(From the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation)

The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation Board of Trustees approved grants totaling $901,443.87 at the August board meeting. This total includes 11 responsive grants and 46 donor advised fund grants.

“These grants represent our commitment to our community’s priorities,” said Brian Treece, President & CEO of The Community Foundation. “From affordable community activities to food security and safety, we are here to support our friends, families and neighbors by improving the quality of life for all in the community.”

Responsive Grants

Responsive grants are awarded to organizations that meet community needs and match The Community Foundation’s goals and objectives. Grantseekers must submit a written grant proposal for consideration. Applications are reviewed four times per year.

Funding for responsive grants comes from our Community’s Endowment, which is comprised of Funds for the Common Good and Field of Interest Funds established by donors at The Community Foundation. The following responsive grants were approved by the Board of Trustees, made possible by our Community’s Endowment:

• Black Heritage Library and Multicultural Center was awarded $5,000 to support four free cultural events as part of the Foundation’s Fun for All series of free community events.

• The Community Foundation was awarded multiple grants:
  • Grants totaling $350,000 for upcoming challenge grants and matching grants related to community priorities, including the recently launched Community Housing Challenge.
  • $133,960 was awarded for the Organizational Strengthening program to support nonprofits in 2026.

• Flag City Sluggers was awarded $2,400 for free admission to a Sluggers’ game as part of the Foundation’s Fun for All series of free community events.

• Hancock Properties Foundation was awarded $10,000 to support design work for facility improvements.

• Lima Symphony Orchestra was awarded $2,500 to support three free Symphony Storytime performances as part of the Foundation’s Fun for All series of free community events.

• Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation was awarded $1,060 to support a weekend of free admission to the railroad as part of the Foundation’s Fun for All series of free community events.

• West Ohio Food Bank was awarded $50,000 to purchase additional food for low-income seniors, children and families.

Donor Advised Grants

Individuals, families or corporations establish donor advised funds to recommend grants to nonprofits they’re passionate about. The Foundation vets the nonprofits, and grants are awarded. The following donor advised grants were awarded:

• 46 grants to 32 organizations totaling $333.523.87.

(By Sheri Trusty, Seneca County Sheriff’s Office Public Relations Coordinator)

On Aug. 26, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost released an opinion regarding contract agreements between federal immigration authorities and counties that host Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities, such as Seneca County. Yost’s opinion stated that “county commissioners may enter into an agreement with federal immigration authorities,” but “county sheriffs do not have independent contracting authority for this purpose.”

The Attorney General’s opinion has no impact on Seneca County Jail operations because the original contract between the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service and the Seneca County Jail was signed by then-Seneca County Commissioners Timothy Rook and Kenneth Estep. The contract is dated March 1, 1996.

A subsequent amendment to the contract made the terms of the contract “indefinite.” The change reads: “This agreement shall be in effect upon execution by both parties, and shall remain in effect indefinitely, unless terminated sooner in writing, by either party…” The amendment was signed on Feb. 13, 2003, by then-Seneca County Commissioners Tom Distel, Jimmie Young, and Joe Schock.

“I checked with our county prosecutor, county administrator, and county commissioners to verify the information on our contract, and we are in full compliance with the Attorney General’s opinion,” said Seneca County Sheriff Fredrick Stevens.

Attorney General Yost’s Opinion No. 2025-015 included two additional statements in the syllabus regarding a 48-hour limit on detention of “an alien” when no contract is in place and regarding transportation of “aliens detained for violations of immigration law.” Neither of these statements apply to the Seneca County Jail because it is in compliance with the first element regarding contractual agreements.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) released a statement saying, “The ACLU of Ohio demanded the county sheriffs immediately release the immigrants who are being held unlawfully and immediately cease carrying out any unlawful immigration enforcement.”

The Seneca County Jail houses only illegal immigrants, and it is operating in full compliance with the law and the Attorney General’s opinion. Sheriff Stevens wants to ensure the public that, if county officials had determined otherwise, the Seneca County Jail would not have immediately released illegal immigrants into the public. Jail leadership would have arranged to have the detainees transported to another ICE facility.

