(From the University of Findlay)

The University of Findlay is launching the Watterson Center for Ethical Leadership this fall and has appointed Sarah Fedirka, Ph.D., as director.

The Watterson Center for Ethical Leadership is named for Billy Watterson and his wife, Brenda, who made a $6 million gift to launch the center. He is a 1996 UF graduate and Board of Trustees member.

Trustees, faculty, and administrators gathered October 16 with Findlay-Hancock County corporate and community leaders for an unveiling of the first of the center’s offerings, the Watterson Scholars program.

Welcoming students from all majors, the Watterson Scholars is a four-year academic program with components such as vocational exploration, ethical leadership development, and civic advocacy. Each of the four years is themed to the center’s virtues of courage, humility, integrity, and compassion. The program will launch in fall 2026.

“This is a program for students who have a heart for community engagement,” Fedirka said. “It is designed to transform their lives, preparing them to be ethical leaders in their communities after graduation.”

The program curriculum includes service projects, undergraduate research, and travel to the Freedom Center in Cincinnati, the Ohio state capitol, and New York City. A Hancock Collegiate Leadership Academy, offered in conjunction with the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, is being developed for Watterson Scholars.

Sarah Foltz ’14, community engagement director of The Alliance, coordinates the Hancock Leadership Academies and is charged with the new initiative.

“We are excited to provide University of Findlay students with additional learning beyond campus to see how our community works, to explore a variety of vocations, and connect with people who are passionate about helping them grow,” she said.

Through these transformative learning experiences, UF President Katherine Fell, Ph.D., anticipates that the initial class of students will be fully immersed in the Watterson Center’s mission: “to inspire ethical leaders who will impact their world.”

“It has been a fitting and bold step for the University to establish the Watterson Center for Ethical Leadership to provide our students and the broader community a place to develop ethical awareness, leadership skills, vocational discernment, and a sense of service to others,” she said.

Since its founding by the Churches of God General Conference and the City of Findlay in 1882, the University has been committed to engagement with the Hancock County community.

“Our campus community cares about the issues, conditions, and problems that affect Findlay-Hancock county,” said Christine Denecker, Ph.D., interim vice president of academic affairs. “Through the Watterson Scholars program, we will lend our minds and hands in addressing those problems.”

Dr. William Kose, M.D., J.D., a member of the UF Board of Trustees, described the Watterson Scholars as “a fresh approach to community building” and “a game changer.”

“Community building occurs when we put others before ourselves,” he said, encouraging corporate and community leaders to support the program “and bring this vision of ethical leadership and community collaboration to life.”

Findlay Mayor Christina Muryn ’14 agreed, emphasizing the importance of preparing students to be ethical leaders because “people are watching how we influence change, culture, businesses, and other people.”

“I know we will be able to change our community, our classrooms, and the world for the better. Each of us has the ability to be the change we want to see in the world,” the mayor explained. “The type of change we are able to make is priceless.”

Curriculum development for Watterson Scholars is currently taking place. The scholars program is partially supported by a $75,000 NetVUE Vocation Across the Academy grant through the Council of Independent Colleges.

For more information on the Watterson Scholars program, visit findlay.edu/watterson-scholars. Individuals and businesses interested in sponsoring a cohort of Watterson Scholars may visit give.findlay.edu.

(ONN) – The landscape of high school sports in Ohio is changing, and it has to do with allowing high school athletes to earn money off their name, image, and likeness.

The looming vote on name, image and likeness deals by schools has the Ohio High School Athletic Association partnering with a national company.

OHSAA is partnering with ‘Influential Athlete’, a company that trains schools and athletes on NIL rules.

The partnership will give school leaders webinars, guidance, and resources.

Schools that are part of OHSAA will vote on new NIL language within the next 45 days.

The City of Findlay is letting residents know that the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting will take place on Wednesday, November 5th due to Tuesday, November 4^th being Election Day.

Findlay City Council meetings are typically held on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers located on the first floor of the Municipal Building. 

(From the Hancock Historical Museum)

The Hancock Historical Museum Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Abigail Inbody as the organization’s new Executive Director.

Inbody brings a diverse set of skills, dedication, and a fresh perspective to her new role. Since joining the museum in February 2025 as Marketing & Community Relations Coordinator, Inbody has demonstrated exceptional leadership, launching innovative outreach initiatives designed to engage younger audiences and strengthen the museum’s connection with the community.

