The Findlay Police Department is reminding parents and kids of some Halloween safety tips as Trick-or-Treat events approach.

Findlay Police Officer Brian White was on with WFIN’s Chris Oaks to discuss Halloween safety.

Brian reminds parents to make sure their child can safely get around in their costume and can see well if they’re wearing a mask.

He says bright costumes and those with flashing lights are great ideas.

Brian reminds Trick-or-Treaters to stay in groups and to cross at designated crosswalks and intersections.

He also reminds drivers to keep an eye out for kids, especially in neighborhoods that don’t have many sidewalks.

He advises parents to check candy before allowing their kids to start eating it.

Brian says extra police officers will be out and about during Trick-or-Treat, and will be handing out candy along South Main Street.

Parents are encouraged to check the Sex Offender Database to see what offenders might be living in the area.

Findlay’s Trick-or-Treat is scheduled for Saturday, October 25, from 6 to 8 p.m.

See a list of other communities’ Trick-or-Treat times by clicking here.

Get more Halloween safety tips in the audio above.

(From the Hancock County Veterans Service Office)

The upcoming Veterans Empowerment Fall Fair provides an opportunity for area Veterans and their families and friends to learn about local resources, helpful organizations, and employment opportunities.

The event will be held on Saturday, November 8 on the campus of Owens Community College from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. inside the Community Education & Wellness Center.

A range of resource organizations will have information booths with representatives available to tell visitors about their programs in areas ranging from wellness and finances to home/environment, growth, and life resources. We are expecting to have over 30 booths at this event.

There will be an acoustic performance from Guitars for Vets – Findlay Chapter Band “A.W.O.L.”

The Veterans Empowerment Fair is free and open to the public. Thank you to our venue sponsor, Rate Mortgage, a trusted USO partner and VA loan expert, and Masney Insurance Agency, whose sponsorship allows us to provide lunch to all attendees free of charge.

For more information, visit hancockveterans.com or call 419.424.7036.

(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.

The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office says a Findlay man was killed in a three-vehicle crash.

The sheriff’s office said Jason Alford, 22, of Findlay, was driving west on U.S. 224 in a minivan at around 4:50 Wednesday afternoon, and as he approached stopped traffic at Township Road 123, he went into the eastbound lane of travel.

His minivan sideswiped a car before striking a pickup truck head-on.

The sheriff’s office said Alford died in the crash, while the driver of the pickup, Barry Handerson, 63, of Alabama, was taken to Blanchard Valley Hospital with serious injuries.

The driver of the car that was sideswiped was not injured. 

The crash remains under investigation.

UPDATE – The Findlay Police Department has released the name of the person who was killed in an officer-involved shooting on Wednesday.

Police say the suspect has been identified as Robert Norton, of Findlay.

The police department said the bodycam footage will be released on Friday.

ORIGINAL STORY – The Findlay Police Department says a male died after brandishing a gun and being shot by officers.

The police department said officers responded to 1642 Cherry Lane at 1:47 Wednesday afternoon on the report of a shooting.

Officers said the door was opened by a male who brandished a firearm at the officers.

Officers fired at the individual, striking him several times.

Officers rendered aid to the male, and he was taken to Blanchard Valley Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

His name is being withheld until next of kin are notified.

Officers cleared the house and no one else was located.

No officers were injured.

Police say the investigation is being conducted by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation.

(From the United Way of Hancock County)

Ticket sales for United Way of Hancock County’s upcoming Downtown Restaurant Tour will generate $16,000 to fight hunger in our community.

This popular annual event will return Thursday, Nov. 6, with over 15 local bars and restaurants offering samples of some of their tastiest offerings. From 5-9 p.m. that evening, ticketholders can visit each business to sample the featured food, drink or dessert and get their “Passport” stamped.

Tickets are $40 each and can be purchased through the United Way’s website at www.uwhancock.org. Only 400 Passports will be sold, and this event is expected to sell out.

All proceeds from Passport sales will be put toward fighting hunger across Hancock County, meaning that this year’s event will raise $16,000. United Way’s partners in food security include Christian Clearing House, the Findlay Family YMCA, West Ohio Food Bank and the Salvation Army.

