(From Findlay City Schools)

Announcing our 2025 Findlay High School Homecoming Court:

Back Row: Isaac Weese, Will Hammer, Jaycob Bosse, Reece Stillings, Braden Cramer
Front Row: Libby Mihalik, Lauren Heydinger, Rayanna Cap, Lola Spieles, Olivia Gayhart

Celebrate with us the week of September 21-27, 2025!

Spirit Week Themes:
Monday (9/22): Pajama Day
Tuesday (9/23): Jersey Day
Wednesday (9/24): Royalty Day
Thursday (9/25): Surfers vs. Bikers
Friday (9/26): Blue & Gold

Homecoming Parade 9/26: 5:30pm
Homecoming Football Game 9/26: 7:00pm

We can’t wait to see who receives the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award, watch our Alumni Cheerleaders and Band, and celebrate the 20th Reunion of the class of 2005.

Join us for Homecoming 2025, Trojan Country!

Ohio Senate President Rob McColley and State Representative Ty Mathews stopped by the WFIN Studios on Friday to discuss their latest work in the Ohio Legislature and other issues.  

Redistricting, property tax reform, and political violence and the Charlie Kirk killing were some of the issues we discussed with Mathews, a native of Arlington.

Mathews says resorting to violence against someone who holds different political views is totally and utterly unacceptable, and we need to respect the opinion of others even if we don’t agree with them. 

“This has been the greatest nation I believe this world has ever seen, and that’s what we need to look at as citizens in this country and really tune down on the hateful political rhetoric – and I’ll say – on both sides.”   

Listen back to our full interview with Mathews by clicking on the audio file below.

McColley and Mathews were in Findlay Friday to speak at the Hancock County GOP luncheon at the American Legion on West Front Street and were kind enough to stop by WFIN beforehand.

Reineke Ford Lincoln will be holding an event called Drive 4 UR Community benefiting Millstream Career Center.

It will be held on Tuesday, September 16 from 3 to 7 at Reineke Ford Lincoln, 12000 County Road 99, in Findlay.

For every valid test drive in a new Ford vehicle, Ford Motor Company will contribute $30 to Millstream Career Center, with donations totaling up to $6,000.

“It’s a quick and easy way for community members to get behind the wheel of a new Ford and make a difference locally,” said Alex Reineke of Reineke Family Dealerships.

“Millstream Career Center plays a vital role in preparing students for careers in our community and beyond,” he added.  

“We’re proud to partner with Ford Motor Company on this event and give our neighbors a chance to support Millstream in such a fun, engaging way.”

The initiative is part of Ford’s Drive 4 UR Community program, which has raised millions of dollars nationwide to support schools, nonprofits, and local causes.

(From the Findlay Police Department)

It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of one of our own, Officer John Schimmoeller, who dedicated 29 years of distinguished service to our department and the Findlay community. His dedication, strength, and compassion made a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Officer Schimmoeller was a respected member of our department – a dedicated public servant, a trusted colleague, and a steady presence throughout our ranks. His contributions over nearly three decades reflect a deep commitment to duty, integrity, and the well-being of others. His absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

During this time of mourning, our thoughts are with Officer Schimmoeller’s family, friends, and all who knew and loved him. We respectfully ask the community to join us in honoring his memory and keeping those closest to him in your thoughts.

We are reminded that behind the badge are individuals who carry the weight of this work every day. As we honor Officer Schimmoeller’s life and legacy, we also recommit ourselves to looking after one another and ensuring that every member of our department knows they are never alone.

Officer Schimmoeller, thank you for your service. You will never be forgotten.

Rest easy, Brother. We’ll take it from here.

The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information about stolen road signs.

The sheriff’s office said signs are being stolen the most in the area of Road 6.

Anyone with information on the stolen signs is asked to contact the sheriff’s office at 419-523-3208.

(From the Ohio Department of Taxation)

If you get a text message claiming to be from the Ohio Department of Taxation, it’s a scam.

-We do NOT text taxpayers about tax matters or demand payment via text.

-Do NOT click links or share personal info.

-If you’re unsure about a message, contact us directly through our official channels.

Stay safe. Stay informed.

(From the Alzheimer’s Association)

The Alzheimer’s Association invites Northwest Ohioans to register for the 2025 Findlay/Hancock County Walk to End Alzheimer’s^®, taking place on Saturday, September 27 at Riverside Park, 231 McManness Ave. in Findlay. Registration begins at 9:00 am with the Promise Garden Ceremony at 10 and the Walk immediately afterward.

