Category Archives: WFIN Top Story

Community Foundation Mourns Passing Of Warren Kahn

(From the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation)

With heavy hearts, we share the news of Warren Kahn’s passing.

While Warren wasn’t one to seek the spotlight, his dedication and impact was immense.

Quietly and effectively, he played a pivotal role in one of the most significant gifts the Foundation has ever received, the Madeleine Thomas Schneider Fund.

Warren’s generosity and belief in our mission will have a lasting impact on our community.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends.

Firefighters Helping Humane Society Find Homes For Shelter Pets

(From the Humane Society and SPCA of Hancock County)

We are so excited to share with you all this next journey!

We want to say a BIG Thank you to Findlay Fire Department for joining us on this adventure and Dave Morrow in donating his amazing photography skills!

Meet your local heroes and their new furry friends!

Our firefighters have teamed up with Hancock County Humane Society to help these lovable animals find their forever homes.

Swipe through to see these brave men and women posing with adoptable dogs and cats, each ready to rescue your heart!

Sometimes even our brave Men and Women in uniform, just need that fury Friend to listen and confide in!

Because every hero deserves a companion.

Let’s give these animals the happy ending they deserve!

Mazza Museum ‘Funday Sunday’ To Feature ‘Accelerate!’ Theme

(From The Mazza Museum)

A fast-paced afternoon of fun is promised for area residents of all ages on March 2 during the next “Funday Sunday” program at University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum. The program, which is free and open to the public, features a “Accelerate!” theme.

“We have an unforgettable event lined up that’s bursting with high-speed excitement and vibrant energy. It’s the perfect way to kick off a day of creativity and adventure,” said Amanda Davidson-Johnston, education manager at the Mazza Museum.

“Guests will enjoy activities centered around cars, rockets, airplanes, and rollercoasters – really anything that goes fast!” she added.

Imagination Station and Findlay Women in STEAM (Wistem) also will participate in the event.

Registration is required and can be completed on the Mazza Museum’s website or https://oilers.findlay.edu/pages/events/mazza-funday-sunday

Funday Sundays take place monthly at the Mazza Museum, from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., through April. The event is sponsored by Hancock Federal Credit Union.

The theme for the last Funday Sunday this semester will be “Farmyard Fables” on April 6.

For more information on upcoming events, visit the Mazza Museum’s Events page online at www.mazzamuseum.org/events/. For specific questions regarding Funday Sunday, contact Amanda Davidson-Johnston, Mazza Museum education manager, at 419-434-4777 or send an email to amanda.davidson-johnston@findlay.edu.

Officials Warn Of Unpaid Tolls Scam

(ONN) – Federal and state officials are warning about an unpaid tolls scam that’s going around.

Many are getting texts about unpaid tolls, but don’t fall for it.

The Federal Trade Commission says the link on the text messages could allow scammers to steal a phone owner’s personal information — as well as money.

Officials say the texts impersonate toll-collecting agencies and appear to come from international phone numbers.

The Ohio Department of Transportation says people should delete the text and not reply.

Bill Calls For Stiffer Penalties For School Bus Law Violators

(ONN) – Higher penalties and potential criminal charges could be on the table for violators passing a stopped school bus.

$300 is the civil penalty drivers caught passing a stopped bus with its lights flashing could get under Ohio Senate Bill 329 if it’s passed

Of that money, $50 would go to a statewide school bus safety fund.

The rest would go to the district operating the school bus that caught the violation.

Tiffin PD Recognizes Personnel For Dedication And Service

(From the Tiffin Police Department)

Tonight at the city council meeting we proudly recognized the outstanding dedication and service of our folks at the Tiffin Police Department from 2024.

Recipients of DEPARTMENT COMMENDATIONS:

* Beth Dell – For her outstanding efforts in recruitment, strengthening our department for the future.

* Detective Eric England – For his relentless pursuit of justice investigating internet crimes against children.

* Detective Justin Nowak – For his exceptional contributions to the Metrich Drug Task Force.

* Officer Marcus Somers – For his impressive patrol performance and unwavering commitment to excellence.

* Officer Kaden Wuescher – For consistently exceeding expectations in patrol operations.

* Sergeant Vern Keefe – For his invaluable work in IT services, keeping our critical systems running smoothly.

