By Bonnie Daniel
Correspondent
Adult Services Director Rodney Biggert escorted Seneca County Developmental Disability board members on a tour of the renovated area at Seneca Re-ads following a business meeting Tuesday afternoon.
Smaller rooms have been constructed to meet individual needs and control noise for clients. Outside of large windows, donated soil and plant material is to be installed for visual stimulation. One room is for individuals to accomplish projects while another will be used to soothe others with sensory stimulations. Music, scented candles and television are some of the avenues to be used.
Internationally known artist Patty Mitchell may be assisting in the development of the sensory area where she will personalize the room to the individuals involved.
Biggert said he wanted to offer clients a better experience.
Another area is the technology room where clients will be able to access a large screen TV, touch screen computers, Wii dance activities, iPads and more.
Biggert also said during the board meeting that staff is being reassigned with changes to the area.
Children's Services Director Rick Gagnon said a luncheon is Friday for grandparents and special friends of students. He said Early Intervention numbers of children are down while they are adjusting to new state regulations for the program.
Gagnon said elections for student council take place Nov. 6 with three new members added. Council members are involved in baking cookies, creating signs for Opportunity Park and planning a winter dance.
Cynthia Morrison announced the upcoming "Hoot in the Park!" on Trick or Treat Trail in Opportunity Park is 5-7 p.m. Oct. 18. The Aktion Club is to be in costume handing out candy to children 10 and younger. The event will be inside in case of rain.
On Oct. 19, the Aktion Club is to have an induction ceremony at Kiwanis Manor 9:15-10:30 a.m.
The Tiffin-Seneca United Way 2012 Day of Caring follows at the Opportunity Center 8:15 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 20. The Aktion Club is to pack lunches for participants.
The Opportunity Center is entering a float in the Tiffin Developmental Center's Halloween Parade Oct. 22. The theme is "Everyone Deserves a Good Life."
A fall craft show has been added to the schedule this year. It runs 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 27 at the Opportunity Center.
Superintendent Lew Hurst announced the beginning of the 2013 strategic planning process by inviting board members to participate on committees. They also are to examine changes in adult services and impact on services, state and local funding plus staff benefits.
He reminded members that a North Central Ohio Regional Council of Government training is 5-9 p.m. Oct. 30 at Carmies.
In two or three weeks, two people are to move into a newly remodeled home in Fostoria acquired in cooperation with WSOS, according to Nyoka
Craddolph.
Human Resources Director Janet Vay said wellness activities for staff members are being sought. They have established a Weight Watchers group for staff at the Opportunity Center lasting 10 weeks.
Transportation Director Ron Davidson talked about the Zonar computer system used by the bus fleet with a story about how the system saved one vehicle from overheating.
In other matters, the board:
Examined a revised financial report and approved paying bills.
Approved recommendations from the ethics council for renewal of three contracts for services.
Approved a transfer of $60,000 from the general fund to the supported living services fund.
Approved an appropriation of $68,406.26 to the supported living contract services.
Reviewed nine policies.
The 169 Board is to meet at 5 p.m. Nov. 13 at Opportunity Center.
