News

Ohio farmers navigate uncertainty amid Farm Bill delays

In case you missed it amidst the New Year’s revelry, Congress failed again last year to pass a new Farm Bill, the critical piece of ongoing legislation that facilitates American farming and agriculture. Unable to agree on a full five-year Farm Bill, Congress instead passed yet another short-term extension of the previous bill in the waning hours of 2024. Now, Congress has nine months to hash out the next Farm Bill - but how will Republican control over the government impact the negotiations?

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Board of Elections to welcome two new members

The Paulding County Board of Elections held its monthly meeting on January 15, delayed due to their usual meeting day falling on a holiday. All members were present, although chairperson David Cline came in late due to unforeseen circumstances. Stan Harmon filled in as chair until Cline arrived. Also present was Penny Duer, who will be replacing David Cline in March. Also present were Director Rosann Laker and Deputy Director Julie Phelan. Also noted as present in the minutes was Paulding Progress editor Jerry Stanford.

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Workout classes for people with Parkinson’s come to Van Wert

In partnership with Vancrest Health Care Centers, the Van Wert County Council on Aging will begin in February with Rock Steady Boxing classes for those ages 60 and older with Parkinson’s disease. Rock Steady Boxing is a non-contact boxing program designed specifically for those with Parkinson’s disease. It aims to improve the quality of life through exercises that enhance balance, strength, agility, and overall fitness. Head coach Kayla Leis, a Van Wert native and Huntington University occupational therapy doctoral student received her Rock Steady Trainer certification this past November and will lead the classes. The classes will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30 – 5:30 PM in the Vancrest Outpatient Therapy Center of Vancrest, located at 10357 Van Wert-Decatur Road (entrance #2). This will be an 8-week session; however, participants can join any time during the 8 weeks. There is no cost associated with participation in these classes and contributions toward the program will gladly be accepted.

Read MoreWorkout classes for people with Parkinson’s come to Van Wert

Secretary LaRose encourages inactive voters to confirm registration information

COLUMBUS–Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose this week issued Directive 2025-02, outlining the completion phase of Ohio’s 2021 General Voter Records Maintenance Program and ensuring accurate, up-to-date voter rolls across the state. The program, which follows both federal and state requirements, aims to remove abandoned registrations while protecting active voters’ rights.

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