Findlay firefighters helped brighten the holidays for several local kids and their families.

The Findlay Fire Department again this year participated in the Shop with a Firefighter program, in conjunction with Findlay Hope House and Walmart.

WFIN News Director Matt Demczyk spoke with Travis Bohn about how much the event means to the children and the firefighters.

As Travis mentioned in the audio file above, firefighters took some children Christmas shopping at the Walmart on Tiffin Avenue, which donated $3,000 for the event. The firefighters union donated an additional 1,000, and in additional to that, they passed the boot around the fire stations and collected money for a nice gift basket for each family.

Firefighters, their wives, and other volunteers could be seen walking through the aisles with the kids as they bought gifts and essentials for their family members and themselves.

Millstream Area Credit Union volunteers then wrapped up the gifts for the families.

(From the University of Findlay)

The University of Findlay has hired Tyler Johns as its head football coach, Director of Athletics Jim Givens announced on Friday, Dec. 19.

Coach Johns, who played for the Oilers from 2009-2012, returns to Findlay from Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, North Carolina where he was most recently the interim head coach and served the last two years as the Runnin’ Bulldogs Offensive Coordinator / Offensive Line coach.

“I would like to sincerely thank (President) Dr. Katherine Fell, (Vice President) Mrs. Brandi Laurita, and especially (Director of Athletics) Jim Givens for the opportunity to lead the University of Findlay football program”, said Coach Johns. “The University of Findlay is home, and it has been instrumental in shaping who I am as a leader, educator, and mentor. I am incredibly excited to once again wear the Orange and Black and to invest in our Oilers, past, present, and future.”

He went on to compliment his former coach and Findlay’s latest head coach, Kory Allen. “Coach Allen has done an outstanding job elevating the football program and I will work tirelessly to build upon the success he has achieved while bringing a renewed energy, passion, and purpose to the lives of our student-athletes.”

A 2012 all-Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) lineman for the Oilers, Coach Johns first got into coaching immediately after college, working as an Assistant Offensive Line Coach at Iowa Western Community College. From there, he transitioned to the University of Illinois where he was a graduate assistant for two years, working on the offensive line with multiple future NFL players.

His first full-time job came in 2017 where he became the Offensive Line Coach / Recruiting Coordinator at Ohio Dominican University in Columbus, Ohio. In his time with the Panthers, ODU won a Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC) conference championship and boasted one of the top offenses in the country. In that time, ODU had seven offensive lineman earn all-conference honors and had a pair of all-Americans on offense including Harlon Hill Nominee and G-MAC Player of the Year at quarterback.

In 2019 he moved on to Tiffin University where he debuted as the Run Game Coordinator / Offensive Line Coach, but eventually became the Offensive Coordinator for a program that won three G-MAC titles and went to the NCAA Division II Playoffs twice in five seasons. At Tiffin, Coach Johns led his offensive lineman to 19 all-conference awards and called plays for an offense that produced a three-time G-MAC Player of the Year at quarterback.

“We are excited to welcome back to Findlay Coach Tyler Johns and his family”, commented Director of Athletics Jim Givens. “From the beginning of this process, it was clear that Tyler carried all the attributes that we desire in a head football coach here at Findlay. He has a proven track record of developing student-athletes to be their best on and off the field and possesses a high-level knowledge of the game that makes him exactly what we require in a head coach. As an alumni of our university and former coach within our league, he also has an understanding and passion for the history and tradition of Findlay football that we believe will this a seamless transition.”

Coach Johns will be introduced officially as Findlay’s head football coach in the Gardner Football Complex on Tuesday, December 30 at 2:00 pm. Fans will be able to watch the press conference live on the Great Midwest Digital Network. Johns will later be introduced to the public at the men’s basketball game in Croy Gymnasium at 7:00 pm that evening.

