(From the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation)

The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation’s ‘Fun for All’ series of free community events continues in April.

The events scheduled so far are listed below and more will be added as they become available.

•  6 – Family Opera on Wheels SOLD OUT
  1-5 p.m. (TBD)
  Location: Marathon Center for the Performing Arts
  Organization: Toledo Opera
• 11 – Evening with Johnny Cash
  5:30 – 7 p.m.
  Location & Organization: 50 North
  Registration is required: 50 North
• 12 – Growing Up ’90s Family Night
  5-8 p.m.
  Location & Organization: Hancock Historical Museum
• 19 – Game-A-Pa-Looza
  12 – 4 p.m.
  Location & Organization: 50 North
  Registration is required: 50 North

 “We’ve heard time and time again that finding affordable, family-friendly activities is a challenge in Hancock County. The Community Foundation is proud to provide Fun for All to help bridge the gap,” said Community Foundation President and CEO Brian Treece.

Brian says the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation is thankful to its community partners for making the events possible.

(From the City of Findlay)

The City of Findlay presented Raeanna Decker, Assistant Utility Billing Supervisor with the Utility Billing Department, with the John Edward Seman Award for Employee Excellence on April 1, 2025, at a luncheon.

Raeanna is being nominated for her exceptional contributions to the Utility Billing Office during 2024. She played a crucial role in ensuring that all office procedures and processes continued smoothly, even taking on responsibilities previously handled by the Supervisor.

Raeanna worked overtime multiple times and helped train the new Supervisor, demonstrating unwavering dedication. Throughout a challenging transition period, Raeanna maintained high standards, assisted with numerous tasks, and ensured the department’s continued operation. She upheld important policies, such as cash handling, even under difficult circumstances.

Raeanna’s commitment to doing what was right and her dedication to customer service are highly valued. Her efforts were instrumental in navigating challenges, and her professionalism and leadership set a strong example for others. Raeanna is described as an invaluable asset to the department and the City of Findlay, making her a deserving candidate for this recognition.

Two City employees were nominated by their peers. Nominees included: Raeanna Decker, Utility Billing Department; and Troy Wahl, Computer Services Department.

The program is named in honor of Assistant City Engineer John E. Seman who passed away in late 2004. John’s service to the City began in May 2000. John’s distinguished character and passion for excellence in building a community established a pinnacle for all to follow.

The annual John Edward Seman Award for Employee Excellence is intended to formally recognize a City employee whose service, dedication, integrity, and commitment to community are exemplary. John’s parents, Dave and Beth Seman, and his brother and sister-in-law Dan and Katie Seman and their son George helped present the award.

City employees who have served at least one year, except elected officials, are eligible for nomination. Nominations were made by employees of the City of Findlay.

A plaque displaying names of past award recipients is displayed in the Municipal Building.

(From Findlay City Schools)

Mark your calendars for a Findlay City Schools Town Hall on April 9, 2025 at 6 p.m. Donnell Middle School!

We are sticking with the same topic for this Town Hall (district finances) to be sure we get all your questions answered!

Join us to hear accurate information straight from our Superintendent, Treasurer, and members of the FCS Board of Education.

A link will be provided one week ahead of Town Hall for those wishing to submit questions ahead of time.

Watch the livestream here: youtube.com/live/69klF7k4rsY

WFIN – Findlay City Schools in February held a Town Hall at Glenwood Middle School on the district’s finances and financial challenges following the failed levy last November which resulted in a $6.1 million budget reduction. 

The Findlay City Schools Board of Education recently shared a second phase of potential budget reductions should the district’s 1 percent earned income tax levy on the May 6 ballot not pass.

(From Open Arms Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Services)

In honor of National Sexual Assault Awareness Month this April, Open Arms is reaching out to local businesses for support in displaying free informational clings throughout the community. These clings will provide important details about the services Open Arms offers and includes a QR code for discreet access to connect to Open Arms advocates and services.

Ideally, they can be placed on the top or bottom corner of any public or employee bathroom mirrors. This location provides an opportunity for individuals to access critical information about the resources available in a safe and confidential manner. By supporting this effort, you can help empower individuals to seek assistance while maintaining their privacy.

