which empowers inmates with resources to fuel post-incarceration success. It helps inmates recognize unhealthy behaviors and become strong parents who won’t find themselves contacted by the Department of Job and Family Services, which manages CPS.

“We give them new tools because sometimes they don’t even know the tools they have are wrong,” Hallett said. “We’re trying to keep them out of the doors of JFS.”

Hallett recently learned that grants she hoped would fund the program were denied, so she and Morehart are hoping to find a funding source to keep the program operating at the Seneca County Jail past October. Losing the program can affect generations.

“This program is helping women, men, and children, and it’s impacting the children’s futures,” Morehart said.

In the end, that impact reaches across Seneca County. Children on a path to follow their parents’ footsteps into jail have a new, healthier foundation for their lives. On Oct. 1, the women in the parenting class talked about their efforts to create better lives for their children by implementing the things they were learning.

The women don’t want jail to be a place that will one day find their children, also. They want their children to grow up and view the Seneca County Jail as the place that empowered their parents to break generational behaviors that set the whole family free.

(From the University of Findlay)

The University of Findlay will host Homecoming and Family Weekend 2025 from October 9 to 12, with a talented group of students reigning on the Homecoming Court.

“These outstanding student leaders exemplify the qualities of leadership, spirit, integrity, and achievement through their contributions and involvement at UF – and we are so proud to call them Oilers,” said Lee Ann Ireland, director of UF’s Wolfe Center for Alumni, Parents, and Friends.

The Homecoming Court members are all seniors, who were nominated and elected by their fellow students, faculty, and staff.

Jenna Ditmer, an animal science/pre-vet major from Eaton, Ohio, serves as a Bible study leader and Revive worship leader, as well as treasurer of Delta Tau Alpha agricultural honor society, a resident assistant, and a coach of the men’s club volleyball team. She is a member of the junior varsity volleyball team, Delta Tau Alpha, and Beta Beta Beta honor societies. She has been recognized with multiple scholarships and awards, including the Trustees’ Scholarship.

Isiah Hall, of Castalia, Ohio is majoring in physical therapy and serves as president of the Student Government Association after holding roles as sergeant at arms and freshman senator. He has been a resident director and resident assistant. He serves as public relations manager for the Pre-Physical Therapy Club, while pursuing undergraduate research with assistant professor Bart Welte, Ed.D., on neuro-physical therapy interventions for spinal conditions.

Andrea Hoffman, of Latrobe, Pennsylvania, is a member of the UF women’s swimming and diving team, competing in distance freestyle events, and teaches swim lessons. A journalism/digital media major, she is a student reporter for UFTV, covering football from the sidelines, providing play-by-play for women’s lacrosse, and interviewing athletes and coaches. She contributes to The Pulse student newspaper and serves as treasurer for the Pulse Media Club. She was named the 2024–2025 Pulse Media Student of the Year and is an active member of Sigma Kappa sorority.

Bryan Hunt, a strength and conditioning major from Chicago, Illinois, has been involved with Black Student Union and Warriors Word. As a member of the Oilers football team, he earned

Second Team All-Conference for 2024-25. He was named to the Dean’s List in 2022 and 2023, and received the President’s Scholarship and multiple football scholarships.

Molly Kautz, a wellness and health promotion major from Croswell, Michigan, has participated in the Oiler marching band for four years, serving as drum major for two years and band president for one year. She is a member of the UF wind ensemble and the jazz band. She is active in Catholic Student Fellowship and the Pre-Physical Therapy Organization as treasurer and president. She has been repeatedly named to the Dean’s List and received endowed awards supporting musical arts students.

Kaylie McCann, of Clinton, Ohio, is pursuing degrees in animal science pre-vet and biology. She has served the City Mission of Findlay for four years through meal service, donation drives, and outreach events, and is president of UF’s City Mission Club. In Campus Ministries, she has participated in Follow First, girls group Bible studies, and she mentors new students. She has served as a resident assistant and resident director.

Caitlynn Noble, an animal science/pre-vet major from Oak Harbor, Ohio, is president of the Mortar Board honor society, treasurer of Unwinding at UF, and is working to recolonize the Theta Nu chapter of Phi Sigma Sigma. Caitlynn is in her third year as drum major of the Oiler marching band, plays oboe in the wind ensemble, and has twice represented UF at the OPCICA Honor Band. She is a member of Delta Tau Alpha and Beta Beta Beta honor societies and participates in Campus Ministries and Euler Math Club.