“As I step into this role, I am filled with deep gratitude and excitement for the opportunities ahead,” Inbody shared. “The Hancock Historical Museum is uniquely positioned to serve as a vibrant cultural hub for history, education, and community connection. My vision is to expand our reach in sustainable ways, ensuring our exhibits and programs remain innovative and accessible for all.”

A native of Hancock County, Inbody’s professional career has been defined by her commitment to community service. She currently serves as the Marketing Chair for Findlay Young Professionals through the Findlay Hancock County Chamber of Commerce and is an active member of the group’s events committee. Inbody is also a member of the current Hancock Leadership class. Her previous experience includes overseeing the transitional shelter for Hope House for the Homeless, where she served as Shelter Facility Manager and Volunteer Coordinator, as well as starting her own wedding and event planning business in 2019.

“Preserving our shared history and telling the stories that might otherwise be forgotten is a responsibility I hold close to my heart,” Inbody continued. “I am honored to work alongside our dedicated staff, volunteers, and generous supporters to inspire future generations through this treasured community resource.”

The Hancock Historical Museum Board of Trustees is confident that Inbody’s enthusiasm, expertise, and vision will guide the museum into an exciting new chapter.

(From the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts)

MCPA Amped is your go-to for high energy concerts that keep things casual and fun. These shows are announced throughout the year and often feature artists that get the crowd moving.

You might find yourself dancing, singing along, or just soaking in the vibe. It’s a more relaxed concert experience than our Mainstage series, perfect for those who like their live music loud, lively, and a little less formal.

Kicking off MCPA Amped is Joan Osborne and Lisa Loeb!

Joan Osborne and Lisa Loeb, two iconic voices of the ’90s, come together for a special evening celebrating the 30th anniversaries of their breakthrough albums: Loeb’s Tails and Osborne’s Relish.

These genre-blending records combined folk, pop, and rock with intimate, unforgettable storytelling.

From Loeb’s “Stay (I Missed You)” to Osborne’s “One of Us,” relive the anthems that defined a generation, along with new music and fan favorites from throughout their careers.

Click here for ticket information. 

(From the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library)

On November 7 from 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM, meet, mingle, and support the local authors in your community at our tenth annual Author Fest!

We’re a stop on the ArtWalk, with books available for sale and signing, plus a Friends of the Library book sale on the library’s lower level.

Please note that library services (computers, printing, materials check-out) will not be available during this event. 

Participating authors include: Kirstene D. Adkins, Terry Armstrong, C.E. Arnold, SM Broad, John/Scott Emerson Campbell, James Colson, Naykishia D.D. Darby, Alexander Davis, Chantal DeYoe, Dr. Katie Erickson, Tracey Gates, Heidi Glick, Rachel Greschel, Brenda Haas, Amber Honse-Bushong, Nikki Hughey, Lara Jade, Jacinda A. Jones, Rosalie King, T.C. Kissel, Eden Knox, Meghan O. Koesters, Dr. Marie Louden-Hanes, Alireza Majidi, Louis Masterson, Mindy McGinnis, Wendy Montgomery, Ellen Myers, Paula Johnson Neal, Josh Nealis, Buzz Parcher, Macy Rader, David Sielschott, Tiffany K. Smith, Ashton M. Stevenson, Laura Wasson, Brandon Weis, Monique Wilbert, & Carl Wilhoyte.

The Tiffin Police Department said an officer’s gun accidentally discharged while responding to a domestic disturbance and they were injured.

While separating three individuals on Tuesday morning, one of which was arrested, police say the officer’s gun accidentally discharged while being readjusted.

The officer was transported to Mercy Health-Tiffin Hospital and then flown by medical helicopter to a Toledo hospital.

The police department said the officer’s injury is not life-threatening and that they are in good condition. 

The police department is withholding the names of the officers involved as part of its internal investigation.

(From the Black Swamp Area Council of Scouting America)

The Black Swamp Area Council of Scouting America invites all Scouting alumni and friends to a special evening of reconnection and camaraderie at the Arrowwood Alumni Event, taking place on Thursday, October 30, from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM at the State Bank Main Street Location, 408 S. Main Street, Findlay.

This casual gathering will feature appetizers and drinks, and provide a chance to get reacquainted with today’s Scouting. A local Scouting update will be shared at 5:45 PM, offering insights into current programs and initiatives impacting youth in our community.

Whether you wore the uniform or supported Scouting in other ways, this event is a great opportunity to reconnect with fellow alumni, meet current leaders, and learn how Scouting continues to make a difference.

RSVPs are appreciated but not required. Attendees are welcome to come in casual or work attire.

