In episode 78 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Superintendent Michael Zalar of Avon Local Schools.

Superintendent Zalar discusses the unique qualities of his school district, the focus on student-centered education, and the importance of community support.

He outlines his strategic plans for the district, which include updating the master facilities plan and enhancing the technology and curriculum to meet future needs.

Superintendent Zalar highlights the importance of safety, social and emotional support for teachers and students, and the evolving role of technology and AI in education. Z

He shares his personal background, leadership style, and how he stays recharged through hobbies such as running and outdoor activities.

The episode concludes with an emphasis on community involvement in the district's strategic planning process and how people can get more information and connect with the schools.

Superintendent Michael Zalar on Avon Local Schools: Strategic Planning, Challenges, and Innovations

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgements

00:34 Interview with Superintendent Michael Zalar

01:01 Community and School Achievements

02:21 Superintendent's Vision and Priorities

02:51 Defining Success and Addressing Challenges

04:53 Community Engagement and Partnerships

12:11 School Safety and Security

13:33 Superintendent's Background and Personal Insights

19:13 Conclusion and Podcast Information

In episode 77 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Chelsea Freeman-Yates, Executive Director of the Children and Families First Council of Lorain County.

Chelsea provides an insightful overview of the council's mission, structure, and services.

She discusses the council's collaborative efforts to tackle barriers faced by multi-system youth and their families, the strategic planning involved in service coordination, and the robust support structure they have developed.

Chelsea also shares her personal journey into leadership and reflects on the profound impact COVID-19 has had on mental health and service provision.

Highlighting specific success stories and future goals, including the upcoming Kids Summit, she emphasizes the council's dedication to creating lasting positive changes in Lorain County.

Chelsea Freeman-Yates on Enhancing Child and Family Services in Lorain County

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:20 Sponsor Acknowledgements

00:34 Guest Introduction: Chelsea Freeman-Yates

01:15 Overview of Children and Families First Council

04:02 Direct Services and Programs

05:39 Impact of COVID-19

06:14 Success Stories

08:34 Funding and Value Creation

11:25 Future Vision and Challenges

12:14 Personal Insights and Background

15:03 Conclusion and Contact Information

In episode 76 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Superintendent Joelle Magyar of Avon Lake City Schools.

Superintendent Magyar shares her perspective on what makes the district unique and discusses various initiatives and priorities.

She highlights the construction of a new middle school, addressing students' mental health post-COVID, supporting teachers, community partnerships, and tackling legislative challenges.

Superintendent Magyar also reflects on her personal journey in education, the district's commitment to student satisfaction, and her leadership approach.

Additionally, she delves into the impact of technology, including AI, and emphasizes the importance of preparing students for future success.

Insights with Joelle Magyar: The Heart and Vision of Avon Lake City Schools

00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgements

00:17 Welcome to the Podcast

00:38 Introducing Superintendent Joelle Magyar

01:28 Character and Uniqueness of Avon Lake City Schools

02:06 Key Priorities and Initiatives

02:39 Defining Success in the District

03:27 Opportunities and Challenges for Students

04:46 Supporting Teachers and Community Feedback

06:35 Community Partnerships and Challenges

08:16 Rankings and Future Investments

12:00 Role of Technology and AI in Education

14:29 School Safety and Security Measures

15:46 Superintendent Joelle Magyar's Journey

18:27 Pride and Future Goals for the District

20:11 Leadership Style and Personal Interests

21:51 Staying Connected with the Community

22:35 Conclusion and Farewell

In episode 75 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with John Baumgartner, writer and director of “Beneath the Light”.

In part 2 with John Baumgartner, he delves into his extensive 25-year career in filmmaking and acting.

John discusses his early projects in Vienna and Los Angeles, and moving through his experiences in various films, TV shows, and significant industry collaborations.

He highlights the making of 'Beneath the Light' and other key projects, emphasizing the importance of passion and perseverance in the creative arts.

John reflects on his connection to Lorain, Ohio, and offers advice for aspiring filmmakers, while also discussing his hobbies such as restoring vintage pinball machines and mentoring young actors.

Part 2: A Journey Through Filmmaking with John Baumgartner

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:15 Highlighting Sponsors and Guest Introduction

00:42 John Baumgartner's Early Career

03:06 Breakthroughs and Major Projects

04:54 Mentorship and Teaching

07:20 Challenges and Reflections

16:01 Pride in Accomplishments

19:03 Future Goals and Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

23:27 Hobbies and Interests

24:07 Conclusion and Contact Information

In episode 74 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with John Baumgartner, writer and director of “Beneath the Light”.

