OPEN HOUSE SLATED TO CELEBRATE NEW LOCATION

Northwest Ohio Orthopedics and Sports Medicine and ProMedica Health System reinvestednearly $2.5 million in the relocation of ProMedica UrgentCare, OccuHealth and NWO Family Medicine services in Findlay. The new site, located in the former Saturn Dealership building at 15054 E. U.S. Route 224, features approximately 10,000 square feet of renovated space.

The acquisition of the building afforded the opportunity to better serve patients by offering increased visibility, more treatment rooms, electronic medical records, on-call orthopedic coverage, onsite lab draw, and digital X-ray for ease in sharing images. New services are also available, such as extended hours and a call ahead option designed to decrease wait times and accommodate busy schedules.

ProMedica UrgentCare and OccuHealth opened in 2008 as part of a partnership between ProMedica Health System and Northwest Ohio Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. NWO Family Medicine was formed in 2010 following the opening of a family medicine practice by Randy Trimpey, MD.

A community open house will be held Thurs., Jan. 20, from 4 - 6 p.m. Tours and door prizes will be provided as well as complimentary blood pressure screenings, refreshments, giveaways and more.

To learn more, please call 419-427-3030 or visit www.promedica.org or www.nwomedicine.com.

The Arts Partnership is kicking off 2011 with a Dinner and a Show! 

On Saturday, January 22nd , we have teamed up with the Bistro on Main to offer a 3 course meal followed by a hilarious comedy show about life in corporate America.  The dinner is at 5:30pm at the Bistro (see attached menu), with doors opening at 7:00 for the 7:30pm show at Central Auditorium.  This dinner/show offer is limited to 40 people so get your tickets early.  Tickets for dinner and a show ($35 each) or just the show ($20 adult) can be purchased at The Arts Partnership, 618 South Main St. or by calling 419-422-4624.  More information can be found on our website www.artspartnership.com .
 

Support our talented youth by attending the Findlay First Edition and Pantasia Fundraiser Concert on Friday, February 4th at Central Auditorium tickets on sale now at The Arts Partnership!

Findlay law firm merges and expands areas of expertise

TOLEDO, OHIO -- Robison, Curphey & O'Connell is pleased to announce that effective January

1, 2011 Robert F. Sprague, Douglas W. Huffman and Matthew L. Klein (formerly with the law firm of

Sprague, Huffman & Klein) have joined the firm as partners and the firm's Findlay office has been relocated to:
 

220 West Sandusky Street

Findlay, OH 45840

419-423-4321

419-423-8484 Fax
 

"Successful mergers are built upon cultural fit, the integrity of the lawyers, and the energy behind their combined vision; this merger clearly has all three," said James Brazeau, managing partner of the firm. Bob Sprague, said "our clients will still be dealing day to day with the same attorneys and staff, but will benefit from our relationship with Robison, Curphey & O'Connell immediately because we are able to provide additional areas of expertise. It is a unity of focus and vision to serve our clients in the way they have come to expect and deserve. In a fundamental sense, we are formalizing a relationship with colleagues we have known and had confidence in for a long time."
 

Robison, Curphey & O'Connell is a regional law firm which has been providing legal counsel to individuals and businesses for more than a century. With an experienced staff of professionals, the firm is committed to providing service to its clients that exceeds expectations. The firm's practice and industry groups include Agribusiness, Banking & Finance, Business & Corporate, Employment & Benefits, Estate Planning, Probate & Tax, Healthcare, Insurance, Litigation, Professional Liability, Real Estate & Construction, Transportation, and Workers' Compensation.
 

Findlay Inn Wedding Expo

Be a part of a grand event on February 20, 2011from 1-4:30p.m. at the Findlay Inn & Conference Center. 200 E. Main Cross St. Showcase your product or service at this fabulous bridal show - booth reservations available through Feb. 11. Call Kelsey at 419.422.5682 for details.  

