(From the Hancock Historical Museum)

Celebrate Independence Day with an old-fashioned ice cream social from noon to 2 p.m. on Friday, July 4th!

The Hancock Historical Museum at 422 West Sandusky Street in Findlay is an easy walk from the Main Street parade route, and facilities will be open with free family-friendly activities!

Dietsch Brothers Fine Chocolates and Ice Cream scoops are available to purchase for $2, ice cream bars for $2, and root beer floats for $3!

Show your Flag City pride with a commemorative mug for $5 or add a root beer float to it for $7!

Plus- there will be a silent book auction and sale to support the Liberty Tree planting at the Little Red Schoolhouse, put on by the John Hancock Chapter of the Ohio Society, Sons of the American Revolution. 

Want more Fourth of July fun?  Don’t miss the fireworks on July 3 and the Independence Day Parade prior to the Ice Cream Social!

(From the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation)

The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation is excited to announce its latest community-wide initiative, Rooted to Rise: Supporting Work and Play in Hancock County. Unveiled at the Foundation’s Annual Celebration on June 18, this campaign is designed to strategically align community needs with the generosity of donors, bolstering existing systems and fostering long-term growth for a thriving future.

“The genesis of this campaign was the realization that these two areas in particular, work and play, are crucial to quality of life,” said Brian Treece, President & CEO of the Foundation. “The State of Work and Play Report we commissioned last year underscores the need for more support in these areas to ensure everyone in Hancock County has access to a thriving life.”

The “work” category focuses on vital systems such as childcare, housing, transportation, and workforce development. Complementing this, the “play” category emphasizes arts, Fun for All, parks and recreation. With a housing occupancy rate exceeding 99%, childcare costs often rivaling rent, and the cost of recreational activities increasing by an average of 38% since 2021 nationally, many Hancock County families live on the edge of financial crisis. Yet, through these challenges, the spirit of our community persists, as residents continue to seek joy, connection, and creativity. Rooted to Rise aims to encourage and propel that spirit forward.

“We envision a future where Hancock County is not just a place people pass through for work, but a place they’re proud to call home, a place where children can grow up surrounded by learning and opportunity; and adults have access to careers, culture, and community without compromise,” said Treece. “That’s the future we’re building together – a Hancock County where everyone can put down strong roots and continually rise.”

Beyond fundraising, Rooted to Rise is also an educational initiative to deepen community understanding of the critical issues impacting Hancock County. Lasting change comes from knowing the root causes rather than just the symptoms. As part of this campaign, we will highlight the interconnectedness of work and play elements, demonstrating how issues like housing availability can impact workforce development, or how access to recreational activities can improve overall well-being and productivity.

The Foundation will host a variety of community education sessions, including lunch and learns, site visits to local organizations addressing these needs, and other special opportunities. These events will provide valuable insights into how systems change works and how individuals can contribute to a thriving Hancock County.

By investing in both work and play, the Foundation is building a balanced ecosystem where people and possibilities flourish. With the help of many generous donors, there are already 100 funds supporting the systems that are part of work and play. But there’s more work to be done.

Those interested in supporting this work can find more information, including the whole State of Work and Play Report, on our website here.

Findlay’s Fourth of July Parade will take place on Friday, July 4th beginning at 11 a.m.

Line-up will begin at the intersection of Baldwin Avenue and South Main Street beginning at 9 a.m.  

The annual parade to celebrate our country’s independence will step off at South Main Street and Lima Street, travel north on Main Street through Downtown Findlay, ending at the Hancock County War Memorial at the intersection of North Main Street and Center Street.

The Fourth of July parade is organized by a group of community volunteers. Any questions regarding the parade can be answered by calling Scott Sterling, 567-525-1612 or Mike Benavides 419-348-7922.

Other Fourth of July festivities taking place in Findlay include the July 4th Spectacular, Presented by the Hancock County Agricultural Society fireworks and day of family fun at the Hancock County Fairgrounds on July 3, and the Hancock Historical Museum’s annual Ice Cream Social following the parade on July 4.

For information on these events and others taking place in the community go to VisitFindlay.com

(From the Findlay Police Department)

We’ve recently received questions concerning Ohio’s Fireworks Law. Below is a reminder of the law, which went into effect in 2022, as well as recommendations for having a safe holiday.

Ohio Fireworks Law (Ohio Revised Code 3743.45)

Ohioans can discharge consumer fireworks on the following dates and times:

July 3, 4, and 5, and the weekends immediately before and after (4 p.m.- 11 p.m.)

Labor Day weekend (4 p.m.- 11 p.m.)

Diwali (4 p.m.- 11 p.m.)

New Year’s Eve (4 p.m.- 11:59 p.m.)

New Year’s Day (12 a.m.- 1 a.m.; 4 p.m.- 11 p.m.)

Chinese New Year (4 p.m.- 11 p.m.)

Cinco de Mayo (4 p.m.- 11 p.m.)

