(From the Ohio State Highway Patrol)

The Ohio State Highway Patrol will be joining forces with members of the 6-State Trooper Project to focus on safety belt enforcement across the state.

The eight‐day initiative will begin Monday, May 19 and continue through Monday, May 26. The campaign will include the Indiana State Police, Kentucky State Police, Michigan State Police, Pennsylvania State Police and West Virginia State Police.

During last year’s initiative, the six states involved in the effort issued a total of 8,159 seat belt citations. The Patrol accounted for 3,459 of those citations. The 6-State Trooper Project is a multi-state law enforcement partnership aimed at providing combined and coordinated law enforcement and security services in the areas of highway safety, criminal patrol and information sharing.

(From the Hancock County Veterans Service Office)

The Hancock County Veterans Service Office is seeking corporate sponsors, individual donors, and volunteers for the 2025 Flag City Community Vet Fest. 

Those interested should contact Ed Newton at the Hancock County Veterans Service Office by calling 419-424-7036 or at hancockveterans.com. There are more details in the flyer below.

Flag City Community Vet Fest, a production of the Hancock County Veterans Service Office presented by Rate will be happening Saturday, June 14th on Broadway St. in downtown Findlay.

The date is significant not just because it is Flag Day, but it is also the Army’s 250th birthday. It will give us an opportunity to recognize local veterans as well as veteran owned businesses and veteran friendly employers right in Hancock County.

The event is a music festival that will celebrate our veterans. Join us for delicious food from area food trucks, thirst quenching beverages, fun souvenirs, music that will make you get up and dance and the chance to give back to our veterans and our community.

The doors open at 3pm and the event ends at 11pm with a closing and flag lowering ceremony. Music begins at 4pm and will feature 3 bands – Truck Stop Manners, 100 Proof and First to Eleven.

“Vet Fest is about bringing people together. It’s a chance for veterans to connect with each other, but also to say thank you to the community for all the support they’ve shown us over the years,” expressed Ed Newton, Hancock County Veterans Service Office Resiliency Operations Manager. “It goes both ways—we’re honoring those who served, and also recognizing how much it means to have a community that stands behind us. At the end of the day, it’s about connection, gratitude, and having a good time with good people.”

Money raised from the event will benefit Wreaths Across America, veteran housing initiatives and local food pantries. In addition, there will a collection of new toys, still in packaging for our community.

According to Andy Sterling, VetFest Committee Member “Celebrating our local veterans is the best way to show our support. The passion and planning that has gone into this event is sure to highlight the pride Flag City and Hancock County has in our veteran residents”

Sponsorship opportunities are still available at many different levels.

Those interested should contact Ed Newton at the Hancock County Veterans Service Office by calling 419-424-7036 or at hancockveterans.com.

(By Brian Treece – President & CEO of The Community Foundation)

The unwavering dedication and profound impact of our local nonprofit organizations inspires me every day. They are, without a doubt, the very heartbeat of Hancock County. Day in and day out, these remarkable groups stand on the front lines, addressing the most vital needs of our neighbors and enriching the fabric of our lives in countless ways. Whether they provide crucial support to families, nurture the potential of our children, safeguard our environment, or offer avenues for cultural and personal growth, their work resonates deeply within our community. We witness their passion firsthand, and we extend our deepest gratitude for their tireless efforts.

At The Community Foundation, we recognize that empowering these vital organizations strengthens our county. Beyond our grantmaking efforts, we are committed to fostering their long-term success through our Organizational Strengthening program, which was established in 2011. We understand that a robust and effective nonprofit is better positioned to achieve its mission and, in turn, better serve our community.

Running a nonprofit requires significant work behind the scenes – strategic planning, diligent board governance, sound financial management, and the continuous effort to secure the necessary resources. Our Organizational Strengthening program is designed to help our local nonprofits evolve from good to great by providing support in these critical areas. Through workshops, personalized coaching, and other resources, we offer guidance to help them build a strong and sustainable foundation. While this support may not always be as visible as the direct services they provide, it is a crucial way we can ensure they thrive and continue to make a lasting difference in Hancock County for years to come.

