(From the Findlay Family YMCA)

The Findlay Family YMCA Frogs Swim Team’s new head coach, Jeff Wobser, not only has extensive coaching and competitive experience, but has ideas for expanding and improving the program. 

Wobser got his start in competitive swimming at age 8 on the Findlay Family YMCA’s swim team.  He learned to love the sport while being coached by then Head YMCA Coach Larry Brown. He moved on to the Findlay High School Swimming and Diving Team, winning three Ohio State High School championships in the 50 and 100 freestyle. He then attended the University of Tennessee (UT) in Knoxville, where he competed for the Volunteers for two years.   

Wobser started his coaching career at UT as an assistant under NCAA Championship and Olympic Coach Ray Bussard.  During his four years with Coach Bussard, he learned the importance of teaching stroke technique and athlete development to achieve competitive goals.  While in Knoxville, he was also the head senior coach of Pilot Aquatic Club (now Tennessee Aquatics) and head coach of the Sevierville Swim Team.   

After graduation, Wobser joined Marathon Petroleum Company LP, where he worked for 32 years before retiring in 2020. In 2001, while with Marathon, he accepted a transfer back to his hometown and, shortly after, accepted the head coaching position at Findlay High School. He was the head coach through 2012 and has been an assistant coach for the Trojans ever since. 

“Coaching in Findlay had been a dream of mine since I began coaching in Knoxville, Tennessee,” said Wobser. “I appreciate the opportunity to work with student-athletes and to be able to teach them how to compete in the pool and out. Competitive swimming has been my lifelong passion. Coaching at Findlay has allowed me to give back to the sport and city, which gave me great opportunities when I was growing up.” 

“When the opportunity to lead the YMCA age group swim team came up, I was excited about the prospect of growing the program and raising it to new levels of achievement,” Wobser continued, “My goal for the Y swim team is to build it into the premier program in Northwest Ohio, a program that not only our parents and athletes can be proud of, but also one that the City of Findlay will recognize. This means that we will not only compete at a high level in the Ohio region but also provide growth opportunities for all children who want to swim.” 

Along with coaching, Wobser has also served as a Findlay councilman-at-large since 2015. 

(From Downtown Findlay)

Black Friday is out, PINK FRIDAY IS IN!

Mark your calendars for Pink Friday on November 22nd!

This special day is all about choosing local first—before the big box stores and Black Friday frenzy.

When you shop in Downtown Findlay, you’re not just buying gifts; you’re supporting families, dreams, and the community we love.

Let’s make this holiday season one to remember by keeping it local!

For more info head to: visitfindlay.com/shop-local/

The Leipsic Community Center will be hosting a free Thanksgiving meal.

It will be held on Wednesday, November 20 from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

At will donations will be accepted.

The Leipsic Community Center is located at 120 East Main Street in Leipsic.

(From Bowling Green State University)

Further expanding its academic programs in health care fields, Bowling Green State University has launched Ohio’s first and only hybrid, accelerated Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program, with applications now open for Fall 2025.

Through the two-year program, students will take classes online and will travel to campus only twice per semester for comprehensive, hands-on clinical lab experience, making the program accessible to students nationwide.

The innovative BGSU OTD program is among the few in the country offered in a hybrid, accelerated format, empowering graduates to enter the workforce faster.

“We are thrilled to launch this program and to offer it in such a unique and accessible way,” said Dr. Jason Hughes, BGSU OTD program director and associate professor. “Occupational therapists play a critical role in health care, and our program will ensure communities large and small have access to quality care from highly skilled professionals.”

Housed in the School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, the unique BGSU OTD program complements the University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, which launched in 2021 and follows a similar format and structure.

Expanding access to education
Occupational therapists are needed in communities across the country to help people improve or regain their ability to perform daily tasks.

To improve accessibility, the BGSU OTD program will bolster the profession by reducing educational barriers for students through a holistic admissions process that does not require interviews or testing. Instead, the program prioritizes factors like student GPA, statement of purpose and prior educational experience.

The University’s unique, flexible format also lowers overall student costs by eliminating the need for relocation, increasing access to occupational therapy education.