Memorial Day weekend (4 p.m.- 11 p.m.)

Juneteenth (4 p.m.- 11 p.m.)

Also:

– No person under the age of 18 is permitted to handle or discharge fireworks.

– Persons under the age of 18 cannot be within 150 feet of the discharge point of aerial fireworks.

– It is illegal to use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

– No person can use fireworks while in possession or control of, or under the influence of, any intoxicating liquor, beer, or controlled substance.

– Aerial devices cannot be discharged within 150 feet of spectators. (This includes aerial shells, roman candles, firework “cakes” and bottle rockets).

– Non-aerial devices cannot be discharged within 50 feet of spectators. (This includes firework fountains, firecrackers, and ground effect devices).

– It is also recommended to set off fireworks in a clear area away from buildings and flammable materials and keeping a bucket of water nearby, and aerial fireworks require a 150-foot distance from spectators.

Note: These separation distances – for both aerial and non-aerial devices – are increased for certain types of locations such as hospitals, schools, healthcare and residential facilities, apartment and multi-tenant buildings, military installations and railroads.

No person can store in excess of 125 pounds (net weight of pyrotechnic composition) of fireworks unless they have additional safety measures and safeguards in place for such storage.

Fireworks cannot be discharged indoors.

Fireworks cannot be aimed at or discharged toward any person or object (such as buildings).

Fireworks cannot be discharged on public property or private school property.

Fireworks cannot be discharged if drought conditions exist or in an area where a red flag warning is in place or other weather hazard exists.

Where can Ohioans buy fireworks?

Only fireworks purchased in Ohio may be discharged in Ohio. Consumers may purchase fireworks from any of the licensed sales locations throughout the state. When purchasing fireworks, the retailer must provide consumers with safety glasses (for free or at a nominal charge) and with a safety pamphlet.

Can local officials stop Ohioans from discharging fireworks?

As part of the new law, any political subdivision may opt-out of allowing the ability to discharge within their limits so discuss with your local officials the best course of action for your jurisdiction.

The State Fire Marshal provides rules to the public related to the new fireworks law. For a complete look at the new fireworks rules, visit the Division website

For more information you can visit the Ohio Department of Commerce website:

https://com.ohio.gov/…/ohioans-can-discharge-fireworks…

OR

City of Findlay:

https://www.findlayohio.gov/Home/Components/News/News/1260/

The Findlay Police Department says a woman was issued a citation for jaywalking after getting hit by a car while crossing a street.

It happened at North Main Street and 21^st Street a little after noon Sunday.

Police said Nanette Holley, 59, of Findlay, was crossing North Main Street on a handicap scooter when she was struck by a northbound car being driven by Sarah Sexton, 32, of Toledo.

Holley was transported to a hospital with serious injuries, police said.

She was issued a citation for jaywalking as there are no crosswalks in that area. 

Sexton was issued a citation for expired registration, police said.

(From the Ohio State Highway Patrol)

The Sandusky Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating an injury plane crash that occurred just before 11:30 a.m. on June 27 near Kelleys Island Municipal Airport.

The preliminary investigation revealed the single-engine plane, a Cessna 177 Cardinal, piloted by Craig Reese, age 69, of Liberty Twp. Ohio, crashed while attempting to take off westbound from the airport. The plane crashed into the ground, no other property was damaged as a result of the crash.

Mr. Reese and his passenger, Robin Reese, age 67, of Liberty Twp. Ohio, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported by air ambulance to Mercy St. Vincent Hospital in Toledo.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted at the scene by Kelleys Island Police Department, Kelleys Island Fire Department and the FAA.

The Federal Aviation Administration has been notified and the incident remains under investigation.

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

The Hancock County Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) is offering a new app to support the family, friends, and loved ones of individuals with substance use disorder (SUD). The Companion app, developed by CHESS Health, features a community of peers, a library of educational content, inspiration and guidance, virtual support group meetings, and additional resources.

The Companion app is a component of CHESS Health’s evidence-based eRecovery solution, which also includes the powerful Connections app for individuals with Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Hancock County launched the Connections app in 2022 to help people achieve and maintain recovery. The success of that app inspired the board to add the Companion app in October 2024. Like the Connections app, the Companion app is free and available to everyone in Hancock County.

Receiving support from a community of peers provides a great source of strength for loved ones of people with SUD, minimizing the stigma, isolation, and shame that often surround addiction. In addition, research shows people with SUD who are supported by family and friends experience multiple positive benefits, including an increased likelihood of seeking treatment and adhering to it, and lower instances of substance use, arrest, and hospitalization.

“Our intention is to equip families and friends with as many tools as possible,” said Zach Thomas, director of wellness and education at the ADAMHS board. “We know that people who support people in recovery need support themselves. This app helps us provide that for them.”

CHESS Health and Hancock County are both focused on a holistic approach to addressing the substance use disorder (SUD) crisis, said Hans Morefield, CEO of CHESS Health. “The recovery journey is a challenge for everyone involved, not just the person in recovery,” he said. “Connecting with a community of peers helps families learn from the wisdom of others who relate to what they’re going through, enabling them to build strength and resilience to keep forging ahead.”