ProMedica & OccuHealth UrgentCare Open House

See their new location and celebrate a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, Jan. 18, 4-6p.m. at 15054 E. US 224, Findlay. The "Wine and Cheese Social" is open to the public - Come and enjoy!
 

Younger appointed to HPD board - Jerry Hawkins retiring after 17 years on park district board

Mr. Scott Younger has been appointed as the new Park Commissioner to the Hancock Park District Board by Probate Court Judge Allan H. Davis beginning January 1, 2011. Mr. Younger replaces Jerry Hawkins who has retired from the Board effective December 31, 2010 after 17 years of service.

In his comments on the appointment, Mr. Younger stated, "I have been privileged to work with the Parks for almost 20 years.  Initially through my connection with The Kiwanis Club of Findlay's Parks committee and later with my interest in conservation and as Co chair of the Levy Renewal effort.  I hope I can help keep the Parks a jewel in Hancock County."

Younger, who is a retired realtor and property manager, identified woodworking as his hobby and enjoys the outdoors, his dogs, and golf. Mr. Younger attended Findlay High School, graduated from Bowling Green State University, and was a former Captain in the United States Army. He resides in Findlay and is the son of Charles and Mariann Younger.

Several candidates were considered for the Board position as a result of Hawkins' retirement. Mr. Hawkins described his experience on the Board as "both rewarding and educational" and went on to add that it "enabled me to learn more about the communities in our area and to fully appreciate the commitment of all involved who make our park system the outstanding success it is today."

The Arts Partnership and Youtheatre present - So you want to be a Star?

Saturday, January 15, 2011 at First Presbyterian Church from  9:00a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

Registration at 8:30 a.m.; Presentation to Family at 12:15 p.m.

Open to first 20 students in each grade range

DRESS COMFORTABLY!  Be ready to move around!

Complete Registration Form and return with check made payable to The Arts Partnership, 618 South Main St., Findlay by January 10, 2011.  Workshop Fees:  Regular: $20; Current Arts Partnership Member: $18; Late Fee: $5 (If submitted after January 10).

MUST PRE-REGISTER PRIOR TO WORKSHOP.

Questions?  Need More Info?  Or need the form?

Contact Peggy Grandbois at 419.422.3412 ext. 24 or education@artspartnership.com

Owens Community College Workforce and Community Services:

Tom Hofbauer's Amazing Team Building Challenge

Team Building Expert and Improvisationalist Tom Hofbauer helps participants in this unforgettable session to learn how to make a team work - by finding out what its members strengths are. The Amazing Team Building Challenge helps everyone understand how to find their fit for contributing to a high functioning team.

Topics include:

Improve group and individual skills assessments.

Achieve more effective interpersonal communications.

Strengthen active listening skills.

Encourage more active engagement in group activities.

Develop or improve group dynamics such as cooperation and teamwork.

Encourage empathy.

Enhance an atmosphere of agreement.

Strengthen dynamics of trust and support.

Due to the highly interactive nature of The Amazing Teambuilding Challenge and the fact that the Challenge is a largely self-directed activity, participants must rely on organizational and assessment skills in order to complete the series of activities. Communicating effectively (including active listening) and working as a team will be required to complete the challenge successfully.  The Challenge was developed to focus on the utilization of the variety of individual strengths within each team as the participants navigate the game. With appropriate assessments and strong (and changing) leadership, those individual strengths can coalesce to make a strong and successful team.  Individuals who might otherwise be able to drift into the background in another teambuilding exercise may find themselves invaluable to their team as this game progresses. The individual members of each team must work together in a spirit of trust and support to arrive at agreement in order to move from one activity to another.

The Challenge was also developed to mirror a typical employment situation in which the environment is constantly changing and information needs to be researched and evaluated for the best possible solution.  Individuals who might not otherwise interact with certain other individuals must do so in these activities in order to be successful. A variety of personality types are thrown together in this event and must respect and encourage one another to effectively complete the Challenge.

