(From Blanchard Valley Health System)

Recently, Sarah Stine, RN, and Peyton Kern, RN, represented Blanchard Valley Health System on the Flag City Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. As recipients of the Nursing Congress Honor Flight Scholarship, they had the opportunity to accompany veterans on a trip to see the sights in our nation’s capital.

Since the scholarship’s founding in 2017, 21 recipients have served as Honor Flight Guardians. Thank you to everyone who helped make this a special day for our veterans.

Our long-term care facility, Birchaven, also offers programs geared toward veterans. If you and your family want a VIP tour of senior living options, please call 419.424.3000. To learn more about our connected care network, please visit bvhealthsystem.org/connect.

Pictured (1): Gary Bockbrader and Sarah Stine, RN, at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Pictured (2): Denny Garlic, Peyton Kern, RN, and Barry Baker at the Women in Military Service for America Memorial.

(From the City of Findlay)

On July 15, 2025, Lima Avenue between Main Street and Western Avenue will be reduced to one lane between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to allow for a water valve replacement project.

Traffic will be maintained with flaggers, but motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to seek alternate routes if possible.

The City of Findlay will provide updates on the project schedule and traffic conditions as new information becomes available.

(From the City of Findlay)

You’re invited to join Mayor Christina Muryn for the 2025 Playball with the Mayor event on July 16 featuring the Flag City Sluggers!

Youth will participate in drill stations followed by a softball game at the Miracle Field.

T-shirts will be given to participants courtesy of the United States Conference of Mayors.

After the Playball game, head over to the Sluggers game where admission will be free thanks to The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation‘s Fun for All series of free community events.

Tickets are first come, first served.

See more details in the flyer below. 

We hope you’ll join us for a night of free community fun!

A man who was a Findlay High School graduate and prominent businessman in Findlay for many years has died.

Jim Shrader was 87 years old.

You can read his obituary from Kirkpatrick-Behnke Funeral Home below.

James C. “Jim” Shrader, September 20, 1937 – July 11, 2025 of Findlay, Ohio, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ—reuniting joyfully in Heaven with his beloved wife, Sue, and cherished grandson, Gregory. With renewed body and spirit, Jim is now dancing on streets of gold, finally face-to-face with the Savior he faithfully served throughout his life.

Born in North Jackson on September 20, 1937, Jim was the son of the late C.J. and Florence Shrader, who preceded him in death, along with his sister, Barbara Heamon.

On June 13, 1959, he married the love of his life, Sue Ann Kamerer, who preceded him in death on October 6, 2018. Jim is survived by three children: Chris (Terri) Shrader of Fairhope, Alabama; Jeff (Elsa) Shrader; and Carolyn (David) Copus, both of Findlay, Ohio. He is also survived by five grandchildren and one step-grandson: Jacob (Meghan Holst) of Marietta, GA; Austin Shrader of Denver, CO; Jonathan (Emily) Shrader of New Albany, OH; Graham (Kenidi), Hunter (Skyler), and Tyler Copus, all of Findlay; and one great-grandson, Callum Copus.

Jim graduated from Findlay High School in 1955 and earned a business degree from Bowling Green State University. After graduation, he proudly served in the U.S. Army, stationed at Fort Knox, KY, where he achieved the rank of Captain.

Following his military service, Jim entered into partnership and became President of Findlay International, a company that sold farming equipment, Scouts, semi-trucks, and lawn and snow equipment until 2001. He later joined Findlay Ford as a salesman—working for his fellow Rotarian Stan Kujawa and later the Reineke family—continuing to serve customers with integrity and joy until 2024.

Jim’s greatest pride and joy was his family. Summers were filled with unforgettable memories at Platte Lake and later at the family cottage in Petoskey, Michigan—days of tubing, sailing, dune climbing, and evening bonfires. He especially loved winter and skied well into his early 70s. Jim also cherished time spent on Little Traverse Bay, polishing Petoskey stones and being active in the Bay View Methodist Association. Whether at the family cottage or at home—always organized by his beloved “Susie”—family gatherings were the heartbeat of his life.

Jim’s life was marked by unwavering faith, servant leadership, and a deep compassion for others. A lifelong member of St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, Jim truly embodied the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.” His answer to those in need was always a heartfelt and enthusiastic “yes.”

A devoted Rotarian, Jim served as Past President of the Findlay Rotary Club and as District Governor. He participated in multiple humanitarian missions to Central America and Nigeria, where he courageously delivered polio vaccines.