Of course, the impact we collectively achieve would not be possible without the extraordinary generosity of the individuals and families within our community. Your kindness and steadfast belief in our shared future are the cornerstones upon which programs like Organizational Strengthening are built. When you contribute to The Community Foundation, you are making a direct investment in the future well-being of Hancock County, and for your trust and unwavering support, we are profoundly thankful.

The inspiring dedication of our nonprofit sector, coupled with the remarkable generosity of our donors and the strategic support offered through programs like ours, creates a powerful synergy right here at home. Together, we are all working towards a brighter future for Hancock County, and we are deeply grateful to have you as partners on this important journey.

Brian Treece – President & CEO of The Community Foundation

(From the Ohio Department of Transportation)

In a showcase of skill and precision, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) District 1 hosted its annual truck and loader roadeo in Lima. Thirty-nine employees from across the eight-county district competed for top honors in a series of challenges that tested their expertise in heavy equipment operation and commercial driving.

“The roadeo brings our teams from across the district together in friendly competition, showcasing our operator’s expertise in heavy equipment operation, precision driving, pre-trip inspections, and CDL regulations,” said Deputy Director Chris Hughes. “We’re proud to highlight their achievements while promoting a culture of teamwork and continuous learning.”

The roadeo, which began in 1988, is a long-standing tradition held annually in each of ODOT’s 12 districts. The top performers from each district go on to represent their district at the ODOT Director’s Cup in Columbus.

Roadeo Results

Top spots in the loader and truck categories go to Paulding County, Van Wert County, Wyandot County, and Roadway Services garages:

Loader competition

• First place – Kolby Taylor, Wyandot County garage with a score of 1950 out of a possible 2,300.

Second place – Matthew Brodman, Roadway Services garage.

• Third place – Zach Timbrook, Paulding County garage. 

Truck competition

• First place – Chris Lobsiger, Van Wert County garage with a score of 1880 out of a possible 2,300.
• Second place – Matthew Brodman, Roadway Services garage.
• Third place – Austin Dukes, Wyandot County garage.

The top two winners in each category will represent District 1 at the Director’s Cup Truck and Loader Roadeo. Lobsiger and Brodman will compete in the truck competition, while Taylor and Brodman will participate in the loader competition. Timbrook and Dukes earned spots as alternates.

The Hancock County maintenance garage was named team champion (top two truck scores and top two loader scores) with a total score of 6,690.

Mentoring Future Operators

Local high school construction equipment technology students from Apollo Career Center, Lima, and Vantage Career Center, Van Wert, recently had the opportunity to operate ODOT equipment and navigate the roadeo course, gaining hands-on experience and insight into the skills required for a career in heavy equipment operation.

Paint-the-Plow Contest

In conjunction with the roadeo, 23 plows painted by local schools were on display. ODOT employees voted for their favorite entries, and the public can also participate in voting for a people’s choice award on ODOT District 1’s social media account. A photo of each painted plow is on Facebook: Facebook.com/ODOTDistrict1

Each reaction, comment, and share on the photo will count as a vote. Voting runs through May 22 until 3 p.m., and winners will be announced May 23.

(From the City of Findlay)

Findlay Mayor Christina Muryn joined DoorDash and Findlay and Hancock County small business owners at the Findlay-Hancock Chamber of Commerce to kick off the 2025 DoorDash Accelerator for Local Businesses.

This 12-week innovative business development program will combine our local resources with DoorDash insights and expertise to help local businesses thrive. We’re proud to work with DoorDash to empower these business leaders through mentorship, grants, and support.

Announced in March, the Accelerator is the latest evolution and biggest update to DoorDash’s Accelerator programs and will run from May through July.

Ten entrepreneurs representing a range of small businesses – from restaurants to flower shops were chosen to participate in the Accelerator.

We can’t wait to see how you succeed!

Baker’s Café

Bella Floral Design

Dante’s Rolling Food Joint

Doughtroit

Fern Café

Hurdwell

Jonny Burritos

Leggo my eggroll

Stix Restaurant

Tokyo Steakhouse

Pics courtesy of DoorDash Impact

(From the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library)

This summer, families across Findlay are invited to join Summer Connect, a new initiative bringing free, family-friendly events to local neighborhoods—right where people live, play, and gather.