Kaylee Pajor, a business analytics major from Amherst, Ohio, is an active member of Business Oriented Women, participates in intramural sand volleyball, and is the student representative from the College of Business for the Alumni Board of Governors. She has received the Trustees’ Scholarship, Leadership Participation Scholarship, the Samuel Fittante Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund, and she is a Dana Scholar.

Dominiq Reagh is a strength and conditioning major from Grand Rapids, Michigan. A three-year member of the Oiler soccer team, he founded and serves as president of the men’s club volleyball team. He has been a resident assistant, volunteer coach for UF’s JV volleyball team, and member of the Revive worship service sound and welcome teams. His honors include Dean’s List and NCAA All-Conference All-Academic Team recognition, as well as the Trustees’ Scholarship and UF Christian Fellowship Scholarship.

Nathan Zuercher, a business administration management major from Wooster, Ohio, is a linebacker on the UF football team and lead assistant equipment manager. He serves as a resident assistant, an Oiler 10 consulting agent, and active leader in Campus Ministry, where he helps guide the UF Huddle. He has received the Trustees’ Scholarship, football scholarship, and multiple endowed awards honoring leadership and Christian service.

Members of the Homecoming royalty will be announced during the UF-Hillsdale football game on Saturday, October 11, at 2 p.m., at Donnell Stadium.

UF alumni, friends, families, and community members are invited to be part of this year’s Homecoming celebration. Additional information and registration for events can be found on the Homecoming and Family Weekend webpage: www.findlay.edu/homecoming.

Homecoming events and information are also available on the Oiler Mobile App, which is free to download in the App Store and Play Store.

(From ADDAPTCO)

ADDAPTCO, a local nonprofit that supports children and adults with developmental disabilities is hosting its 9th Annual Fall Fest on Saturday, October 11th from 1–4 PM at the Legacy Pavilion, Hancock County Fairgrounds.

Fall Fest is free, sensory-friendly, and open to everyone. Guests can enjoy:

• Train rides
• Games & activities
• Pumpkin painting
• Crafts for kids
• New this year: Trunk or Treat!

The event celebrates inclusion and community, drawing hundreds of families from Hancock County and beyond.

Get more details by clicking here.

(From the City of Findlay)

If you see a problem, help us keep our community in great shape by submitting it through our Report a Problem page!

With 197 miles of roads within City limits, our hardworking crews can’t be everywhere at once — that’s where you come in.

When you submit an issue through the form, our team is notified right away and can quickly dispatch the right department to take care of it.

You can report things like:

-Potholes

-Sign or signal issues

-Visibility concerns at intersections

-Debris or litter

-Sewer or drainage problems

-Park maintenance needs

…and much more!

Submit your report by clicking here! Thank you for helping us keep the City safe and clean.

(ONN) – Road work in Ohio has become a dangerous job with speed, distractions and drug use increasing the number of roadside crews getting struck.

So far this year, 87 ODOT crews have been hit while working on the side of the road.

In all of 2024, there were 84 crews hit.

Many workers, even garage managers, say drivers have gotten more aggressive and impatient.

Throw in distracted driving and, in some cases, drug usage, and the numbers only keep adding up.

ODOT Press Secretary Matt Bruning is urging drivers to pay better attention on the roadways.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds all motorists to obey the state’s Move Over Law, which requires drivers to move over a lane and slow down when they see emergency vehicles and work crews on the side of the road.

Hancock County Auditor Charity Rauschenberg was on with WFIN’s Chris Oaks to discuss the 2025 Triennial update of property values.

The Triennial update comes amid a growing pushback on property taxes in Ohio with a citizen-led initiative to put a measure on the ballot eliminating property taxes and Governor DeWine forming a working group to give people some property tax relief.

Listen to Rauschenberg’s full interview with Chris in the audio file below.

As Auditor, Rauschenberg serves as Hancock County’s Chief Fiscal Officer, Chief Assessor, Chief Payroll Officer, and Sealer of Weights and Measures.

Click here for the Hancock County Auditor website.

