Bluffton Schools strings teacher Rachael Lewis was honored on Wednesday, February 11, as an Outstanding Educator at a Luncheon sponsored by the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools. Lewis is in her 42nd year of teaching Strings at Bluffton. Pictured here L-R) Paul Craft (State Superintendent), Paul Larue (President of the State Board of Education), Rachael Lewis, Rodney Rodgers (BGSU President), and Randy Gardner (Former Chancellor of Higher Education).
By Franki Hatten
Volunteer Coordinator, Blanchard Valley Health System
Hancock County runs on people who show up. Our community thrives because neighbors step in, lend a hand, and give their time to causes that matter. Local organizations depend on this generosity every day—from supporting older adults through the Findlay Area Agency on Aging, to serving meals at the Findlay Community Kitchen, to helping the Hancock County Humane Society care for animals in need.
Volunteers also play a huge role at Blanchard Valley Health System, where they welcome visitors, assist staff, offer companionship to patients, run gift shops, help with administrative work and even deliver flowers and mail. These efforts don’t just fill gaps—they expand what’s possible. By saving resources and increasing reach, volunteers help essential services do more for more people.
HARROD__The visiting Bluffton High School girls basketball team raced to a big early lead and smothered backyard Northwest Conference rival Allen East 44-28 in their regular season finale showdown on Thursday, February 12.
Bluffton built a 13-3 lead after the first quarter as sophomore guard Maelee Miller poured in 10 early points, hitting two three-point goals.
Steady Pirate senior Blair Utendorf then buried two triples in the second stanza despite AE closing within 21-14 at halftime.
FROM YOUTUBE__Maumee Bay Turf Inc. recently shared this video celebrating and documenting the construction of the new turf practice field that expands space for recess, marching band practice and sports practices. The accompanying soundtrack even sings out P-I-R-A-T-E-S.
MEDIA RELEASE__Brevin Louden, West Liberty, Ohio, has been awarded the university’s full-tuition Presidential Scholarship, valued at more than $156,000 over four years.
