(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 City of Findlay)

You’re invited to join Mayor Christina Muryn for the 2025 Playball with the Mayor event on July 16 featuring the Flag City Sluggers!

Youth will participate in drill stations followed by a softball game at the Miracle Field.

T-shirts will be given to participants courtesy of the United States Conference of Mayors.

After the Playball game, head over to the Sluggers game where admission will be free thanks to The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation‘s Fun for All series of free community events.

Tickets are first come, first served.

See more details in the below flyer.

We hope you’ll join us for a night of free community fun!

(From the Ohio Department of Transportation)

Avoid the I-75/CR 99 interchange in the city of Findlay today, Friday, June 13, if possible.

A traffic switch is happening, which involves moving the signals, barrier wall, traffic barrels, and restriping. If you go this way, expect delays. Plan your route accordingly.

The traffic pattern switch on County Road 99 will divert traffic to the south side and onto the new bridge. This will allow crews to start rehabilitation work on the original bridge.

The project is reconstructing the interchange with a diverging diamond design and upgrading the County Road 99 corridor between Technology Drive and North Main Street. Visit the project webpage: PID 102375.

The Findlay City Planning Commission approved the applications for two cannabis dispensaries.

One will be located at 2205 Tiffin Avenue, which was formerly a Dollar General, and the other will be located at 1501 West Main Cross Street, which was formerly Guaranteed Auto.

The application for the location on Tiffin Avenue was filed by Curaleaf OGT Inc., and the application for West Main Cross was filed by Trulieve, Oh Inc.

The applications for conditional use were approved on the condition that the applicants comply with all requirements from the Ohio Division of Cannabis Control.

Earlier in the year, Findlay City Council approved an ordinance creating the zoning code to allow for the retail sale of cannabis in the city for recreational or medical use.

A Cannabis Overlay District allowing for adult-use cannabis dispensaries has been added to the Findlay Zoning code.

The city said the purpose of the Cannabis Overlay District allows for up to two dispensaries to operate in the city.

The district regulations are designed to encourage compatibility with adjacent or nearby land uses, the city said.

The overlay district consists of four areas:

Tiffin Avenue

I-75 exit 161 / CR 99

Trenton Avenue (west of I-75)

West Main Cross Street / I-75

The city previously placed a 12 month moratorium on the establishment of dispensaries.

Ohio voters approved the legalization of recreational marijuana in November of 2023.

(Press release from the Ohio High School Athletic Association)

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Several significant changes highlight the 2025 Ohio High School Athletic Association football playoff regulations that were approved Thursday by the OHSAA Board of Directors. The number of qualifiers per region will be 12 instead of 16, with the top four seeds in each region earning a first-round bye. In addition, the first three rounds of the postseason will be hosted by the higher seeded team instead of the first two rounds.

From 1999 through 2019, eight schools per region qualified for the playoffs, which was a five-week tournament. In early 2020, the OHSAA approved a proposal from the Ohio High School Football Coaches Association to expand to 12 qualifiers per region, which added a week to the postseason. Shortly after that, the Covid-19 pandemic greatly affected high school sports, and the OHSAA allowed every school to participate in the 2020 playoffs since schools played a varying number of games. The positive feedback from schools that season prompted the OHSAA to expand from 12 to 16 qualifiers per region from 2021-24.

“For the last few years, we have been pleased that more schools experienced the football playoffs, and there were some lower seeds that won playoff games,” said Doug Ute, OHSAA Executive Director. “But over the last year, we have received feedback from our schools, with a slight majority favoring 12 qualifiers per region, and we had many conversations with stakeholders around the state that led us to make this proposal to our board. We appreciate the feedback we received and will continue to gather comments moving forward. Like we do with all of our sports, we want to make sure the student-athletes are our No. 1 priority.”

With the top four seeds in each region receiving a first-round bye, the first-round parings include the No. 12 seed playing at the No. 5 seed, No. 11 at No. 6, No. 10 at No. 7 and No. 9 and No. 8. In the second round, the No. 1 seed will host the winner of No. 12 vs. No. 5, the No. 2 seed will host the winner of No. 11 vs. No. 6, the No. 3 seed will host the winner of No. 10 vs. No. 7, and the No. 4 seed will host the winner of No. 8 vs. No. 9.

There are no changes to the 2025 divisional breakdowns and regional assignments announced by the OHSAA on May 1. The 2025 divisions and regions are posted at: https://www.ohsaa.org/Sports-Tournaments/Football/Football-2025

(Press release from the Hancock METRICH Enforcement Unit)

On 6/11/25 at approx. 2200hrs the Hancock County METRICH Drug Task Force assisted by the Findlay Police Department Emergency Response Team (ERT) executed a narcotic search warrant at 119 Tioga Ave Findlay, OH 45840.

The search of the residence yielded suspected methamphetamine, suspected pressed pills, paraphernalia, cash, and multiple items indicative of drug trafficking.

