(From Habitat for Humanity of Findlay/Hancock County)

Habitat for Humanity of Findlay/Hancock County will officially finish construction of three homes during a Home Dedication ceremony for all three homes on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. in the 1700 block of Bishop Lane, Findlay, Ohio. The event is open to the public.

The program for the dedication will include a blessing, words from Dream Builder Society members as well as the new homeowners, comments from Wendy McCormick, Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity of Findlay/Hancock County and Kelly Croy, Habitat’s Board President. Following the ceremony, homeowners will cut ribbons and enter their new homes for the first time. Guests are welcome to then tour the homes.

These are the first three of six homes to be built by Habitat for Humanity of Findlay/Hancock County in 2025. They are the third, fourth and fifth of 20 homes Habitat will build in the Krystal Ridge Addition neighborhood by the end of 2027. The first two homes were built in the fall of 2024.

“This year we are celebrating 25 years of building community in Findlay and Hancock County, and we can’t be more excited,” says Wendy McCormick, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Findlay/Hancock County. “We can’t wait to celebrate the completion of the first three homes of our biggest build year yet to close the gap on the affordable housing shortage in our community.”

Kara Summers and her two daughters will reside in Home #62. For them, the idea of “home” once felt more like a wish than a certainty. Kara works as a State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA), caring for others even as she dreams of becoming a nurse herself. Despite her determination, life has thrown its share of obstacles in her way. Housing in Findlay was either way too expensive or simply unavailable. One afternoon, Kara came across a newspaper article about Habitat for Humanity’s Financial Opportunity Center (FOC). Something about the program resonated with her. Kara became the very first FOC coaching client in 2021. After paying down debts and stabilizing her employment, Kara and her girls were selected as a Habitat Partner Family. For the Summers family, their new home represents security, stability, and a place to grow.

Amanda Gault and her 12-year-old daughter will reside in Home #63. For the past seven years they have called the basement of Amanda’s parents’ home. The space was full of love, but it wasn’t their own. The houses Amanda could afford to purchase needed significant repairs – more than she could take on. The stress of not having their own home weighed heavily on her. Amanda’s mom had been urging her to look into Habitat for quite some time. Finally, in January 2024, Amanda took a leap of faith. From that first meeting with Habitat, Amanda began to feel hope again. She learned how to manage her spending with guidance from the Financial Opportunity Center (FOC). Amanda began to feel more in control of their future. Amanda knows this home will be more than a place to live. It’s a fresh start, a foundation for their future, and a space where they can create new memories together. It will be “a place to call home.”

Chris Greiner will reside in Home #64. Her journey is one of unwavering resilience, love, and the quiet strength of a mother who never gave up. Born and raised in Findlay, her life has been anything but easy, but her heart has always been full of hope, determination, and an unbreakable drive to create a better life for her family. She raised her twin children as a single parent, always working full-time – sometimes even holding down two jobs just to make ends meet. Despite the challenges, Chris made sure that her kids had everything they needed: food, shelter, and love. Even though she worked tirelessly, the dream of owning her own home always felt out of reach, a distant star just beyond her grasp. She spent years working so hard, and now, after so many setbacks, she finally has a home of her own, a place where her children, her grandchildren, and even her cat can thrive in a space that is hers and hers alone.

During the past 10 weeks the three new homeowners have worked alongside more than 600 volunteers to build their homes. The Summers, Gault and Greiner families qualified as a low-income family unable to qualify for a conventional loan, who are willing to partner with Habitat and complete at least 400 sweat equity hours and purchase their home from Habitat through a 30-year low-interest mortgage.

Two of the spring homes are Signature Homes, which were financed by the donors who bought a “piece of the house” during Habitat’s 2024 Signature Fundraiser. Through donations of money and materials and volunteer labor, Habitat is able to build a Habitat Home and sell it at an affordable price. Major sponsors for the spring build include ADP, the City of Findlay, GSW, Kershner Excavating, Kreate, Marathon, McNaughton-McKay, National Lime & Stone, Ohio Logistics, The Reinhart Foundation, The Shelly Company, State Farm – Dan Maciejewski, Van Horn Hoover & Associates and Whirlpool.

The most recent housing study released last year indicated the Findlay community needs 150 single-family homes, costing less than $200,000, constructed during the next five years. Families seeking to become homeowners in the Krystal Ridge Addition can apply with Habitat for Humanity by visiting habitatfindlay.org or calling 419-429-1400.

(From Blanchard Valley Health System)

Blanchard Valley Health System is proud to highlight Kristina Junge as our June Associate of the Month!

As patient relations liaison, Kristina oversees the management of patient complaints and grievances, providing timely and effective resolution in compliance with regulatory standards.

Kristina has been a part of #TeamBVHS for an outstanding 28 years, making a meaningful impact through her dedication to providing support for patients, families, and her fellow associates.

