(From the Hancock County Naturalists)

The Hancock County Naturalists will host speaker Dave McPheron, horticulturist and retired owner of Star Farms Native Plants, at their February 13th meeting. His program, “It’s for the Birds, Gardening with Native Plants to Attract Birds”, will explore what a native plant is and how the landscape that includes these plants can bring more birds to the local environment. The meeting is at 7 p.m. at Oak Woods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwood Avenue, and is open to the public. This meeting will also feature a seed swap; attendees are encouraged to bring seeds to trade.

A graduate of The Ohio State University with a degree in horticulture, McPheron has been active in the horticulture industry for over 47 years. His experience includes owning a design/install landscape company and garden center specializing in perennials, herbs, and water gardens, and he has spent the last few years growing Ohio native plants as the owner of Star Farms Native Plants in Kenton, Ohio. After recently retiring and closing his business, he has turned his focus to cultivating Ohio native plants and promoting these vital species. He is an Emeritus Ohio State Master Gardener Volunteer in Hardin County and served as the Volunteer Coordinator.

The Hancock County Naturalists, a membership organization, was established to further the study of the fauna and flora of Hancock County and the surrounding area and to participate in selected conservation and educational projects. Membership and events are open to those aged 15 and older. Annual membership fees are $15 per adult, $20 per couple, and $10 for youth.

For more information, contact Jane Riker at 419-306-3697 or emaggin117@aol.com. The group’s website is hancockcountynaturalists.org.

(From Marathon Petroleum Corporation)

Marathon Petroleum Corp. (NYSE: MPC) today reported net income attributable to MPC of $371 million, or $1.15 per diluted share, for the fourth quarter of 2024, compared with net income attributable to MPC of $1.5 billion, or $3.84 per diluted share, for the fourth quarter of 2023.

Adjusted net income was $249 million, or $0.77 per diluted share, for the fourth quarter of 2024. This compares to adjusted net income of $1.5 billion, or $3.98 per diluted share, for the fourth quarter of 2023. Adjustments are shown in the accompanying release tables.

The fourth quarter of 2024 adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (adjusted EBITDA) was $2.1 billion, compared with $3.6 billion for the fourth quarter of 2023. Adjustments are shown in the accompanying release tables.

For the full year 2024, net income attributable to MPC was $3.4 billion, or $10.08 per diluted share, compared with net income attributable to MPC of $9.7 billion, or $23.63 per diluted share for the full year 2023. Adjusted net income was $3.3 billion, or $9.51 per diluted share for the full year 2024. This compares to adjusted net income of $9.7 billion, or $23.63 per diluted share for the full year 2023. Adjustments are shown in the accompanying release tables.

“In 2024, we generated net cash from operations of $8.7 billion, which enabled peer-leading capital return to shareholders of $10.2 billion,” said President and Chief Executive Officer Maryann Mannen. “Our strong cash flow generation was driven by our commitments to peer-leading operational excellence, commercial performance, and profitability per barrel in each of the regions in which we operate. Execution of our Midstream strategy delivered segment adjusted EBITDA growth of 6%. We expect distributions from MPLX in 2025 will cover MPC’s dividends and standalone capital outlook, further supporting our commitment to peer-leading capital return.”

(From Liberty-Benton Local Schools)

Congratulations to Liberty-Benton FFA members Mary Holley and Erica Patterson on earning the prestigious American FFA Degree—the highest honor in the National FFA Organization!

Only 529 Ohio FFA members achieved this award, recognizing their dedication, leadership, and commitment to agriculture.

(From the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office)

After receiving a report of an alleged sexual assault involving a juvenile at the residence located at 15960 Water Street, Flat Rock, Ohio 44828, on Monday, February 03, 2025, the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office, along with several other Law Enforcement Agencies executed multiple search warrants to attempt to retrieve evidence related to the initial complaint. Detectives from the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office received information from Special Agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cleveland Field Office, Toledo Resident Agency, which started the investigation into the allegation.

Upon further investigation and obtaining additional information, a search warrant and arrest warrant were obtained for the owner of the Flat Rock residence. The search warrant signed by Judge Damon Alt of the Seneca County Common Pleas Court led to the confiscation of additional evidence believed to be related to the sexual assault investigation. Additional search warrants were also obtained for several electronic devices related to the investigation.

Additional Special Agents and Task Force Officers from the FBI Cleveland Field Office-Toledo Resident Agency, the Ottawa County Crime Task Force, the Seneca County Drug Task Force – METRICH Enforcement Unit, Ottawa County Crime Task Force Canine Unit, and the multi-juris Seneca County Special Response Team were all utilized to execute the search warrant on the residence safely and effectively.

Arrested was William R. Stevens, 46 YOA, for Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor, a Felony of the Third degree. He is presently being held at the Seneca County Jail upon further prosecution.

“Based on all the facts and circumstances of this entire investigation, I truly believe that Seneca County is safer this evening because this individual is off our streets. The diligent work and collaboration between numerous Federal and State Law Enforcement Agencies was instrumental to the success of this investigation!”

Sheriff Fredrick W. Stevens.

(From Raise The Bar Hancock County)

Whether employees are on the frontline, managing a team, working in an office, or running a business, their experience at work matters. Raise the Bar Hancock County and the Hancock County Business Advisory Council are calling on local employees at all levels and in all industries to participate in the Professional Insights Poll, a quick survey designed to identify priority skills and training.