Habitat for Humanity celebrates continued support for affordable housing efforts in 2011 with $10.4 million in funding from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans announces $10.4 commitment to build Habitat for Humanity homes in 33 states across the country Habitat for Humanity of Findlay/Hancock County, OH (Dec. 14, 2010) - Findlay/Hancock County Habitat for Humanity will receive $36,850 in funding to rehab a house in Arlington OH as part of Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity in 2011. 

Nationally, Thrivent Financial announced a  commitment of $10.4 million to Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity and its homebuilding program, continuing its support of Habitat's mission for a sixth year. This funding will make the construction of 164 additional homes in 33 states possible.

In 2011, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, through its unique partnership with Habitat for Humanity International called Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity, will surpass more than $150 million in its total commitment over six years to create affordable housing. Findlay/Hancock County Habitat for Humanity has built 3 homes as part of that effort.

"The Thrivent Builds partnership has helped Findlay/Hancock Habitat increase the number of families served in our community," said Sandy Franks, Board President. "We are so grateful for Thrivent Financial's support of our efforts to provide decent, affordable homes in partnership with families in need.  Including 2011's grant, Thrivent Financial will have provided over $200,000 to help fund 4 homes in our community."

"This will be our first rehab project, and our first build in Arlington," stated Franks.  "We are in the process of seeking partner families who have a desire to live in the Arlington community."  Habitat for Humanity partner families must meet 3 criteria to apply: 1) Ability to pay for a mortgage 2) Have a need for adequate shelter 3) Willing to partner through a minimum of 400 hours of sweat equity.  Interested families should contact Habitat at 419-429-1400 or download an application at www.habitatfindlay.org.

For more information, visit www.habitatfindlay.org or contact the office at 419-429-1400.

For more information, or to donate or volunteer, visit Habitat.org.

United Way Campaign Raises Most in History

The United Way of Hancock County announced today that it raised $2,566,500.  Keith DuVernay was able to announce the accomplishment today at Findlay Rotary's noon meeting.

"This is the most our community has ever raised during our fundraising campaign. Our agency thanks Scott and his campaign cabinet for their hard work this year," said DuVernay.

Campaign Chair, Scott Malaney said, "this is a tribute to the generosity of our community. Even with this great success, there is still time to give. Our partner agency needs are closer to 3 million dollars, so the need is great. However, we are very pleased with this year's result."

Malaney and his team set out to increase the donor base and also succeeded. The overall donor base has increased by 17% according to Michael Momany, United Way's resource development director.

Individuals in the community who want to support this year's campaign can still do so by pledging online at http://LiveUnitedHancockCounty.org or by calling the United Way office at 419-423-1432. Pledges can be billed monthly and credit cards are accepted.

The funds will be distributed to programs and services through grants that are reviewed by local citizens who serve on the volunteer Community Solutions Committee during the 2011 grant cycle. Partner agencies that are eligible to apply for funding include: American Red Cross-Hancock County Chapter, Boy Scouts of America-Black Swamp Area Council, CASA/GAL of Hancock County, Camp Fire USA Northwest Ohio Council, Challenged Champions Equestrian Center, Community Action Commission, Century Health, Cancer Patient Services, Children's Mentoring Connection, Dental Center of Northwest Ohio, Family Resource Centers, Findlay Family YMCA, Girl Scouts of Western Ohio, Hancock Saves, Hope House for the Homeless, Kidney Foundation of Northwest Ohio, Open Arms Domestic Violence & Rape Crisis Services, Salvation Army, and West Ohio Food Bank. For more information or to serve on the Community Solutions Committee, contact the United Way office at 419-423-1432 or visit online at http://LiveUnitedHancockCounty.org 

