Catalyst completes CARF survey
MANSFIELD – Catalyst Life Services completed a three-day survey facilitated by the Commission for Accreditation of Rehabilitative Facilities (CARF). CARF is an international gold standard accreditation, in which program standards are reviewed by professionals who determine if the agency is meeting over 3,000 key standards.
These standards look at many areas, including finance, human resources, IT, health/safety, leadership, governance, vocational services, mental health/substance abuse services and programing, audiology and several other areas.
Catalyst received zero findings during the review and was found to be 100 percent compliant. The lead surveyor shared the rarity of an organization having zero findings, stating “it is almost unheard of.” The CARF surveyors referred to Catalyst as “the flagship organization in our area.”
For those being served, CARF accreditation means the CARF-accredited service provider is committed to reducing risk, addressing health and safety concerns, respecting preferences of individuals (cultural or otherwise) and providing the best quality of care possible. It also shows that the accredited organization values the feedback and input of their clients and is accountable to the community.
Kroger to hold grand reopening for remodeled Mansfield store
MANSFIELD – The Kroger store at 1500 Lexington Ave. will officially unveil its $3.4 million renovation on Friday. During the grand reopening celebration, shoppers can register to win one of eight $100 Kroger gift cards, sample food and take advantage of specials.
To further celebrate, customers who use their Kroger Plus card at the Lexington Avenue Kroger Fuel Center between July 16 and July 18 will reap an extra 20 cents per gallon savings.
The newly remodeled 110,110-square-foot store features all new, upgraded décor and added conveniences including a refreshed Starbucks® kiosk and new seating area, increased selections in the deli, produce, meat, seafood and adult beverage departments and new shelving throughout the store.
The location presently employs more than 250 associates.
Award-winning educator joins Mind Body Align

MANSFIELD – Mind Body Align (MBA) hired award-winning educator Caryl Church Jesseph as a curriculum and education developer and mindful educator. An ODE licensed teacher for grades kindergarten-12, Church Jesseph taught for 15 years in public schools in Lake and Geauga counties where she received multiple honors, including the Northeast Ohio Outstanding Art Educator Award.
Church Jesseph earned her master’s degree in art education from Kent State University. She is a published writer, exhibited artist and certified yoga teacher. In her spare time, she can often be found photographing wildflowers, writing stories or enjoying live music.
Mind Body Align teaches mindful social emotional learning (SEL) and workplace programs. The SEL is proven to improve learning for 90.5% of students, including 70% of at-risk students. Mind Body Align also improves profitability of businesses by using mindfulness education as a part of employee resources. Mindful MBA services are available both online and in person. Learn more at mindbodyalign.com.
BWC rate reduction now in effect
COLUMBUS – Ohio’s private employers will pay nearly $72 million less in premiums to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) next fiscal year under a 7.1% rate reduction the agency’s Board of Directors approved back in February.
This rate reduction became effective July 1, the start of state fiscal year 2022. It will save private employers $71.5 million over this year’s premiums, affecting approximately 220,000 employers across the state.
The Board’s action marks the fourth consecutive rate reduction for private employers since 2018 and the twelfth since 2008. It also follows a 10% reduction for Ohio’s public employers (cities, counties, schools, etc.) that went into effect Jan. 1.
The 7.1% rate cut represents an average statewide change to premiums. The actual premium paid by individual private employers depends on several factors, including the expected future claims costs in their industry, their company’s recent claims history, and their participation in various BWC programs.