“With a growing need for occupational therapists, the BGSU OTD program will place more professionals in the field and in communities where they’re critically needed,” said Dr. Jackson Miller, BGSU OTD program admissions director and assistant clinical professor. “Our program’s all-encompassing admissions approach expands access to a quality education while allowing students to remain connected to their support systems. Upon graduation, BGSU OTD students will be well-prepared to serve their communities and provide an essential health care service.”

Experienced and respected faculty
Students admitted to the BGSU OTD program will learn from experienced, board-certified faculty in various disciplines and settings, from pediatrics to orthopedics.

BGSU OTD faculty will empower students with a multifaceted and comprehensive approach to education guided by Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) standards. Based on rigorous benchmarks, students will learn how to develop and apply strong clinical judgment and effective reasoning into their practice that prioritizes patient outcomes and recovery.

“Students in the BGSU OTD program will earn a well-rounded, rigorous education to prepare them for successful and in-demand careers” said Dr. Jim Ciesla, dean of the BGSU College of Health and Human Services. “BGSU OTD faculty are highly respected in their field and bring a wealth of diverse knowledge and professional perspectives to an innovative program that will provide a comprehensive education for students from all backgrounds.”

The BGSU OTD program has approval from the Ohio Department of Higher Education and the Higher Learning Commission and has also applied for ACOTE accreditation.

Promising career prospects
With a growing need for occupational therapists nationwide, BGSU OTD graduates will enter the workforce faster and earn a salary sooner than those in traditional programs.

After earning licensure, graduates can expect to earn an average of $96,000 per year and will be able to practice in various settings, including hospitals, schools and outpatient clinics, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The occupational therapy profession overall is slated to grow 11% in the next decade, which is faster than average for other careers.

“Through its accelerated, hybrid format, the BGSU OTD program is poised to make a significant and positive difference for the profession and patients,” Hughes said. “We are excited to expand education in a growing career field that will, in turn, expand access to occupational therapy in communities nationwide.”

For more information on the BGSU OTD program and to apply, visit BGSU.edu/academics/graduate/occupational-therapy-doctorate.

(From the Tiffin Police Department)

Over the past two weeks, Tiffin has experienced a rash of vehicle break-ins. These incidents are not isolated to any specific area—they are happening across the city. While the Tiffin Police Department is actively investigating and working to identify those responsible, we need your help to keep our community safe.

Here are several steps you can take to protect your vehicle and belongings:

-Lock your doors: Most of these break-ins involve unlocked vehicles. Double-check that your doors are locked, even when parked at home.

-Remove valuables: Avoid leaving wallets, purses, electronics, or other valuables in plain sight. Take them inside or hide them out of view.

-Park smart: Park in well-lit areas or close to your home. If you have a garage, use it.

-Install security measures: Consider dash cams, security cameras, or motion-activated lights around your property.

-Report suspicious activity: If you see anything unusual—such as people checking car doors—call us immediately at (419) 447-2323.

Your vigilance is key to helping us stop these crimes. If you’ve been a victim or have security footage that could help identify suspects, please contact us. Together, we can work to keep Tiffin safe!

Thank You,

Chief Pauly

(From the City of Findlay)

The City of Findlay and Hancock County Commissioners are pleased to announce that the City of Findlay, on behalf of the entire community, has been conditionally approved for a $24 million Flood Hazard Mitigation Grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to advance ongoing flood mitigation efforts in Hancock County. This grant, under FEMA’s Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program, is pending final FEMA approval, which includes a National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) compliance review and confirmation of a positive cost-benefit ratio. If awarded, the funds will significantly support two vital flood mitigation projects, marking an important step forward in Hancock County’s commitment to reduce flood risks and enhance safety for its residents, said Findlay Mayor Christina Muryn.

A preliminary call was held on October 30 with FEMA Region V and Ohio Emergency Management Agency representatives to discuss the conditional approval. The FMA grant is anticipated to provide $19 million for the construction of the Eagle Creek Flood Basin and an additional $5 million for benching projects, including those between Cory Street and the CSX tracks and around the Norfolk Southern (NS) railroad bridge. Pending final approval, grant funds will likely be available within 6 to 9 months. No construction on these projects will commence until formal grant approval is granted.