At home, Jim served in numerous roles—never for recognition, but always with purpose. He offered rides, visited the sick, and supported countless causes. He served as Vice President and Board Member (later Emeritus) of the Blanchard Valley Health Foundation, helping to facilitate the fundraising for the new patient pavilion. He also served as Chairman of the Winebrenner Board, overseeing the expansion of the nursing care facility to its Eastern Woods location. Jim played key roles in the MESA Committee, the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce (as Past Chairman), and was a founding member of the original Art Partnership/Festival Committee—recruited, of course, because he had a truck and a heart ready to help.

Jim often said, “I’m just ordinary, but when you put me with others, we become extraordinary.” He lived that belief every day.

Jim also had a gift for music and a passion for singing. He was a founding member of the Millstream Singers, and most recently sang in the St. Mark’s and the 50 North choir.

He led by example. A man of humility and generosity, Jim quietly made an indelible mark on his community for over six decades. He mentored others, shared wisdom freely, and lived out the values of faith, integrity, compassion, and service.

Jim leaves behind a legacy of kindness, purpose, and faith. He is survived by his loving family and countless friends and Rotarians whose lives are better because they knew him.

He didn’t just talk about giving back—he lived it. And in doing so, Jim Shrader made the world, especially his corner of it, a more caring and hopeful place.

The family would like to extend its greatest gratitude to his home health caregiver, Kellie from Cornerstone Caregivers, his family physician, Dr. Mark Fox, his cardiologist, Dr. Gregory Gerschutz, Nurse Practitioner Bridget Miller in Urology and all nurses who cared for him at Blanchard Valley Hospital, Bluffton Hospital Swing Unit and Bridge In-Patient Hospice.

Visitation will be held Monday, July 14, 2025, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Kirkpatrick Behnke Funeral Home. Additional visitation will take place from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, officiated by Pastor Dan Metzger. A graveside service will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s memory to:

Findlay Rotary Club, 2447 Tiffin Avenue # 208, Findlay, Ohio 45840

Blanchard Valley Health Foundation, 1900 South Main Street, Findlay, OH 45840

50 North, 339 East Melrose Avenue, Findlay, OH 45840

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of James C. “Jim” Shrader, please visit our Tree Store.

(Above picture courtesy of Kirkpatrick Behnke Funeral Home)

(From Bowling Green State University)

As the long-awaited summer blockbuster “Superman” opens in theaters today, July 11, three recent Bowling Green State University graduates are adding the film to their resumes.

Josh Newberg ’22, Jay Boyden ’23 and Jimar Curry ’23 are each credited in the new movie as set production assistants. Production took place in downtown Cleveland, where all three had the chance to aid behind the scenes in the making of the DC Studios picture.

The connection to the major project started when Newberg, originally from Lebanon, Ohio, answered a call from a number he didn’t recognize, only to be offered a career-changing opportunity.

“It’s actually pretty wild how it all happened,” Newberg said. “Just through things I worked on in the past, I’ve networked with so many people, and in a lot of films, you’ll work with a lot of the same people you’ve worked with before.

“One day, I got a random call from one of the assistant directors of ‘Superman’ asking if I’d like to join because someone I had worked with in the past had recommended me. It was a very unexpected call, but I said I would move or do whatever I needed to be part of it.”

As a production assistant, Newberg said almost every day was different, whether it was helping with lighting, performing location lock-ups, shuttling between various parts of the set, assisting with background generally or offering a hand whenever necessary.

When the film needed some extra help along the way, however, Newberg turned to two fellow BGSU graduates with expertise in the field.

Curry, a Columbus-based videographer who, like Newberg, earned a Bachelor of Arts in film from BGSU, said he was floored when Newberg asked him to be on set for a blockbuster movie.

“I was shocked – I couldn’t believe he was serious,” Curry said. “I initially didn’t know he had been working on ‘Superman’ at the time, but as soon as I got it cleared, I turned around and said ‘Yes, absolutely.’”

All three credited their time at the University for playing a key role in their early careers.

Boyden, a visual communication technology graduate from Hudson, Ohio, who is now a video media producer professionally, said a student internship with the BGSU Office of Marketing and Brand Strategy helped him map a professional course while he was still an undergraduate.

“A big, pivotal moment in my career was working in the Office of Marketing and Brand Strategy,” Boyden said. “I was guided through options of what I can do with video, editing and media in general. It gave me confidence that no matter where I end up, I have these foundations and structures that I learned from BGSU.”

Hailing from Cleveland, Curry recalled learning about the effort required to make films during his time at BGSU, which fittingly played out in real life as the trio became production assistants on an internationally recognized project.

“I remember learning about the different roles on a set in my classes, so it really made sense knowing what our roles and what our tasks were,” Curry said. “Having that knowledge made it much easier to excel in a community of a big production like that.”