With more than 600 Walks taking place across the U.S. each year, Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest fundraising event and supports the Association’s free educational programs and support groups, Alzheimer’s care services and advancements in treatment and research. 

On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease. Walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each color representing their personal connection to the disease.

“Walk to End Alzheimer’s is a day filled with emotion, inspiration, inclusion and hope,”  said Danica Knapke, Walk manager. “Walks bring people together and reassure them that they’re not alone in their journey. Every step we take as a community takes us closer to a cure and to achieving our mission of a world without Alzheimer’s and dementia. Now, more than ever, it’s crucial that we raise money that will directly benefit Northwest Ohio families.”

Participation is free. Walkers and teams can set fundraising goals and earn incentives including t-shirts, backpacks, water bottles, blankets and more. 

To register and receive the latest updates on this year’s Walks, visit the Walk website.

For the first time, the number of people living with Alzheimer’s disease in the U.S. is more than 7 million. That includes 236,200 in Ohio, according to the 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. Deaths due to Alzheimer’s more than doubled (142%) between 2000 and 2022, while deaths from the leading cause of mortality (heart disease) decreased by 2.1%. 

To learn more about Alzheimer’s or other dementia and to access free local support and resources, visit alz.org/nwohio or call the Northwest Ohio Chapter at 419.537.1999 or the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.

(From the Hancock Park District)

The Hancock Park District (HPD) Hike-It program is a way for folks to go out and explore the trails throughout Hancock County. For the 11th year, participants are encouraged to walk the designated trails at several Hancock County locations.

Registration can be done online at hancockparks.com under the “Park News” section. If this is your first year to participate you may stop into our office to pick up your complimentary walking stick.

Hiking must be done by Friday, December 5 for you to receive your 2025 medallion, which can be placed on your walking stick. Please visit hancockparks.com for complete program details!

The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office has released its monthly report for August.

The sheriff’s office said it closed 2,990 total incidents, including 354 traffic stops, 33 OVI/reckless operation investigations, investigated 74 crashes and executed 53 arrest warrants.

Sheriff Mike Cortez says he’s profoundly grateful for the community’s collaboration and confident in a shared commitment to transparency, accountability, excellence, and professionalism.

The full report is below.

(From the University of Findlay)

The University of Findlay will host Homecoming and Family Weekend 2025 from October 9 to 12, inviting all alumni, friends, families, and community members to be part of the celebration.

“For many generations, a phrase commonly heard around campus has been: ‘Findlay just feels like home’,” President Katherine Fell, Ph.D., said. “It might be the lifelong friendships, the supportive faculty and staff, the dynamic community, the learning environment, or our culture of caring for others that makes UF a special place.”

“And no matter how long you’ve been away – perhaps just a few months or maybe quite a few years – Findlay will always be your home,” she added.

Homecoming and Family Weekend 2025 activities will feature many beloved Findlay traditions, along with some new activities this year.

“Please join us, wearing your favorite Orange and Black apparel, for a variety of exciting, entertaining events throughout the long weekend,” Fell said. “The unity and commitment of our friends, alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and students to UF are what make the Oiler Family strong.”

Additional information and registration for events can be found on the Homecoming and Family Weekend webpage: www.findlay.edu/homecoming.

Among the events open to the public:

THURSDAY, OCT. 9

Pop by the Rock

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. | Spirit Rock in front of Morey Hall The Spirit Rock is ready and waiting for students, alumni, and friends to make their mark. Pop by for a selfie, treats, and bring a marker to leave an Oiler Nation Homecoming message. Cost is free.

College of Education Speaker

7 – 8:30 p.m. | Old Main, Ritz Auditorium Clifton Core MAE ’06, Bellefontaine High School principal, will share his experiences as a social studies teacher, intervention specialist, associate principal, and head principal. Cost is free.

Mazza Museum – A Storm of Horses

6 p.m. | Mazza Museum, Virginia B. Gardner Fine Arts Pavilion

Visiting artist Ruth Sanderson is returning to the Mazza Museum for a free presentation and exhibit

featuring original artwork from her extensive career as an illustrator. She is well-known for her inspiring book, “A Storm of Horses,” about Rosa Bonheur, a famous French painter from the 1800s. Watch for an equine visit to the museum, as well.

