Regional news

A public meeting has been announced for September 29 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at 418 N. Central Ave., Lima, to allow public comment on the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) document.

The CEDS is a draft created by economic development leaders from Allen, Putnam, Hardin, Van Wert and Hancock counties to outline a regional economic development strategy to help create growth and foster job creation and investment throughout the region.

To learn more about the CEDS, contact Allen Economic Development Group at 419-222-7706.

FROM WWW.AGRI.OHIO.GOV__Ohio is experiencing an increase in the spotted lanternfly, an invasive pest that is under quarantine in several counties. The lanternfly can do damage to grapes, hops, stone fruits and other agriculturally important plants. According to the Ohio Department of Agriculture, spotted lanternfly has been reported but not confirmed in Hardin County as of August 2025.

A management guide is provided HERE.

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Village to install historical marker and mural, will host 2026 grand opening

By Paula Pyzik Scott

On a beautiful Wednesday morning in September, a baseball diamond in Alger, Ohio has a timeless quality. With the sun shining and crickets and birds sounding tranquil notes, you can imagine the generations of ball players who have stirred the dust here.

MEDIA RELEASE__State Wildlife Officer Jason Porinchok, assigned to Putnam County, received a call about groundhogs that fell into a dry cistern and became trapped. Officer Porinchok advised the caller to place an object in the cistern long enough to reach to the top and leave it overnight. Groundhogs can climb trees and Officer Porinchok expected they could climb out of the cistern on another object. The strategy was successful and the groundhogs escaped unharmed. 

SEPT 12 MEDIA RELEASE__The United Way of Hardin County invites the community to its annual Bourbon Ball on Saturday, October 25, from 7:00 -10:00 p.m. at the Varsity Venue in Kenton. This year’s theme, A Night at the Races, promises an evening of Derby-inspired fun, elegance and entertainment.

Guests are encouraged to dress in their Derby best—think wide-brimmed hats, bow ties, suspenders and fancy dresses—to fully embrace the festive spirit. The evening will feature live music, heavy hors d’oeuvres, bourbon cocktails and more, creating a lively atmosphere to enjoy with friends and neighbors.

SEPT 10 MEDIA RELEASE__The United Way of Hardin County is proud to announce the official renaming of its beloved annual fundraiser as the "Linda Garmon Memorial Mini Football Drop" in honor of long-time supporter and community champion, Linda Garmon.

Linda’s enduring dedication to the mission of United Way and her enthusiastic support of this annual event made a lasting impact on Hardin County. For years, she worked tirelessly to promote community involvement, encourage charitable giving, and ensure that local programs received the support they needed to thrive.

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