(From The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation)

The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation awarded $20,000 to support veterans and first responders. These four grants are awards from the president’s discretionary fund, which supports urgent or special requests outside The Community Foundation’s various grant cycles. The President & CEO of The Community Foundation is allocated an amount each year. These grants typically do not exceed $5,000 individually.

This year, Foundation staff dedicated the 2025 president’s discretionary funds to show appreciation for those who help others. Earlier in the year, grants were awarded to public schools in Hancock County for staff appreciation efforts.

“The first responders are critical to the health and safety in our community and serve daily,” said Brian Treece, President & CEO of the Foundation. “Additionally, our local veterans deserve our continued thanks and support for selflessly serving our country. These grants are a token of our appreciation for both groups. We are grateful for all you have done and continue to do.”

Findlay Fire Department was awarded $5,000. “We can’t thank The Community Foundation enough for using the President’s Discretionary Grant on showing appreciation for our local fire and EMS personnel,” said Josh Eberle, Chief of the Findlay Fire Department. “This job is very rewarding, but over time it can take a toll on people. Using the grant for this purpose reminds our firefighters and EMS personnel that our work is appreciated and that there is a network of support for us within the community.”

Findlay Police Department was awarded $5,000. “We are grateful to The Community Foundation for their generous support,” said James Mathias, Chief of the Findlay Police Department. “Their grant helps our first responders feel recognized and appreciated for their hard work and reminds them that the community stands behind them. We appreciate this partnership and the Foundation’s commitment to those who keep our city safe.”

Hancock County Sheriff’s Department was awarded $5,000. “We are incredibly grateful to The Community Foundation for awarding the Sheriff’s Office a $5,000 President’s Discretionary Grant,” said Michael Cortez, Sheriff of Hancock County Sheriff’s. “This support is more than a contribution awarded by a grant. It is a direct investment in the well-being of the men and women who serve our county every day. This grant helps recognize the dedication, professionalism, and positive impact our employees have on our community every day. From an external perspective, this grant helps reinforce that our employees are valued by those in our community. Our employees work tirelessly, often in difficult and unseen circumstances, and this support allows us to continue encouraging, uplifting, and honoring the good work they do for the people of Hancock County.”

Hancock County Veterans Services Office was awarded $5,000. “We are honored to partner with The Community Foundation for this President’s Discretionary Grant,” said Ed Newton, Resiliency Operations Manager. “It will allow the Hancock County Veterans Service Office the opportunity to have positive outreach with hundreds of Hancock County veterans and their families. Thank you so much for providing this opportunity.”

(From Brian Treece – President & CEO of The Community Foundation)

As we turn the page on another year, I find myself reflecting on the incredible generosity and collaboration that define Hancock County. This season isn’t just about celebrating holidays, it’s about honoring the partnerships and shared commitment that make our community thrive.

At The Community Foundation, we believe that lasting impact happens when we work together. This year, we’ve seen that belief come to life in countless ways. From donors who trust us to steward their philanthropic goals, to nonprofit partners who meet critical needs every day, to volunteers who give their time and expertise, your contributions make a difference that will echo for generations.

To our donors: thank you for your unwavering support. Every gift, no matter the size, fuels our mission to improve the quality of life for all in Hancock County. Your trust inspires us to work diligently, ensuring that your generosity creates meaningful change.

To our nonprofit partners: your tireless efforts to serve our neighbors remind us what community truly means. We are honored to stand alongside you as you address challenges and create opportunities for those who need them most.

To our volunteers and board members: your leadership and dedication are the backbone of our work. You help us dream bigger and achieve more than we could alone.

And to our professional advisors and elected officials: thank you for your guidance and partnership. Your collaboration strengthens the fabric of our community and ensures that philanthropy remains a powerful force for good.

As we look ahead to a new year, we do so with gratitude and optimism. Together, we’ve built a foundation for lasting impact: over $95 million granted to date, more than 500 funds supporting causes that matter, and a growing endowment that will serve Hancock County for generations to come. But our work is far from finished. The challenges we face are real, and so are the opportunities to make life better for everyone who calls this place home.

On behalf of The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation, thank you for being part of this journey. Your generosity, vision, and partnership make Hancock County a thriving place to live, work, learn and grow. Here’s to continuing that work, together, in the year ahead.

(From the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce)

High school sophomores across Findlay and Hancock County are invited to apply for the 2026-27 Hancock Youth Leadership (HYL) program, a leadership development experience affiliated with the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce.

For more than 25 years, HYL has invested in the future of Findlay and Hancock County by helping students grow as confident leaders, effective communicators and positive role models who are engaged in their community. The program is designed for students who are curious, eager to learn and interested in building leadership and communication skills to carry into school, future careers and everyday life.