As a result of the search the following persons were arrested and incarcerated at the Hancock County Justice Center:

Brandon Navarro (42 year old)
119 Tioga Ave
Findlay, Ohio
Fresh Charge: Possession of Drugs Schedule II (Methamphetamine) Felony of the third degree

Joseph Lee (44 year old)
119 Tioga Ave
Findlay, Ohio
Charge: Arrest warrant through Fostoria PD and the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office for possession of drugs.
Fresh charge of Possession of Drugs Schedule II (Methamphetamine) Felony of the fifth degree.

Additional charges of drug trafficking and possession of drugs are expected at the conclusion of this investigation.

(Press Release from Findlay/Hanock County Habitat for Humanity)

In celebration of 25 years of building homes, hope, and community in Hancock County, Habitat for Humanity of Findlay/Hancock County and WesBanco invites the public to attend Habitat for Humanity Day on Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Riverside Park (231 McManness Avenue, Findlay, OH 45840) near the volleyball courts.

This free, family-friendly event promises an afternoon of fun, food, and connection. Attendees will enjoy bouncy houses, yard games, a cookout, and raffle prizes, all in the spirit of community celebration and learning more about Habitat’s mission and impact.

“Marking 25 years of service to Findlay and Hancock County is an incredible milestone,” said Wendy McCormick, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Findlay/Hancock County. “Habitat Day is a chance for us to say thank you to the community that has supported our mission and to share how families can get involved — whether by volunteering, donating, or applying to become a Habitat homeowner.”

Presented by WesBanco and in partnership with the Findlay YMCA, Hancock Park District, the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce and Scouting America, the event also offers an opportunity to learn more about Habitat’s current projects, including the neighborhood in the Krystal Ridge Addition, where Habitat aims to build 20 homes by the end of 2027. Since completing its first home in 2000, Habitat for Humanity of Findlay/Hancock County has built 64 homes and completed more than 200 home repair projects.

For more information about the event or how to get involved with Habitat for Humanity, visit www.habitatfindlay.org or call 419-429-1400.

(From the Chamber of Commerce Agri-Business Committee)

The Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce & the Hancock County Agriculture Hall of Fame is proud to announce the induction of four outstanding individuals at the annual Farmers Share Breakfast.

This year, we honor Michael Biery, S. David DeVore, Paul William Lauck, Sr., and John E. Wolfe for their remarkable contributions to agriculture and the community.

The breakfast was held on June 12, 2025 at the Old Millstream Centre with 350 people in attendance.

Michael Biery

Mike Biery’s agricultural journey began in his youth, working alongside his father, Dean Biery, in their Purebred Duroc pig operation. This early experience ignited a lifelong passion for agriculture, leading Mike to establish a 1200-acre grain farm with his family, focusing on corn, beans, and wheat while continuing to raise Purebred Durocs for 4-H projects and market. Beyond farming, Mike played a pivotal role in the community, serving on the boards of Blanchard Valley Farmers Co-Op and Hancock County Farm Bureau. He co-founded the Cory-Rawson FFA alumni association, championing Junior Fair Livestock Auctions and volunteering for FFA programs. Mike’s dedication extended regionally as an elected trustee of the Northwest Ohio Antique Machinery Association, where he curated displays and promoted agricultural history. Recognized with an Honorary FFA Degree in 2015, Mike Biery’s legacy as a servant leader, mentor, and advocate for agriculture leaves an enduring impact on Hancock County and beyond. Biery was honored posthumously.

 David DeVore

Born in 1943, Dave DeVore has been a dedicated resident of Hancock County for 81 years, devoting his life to farming since the age of 8. He began farming independently in 1961, growing his operation to roughly 1,000 acres and 100 head of sheep, and continues to farm today alongside his son-in-law. A lifelong member of the Hancock County Farm Bureau—where he served as President—Dave has also been an active member of the Hancock County Ag Council since 1988 and the Agri-Business Committee since 1989. He played a key role in establishing the Hancock County Ag Hall of Fame in 2006. Beyond the county, Dave has represented Ohio Farm Bureau at national conferences and met with legislators in Washington, D.C. to advocate for agriculture. He earned his State Farmer Degree in 1960 and remains deeply involved in both agricultural and faith communities, serving as a trustee and food pantry donor at Good Shepherd Church in Benton Ridge. Dave’s lifelong commitment to agriculture and helping others has made a lasting impact across Hancock County and beyond.

Paul William Lauck, Sr.