Newberg, whose credits also include “The Bikeriders” and “Alto Knights,” said the best part of working in the film industry is the sense of community that each production develops along the way.

Making films is a major effort filled with the cast and crew working together to create something memorable, an aspect of the industry Newberg said he was drawn to from the start of his BGSU film classes.

“In my first short narrative class, I saw that I really loved the community of the film world,” Newberg said. “Everybody gets assigned a role and everybody contributes because films are such big things that require a lot of effort, and I think that the idea that one person creates a story idea and everybody jumps in to help that person achieve the same goal is just the coolest thing, and that goes for short films, feature films, low-budget movies and big-budget movies.”

At the premiere of ‘Superman’ in Cincinnati, the ending credits included their names, a surreal experience for three people who love making movies.

Boyden said seeing their names credited at the end of the film is a moment he’ll never forget.

“We got full-body chills,” Boyden said. “We all shook hands and just said congratulations because it was such a big a moment for ourselves, our families and our careers. We haven’t been able to wipe the smiles off our faces.”

(From Children’s Mentoring Connection of Hancock County)

Imagine what your child could experience with a mentor by their side!

At Children’s Mentoring Connection, we’re proud of what our mentors and mentees have accomplished over the last 6 months—and we’re just getting started!

From launching our very first CMC Camp, to opening The Fun Shop where kids have built bird feeders, cornhole boards, and candy dispensers—our program is filled with meaningful, hands-on learning and unforgettable memories.

Other adventures have included:

-Behind-the-scenes tour at the Fire Station

-Special visit to Dr. Anderson Family Dentistry

-Swimming outings

-Tour of One Energy’s wind turbine facility

-Crafts, games, walks, and more!

And the best part?

All of this is done while being matched with a dedicated mentor who offers encouragement, support, and guidance—someone who is truly invested in helping your child grow and thrive.

Why mentoring matters:

-Builds confidence and communication

-Encourages academic success

-Provides a stable, caring adult relationship

-Exposes kids to new places and possibilities

We are now accepting new applications for children ages 6–14, especially those being raised by single parents, grandparents, or other caregivers. Our program is completely free.

Findlay, OH

Call us today at 419-424-9752

Learn more or apply at cmchancock.org

Help your child grow, explore, and thrive— one meaningful connection at a time.

(From the Hancock County Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS)

Hancock County ADAMHS is pleased to announce that we will be hosting the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services 40-hour Peer Recovery Supporter (PRS) Training, taking place in Findlay, Ohio!

October 20 – 24th, 2025 from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. This training will be held at NAMI Hancock County, 305 W. Hardin St. Findlay, OH.

 The OhioMHAS 40-hour PRS Training is a live, interactive training that teaches prospective Certified Peer Recovery Supporters (CPRS) in recovery from a mental health and/or substance use issue to use their experience to help their Peers in recovery. Prospective CPRS will engage in role-play activities and learn the skills necessary to offer high quality Peer Support. Upon successful completion of PRS training, perspective CPRS will be eligible to apply for Adult Peer Recovery Supporter Certification in Ohio. To attend training, you must be personally in recovery from a mental health and/or substance use issue and be willing to share your personal story appropriately in a group setting. Please note that having a friend or family member in recovery will not qualify you to attend this training.

The OhioMHAS Bureau of Recovery Supports is pleased to announce that incarcerated individuals, as well as those on probation and parole, can be certified as peer supporters. Previously these individuals were able to complete peer supporter training, but not able to complete the certification process while in custody or under court sanctions. This change in interpretation of Ohio Administrative Code Rule 5122-29-15.1 expands access to meaningful employment for more individuals upon release. Certain disqualifying offenses remain for prospective Peer Supporters. More information on disqualifying offenses can be found HERE.

For more information and to register for training, please contact:

 Amy Beach

adamhs@yourpathtohealth.org or (P) 419-424-1985

(From the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library)

The Findlay-Hancock County Public Library is offering the following programs the week of July 13-19, 2025:

Sign up today for your chance to win fantastic prizes and make the most of your summer with great books and fun experiences during our SummerREAD program. Explore all the details and check out the prizes at findlaylibrary.org.

Monday from 2 – 4 p.m. in our Children’s Programming Room, families can drop in to play and learn together. Join us for a Reading Games Get-Together to practice reading skills with your beginning reader. We have a collection of games that work on early literacy skills like letter names, letters shapes and sounds.

Meet us Monday, July 15 at 9 a.m. at the YMCA East Branch on Manor Hill Road and again on Thursday, July 17 at Gateway Church, 620 N. Main Street for Summer Connect. Summer Connect is a series of free, family-friendly neighborhood events hosted by the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library in collaboration with Hancock Public Health and the City of Findlay Parks & Recreation. These events are designed to connect families with local resources, hands-on activities, and meaningful community engagement.