(From the Office of the Ohio State Fire Marshal)

Nearly 200 fire departments will soon have access to additional funds to upgrade their emergency radio communication equipment. The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal has announced the recipients of the 2026 MARCS (Multi-Agency Radio Communications Systems) Grant. During this grant cycle, 198 fire departments representing 63 counties across Ohio have been awarded a combined total of nearly $4 million.

A complete list of MARCS Grant recipients is available here. Upon signing agreement letters, the selected fire departments will receive the funds in early 2026.

The MARCS radio system provides statewide, secure, reliable public service wireless communication for first responders. The system allows first responders to seamlessly communicate with each other, as well as with other agencies that may be responding to an incident. Costs to acquire and operate the advanced MARCS radio system technology can be significant, which highlights the importance of these grants in helping to ensure fire departments of all sizes are able to access these valuable tools.

“This grant funding is a major resource for fire departments across Ohio, especially since it helps give them access to MARCS radios that they might not otherwise be able to purchase,” said Ohio State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon. “These radios help first responders better serve Ohio communities and protect those who call them home.”

The MARCS Grant is available annually to fire departments with service areas of 25,000 residents or less. Up to $50,000 per department is available through the grant. Priority funding goes to departments applying as part of a regional or countywide effort, as well as departments that show they are prepared to immediately begin using the MARCS radios upon receiving the funds.

Since 2020, the Division has awarded more than $24 million to fire departments across the state specifically through the MARCS Grant program, and an additional $13 million through its other grant programs to support equipment and training needs at departments.

For additional details on grant funding, visit the Division’s interactive Grants Dashboard at com.ohio.gov/SFMDashboard.

(From Blanchard Valley Health System)

This month, Blanchard Valley Health System (BVHS) is celebrating the one-year anniversary of Wellness Park, its comprehensive 75,000-square-foot location near the I-75 exit. Since opening its doors, Wellness Park has expanded access, added convenience, and brought together the following range of coordinated services:

• Primary Care at Wellness Park
• Endocrinology & Diabetes Specialists of Northwest Ohio (including the Community Glucose Monitoring Project)
• Rheumatology Specialists of Northwest Ohio
• Blanchard Valley Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
• Julie A. Cole Rehab & Sports Medicine Services, including dedicated pediatric rehabilitation for occupational, speech, and behavioral health therapy
• Neurosurgical Associates of Northwest Ohio
• Onsite imaging and laboratory services
• Podiatry, sports medicine, and additional specialty services

A Year of Impact

In its first year, Wellness Park has seen remarkable growth and utilization, including:

• More than 55,000 patient visits.
• Eight new physicians and advanced practice providers, with more scheduled to join in 2026.
• The introduction of online self-scheduling for many services at Wellness Park and other BVHS locations.

“Wellness Park was opened to meet the growing demand for primary and specialty care through an emphasis on proactive health management,” said Myron D. Lewis, MSW, MBA, FACHE, president and chief executive officer. “One year later, we are proud to see that vision becoming a reality for individuals, families, and employers across the community.”

For Northwest Ohio residents, the campus is improving access to quality services close to home and has become a destination for regional care. “Wellness Park has experienced an outstanding first year,” said Kelly Shroll, chief operating officer, ambulatory services. “We look forward to building upon the primary care, specialty care, diagnostics, and therapies offered, as we plan for 2026 and beyond.”

Advancing the BVHS Mission

Alongside other major projects—including the expansion of The Armes Family Cancer Care Center and the development of the Acute Rehabilitation Unit at Blanchard Valley Hospital—Wellness Park furthers BVHS’ long-standing mission of “Caring for a lifetime.”

These space-planning initiatives are gaining vital momentum, thanks to the community they are designed to serve. “We’re humbled by our community’s generosity,” said Ben Sapp, chief development officer. “Our capital campaign has already secured nearly $15 million in gifts—a direct investment in the future of accessible, compassionate care.”

Ensuring Wellness Park’s continued evolution requires sustained community giving. “By working together, we can make this destination for health and wellness even more remarkable for current and future residents,” continued Sapp.

For more information about Wellness Park, visit bvhealthsystem.org/wellness.

