(From the City of Findlay)

Metronet, a regulated utility, is doing work within the right of way. This is not a City contracted or funded project.

If you have questions, comments, or concerns please contact Metronet’s customer service directly at (877) 386-3876.

You may submit a complaint on the Metronet website https://metronet.com/construction.

For questions about Metronet’s contractors please contact Micheal Neville, Project Director, at (740) 361–7545 or Micheal.Neville@Metronet.com. 

All employees are legally contracted through the firm and paying the required taxes while working in the Findlay area.

Below are some frequently asked questions about Metronet provided by the company:

Q: I’ve received information from Metronet. Who are they?

A: Metronet is a leading provider of 100% fiber optic internet, television, and telephone services. Metronet will install a citywide fiber-optic1 network either underground or on existing utility poles, giving city of Findlay residents access to gigabit2 speed internet, some of the fastest in the world, along with stunning television picture quality, and clear, reliable telephone service. Metronet currently provides service or is under construction in over 200 communities across 16 states. This collaborative investment provides the city of Findlay residents an additional choice for internet, television, and telephone bringing competition into the marketplace. Metronet has a website dedicated to addressing any questions or concerns residents may have about the construction process. Visit https://metronet.com/construction or call (877) 386-3876.

Q: Who are these people in my yard? Are they allowed to be there?

A: Yes. Metronet is obtaining the necessary permits to build out their network. Just like other utility companies, Metronet has the right to access the city’s right of way, which extends across streets from sidewalk to sidewalk, and easement areas, typically located along the street, the sidewalk, the rear lot line, or between two lots. Utility companies use easements to construct and maintain overhead and underground lines. Metronet crews have legal access to these areas to install their fiber cables, in addition to equipment such as boxes buried at ground level, typically placing them in a central location utilized by multiple utility providers. If your easement is within a fenced area of your property, Metronet will need access to this area as well. For more information about easements, and what you can expect during construction, click the CONSTRUCTION PROCESS tab at https://metronet.com/construction. If you have questions or concerns, call Metronet’s customer care line at (877) 386-3876.

Q: What if my lawn, fence, etc. is damaged during construction?

A: The construction phase of this project is temporary, and Metronet crews do their best to minimize the impact to property; however, technicians do need to either hang fiberoptic cables on utility poles or run them underground in order to extend service to subscribing residents. Metronet has a website dedicated to addressing any questions or concerns residents may have about construction. Visit https://metronet.com/construction and click on the ASK QUESTIONS tab to submit your question or concern. Residents can also call (877) 386-3876. Metronet promises to answer all inquiries and address any concerns within 24 hours (one business

Q: Can I move the flags in my yard?

A: Please do not remove the flags. Metronet is legally required to have utilities locate their underground transmission line, such as gas, water, and electric lines prior to construction. The flags show where the existing utilities are, helping Metronet crews avoid these areas. Once these colorful flags or temporary landscape-safe spray paint appear in your yard, or along the street, construction should begin within a week. Once construction is complete, the flags will be removed. Weather permitting, Metronet will rake, seed, and straw your lawn in the areas where digging occurred.

Q: I have a sprinkler system, dog fence, sump pump line or other underground item. What do I need to do to make sure these items are marked and avoided during construction?

A: It is very important to notify us of these items. Metronet will provide flags to you to mark these items, or you can choose to use landscape-safe spray paint (not provided by Metronet). You may also report these items to us at https://metronet.com/construction by clicking the “Ask Questions” tab.

Q: Why is Metronet going through my yard – I never said I wanted the service!

A: Metronet is creating a fiber network throughout the city, so people who want to sign up for service may do so. As with other utilities, the goal is to make it as widely accessible as possible, although there is obviously no requirement for any home sign up for service.

Q: How long will Metronet be in my yard doing work?

A: Metronet workers may be in your yard from 30 minutes up to one day. If other utilities are overhead, Metronet will install the fiber optic cables on existing poles. If utilities are underground, Metronet will bury the network in those same areas. Before doing underground work, Metronet will have the other utility companies locate their transmission lines and will temporarily move any obstacles within the utility easement.

Q: What’s a utility easement?

A: Utility easements are located on most properties and are designated by city ordinance to be accessible to utilities, such as gas, water, electric, and cable providers. Metronet will locate its fiber-optic network in these utility easements. Metronet’s construction website contains a wealth of information about what to expect during construction, including a video explaining utility easements. Visit the CONSTRUCTION PROCESS tab at https://metronet.com/construction to view the video and read additional information regarding construction.

(From Liberty-Benton Local Schools)

It’s National School Bus Safety Week!

Getting children to and from school safely is a number one priority for Liberty-Benton.

We thank our dedicated transportation staff for all they do to ensure our students’ safety every day!