If you would like to participate and receive informational clings for your business, please reach out to Roseanna Thornton at rthornton@openarmsfindlay.org or call 419-420-9261 ext. 0242. We appreciate your willingness to join us in spreading awareness and ensuring that all survivors know they are not alone.

Open Arms provides vital services to individuals affected by domestic violence and sexual assault. Last year, Open Arms provided a total of 9,964 individual services. For more information about Open Arms, please visit our website at openarmsfindlay.com or contact our 24-Hour Crisis Hotline at 419-422-4766.

(From Findlay City Schools Alumni Association)

It’s time to nominate an FHS graduate for the Findlay City Schools Alumni Association’s Distinguished Alumni Award!

This award recognizes and honors graduates of FHS who have made significant and noteworthy contributions in their time since graduating.

Consider nominating someone incredible today: https://forms.gle/u3vA85BxLTbYfhdT9

(From Sarah Clevidence, Director of the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library)

Dear Library Supporter,

Ohio’s public libraries need your help.

The state budget proposed by the Ohio House of Representatives eliminates the Public Library Fund, a fund which provides the majority of funding for Ohio’s public libraries.

Public libraries in Ohio have worked in partnership with the state to deliver library services at the local level for almost 100 years. The current proposal reduces funding for libraries by 100 million dollars over the next two years from the Governor’s proposal and provides no guarantee of state funding of public libraries after 2027.

Ohio’s public libraries are currently funded at the same level as we were in the year 2000, with no adjustment for 25 years of inflation.

At the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 66% of the library’s 2024 revenue came from the Public Library Fund. A local tax levy provided 22% of revenue and the remaining 12% came from investment income, grants and gifts.

These proposed changes to library funding hurt our library and libraries across the state. We rely on the Public Library Fund to provide:

• Books, movies and music for all ages
• Programs like Storytime, Makerspace and Crafterwork
• Adult Literacy Education
• Public computers, internet access, and so much more.

Please, take action now!

Now is the time to tell Hancock County’s state Representative Ty Mathews and House Speaker Matt Huffman how important the library is to you and your family. Share your stories about the library resources and services that you rely on and ask them to restore the Public Library Fund to the amount designated in the Governor’s proposed budget. Contact Representative Ty Mathews at rep83@ohiohouse.gov or (614) 466-3819 and House Speaker Matt Huffman at rep78@ohiohouse.gov or (614) 466-6344.

We are proud to serve our community and grateful for the support you show for our library. Thank you for acting today to help restore funding for the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library and all of Ohio’s public libraries.

In appreciation,

Sarah Clevidence

Director, Findlay-Hancock County Public Library

(From Hancock County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA))

The Hancock County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program is raising awareness about the fight to keep local children safe from harm during Child Abuse Prevention Month this April.

This push is central to the CASA mission of having highly trained community members advocate in court for children experiencing abuse and neglect.

Child Abuse Prevention Month highlights the importance of families and communities working together to fight child abuse and neglect.

“CASA volunteers are the voice for children who have been silenced by trauma and uncertainty. Their strong advocacy efforts ensure that every child’s best interests are heard in court and beyond. Our volunteers are such a powerful force for hope, stability and a bright future for children right here in Hancock County.” -Ashley Bell, Executive Director

After undergoing a background check and comprehensive training, CASA volunteers are appointed by a judge to advocate for children in abuse or neglect cases. Volunteers are community members from all walks of life.

CASA volunteers in Hancock County served 56 children in 2024 and offered over 330 hours of their time to advocate for the children of Hancock County.

“When our volunteers advocate for children, they’re not just changing individual lives – they are strengthening entire communities. Every child who finds stability, safety, and a chance to thrive becomes part of a stronger, more compassionate future for us all.“ Ashley Bell, Executive Director

There is a need for more community members to become CASA volunteers and help children, and to learn how you can help please visit www.hancockcountycasa.org or call 419-424-7011.

Volunteers complete at least 30 hours of training and in-court observation before being assigned a case. CASA volunteers get continued support and complete annual training.

Hancock County CASA is part of a state and national network. There are 48 CASA programs serving more than 9,000 children in 62 Ohio counties annually. Hancock County has operated a CASA program since 1988.

