(From the Findlay Rotary Club)

Paige Ouwenga has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Richard E. “Dick” Daugherty Scholarship. Ouwenga is a 2025 graduate of Findlay High School and is the daughter of Karen Ouwenga. She plans to attend Kent State University in the fall to pursue a degree in Communications/Broadcasting.

During high school, she earned a place on the Distinguished Honor Roll and was actively involved in the Findlay High School choir, as well as the bowling and gymnastics teams. She also dedicated time to volunteering with the Miracle League.

The Richard E. “Dick” Daugherty Scholarship fund was endowed by The Findlay Publishing Company and the Findlay Rotary Club in 2004 in honor of Daugherty, who passed away in 2008. He had spent more than 50 years with the company. Daugherty had been recognized as “Mr. Findlay Rotary.” Dick was the first recipient of the Findlay Rotary Lifetime Achievement Award. The award has since been named the Richard E. Daugherty Lifetime Achievement Award. The Richard E. “Dick” Daugherty Scholarship is designated for students studying art, including graphic design, music, dance, theatre or speech (broadcasting).

Anyone wishing to contribute to The Richard E. “Dick” Daugherty Scholarship Fund may contact The Community Foundation at 101 West Sandusky Street, Suite 207 Findlay OH 45840 or call (419) 425-1100.

The Findlay Rotary Club was founded in 1920 and is a member of Rotary International, an association of Rotary clubs around the world, which today numbers almost 32,000 clubs in over 200 countries. The Rotary Club of Findlay was founded by the city’s leaders in 1920, and continues with the leaders of today. The Club also sponsors the Rotaract Club at The University of Findlay.

(From the Ohio Department of Transportation)

HANCOCK COUNTY: Interstate 75/State Route 235 pavement repair

Interstate 75/State Route 235 interchange will have ramp closures on Tuesday, May 20, for pavement repairs:

• I-75 northbound entrance ramp and I-75 southbound exit ramp from 7 a.m. – noon.
• I-75 southbound entrance ramp and I-75 northbound exit ramp from noon – 2 p.m.

View on OHGO: https://www.ohgo.com/nw-ohio?lt=40.91374461218287&ln=-83.82346494817062&z=16&ls=incident,construction,construction-future,camera

(From the University of Findlay)

The Findlay Area Pharmacists Association has made a gift to the University of Findlay in memory of Dr. Donald Stansloski, founding dean of UF’s College of Pharmacy.

“We are truly grateful for this gift, and we know we could not produce such outstanding graduates without the support of pharmacist mentors like those in our community,” said Debra Parker, Pharm.D., dean of the College of Pharmacy, accepting the donation to support college initiatives.

In 2005, at the same time the University established the College of Pharmacy, the Findlay Area Pharmacists Association (FAPA) was born, and the two organizations enjoyed a mutually supportive relationship in those early years.

Pharmacists Amy DeMarsh, Dallas Sterling, and Guy Dell presented the $6,000 gift to UF “as a small token of our gratitude and commitment to advancing pharmacy education.”

With the passing of Dr. Stansloski on March 7, 2025, FAPA representatives wished to honor his memory, the close relationship between FAPA and UF, and the lasting impact of both.

“We’re pleased to honor the family of Dean Stansloski through this gift – and proud to be part of something so meaningful,” said Sterling, who added that the funds are dedicated to renovation of the pharmacy skills lab in memory of Dr. Stansloski “whose legacy continues to inspire us all.”

Dell echoed that respect for the late UF pharmacy dean, noting that he feels fortunate to have been a student of Dr. Stansloski and grateful to play a part in the continuation of his legacy.

“It means a lot to support the University of Findlay and its College of Pharmacy,” Dell said. “With over 50 years in the profession – many of those here in Findlay – I know how important it is to keep pharmacy education strong for the community’s future.”

Dr. Stansloski served as dean from 2004 until retirement in 2014, and continued as a lifetime member of the College of Pharmacy Advisory Board. He and the late UF Trustee Emeritus Bill Ruse collaborated on a book A Prescription for Healthcare Reform: Fact Book and Road Map.

He earned a bachelor of pharmacy from Ferris State University in 1961. He received a master’s and doctorate of pharmacy from University of Nebraska and taught there until 1972. He continued teaching at Ohio Northern University until 1995. Dr. Stansloski also was a Fulbright Scholar and taught at University of Harare, Zimbabwe, in 1984.

“Don’s commitment to excellence and his tireless efforts in shaping the college left an indelible mark on UF students, faculty, and the pharmacy community,” Dr. Parker said. “It’s a beautiful thing when life comes full circle.”

To pay tribute to Dean Stansloski and support the UF College of Pharmacy, donations may be made at https://www.givecampus.com/cmrc7o.

(From the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation)

Handbags That Help held its annual celebration meeting and awarded $42,500 to four area nonprofits.

City Mission of Findlay received a $17,000 grant to build a playground and outdoor area at Martha’s Home, a beacon of hope for women and children experiencing homelessness. Martha’s Home also provides essential resources like meals, laundry, advocacy, mental health support, and financial coaching. Congratulations!

Cancer patients will benefit from a $14,000 grant awarded to Cancer Patient Services of Hancock County enabling the purchase of supplies for protein smoothies that support their nutritional needs. Congratulations!

Welcome to a New Life, an organization serving adults in Hancock County’s criminal justice system with mentorship and resources for crime-free, drug-free, productive lives, has received a $9,000 grant. This funding will benefit their clothing closet. Congratulations!

Owens Community College Foundation received a $2,500 grant for creative curriculum and developmental play at Owens Early Learning Center. Congratulations!

(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.