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.

When you check out Findlay’s Christmas Tree this year know that the star at the top was made by students at Millstream Career Center.

In 2021, Mayor Christina Muryn says she asked the construction, welding, and engineering students to create a topper for the tree and that they jumped at the challenge.

She says the students came up with two designs and prototypes and she met with them and chose which one will be displayed atop the tree.

She says the students then met with the City of Findlay to go over how the star would be secured and how electricity would be run to it.

“I’m really proud of these students,” Muryn said.

You can watch the tree lighting ceremony in the video below. 

(From the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts)

Marathon Center for the Performing Arts is holding auditions for Youtheatre’s upcoming winter production of The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition. Auditions are open to students in grades 3-5 including an on-stage cast of no more than 50 students in addition to positions on the production’s technical crew.

Join Dorothy and her loyal companion Toto as they “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” through the Land of Oz, determined to reach the Emerald City, where the great and powerful Wizard of Oz will help them get home. Of course, along the way, Dorothy encounters witches (both good and bad), Munchkins, talking trees and winged monkeys. But most importantly, she befriends three unique characters: a Scarecrow with no brain, a Tin Man with no heart, and a Lion with no “nerve.” Their journey to happiness – and self-awareness – is a glowing testament to friendship, understanding and hope in a world filled with both beauty and ugliness.

Auditions for the on-stage cast will begin promptly at 6 p.m. Monday, January 20 and Tuesday, January 21 at Marathon Center for the Performing Arts located at 200 W. Main Cross Street in Findlay. Check-in will begin 30 mins before auditions begin.  *Please note that Monday, January 20 has reached capacity and is no longer accepting new registrations.*

All students in grades 3-5 who wish to audition or apply for the technical crew must register and complete the required forms which can be found online at MCPA.org/Youtheatre. 

Students only need to attend one day of auditions. Those auditioning for the on-stage cast need to come prepared for movement. Youth interested in technical crew will only need to register online.

Youtheatre’s production of The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition will be directed by Samantha Henry. The directing team includes Lindsay Taylor as assistant director, Zachary Thomas as music director and Jordan Gottschalk as choreographer. The performances are slated for March 14 and 15 at Marathon Center for the Performing Arts.

The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC.

(From Blanchard Valley Health System)

Blanchard Valley Health System Wellness Park – a cutting-edge campus dedicated to health and healing – is now open. Conveniently located on Wellness Way off County Road 99 in Findlay, right by I-75, this modern facility is designed to meet our community’s health needs like never before.

At Wellness Park, healthcare experts collaborate to provide comprehensive care in one centralized location, reinforcing our commitment to our mission of “Caring for a lifetime.”

Heather Schalk, volunteer services manager for BVHS, was on with WFIN’s Chris Oaks to discuss the new campus.

We offer various services, including primary care, endocrinology, diabetes management, rheumatology, orthopedics, pediatric rehabilitation, and various rehabilitation therapies (physical, occupational, and speech). After January 6, imaging and laboratory services will be available right on-site.

Wellness Park aims to address the growing challenges of chronic conditions like diabetes while expanding primary care options. 

Just as our dedicated BVHS providers empower their patients to achieve better health, we believe Wellness Park will strengthen the overall well-being of Northwest Ohio.

The site features an expanded Julie A. Cole Rehab & Sports Medicine with an on-site gym area along with a dedicated pediatric rehab space for occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, and behavioral health therapy.

Appointments for the following practices will be at the new address, 3411 Wellness Way, Findlay, as of December 16, 2024:

 Endocrinology & Diabetes Specialists of Northwest Ohio 

 Rheumatology Specialists of Northwest Ohio

 Primary Care at Wellness Park

Appointments for the following practices will be at the new address, 3401 Wellness Way, Findlay, as of January 6, 2025:

 Blanchard Valley Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

 Julie A. Cole Rehab & Sports Medicine 

With practitioners from several specialties coordinating care at a single site, we will be able to manage our community’s health and well-being needs even better than before. Wellness Park brings together comprehensive care in one centralized location, reinforcing the BVHS mission of “Caring for a lifetime.”

(From Hancock Public Health)

Promoting safe toys and gifts during this month is essential for children’s well-being. Here are ways to participate and ensure safe gift-giving:

* Check Labels: Always look for age-appropriate labels on toys and gifts, and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
* Avoid Small Parts: Steer clear of toys with small parts or choking hazards for young children.
* Inspect for Hazards: Examine toys for sharp edges, loose parts, or any potential dangers that could harm children.
* Read Reviews: Research toys and gifts online, read reviews, and ask for recommendations from other parents and caregivers.
* Consider Child’s Age: Take into account a child’s age, interests, and abilities when selecting gifts.
* Support Educational Toys: Choose toys and gifts that encourage learning, creativity, and development.
* Spread Awareness: Share safety tips and information about Safe Toys & Gifts Month with your community and on social media