(From the United Way of Hancock County)

Volunteers are needed to help run a free tax preparation program that is expected to return over $1 million to the community.

United Way of Hancock County is seeking volunteer tax preparers and greeters for its free income tax preparation program, called VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance). This IRS program serves income-eligible individuals who live, work or attend college in Hancock County and may not otherwise be able to afford to have their taxes prepared and filed. The United Way is again collaborating with the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library and 50 North, who will host the service at their sites.

During the 2024 VITA season, nearly 920 state and federal tax returns were filed by a group of 18 VITA volunteers. United Way of Hancock County has won a large federal grant that will allow for expansion of the program during the 2025 tax season to assist even more community members.

Appointments for the 2025 VITA season will begin Feb. 5 and will continue into the days leading up to Tax Day, based on demand.

Beginning Jan. 21, community members may call 567-245-5599 to schedule their appointment. Callers will be asked a series of questions to ensure that they qualify and will be informed of the items they must bring to their appointment.

To qualify, an individual’s combined household income must be $67,000 or less. All clients must live, work or attend school in Hancock County. In addition, trained VITA volunteers will provide guidance to senior citizens who no longer need to file taxes.

The United Way is recruiting volunteers to serve as tax preparers and greeters at both the library and 50 North. Morning, afternoon and evening shifts are available Mondays through Fridays, plus Saturday mornings. Volunteers can schedule their own hours during whatever month or months they are available.

Tax preparers will prepare and electronically file taxes for clients. No accounting background is necessary, and volunteers can work through training online or may attend three in-person training sessions with the VITA site coordinator in January to become certified. All new volunteers will work with an experienced tax preparer until they are comfortable with the program.

Greeters are also needed to welcome clients as they arrive for appointments and check them in, and to ensure that clients have the necessary paperwork for tax preparation.

Contact Bridgit at accounting@uwhancock.org or call 419-423-1432 to sign up as a volunteer or for more information.

(From the Ohio Department of Transportation)

WYANDOT COUNTY TRAFFIC ALERT

State Route 103/State Route 199/Findlay Street between Columbus Avenue and Ogg Street in the village of Carey will close on Tuesday, Jan. 14, for approximately one day to repair the railroad crossing.

Detours

• SR 103 detour: U.S. 23 south to SR 199 north, back to SR 103
• SR 199 detour: U.S. 23 south to SR 199

(From Blanchard Valley Health System President & CEO Myron Lewis)

As we enter a new year, each day offers an opportunity to refocus on what truly matters—our health and well-being. At Blanchard Valley Health System, we are passionate about supporting our community in taking meaningful steps toward healthier, more fulfilling lives. As you consider your goals for 2025, I encourage you to prioritize your health.

After all, health is the foundation of everything we do. Good health enables us to care for our families, excel at work, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Understanding your personal health numbers is among the most essential actions to improve your health. Metrics, such as cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and fasting blood sugar (or A1C), provide a clear snapshot of your overall wellness. Keeping track of them will guide you in making informed decisions to improve your quality of life and reduce your risk of a stroke, heart attack, or cancer.

I feel so strongly about encouraging others to track these three metrics that I am taking the message on the road. Throughout this year, I will speak on behalf of BVHS to the community and healthcare conferences. By working together, we can help our communities make informed healthcare decisions. In our region, dedicated BVHS teams are ready to help you manage your health journey.

Scheduling an annual wellness check allows you to establish a baseline for key health metrics and address potential concerns early. Changes to cholesterol, blood pressure, or fasting blood sugar (or A1C) frequently occur without noticeable symptoms, and your primary care provider can help you determine how often to check them. If you do not have a primary care provider, you can call 419.422.APPT to make an appointment with one at any of several Blanchard Valley Medical Practices locations throughout Northwest Ohio.

Knowing your numbers will empower you to make changes to improve your health. While some health conditions require medication, lifestyle changes can make a profound difference. Regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, weight management, effective stress management, daily routines, and enough sleep are all key to better health. Small, consistent actions—like a daily walk or incorporating more fresh fruits and vegetables into your meals—can have a significant impact over time. As an avid cyclist, I know firsthand how staying active can boost physical fitness, mental clarity, and overall well-being.

Your mental health is equally important. Life’s demands can be overwhelming, but seeking support when needed is crucial. Professional counseling, community resources, or simply taking time for self-care can all help you to prioritize emotional well-being.

At BVHS, we are dedicated to promoting physical and mental health for every community member. Our mission extends beyond patient care; we aim to inspire a culture of wellness and connection. Every step you take toward a healthier lifestyle benefits you and strengthens our community. Let’s continue supporting each other in prioritizing health and wellness, no matter the season or circumstance.

Here’s to your health and wellness—today and every day!

Myron D. Lewis, MSW, MBA, FACHE

President & Chief Executive Officer

Blanchard Valley Health System

The Humane Society and SPCA of Hancock County is reminding people to look out for their pets this winter, especially during times of extreme cold and wind chills.

