Our volunteer center, Volunteers United, is hosting a card-making open house from 3-6 p.m. Feb. 5 and we would LOVE for you to be part of it!
We will be spreading some extra love this Valentine’s season by making cards of cheer and valentines to deliver to our senior population and veterans. It’s a simple but impactful way to brighten someone’s day!
Can’t make it in person? No problem! You can still help by making cards at home or letting the kiddos color a page for a good cause. Just let us know, and we’ll arrange a pickup or drop-off time!
Got extra cards or card-making supplies you’d like to donate? We’d be grateful for your contribution! Contact Mindy at 567-249-1844 or email us at volunteer@uwhancock.org.
Let’s come together to share some love and make this Valentine’s season extra special for those who need it most.
See you there!
United Way’s office is located at 318 W. Main Cross, above KanDu Studio.
U.S. Navy sailors serve and protect from around the globe, and every sailor got their start somewhere.
Chief Operations Specialist Bonnie Lucero, from McCutchenville, Ohio, tracks surface radar contacts as the surface warfare coordinator in the combat information center of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108) in the Pacific Ocean, Jan. 22, 2025.
Wayne E. Meyer is underway in 3rd Fleet conducting routine operations.
(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Charles J. Scudella III)
We will kick off the series on Feb. 6 featuring “The Failed History of Drug Enforcement” presented by retired Judge Reginald Routson.
In 1971, President Richard Nixon declared a “War on Drugs.” For many years, this effort largely focused on criminalizing drug use, leading to mass incarceration and extensive enforcement resources devoted to interdiction, while dedicating few resources to treatment. Today, over 37 million Americans report having a substance use disorder involving either legal or illegal substances.
Join us for an engaging discussion that challenges outdated strategies and assumptions, and explores solutions that could make a real difference.
What are Brown Bag Lectures?
Scheduled for noon on the first Thursday of each month, Brown Bag Lectures feature a variety of topics relevant to Hancock County and Ohio. Lectures are free for Museum members and the cost of regular admission for nonmembers. Reservations are encouraged, but not required. Please call the Museum at (419) 423-4433 for more information.
See the full 2025 Brown Bag Lecture schedule here!
The Hancock Historical Museum is located at 422 West Sandusky Street in Findlay.
As we start a new year, I want to reflect on the achievements of The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation in 2024 and look ahead to the exciting things we have planned for 2025. None of our work would be possible without the support of our generous donors, incredible nonprofit partners, local officials and all others who invest in the future of our community through The Community Foundation.
Celebrating Successes
The Community Foundation’s dedication to enriching the lives of Hancock County residents was evident in the numerous successes of 2024. The Fun for All series, with 60+ free community events, brought joy and entertainment to over 13,000 people, fostering a sense of togetherness and shared experiences.
The Funding Forever campaign showed the power of collective philanthropy, with local donors and advisors partnering with us to ensure Hancock County has charitable funds today, tomorrow and forever. The $1.5 million addition to future grantmaking funds will enable the Foundation to expand its support for community programs and initiatives for generations.
In an effort to make the Foundation more accessible for all users, we made significant updates to its website, including adding accessiBe software to all webpages, an updated giving hub and an improved donor portal. These improvements make it easier than ever for you to find more information about our work and support our mission.
The Center for Effective Philanthropy’s Donor Perception Report validated our commitment to excellence. In several categories, the report ranked the Foundation among the best in the country. This recognition reflects the Foundation’s dedication to its donors and Hancock County as a whole. I am incredibly proud of the work our staff does daily and I’m grateful for the support of our board and committee members who make it possible.
Looking Ahead
Building on the successes of 2024, the Foundation has ambitious plans for 2025, with a focus on community growth, quality of life and educational opportunities.
The Foundation will continue its legacy of supporting education by awarding its 30th round of scholarships to deserving students. The scholarship program has already profoundly impacted the lives of more than 2,500 students, awarding them more than $6 million to pursue their education.
