Category Archives: Local News

BVHS Celebrating One-Year Anniversary Of Wellness Park Campus

(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.

Browns Stadium Plans Prompt Surge In Unclaimed Funds Searches

(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.

Matt Demczyk (WFIN)

Donated Venison Helping Food Banks Feed Ohioans

(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.

Citizens Thank Police Department, Sheriff’s Office For Their Service

(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

MCPA Donates Items From First Season To Historical Museum

(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 Approves Farm Animal Ordinance

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.

BVHS Emphasizes Need For Early Detection Of Dementia

(From Blanchard Valley Health System)

Dementia has touched the lives of many members of our community.

In this BVHS Minute, Dr. William Kose and Lindsay Buddelmeyer, ODT, MOT, OTR/L, emphasize the need for early detection and highlight the resources available through Blanchard Valley Health System for dementia patients and their caregivers.

To view BVHS’s dementia support and resource page, please visit bvhs.info/dementiasupport.

Marathon Petroleum Names New Executive VP & CFO

(From Marathon Petroleum)

Marathon Petroleum Corp. (NYSE: MPC) today announced that Maria A. Khoury will join the company as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective January 19, 2026. Khoury will succeed John J. Quaid, who will remain with the company for a period of transition.

“Maria’s deep financial operations expertise and broad industry experience from 25 years as a global finance business leader, including previous roles in oil and gas, will be a strong addition to our executive team as we pursue MPC’s strategic objectives. Her proven abilities to develop competitive capital allocation, growth, financial planning, and risk management strategies will advance our efforts to continue positioning the company to deliver industry-leading cash generation and capital returns,” said Chairman-elect, President and Chief Executive Officer Maryann Mannen. “On behalf of our Boards of Directors, I thank John for his many contributions to MPC and MPLX.”

Since 2021, Khoury has served as Vice President, Group CFO Biotechnology for Danaher, a global science and technology innovator, where she has finance responsibility for Cytiva (formerly GE Healthcare Biopharma) and Pall Life Sciences, including oversight of the controllership, treasury, and tax functions. From 2017-2020, Khoury served as Vice President, Finance and IT for GE Healthcare Life Sciences, based in the United Kingdom.

Prior to her focus on life sciences, Khoury served in financial leadership positions for GE Oil & Gas in the United States and Italy from 2010 to 2017, including as CFO of GE’s Drilling and Surface division. From 1999 to 2010, she held global positions of increasing responsibility in financial planning and analysis and treasury for GE Corporate and GE Capital Treasury. Before joining GE in 1999, Khoury spent five years with Cargill, Inc., where she began her finance career.

Khoury holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Universidad Catolica Andres Bello in Venezuela, a diploma in international business strategy from the London School of Economics, and a Master of Business Administration degree in international finance from the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University.

About Marathon Petroleum Corporation

MPC is a leading, integrated, downstream and midstream energy company headquartered in Findlay, Ohio. The company operates the nation’s largest refining system. MPC’s marketing system includes branded locations across the United States, including Marathon brand retail outlets. MPC also owns the general partner and majority limited partner interest in MPLX LP, a midstream company that owns and operates gathering, processing, and fractionation assets, as well as crude oil and light product transportation and logistics infrastructure. More information is available at www.marathonpetroleum.com.

BGSU Recognized As One Of America’s Best Online Colleges

(From Bowling Green State University)

Bowling Green State University has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Top Online Colleges in its newly released 2026 rankings, reinforcing the University’s strong reputation for excellence in online education.

BGSU ranked No. 3 among Ohio’s public universities based on a survey of more than 10,000 Americans who evaluated their online learning experiences across several key areas, including organization, support, price, reputation, success and practical relevance.

“At BGSU, students become part of a supportive environment designed to provide a high-quality experience from day one,” said Curtis Brant, Ph.D., executive director for BGSU Online. “By providing career-relevant programs that foster engagement, support and accessibility, we are strengthening their connection to the University, which directly contributes to their success.”

BGSU Online, widely regarded by students and alumni for its high level of support, offers more than 70 bachelor’s, master’s and graduate certificate programs for learners at all stages of their academic journey.

From degree completion programs to graduate certificates and master’s programs, BGSU Online provides the flexibility and accessibility students need to advance in their current careers or transition to new ones.

BGSU Online students are taught by the same world-class BGSU faculty who teach on campus, ensuring a high-quality and engaging learning experience that prepares students for career advancement.

In addition to the Newsweek recognition, BGSU is the only university in Ohio and one of just six public universities nationwide to earn the Quality Matters Certification for Online Learner Support for all of its online programs.

Several BGSU Online programs have also earned individual accolades, further strengthening the University’s overall reputation for excellence in online education.

Among them is the MBA program, which is consistently recognized for its academic excellence, student experience, employment outcomes and affordability.

Earlier this year, the BGSU Online MBA program was named one of the best in Ohio and the nation by The Princeton Review for the second consecutive year, and Fortune rated it the most affordable in Ohio.