Perfect State Sweep Sends Marching Band to National Stage
Kalida, OH · November 5, 2026
Brass notes are echoing across the practice field early this morning. There is plenty on the schedule as autumn settles into a brisk rhythm.
The Lead
The Kalida High School Marching Band is heading to the national stage after capping off an undefeated Ohio Music Education Association season. With their 2026 field show, "How a Rose," the ensemble earned a straight "Superior" rating at the state finals, securing top marks from every adjudicator across visual, auxiliary, and musical performance captions.
The state sweep marks a milestone for the student performers, who have captured first-place honors at every weekend invitational this autumn. Rather than packing away the uniforms, the band is dialing up daily rehearsals on the practice field this week. Next stop is the Bands of America Grand National Championships at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, where the Wildcats take the field on November 12. Director and section leaders will finalize drill spacing on Friday afternoon before the gear is packed for Indiana.
Local Pulse
- Countywide Ballots Clear Fire And Rescue Levies Safety Putnam County voters approved emergency medical and township fire funding requests to guarantee continuous first-responder coverage through 2031.
Today's Outlook
- High 62°F · Low 51°F — Overcast
- A mild, cloud-heavy Thursday calls for a light jacket rather than heavy winter layers.
What's On Around Town
Today
Senior Bingo Social Fort Haven Apartments (145 4th St), Fort Jennings, 1:00 PM · Free Casual afternoon cards and company hosted by the Council on Aging.
Community Book Discussion Putnam County District Library Fort Jennings Location, Fort Jennings, 5:30 PM · Free Lively group discussion exploring Kim Michele Richardson's historical Appalachian novel.
K–5 Art Hub Putnam County District Library Ottawa Location (136 Putnam Parkway), Ottawa, 6:00 PM · Free Hands-on evening art activities designed for elementary school creators.
Tomorrow
- Beads and Bracelets Bash Northside Lions Den Shelter House (429 Northland Dr), 10:00–11:30 AM · Free
- Cousins Maine Lobster Pop-Up Tractor Supply Co. (203 Meadowglen Dr), Ottawa, 11:30 AM–6:00 PM · Paid
Saturday
- Ottawa Holiday Craft Show Homestead 6:33 (751 E 4th St), Ottawa, 9:00 AM–3:00 PM
Spotlight & Story
- Broad Street
- Staked out in May 1834 by surveyor F.C. Fitch and town director Abraham Sarber, Broad Street was platted twenty feet wider than adjacent lanes to grant multi-horse timber wagons turning room around the original courthouse square.
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