The United Way of Hancock County says it’s already busy scheduling appointments for its free income tax preparation service, called VITA.

“The lines just opened today, so please try back if you get a busy signal!” the United Way said on Facebook on Monday.

This IRS program is open to people who live or work in Hancock County and whose combined household income is $64,000 or less.

Call 567-250-1955 to set your appointment.

Callers will be asked a series of questions and will be informed of the items they must bring to their tax preparation appointment.

The appointments will begin on February 5th and continue into April, based on demand.

Click here for more information.

(From City of Findlay)

Findlay area non-profits will receive a $10,000 DollarWise Economic Mobility Grant. The grant is administered by the U.S. Conference of Mayors in partnership with Bank of America and is aimed to encourage or promote innovation in advancing economic mobility.

Grant categories include removing barriers that prevent economic advancement, creating economic opportunity, and building assets to create intergenerational wealth. They received a grant for removing barriers that prevent economic opportunity. The funds will be used to allow individuals with convictions to petition for a Certificate of Qualification for Employment (CQE). A CQE is a “certificate granted by the Common Pleas Court that removes obstacles to employment for individuals with a prior criminal conviction.”

The program involves collaboration from local nonprofits Raise the Bar Hancock County (a workforce development agency changing how people along the cradle-to-career continuum learn about and prepare for careers in Findlay), the Habitat for Humanity Financial Opportunity Center (engages and educates individuals and families to build a better future through selfsufficiency), and Legal Aid of Western Ohio (helps individuals eliminate barriers to employment and increase opportunities for families living in poverty).

Together, the three entities will work to educate employers on the purpose and benefits of CQEs, assist eligible individuals with completing CQE paperwork, and strive to help CQE individuals pursue the training and job readiness assistance they need to be employed in quality, indemand occupations in Findlay/Hancock County.

The three partners will create a standardized presentation that will be delivered to nonprofit agency representatives and community mentors. Individuals eligible to petition will then receive one-on-one assistance with filing to the Hancock County Court of Common Pleas.

Grant-Funded activities will involve raising community awareness that CQEs are an option for employment. Funds will be spent on (1) contracting Legal Aid to verify accuracy of produced materials and presenting to nonprofits and individuals; (2) covering the filing fee for petitioners; and (3) creating and disseminating all marketing and outreach materials.

“Not one CQE petition has been filed in Hancock County in 11 years,” says Mayor Christina Muryn. “These grant dollars will allow our local non-profits to assist individuals seeking to work and contribute to our local economy by breaking down the barriers that are preventing them from doing so. Thank you to the U.S. Conference of Mayors and Bank of America for supporting this cause and selecting our program.”

“Through these monies, our community will be able to more effectively support residents who face barriers to employment,” says Tricia Valasek, Executive Director of Raise the Bar. “Helping individuals overcome convictions and get back on their feet with strong-paying jobs is a win-win-win for the job seeker, employers, and our community.”

(From Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce)

Mark your calendars for Chocolate Walk 2024 on February 8, from Noon – 7:00 PM.

This year, we’ve got 23 amazing stops for you to indulge your sweet tooth!

Only 200 tickets will be sold, so grab yours before they’re gone! Tickets are only $10.00 each and can be purchased at the following participating businesses:

BLACK LAB TRADING CO.

BOUTIQUE 415-POLISHED

ROOTS BY STRATTONS

SHIRLEY’S GOURMET POPCORN CO.

This year, the Chocolate Walk will kick off at Family Hardware, 111 Cherry St. Pick up your official Chocolate Walk 2024 bag, generously donated by PromoHits, LTD., and grab a map for all the scrumptious stops along the way.

Get ready for a chocolate-filled day of fun and treats! Don’t miss out on this delicious experience – see you there!

(From the Tiffin Police Department)

On January 18, 2024 a shoplifting offense occurred at Tiffin’s Walmart store, 2801 W. State Route 18, Tiffin, OH. Mathew Jay Morris (DOB: 5/2/1991) of Medina, OH was stopped by Walmart Asset Protection employees after they witnessed him concealing merchandise on his person and exiting the store without paying for said merchandise.

When confronted, Mathew produced a can of pepper spray / mace and pointed it at the Asset Protection employees, threatening to spray them. Mathew fled the store with the stolen merchandise but was quickly stopped by Tiffin Police Department Officers in the area of Tiffin Mercy Hospital.

Mathew was taken into custody on one count of Robbery (2911.02(A)(2) of the Ohio Revised Code), a felony of the second degree, and the warrants Mathew had for his arrest.

He has been incarcerated at the Seneca County Jail pending his initial appearance in court. Recovered from the scene were the merchandise items and the can of pepper spray / mace.

Findlay and Hancock County are included in a Winter Weather Advisory issued by the National Weather Service.

The Winter Weather Advisory will be in effect from midnight tonight until noon on Tuesday.

Freezing rain is expected. Total ice accumulations of one tenth to two tenths of an inch.

Precipitation is expected to transition to all rain by early Tuesday afternoon.

Slow down and use caution while traveling. Prepare for possible power outages.

Get the latest forecast, weather alerts and road alerts by clicking here, and school delays and closings by clicking here.

The Findlay Police Department recently gave Findlay City Council an update on how the police department’s body camera program is going.

The police department went live with its body worn cameras (BWC) on August 14^th, 2023.

The police department said, that aside from a few minor learning curves, it has been a very successful program so far.