HANCOCK PARK DISTRICT OFFERS LEARN TO CROSS COUNTRY SKI WORKSHOPS IN JANUARY

Want to try cross country skiing, but not sure where to start? The Hancock Park District is offering a Learn to Cross Country Ski Workshop each Saturday in January from 9am until 10:30am. Learn the basics of cross country skiing including gliding, turning, moving forward, climbing hills, falling down, and getting up "gracefully". Time is allowed for you to practice your new skills during the workshop. No experience is necessary. The workshop costs $10 per person, which includes ski equipment rental and complimentary warm beverages. Equipment is available for youth and adults. Recommended age to participate is 8 years old, with a participating adult. Advance registration and payment are required by 4:30pm the Friday before each workshop. Register at the HPD office with exact change or check. Due to the New Year's holiday this year, the HPD office will be closed on Friday, December 31. Register for the January 1st Ski Workshop by Thursday, December 30. For more details, call the HPD office during the week at 419-425-PARK (7275).

The workshops will take place at the Hancock Park District's Raccoon Run Winter Sports Center, located at shelter #3 in Riverbend Recreation Area at 16618 TR 208, off SR 568 to TR 241 east of Findlay. Arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for proper outfitting. The workshop starts promptly at 9am. Please dress for the weather, wear layered clothing, hats, and gloves.

Good snow conditions are required for the Learn to Ski Workshops to take place with at least 4-6 inches of good snow base. Registered participants will be contacted the week of the workshop to notify them if conditions are good for the workshop.

For more information about other upcoming programs, view the HPD Seasonal Guide at www.HancockParks.com or call the HPD office at 419-425-PARK (7275) and "Discover Your Hancock Parks".

Carbon Monoxide Detectors Purchased for Low-income Families

Fire Chief Tom Lonyo, Eric Habegger, fire prevention officer and Keith DuVernay, United Way president & CEO presented Tim and Connie Higgins, Majors at the Salvation Army, with 80 carbon monoxide detectors for low-income families on Monday. The detectors, which will be distributed by the Salvation Army, were purchased from funds raised by t-shirt sales. The "Fire Prevention" t-shirts were designed by 3rd grader Cole Sprague as a result of a contest for school children held in Hancock County in September.

The shirts are $10 and are still available at Main Street News (new location) 520 S. Main St., Coffee Amici, 328 S. Main St., and DorAnne's Gifts & Gourmet, 327 S. Main St.

The project is being coordinated by the Findlay Fire Department and United Way of Hancock County.

Corporate sponsors of the project included: The Courier, Jim's Trophies, Creative Hair Design, Kohl's, Wal Mart Store #3840, Buffalo Wild Wings, Hanco EMS, Stumps Fire Protection & Safety Equipment, Northwest Ohio Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Huffman Construction, and Hackenberg Beutler Rasmussen & Geigher, LLC.

For more information about the project, contact Tamera Rooney, United Way of Hancock County communications director, at 419-423-1432.

Community Foundation Announces Schneider Circle

The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation has announced a new initiative, The Schneider Circle, to strengthen local nonprofit agencies. Through an application process, twelve local nonprofit agencies will be selected to participate in the inaugural Schneider Circle for two years. The agencies selected will have a proven track record of excellence and the potential to continue to significantly improve the quality of life in Hancock County. The organizations will represent a variety of sectors including, but not limited to, social service, the arts, health, youth service, and recreation. The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation is seeking a diverse pool of applicants.

The Schneider Circle cohort will be able to access local trainings provided by regional experts in the following areas: monthly nonprofit leadership forum, quarterly fundraising coaching, effective meeting management training, and leadership transition planning.

This important initiative is being supported by the Madeleine Thomas Schneider Fund. Madeleine Thomas Schneider, daughter of Findlay, lived her life with a gracious spirit. Throughout her life, Schneider was a model of integrity, service and generosity. Upon her death, she left the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation an endowed gift totaling $25 million. Through her final gifts, Schneider continues to touch the lives of many of our neighbors as her fund is used to support local nonprofit agencies to become self-sufficient entities able to meet critical community needs.