Students selected for the program participate in nine full day sessions during their junior year of high school. Monthly sessions are held during the school day and focus on interactive learning, meaningful discussion and real-world exposure to how the community operates. Session topics include city and county infrastructure, health and human services, arts and media, justice and law, diversity, business and economic development, and agriculture. Students also collaborate on a class project and complete at least one volunteer experience with a local nonprofit organization.

HYL is open to all Hancock County high school sophomores, including students enrolled in Findlay City Schools, county school districts, and those who are homeschooled. A limited number of students are selected each year to create a well-rounded class with a variety of experiences and perspectives.

Applications are available online and must be submitted by February 27, 2026. The program will begin at the start of the students’ junior year in Fall 2026.

For more information or to apply, visit www.FindlayHancockChamber.com. Questions by be directed to the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber at 419.422.3313 or by email sfoltz@FindlayHancockChamber.com.

(From the Ohio State Highway Patrol)

According to provisional statistics, 17 people were killed in 14 fatal crashes on Ohio roadways this Christmas holiday. Of the 17 people killed, four were not wearing a safety belt, three involved pedestrians and two were related to OVI.

The five-day Christmas reporting period began Wednesday, December 24 at midnight and ran through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, December 28.

During the reporting period, troopers arrested 231 people for operating a vehicle while impaired and 35 for illegal drugs. Troopers also issued citations for 288 safety belt and 147 distracted driving violations. Additionally, troopers assisted 1,173 motorists on Ohio roadways.

During last year’s two-day Christmas holiday reporting period, from December 24 to 25, there were three people killed in motor vehicle crashes on Ohio roads.

The public is encouraged to continue using #677 to report dangerous or impaired drivers, as well as drug activity.

(From the University of Findlay)

University of Findlay student Kaitlyn Froelich is the recipient of this year’s Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Award (Ages 18-23) from the Association of Fundraising Professionals Northwest Ohio chapter.

Froelich earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from UF in 2025 and currently is pursuing her doctoral degree in occupational therapy at the University, while working as a cardiac ICU nurse at Blanchard Valley Hospital in Findlay.

“When Katie is not studying or working, she generously gives of her time through many campus offices and community organizations,” said Kenneth McIntyre Jr., vice president of University advancement. “Her positive attitude radiates a generous nature that extends to fellow UF students, prospective students and their families, and area residents in need.”

She is very involved in UF’s Campus Ministry program, gives tours to new students through the admissions office, serves as an orientation leader, and is a member of the Student Nursing Association and the Students of Occupational Therapy Association. Katie also is the student representative from the College of Health Professions to the Alumni Board of Governors.

Her volunteer work further includes being a member of STRIDE (Students Teaching Respect for Individuals with Disabilities Everyday), a club that volunteers and raises disability awareness on campus and in the community.

In addition, Froelich has volunteered with many organizations that help residents in Northwest Ohio and beyond. She has volunteered with Gliding Stars of Findlay for four years, helping teach individuals with disabilities how to ice skate, bolstering their confidence and social skills, and encouraging them.

She volunteers with Findlay’s City Mission, helping to prepare and serve food to people in need. Since her freshman year, she has been part of multiple Backyard Mission Trips that aid residents of Hancock County by helping them with yardwork and community cleanup.

During Spring Break for the past four years, she has volunteered at numerous camps, including Camp Otyokwah in Ohio, Camp Sonrise Mountain in Maryland, and Camp Yolijwa in Pennsylvania. She assists the camps with labor they cannot afford so they are ready to welcome campers each summer.

Furthermore, Froelich was one of 144 UF graduates in May who earned a Philanthropy Cord to wear at Commencement as a symbol of their commitment to the Oiler culture of philanthropy. The program requires a contribution to a class scholarship benefiting incoming freshman in the fall, volunteering for a minimum of six hours, and attendance at a philanthropic learning event.

“All of this clearly illustrates her mature understanding of philanthropy and her commitment to giving back on a local and national scale,” McIntyre noted. “We are so proud of Katie’s success in the classroom, in the community, and in giving of her time, talent, and treasure.”

Froelich was presented the award November 12 at the 38th annual National Philanthropy Day celebration in Toledo, attended by more than 500 area development professionals. The Greater Toledo Community Foundation also presented a grant to Gliding Stars of Findlay in recognition of her dedication to her community.

###

Pictured from left are: UF President Katherine Fell, Ph.D.; Ken McIntyre Jr., vice president of University advancement; and award winner Kaitlyn Froelich.

(WTOL-11) – The Seneca County Coroner’s Office has concluded its investigation into a murder-suicide in Tiffin in November. 

Police said two children and a 29-year-old man were shot and killed by a man who then took his own life.

The autopsies on the deceased were conducted on November 21st, two days after the shooting that occurred in the 100 block of Huss Street in Tiffin.

