(From the Bluffton Fall Festival)

The Bluffton community’s 19th annual Fall Festival, with many family-oriented activities, takes place throughout the community on Saturday, Sept. 28th, with most activities occurring between 10 am and 3 pm. The locations of festivities include the Downtown Bluffton shops, Maple Crest Senior Living Village, the Schumacher Homestead (Swiss Community Historical Society), Bluffton Hospital, NWO Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, the Farmer’s Market next to Citizen’s National Bank, the Gazebo at Bluffton Presbyterian Church, Bluffton High School Gymnasium and Cars & Coffee at Masterpiece Signs.

All events are free unless otherwise noted, and free parking is available at all locations. More details can be found below and at blufftonfallfestival.com.

Here’s the schedule – all events take place on the 28th from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. unless otherwise noted:

Bluffton High School Gym

51st Annual Bluffton Crafts Festival, food trucks, booths

Downtown Bluffton

• A Farmers’ Market takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 in the Citizens National Bank (102 S. Main) parking lot
• Cars & Coffee will take place from 8-11 at Masterpiece Signs (902 N. Main)
• Bluffton Discovery Days sponsored by the Bluffton Chamber of Commerce – visit Bluffton businesses for a chance to win prizes!
• Entertainment at the Bluffton Presbyterian Church gazebo from Noon-1pm (112 N. Main)

Maple Crest Senior Living Village, 700 Maple Crest Ct.

Annual Antique Tractor Show, Kiddie tractor pull with registration 12:30-1:00 p.m., pull starts 1:00 p.m., Fishing Derby (bait & poles provided), 2-3 p.m., Baked good items and food for sale, free hearing screenings by Hometown Hearing Center.

Bluffton Hospital, 139 Garau St.

Complimentary Kona Ice Treats, Coffee Truck ($), Kiddie Train, Face painting, Fairytale and Superhero Characters, and interactive activities for kids.

NWO Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, 132 Garau St.

Fall Themed Games & Prizes!

Swiss Community Historical Society (Schumacher Homestead), 8350 Bixel Road (open 10a-4p)

Farm Animals, dulcimers and fiddles, kid’s games and activities, wagon rides, horse plowing, blacksmithing, corn-shelling, bread making, fishing in Riley Creek, needlecrafts, popcorn popping, woodworking, demonstrations, and food for sale ($)

For updates and complete information on the Bluffton Fall Festival visit the website at blufftonfallfestival.com, or on facebook.com/BlufftonFallFest.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held for the new first responder training facility in Findlay.

The STRICT Center (Simulated Tactical Response & Incident Command Training) is located behind Fire Station 4 on County Road 236.

The event also included a 9/11 Memorial Ceremony with a tolling of the bell which you can see in the video below.  

The STRICT Center facility includes two structures; a training building with a search house and a burn building.

“An exciting aspect of the STRICT Center is the ability for our safety agencies to train together,” said Fire Chief Josh Eberle.

“At almost every emergency, there is a fire department, law enforcement and an EMS component all working alongside each other.  The STRICT Center will allow that joint training to happen on a regular basis.”

Chief Eberle says the community has been extremely supportive of the project and more than half of the cost of the facility being covered through grants and donations.

(From the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office)

LOST AND FOUND AT THE HANCOCK COUNTY FAIR

The items listed below were found and turned into the Sheriff’s Building during the fair (August 27th – September 2nd).

Pink backpack

Paw Patrol crocs

Wallet

Pokémon cards

Leopard print bag

Please contact our office if any of the items listed above may be yours. You must be able to prove the item is yours before claiming.

Hancock County Sheriff’s Office Property Room: 419-424-7411

(From the Fostoria Economic Development Corporation)

Ignite 419 is your opportunity to connect with small business leaders, gain invaluable insights, and elevate your professional journey. As the only forum in Northwest Ohio where local professionals from diverse fields can directly engage with successful small business owners and leaders, Ignite 419 is designed to provide a truly customized experience for each attendee.

What Makes Ignite419 Unique? This isn’t just another conference – Ignite 419 puts you at the center of the conversation. Our panel discussions are crafted around the questions you bring, allowing you to engage directly with experts who have walked in your shoes. You’ll hear from CFOs, business professors, CPAs, HR professionals, employment attorneys, marketing gurus, and fellow entrepreneurs who have built and sold successful businesses. This is your chance to get real-world answers to your most pressing business challenges.

Event Highlights:

• Wildfire Leadership Training: Start your day with a powerful workshop designed to help you unlock your mission, discover your unique strengths, and elevate your impact in your organization.
• Keynote Speaker: Be inspired by Meg Adams, an entrepreneur, professor, and TEDx speaker, who will share how storytelling can be a transformative tool for building community and growing your business.
• Panel Discussions: Engage with a diverse group of professionals in afternoon panels tailored to your questions and interests.
• Professional Perks: Enjoy free headshots with a local photographer, access to a business lounge for those pressing work needs and end the day with a networking hour over refreshments and cocktails.