The Humane Society’s Natalie Reffitt says her best advice to pet parents is to keep their pets inside during extremely cold weather and only let them out, with supervision, to go to the restroom and bring them in immediately when they finish.

Natalie also advises people with outside pets to bring them in as well, even if it’s only into a garage or spare room.

If you can’t bring in outdoor pets, make sure they have shelter and insulation, such as straw for bedding.

She says pets must always have access to fresh, clean water and people need to check it to make sure it’s not frozen.

Forecasters are calling for negative wind chills Monday night and Tuesday during the day and night. 

Get the latest forecast and weather alerts by clicking here.

(From Bowling Green State University)

From crime scenes to laboratories, forensic scientists play a critical role in collecting and analyzing evidence to help solve crimes of all forms.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the in-demand career field is expected to grow by 14% by 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

At Bowling Green State University, students are empowered to gain hands-on experience in forensic science well before graduation through an innovative, one-of-a-kind partnership with the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation.

“The partnership with Ohio BCI is such an advantage for students in the forensic science program,” BGSU senior Rachel Hedderman said. “We are learning directly from experienced professionals. They have prepared me better than I could have ever imagined.”

BGSU is the only university in Ohio – and one of a select few in the country – with a professional criminal investigation lab on campus.

The partnership provides students with experiential learning opportunities and establishes a crucial connection between academia and industry to ensure students are highly qualified upon entering the workforce.

The BGSU difference
All BGSU faculty members in the forensic science program have decades of professional experience, and many are current and former Ohio BCI employees.

Dr. Travis Worst, an associate teaching professor and director of the Center for the Future of Forensic Science, said sharing knowledge gleaned from real-life experiences is crucial in preparing students for the complexities of forensic science.

“We all have extensive experience in forensics, which we draw upon as educators,” Worst said. “The on-the-job experience is irreplaceable and allows us to comprehensively prepare students for their careers in forensic science.”

The BGSU undergraduate forensic science program, which includes specializations in drug analysis, examinations and DNA analysis, is one of only two programs in Ohio accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC). BGSU also has Ohio’s only FEPAC-accredited master’s degree program in forensic science.

The Ohio Attorney General’s Center for the Future of Forensic Science at BGSU was the impetus for establishing the degree programs and, in addition, serves to advance research and professional training in forensic science and law enforcement.

Internship experience
As part of Hedderman’s culminating experience in the program, she completed an internship at the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education in Philadelphia, where she worked on mock cases.

The experience, Hedderman said, helped sharpen her skills in determining the presence of DNA, gathering and packaging evidence and writing reports in collaboration with detectives. She also developed DNA profiles and testified as an expert witness in a mock court case.

Reflecting on the internship, Hedderman, who is pursuing a forensic DNA analysis specialization and will graduate in May, said the experience reaffirmed the caliber of her BGSU education.

“It was very encouraging to walk into the internship with a solid foundation of DNA analysis,” Hedderman said. “The knowledge and hands-on experience from BGSU allowed me to spend the summer refining those skills in preparation for my future career.”

(ONN) – Ohio’s governor signed a bill that makes grooming illegal.

Grooming is defined as the act of an adult forging a relationship with a minor to entice or prepare them for sexual activity.

Governor DeWine signed House Bill 322 into law making it illegal.

The new law allows law enforcement to intervene in reported incidents before the relationships become physical.

Adults over the age of 18 are prohibited from engaging in the pattern of conduct with minors under 16.

Penalties range from misdemeanor to felony based on the nature of the relationship between the adult and the minor.

(From the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office)

“We would like to congratulate the 2024 Top Cop Leaders for their hard work keeping the Hancock County roads and community safe.

The Top Cop Officer Recognition Program recognizes deputy’s exemplary service in OVI enforcement and seizures of dangerous narcotics.

We would also like to thank The Hancock Hotel, Berger’s Blades, and The Warrior Poet Society for their support in the Top Cop Officer Recognition Program.

Deputies listed in order left to right: Deputy A. Gresham, Deputy Steele, and Deputy Ritter. (Detective Dammeyer and Deputy Brubaker not shown).”

(From the Ohio High School Athletic Association)

The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) has designated the week of Jan. 12-18 as Winter Sports Officials Appreciation Week.

Officials Appreciation Week is part of the OHSAA’s Respect the Game program, which encourages sportsmanship among student-athletes, coaches, officials and spectators.

“Officiating is both a service and a commitment, and we appreciate each individual in our state who serves as a contest official,” said OHSAA Director of Officiating Beau Rugg. “Officials spend countless hours in clinics, rules meetings and professional development during the offseason to prepare for their roles, and we are grateful for their ongoing service to Ohio’s student-athletes, coaches and member schools.”

Athletic administrators are encouraged to utilize an OHSAA-provided public address script before all home games during the week and use their social media accounts to show appreciation for contest officials.