The Foundation will accept applications from nonprofit agencies providing services to Hancock County residents through January 31, 2011. Applications will be available on the Foundation website (www.community-foundation.com) on January 3, 2011. The applicants will be evaluated on the following criteria: nonprofit agencies currently providing services to Hancock County residents; willingness to collaborate with other agencies to address community issues; current strength of the organization (programming, governance, staff leadership, financing, administrative, staffing, and marketing); and willingness to embrace organizational change and growth.

Public announcement of the Schneider Circle agencies will be made on February 28, 2011.

"As one of its overarching goals, the Foundation seeks to support nonprofits to become self-sufficient entities always ready to meet community needs," said Katherine Kreuchauf, president.

"The generosity of Madeleine Schneider will continue to touch local lives as Schneider Circle agencies are strengthened through improved communication and collaboration, more effective executive leaders and governing bodies, and increased organizational effectiveness. These agencies will be better positioned to consistently meet both community and client needs," said Kreuchauf.

Questions regarding the Schneider Circle should be directed to Julie Brown, Program Officer, 419-425-1100 or jbrown@community-foundation.com.

About the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation

NEW ADULT NATURE EDUCATION SERIES Begins January 2011

A new program series starts in January for adults who would like to expand their current knowledge of our local natural world.  Sessions may include hands-on in the field learning or indoor instructional, informative programs.  All sessions qualify for Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalists credit hours (check for continued education vs. volunteer hours with Sarah Betts, Natural Resource Coordinator, sbetts@hancockparks.com).  Please register for these free programs at the Hancock Park District Office, 419-425-7275.   

Tuesdays, January 11 & 25 - Nature Journaling - Not Just For Writers

7pm. First evening will be held at Oakwoods Nature Preserve, Discovery Center and the second evening at the Lodge at Riverbend Recreation Area.

Boost your skills of observation, insight, and intellect in this two-part series.  Nature journaling is a great way to record observations, seasonal changes, process your own environmental theory, and share verifiable scientific information with others.  Sessions will cover basic journaling techniques including various written formats, charts, drawing/sketching, picture taking, mapping, etc.  Register by Monday, Jan. 10. 

Saturday, January 29 - Birds and Birding in Winter

10am. Program held at Oakwoods Nature Preserve, Discovery Center.

It's late winter and hard to believe much could survive long outside.  However, many species of birds "tough it out" all winter around here.  Join us as we explore how they survive in this harsh climate.  Learn critical techniques to find them right now and how to identify our feathered friends in all seasons.  Register by Friday, Feb. 11.

The Oakwoods Nature Preserve, "Doc" Phillips Discovery Center is located at 1400 Oakwoods Lane, off West Sandusky Street off CR 144 west of Findlay.  For more information about other upcoming programs, view the HPD Seasonal Guide at www.HancockParks.com under the "What's New" section or call the HPD office at 419-425-PARK and "Discover Your Hancock Parks".

XTREME AGING XPERT™: STRIVES TO DIMINISH AGEISM- A Macklin Institute Training

On December 9, 2010, Dr. Vicki Rosebrook and Hollie Haley of the Marilyn and Gordon Macklin Intergenerational Institute (Macklin Institute) traveled to Nashville, Tennessee to train 8 new Xtreme Aging Xperts. ™ The training was held at HealthSpring, which  focuses on care for Medicare Advantage recipients.  HealthSpring serves the states of Alabama, Tennessee, Texas, Illinois, and Mississippi. The newly trained Xperts are now certified to facilitate the three hour Xtreme Aging Training™ for all of their current staff and new employees around the country.

The mission of Xtreme Aging Training™ is to bring dignity, respect and value to the lives of the aging cohort by providing aging awareness training to those individuals who interact with the aging population.  During a 14 hour training session, participants are morphed into Xtreme Aging Xperts™.  The goal of the Xpert™ is to empower and enlighten the next generations of care and service providers, thus preparing them to work with the growing aging population.