Meet Our Ignite 419 Panelists:

• Ashley Barger – Founder of Do Some Good Marketing, LLC
• Bill Beach – Attorney at Law, RCO Law
• Ron Burns – Founder of Corporate One Benefits and Investor
• Steve Dandurand – Director of Finance, City of Fostoria
• Kyle Elfring – Sr. HR Manager / HR Business Partner for Church & Dwight
• Andy Faber – CPA, Assistant Professor of Accounting at Tiffin University
• Sarah Foltz – Executive Director, Hancock Historical Museum and Former GM at Findlay Brewing Company
• Madison Geroski – Sole Proprietor of Madison Paul Boutique and Merry by Madison
• Marisa Huss – Director of Marketing, Seneca Regional Chamber of Commerce and Destination Seneca County
• Chris Keller – Director of Strategic Initiatives, Findlay Hancock Economic Development Office; Owner/member of Oler’s Bar and Grill, Details Auto Spa, and a property investment company
• Vickie Kent – Ohio Region Human Resources Partners, Carmeuse Lime & Stone
• Katie Keifer – CPA, Sielschott, Walsh, Keifer, Regula & Sherer (SWKR) CPAs
• Blair Lane – Senior Commercial Lender, Premier Bank
• Les Lipski – Former CFO, Callies Performance Products
• GiGi Mason – Director of Human Resources, Ohio Logistics
• Kate Mennel – Physician Practice Manager, NWO Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
• Weston Reinbolt – President and Investment Consultant at Financial Design Agency of Ohio
• Julie Reinhart – Branding and Communications Manager, Mennel Corporate Headquarters
• Kati Thompson – Economic Development Director, City of Bowling Green; Owner of Eden Fashion Boutique
• Jason Yoakam – President, Yoakam Communications Group

Don’t Miss Out – Register Today!

Ignite 419 will take place on Monday, October 21, at Stacy’s Place in Fostoria. Brought to you by the Fostoria Chamber of Commerce and Fostoria Economic Development, this event is your gateway to growth and connection in the Northwest Ohio business community. Registration is open through October 1st. Visit ignite419.com to explore the full agenda, learn more about our panelists, and secure your spot today. Or call the FEDC office at 419-435-7789.

Ignite 419: Where Your Questions Ignite Change

(From the University of Findlay)

The University of Findlay is celebrating Homecoming 2024 from September 26 to 29 with the theme of “Together We Will” to celebrate the strong roots and bright future of UF.

“Together we will reconnect with old friends,” said President Katherine Fell, Ph.D. “Together we will make great new memories. And together we will show support for the University. We have a lot to celebrate.”

The Homecoming 2024 activities will feature many beloved Findlay traditions, along with some new activities this year.

“Please join us, wearing your favorite Orange and Black apparel, for the variety of events throughout the long weekend,” Fell said. “The unity and commitment of our friends, alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and students to UF are what make the Oiler Family strong.”

Additional information and registration for events can be found on the Homecoming and Family Weekend webpage: www.findlay.edu/homecoming.

Among the events open to the public:

THURSDAY, SEPT. 26

Pop by the Rock

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. | Spirit Rock in front of Morey Hall The Spirit Rock is ready and waiting for students, alumni, and friends to make their mark. Pop by for a selfie, treats, and bring a marker to leave an Oiler Nation Homecoming message. Cost is free.

Soccer Games

1 p.m. | DeHaven Field | Women’s Findlay Oilers vs. Lake Erie College

4 p.m. | DeHaven Field | Men’s Findlay Oilers vs. Cedarville

Cost is free.

College of Education Speaker

7-8 p.m. | Old Main, Ritz Auditorium Justin Dennen ’08, MAE ’21, EdD ’24, will share his experiences as a teacher and the importance of developing better relationships through restorative justice practices. Cost is free.

Bonfire Bash: Flames, Festivities, and Fun

7-9 p.m. | DeHaven Soccer Stadium

Live music by the LADS band with Tim Burkart, professor of pharmacy, plus a bonfire and activities. Cost is free.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 27

Class of 1974 50th Reunion

4 – 7:30 p.m. | Virginia B. Gardner Fine Arts Pavilion Members of the Class of 1974 and their guests are invited to a special reunion gathering with dinner, Golden Diploma presentation, and campus tour. Fee and registration required.

Oiler Palooza

7 – 9 p.m. | Lawn in front of Center for Student Life & College of Business (CBSL) A student, family, and community event featuring live music by Thumbtack Mechanics,plus games and inflatables, with fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Cost is free, but food is available for purchase.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 28

Heart Healthy 5K and 1.5-mile Fun Walk

7 – 8:45 a.m. Check-in | In front of Old Main

9 a.m. shotgun start | Griffith Memorial Arch

American Pharmacists Association Academy of Student Pharmacists is hosting the ninth annual 5K and fun walk. A portion of event proceeds will be donated to the American Heart Association. Fee and registration required.

Alumni Association Annual Awards Breakfast

9 a.m.| Winebrenner Building, TLB Auditorium

Enjoy breakfast with alumni from all over the nation while congratulating the 2024 Distinguished Alumni, and recipients of the Old Main Award, the Gold Medallion, and the Arch Award. We’ll also honor the class of 1974 for their Golden Anniversary (50 years). Fee and registration required.