Brian Bauman has announced he’ll be running for reelection in Findlay City Council’s Fifth Ward.

He’ll be challenged by Kimberly Meador in the Republican Primary on May 6.

Below is a news release Bauman sent out announcing his candidacy.

Click here for the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce Voter Report to learn more about the candidates, and click here for the Hancock County Board of Elections.

Fifth Ward Councilman Brian Bauman recently announced his candidacy for re-election to the Findlay City Council, building on his record of conservative leadership since taking office in 2022.

Bauman, who currently serves as Chairman of the Planning Committee, has established himself as a dedicated public servant on the Strategic Planning and Water and Sewer Committees. He also represents the council on the Airport Advisory Board and the Shade Tree Commission.

“My commitment to the residents of the Fifth Ward remains steadfast,” said Bauman. “Over the past two years, we’ve made significant progress, but there’s more work to be done to ensure Findlay continues to thrive.”

Bauman’s leadership has earned him the endorsement of the Ohio Young Republican PAC for the upcoming Republican Primary on May 6th.

“I proudly accept the endorsement of the Ohio Young Republicans,” said Bauman. “As a Young Republican myself, I understand the impact of local government on young people and their families. I will continue to voice this perspective as your Councilman in the next term.”

Ohio Young Republican Chairman Cody Pettit expressed strong support for Bauman’s candidacy: “We are thrilled to support a strong leader like Brian Bauman in his re-election. Conservative leaders like Brian help their communities thrive and grow.”

Bauman’s re-election campaign will focus on continuing his work to strengthen Findlay through fiscal responsibility, strategic development, and responsive governance.

(From the Findlay Police Department)

Lieutenant Morey and Sergeant Waldbauer completed the FBI LEEDA Leadership training and were presented with the Trilogy Award.

Recipients of the FBI LEEDA Trilogy Award must complete the FBI LEEDA Supervisor Leadership Institute, Command Leadership Institute, and Executive Leadership Institute.

Congratulations!

(From Hancock County ADAMHS)

A public health collaboration that has helped Hancock County residents “clean out their medicine cabinets” is still going strong.

Since 2012, the partnership between the University of Findlay College of Pharmacy, Findlay Police Department, and Hancock ADAMHS has collected and destroyed over six tons of unwanted, outdated or unused prescriptions and other drugs during curbside drop-off events and through drop boxes.

U of F’s Tim Burkart says residents help keep medicines out of the wrong hands and from contaminating the environment by turning them back in when they are no longer needed.

“It’s remarkable what’s been accomplished over the years,” he said. “I think through the take-back events people have become better informed about items that they don’t need to keep around their homes.”

Statistics from collection events, including “Take it to the Box,” suggest awareness is growing.

The community has turned in over 13,000 pounds of prescriptions and other-the-counter products, including 2,100 pounds in 2016 alone.

“I think people are more aware of the importance of properly disposing of certain items since the effort began,” Burkart said. “They’re keeping up.”

Crime prevention officer Brian White of the Findlay Police Department agrees the public has responded well to the program.

“From my observations, the majority of those that come through the collection points are seniors. In many cases, they have acquired a large amount of medications that go unused and know they need to get rid of them. The collection drive gives them a convenient way to get rid of them.”

The drop-off events make it easy for people to participate as they don’t even have to get out of their car. Medications are handed to a volunteer for disposal.

After collecting them, the items are later incinerated.

The first drop-off event of 2025 will be held on Saturday, April 26, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at the Findlay Municipal Building parking lot on Crawford Street.

A second drop-off will be on Oct. 25 at the same location.

For those unable to attend the events, residents also can dispose of unneeded medications in marked boxes located in the lobbies at the Findlay Municipal Building and the lobby at the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office.

Seven pharmacies in the county also have boxes for those looking to dispose of unneeded prescriptions and other meds.

Burkart believes the collection efforts are worth continuing each year and encourages community participation.

“It is still an important thing for the community to participate in,” Burkart said. “I think most people realize the benefits.”

White also applauds the public buy-in of the take-back efforts.

“I would reiterate that medication needs to be disposed of appropriately and remind citizens that collection boxes are always available for disposal.”