Kristina’s patience, resilience, empathy, and attentiveness shine through her work.

Thank you, Kristina, for all that you do.

(From the Tiffin Police Department)

Over the past two weeks, Tiffin has experienced a rise in vehicle break-ins. These incidents are occurring across the city and are not limited to any one neighborhood. While Tiffin Police Department officers are actively investigating and working to identify those responsible, we need your help to prevent further thefts.

Thieves are not targeting specific items—they’re looking for anything of value left behind. From spare change to electronics, purses, bags, tools, and more—if it’s visible, it’s a target.

Here are a few simple but effective steps you can take to protect your vehicle and belongings:

• Lock your doors – Many of these break-ins involve unlocked cars. Always lock up, even when parked in your own driveway.
• Remove all valuables – Don’t leave wallets, purses, electronics, or even small items in plain sight. If possible, take everything inside.
• Park smart – Choose well-lit areas or park close to your home. Use your garage if you have one.
• Install security measures – Dash cams, motion lights, and home security cameras can deter crime and help us identify suspects.
• Report suspicious activity – If you see someone trying door handles or acting suspiciously, call us right away at (419) 447-2323.

Your awareness and quick reporting make a huge difference. If you’ve been a victim or have any video footage that might help, please reach out to us. Let’s work together to keep Tiffin safe!

Thank you,

Chief Pauly

(From Findlay City Schools)

We are so excited to host Hancock County’s Summer Lunch Program, offering FREE lunches to everyone in our county under 18 years old!

June 9-July 31

Mondays-Thursdays (with a meal to take home for Friday!)

11:30-12:30

Glenwood Middle School

1715 North Main Street

There will be activities provided each day, so this is more than just a meal…it’s fun, too!

Adult Meals are available for $4.25!

We have so much incredible help to make this amazing summer opportunity available.

Thank you to Findlay YMCA and VFW Post 5645 for your support, as well as the support of our entire community to take care of our kids when they’re away from school for the summer. 

(From the City of Findlay)

Mayor Christina Muryn has issued a proclamation declaring June 5, 2025, as Harold “Puck” Rowe Day in Findlay, Ohio, and invites all citizens to join with her in recognizing and celebrating his remarkable leadership, compassion, and enduring service. May his example continue to inspire us all to build a stronger, more caring community.

Mayor Muryn presented the proclamation during the Welcome to a New Life Annual Recognition Breakfast on Thursday morning, an organization that Puck co-founded. 

Read the full proclamation below or by clicking here.

WHEREAS: Harold “Puck” Rowe brings strong leadership to both business and the community. He was employed at Columbia Gas of Ohio for 40 years, where he worked in budgeting, human and employee relations, public relations and community relations. He used his skills not only to lead in the corporate world but also to transform his community through tireless service; and

WHEREAS: Puck served on three church boards of trustees and chaired multiple successful fundraising campaigns for various congregations. He also chaired major campaigns for the local YMCA and United Way, raising over $6.8 million. During his time with United Way, he served as board president and founded the Gaslight Society, which has raised millions more for local causes; and

WHEREAS: Puck’s commitment extends across the community. He served on the boards of the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation, YMCA, Junior Achievement, Boy Scouts, Rotary Club, and Camp Fire. For 20 years, he was a key member of the executive committee and served as chairman of the Community Development Foundation, helping lead the successful merger of The Alliance. Puck was part of the pioneering group that fostered Findlay’s relationship with Japan; and

WHEREAS: In 2018, Stan Kujawa approached Puck with a bold vision: to support individuals struggling with incarceration and addiction. After gathering insights from over 200 community members, they co-founded Welcome to a New Life. The organization was formally established as a 501(c)(3) in 2019. Since then, it has helped countless individuals and their families begin again with hope and support. Puck has been the driving force behind the program, constantly making connections and encouraging involvement as mentors, mentees, donors, and community partners. He’s always finding ways to support the mission, whether it’s visiting someone in jail, attending a court hearing, or offering a ride to someone in need.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Christina M. Muryn, Mayor of the City of Findlay, Ohio, do hereby proclaim June 5, 2025, as:

HAROLD “PUCK’ ROWE DAY

in Findlay, Ohio, and invite all citizens to join with me in recognizing and celebrating his remarkable leadership, compassion, and enduring service. May his example continue to inspire us all to build a stronger, more caring community.

(From the Hancock County Commissioners)

Our Hancock County Commissioners are providing a community outreach program this summer called “Town & Country Tuesdays” where each commissioner will be spending time each Tuesday at various local eateries and village parks throughout Findlay & greater Hancock County.

Think of it as an informal town hall one-on-one casual meeting with individual commissioners.

The schedule for each month will be posted on the commissioners’ website and can also be seen below.

