The event is designed to be welcoming and educational, and prior experience in agriculture is not required to attend.

The schedule for the evening includes hors d’oeuvres at 5:00 p.m., with drinks available for purchase, followed by the speaker presentation and Q&A from 5:30 to 6:00 p.m.

Cost is $10 per person, and seating is limited. Advance registration is required at go.osu.edu/madisonwia.

The program is sponsored by Maria Hoewischer with America’s Trusted Insurance Group.

Organizers say the Happy Bites series offers a relaxed way to connect, learn, and build community among women across Madison County with an interest in agriculture and local food systems.

This month’s issue features recognition of the 2025 Madison County Special Olympics award winners, with Austin Lane named Athlete of the Year. Coaches, volunteers, and community supporters were also honored for their dedication to local athletes and the Special Olympics program. Award recipients are selected by fellow athletes, staff, and community members involved with the program, reflecting the strong sense of teamwork and support within Madison County.

The newsletter also includes a call for nominations for the 2026 MCBDD Appreciation Awards, encouraging residents to recognize individuals and organizations that positively impact the lives of people with developmental disabilities. In addition, readers will find practical resources such as the Madison County Hope Card, which lists local contacts for healthcare, housing, food assistance, and other support services.

Throughout the issue, MCBDD shares program highlights, community events, and stories that showcase inclusion, service, and personal growth across the county.

To read the full February 2026 newsletter, click here.

Becoming a driver is simple — volunteers must be 21 or older, have a valid driver's license, auto insurance, and pass a background check.

The program not only helps reduce social isolation among seniors but also connects volunteers with meaningful ways to give back. As one local organizer says, "It's not just a ride — it’s a lifeline."

If you're interested in making a difference and would like to become a volunteer driver, contact United Way of Clark, Champaign & Madison Counties by calling 937-324-5551 or visiting www.uwccmc.org.

This year’s Greenhand Degree recipients include Ella Ballah, Sully Clark, Kyler Gillespie, Cian Kreeger, Acacia McCann, McKinley Montrose, Liam Nation, Shawn Nelson, Alexis Penwell, Charley Peters, Marcella Ruthers, Gabriella Warren, Darla Baker, Avery Breeden, Chole Brohard, Mark Covert, Brendan Dahlberg, Bailey Derifield, Noah Ernst, London Evans, Alexa Freeman, Addison Huddleston, Kaydence Jackson, Lydia Meddock, Angelina Nettleton, Hailun Ouyand, Sydney Powell, Karlee Pratt, Ellie Randall, Evelyn Risner, Sophia Runyon, and Emma Taylor.
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The London FFA chapter congratulates all Greenhand Degree recipients and looks forward to seeing their continued growth and success in future FFA activities and degrees.

During the contest, members worked in teams to systematically identify and correct malfunctions within various tractor systems. Participants were tested on their understanding of electrical, fuel, hydraulic, and power train systems, while also being evaluated on teamwork, efficiency, and accuracy. The hands-on competition emphasized real-world skills essential to agricultural mechanics and equipment maintenance.

The London FFA tractor troubleshooting teams consisted of Jacob Stahl and Justin Saylers on one team, and Hailey Ballah and Mark Covert on the second team. Jacob Hiles served as the alternate for the competition. Through careful analysis and collaboration, team members worked to diagnose issues and propose effective solutions within the allotted time.

London FFA member Justin Saylers said, “The tractor troubleshooting contest pushed us to think critically and work together under pressure. It was a great opportunity to apply what we’ve learned in the classroom to real equipment.”
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The tractor troubleshooting contest supports London FFA’s goal of developing technical skills, teamwork, and career readiness among its members. The chapter looks forward to continuing participation in agricultural mechanics events throughout the competition season

To be eligible, FFA members must have earned at least $10,000 outside of class time through a supervised agricultural experience (SAE) program in which they own their own business, hold a professional position as an employee, or conduct research. Recipients must also complete 50 hours of community service and demonstrate outstanding leadership abilities and civic involvement through the completion of a long list of FFA and community activities. Less than one percent of FFA members achieve the American FFA Degree.

Mathews earned her degree by earning $26,195 over 4 years in her SAE’s. This included her job placement at TSC and Sheffield Animal Hospital.

The American Degree is sponsored by Cargill, Case IH, John Deere, and Syngenta.

Emily Matthews of the London FFA chapter received her American FFA degree at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis Indiana. Matthew’s advisor is Miss Dana Snyder.
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Chapters that received star ratings during judging this summer were recognized at the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo, Oct 29-Nov 1.

All star-rated FFA chapters receive honors made possible by corporate sponsors Bayer, Cargill Protein, Case IH, John Deere, Syngenta, and Rabobank.

The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,042,245 student members as part of 9,407 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Topics will include an overview of crop insurance basics, explanations of Supplemental Coverage Option (SCO) and Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO), and guidance on maintaining accurate production records that are critical when working with insurance adjusters. Presenters will also discuss best practices for documentation and reporting, helping farmers prepare before issues arise.

Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions during the meal, allowing for open discussion and practical insight tailored to individual operations.

The event is free to attend, but advance registration is required. Those interested can register online at https://go.osu.edu/madins.

Organizers encourage producers of all experience levels to attend, whether they are new to crop insurance or looking to better understand coverage options and recordkeeping strategies for the upcoming growing season.