“We would not let illegal immigrants wander throughout Seneca County,” Sheriff Stevens said.

(From the United Way of Hancock County)

United Way of Hancock County is “smashing” into campaign season with a community pickleball tournament.

This round robin-style tournament will be held from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9, at Findlay’s Riverside Park. Participants must be 18 or older and the tournament will feature men’s, women’s and mixed doubles.

The entry fee is $100 per team, and 100% of each team’s registration fee will go directly toward United Way-funded programming that serves 1 in 4 people in Hancock County.

Thanks to the generosity of a local donor, scholarships are available for those who cannot cover the registration cost. Call the United Way at 419-423-1432 to discuss this opportunity.

All who enter will receive a free one-month membership to Jim’s Gym, along with one free Ninja course. The winning team will walk away with a custom trophy made by Kan Du Studio. Sign up by visiting www.uwhancock.org and clicking the ‘Pickleball Registration’ button at the top right.

United Way of Hancock County’s 2025 Annual Campaign runs through Nov. 21, with additional events planned and opportunities for workplace and individual giving. This year’s campaign goal is $1.8 million, and all money raised will stay in Hancock County.

(From the Ohio State Highway Patrol)

The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) is urging all motorists to prioritize safety as they travel Ohio roadways this Labor Day weekend. Troopers will focus enforcement efforts on removing impaired drivers from the roads to ensure everyone’s journey is a safe one.

The Patrol’s 2025 Labor Day weekend reporting period begins on Friday, August 29 at midnight and concludes on Monday, September 1 at 11:59 p.m.

“It is important everyone celebrates the Labor Day weekend responsibly,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “That means designating a sober driver before you go out, ensuring all occupants are wearing their safety belt and putting all distractions away before you drive.”

During the 2024 Labor Day holiday weekend, 17 fatal crashes occurred on Ohio roadways, resulting in 18 deaths. Of those fatal crashes, 14 were OVI-related. Of the 10 fatalities where safety belts were available, nine were unbelted. Additionally, troopers made 382 arrests for impaired driving and issued 932 citations for distracted driving during the reporting period. Motorists can contribute to a safer Ohio by calling #677 to report drug activity and dangerous or impaired driving on Ohio roadways.

(From the Findlay Rotary Club)

Continuing top tier success is an emphasis of The University of Toledo’s athletic programs, and Bryan Blair, Toledo’s Director of Athletics, proudly shared many facts about the Rockets’ ascension while speaking at the Findlay Rotary Club’s Wednesday meeting.

Toledo ranks No. 3 among all Division 1 teams in combined winning percentage for football, men’s basketball and women’s basketball (Ohio State is No. 1), and continues to churn out teams with extraordinary success and athletes with professional careers.

“Everyone longs for the good ole’ days,” Blair said. “These are the good ole’ days of Toledo athletics. The goal is to make it last.”

Blair offered many strategies the university is employing to make that happen. He wants to continue to grow the in-game experience and community engagement through events on campus, making Rockets athletics a large part of the student experience.

“How do we continue to surprise people,” is a question he often asks.

He emphasized the importance of student-athletes, and said Toledo’s mix of academics and athletics makes it a desirable location. Rockets athletes carry a cumulative 3.3 grade point average, and 40 percent of student athletes are in engineering or business tracks.

Success both in the field and in the classroom is important to Blair.

“We want that meaningful degree in one hand and a championship ring on the other,” he said.

Blair spoke of the culture he hopes to foster in his department — “what you celebrate and what you tolerate,” he said — and that every athletics employee has undergone artificial intelligence (AI) training. Continuing to look ahead, whether it is to find applications for AI or navigating college athletics’ ever-changing landscape, is paramount to someone in his role, he said.

Blair also spoke to the natural connection between The University of Toledo and the Findlay area, with many UT graduates in greater Hancock County. He also mentioned of the natural tie between this area’s employers and Toledo’s engineering, healthcare and business programs.

Blair spoke of his excitement of the Rockets’ men’s basketball team opening the season most years with an exhibition game against the Oilers at The University of Findlay’s Croy Gymnasium.