A new initiative focused on critical areas for Hancock County’s future will be launched this summer. This initiative will bring together community partners to address challenges and opportunities, ensuring a thriving community for all.
We are excited to see what’s next for our two current Heart & Soul communities. Arlington and Arcadia will continue their community-driven work, empowering residents to shape the future of their towns.
Recognizing the importance of understanding local needs, the Foundation is investing in research projects to gather community feedback and inform our grantmaking strategies. This commitment to data-driven decision-making ensures the Foundation’s resources are directed toward the most pressing issues facing Hancock County.
A Shared Vision
The Community Foundation’s mission and unwavering commitment to serving Hancock County inspire me and the entire staff every day. As we look ahead to 2025, join us by supporting the Foundation’s efforts to create a brighter future for Hancock County. Together, we can build a community where everyone can thrive.
Hancock County Prosecutor Sean M. Abbott announced that the Hancock County Prosecutor’s Office has concluded its review of the officer-involved critical incident that occurred on October 28, 2024 at Bernard Park, 1105 Bernard Ave. in Findlay that resulted in the death of 17-year-old Kalvin Darapheth.
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation conducted the case investigation and presented all the evidence to the Hancock County Prosecutor’s Office for its review. “After careful review of all the facts and evidence, I have concluded that the application of the use of deadly force by City of Findlay Police Officer Kyle Bormuth was objectively reasonable under the circumstances as defined by Tennessee v. Garner, 471 U.S. 1 (1985) and Graham v. Connor, 490 U.S. 386 (1989). Therefore, our office will not be presenting this matter to the Hancock County grand jury and this investigation will be considered closed,” Abbott said.
On October 28, 2024, Findlay Police Department officers were dispatched to Bernard Park, 1105 Bernard Ave, Findlay, Ohio to investigate a complaint of juveniles consuming alcoholic beverages while in the park. Upon arrival, officers encountered three (3) juveniles, including Darapheth, in possession of alcoholic beverages. While engaged in conversation, prior to being arrested, Darapheth fled the area on foot resulting in Officer Bormuth giving chase.
Darapheth is then seen on police body worn camera footage brandishing a handgun and firing two rounds at Officer Bormuth. Officer Bormuth returned fire, firing eight rounds at Darapheth and striking him four times. During a crime scene search, Darapheth was found to have fired three additional rounds after Officer Bormuth returned fire. The body worn camera did not capture visual footage of Darapheth firing the last 3 rounds, but the shots are heard on camera footage and additional casings were discovered near Darapheth. The firearm utilized by Darapheth in the incident was reported stolen on September 19, 2024.
Darapheth was treated at the scene and transported to Blanchard Valley Hospital in Findlay. He was later flown to ProMedica Toledo Hospital where Darapheth succumbed to his injuries the following day, on October 29, 2024
The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Lima Post is investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on January 27, 2025 at approximately 8:25 P.M, on State Route 15 near County Road 21 in Monroe Township, Putnam County.
A 2021 Chevrolet Equinox, operated by Erica Shafer, age 32, of Continental, Ohio was traveling south on County Road 21. A 2023 Chevrolet Suburban, operated by Kristen Stechschulte, age 43, of Cloverdale, Ohio, was traveling east on State Route 15. Shafer failed to stop at the posted stop sign at the intersection of County Road 21 and State Route 15, and struck the Chevrolet Suburban. Both vehicles traveled off the southeast side of the roadway, and struck a utility pole, traffic sign, and junction box. Shafer was not wearing a safety belt and was pronounced deceased on scene by medical personnel. Stechschulte and two juvenile passengers were wearing safety belts, and were transported by ambulance to ProMedica Defiance Regional Hospital and Mercy Health Defiance Hospital with serious injury.
Lima Post Troopers were assisted at the crash scene by the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, Putnam County EMS, Kalida EMS, Continental Fire Department, Continental Police Department, Putnam County Coroner’s Office, Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Paulding-Putnam Electric Co-op, and 419 Towing. The intersection was closed for approximately two hours.