“We hear from people every year who tell us the Downtown Restaurant Tour is their favorite night out in Findlay,” said United Way of Hancock County CEO Kelley McClurkin. “We are proud to shine a spotlight on all our downtown destinations have to offer while raising critical funds to boost food security in our community.”

Passports can be picked up starting Oct. 29 at the United Way office, 318 W. Main Cross, second floor. Business hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and elevator access is available in the back of the building.

Call 419-423-1432 for more information or to arrange for pickup outside of these hours.

(From the Office of Congressman Bob Latta)

Yesterday, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) personally led two U.S. Capitol tours for students from Marion Local Schools and Coldwater Middle School in Mercer County.

During the ongoing government shutdown, many federal operations, including public Capitol tours, are suspended until the government reopens. However, Members of Congress are still permitted to lead tours themselves, allowing students and visitors to continue experiencing the U.S. Capitol. 

Both Marion Local Schools and Coldwater Middle School were in Washington, D.C., for a field trip, but many of their planned activities were cancelled due to the shutdown. Congressman Latta was glad to welcome the students and ensure they could still visit the Capitol during their trip. 

“I was glad to welcome students from Marion Local Schools and Coldwater Middle School to the U.S. Capitol. It’s always a privilege to meet young Ohioans who are eager to learn more about our nation’s history and government. Despite the challenges caused by the ongoing shutdown, I was pleased to ensure these students could still experience the people’s House firsthand. Engaging with the next generation of leaders and helping them understand how Congress works is one of the most rewarding parts of my job,” Latta said. 

“Congressman Latta’s Capitol tour was fantastic! I’ve been going on the D.C. trip with the school for years, and this was one of the best tours we’ve had. His knowledge of history was spot on, and the highlight was getting the rare opportunity to step onto the House floor. We’re so grateful to Congressman Latta for personally leading the tour, an experience our students wouldn’t have had otherwise. It’s something both the kids and adults will never forget,” said Rod Pleiman, Marion Local Junior High 7th/8th Grade Social Studies Teacher.  

“We thank Congressman Latta for meeting with us and giving us a tour of the Capitol building. Visiting the Capitol has been a very important part of the student’s DC experience. Thank you for giving us your time,” said Karen Wenning, Teacher and DC Trip Coordinator for Coldwater Middle School.  

(From Bowling Green State University)

A Bowling Green State University alumnus with connections to Hollywood’s biggest stars recently established a scholarship for students in the College of Arts and Sciences to honor his friend and client, actor Jason Momoa.

Since graduating from BGSU five decades ago, distinguished alumnus Jeff B. Witjas ’68 has donated both his time and philanthropy in support of students, valuing the role of higher education in shaping the next generation.

Witjas expanded his support recently, establishing a scholarship in honor of his friend and client, actor, filmmaker and entrepreneur Jason Momoa, who has starred in dozens of films and television shows, including “Aquaman,” “A Minecraft Movie,” “Game of Thrones” and “Chief of War.” Witjas named the scholarship in Momoa’s honor as a birthday gift to him.

“Attending Bowling Green was one of the best decisions I ever made in my life,” said Witjas, a partner and senior vice president at Independent Artist Group, a powerhouse talent agency with offices in Los Angeles and New York. “Having an education is priceless. The world needs more educated people, and there’s nothing better than helping students in their journey to graduation.

“I’ve been blessed to have made some good decisions in my life that have given me the ability to give back to Bowling Green.”

The Jason Momoa Global Scholars Fund at BGSU was established to inspire global citizenship, engagement in activism and foster leadership, qualities Witjas said are akin to Momoa. Witjas said Momoa was very honored by the gesture.

“I’ve known and represented Jason since 2003, when he was beginning his acting career,” Witjas said. “I admire and am proud of him for everything he has accomplished. Jason uses his platform to help his fellow man and make the world a better place for his children and all children. He’s worked very hard to get where he is, and I wanted to give him a gift that would last forever.”

Witjas said Momoa is an environmental advocate and entrepreneur, committed to ocean conservation and the fight against single-use plastic waste. 

