The Blanchard River fell below flood stage at Findlay early today.  The river, swollen by heavy rains on Saturday, crested at 11.83 feet Sunday morning. It fell below the 11-foot flood stage early today.

Extensive flooding and heavy rains have affected corn fields across the state and left growers contending with the possibility of lost or damaged crops. An Ohio State University Extension agronomist says the flooding and ponding could kill some corn crops.

Findlay police officer Aaron C. Flechtner has been identified as the patrolman who shot and killed Jeremy Linhart during a traffic stop on June 9 after another officer, Andrew Rudnik, stopped the car Linhart was riding in.  Flechtner joined the Police Department on Jan. 5, 2004 and is a field training officer and is a member of the crisis intervention team and special assignment unit; an instructor for the Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate program; and has tactical and active shooter training.  Rudnik, 25, joined the Police Department on Nov. 4, 2013.  Both officers are on paid administrative leave.
 

Jeffery Lynn Simon says he is pulling out of the race for mayor of Findlay because of his health.  The 71 year old Siimon filed to run as an independent on April 14.  He also ran for mayor as an independent in 1999, but withdrew from the race that September.  His withdrawal means Mayor Lydia Mihalik, a Republican, will have no opposition for re-election in November.

All of Park Avenue in Fostoria between North Countyline Street and Lincoln Avenue will be closed to through traffic for 45 days beginning Tuesday for replacement  of a bridge.  The one lane bridge was built in 1970.  The project is a result of a joint effort between Fostoria, Wood County Engineers and Ohio Department of Transportation.

The University of Findlay announced Brandi Laurita as the University’s new athletic director.  Laurita has served as UF’s assistant athletic director and senior women’s administrator since 2008.  Laurita replaces Steven Rackley, who resigned earlier this year to become Alma College’s athletic director.

Reverend Todd Dominique has been assigned to serve as the new pastor for Fostoria St. Wendelin parish.  Dominique will be taking over after the retirement of Reverend Nicholas Weibl.  He will be the head of both the parish and St. Wendelin Catholic School/  Dominique’s day of service will be Wednesday.

Governor John Kasich is expected to formally announce his plans for the 2016 presidential race on July 21st.  Senior advisers say he will formally join the crowded Republican primary field at an announcement set for Ohio State University. There are more than a dozen Republicans already in the race.