“Scouting builds a strong foundation for young people to be prepared for life,” said Marc Kogan, Scout Executive of the Black Swamp Area Council. “It creates a common bond that carries into adulthood, shaping character, leadership, and lifelong friendships.”

(From the University of Findlay)

The University of Findlay and its community partners will launch the 20th Annual Helping Hands Food Drive on Tuesday, October 28, bringing together students, faculty, staff, local schools, and residents in a week-long effort to combat hunger across Hancock County. The drive benefits CHOPIN Hall and aims to collect thousands of pounds of non-perishable food through friendly competition, creative challenges, and volunteerism.

This year’s theme, “Band Together to Fight Hunger,” reflects the community’s united front in addressing food insecurity.

The food drive opens with a public marching band showcase at Findlay High School’s Cooper Field on Tuesday, October 28 at 7 p.m., featuring a Findlay Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting ceremony and a competition to see which high school band can collect the most food by weight. Admission to the event is a donation of non-perishable food, with priority items including peanut butter, canned fruit, juice, canned soup, and cereal.

“We are proud to celebrate 20 years of collaboration, generosity, and impact,” said David Harr, Director of Sodexo at the University of Findlay. “The Helping Hands Food Drive shows what’s possible when an entire region comes together to support our neighbors in need.”

Other highlights of the drive include:

• • UF Campus Challenge (Oct. 29): Campus departments compete in food collection and door decorating, vying for the Emsweller Helping Hands Cup.

• • Make and Partake (Oct. 29): A creative workshop for faculty, staff, and friends, with proceeds and food donations supporting the drive.

• • Can-struction Competition (Begins Oct. 31): Student groups construct themed sculptures made of canned goods, judged on creativity, volume, and community votes.

• • Hancock Schools Golden Can Competition (Nov. 4): Area schools compete for the most food collected per student.

• • Official Collection Day (Nov. 5): Community members can donate food at the University of Findlay’s Center for Student Life from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Volunteers will be stations at collection points across Findlay from 11 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. distributing shopping lists and gathering donations.

• • Awards Ceremony (Nov. 6): The drive concludes with a ceremony at 12:00 p.m. recognizing top contributors, creative entries, and community partners.

All food collected will be inspected, sorted, and delivered to CHOPIN Hall on the morning of Thursday, November 6, courtesy of Garner Trucking.

Last year’s drive collected 265,216 pounds of food, and organizers hope to exceed that number in this milestone year.

For more information or to volunteer, please visit the Helping Hands Food Drive webpage.

About Helping Hands Food Drive

Founded in 2005 by the University of Findlay, the Helping Hands Food Drive has grown into a community tradition that mobilizes schools, businesses, and individuals to address hunger in Hancock County. All donations directly benefit CHOPIN Hall, a local nonprofit serving individuals and families in need.

(From the Wood County Sheriff’s Office)

On November 5, Sheriff Wasylyshyn and the Wood County Sheriff’s Office, will proudly launch I.G.N.I.T.E. (Inmate Growth Naturally and Intentionally Through Education), joining a nationwide initiative developed by Sheriff Christopher Swanson, Genesee County, Michigan, and led by the National Sheriffs’ Association. This initiative transforms lives through education, rehabilitation, and second chances.

The launch in Wood County marks the fourth IGNITE site in Ohio and the 30th nationwide. Ohio now ranks second in the nation for the number of IGNITE program sites, reflecting the state’s growing commitment to expanding education and rehabilitation opportunities in its county jails, making communities safer.

“We are excited to be the fourth IGNITE site in the state. Education plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation of incarcerated individuals. By providing inmates with access to educational programs, they can gain essential skills and knowledge that can enhance their employability upon release.”

IGNITE offers a wide array of educational and personal growth opportunities within the jail. Prospective courses offered include: Skilled Trades Training (including Virtual Reality), Employment Counseling, Financial Literacy, ServSafe Certifications, Parenting Classes, Religious and Counseling Services, and more.

This merit-based initiative incentivizes positive behavior and engagement while connecting participants to vital resources upon release. Backed by researchers from Harvard University, Brown University, and the University of Michigan, the program has been shown to reduce recidivism, improve post-release employment, and foster a more positive environment within jails.

“Ultimately, investing in education for inmates not only benefits the individuals themselves, but also contributes to safer communities by reducing recidivism rates.”

The Sheriff’s Office is seeking community partners, volunteers, and sponsors to expand educational and workforce training offerings. Those interested in supporting this transformative effort are encouraged to contact Lt. Jamison Martinez at jlmartinez@woodcountyohio.gov or Lt. Brittany Brown at bbrown@woodcountyohio.gov.