The events of 2025 will be discussed - even debated - for decades. Tax issues, business closings and bird flu tested the strength of the area economy. Tragedy tested the human heart. Even the country's sacred rule of law was tested.

Perhaps one event symbolized the area's resilience. No sooner was a beloved church gutted by fire, than a community rallied together, eager to see what healing rises from the ashes. [More]

  As 2025 comes to a close, it's time to remember the moments that stood out on the local sports scene.

And, as is often the case when it comes to the area schools, there are many.

Here are the top 10 local sports stories of 2025.
1. QUEEN OF THE TRACK

In a span of roughly 90 minutes on June 7, Isabella (Izzy) Zahn put on a clinic at Jesse Owens Stadium in Columbus. [More]

CELINA - Having been the subject of so many blessings over the course of his lifetime, Mercer County Sheriff Doug Timmerman felt compelled to give back to the world by donating a kidney to a complete stranger.

Not only did the 53-year-old Timme [More]

CELINA - Shortly after Celina Middle School let out for the day on a Tuesday afternoon, about 15 teens gathered in a classroom and immediately got down to business, demonstrating a singular, preternatural focus as they worked to sharpen their robot's maneuverability and aim in firing a whiffle ball into a receptacle. [More]

ROCKFORD - Balance is important in life, and in the game of basketball balance is crucial. For Parkway, it was a balanced effort that led them to a big 45-33 win Monday over Delphos St. John's in Midwest Athletic Conference play. Seven of the nine Panthers that played scored, and five of the seven scored five or more points en route to the win. [More]

CELINA - A structure fire broke out at a single-story home just outside of Celina Sunday night, fully engulfing it and burning into the morning hours.

A call came in at about 11:30 p.m. Sunday for a structure fire at 7568 Riley Road with one occupant still inside. The home was fully engulfed. [More]