The following are some statistics as of December 15th, 2023:

• 65 Officers, Detectives, Sergeants, or Lieutenants have used the BWC system to submit evidence.
• 12,139 individual BWC videos uploaded to evidence.com by members of the Findlay Police Department.
• 5,274 photos and/or videos uploaded to evidence.com using Axon Capture.
• Over 500 photos and/or videos uploaded to evidence.com through 195 uses of Axon Community Request.
• 5.26 terabytes (TB) of storage has been used so far on evidence.com.
• 28 videos have been shared with partner agencies (County Prosecutor, Law Director, CSB) through 6 records requests.
• 128 BWC videos shared with individuals through 42 different public records requests.
• Over 1,800 photos have been shared with partner agencies and records requests.
• City of Findlay Police Department Sergeants have reviewed 75 videos through Axon Performance Reviews (0.006% of all videos submitted).

Since going live, the police department has had issues with two of the body worn cameras.

The Axon support provided the return authorization within minutes of the request and the replacement body worn cameras arrived within three days.

The Signal Sidearm devices have been purchased and installed that will automatically activate any device within 35 feet whenever an Officer’s weapon is removed from the holster.

Police Chief James Mathias says the use of body cameras is increasing transparency and accountability while enhancing officer safety.

(From the Ohio Governor’s Office)

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has officially declared 2024 as the Year of Ohio State Parks. This declaration marks the 75th anniversary of Ohio State Parks and underscores the state’s unwavering commitment to preserving its natural wonders and expanding outdoor adventures.

“Ohio’s state parks, where admission is always free, give visitors an opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation of Ohio’s natural heritage,” said Governor DeWine. “The Year of Ohio State Parks is the perfect time to visit one or more of Ohio’s 75 state parks, experience our state’s natural beauty, and actively participate in the preservation of these treasured lands.”

Ohio’s state parks and waterways are renowned for their breathtaking landscapes and diverse recreational opportunities. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Parks and Watercraft plays a pivotal role in safeguarding these resources, ensuring that Ohioans can continue to enjoy the many benefits of spending quality time in nature.

“We are excited to celebrate what we believe to be the best state park system in the country,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “We have exceptional employees who show a passion for our parks day in and day out, making sure everyone is able to make memories in these picturesque places.”

Park staff serve as stewards and caretakers of the parks, preserving the state’s natural and cultural history. The Year of Ohio State Parks is an historic celebration, emphasizing the outstanding opportunities statewide to honor and appreciate some of the world’s most iconic outdoor destinations.

“We are proud of our parks, and everything they have to offer to Ohioans and those who travel across state lines,” Division of Parks and Watercraft Chief Glen Cobb said. “For 75 years we’ve welcomed visitors, and we encourage them now to join in this statewide celebration.”

Governor DeWine’s proclamation highlights the pivotal role state parks have played to expand access to the outdoors for people of all backgrounds. Through a variety of safe and equitable outdoor activities and events, state parks foster stronger social ties, celebrate Ohio’s rich culture, and showcase the state’s remarkable ecosystem.

Ohio started designating properties as official state parks in 1949 when lawmakers created the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. ODNR is also celebrating a department-wide 75th anniversary throughout 2024 by highlighting the achievements of all 12 divisions, including the Division of Parks and Watercraft.

For more information and to stay updated on the 75^th anniversary celebration events and activities as well as all the programming the state parks have to offer, visit the Ohio State Park website.

(From Destination Seneca County)

Destination Seneca County has announced their major events planned for the Total Solar Eclipse Weekend that will take place starting Friday, April 5, 2024.

The weekend will consist of a Solar Eclipse of the Heart Bingo contest, Out of the Dark Glow 5K & Fun Run sponsored by Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital, and Elope at the Eclipse, along with other community activities.

For more information pertaining to the 2024 Solar Eclipse in Seneca County visit www.SenecaCountySolarEclipse.com.

The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents about what each weather advisory level means.

A Level 1 Weather Alert means roadways are hazardous, drive with extreme caution.

A Level 2 Weather Advisory means roadways are extremely hazardous with blowing and drifting snow and/or flooding. Only those who feel it is necessary to travel should be on the roadways.

A Level 3 Weather Emergency means most roadways are closed and extremely hazardous. Employees should comply with workplace policies or contact their employer. Violators may be cited.

Hancock County was placed on a Level 1 Weather Alert early Friday morning and it was later lifted. 

The sheriff’s office says, when a level is issued, you should tune in to your local media for updates or scan the QR code that is displayed below, and it will take you to the sheriff’s office website with links that you can select for local news and school closings or delays.

The sheriff’s office asks people to not call their office for weather or level updates during severe weather as their dispatchers will be very busy handling calls.

The sheriff’s office says, if you must travel, have emergency supplies in your vehicle and keep all electronic devices charged up.  

Remember, you can always get the latest forecast and advisory levels by clicking here, and school closing and cancellations by clicking here.

(From the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office)

The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office has recently been made aware of a warrant scam going on in our county.

A person contacts the victim and informs them of an active arrest warrant through the sheriff’s office.

The victim is then directed to go to a local store (Dollar Store, Rite Aid, etc.) and put money on a gift card barcode that is provided by the scammer.

Please be aware that the sheriff’s office WILL NOT contact you by phone and inform you of an arrest warrant.

The sheriff’s office also WILL NOT request money to be paid over the phone. This is a scam. Stay vigilant!