The City of Findlay and Hancock County Commissioners remain dedicated to flood mitigation efforts, with the goal of enhancing community resilience and reducing future flood risks. Therefore, the Hancock County Commissioners and City of Findlay are working to finalize a Memorandum of Agreement with the Maumee Watershed Conservancy District to move forward with allocating local funds toward the critical Norfolk Southern Railroad Bridge replacement. The agreement is expected to be executed by the end of this year and the project to be put out to bid in early 2025. These projects, in coordination with state and federal partners, represent substantial progress in the city’s long-term flood protection strategy. Formal approvals are anticipated within the coming months, and updates will be provided as they become available.

Flood Mitigation Background and Updates

1. Eagle Creek Flood Basin

The Eagle Creek Flood Basin project represents a cornerstone of the city’s flood mitigation plan. Acquisition of the final two properties for the Basin’s construction is expected to conclude by year-end, and a formal construction permit for the embankment and spillway has been issued by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Dam Safety section. The Basin’s construction will be funded through the FMA grant, if approved, and remaining funds from $60 million in grants provided by the State of Ohio over the last 7 years. Construction bidding will begin upon final approval of the FMA grant.

2. Additional Benching Projects

If approved, the FMA grant will also fund additional benching projects, while the Ohio Department of Development (ODOD) Brownfield program may provide up to $1 million for necessary soil remediation east of Main Street and south of Clinton Court. Hancock Regional Planning Commission submitted a Brownfield grant application, and Civil Engineering Consultants (CEC) and Stantec are preparing soil remediation specifications to be included in the benching project bid.

3. Norfolk Southern (NS) Railroad Bridge 

A critical project in addressing flood mitigation, the NS bridge replacement, is currently being facilitated by a $7.1 million RAISE grant from the Federal Rail Administration to the Maumee Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD). Hancock County and the City of Findlay have committed up to $5 million and $4.6 million, respectively, to cover local funding requirements. A Memorandum of Agreement outlining these commitments is currently in front of Findlay City Council for approval with execution expected by the end of the year. The NS bridge project and associated benching will be coordinated to streamline federal review and ensure timely project progression.

4. Hydraulic Improvements Phase 1

Following the successful completion of the initial benching project in October of 2024, between Howard Run and the NS railroad, Stantec is preparing a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) for FEMA to designate properties no longer within the floodplain due to lower water surface elevations achieved through these improvements.

5. Successful Completion of 68/15 Interchange Improvements

The 68/15 interchange, vital to the city’s infrastructure and connected to the flood mitigation strategy through adjustments to Township Road 80, officially opened to traffic on November 4. This project, funded by a Federal grant administered by the Ohio Department of Transportation and a 20% local share from the City of Findlay, is an important infrastructure enhancement for the region.

(From the Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce)

The 38th annual Blaze of Lights holiday celebration, including the lighting of the Ream collection of vintage Christmas Folk-Art, is scheduled for Saturday, November 30 in downtown Bluffton, Ohio. The Ream display and thousands of lights in the surrounding trees are available for nightly viewing on the lawn of Bluffton Presbyterian Church, 102 N. Main Street, Bluffton from November 30 through January 1.  The community joins in the Blaze spirit with numerous residential holiday light displays and folk-art decorations throughout the Village located off I-75.

Activities on November 30 begin with Small Business Saturday specials at downtown businesses.  One of the largest holiday parades in the area begins on Snider Road at 5 PM and travels up Main Street to College Avenue. Following the parade, entertainment will be offered on the main stage.  At 6:30 p.m. the lighting ceremony will begin with the reading of the Christmas story followed by the lighting of the Ream display. 

After the parade, you can visit Santa, drop off your letters to Santa, ride the Romick Railway, and ride the Allen County RTA Trolley for a tour of decorated homes all at no charge. 

The After Blaze returns this year on Vine Street with selections of beer, bourbon pours, spiced wine, and hot chocolate, along with food trucks, local food vendors.  You can hang out around one of the firepits, or enjoy live music under a heated tent.

The Blaze of Lights celebration is sponsored by the Village of Bluffton and Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce.  For more information about the event, visit www.explorebluffton.com or contact Jim Enneking, Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce executive director at 419-369-2985.