Hancock County communities have released the dates and times for their Trick-or-Treat celebrations.

Findlay’s Trick-or-Treat will be held on Saturday, October 25 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Arlington’s will be on Thursday, October 30 from 6 to 8.

McComb’s will be on Friday, October 31 from 6 to 7.

See the full list of Trick-or-Treat dates and times below compiled by Visit Findlay.

And, of course, the 2025 Cops & Kids Findlay Halloween Parade will be held on Tuesday, October 21 beginning at 7 p.m.

The parade will head north on South Main Street from Sixth Street/Lake Cascades Parkway to Lima Street.

(From Blanchard Valley Health System)

Blanchard Valley Health System (BVHS) is making it easier than ever for patients to access care with the launch of online scheduling at its primary care offices. This new feature allows patients to book appointments directly through the organization’s website, adding convenience and flexibility to the communities BVHS serves.

With online scheduling, patients can now view real-time availability and reserve appointments for routine check-ups, follow-ups, and other primary care needs with just a few clicks. This enhancement allows patients to plan visits around work, school, and family commitments, reducing phone wait times and improving access to care.

In addition to adult primary care, online scheduling now includes pediatric appointments, offering parents a simple and reliable way to manage their children’s health. Parents can book visits online at their convenience, from routine check-ups and immunizations to school and sports physicals. This enhancement helps ensure children receive timely, consistent care while allowing families to fit appointments into busy schedules. By making pediatric scheduling more accessible, BVHS supports parents in keeping their children healthy and thriving.

“Primary care is the front door to health and wellness,” said Myron D. Lewis, president and CEO of BVHS. “By introducing online scheduling, we are removing barriers and making it simpler for patients to connect with the care they need, when they need it. This is one more way BVHS is delivering on our promise of patient-first care.”

Online scheduling builds on BVHS’s broader digital transformation strategy to expand access, reduce barriers, and enhance the overall patient experience. In the near future, BVHS will expand online scheduling to include mammography and other specialties.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to innovation with purpose,” said Gulshan Mehta, chief digital and information officer. “We designed this tool to be simple, intuitive, and accessible—empowering patients to take an active role in their health while ensuring care is always within reach.”

At BVHS, primary care physicians and providers are dedicated partners in each patient’s journey to better health. They assist with many acute and chronic health conditions, provide preventive care, and support patients in establishing long-term wellness goals.

BVHS currently offers primary care services in Bluffton, Carey, Findlay (EasternWoods), Findlay (Lake Cascades), Findlay (Wellness Park), Findlay (Caughman Health Center), Fostoria, Leipsic, McComb, North Baltimore, and Ottawa. Pediatric services are also offered in Bluffton (Bluffton Pediatrics), Findlay (Caughman Health Center), and Findlay (Wellness Park).

Patients can now schedule primary care appointments online at bvhealthsystem.org/primarycare.

(From the University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum)

A new exhibit, “A Storm of Horses: The Art of Ruth Sanderson,” will be unveiled at the University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum on Thursday, October 9.

Author/illustrator Sanderson will present her equine-themed work at an opening ceremony from 6 to 7 p.m. Following her presentation, there will be book sales and autographing in the Mazza Gift Shop.

The public is invited to learn more about her subject matter – French artist Rosa Bonheur, a unique 19th century painter of horses – and enjoy a campus visit of real-life horses, courtesy of UF’s equestrian program.

Dan Chudzinski, director of the Mazza Museum, said the exhibition features Sanderson’s original art – from storyboards and preliminaries to her final, published oil paintings.

“Ruth created an inspiring picture book telling the story of Rosa Bonheur, who wanted to be a famous painter in the 1800s, at a time when female artists typically painted scenes from family life,” he noted. “But Rosa was committed to capturing the unbridled wild beauty of horses.”

Sanderson’s book explains how Bonheur’s masterpiece, The Horse Fair, which is eight feet tall and 16 feet wide, propelled her to become a celebrated artist with paintings in museums and galleries worldwide. It is now on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

Sanderson has more than 90 published children’s books, including many fairy tales. She illustrated the first Black Stallion paperback covers and has illustrated many chapter book horse stories, including the Horse Diaries series.

A graduate of Paier School of Art in Connecticut, she has always loved horses, and her first oil painting at age 14 was a horse portrait, Chudzinski noted.