Oiler Tailgate

Noon – 1:30 p.m. | Donnell Stadium

Enjoy a casual, family-friendly tailgate with picnic food, games, and live music by Thumbtack Mechanics before UF takes on the Hillsdale Chargers. Cost is free.

Football Game – Findlay Oilers vs. Hillsdale Chargers

2 p.m. | Donnell Stadium

Cheer on the UF football team at the annual Homecoming game. The 2024 Homecoming Court will be announced, along with the 2024 Distinguished Alumni awardees. Tickets can be purchased at the gate.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 29

Worship Service

10 a.m. | Center for Student Life and College of Business atrium Founded in Christian faith, the University is proud to continue the tradition of providing a Worship Service and sharing the Word. The Thursday Night Live Worship Band and Revive Worship Band will come together to lead in worship.

Brunch after Worship Service

11 a.m. | Henderson Dining Hall Fee required.

To learn more about specific events and speakers, or to register to attend any of the events, visit the Homecoming webpage. Homecoming events and information are also available on the Oiler Mobile App, which is free to download in the App Store and Play Store.

(ONN) – Ohio’s attorney general says he’s looking into immigrant populations in Ohio’s towns and cities.

Attorney General Dave Yost is reviewing legal challenges of what he says is caused by a quote ‘influx of migrants in communities.’

He’s pointing to certain federal regulation.

His office says the move comes in response to concerns of surging migrant populations, specifically in Springfield, Ohio.

He argues the large waves of migrants are straining the community’s educational, medical and economic systems.

(From the Findlay Police Department)

The Findlay Police Department investigated an injury crash involving a Jeep crashing into a house.

It happened in the 700 block of West Foulke Avenue at around 4:30 Tuesday afternoon.

Police say the driver of the Jeep, Shelly Moore, 58, of Findlay, was taken to Blanchard Valley Hospital with injuries that are not life-threatening.

Details of the crash are below from the police department report.

UNIT 1 was traveling southbound in the southbound lane of travel on Fox St. approaching the intersection of W. Foulke Ave.

UNIT 1 experienced a medical issue and veered off the right side of the roadway, crossed W. Foulke Ave. UNIT 1 continued southbound and left the roadway of W. Foulke Ave. and traveled through the yard of 701 W Foulke Ave, struck landscaping and a large boulder causing the vehicle to flip onto the driver’s side.

The vehicle continued into on its path and struck the northeast corner of the residence of 701 W. Foulke Ave. where it finally stopped.

The driver of UNIT 1 was transported for evaluation of injuries and the vehicle sustained disabling damage and was towed from the scene by D&D towing.

(From the Alzheimer’s Association Northwest Ohio Chapter)

The 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Findlay/Hancock County will take place on Saturday, September 14.

It will be held at 50 North at 339 East Melrose Avenue in Findlay beginning at 8:30 a.m. and include The Alzheimer’s Association Northwest Ohio Chapter, volunteers, Walk teams and community participants.

The purpose of the walk is to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research programs.

At the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s supports the free local programs and services that help families facing the disease today. It also supports research to drive advancements that give these families more time through treatments.

To register for the walk click on alz.org/nwohio/walk.

(From the City of Findlay)

On Wednesday, September 11, 2024, Crystal Avenue from Scott Avenue to Winfield Avenue will be closed from 7am-4pm for sanitary sewer repairs.

Motorists are advised to avoid this area.

See other road construction projects in Findlay by clicking here.

(From the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation)

We’ve heard time and time again that finding affordable, family-friendly activities is a challenge in Hancock County.

The Community Foundation is proud to provide Fun for All to help bridge the gap.

In 2023, more than 10,000 people attended Fun for All Events.

So far in 2024, more than 9,790 people attended Fund for All Events.

We’re looking forward to continuing this program!

See below for the September schedule and details. Events will be added as they become available.

7 – Findlay Young Professional Summer Tailgate
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Crawford Street

7 – Intergenerational Event
12 – 2 p.m.
50 North
Registration required: Find Yourself at 50 North, Findlay, Ohio

11 – Sgraffito Dish
7-8 p.m.
Findlay Art League
**Cost is reduced, $10 per person, registration required**
Register: Findlay Art League or 419-422-7847

12 – Sgraffito Dish
7-8 p.m.
Findlay Art League
**Cost is reduced, $10 per person, registration required**

12 – Teen Mini Golf (Family and Children First Council)
6-8 p.m.
Anchored Sports

14 – Family Fun Event
1-4 p.m.
Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation
Family Fun For All Saturday | Facebook

25 – Wheel/Bowl
7-8:30 p.m.
Findlay Art League
**Cost is reduced, $35 per person, registration required**
Register: Findlay Art League or 419-422-7847

26 – Wheel/Bowl
7-8:30 p.m.
Findlay Art League
**Cost is reduced, $35 per person, registration required**
Register: Findlay Art League or 419-422-7847