Elvis sang about having a “Blue Christmas”, but for a few people those words also ring true during the next couple of months. According to the American Psychological Association, around 1/3 of the people that they surveyed say they feel added stress during the holiday season, which could lead to anxiety and depression.  65% of people who are already dealing with mental illness, feel that their conditions get worse over the holidays.  Mental health experts from the Family Resource Center say setting boundaries when it comes to holiday expectations is one way to manage your own anxiety.

They say in terms of prevention, there are steps parents can take to help keep their kids safe. For example, if the parent is a gun owner, they should have their weapon locked up with the ammo stored separately. And if your child is going to a friend's house, she encourages parents to talk to each other about whether they own a gun. There is nothing wrong with asking that question and finding out if they are properly storing their weapons out of reach of the kids. It's also important to talk to your children about gun safety as well, so they understand what to do if they are ever in a dangerous situation.

It's one of many positive changes to come out of the last couple of years. Psychologists say the pandemic also triggered more conversations about mental health, which helped reduce stigmas. In addition, many people had to find new ways to cope if they couldn't go to the gym or connect with family and friends. Research shows some still continue with these new habits even now that the restrictions have ended.

Members talked over concerns that have been expressed over the project, ranging from who would have final authority over scheduling and use of the aquatics center, to who would make up the planned advisory council for the facility. There was also discussion over the Lima City Schools' contribution and involvement in the project. The committee then voted to recommend the council of the whole, approve a memorandum of understanding with the Lima City Schools, concerning the pool.

Every journey has a story, and you can read about some history making ones in Auglaize County. The Historical Society opened the Wapakoneta Mu…

Commissioners are moving ahead with a process of determining projects that can be funded by “ARPA” dollars. The final document released by the U.S. Treasury is more than 400 pages long with 4 specific areas that are designated as areas funding can be used. Commissioners want to take a deeper look at departments that could qualify for the money and how best to use it.