In part 1 with John Baumgartner, he discusses his extensive career in Los Angeles and his return to his hometown of Lorain, Ohio, to create his latest film, 'Beneath the Light.'

The film, a psychological supernatural thriller, is set in the iconic Lorain Lighthouse and pays homage to the scenic beauty and community support of Lorraine.

John also talks about the broader impact of filming in Lorain, including how it benefits the local economy and promotes the city’s cinematic potential.

Additionally, he delves into the creation of an online game and novel that complement the movie, and the evolution of filmmaking technologies, including the implications of AI in the industry.

Part 1: Exploring 'Beneath the Light' with John Baumgartner

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

00:34 John Baumgartner's Career and Return to Lorain

02:00 Overview of 'Beneath the Light'

03:41 Filming in Lorain: Challenges and Rewards

06:20 Community Support and Impact

11:28 Expanding the Story: Game and Novel

14:38 The Changing Landscape of Filmmaking

17:33 Technological Advances and AI in Filmmaking

20:47 Conclusion and Future Prospects

In episode 73 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Mayor Jack Bradley of The City of Lorain.

Mayor Bradley discusses the city's unique character, emphasizing its diversity and industrial history.

He outlines current initiatives aimed at economic development, including the cleanup of brownfields and waterfront redevelopment.

Mayor Bradley addresses the city's efforts to reduce crime through community engagement, improved street lighting, and educational banners.

Additionally, he reflects on the community's response to a recent tragic attack on police officers and collaborations with local organizations and leaders for economic growth.

Lorain's Transformation: Insights from Mayor Jack Bradley

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment

00:32 Meet Mayor Jack Bradley

01:15 Lorain's Industrial Past and Future Potential

02:30 Economic Development Initiatives

04:28 Community Safety and Crime Reduction

07:27 Community Support and Police Relations

09:10 City Services and Resident Concerns

10:41 Collaboration with Lorain City Schools

12:38 Public-Private Partnerships

15:06 Future Opportunities for Lorain

17:26 Mayor Bradley's Personal Journey

22:13 Leadership Style and Principles

24:10 Hobbies and Personal Interests

25:34 Connecting with the Community

27:04 Conclusion and Podcast Information

In episode 72 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Mayor Rocky Radeff of The City of Sheffield Lake.

Mayor Radeff shares insights about the unique character of the city, emphasizing its family-friendly environment and numerous amenities like parks, paths, and access to the lake.

He outlines his administration’s key priorities, which include communication and responsiveness, recreational development, and city beautification.

Mayor Radeff highlights recent accomplishments and ongoing projects such as the reinstatement of a recreation director, various community events, park and infrastructure improvements, and efforts to enhance communication with residents through newsletters, updates, and social media.

Additionally, he discusses future goals, including the development of a recreational center and lakefront projects.

He encourages residents to stay informed through multiple channels and is committed to making Sheffield Lake a modern yet close-knit community.

Mayor Rocky Radeff Discusses Sheffield Lake’s Unique Charm, Key Initiatives, and Vision for the Future

00:00 Introduction and Episode Sponsorship

00:32 Meet Mayor Rocky Radeff

01:10 The Unique Character of Sheffield Lake

01:58 City Priorities and Initiatives

02:55 Recreational Development

05:00 Beautification Efforts

06:54 Communication Strategies

10:45 Lakefront Development

12:51 Future Opportunities and Goals

16:02 Mayor Rocky Radeff's Background

20:21 Leadership Style and Principles

24:12 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

In episode 71 of the LorainCounty.com Insights podcast, host Ed Skimin talks with Mayor Scott Jones of The Village of South Amherst.

Mayor Jones discusses the importance of transparency and the significant infrastructure improvements underway.

He reveals new technology initiatives, such as online water billing and AI integration for better service delivery.

Mayor Jones shares his approach to community partnerships and his commitment to improving residents' quality of life through various events and projects.

He also touches on personal motivations, leadership philosophy, and future plans, highlighting his dedication to making South Amherst a better place for all its residents.

Mayor Scott Jones: Transforming South Amherst through Transparency and Technology

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:27 Meet Mayor Scott Jones

01:43 Transparency and Infrastructure Initiatives

02:32 Technology and Community Services

03:53 Community Partnerships and Resident Concerns

05:43 Events and Community Engagement

07:54 Challenges and Future Plans

11:16 Personal Background and Leadership Style

16:33 Conclusion and Contact Information