To qualify for the scholarship, students must be enrolled full-time, pursuing a major in the College of Arts and Sciences, be in good academic standing and be engaged in globally focused work, such as high-impact environmental research, participating in public service locally and while studying abroad, or volunteering with community organizations.

“It’s going to take a special student each year to earn this scholarship,” Witjas said. “They must have integrity and a genuine consideration for others. An ideal recipient would be someone creative and ambitious who wants to make a lasting impact on the world.”

Witjas has remained engaged with BGSU since graduating in 1968, returning to campus many times to share advice and insight about the entertainment industry with current theater and film students.

The Jason Momoa Global Scholars Fund is the third scholarship Witjas has established at BGSU. He previously established one in honor of his daughter, Rachel Witjas, a BGSU film alumna, and another in memory of his mentor, Jim Hof, a former vice president of University Advancement.

Witjas was inducted into the BGSU Academy of Distinguished Alumni in 2024, one of the University’s highest honors. 

Witjas is widely recognized for his role as the longtime agent of the late Betty White, with whom he had a close personal and professional relationship. A few other present and past clients include Alan Ruck, Ernie Hudson, Beverly D’Angelo, Mary Tyler Moore, Jerry Lewis, Garry Shandling, Bill Maher and Buzz Aldrin.

At BGSU, Witjas was a member of Zeta Beta Tau, was voted Key King for the class of 1968, played on the tennis team and served as vice president of the student body and the first president of the Undergraduate Alumni Association.

(From Tiffin Police Chief David Pauly)

Congratulations, Sergeant Rebecca “Becca” Timm!

Today we proudly celebrate 20 years of dedicated service with the Tiffin Police Department! Sergeant Timm began her career with TPD on October 22, 2005, and for the past two decades, she has served our community with professionalism, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

In March 2025, Becca earned a well-deserved promotion to Sergeant, a reflection of her leadership, integrity, and devotion to her fellow officers and the citizens of Tiffin. She also serves an integral role on our Hostage Negotiation Team, where her calm presence, empathy, and communication skills have proven invaluable in some of the most critical situations.

Throughout her career, Sergeant Timm has received numerous departmental awards and commendations, recognizing her outstanding performance, dedication, and service above and beyond the call of duty.
Becca holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Heidelberg University and a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Tiffin University, blending her educational background and field experience to bring insight, balance, and compassion to every challenge she faces.

Sergeant Timm, your 20 years of service have made a lasting impact on this department and the community you serve. We are grateful for your continued leadership and look forward to your dedicated service for many years to come. Please join us in congratulating Sergeant Rebecca “Becca” Timm on this remarkable milestone!

Chief Pauly

(From Blanchard Valley Health System)

Blanchard Valley Health System (BVHS) has been included in Newsweek’s list of America’s Best-In-State Hospitals 2026. This prestigious award is presented in collaboration with Statista, the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider.

Proximity and access are of the utmost importance when choosing between top hospitals. The America’s Best-In-State Hospitals 2026 ranking was created to identify the top hospitals at the state level. Hospitals from all U.S. states were eligible for the ranking and included in the nationwide survey. Four data sources were used for the evaluation: Hospital Quality Metrics, Hospital Reputation, Patient Experience, and a Statista PROMS Implementation Survey. As a result, the 800 hospitals that scored the highest across these criteria have been included on the list.

BVHS is honored to be recognized on Newsweek’s list of America’s Best-In-State Hospitals 2026. It reinforces that BVHS excels in quality of care, has high patient satisfaction, and is one of the leading hospitals in the nation.

“At BVHS, we don’t strive for recognition simply for the sake of awards,” said Myron D. Lewis, MSW, MBA, FACHE, President and Chief Executive Officer at BVHS. “Each acknowledgment serves as a reflection of the exceptional care and commitment our team provides to those we serve every day. These honors remind us of our responsibility to deliver compassionate, high-quality care and to live out our mission in everything we do.”

Statista publishes hundreds of worldwide industry rankings and company listings with high-profile media partners. This research and analysis service is based on the success of statista.com, the leading data and business intelligence portal that provides statistics, business-relevant data, and various market and consumer studies and surveys.

For more information about the connected care network at BVHS, visit www.bvhealthsystem.org.