(From the Findlay Family YMCA)

Come hungry to the Findlay Family YMCA’s tailgate-themed Men Who Cook! This fun public fundraiser for all who enjoy good food and football will be held Saturday, Nov. 9, from 6-9 p.m. at the Hancock Hotel.

Tickets are only $25. Proceeds will benefit the Y’s Annual Campaign, which helps financially challenged families afford Y memberships.

Our “chefs” – local community leaders who claim to know how to cook – will bring their best game by preparing signature dishes for participants to judge. Those who earn the most cash tips will get culinary champion bragging rights.

Lewis and Sarah Johnson of Findlay will serve as event hosts. Both work at Marathon Petroleum Corporation, with Lewis serving in mergers and acquisitions and Sarah working as an engineering supervisor.

Attendees will enjoy hearty appetizers, delicious non-alcoholic beverages, free valet parking, a cash bar, and plenty of football action on big-screen TVs.

The chefs will be Matt Hall, Lewis Johnson, Donnie Johnson, Josh Kin, Kegan Wise, JJ Preston, and Renato Esteves.

To purchase tickets, visit: https://findlayymca.networkforgood.com/events/77328-men-who-cook-tailgate-edition

(From the City of Findlay)

The City of Findlay is seeking the help of the citizens of Findlay for a donation of a tree for Findlay’s Christmas Tree that will be displayed in Dorney Plaza during the Christmas Season.

Requested specifications for the tree are listed below:
-25-35 feet tall
-Short Needle Spruce Tree (Preferred)
-Easily accessible for equipment to access
-No obstructions such as overhead lines
-No backyard trees unless totally accessible for large equipment

The City will remove the tree, grind the stump, clean up the area, and seed.

Additionally, we will plant a new tree in the spring if desired by the property owner.

The donor of the tree will be recognized on a plaque in front of the tree.

If you are interested in donating your tree, please contact Kathy Launder in the Mayor’s Office at 419-424-7137 or by email at klaunder@findlayohio.gov.

(From the Hancock Historical Museum)

Join us for an exciting evening of cinema at the Hancock Historical Museum on October 25 at 7 PM, as we present Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thriller, Strangers on a Train (1951). This iconic film, starring Robert Walker and Farley Granger, promises to keep you on the edge of your seat!

Based on Patricia Highsmith’s gripping novel, Strangers on a Train follows tennis star Guy Haines (Farley Granger), who is frustrated by his wife’s reluctance to finalize their divorce so he can marry senator’s daughter Anne (Ruth Roman). In a chance encounter, he meets the enigmatic Bruno Anthony (Robert Walker), who suggests a disturbing idea: swapping murders to eliminate their problems. What begins as a casual conversation spirals into a chilling series of events that leaves Guy as the prime suspect in a shocking crime. The film was nominated for Best Cinematography at the 1952 Academy Awards, showcasing its remarkable visual storytelling.

This unforgettable film will be screened at the Hancock Historical Museum, located at 422 West Sandusky Street in Findlay, OH. Sponsored by Gleaner Life Insurance Society’s Flag City Arbor, this movie night is free and open to the public. Complimentary popcorn will be provided!

Seating is limited, and reservations are encouraged but not required. Historical information will be shared before the movie, and guests are welcome to stay for a discussion afterward. Don’t miss this chance to experience one of Hitchcock’s finest works in a historic setting. Bring your friends, grab some popcorn, and immerse yourself in the suspense of Strangers on a Train!

The rest of the 2024 Classic Movie Line Up includes:

December 20 – White Christmas (G) 1954

Starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen

For more information, please call the museum at (419) 423-4433 or visit www.hancockhistoricalmuseum.org.

(From the Ohio Department of Transportation)

Since 2009, pedestrian deaths have been on the rise, hitting an all-time high in 2021 with 176 people killed. However, Ohio has recorded a steady decline of 6% in 2022 and 9% in 2023 with 165 and 150 pedestrian deaths, respectively. Through August, pedestrian deaths this year were also down 17% to 84.

Of 150 pedestrian deaths in Ohio last year, 103 occurred after dark. So far this year, there have been 84 pedestrian deaths, 73 of which occurred during dusk, dawn, or nighttime conditions.

“During National Pedestrian Safety Month, we remind drivers about the importance of obeying the speed limit, paying attention to the road ahead, and keeping an eye out for pedestrians,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Those who are walking or biking should also remember that they, too, must follow the rules of the road and watch out for traffic.”

Safety tips for motorists include:

Phone’s down. It’s the law. You can be stopped by law enforcement for violating Ohio’s distracted driving law.

Slow down. During the early morning and evening hours, more time is needed to see pedestrians.

