Ellie Janszen

Work zones are a familiar sight on roads across the country during the summer, but ignoring the zones around the orange barrels is causing ODOT and state troopers to see red. Ellie Janszen takes us to a work zone nearby. The men and women working inside work zones aim for one common goal: to keep everybody on the road safe. It is important that we strive to do the same for them.

There's hundreds of projects being showcased in the Junior Fair Building with the same goal in mind: to make the best better. Ellie Janszen takes us to one of the coolest spots at the fair. Presentation is underway for the next generation of community leaders here in Auglaize County. The junior fair is taking place today. Junior fair exhibitors are showing off their months of hard work in their building. 4H members across the county had the chance to learn and grow through various projects like woodworking, sewing, safety, photography, and so much more. Presenters took advantage of trying new skills or expanding knowledge of their hobbies.

A celebration of young people in agriculture highlighted the second day of the Auglaize County Fair. Members of 4H drew large crowds today as they showcased their special skills and talents through various competitions at the fairgrounds. The annual Auglaize County Fair celebrated the area's agriculture as participants showed out through impressive showmanship events that included hogs, goats, and horses. Participants from across the county showed off their dedication and hard work as they competed against one another in the arena. Judges evaluated both the animals and their handling skills in many categories, while fairgoers supported and enjoyed the delicious food.

The century-old centerpiece of downtown Van Wert has been restored. In Van Wert, city officials and community members gathered around the corner of Main and Washington Street to witness the official completion of the National Bank clock restoration project. The famous clock was manufactured at some point in 1917 out of Minnesota with unique details like stained glass dials. They hope to keep the familiar antique ticking for 100 more years to preserve a piece of history. Historic Main Street Van Wert has been working on finding funding for this $60,000 project to fix up the centerpiece of the downtown. Ohio Health donated $6,000 to help them cross the finish line, but the restoration of this historic piece is just the start of building for the future.

Therapists in Putnam County are making a difference in the lives of many, but they're not the kind of therapists you'd expect. At the Challenged Champions facility, horses provide therapy and hope to individuals facing various conditions. The non-profit organization uses horses and their environment to offer equine-based activities from reading to riding. The goal is to enrich and change the lives of children and adults with special needs. 

Van Wert Hospital is taking action against hunger in their community. The first of two food drives this summer took place at Trinity Friends Church on Tuesday afternoon. Volunteers from Ohio Health Van Wert Hospital, United Way, and West Ohio Food Bank came out to distribute both food and household items to those in need. The three organizations came together to combat the serious issue of food insecurity. Over 8 tons of food were distributed to more than 200 families in the county in just two hours.

Lima youngsters are gearing up to use their five senses as they solve the mysteries of nature. A group of young explorers are looking for clues around McLean Teddy Bear Park on Tuesday. Using their journals and badges, the nature detectives are learning about air, land, and water. The two-day camp for 5 and 6-year-olds features a hike using a hand lens to discover more about different plants and animals. The chief ranger will also talk to the kids about his involvement with the environment. The investigators will make friends and play games to uncover the clues that nature shows us every day.

A STEM camp at the Lima Public Library is inspiring young minds through a lot of activities. Students ages 10 through 16 are participating in a 4-day summer electronics camp this week to create electromagnetics, burglar alarms, and blinking lights. The lessons taught give students the chance to tackle eighth-grade science concepts and dive deeper into their passion for science. With tools in hand, these future innovators make friends and discoveries through interactive, hands-on learning.

One local campground is continuing to contribute their time to a good cause with a weekend full of festivities. Huggy Bear Campgrounds is hosting its annual 3-day fundraiser to support St. Jude Children's Hospital. The fun and games offered have helped raise over 1.7 million dollars since their start in 2012 with events like the silent auction and reverse raffle. While enjoying music and delicious food, you also have the chance to win a basket, camper, cash prize, and golf cart.