After visiting Mazza for the first time in 2022, Sanderson felt that her equine-themed illustrations should become part of the museum’s permanent collection, he explained.

“Ruth loves to share her artistic techniques to inspire other horse-loving young artists,” said Chudzinski, adding that Sanderson will be presenting to students from Arlington and Ridgedale schools earlier in the week.

She recently created a book Drawing Horses that is a guide to drawing realistic horses and suggested for aspiring artists ages 8 and older.

The “Storm of Horses” exhibition and event are part of UF’s Homecoming celebration that takes place from October 9 to 12.

The event is also a collaboration with and a prelude to the University equestrian studies program’s 50th anniversary that will be celebrated in 2026.

(From Bowling Green State University)

Bowling Green State University recently was selected as one of only eight universities nationwide and the only one in the Midwest to address an urgent need in higher education – ensuring that what students learn in the classroom directly translates to emerging workplace needs.  

BGSU is joining the first-ever National Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Accelerator, building on its existing strengths in career preparation – including its No. 1 ranking for career prep among all universities in Ohio and the innovative work of the Kuhlin Hub for Career Design and Connections to redefine student success and outcomes. 

The WIL Accelerator is a bold new initiative from Arizona State University designed to connect students with industry partners. It supports real-world projects and simulations, allowing students to apply their skills in practical, impactful ways and bridge the gap between their education and workforce readiness. 

“Bowling Green State University has long been a leader in work-based learning, establishing co-op programs nearly 60 years ago, and work-integrated learning is the next innovative step in elevating student learning, experiences and opportunities for the 21st century,” said BGSU President Rodney K. Rogers. “Bowling Green is uniquely positioned to continue to lead in this area – not only in Ohio, but the nation – with a proven ability of implementing transformational programs and bringing them to scale university-wide. We look forward to working across higher education and industry on this initiative as we collectively strengthen the role of higher education to drive innovation and economic vitality, driving relevancy and impact across the nation’s entire educational ecosystem.”

“At JPMorganChase, we are committed to expanding access to work-based learning opportunities that prepare students for the demands of today’s workforce,” said Rudy Bentlage, co-chair of JPMorganChase Ohio Market Leadership Team. “We are proud to support Arizona State University’s National Work-Integrated Learning Accelerator, which connects classroom learning with real-world industry challenges. By participating in this initiative, Bowling Green State University is empowering students to build meaningful career pathways and strengthening Ohio’s economic future.”

The WIL Accelerator initiative is supported by JPMorganChase and Strada Education Foundation. The accelerator aims to bring together higher education institutions, employers and education-technology startups to codesign and pilot innovative work-integrated learning models. 

As an inaugural member of the accelerator initiative, BGSU will work to build a sustainable framework of company-to-classroom partnerships that allow students to develop solutions for industry while also helping those companies meet short-term needs. 

The firsthand experience of working on projects for regional, statewide and national organizations reinforces the skills students learn in the classroom and provides a competitive edge as they seek internships and full-time careers.  

Dr. Gabe Dunbar, senior director of career design in the Kuhlin Career Hub, said work-integrated learning also promotes a more equitable learning environment, broadening opportunities across campus for students to prototype their careers and build a portfolio of relevant work experience. 

“Aside from the firsthand experience our students gain through work-integrated learning, they’re also building confidence, learning durable skills that employers demand and are expanding their professional networks, all of which can open the door to more opportunities,” Dunbar said. 

BGSU already has a strong pipeline of regional and national industry partners, with more than a dozen that engage with the University at its highest gold-tier level, that can help support its efforts in introducing meaningful work-based projects into the classroom. 

BGSU plans to develop work-integrated learning strategies during Fall 2025 with help from faculty, staff and students across the learning community with the goal of piloting projects starting in Spring 2026. 

This initiative is led with support from a core implementation team consisting of Steve Russell, associate vice president, corporate partnerships, Adrienne Ausdenmoore, assistant vice president and executive director of the Geoffrey H. Radbill Center for College and Life Design, Dr. Jolie Sheffer, associate dean in the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Margo Kammeyer, manager of project management in the Office of the Chief Information Officer, and Dunbar, senior director of career design in the Kuhlin Career Hub.