To learn more about making a difference through the BVHS Capital Campaign, visit bvhealthsystem.org/ourfuture.

(ONN) – The Cleveland Browns are set to receive $600 million in unclaimed Ohio funds to help pay for their new stadium, and the Ohio Department of Commerce is reporting a surge in people trying to claim their money.

Between June and November of this year, when the Browns’ stadium plans first made headlines, people filed more than 122,000 claims.

Compare that to 2024, when just under 23,000 claims were filed.

That’s an increase of 435 percent.

If you file a claim, the Ohio Department of Commerce says it could take up to 120 days to review.

This is a normal part of the verification process.

(ONN) – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife helped collect more than 3,000 pounds of processed deer meat during the weeklong deer gun season to support food pantries in Ohio.

Deer donation days were held at select locations across the state and more drop off days are planned.

This year, the Division of Wildlife partnered the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction meat processing facility at the Pickaway Correctional Institution.

So far, more than 1,100 pounds of venison have been given to the Ohio Association of Foodbanks for distribution in several counties.

One deer can provide up to 200 meals.

(From Findlay Trojan Sports)

Trojans making noise at the next level!

Alumni Sam Weihrauch earns D2 Second Team All-American honors, and Luke Montgomery is named a D1 Second Team All-American.

Proud moment for our program and our Trojan family!

(From the Tiffin Police Department)

Thank You, VFW Post 2858!

On behalf of the Tiffin Police Department and the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office, a heartfelt thank you to the members of VFW Post 2858 for hosting the 5th Annual Tiffin Police–Seneca County Sheriff’s Christmas Party.

The evening was a lot of fun and a great reminder of what makes our law enforcement family special was seeing our younger staff spending time with retired members, sharing stories, laughter, and plenty of good cheer. Those cross-generational connections truly matter, and your hospitality created the perfect setting for them to happen.

You could not have been more gracious hosts. From rolling out the red carpet to the thoughtful and welcoming sign, every detail made our folks feel genuinely appreciated and at home. It did not go unnoticed and was deeply appreciated by everyone who attended.

Thank you for your generosity, your continued support, and all that you do for our community and for those who serve. We are grateful for the partnership and look forward to many more opportunities to gather together in the future.

With sincere appreciation,

Chief David Pauly

(From the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts)

Ten years ago today, MCPA welcomed its very first audience with “Kenny Rogers’ Toy Shoppe, starring Alan Thicke”, marking the beginning of a journey filled with creativity, community, and the arts.

In honor of the milestone, Executive Director Heather Clow and Outreach Coordinator Kelda Heitkamp donated cherished memories from our inaugural season to the Hancock Historical Museum, preserving the story of where it all began and celebrating the community that made it possible.

Donated items include a book of opening night and ribbon-cutting photos, an inaugural season playbill, the first Fisher/Wall Art Gallery exhibition brochure, MCPA’s community campaign brochure, and an usher vest. We’re proud to be part of the museum’s collection!

Findlay City Council passed an ordinance regarding having farm animals within city limits.

The city says the Farm Animal Ordinance establishes clear, consistent, and fair regulations for keeping farm animals within city limits, protects animal welfare and public health, addresses growing interest in backyard livestock, and provides clear standards to reduce neighborhood conflicts and enforcement ambiguity.

Get more details on the ordinance below, and by clicking here. 

ORDINANCE NO. 2025-154

AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING CLEAR, CONSISTENT AND FAIR REGULATIONS

FOR THE KEEPING OF FARM ANIMALS IN THE CITY.

BE IT ORDAINED by the Council for the City of Findlay, Ohio:

WHEREAS, Council for the City of Findlay desires to establish clear, consistent and fair

regulations for the keeping of farm animals in the City, and;

WHEREAS, Council for the City of Findlay desires to address growing community

interest in backyard livestock with the intention of providing standards to prevent

nuisance issues, protect animal welfare and public health.