The poll is open until February 27, 2025, and takes less than eight minutes to complete. Responses will directly shape local education and training programs, ensuring the next generation is ready to step into careers with the right skills — whether in manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, IT, retail, finance, or any other field.

What We’re Asking About:

• The tools, equipment, and technology used in an employee’s job
• The technical skills and certifications that matter to an industry

No matter the workplace role—whether employee’s are just starting out, supervising a team, or leading a company—their perspective is valuable. We need input from all generations, backgrounds, and experience levels.

How to Participate

Taking the survey is easy! Complete the survey by clicking on the photo or scanning the QR code at www.raisethebarhancock.org/insightpoll.

Raise the Bar and local education leaders will use the results to improve career readiness programs, shape curriculum, and support businesses with stronger job candidates.

About Raise the Bar Hancock County

Raise the Bar Hancock County builds partnerships between schools, employers, and community leaders to ensure a strong, skilled workforce. Through initiatives like career exposure programs, curriculum development, and employer engagement, Raise the Bar is shaping the future of work in Hancock County.

About Hancock County Business Advisory Council

Led by Raise the Bar and the Hancock County ESC, the Hancock County Business Advisory Council (BAC) assists in building a viable and productive relationship between the schools and employers in Hancock County through increased awareness, cooperation, and involvement. Operating under the requirements of the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, the Hancock County BAC’s members include representatives from every Hancock County local school district and area employers. The BAC meets quarterly to streamline workforce development initiatives for students in grades K-12.

(From the Ohio Department of Transportation)

Among our 2024 accomplishments: A new roundabout interchange opened in Hancock County, a unique pavement rehabilitation project began in Defiance and Paulding counties, and major work was completed on a diverging diamond interchange in Findlay.

While 2025 is still new, we’re touting these and other great projects from the past year: https://www.transportation.ohio.gov/…/many-important…

(From Blanchard Valley Health System)

Bridge Hospice Bereavement Services, a division of Blanchard Valley Health System, will host “Sew Many Memories,” a hands-on grief support program, this spring.

Parting with clothing that belonged to a deceased loved one can often be an emotional decision to make. This program, which is open to any adult or family who has recently experienced the death of a loved one, will offer participants the opportunity to turn their loved one’s clothing into a heartfelt keepsake. No sewing experience is necessary and volunteers will be on hand to help.

This year’s participants have the choice of creating a pillow or a bear.

The first session will take place from 4 p.m.-6 p.m. on Thursday, March 27, at Birchaven Village Hub, 15100 Birchaven Lane, Findlay. This session will be dedicated to planning the item to create. Participants will examine sample projects and choose the item they will create, as well as learning what items best suit their creative needs.

The second session will take place from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, at the same location. Participants will sew their items at this second session. Volunteers will work with them to turn their loved ones’ clothing into beautiful keepsakes to be treasured for generations.

Participants must attend both sessions but are able to leave when their item is completed on April 5.

Pre-registration is required by Friday, March 21. To register or to learn more, please contact Bridge Bereavement Services by calling 419.423.5351 or emailing tlang@bvhealthsystem.org.

(From the Ohio State Highway Patrol)

The Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds all motorists to do their part in keeping roadway workers safe by moving over a lane and slowing down when you see an emergency vehicle on the side of the road.

Over the last four years, 55 Patrol cruisers were involved in crashes while stopped on the side of the road due to drivers failing to move over and slow down. These crashes resulted in two deaths and 29 injuries to the public, as well as 16 injured troopers. Alcohol and/or drugs were a factor in 27% of “move over” crashes. Most of these types of crashes took place on interstates, unlit roadways and surfaces covered in snow, ice or slush.

 “These crashes are avoidable when drivers pay attention, slow down, and move over,” said Governor Mike DeWine.

Ohio’s Move Over Law requires all drivers to move over to an adjacent lane when approaching any vehicle with flashing or rotating lights parked on the roadside. If moving over is not possible due to traffic, weather conditions or a second lane not being available, motorists should slow down and proceed with caution.

“When you move over, you’re helping ensure the safety of everyone who works on or travels our roadways,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “It’s not just the law – it’s a simple act that can save lives.”

When driving in work zones, moving over and slowing down is also important. You can find out more information on Ohio’s work zones, and what troopers do to make them safer, by visiting http://www.workzonedashboard.ohio.gov.

(From the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation)

The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation has announced the schedule for its ‘Fun for All’ series of free community events for February.

The events scheduled so far are listed below and more will be added as they become available.

15 – Game-A-Pa-Looza
12 – 4 p.m.
Location & Organization: 50 North
Registration is required: 50 North

18 – Art Class – Draw Your Partner, Kid or Friend
5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Location & Organization: Awakening Minds Art
Space is limited, and registration is required: Community Programs — Awakening Minds Art

“We’ve heard time and time again that finding affordable, family-friendly activities is a challenge in Hancock County. The Community Foundation is proud to provide Fun for All to help bridge the gap,” said Community Foundation President and CEO Brian Treece.

Brian says the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation is thankful to its community partners for making the events possible.

(ONN) – Ohio does not require adults to take driver’s education classes.

The governor wants that to change.

As Ohio law stands now, adults are exempt from having to take driver’s ed to get their license.

In a statement, Governor DeWine called that ridiculous.

The US Department of Transportation shows that 82 percent of accidents are from adults over 18.

The governor believes mandatory training will solve the problem.

At issue is the cost of the classes which could be as high as $600.