(From the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts)

The Marathon Center for the Performing Arts (MCPA) is proud to announce the election of four distinguished community members to its Board of Directors: Dr. Sarah Fedirka, Keturah Harding Pohl, Cole McMath, and Reginald Routson. These new board members bring a wealth of expertise in education, business, community leadership, and the arts, further strengthening MCPA’s commitment to serving as a cultural cornerstone for Hancock County and the surrounding region.

Dr. Sarah Fedirka

Dr. Fedirka is Senior Lead for Mission and Identity and Director of the Watterson Center at University of Findlay. Prior to this role, she was an associate professor and English department chair, specializing in modernist literature. She has served on the University President’s Financial Advisory Board and chaired the Freed Contemporary Christian Lecture Series. A Hancock Leadership alumna, Dr. Fedirka is deeply engaged in the community through scholarship review, board service, and ethical leadership. Her appreciation for the arts and dedication to humanities education inspire her advocacy for MCPA’s mission.

Keturah Harding Pohl

As CEO and Director of Operations for Putnam Family Dental, Keturah Harding Pohl oversees strategic growth and financial operations for multiple offices. She is the former national board chair for the University of Kansas Alumni Association and has led several major fundraising and construction initiatives. Locally, she has served with the Hope House Board, Findlay Service League, and downtown redevelopment projects. A lifelong arts supporter, she looks forward to bringing her facilities and nonprofit management expertise to MCPA.

Cole McMath

Director of Market Development at Pain Management Group, Cole McMath leads initiatives to expand market presence and optimize operations. His background includes overseeing six ventures generating more than $6 million in revenue, as well as extensive experience in stakeholder communication and community service with organizations such as the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation. A devoted patron of MCPA’s Live @ Armes series, he is eager to help grow the organization’s cultural reach.

Reginald Routson

A lifelong Findlay resident, Reginald Routson served for 35 years as a judge in the Findlay Municipal and Hancock County Common Pleas Courts. In addition to his judicial career, he has been a committed community volunteer, serving on several nonprofit boards including the YMCA. As a lifelong musician with the “Reunion Band,” he has helped raise more than $300,000 for charitable causes in Hancock County. His deep connections as a patron, performer, renter, and producer at MCPA bring a unique perspective to the board.

“These board members bring not only professional excellence, but also a deep personal commitment to the arts and our community,” said Heather J. Clow, MCPA Executive Director. “Their diverse backgrounds will help guide MCPA as we continue to inspire, educate, and connect people through the performing arts.”

(From the Alzheimer’s Association Northwest Ohio Chapter)

The Alzheimer’s Association Northwest Ohio Chapter is hosting several free programs this month, including:

Healthy Living for your Brain and Body

Wednesday, September 17, 11:30 am

Findlay YMCA, Downtown Branch, 300 E. Lincoln St, Findlay

Please register at the front desk or email asertell@findlayymca.com

• Join us to learn about research in the areas of nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement, and use hands-on tools to help you incorporate these recommendations into a plan for healthy aging.

Healthy Living for the Brain and Body

Tuesday, September 23, 5:00 pm

Putnam County Library, 118 E. Main St, Pandora

Please call 419.523.3747, ext. 214 to register

• Attendees will learn about science-backed lifestyle choices that may help keep the brain and body healthy as someone ages. Join to learn about research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement, and learn about hands-on tools to create a plan for healthy aging.

Introduction to Alzheimer’s

Wednesday, September 24, 5:00 pm

Leipsic Community Center, 120 E Main Street, Leipsic

To register, please call 800.272.3900

• Enjoy a brief discussion about 10 Healthy Habits you can start today to keep your brain healthy as you age and the warning signs to monitor in yourself and others.

“These programs offer valuable information both about Alzheimer’s disease in general and the behaviors caused by dementia,” said Pam Myers, senior director, programs for the Alzheimer’s Association Central Ohio and Northwest Ohio Chapters. “Whether your family is just facing an Alzheimer’s diagnosis or you’ve been living with the disease for years, it can be challenging to know where to turn when you have questions. We can help.”