Yield to people walking at intersections and marked crosswalks. Every intersection is a crosswalk whether it is marked or not.

Don’t pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk.

Check for people walking when turning.

Safety tips for pedestrians include:

Cross at intersections or in marked crosswalks.

Walk in the opposite direction of traffic where sidewalks aren’t available.

Reflective clothing and lights can make you more visible to motorists.

From 2019 – 2024, the Ohio Department of Transportation has invested more than $440 million directly into projects with a pedestrian or bicycle safety focus.

“The Ohio Department of Transportation has invested record-levels of funding to improve pedestrian safety on our roadways. We’ve also assisted municipalities across the state with funding and technical expertise to make their roadways safer for those who walk and bike,” said ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn.

ODOT has several programs that provide funding for pedestrian safety. The agency also helps local communities create active transportation plans and incorporates active transportation – which includes people walking, bicycling, using strollers, wheelchairs/mobility devices, skateboarding and rollerblading – design standards into many projects.

The Ohio Active Transportation Academy (ATA) provides training, workshops and implementation programs to communities throughout Ohio. It offers active transportation training on projects and policy to help communities reach their active transportation goals.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 145 million adults include walking as part of a physically active lifestyle. The CDC also found that physical activity such as walking can help improve overall health and lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, depression, and some cancers.

More than 6 in 10 people walk for transportation purposes, exercise, relaxation, or for other activities.

Walking can also improve local economies and enhance social and community engagement, which can lead to more vibrant, resilient, and livable communities.

The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office says one person was killed and others injured in a two-vehicle crash.

The crash happened a little after 2 p.m. Saturday at the intersection of County Roads 109 and 18 in Cass Township.

The sheriff’s office says Donovan Reinhart, 20, of Bloomville, was westbound on County Road 109 in a Chevy SUV when he failed to stop at the stop sign at County Road 18 and collided with a Honda CR-V being driven by Wesley Keegan, 47, of Fremont, that was going north on County Road 18.

After the collision, the Chevy overturned and came to rest in a field and the Honda came to rest northwest of the intersection.

The sheriff’s office says Donovan was pronounced deceased at the scene and Wesley was taken to Blanchard Valley Hospital for his injuries.

The sheriff’s office said two passengers in the Chevy were taken to hospitals with unknown injuries.

The crash remains under investigation.

(From the Findlay Family YMCA)

More than 1,000 community members helped the Findlay Family YMCA celebrate the season during the organization’s first Family Fall Fest held Thursday evening! In cooperation with several other nonprofit partners and businesses, children and their families enjoyed trick-or-treating, games, Legos, and other activities at the Downtown Branch and Child Development Center.

We offer a huge thank-you to the following for helping us make it all happen: Blanchard Valley Health Center Pediatrics, Hancock Hotel, Family Resource Center, Welcome to a New Life, Open Arms, Hancock Park District, UPS, Children’s Mentoring Connection, University of Findlay Mazza Museum, FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community, SAFY of Findlay/Lima, YWCA, Findlay Police Department, Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck, Pull Up & Grill, and Community Markets.

Furry Tales Mobile Workshop, a Findlay-based “traveling stuffed animal experience” that offers kids the opportunity to create their own cuddly friend in a one-of-a-kind, interactive learning environment, was also popular at our fall fest and donated part of its proceeds to the Y’s Annual Campaign, which helps financially disadvantaged families afford Y memberships.

The Fostoria Police Department has appointed a new D.A.R.E. officer for the school district.

D.A.R.E. stands for Drug Abuse Resistance Education.

Officer Shilo Frankart will teach a class at Fostoria Elementary School designed to help improve kids’ decision-making skills.

Police Chief Gabe Wedge said children face a growing number of high-risk circumstances and temptations and for years the D.A.R.E. program has been recognized as the gold standard to help students cope with the challenges they face every day.

The D.A.R.E. program has been a part of the Fostoria City Schools curriculum since 2008.

The D.A.R.E. program recently returned to Tiffin and you can read more about that by clicking here.

(ONN) – One of the major decisions facing Ohio voters in this election is choosing three justices for the state’s highest court.

A “state elections survey” found that more than 60 percent of voters struggle with that decision due to not knowing much about the candidates.

To help, the Ohio Bar Association created the website ‘JudicialVotesCount.org.’

It provides detailed information on judicial races by county, profiles on justices and answers to commonly asked questions.

Mary Augsburger, CEO of the Ohio Bar Association says you’ll hear from the candidates about their legal experience is, what their judicial philosophy is, and judge a little bit more about their character as well.

WFIN recently spoke with Incumbent Justice Michael Donnelly, a Democrat, and his challenger, Hamilton County Judge Megan Shanahan, a Republican. Click here for that story.