The determinations made for the autopsies included gunshot wound-related deaths for 29-year-old Dustin Willey and the 7-year-old and 7-month-old.

Their deaths were ruled as homicides.

42-year-old Ryan Egan’s manner of death was ruled a suicide from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

(From the City of Fostoria)

We are excited to share that the City of Fostoria has been awarded $100,000 from the Ohio Urban Forestry Division to continue strengthening and revitalizing our city’s urban forest.

Many of you know we previously received a $1 million American Forestry grant at the federal level. While that funding supported critical early phases of our overall Urban Forestry Program, this new state-level grant will allow us to move into Phase 3: Tree Planting and Establishment.

-Where We Are in the Urban Forestry Program

Phase 1 – Public Tree Inventory & Risk Assessment

Completed by Davey Resource Group and funded through the American Forestry grant. This work provided a citywide evaluation of all public trees and identified hazardous or declining trees needing removal.

Phase 2 – Urban Forest Management & Master Planting Plan

Completed last week. This plan identifies all vacant planting sites throughout the city and recommends appropriate species for both replacement plantings and future canopy health.

Phase 3 – Tree Planting & Establishment (Now Funded!)

This new Urban Forestry grant will be focused on downtown Fostoria, specifically replacing all Callery pear trees, which are recognized as an invasive species. Many of our urban trees were planted at the same time decades ago, leading to many of them declining at the same time as well. Removing invasive or hazardous trees and replanting with healthy, diverse, and site-appropriate species will greatly improve the long-term health of our canopy.

-What to Expect Downtown

Our Tree & Beautification Commission has been working diligently to select the right species for the right locations while considering storefront visibility, safety, root behavior, sidewalk impacts, and long-term maintenance.

In the coming weeks, we will begin delivering informational materials to downtown business owners and tenants. For now, please note:

-All trees on Main Street from South Street to North Street will be removed and replaced as soon as possible.

-Behind the Scenes

We are actively using TreeKeeper, our new tree-management software, to log calls, track work orders, and ensure our crews are addressing needs efficiently.

A big thank you to Botimer Tree Service, Ernie Russell Stump Removal, and our own City of Fostoria crews for their hard work in improving our urban forest.

-Questions About a City Tree?

If you have a question about a tree in the boulevard in front of your home or if you notice a tree that may pose a hazard, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re committed to maintaining a safe, healthy, and sustainable urban canopy for generations to come.

Fostoria’s future is growing—literally!

(From Blanchard Valley Health System)

That’s a wrap on 2025!

Scroll to see the stats on how Blanchard Valley Health System has made an impact this year.

Thank you to everyone who has made BVHS’s mission possible — from associates, to volunteers, to community members. We are excited to continue caring for you in the new year.

Want to be part of these numbers next year?

Visit bvhealthsystem.org/schedule to view primary care openings and schedule your next appointment online.

Findlay and Hancock County are included in a High Wind Warning issued by the National Weather Service.

The High Wind Warning will be in effect on Monday from 1 a.m. until 10 p.m.

Winds could gust up to 60 miles per hour at times.

The damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines.

Some power outages are expected.

Travel will be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.

Watch for falling debris and tree limbs. Use caution if you must drive.

Get the latest forecast and weather alerts by clicking here.

(From the Ohio Department of Commerce)

Ohio’s minimum wage is scheduled to increase Jan. 1, 2026, to $11 per hour for non-tipped employees and $5.50 per hour for tipped employees.

This adjustment represents a 2.8% increase from the current 2025 rates of $10.70 for non-tipped employees and $5.35 for tipped employees. The change reflects the mandate of the Constitutional Amendment (II-34a), passed by Ohio voters in November 2006, which states Ohio’s minimum wage shall increase on Jan. 1 each year by the rate of inflation.

The minimum wage standard is tied to the Consumer Price Index for urban wage earners and clerical workers (CPI-W) for the 12-month period ending in August. The 2.8% increase corresponds to the CPI-W change from Sept. 1, 2024, to Aug. 31, 2025.

In addition to the wage rate adjustment, the threshold for business applicability will also change. Effective Jan. 1, 2026, the Ohio minimum wage will apply to businesses with annual gross receipts of more than $405,000, which is an increase from the current $394,000 threshold. For employees at businesses with annual gross receipts of $405,000 or less per year after Jan. 1, 2026, and for 14- and 15-year-old workers, the state minimum wage remains tied to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Any changes to this rate would require an act of the U.S. Congress and the President’s signature.

“We encourage all employers to stay informed and compliant with the updated wage rates and posting requirements,” said Stephen Clegg, Wage & Hour Administration Bureau Chief. “The Department of Commerce offers resources to support employers in meeting those obligations.”

To ensure compliance, employers are required to display the official 2026 Minimum Wage poster. This poster is available for download from the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Industrial Compliance website.