WASHINGTON — The American Soybean Association welcomed news from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that the agency would deny a petition to remove the crop protection tool chlorpyrifos from the market. ASA President and Roseville, Illinois., soybean farmer Ron Moore issued a statement highlighting the science-based nature of EPA’s action and calling on EPA to continue on such a path when reviewing future traits.

Organic Producers and Handlers May Apply for Certification Cost Share Reimbursements; Expanded Eligibility for Transition and State Certification Cost As of March 20, organic producers and handlers are able to visit more than 2,100 USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices to apply for federal reimbursement to assist with the cost of receiving and maintaining organic or transitional certification.

COLUMBUS — Adam Carney of Plain City has been named director of membership sales for the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation. Carney brings more than 10 years of sales and sales leadership experience to the newly created position.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources recently released its latest reports. Central Ohio – Wildlife District One

Crawford Soil and Water Conservation District will sponsor full scholarships of $375, for two high school students to attend the Ohio Forestry and Wildlife Conservation Camp this summer. The one-week resident camp is at FFA Camp Muskingum in Carroll County and takes place June 11-16.

Four hours prior to tip-off of the game that would decide the winner of March Madness, the champions of the first DC-U Madness hoop shoot and canned food drive were named.

CAREY — Carey Council affirmed its intention to legislate a moment of silence and the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of its meetings Monday, with new Mayor Jennifer Rathburn at the head of the table for the first time.

SYCAMORE — Tom and Barb Davidson announced the winner of the inaugural Wyandot County Big Buck Contest on Saturday afternoon surrounded by about 100 family members, friends and supporters at Roger’s Lake Conversation Club in rural Sycamore.

BUCYRUS — More than 200 people enjoyed an afternoon of free lunch, art and music Sunday at Wynford Elementary School. “We feel it’s important to give back to the families and allow them to come in and for the kids to showcase their talents musically and artistically,” Superintendent Fred Fox said.

Dear editor: I had the opportunity last Friday evening to attend a state semifinal Special Olympics basketball game in Bowling Green at the Stroh Center.