(From the University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum)
On January 11th from 1:00–3:30 PM, join us for a Birthday Party celebrating America’s 250th Birthday, featuring a special visit from author/illustrator duo Peter Barnes and Cheryl Shaw Barnes.
We’ll also be celebrating the opening of our new America 250 gallery, and thanks to America 250-Ohio, every child will receive a free book to take home.
A perfect afternoon for families to celebrate history, reading, and community together.
(From the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office)
On January 4th, 2026 at 5:25pm, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office received 911 calls regarding a structure fire located at 16440 U.S. 224 Columbus Grove, Ohio, which is located just outside of the Village of Kalida.
Upon arrival, first responders found a large shed, standing next to the residence fully engulfed. After approximately three hours, the fire was extinguished and the building deemed a total loss.
The residence, which is owned by Kenneth and Deborah Karl, suffered only cosmetic damages.
On scene was the Kalida Fire Department assisted by the Columbus Grove Fire Department, Fort Jennings Fire Department, and the Glandorf Fire Department.
Also assisting was the Kalida E.M.S. Columbus Grove E.M.S. Putnam County E.M.S. and Elite Drove Services.
It is unclear of what caused the fire and the Ohio Fire Marshal Service will be following up on the matter in the next couple days.
(From The Ohio State Highway Patrol)
Do you have a new year’s resolution to volunteer more and give back to your community? Here’s your chance to make an impact in 2026.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol Auxiliary, an all-volunteer force that supports troopers in their daily duties, is looking for dedicated volunteers who want to help create a safer Ohio.
Auxiliary officers assist with crash scenes, traffic stops, traffic control, disaster relief and special details across the state. If you’re ready to give back, learn new skills and serve your community, now is your chance.
Start the year with purpose. Start it with us. https://www.oshpauxiliary.org/join
The City of Findlay says the Green Waste Site will be open Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. until Friday, January 16, for Christmas Tree disposal.
The Green Waste Site is located at 330 North Cory Street, behind the public works department.
The entrance is near the railroad tracks.
(From Findlay Firefighters Local 381)
As 2025 has come to an end, Findlay Firefighters officially completed our busiest year on record at 2,977 calls for service.
This is an increase from 2,352 in 2020 (20.9% increase) and 2,178 calls in 2015 (26.8% increase).
Our call volume may continue to increase, but our commitment remains constant.
Local 381 would like to thank our community for their support.
We are extremely blessed to work for such an incredible city and look forward to continuing to work with the newly sworn in city council members.
Here’s to a great 2026!
(From Blanchard Valley Health System)
What a sweet way to celebrate the new year!
Nevaeh Olyvia Robinson welcomed her New Year’s baby boy, Ny’Meir Keyari Jones, at 5:29 a.m. on January 1, 2026. Weighing in at 5lbs. 10 oz, Ny’Meir is the perfect way to start 2026.
Join us in congratulating the happy family! Thank you for entrusting Blanchard Valley Health System with your care on this special day.
To learn more about our comprehensive women’s care services, visit bvhealthsystem.org/women.
The Ohio Department of Transportation is letting drivers know of a ramp closure on Interstate 75.
ODOT says the Interstate 75 northbound entrance ramp from State Route 103 in Bluffton will close on Monday, January 5, for approximately one day for bridge repairs.
The suggested detour from ODOT: SR 103 to SR 235, back to I-75.
The Children’s Museum of Findlay is working on getting its new location ready to go after having to leave the now-demolished Findlay Mall.
The new location for the Children’s Museum of Findlay is 11600 County Road 99, a little east of the RaceTrac gas station.
“We can’t wait to bring PLAY back to life for our community,” the museum said while announcing its new location.
A special thank-you to our Board Members, donors, and community champions who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this happen.
Executive Director Allison Behm-Kemmere was on with WFIN’s Chris Oaks in November to discuss all that goes into getting their new facility ready for the kids.
The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office has released its monthly totals for December.
Calls for Service: 878
Traffic Stops: 339
Paper Service: 93
Motor Vehicle Accidents: 72
Domestic Violence/ Disputes: 7
OVI’s: 1
Warrants Served: 4
Vehicle Unlocks: 12
Golf Cart Inspections: 3
Corrections Division:
Total Book-Ins: 23
Jail Transports: 31
Average Daily Inmate Population: 25
(From Hancock Park District)
Here are our 2025 Photography Contest entries!
Please cast your vote by liking your favorite photograph(s) on this original post no later than 11:59pm on January 16.
The photograph with the most likes will be named our “People’s Choice” winner and receive $200 along with a plaque.
Thank you to everyone who submitted photographs this year!