(From the City of Findlay)

The City of Findlay will be picking up leaves from November 18, 2024, through December 6, 2024. City employees will collect leaves that have been placed in biodegradable PAPER bags at the curb. Plastic bags and loose leaves will not be picked up. Bagged leaves are to be placed by the curb.

Limbs that are placed beside the bagged leaves will also be picked up. The limbs will be picked up separately from the leaves.

Crews will start picking up leaves on November 18, 2024. Crews will make several rounds throughout the whole City through December 6, 2024.

Biodegradable bags are readily available at local hardware, building supply, and some grocery stores.

Raking leaves into the street has many negative aspects. Leaf piles in the street can be a dangerous temptation to children who like to play in the piles and in many areas reduce the traffic to one lane or cause drivers to drive around the piles into oncoming traffic. Piled leaves tend to wash into and clog storm sewers, causing maintenance issues and potential localized flooding during storm events. Residents who blow or rake leaves onto City streets are in violation of long-standing City Codified Ordinance 311.01(d). Complaints should be forwarded to the Police Department.

City residents may continue to drop leaves at the green waste site located at 330 North Cory Street at no charge. The current hours for the site are Tuesday through Friday 2pm-7pm and Saturday 8am-1pm, closed Sunday and Monday. Beginning November 4, 2024, hours for the site will be Tuesday through Friday 1pm-6pm and Saturday 8am-1pm, closed Sunday and Monday. Beginning November 16, 2024, Saturday hours will be 8am-4pm. The green waste site will be closed on Monday, November 11, 2024, in honor of Veterans Day and November 28, 2024, for Thanksgiving. It will be open on November 29, 2024, and November 30, 2024. The last day for the green waste site will be December 7, 2024.

The green waste site is intended for residential use only. No contractors are permitted to use this site. Only tree trimmings, brush, leaves, and grass clippings can be dumped in designated areas at the site.

Millstream Career Center will be undergoing a $3.4 million expansion project thanks to a career tech grant from the state of Ohio.

The expansion project will enable Millstream to add a Manufacturing and Industrial Robotics program and expand its Engineering and Robotics program.

Millstream Director Pam Hamlin is excited about this expansion and how many more students will be able to utilize the programs as they are currently on a wait list.

Pam Says if everything stays on schedule the new programs should be ready to go for the beginning of next school year.

See video of the indoor groundbreaking, as it was rainy on the day of the announcement, below.

(From Blanchard Valley Health System)

The Armes Family Cancer Care Center, a division of Blanchard Valley Health System, will close its front lobby entrance for renovations on Monday, December 9.

the closure will last approximately 30 days. During this period, patients will need to use alternate entrances.

Construction is taking place to fully renovate the front lobby and patient check-in area. This is the latest phase of renovations of the entire facility, which are underway to ensure a brighter future for AFCCC patients and the community.

The field of cancer care is ever-evolving, and the large project will incorporate the latest medical technology and design to ensure BVHS patients receive the best care and experience. Once construction is complete, the center will have nine new exam rooms, eight new infusion chairs, an expanded pharmacy, an expanded lab, a new advanced linear accelerator, and a fully renovated front lobby and patient check-in area.

In addition to advanced technology and equipment, the renovated cancer center will offer improved privacy and comfort. The team at the AFCCC is committed to keeping disruptions to a minimum and remains dedicated to patient care.

Patients should use the front entrance, and park in the front lot, to visit the following physicians and providers: Dr. Omar Al Asad, Dr. Ike Onwere, Dr. Derek Thomas, Dr. Sandra Hazra, Mara Hummel, APRN-CNP, and Brian Jones, APRN-CNP. This entrance is also recommended for patients coming to infusion therapy appointments (with or without a lab appointment) and those coming solely for a laboratory appointment.

Patients should use the back entrance, and park in the back lot (behind the building), to visit the following physicians and providers: Dr. Stephen Lutz, Dr. Ankit Modh, Dr. Sharon Cole, Dr. Anjalika Gandhi, Dr. Adam Walter, and Mary Beth Brown, APRN-CNP. This entrance is also recommended for patients coming for radiation therapy treatments.

A map can be found at https://www.bvhealthsystem.org/media-center/news-article?news=2066

Anyone with questions can call 419.423.5522.

For more information on cancer care at Blanchard Valley Health System, please visit bvhealthsystem.org/cancer