• • June 3rd

     

    • • Commissioner Hunker @ The Dark Horse – 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

     

    • • Commissioner Bechtol @ City BBQ – 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

     

• • June 10th 

     

    • • Commissioner Bateson @ Panthers Pizza (McComb) – 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

     

    • • Commissioner Bechtol @ Baker’s Café – 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

     

    • • Commissioner Hunker @ Chick-Fil-A – 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

     

• • June 17th 

     

    • • Commissioner Bateson @ Smoking BBQ – 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

     

    • • Commissioner Bechtol @ Wilson’s Sandwich Shop – 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

     

    • • Commissioner Hunker @ Coffee Amici – 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

     

• June 24th

   

  • Commissioner Bechtol @ Dietsch Brothers (W. Main Cross St.) – 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

(From the Findlay Fire Department)

If you need new detectors we have them and they’re FREE!!!

Just call 419-424-7814 and we will come and install them too!!!

Fire Inspector Eric Wilkins on the importance of working smoke detectors.

Did you know that smoke detectors expire? Yes they do!

Smoke detectors are designed to last 10 years.

Be sure to check the back side of your homes detectors as they are required to have a date of manufacture printed there.

If your detectors are more than ten years old, replace them!

If you need smoke detectors, contact the Findlay Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Bureau at 419-424-7814 and we will replace them for you at no charge!

Thanks to our partners at the American Red Cross who supply us with free detectors!

(From Blanchard Valley Center)

The 45th annual Torch Run for Special Olympics is set for Wednesday, June 11, beginning at 11 a.m. at the University of Findlay.

Officers from the Findlay Police Department and the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office will carry the torch through the streets of Findlay, helping to launch the run-up to the Ohio Special Olympics Summer Games in Columbus.

After leaving the university, the runners will make their way to the Hancock County Courthouse, where they will meet up with Special Olympics athletes to make the stretch run to St. Marks United Methodist Church.

The annual torch run, with our law enforcement officers escorting the Special Olympians at the end of the run, has been a Hancock County tradition since 1981.

“At Blanchard Valley Center, there are some events we look forward to every year, and the Torch Run is near the top of the list,” said Kelli Grisham, superintendent at Blanchard Valley Center. “This is a wonderful example of meaningful connections within our community. I’m grateful to the law enforcement officers who generously volunteer their time, and I know the athletes we support through Special Olympics truly value the encouragement and partnership.”

The Ohio Special Olympics Summer Games will be held June 13-15 at Ohio State University. Hancock County will send 33 athletes to Columbus, competing in bocce, powerlifting, and track and field.

(From Blanchard Valley Health System)

Blanchard Valley Health System recently held an appreciation luncheon for our dedicated volunteers and auxiliary members.

This event recognizes the generosity of those who give their time and talents to support patients, staff, and BVHS’s mission.

Additionally, the BVHS Auxiliary Scholarship recipients were acknowledged and thanked for their contributions.

Way to go #TeamBVHS

If you’re interested in volunteering with BVHS, go https://bvhs.info/3h5hTid to learn more.

(From the Ohio State Highway Patrol)

The Ohio State Highway Patrol is asking all motorists to do their part in promoting roadway safety during what has been characterized by safety officials as the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer. This time period, which runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, sees an increase in traffic on the roads and an increased number of both serious-injury and fatal crashes.

“There is a clear connection between the summer’s rise in temperatures and the increase in traffic crashes,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Whether you are headed to a cookout, a ballgame, or a weekend getaway, please buckle up, avoid distractions, and never drive impaired.”

The increased risk of serious-injury and fatal crashes during this time of year is attributed to several factors, including increased driving time, increased distractions and driver inexperience.

-Increased driving time – School is out and teens have more unstructured time, which leads to more driving, often times with friends in the vehicle.

-Increased distractions – Distracted driving, including phone use and multiple passengers being in the vehicle, increase the risk of a serious crash.

-Driver inexperience – Statistics show that teen drivers are more likely to be involved in a crash due to their inexperience.

This time period also encompasses the primary motorcycle riding months. According to Patrol statistics, more than half of all motorcycle-involved crashes last year occurred during the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer.

During this time period last year, a total of 65,035 crashes occurred on Ohio’s roadways, including 364 fatal crashes. Those fatal crashes resulted in 393 deaths, which equates to more than one-third of the fatal crashes recorded in 2024.

“As traffic increases over the summer months, so does our shared responsibility for keeping our roads safe,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “By making safe, intentional choices behind the wheel, we can prevent crashes and save lives.”

Similar to a year ago, troopers will be highly visible on roadways across the state promoting traffic safety for all those who live in and travel through Ohio. In 2024, troopers made 4,275 OVI arrests, issued 20,302 seat belt citations and cited 7,877 motorists for driving with a suspended license during the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer.

Additional information regarding Ohio crash statistics is available on the Ohio Statistics and Analytics for Traffic Safety (OSTATS) dashboard. That dashboard can be located here.

The public is encouraged to safely call #677 to report reckless or impaired drivers and drug activity.