TUESDAY, DEC. 26 Southeast Hardin Northwest Union Joint Fire District – 6 p.m., fire station; special meeting to discuss year-end activity

Friday Vandalism was reported at Conkle Florist, 856 S. Main St. Damage to a vehicle was reported at 614 Robinson Ave.

In late November each year, Neil Hipsher puts on his bright red suit, pulls on his boots and becomes Santa Claus. The transformation from a retired Rockwell employee to the spirit of Christmas is instant.

A snowy owl perches on top of a utility pole near Byhalia in northern Union County on Friday afternoon and seems to be watching the holiday shoppers scurrying by on Ohio 31. The weather is expected to turn cold with snow over the holiday weekend, which may be more to the liking of the wise, white bird. Times photo/Dan Robinson

The Hardin County Agricultural Society met Thursday, Dec. 21 at the Plaza Inn in Mount Victory for their January board meeting and holiday dinner. Nineteen directors and 30 guests were present. Craig Stump, president, called the meeting to order.

Gary Lee Kearns II, South Point – speeding 39 mph in a 25 mph zone, fined $25.

I admit that Christmas is often not my favorite season. As a pastor, sometimes Christmas is something to be survived rather than celebrated. My family has always considered cynicism as one of our spiritual gifts, and our attitudes about Christmas reflect that.

Pastor Anita VanBuskirk is inviting everyone to Kenton Full Gospel Church, 129 N. Wayne St., this Sunday, Dec. 24 at 10:30 a.m. as they celebrate “the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ!” Everyone will be receiving a gift and children will receive stockings filled with candy and toys right after the morning service.

A new activity that the Hardin Northern FFA is doing this school year is hosting monthly elementary ag lessons. In October, the kindergarten classes visited and had the opportunity to learn about how pumpkins grow, different types, and the many uses of pumpkins.

COLUMBUS – Introducing students to potential careers in agriculture is the goal of two major projects made possible by the Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation’s Fisher Fund for Lifelong Learning. The purpose is to introduce students to and prepare them for careers in agriculture, food and natural resources.