About Hancock County ADAMHS Board

The Hancock County Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) is a public body comprised of voluntary members who share a deep commitment to how our local community works together to meet the mental health and substance use treatment and recovery needs of our neighbors, friends, and loved ones. ADAMHS is the local mental health and substance use services planning authority for Hancock County.

About CHESS Health

CHESS Health is a leading provider of effective, turnkey, evidence-based digital behavioral health solutions backed by peer support. These tools empower providers, health plans, and public sector organizations to address the substance use disorder crisis by enhancing prevention, facilitating care coordination, and improving adherence to care plans and treatment retention, ultimately resulting in better health outcomes. For more information, visit www.chess.health.

(From the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce)

Nominations are officially open for the 62nd Annual Small Business Awards!

Help us recognize all of the amazing businesses and organizations in the Findlay and Hancock County community by submitting your nominations today!

Each year, we shine a spotlight on individuals whose entrepreneurial spirit and independent drive are crucial to building our community and boosting the economy.

Join us in acknowledging the accomplishments of the small businesses in Findlay and Hancock County. 

Visit FindlayHancockChamber.com/SBA to see the awards, their criteria, and to submit your nominations!

The awards ceremony will take place Thursday, October 9th.

(From the Ohio Department of Transportation)

The Interstate 75 interchange ramps at U.S. 68/SR 15 will close Sunday night, June 29, 5 p.m. – midnight, for micro milling to improve friction.

• I-75 exit ramps to U.S. 68/SR 15 closed
• Ramps will be open to Lima Ave.
• I-75 northbound lane closures prior to the ramp (MM 155.5-156.5)
• Detour: Use Lima Ave. roundabout to enter U.S. 68/SR 15

(From the University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum)

The University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum will showcase a selection of the world’s finest fantasy artists in its 11th annual Enchanted Brush exhibit, open now through August 29.

This year’s exhibit, free to the public in the Lea Gallery of UF’s Gardner Fine Arts Pavilion, has a theme of “Legendary.”

“This exhibition brings to life the characters, myths, and moments of epic tales,” explained Dan Chudzinski, director of curation and exhibitions at Mazza and founder of the Enchanted Brush exhibition.

There are 27 works of art, representing 22 international fantasy artists, in the display of oil paintings, scratchboard, bronze sculpture, 3D-printed digital sculpture, and more.

The theme emphasizes the connection between fantasy artwork and great literature, and how both transcend time.

“It has the power to transport us to the shadows of Sherwood, through the mists of Avalon, and beyond the boundaries of our imaginations,” Chudzinski explained. “This is art that provokes thought and curiosity.”

Among the featured pieces is “St. Petroch and the Dragon,” an oil painting by Scott Gustafson, whose work ranges from creating tea box artwork for Celestial Seasonings to covers for the Saturday Evening Post. Illustrating children’s books is his favorite creative outlet, and he currently has five books in print.

Gustafson’s painting for the exhibit features the legend of St. Petroch, a monk in Wales during the sixth century. The story tells of a distraught dragon upsetting nearby residents, and when Petroc confronted the beast, he learned that it had a splinter in its eye and needed help. The painting illustrates Petroch’s removal of the splinter, which resulted in the dragon leaving the village in peace.

Another featured artist in the exhibit is Don Maitz, with his oil paintings “Arthur in Battle” and “Arthur Knights Lancelot.”

Maitz is the original creator of the Captain Morgan Spiced Rum character and an award-winning cover artist of more than 300 books, magazines, game art, and advertising for National Geographic, DC & Marvel Comics, Paramount, and Warner Pictures, among others. Maitz twice won science fiction’s Hugo Award for Best Artist, and he has exhibited in over 40 museums.

Chudzinski noted that the exhibit also highlights several “cryptids,” which are creatures whose existence is not yet scientifically proven. One of these is the curator’s own sculpture of the Loveland, Ohio Frogman.

Three other pieces feature a jackalope, a jackrabbit with antelope horns. These are an oil painting by Alan Douglas, and a skeleton and sculpture by Chudzinski.

Other participating artists in the exhibit are Iris Compiet, Allen Douglas, Quintin Gleim, Scott Gustafson, James Herrmann, Kelley Hensing, Elliot Lang, Ashly Lovett, Don Maitz, Jason Mowry, Reiko Murakami, Colin Nitta, Kristine Poole, Ruth Sanderson, Danny Schwartz, Chris Sickles, Andrew Sides, Melissa Stanley, Alex Stone, Jeremy Wilson, and Janny Wurts.

A reception will take place Tuesday, July 15, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., with a gallery tour and some of the artists attending to discuss their work.

Many of the pieces of artwork on display are available for purchase, with all of the proceeds going to the artists.

For more information on the exhibit, visit mazzamuseum.org.