Born in 1917, Paul William Lauck, Sr. devoted his entire 100 years as a Hancock County resident to farming and community service. A lifelong grain and vegetable farmer, he cultivated corn, soybeans, wheat, tomatoes for Campbell’s, and pickles—farming 720 acres alongside his brother, Forest. Paul was a local pioneer in agricultural innovation, among the first in the county to use drainage tile and anhydrous ammonia, while also implementing conservation practices like grass waterways and crop rotation. After a farm accident in 1945 resulted in the loss of his right hand, Paul’s determination never wavered, he adapted and continued farming, always advocating for farm safety. His service extended beyond the fields, serving as a supervisor for the Hancock Soil and Water Conservation District from 1955 to 1961, earning two conservation awards and being named Outstanding Farmer of the Year in 1961. A devoted member of Houcktown United Methodist Church, Paul served as Sunday School Superintendent, treasurer, and teacher. In retirement, he shared his love of woodworking through handcrafted gifts, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, innovation, and service. Lauck was honored posthumously.

John E. Wolfe

John E. Wolfe is a lifelong resident of Hancock County and a third-generation farmer, carrying on the legacy of Wolfe’s Produce which was founded over 80 years ago by his grandparents, Howard and Rose Wolfe, and later run by his father, Richard Wolfe. John began working on the farm in grade school and chose to forgo college football at Findlay College to fully dedicate himself to the family operation. As the full-time owner of Wolfe’s Produce, he is known for growing high-quality sweet corn, pumpkins, and other vegetables, using both conventional and no-till practices while embracing innovation rooted in tradition. A mentor to young farmers and a resource to peers across county lines, John has played a vital role in advancing agricultural practices regionally. He also serves his community as a Marion Township Trustee, a member of the Republican Central Committee, and an active member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church. Each fall, Wolfe’s Produce brings vibrant seasonal offerings to Northwest Ohio and beyond, making John a cornerstone of local agriculture and a model of dedication, service, and hard work.

Please join us in honoring Michael Biery, S. David DeVore, Paul William Lauck, Sr., and John E. Wolfe as the newest inductees into the Hancock County Agriculture Hall of Fame. 

About Hancock County Agriculture Hall of Fame:
The Hancock County Agriculture Hall of Fame, run by the OSU Extension Office, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the agricultural industry and the community. Through recognition and celebration of these achievements, the Hall of Fame aims to inspire future generations of agricultural leaders.

The Marathon Center for the Performing Arts has released its Mainstage Series lineup for the new season.

The lineup includes The Book of Mormon on September 25, 2025, Straight No Chaser on October 17, 2025, Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol on December 4, 2025, Richard Thomas in Mark Twain Tonight! by Hal Holbrook on February 22, 2026, and Chris Thile on April 8, 2026.

The member-only season ticket presale goes from June 10 until June 13 at 11 a.m.

The season ticket public sale begins June 13 at 11 a.m.

Click here for more details.

(From the University of Findlay)

The University of Findlay’s Board of Trustees welcomes two new members this spring: environmental management executive Vincent Passaro ’81 and engineering firm president Conlan Swope.

“These new board members are leaders in their industries who will offer valuable governance from their professional experiences,” UF President Katherine Fell, Ph.D., said. “We look forward to working alongside them to support our students and advance the University.”

Passaro, who earned a bachelor of science in biology at Findlay College in 1981, is the vice president of marketing/business development at Groundwater & Environmental Services, Inc., a large environmental consulting and engineering company headquartered in New Jersey.

His career accomplishments include building a company of five employees into a company of 100, making it one of the fastest-growing privately-held companies on the Inc. 500 list.

He managed the City of Cincinnati’s environmental term contract for nine years to help the city progress with economic development projects along the riverfront. He also facilitated the winning proposals for three large water treatment plant design-build projects ranging from $20 to $160 million in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Since 1988, he has served as a technical expert at the National Institute of Standards & Technology.

At UF, Passaro and his wife Victoria Nager-Passaro have generously donated to the Findlay Fund and Findlay Forward Scholarship, and he has spoken on campus, encouraging current students in their studies and sharing his life experiences with them. In 2024, he received a Distinguished Alumnus Award.

“As a proud alumnus, I am enthusiastic to support UF in any capacity where my 40+ years of business/strategic planning experience can be used to continue the success it has experienced, and more importantly achieve its current and future mission,” Passaro said. “This is just one way for me to give back to the University that provided me with opportunities of a lifetime.”

Swope is the president of Warfel Construction, in East Petersburg, Pennsylvania, which is a fullservice construction management company serving industries across the Mid-Atlantic region. He has worked at Warfel since 2008, ascending through roles of increasing responsibility, and is dedicated to the firm’s mission of “Clients for Life.”

He holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Penn State University and is a LEED (Leadership in Environmental Energy and Design) accredited professional.

A member of New Providence Church of God, he also serves on the Crossroads Mission Haiti board of directors and has frequently traveled to Haiti to assist in building a school, orphanage, and church.

“I am thrilled to join the UF community as a trustee and uphold our strong legacy as we continue to provide more engaging experiences for the student body, preparing them for the next stages of their lives,” Swope said. “It is a blessing to serve alongside so many fantastic trustees and faculty members. The future is bright!”