Bonfire Bash: Flames, Festivities, and Fun

7:30 – 10 p.m. | DeHaven Soccer Stadium

Kick off Homecoming weekend at the Bonfire Bash with live music from student DJs. Sports teams will be introduced, and free T-shirts will be handed out to the first 250 people. Revive Worship Band

will close out the night with a worship service. Cost is free.

FRIDAY, OCT. 10

Class of 1975 50th Reunion

4 – 7 p.m. | Virginia B. Gardner Fine Arts Pavilion Members of the Class of 1975 and their guests are invited to a special reunion gathering with dinner, Golden Diploma presentation, and campus tour. Fee and registration required.

Oiler Palooza Battle of the Bands

7 – 9 p.m. | Lawn in front of Center for Student Life & College of Business (CBSL) A student, family, and community event with live music in the Battle of the Bands featuring student, faculty, staff, and alumni performers, plus games, inflatables, and food for purchase. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Cost is free.

SATURDAY, OCT. 11

Heart Healthy 5K and 1.5-mile Fun Walk

7 – 8:45 a.m. Check-in | In front of Old Main

9 a.m. shotgun start | Griffith Memorial Arch

American Pharmacists Association Academy of Student Pharmacists is hosting the 10th annual 5K and 1.4-mile fun walk. A portion of event proceeds will be donated to the American Heart Association. Fee and registration required.

Alumni Association Annual Awards Breakfast

9 a.m.| Winebrenner Building, TLB Auditorium

Enjoy breakfast with alumni from all over the nation while congratulating the 2025 Distinguished Alumni, and recipients of the Old Main Award, the Gold Medallion, and the Arch Award. We’ll also honor the Class of 1975 for their Golden Anniversary (50 years). Fee and registration required.

Open House and Gift Shop

10:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Mazza Museum and Conda STEAM Center

The museum and gift shop are open with family-friendly activities.

Oiler Tailgate

Noon – 1:30 p.m. | Donnell Stadium

Enjoy a casual, family-friendly tailgate with picnic food, games, and live music by Tongue n’ Groove before the football game. Cost is free.

Football Game – Findlay Oilers vs. Hillsdale Chargers

2 p.m. | Donnell Stadium

Cheer on the UF football team at the annual Homecoming game. The 2025 Homecoming Court will be announced, along with the 2025 Distinguished Alumni awardees. The Oiler marching band will welcome back UF band alumni to perform with them. Also, the 1995 NAIA National Championship football team will be recognized. Tickets can be purchased at the gate.

Rieck Center Night Hike

8 p.m. | Rieck Center for Habitat Studies

A night hike will take participants through the nature trails at the Rieck Center to look for

owls. Ultraviolet lights will be set up around the nature center to attract moths and

other nocturnal invertebrates.

Oiler Movie Night Under the Stars

8:30 p.m. | DeHaven Soccer Stadium

A special outdoor showing under the stars will feature “High School Musical.” Bring a blanket and favorite snacks.

SUNDAY, OCT. 12

Worship Service

10 a.m. | Winebrenner TLB auditorium Students, alumni, and friends are invited to a special time of worship to celebrate faith heritage and God’s hand of blessing through the years.

Fall Open House

1:30-3 p.m. | Rieck Center for Habitat Studies

After an informative program, attendees are welcome to hike the property and walk along the story

trail. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.

ATHLETIC EVENTS

Women’s soccer vs. Northwood, 1 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 9, DeHaven Soccer Stadium

UF Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, 6:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 10, Winebrenner TLB Auditorium, advance reservations required

Women’s lacrosse alumni game, 10 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 11, Russ & Peg Armstrong Sports Complex

Swimming & diving alumni meet, 11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 11, Sink Natatorium

Men’s soccer vs. Northwood, 1 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 11, DeHaven Soccer Stadium

Football vs. Hillsdale College, 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 11, Donnell Stadium

THROUGHOUT THE WEEKEND

Star Gazing at the Newhard Planetarium

Friday: 5 & 6 p.m.; Saturday: 10, 10:45, 11:30 a.m.

Brewer Science Center

Stop by the planetarium to discover what to look for in a fall-winter evening sky. Take a quick fly through the universe and experience our awesome solar system in this exciting and informative 45 minute experience. No admission fee.

To learn more about specific events and speakers, or to register to attend any of the events, visit the Homecoming webpage. Homecoming events and information are also available on the Oiler Mobile App, which is free to download in the App Store and Play Store.