The spring season Officials Appreciation Week is scheduled for April 6-12.

(From the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library)

The Findlay-Hancock County Public Library will be replacing carpet and updating paint in part of the library and reorganizing the youth, teen, media and genealogy collections in a project starting January 27.

The collection reorganization includes merging the Media Services Department with the Adult Services Department service desks into one service point and moving the teen collection to the area vacated by Media Services. The genealogy collection will be moved to where the Teen collection is currently. The media collection will be moved to the current Genealogy space.

The much-anticipated project will give the library a colorful, brand-new look and the movement of departments will allow the library to maximize the space available.

The work will be done in phases, from January 27 – February 7, with the library remaining open during the first phase. The Youth Services and Media Services Department will be closed to patrons from January 27 to approximately February 7, but patrons may still request those items by using the catalog on our website at findlaylibrary.org to place items on hold for pick up.

The library will be closed on February 3 and 4 as new flooring is installed on the stairway leading into the main level of the library and new carpeting installed near the circulation desk.

The library will reopen on February 5, as crews continue painting and carpeting in the Media Services Department.

Director Sarah Clevidence said of the changes, “We are excited to bring some color into the library through paint and carpet. While we understand that shifting collections can be challenging as our patrons and staff adjust to the new locations, we believe these changes will help the library make the best use of the space available in our building. We look forward to showing off these long-anticipated updates.”

The project is being funded by specific resources that have been earmarked for capital improvements.

(From the Fort Findlay FOP Lodge 20 Foundation)

The Fort Findlay Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge 20 Foundation has announced a special fundraising gala to honor the legacy of Officer Douglas T. Akers and endow the Officer Douglas T. Akers Memorial Scholarship. The event, ‘Cuffs & Stuff,’ is on Thursday, February 6, at the Old Mill Stream Centre, 1017 E Sandusky St, Findlay, OH 45840.  An additional purpose of the event is to highlight mental health awareness and support aspiring law enforcement professionals.

A significant highlight of the evening is the Master of Ceremonies, Vinnie Montez, a seasoned law enforcement officer and acclaimed stand-up comedian. Montez, a 20-plus-year veteran of Colorado law enforcement, began performing comedy in 2007 as a way to cope with the stresses of his job. Drawing from his experiences as a police officer and his Mexican heritage, Montez quickly became a comedy favorite, appearing at venues nationwide, including Denver’s Comedy Works and the Great American Comedy Festival.

Montez’s comedy special, Vinnie Montez: Armed & Hilarious, debuted on Dry Bar Comedy in 2019. He has shared the stage with top comedians such as Michelle Wolf, Josh Blue, and Gilbert Gottfried. Known for his hilarious and heartfelt stories about policing and mental health, Montez uses humor to bridge gaps between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

“We’re thrilled to have Vinnie Montez bring his incredible energy and humor to this event,” said Teresa White, Development Director of the Fort Findlay FOP Lodge 20 Foundation. “His dedication to mental health and law enforcement mirrors the goals of this fundraiser, making him the perfect MC for this special evening.”

The evening will also feature a live auction offering exclusive experiences with local FOP members, including:
• Mommy’s Day Out with Officer Brian White
Moms can enjoy a day of relaxation at a local spa while Officer White supervises up to four children for an adventurous afternoon at The Children’s Museum.

• Pew Pew with Officer Brooks Deidrick
  Spend three hours at a local shooting range under the expert guidance of Officer Deidrick. All ammunition is included in this exclusive experience.
• Retirees Refuge with Officer Tom Davis
  Explore the Hancock County Courthouse with a private tour led by “John Hancock” himself. Follow it up with a backyard barbecue catered by Texas Roadhouse and a live performance by the four-piece band East of Cheyenne.
• Privacy Please with Sheriff Cortez, Chief Mathias, and Lt. Slates
  Enjoy a three-course meal for two in the Presidential Suite at the Hancock Hotel, hosted by Sheriff Mike Cortez, Police Chief James Mathias, State Highway Patrol Lieutenant Evan Slates, and their spouses. The winner and guest will also enjoy an overnight stay in the luxurious suite.

Cuffs & Stuff tickets and sponsorship levels are available online at fortfindlayfop20.org or the Fort Findlay FOP Lodge. For more information, contact Teresa White at 833-563-4320.

About Officer Douglas T. Akers
Officer Akers (March 9, 1964 – December 31, 2018) distinguished himself in the Findlay Police Department from 1991 until his passing in 2018. He was Named Officer of the Year in 2012 and was a dedicated member of Findlay FOP Lodge #20. Known for his Christian faith, devotion to family, and love for the outdoors, Doug’s life was tragically cut short by suicide. The scholarship in his name honors his legacy and supports students pursuing careers in law enforcement.

About Fort Findlay FOP Lodge 20
The Fort Findlay Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police has served Hancock County since 1935. It supports active, retired, and fallen members and their families while fostering positive relationships between citizens and law enforcement through youth and community programming.