(From Bowling Green State University)

At only 20 years old, McKenna Clark is now a Bowling Green State University graduate, earning a bachelor’s degree in applied health science with a pre-physical therapy track.

The Forest, Ohio, native credits her fast-tracked December 2024 graduation to the unmatched support she received in the Thompson Working Families Scholarship Program.

“Before I applied, my mom said I should go on campus, take a look, and see the overall vibe because you can’t choose unless you’ve been there,” Clark said. “When we went on the visit and stopped in with the Thompsons, I just knew this was going to be perfect for me.”

The Thompson scholarship is need-based but is far different from the standard scholarship program.

In addition to maintaining a 3.0 grade-point average, Thompson scholars are asked to make a difference in their communities through service and to be active members of the program, which allows them to benefit from and add to a robust support system.

The program includes one-on-one meetings with a scholarship advisor whose mission is to help Thompson Scholars succeed everywhere in their lives as they navigate college and beyond.

Clark said her meetings with her Thompson Scholarship advisor, Ashleigh Diefenbach, were instrumental in helping her find her way at BGSU.

“It wasn’t just an academic advisor talking about what classes you need to take,” Clark said. “It was more like having a life advisor – you could talk about literally everything. We talked a lot about how I could find myself in the community and at school and explore ways to put myself out there.

“It honestly felt like a second family, and they would be there for me no matter what.”

Clark also received a significant boost from College Credit Plus, which allowed her to transfer credits directly to BGSU and fast-track her undergraduate studies.

By the time she arrived at BGSU, she was already set to take coursework in her major, allowing her to quickly connect with expert faculty and take classes designed to improve her skills within her field.

“Skills practiced in labs help students like McKenna gain confidence in their abilities to interact with others from a variety of backgrounds and help people understand their bodies and what they can do to improve their health,” said Dr. Todd Keylock, an associate professor of exercise science at BGSU.

“Pre-PT students are often highly motivated to learn all they can to be able to make patient’s lives better, to become more mobile, and recover from injuries.”

Clark said practicing in the field confirmed that she was on the right path.

Helping physical therapy patients regain autonomy brought victories that made the work worth the effort, she said.

“Watching my residents get back to doing what they love to do, transition independently and get back to their previous life was really inspiring to me,” she said. “I remember feeling so proud of them because I saw how hard they worked.”

As a BGSU alumna, Clark said her comprehensive experience at the University gave her the knowledge to confidently enter physical therapy school and pursue a fulfilling profession.

“It really cemented for me that this is what I wanted to do,” Clark said. “And now I know I’m capable of doing it.”

(above pic courtesy of BGSU)

(From the Ohio State Highway Patrol)

According to provisional statistics, two people were killed in two fatal crashes on Ohio roadways this Christmas holiday. Of the two people killed, one was not wearing a safety belt. The two-day Christmas reporting period began Tuesday, December 23 at midnight and ran through 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, December 25.

During the reporting period, troopers arrested 44 people for operating a vehicle while impaired and 11 for illegal drugs. Troopers also issued citations for 84 safety belt and 31 distracted driving violations. Additionally, troopers assisted 434 motorists on Ohio roadways.

During last year’s four-day Christmas holiday reporting period, from December 22 to 25, there were 12 people killed in motor vehicle crashes on Ohio roads.

The public is encouraged to continue using #677 to report dangerous or impaired drivers, as well as drug activity. A statistical analysis of the Patrol’s enforcement activity and crash data over the holiday is available here.

(From The United Way of Hancock County)

Are you a numbers person who likes giving back to your community?

United Way of Hancock County is rallying volunteers as it prepares to once again facilitate free tax preparation services for qualifying community members.

United Way’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides free income tax preparation to qualifying individuals who live or work in Hancock County. Volunteers are needed to greet clients as they arrive for their appointments and to prepare and file taxes electronically through the IRS.

No prior tax experience is needed. Training materials are provided free of cost, and all volunteers receive in-person training and certification. Ongoing support is provided by experienced team members.

Client appointments will be offered at 50 North and the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library from February through April. Volunteers may commit based on their availability.

Beginning Jan. 22, community members may call the VITA direct phone line to schedule their appointment. More details, including that phone number, will be released in January.

For more information or to sign up as a VITA volunteer, contact United Way of Hancock County Information Manager Bridgit Phillips at 419-423-1432 or accounting@uwhancock.org.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol will be working to keep the roadways safe over the New Year’s holiday and is asking for your help in doing so.

The Highway Patrol says troopers will be focused on removing impaired drivers from the roadways and is encouraging everyone to make a plan for a sober ride home from their New Year’s celebrations. 

The Highway Patrol says you need to select a designated driver before the festivities commence, or you could also use a ride-sharing service or public transit.

The easiest way to stay safe is to simply abstain from drinking.

If you see an impaired or aggressive driver, the Highway Patrol encourages you to report them by safely dialing #677 or 911.  

(From the Ohio Department of Natural Resources)

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) invites you to kick off 2025 with adventure and inspiration through its annual First Day Hikes program. Start the New Year outdoors with fresh air, scenic trails, and a renewed focus on health and wellness.

“Beginning the year with a First Day Hike is more than just a fitness activity; it’s about reconnecting with nature and making lasting memories with family and friends,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “With trails across our state parks offering something for everyone, it’s the perfect way to celebrate Ohio’s natural beauty.”

Thirteen hikes are planned at Ohio state parks, offering experiences for every type of hiker. Choose from tranquil lakefront paths to invigorating wooded trails, with all 13 locations featuring naturalist-led tours that reveal the unique natural and cultural stories behind Ohio’s landscapes.

