Company executives and politicians were on hand to open the expansion of International Paper’s Kenton facility Monday morning, but it was the 650 employees who were in the spotlight. The company announced 19 months ago it would double the size of its Kenton facility and create 125-plus jobs for the Kenton area.

Ben Nelson is joining Ohio Insurance and Financial Services, LLC (OIFS) as vice president of marketing and commercial operations, announced Gary Nelson, president.

The Tractor Supply Co. store in Kenton will host activities for families and their pets, including pet adoptions, Saturday, Sept. 19 as part of Pet Appreciation Week, Sept. 16-20.

TUESDAY, SEPT. 8 Hardin County Airport Authority – 4:30 p.m., airport

Nate Mellott, (left) and Shane Rodabaugh stand in front of the business they opened this week in Forest called Flooring 2 You. Located at 106 N. Warner Street, the new store offers customers a variety of carpet, vinyl, hardwood and tile laminate flooring covers and installation.

FINDLAY — Recruitment is underway to enroll participants in the next Small Business Development Program offered by the HHWP Community Action Commission. The program consists of thirteen sessions held from 5:45-8:45 p.m. on Thursdays beginning Sept. 24 in The Family Center located at 1800 N. Blanchard St., Findlay.

Marshall Wolowicz of the Kenton branch of the financial services firm Edward Jones, recently received the firm’s service award for his 25 years of hard work and enthusiasm as an Edward Jones financial advisor.

When the people of Japan say “good morning” to their friends, they use the word “ohio” and on Wednesday, Hardin County said “ohio” to their new friends from Japan. A large crowd of guests from Hardin County, the state of Ohio, including Lt. Gov. Mary Taylor, and from Japan met at the new Sekisui plant south of Kenton....

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 2 Taylor Creek Township trustees – 8:30 p.m., township hall