Building on the success of a 2024 pilot event, Summer Connect 2025 is expanding to seven events in parks and community spaces throughout the city. Designed to reach families, these events aim to connect community members with vital local resources, all while enjoying fun, engaging activities for all ages.

Summer Connect isn’t just about fun—it’s also about well-being. Thanks to a strong partnership with Hancock Public Health, each event will feature a mobile health clinic offering free health screenings to attendees. These screenings include blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen level, and Hemoglobin A1c checks—vital tools for early detection and health awareness.

The City of Findlay Parks and Recreation Department is also bringing their “Keep Active, Keep Healthy” initiative to Summer Connect. This program is designed to make physical activity fun, easy, and accessible for all ages by providing opportunities to participate in games, sports, and active play. Whether it’s tossing a ball, trying a new sport, or enjoying playground fun, families will be encouraged to move, laugh, and stay active together.

“Summer Connect is about bringing the heart of our community into neighborhoods,” says Kristy Szkudlarek, Read for Life Coordinator. “We want to make it easy for families to access important services while enjoying a morning of games, crafts, and connection. These events are completely free and open to everyone—no registration required—because every family deserves a chance to learn, play, and feel supported right where they live.”

Event Schedule:

• June 5 | Bernard Park | 1105 Bernard Ave. | 9 AM – 12 PM
• June 10 | West Park | 1425 Byal Ave. | 9 AM – 12 PM
• June 24 | The Family Center | 1800 N Blanchard St. | 9 AM – 12 PM
• July 8 | Emory Adams Park | 1827 S Blanchard St. | 9 AM – 12 PM
• July 10 | Riverside Park | 231 McManness Ave. | 9 AM – 12 PM
• July 15 | East Branch YMCA | 1400 Manor Hill Rd. | 9 AM – 12 PM
• July 17 | Gateway Church | 620 N Main St. | 9 AM – 12 PM

Each event will feature booths and activities from local organizations, giveaways, crafts, games, and more. Children and families can explore services offered by nonprofits, city departments, and community agencies in a welcoming and relaxed environment.

Organized by: The Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, Hancock Public Health, City of Findlay Parks & Recreation, and a host of committed partners working together to promote wellness, education, and belonging across Findlay. Other community agencies include: Help Me Grow, CASA, Head Start, Family and Children First Council, Awakening Minds Art, Hancock Historical Museum, HHWP Community Action Commission, Children’s Mentoring Connection, Women’s Resource Center, YWCA Child Care Resource, Hope House, WBGU-PBS, and more.

For more information, visit findlaylibrary.org or follow the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library on social media for updates.

The Findlay Publishing Company and Blanchard River Broadcasting Company have announced some key leadership transitions.

Dave Glass, Findlay Publishing Company President and Chief Executive Officer, has announced his retirement effective May 30. Glass began his career with the Company in 1981 as Program Director of WHMQ (now WKXA). He was named Director of Corporate Broadcast Communications in 1990 and assumed the role of President/CEO in 2023. Glass will continue to contribute to the Company as a member of the Board of Directors. He resides in Findlay with his wife, Carrie. The have one son.

Kurt Heminger has been appointed as the new President and Chief Executive Officer. Kurt joined the Company in 1985 and most recently served as Executive Vice President and COO. A graduate of Bowling Green State University, he resides in Findlay with his wife, Sue. They have two children.

Kevin Pancake has been promoted to Vice President. Kevin joined the Company in 1981, starting as an Outside Sales Representative for The Courier. He was promoted to head of marketing for the broadcast division in 1989. Also a graduate of Bowling Green State University, Kevin lives in Findlay with his wife, Sue.

Dan Heminger has been named Secretary of The Findlay Publishing Company. Dan joined the Company’s Board of Directors in 1984. He is a graduate of George Washington University, currently works for United Airlines, and resides in Findlay.

Mike Holman has been named Vice President of The Blanchard River Broadcasting Company, a subsidiary of The Findlay Publishing Company located in Findlay (operating WBUK, WFIN, and WKXA Radio). Holman joined the organization in 2011 as General Manager. A native of Fostoria and a graduate of the University of Toledo, he lives in Findlay with his wife, Kari, and their four children.

(From the Findlay Police Department)

The City has recently experienced a series of incidents involving damage and defacement of restrooms in several public parks.