SECTION 1. That effective immediately upon adoption of this Ordinance, the new

regulations on the keeping of farm animals in the City of Findlay as attached hereto

shall be active and enforced.

WHEREFORE, this Ordinance shall take effect and be in force from and after its

passage and approval by the Mayor.

NEW CHAPTER 508 – FARM ANIMALS

508.01 Purpose.

The regulations of this chapter are established to permit the non-commercial keeping of farm animals

within the City, provided that such animals are properly cared for, do not create nuisances, and are

maintained in safe and sanitary conditions. These regulations shall be enforced in conjunction with

Section 505.08 of the Findlay Municipal Code and the Ohio Administrative Code 901:12.

508.02 Small Farm Animals.

(a) Permitted Use. Small Farm Animals may be kept on any parcel within the City without limitation on

lot size or number, provided they are maintained in accordance with all other applicable regulations.

508.03 Medium Farm Animals.

(a) Lot Size. No Medium Farm Animal shall be kept on a parcel less than one (1) acre in area.

(b) Fencing. All animals shall be contained within a fenced enclosure located only within the rear yard.

(c) Shelter. All Medium Farm Animals shall be provided with shelter that complies with applicable

building and zoning setback requirements.

508.04 Large Farm Animals.

(a) Lot Size. No Large Farm Animal shall be kept on a parcel less than three (3) acres in area.

(b) Fencing and Shelter. Fencing and shelter requirements shall be the same as those set forth in Section

508.03.

508.05 Sanitation and Nuisance Standards.

(a) Animal Welfare. All animals shall be kept in a clean, healthy, and humane condition.

(b) Slaughtering. Only Small Farm Animals may be slaughtered on-site, and only for household

consumption. Such slaughtering shall not be visible from adjoining properties or public rights-of-way.

(c) Nuisance Control. The keeping of any farm animal shall comply with the nuisance provisions of

Chapter 505 of this Code.

508.06 4-H and Educational Exemption.

(a) Animals kept as part of a recognized 4-H, Future Farmers of America (FFA), or similar youth

agricultural education program shall be permitted.

(b) Written verification of enrollment or program participation shall be provided to the City upon request.

508.07 Grandfathering.

(a) Animals lawfully kept prior to the effective date of this chapter may remain as a legal nonconforming

use, provided:

(1) The number of animals or facilities is not expanded;

(2) The use is continuous and not discontinued for twelve (12) months; and

() Nonconforming rights shall transfer with the property.

508.08 Definitions.

For the purposes of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply:

(a) Farm Animals, Small – Animals with an expected adult weight of less than fifty (50) pounds,

including but not limited to chickens, ducks, rabbits, and similar animals.

(b) Farm Animals, Medium – Livestock with an expected adult weight between fifty (50) and five

hundred (500) pounds, including but not limited to goats, sheep, and similar animals.

(c) Farm Animals, Large – Livestock with an expected adult weight greater than five hundred (500)

pounds, including but not limited to horses, cows, pigs, and similar animals.

(d) Companion Animal or Pet: As defined by the Ohio Revised Code §959.131, a companion animal

includes any animal that is kept inside a residential dwelling and is dependent on humans for food and

shelter, but does not include livestock or wild animals. Examples include dogs, cats, rabbits, small birds,

hamsters, and similar animals customarily kept indoors.

(e) Livestock or Farm Animal: As defined by Ohio Administrative Code 901:12-1-02, livestock

includes equine animals, cattle, sheep, goats, swine, poultry, alpacas, llamas, and other animals raised for

human food, fiber, or agricultural purposes.

508.99 Penalty

(a) Whoever violates any provision of this chapter is guilty of a minor misdemeanor and shall be fined

not less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00).

(b) In all cases, wherein, a person has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to a violation of any provision

of this chapter, the court shall, in addition to any fine or sentenced imposed upon the offender, order the

nuisance abated within thirty (30) days.

(c) Nothing in this penalty section shall prevent the City from pursuing other actions or charges under the Ohio Revised Code.