For the first time, the number of people living with Alzheimer’s disease in the U.S. is more than 7 million. That includes 236,200 in Ohio, according to the 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. Deaths due to Alzheimer’s more than doubled (142%) between 2000 and 2022, while deaths from the leading cause of mortality (heart disease) decreased by 2.1%. 

To learn more about Alzheimer’s or other dementia and to access free local support and resources, visit alz.org/nwohio or call the Northwest Ohio Chapter at 419.537.1999 or the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.

(From Blanchard Valley Center)

If there ever were an image for the phrase, ‘beaming with pride, this is it.

Meet Emily. Emily just finished her two-year commitment with Project LIFE, gaining the skills she needs to be successful in the workforce.

Why does this matter? People like Emily WANT the opportunity to work. People like Emily WANT to be productive members in the community. People like Emily WANT to make friends and live a life they want to live.

Emily has put in the work, learning what it takes to be a good employee – showing up to work on time, having a good attitude, taking initiative, and so much more.

We are so proud of Emily and wish her the absolute best as she continues her journey into the workforce. We look forward to hearing about her successes in the future because we know she’s determined!

Pictured:
Shane Fredritz, Transition Coordinator (BVC)
Josh Teegardin, Transition Coordinator (BVC)
Emily Weber, Project LIFE Intern
Dan Burket, BVC Board President
Lisa Weber, Proud Mom!

(From the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library)

The Findlay-Hancock County Public Library is offering the following programs the week of September 1-6, 2025:

The library will be closed on Monday, September 1 for Labor Day.

At 4 p.m. on Tuesday in the Younger Room, our Teen Adaptive Mixed Media Drop-In sessions offer a peaceful and supportive space to express your creativity. With crafts tailored to be sensory-friendly, participants can enjoy a range of crafts that are both calming and engaging. This program is designed for teens in grades 6-12.

Creative writers – if you’re tired of writing alone, come write with other adults! Bring your own work-in-progress or start fresh with one of our prompts. We meet at Coffee Amici in downtown Findlay on Wednesday at 6 p.m.

Another spectacular Virtual Author Talk is scheduled for Wednesday at 7 p.m. Join us in a virtual conversation with Hannah Nicole Maehrer, creator of the New York Times bestselling Assistant to the Villain series. Read more about the book and register for this discussion at findlaylibrary.org/events. This program is presented in partnership with the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts.

The 50 North Book Discussion group at will meet on Thursday at 10 a.m. at 339 E. Melrose Ave. in the Younger Room at 50 North. This month’s selection is The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab.

Join us for art, science, and engineering projects in our Makerspace. This month, we will be learning how to use colorful clay to make 3-D paintings! Children 8 and under should be accompanied by an adult. Makerspace for Homeschoolers is at 2 p.m., and Makerspace is at 6 p.m. with both taking place in the Lindamood Room.

Stay in touch and keep updated at www.findlaylibrary.org, on our Facebook page, facebook.com/fhcpl, and on Instagram @ fhcpl.

(From Blanchard Valley Health System)

Blanchard Valley Health System (BVHS) has introduced exciting enhancements to its public-facing website’s “Find-a-Doc” section, making it more convenient and user-friendly for the community.

Every member of the BVHS medical staff will be listed in the “Find-a-Doc” section, and employed physicians and advanced practice providers will be highlighted with the system’s iconic green apple symbol next to their profiles. This simple visual cue helps patients identify BVHS-employed providers at a glance.

If a person is not yet established with a primary care provider, they can call the Blanchard Valley Medical Practices physician referral line at 419.422.APPT to be connected with a provider who best meets their needs.

“These updates are part of our ongoing effort to make healthcare more accessible and connected for the people we serve,” said Amy J. Leach, MS, Director of Corporate PR and Marketing. “By enhancing provider profiles, we are improving convenience and user-friendliness and showcasing BVHS as a trusted, connected care network. We remain committed to providing our region the highest quality of service.”

The improvements to “Find-a-Doc” reflect BVHS’s mission to continually evolve and adapt to the community’s needs while ensuring patients have the tools to make informed decisions about their care.

For more information or to explore the updated “Find-a-Doc” section, visit bvhealthsystem.org.