These acts, believed to be the actions of juveniles, may be seen by some as harmless pranks.

However, they are in fact criminal offenses and are subject to prosecution under Criminal Damaging and/or Criminal Mischief statutes.

Such vandalism not only violates the law but also results in the temporary closure of restrooms for repairs and cleanup, creating inconvenience for other park visitors and placing an unnecessary financial burden on the community.

We would like to remind parents and guardians that they may be held financially liable for damages caused by their children.

We urge all parents to speak with their children about the seriousness of these actions and the potential legal and financial consequences.

Let’s work together to protect and preserve our parks for everyone to enjoy.

(From the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and Blanchard Valley Health System)

Blanchard Valley Health System (BVHS) in Findlay has joined The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center’s Heart & Vascular Network. The premier network extends Ohio State’s heart and vascular expertise by providing top-tier cardiovascular care and ensuring patients receive the best possible treatment close to home.

“We have the opportunity to redefine cardiovascular care in our community through a strategic collaboration with The Ohio State University Heart & Vascular Network,” said Myron D. Lewis, MSW, MBA, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of Blanchard Valley Health System. “This new partnership will help us fulfill our mission to bring the best health care and highest clinical expertise to those we serve. The road ahead will focus on expanding cardiovascular services and prioritizing quality care. Ultimately, the vision is to advance teamwork and transform the patient experience.”

Collaboration of the Heart & Vascular Network with partner health systems will extend clinical care, research and education across Ohio. “Ohio State’s Heart & Vascular Center and BVHS have a longstanding relationship, especially in electrophysiology. BVHS is now a core member of the Heart & Vascular Network, marking one of the most comprehensive and exciting collaborations in the Heart & Vascular Center’s history,” said John J. Warner, MD, CEO of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and executive vice president at Ohio State. “This enhanced collaboration speaks to our shared commitment to meeting the health care needs of all Ohioans while also keeping care close to home.”

The heart program at BVHS will benefit from improved access to specialized care and seamless coordination of resources with Ohio State, Lewis said. BVHS recently renamed its cardiovascular facility the Heminger Heart and Vascular Center, with the full support and generosity of donors Jane and Gary Heminger. The name change reflects the organization’s commitment to advancing cardiovascular care and innovation, ensuring that patients across the region receive the highest-quality treatment.

(From the University of Findlay)

The University of Findlay’s Graduating Class Gift Philanthropy Cord program honored 144 seniors this year with philanthropy cords, which they wore during Commencement as a symbol of their commitment to the Oiler culture of philanthropy.

President Katherine Fell, Ph.D., and Kenneth McIntyre Jr., vice president of University advancement, presented green cords to the students at a ceremony on May 5, thanking them for their generosity and service.

During the 2024-25 academic year, 144 students donated toward the Findlay Forward Class of 2025 Scholarship and more than $3,000 was raised. Collectively, the students participated in more than 6,500 hours of community service.

“The practice of philanthropy is thriving among this newest generation of Oilers, and we are very proud of them,” said Tiffany Koenig, ’22, assistant director of annual giving and stewardship manager, who also was a philanthropy cord recipient as a UF senior.

“Earning this philanthropy cord shows future employers that these UF graduates understand the importance of giving back and supporting the community,” she explained.

The Philanthropy Cord Program has honored and educated students about philanthropy since its launch in 2015-16 at UF. One of the first nationally-recognized programs of its kind, its objective is to engage graduating seniors to build a foundation of future volunteers and donors, as well as to inspire them to be actively involved in civic engagement in their communities.

The program requires a contribution to the class gift, volunteering for a minimum of six hours, and attendance at a philanthropic learning event.

“It is so important to give of your time, talent, and treasure – and the fact that you’ve done all three shows the impact you make on your University and also your community,” McIntyre told the graduating seniors.

He noted that these Oilers have been helping and serving others throughout the local community at locations such as the City Mission, youth sports camps, the Helping Hands food drive, UF’s Mazza Museum for Funday Sundays, and many other churches and non-profit organizations. Some traveled farther – building homes for Habitat for Humanity in North Carolina during Spring Break and even caring for wild animals at a ranch in South Africa.

Photos of students receiving their philanthropy cords can be viewed in the University’s Flickr Album.