Each First Day Hike is family-friendly, ensuring everyone from seasoned adventurers to first-time hikers can find a trail to suit their pace and preferences. Participants will also receive a special sticker commemorating the Winter Hike program, while supplies last.

Ohio’s First Day Hikes are part of the nationwide First Day Hikes in America’s State Parks program, which includes more than 1,000 hikes across all 50 states. This initiative, which began more than 30 years ago, has inspired millions to explore the outdoors every New Year’s Day.

ODNR encourages hikers to dress in layers, cover exposed areas like heads, necks, and hands, and bring water and snacks for the trail. Inform someone of your plans before heading out, and check the ODNR website for additional winter trail safety tips and details on individual hikes.

Don’t miss the chance to start 2025 on the right foot—literally! Gather your family and friends, lace up your hiking boots, and join ODNR in celebrating the beauty of Ohio’s natural spaces this New Year’s Day.

The ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft provides exceptional outdoor recreation and boating opportunities by balancing outstanding customer service, education, and conservation of Ohio’s 76 state parks and waterways.

In 2024, join ODNR as we celebrate 75 years of protecting Ohio’s natural resources and providing outstanding and award-winning recreational opportunities. 

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.

(From the University of Findlay)

Six University of Findlay students are the 2024-25 recipients of more than $22,000 in Town & Campus scholarships.

Findlay Town & Campus is one of the oldest organizations at UF, promoting student success and goodwill among campus and community members.

“These scholarships are annually awarded to worthy students who are in good academic standing and demonstrate volunteerism and philanthropy on campus or in the community,” explained Nondace Campbell, president of Town & Campus.

“We are proud to support them as they are pursuing their educational dreams,” said Campbell, a UF emerita professor who taught English and literature, retiring in 2009.

This year’s scholarship recipients are: Hayley Waltz of Rawson, doctor of occupational therapy major; Chloe Eppley of Tiffin, occupational therapy major; Paige Lucic of Chardon, exercise science major/pre-physical therapy program; Grace Scott of Pinckney, Michigan, western equestrian studies and farm business management major; Jacob Holmes of Cincinnati, doctor of pharmacy program; and Mitchell Hanosh of Adrian, Michigan, business administration major with emphasis in management and finance.

Town & Campus started in 1960, when O.J. Wilson, president of then-Findlay College, organized a women’s auxiliary to serve as a liaison between the college and community.

The group hosted teas and offered bridge lessons for female students. Within a year, the women began raising money to support Findlay students with scholarships and emergency loans.

Today, 64 years later, Findlay Town & Campus enjoys a long history of supporting a variety of UF programs and scholarships. The organization is no longer just for women, but open to all. In 2009, they endowed a scholarship in honor of the organization’s 50th anniversary.

The group meets monthly on campus and new members are welcome. Annual dues are $20, and more information is available at www.findlay.edu/townandcampus or by calling Tiffany Koenig at 419-434-5560.

(WTOL-11) – Wood County, which was victimized by a cyber security breach, has been forced to pay ransom.

County officials say they have paid out a $1.5 million ransom to free the county from a ransomware computer attack.

The county says it has resolved the issue and is working to restore systems securely.

County commissioners said they came to the decision to pay the ransom after consulting with cybersecurity experts.

Many systems are now back online and additional security measures are in place.

Commissioners say paying the ransom was a difficult choice but thanks to reserve funds, the payment will not impact the 2025 budget.

(From the City of Findlay)

The City of Findlay is pleased to announce the appointment of Amy Hayslett as its new Human Resources Director. Amy brings a wealth of knowledge, a strong legal background, and hands-on experience with the City to her new role.

A Findlay resident, Amy has served the City in various capacities, including her recent role within the Human Resources Department, where she supported the prior Director with implementation of the Employee Retention Group, facilitated leadership development programs, and has recently been working with the Administration to develop the 2025 Strategic Plan to enhance workforce development and employee recruitment efforts. Amy’s leadership has also been instrumental in advancing policies that improve the City’s workplace environment and employee relations.

Amy holds a Juris Doctor degree from Ohio Northern University Pettit College of Law and a Bachelor of Science in Journalism with a focus in Public Relations from Ohio University. Her combined expertise in law and human resources has allowed her to analyze employment policies, ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, and enhance risk mitigation strategies.

Mayor Christina Muryn shared her enthusiasm for Amy’s appointment, stating, “Amy’s dedication to the City of Findlay, her unique qualifications, and her innovative vision for the future make her the ideal choice for this role. We look forward to her leadership building upon Don Essex’s work in strengthening the City’s workforce and fostering a culture of excellence.”

Amy expressed her excitement for the new role, saying, “I am honored to serve as the Human Resources Director for the City of Findlay. My goal is to make Findlay an Employer of Choice by focusing on workforce development, innovative recruitment strategies, and creating an environment where employees feel valued and empowered.”

The City of Findlay welcomes Amy Hayslett as she begins her new role and looks forward to the positive impact her leadership will bring to the organization and the community.

Findlay firefighters helped brighten the holidays for several local kids and their families.

The Findlay Fire Department again this year participated in the Shop With a Firefighter program, in conjunction with Findlay Hope House and Walmart.

Firefighters took the youngsters Christmas shopping at the Walmart on Tiffin Avenue which donated a $3,000 grant for the event.

The kids bought a gift for each member of their family and also spent some money on themselves.

Families also received a gift card to purchase everything they would need for a nice Christmas dinner.

Millstream Area Credit Union volunteers then wrapped up the gifts for the families.

Findlay firefighter Travis Bohn told WFIN he looks forward to the event every year.