PERFECT ATTENDANCE AWARD:

Availability is a cornerstone of exceptional policing—being present, reliable, and ready every day. We honor these officers who exemplify that commitment:

* Officer Alec Traxler – 1st time recipient

* Officer Andrew Stevens – 3rd time recipient

* Sergeant Joe Feld – 3rd time recipient

* Sergeant Jared Watson – 5th time recipient

* Officer Michael Moore – 12-time recipient and reigning champion!

And now, for our top honors…

2024 OFFICER OF THE YEAR – Officer Shawn Vallery

With nearly 29 years of service, Officer Vallery continues to set the standard for excellence. This is his second Officer of the Year award, a testament to the deep respect he has earned from his peers and the community. He is a mentor, a leader, and an unwavering force of professionalism. Congratulations, Shawn, and thank you for your dedication!

2024 DISPATCHER OF THE YEAR – Telecommunications Officer Madison Brady.

In just over three years, Madison has become a vital part of our team, displaying professionalism, grace under pressure, and an unwavering commitment to keeping our officers and community safe. This well-earned recognition reflects her skill, focus, and dedication. Congratulations, Madison!

We are proud of each and every one of you. Your hard work does not go unnoticed—thank you for making Tiffin a safer place to live, work and play.

Chief Pauly

Local Red Cross Director Joining Kentucky Flood Relief Efforts

(From the American Red Cross of North Central Ohio)

Todd James, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of North Central Ohio is joining the ongoing Red Cross flood relief operation in eastern Kentucky. James will be serving as the Assistant Director of External Relations, helping coordinate efforts with local, state and federal partners in assisting families affected by flooding with their ongoing recovery needs.

Over the weekend, monsoon rains inundated the Southeast, leading to devastating flooding, power outages, evacuations and numerous water rescues. In hard-hit Kentucky, more than a month’s worth of rain affected the entire state. The storms are over, but river levels continue to rise, and a winter storm is now headed to the region. The Red Cross is responding across multiple states, working around the clock to help people impacted by the flooding. Shelters are open in Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia where about 500 people spent Monday night.

James is expected to serve for two weeks on the operation. This is his 43rd disaster relief deployment.

How You Can Help

You can help people affected by disasters like floods, fires and countless other crises by making a gift to Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767), or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a donation.

NHL Game To Be Played At Ohio Stadium

(ONN) – Preparations continue as the National Hockey League will be on the Ohio State campus on March 1 for the Columbus Blue Jackets – Detroit Red Wings matchup at Ohio Stadium.

The NHL is prepping The Shoe for some hockey the base floor going in with a 53 foot trailer that features the world’s largest refrigeration unit.

Why so big? Well, it’s how they ensure that the sheet of ice will be of NHL quality come game night, said Mike Craig of the NHL Stadium Series.

Findlay Police Department Remembers Fallen Officer

(From the Findlay Police Department)

On February 20, 1898, Policeman William Holly was shot and killed while he and another officer chased two burglary suspects.

One of the men opened fire on Policeman Holly, killing him. Both suspects were arrested and charged with murder.

The suspect who shot Policeman Holly was sentenced to 20 years of hard labor.

We remember Officer Holly for his ultimate sacrifice for the safety and protection of citizens in the City of Findlay, OH.

Ofcr. Holly’s name is represented on our local memorial at the Ft. Findlay Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #20 on S. Romick Parkway and also at Officer Down Memorial Page and all of our Officers and Troopers in Hancock County who have died in the line of duty.

ODMP is the largest law enforcement memorial in the country, and our presence online enables supporters to learn about and honor fallen heroes regardless of their geographic location.

The ODMP will continue to expand our offerings in constant service to our primary mission: honoring those officers who have died in the line of duty in the U.S.

Blanchard Valley Health System Hosts Blood Drive

(From Blanchard Valley Health System)

Blanchard Valley Health System recently hosted a heartfelt blood drive, welcoming our associates and community members to give the gift of life.

Donating blood is a powerful act of compassion, supporting those facing accident recovery, cancer treatments, blood disorders, and more.

Pictured is Myron D. Lewis, MSW, MBA, FACHE, president & chief executive officer of BVHS, leading by example and embracing the spirit of giving.

Click here to see a list of upcoming blood drives in the area.