Alcohol impairment is a factor in the crash. The Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds motorists not to drive impaired and to always wear a safety belt. The crash remains under investigation.
Area residents of all ages are invited take part in games galore on February 2 during the next “Funday Sunday” program at University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum. This month’s program, which is free and open to the public, features a “Game on!” theme.
Guests will enjoy art activities, games, hands-on educational stations, interactive STEAM activities, planetarium shows, and more.
“We’re excited to bring Muddy and Muddonna from the Toledo Mud Hens and our UF mascot Derrick the Oiler together for an action-packed event. It will be a day of fun, energy, and unforgettable moments,” said Amanda Davidson-Johnston, education manager at the Mazza Museum.
The family-friendly learning extravaganza encourages artistic expression, enhances literacy, and develops critical thinking skills, she noted.
Registration is required and can be completed on the Mazza Museum’s website or https://oilers.findlay.edu/pages/events/mazza-funday-sunday
Funday Sundays take place monthly at the Mazza Museum, from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., through April. The event is sponsored by Hancock Federal Credit Union.
The remaining themes for Funday Sundays in 2025 are:
March 2: Accelerate!
April 6: Farmyard Fables
For more information on upcoming events, visit the Mazza Museum’s Events page online at www.mazzamuseum.org/events/. For specific questions regarding Funday Sunday, contact Amanda Davidson-Johnston, Mazza Museum education manager, at 419-434-4777 or amanda.davidson-johnston@findlay.edu.
Millstream Career Center announced that it has received a $100,000 donation from Marathon Petroleum Corporation to The Stream STEM Center. This contribution will empower the advancement of cutting-edge technologies and innovation in the fields of engineering, robotics, and manufacturing, enabling students to explore career paths in high-demand industries. The Stream STEM Center is a hub of creativity and learning, dedicated to equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. With this donation, the center will enhance its facilities, acquire state-of-the-art equipment, and expand its educational programs.
“At Marathon Petroleum, we are committed to investing in the future of our communities,” said Ashley Goecke, Community Relations Representative at Marathon Petroleum. “By supporting The Stream STEM Center, we are helping to prepare the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers who will drive progress in engineering, robotics, and manufacturing.”
The funds will be used to bolster hands-on learning opportunities for students, including access to advanced robotics systems, engineering tools, and manufacturing technologies. These resources will provide students with real-world experience and foster a passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers.
“We are incredibly grateful for Marathon Petroleum’s generosity and belief in our mission,” said Pam Hamlin, Director of Millstream Career Center. “This donation will make a significant impact on our ability to inspire and prepare students for success in technology-driven industries.”
Marathon Petroleum’s donation underscores the company’s commitment to thriving communities and workforce development. By investing in The Stream STEM Center, Marathon Petroleum is helping to bridge the gap between education and industry, creating a brighter future for students and the local workforce. For more information about The Stream STEM Center at Millstream Career Center, please contact Pam Hamlin at phamlin@fcs.org.
Marathon Petroleum Corporation (MPC) is a leading integrated downstream energy company, specializing in refining, marketing, and transportation of petroleum products. With a strong commitment to sustainability and community engagement, MPC strives to make a positive impact in the areas where it operates.
Millstream Career Center is dedicated to providing students with exceptional career and technical education opportunities. Through innovative programs and partnerships with industry leaders, the center prepares students for success in today’s competitive job market.
They’ll begin by moving items away from the walls in all areas and then focus on reorganizing collections in Youth Services.
The paint crew will also kick off their work. Starting today (Monday), Youth Services, Media Services, and the current Genealogy area will be off-limits to patrons, but don’t worry—staff will still have access to these collections and can retrieve items for you upon request.
A temporary service point for Media/Youth Services will be set up near Circulation.
Thank you for your patience as we work to bring you a brighter, better library!
