Good morning, Wooster.

Ohio's minimum wage will increase to $11 for non-tipped workers and to $5.50 for tipped workers starting Jan.

1, 2026, a 2.8% jump from the current rate according to the Ohio Department of Commerce. Large businesses with annual receipts over $405,000 will pay the new rate while smaller companies and 14- and 15-year-olds continue to earn $7.25 per hour — the rate remaining unchanged.

The Pregnancy Care Center of Wayne County opened a new clinic in Orrville at 1020 W.

High St. that offers free and confidential care for unplanned pregnancies and STDs, and the Orrville Area Chamber of Commerce along with community members celebrated the opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 19.

Wooster Community Hospital Home Health was named a Superior Performer by Strategic Healthcare Programs for patient experience—staff completed over 12,000 patient home visits in 2024 serving patients in Wayne, Holmes and Ashland counties.

Midseason rankings in Wayne/Holmes County show Dalton as the top volleyball team with a 16-1 record and key player Sara Giebel — followed by Hiland at 15-1, Wooster at 13-3, Norwayne at 14-3, and Central Christian at 13-3.

League matchups may affect the final standings as each team relies on standout performances to improve their position for the postseason.

Wayne Center for the Arts Fall Festival

11 AM – 3 PM — Wayne Center for the Arts — Free entry — Celebrate autumn with hands-on art activities and live demonstrations for all ages.

Gardens Galore Fundraiser

7-11 p.m. — Wooster — $25 ticket — Experience an evening of gourmet treats and impactful stories while supporting a great cause against domestic violence.

Howl-O-Ween Yappy Hour

5-8 p.m. — Troutman Vineyards — $10 with drink or $5 for soda — Celebrate the final Yappy Hour of the year with live music and food truck delights in a festive atmosphere.

Grape Stomp Wine 5K Run/Walk

4-6 p.m. — Lincoln Way Vineyards — $40 — Enjoy a scenic 5K through vineyards followed by a complimentary wine pour.

Downtown Wooster Fall Shop Hop

All day — Main Street Wooster — Free entry — Enjoy the cool fall weather while browsing the local downtown shops.