Teens can register at findlaylibrary.org/events beginning July 15 at 9 a.m. for a Teen Tote filled with curated library books and surprise goodies! Once registered, you will receive an email with a form to fill out details that will help us get to know you, and your reading preferences. An active FHCPL card is required to participate.

Tuesday & Thursday at 9:30 a.m. in the Lindamood Room, Miss Nicole presents Colorful Birds Storytime with Naturalist Beth Theisen. Attendees can act like birds while listening to a fun story, then make a colorful bird with play dough and feathers (gluten free option available). Storytime is recommended for children 6 and under with a caregiver, but older siblings are welcome!

At 2 p.m. on Tuesday July 15, Makerspace is scheduled for the Lindamood Room. This week, participants will be making 3-D crafts with paper, like origami, pop-up cards, and more. This program is for kids 17 and under. We require children 8 and under to have a caregiver.

Tuesday at 2 p.m. in the Younger Room, drop in to receive basic tech help. Staff will be on hand to help with basic computer use, Microsoft Word, the internet, email, downloadable library resources, and basic smartphone use.

Mini Meet-Up is scheduled for Wednesday & Friday at 9 a.m. in the Early Learning Center in the Children’s Department. Little ones can explore new games, toys and activities that are educational and fun while socializing and making new friends.

Starter Storytime will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday & Friday in the Lindamood Room. There will be a second session on Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. in the Lindamood Room. Miss Nicole will lead families in singing, rhyming, reading and having fun with scarves and bells.

Storytime at Arlington is scheduled for Wednesday at 11:15 a.m. at our Arlington Branch. Children can hear great stories, do crafts and fun activities. This week, we’ll read our way through a rainbow safari. This program is designed for children 6 and under with their caregiver, but older siblings are welcome!

At 12 p.m. on Wednesday in the Lindamood Room, join us for an adult beginner pottery class and learn basic hand building techniques with Andrew Steingass, professional ceramic artist. Make what you like and get the piece fired for more durability! Fired pieces will be returned to the library and picked up at a later date.

Thrills and Chills Book Discussion is scheduled for July 16 at 6 p.m. in the Administration Office. We’ll be discussing What Happened to Nina? by Dervla McTeirnan.

The Family Resource Center will join us on Thursday at 2 p.m. and again at 3 p.m. to help kids explore feelings through color in a hands-on tie-dye activity. We will create expressive, swirling designs that promote creativity, mindfulness, and self-awareness. A zipper pouch will be provided for participants in grades 4-12 to tie-dye. Please register all children and teens who will attend at findlaylibrary.org/events.

Our Virtual Author Talks Series continues this week with author Marie Lu. Virtually explore the intricate world she created in Legend as she encourages readers to look beyond the surface and reveal hidden secrets. Explore the depths of deceit, battle for power, and the lengths characters will go to unmask the Truth. Register to be sent a link to join the discussion at libraryc.org/findlaylibrary. This series is presented in partnership with the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts.

A new series begins this week on Thursday at 5 p.m. in the Younger Room. The Divergent Dietitian will present a series of programs on healthy eating habits. This month’s session is all about how to get your children to eat without feeding them too much. These programs will address ways to combat and help picky eaters, navigate disagreements and defiant eaters at the dinner table, and talk about ways to empathetically discuss staying healthy.

Do you have a work in progress sitting around waiting to be finished, or maybe you just need to set time aside to work on a craft with other crafty adults? Join us for our monthly craft circle where all crafts are welcome on Thursday evening at 6 p.m. in the Administration Office at the library.

Families are invited to our super-special 1000 Books Celebration to recognize our amazing young readers and who are reading 1000 Books Before Kindergarten on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. in the Lindamood Room.

Whether you have completed the program, are participating, or would like to learn more about the program, this party is for you! We will read a story, hold a brief ceremony, make a craft, and for the grand finale, there will be a bubble dance party! We hope to see you there to celebrate the magic of reading!

Stay in touch and keep updated with all of the SummerREAD excitement at www.findlaylibrary.org, on our Facebook page, facebook.com/fhcpl, and on Instagram @fhcpl.

(ONN) – Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel has announced plans to create a healthier Ohio.

The former Buckeyes head football coach and lifetime athletics advocate is pushing for a new physical fitness challenge aimed directly at fourth through eighth graders to promote healthy eating habits and exercise routines.

This comes at a time when the state is trying to revive the presidential physical fitness test that dates back to the Eisenhower administration.

Childhood obesity, poor nutritional options and a lack of exposure to regular fitness have caused a decline in the health of Ohio’s youth.