Dr. Vicki Rosebrook, Executive Director of the Macklin Intergenerational Institute believes that anyone who interacts with the aging population personally or professionally needs Xtreme Aging Training™.

United Way Seeking Nominations for 2010 Distinguished Volunteer

The United Way of Hancock County is seeking nominations for the 2010 Distinguished Volunteer Award.  This award has been presented for the past 29 years to an individual who exemplifies the spirit of philanthropy. Past recipients have demonstrated dedication and willingness to serve the community through their overall involvement as a volunteer and a leader in community causes.  Past Distinguished Volunteers include Larry Busdeker (2009) Randy Lohoff (2008) Dick Schaefer (posthumouslay, 2007), Beth Heck (posthumously, 2006),  and Tom Donnell (2005). A photo of this year's recipient will be displayed in the lobby of the United Way office as a person who exemplifies the highest purpose and commitment to volunteering in the non-profit sector in Hancock County. The award will be presented at the United Way Annual meeting in April of 2011.   Nomination forms are available at the United Way office or by visiting http://LiveUnitedHancockCounty.org .  Individuals who have been nominated in the past, but have not been selected, are eligible for re-nomination.  Posthumous nominations will also be accepted. Nominations must be submitted to the United Way of Hancock County in writing by February 4, 2011. For more information, contact Bev Phillips, community services director, at 419-423-1432 or bphillips@uwhancock.org.

JAMES APPOINTED TO ADVANCED RESPONSE TEAM

Todd James, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Hancock County Chapter, has been appointed as a member of the Advance Public Affairs Team of the American Red Cross Disaster Public Affairs Unit.  The Advanced Public Affairs Team is a cadre of experienced public affairs and communication professionals responsible for the official disaster response communications to disaster clients, news media, donors and the public during large-scale Disaster Relief Operations. 

James worked in the radio industry for twenty years as an on-air talent and manager prior to his role in non-profit management and continues to serve as the lead public affairs contact for the Hancock County Red Cross. "I'm excited about this opportunity to use my skills and experience as part of the Red Cross response to major disasters" says James.  "Communicating the Red Cross message to those affected by disaster is vital, and I'm proud to part of the team and to be able to help in any way I can."

James will be activated for deployment after completing training at the Advanced Public Affairs Team Training Conference, to be held in Tampa during the first week in March.

Commercial Savings Bank announces the keynote speaker for this year's economic outlook luncheon

Commercial Savings Bank is proud to announce that one of the nation's top forecasters by the Wall Street Journal and USA Today, Brian S. Wesbury, chief economist, First Trust Advisors L.P. will serve as the keynote speaker for this year's economic outlook luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursday, February 10 at the Masters Building of the Wyandot County Fairgrounds.
The nationally known economist will tell those in attendance that from the depths of what has been called the "worst economic crisis since the Great Depression," the US economy has been remarkably resilient. Real GDP has expanded for five consecutive quarters, consumer spending is at an all-time high and private sector jobs have expanded for 10 straight months. This recovery was predicted by our speaker, but the mood of the country remains cautious or even fearful. With the Congress changing hands and the Fed printing even more money, the future is dynamic. In a return visit, Brian Wesbury will defend his predictions from last year and cast a vision for the future.
More than one hundred fifty business and civic leaders will be in attendance as Wesbury addresses this topic and more in what should prove to be an entertaining and informative event.
Wesbury was ranked the nation's #1 U.S. economic forecaster in 2001 by the Wall Street Journal and one of the nation's Top 10 Forecasters in 2004 by USA Today.
Wesbury writes a monthly column for The American Spectator magazine, and serves as the magazine's Economics Editor. He is a contributor to the editorial page at the Wall Street Journal, and is a regular co-host on CNBC's Squawk Box. Wesbury is a member of the Academic Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, and he is also an adjunct professor of economics at Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL.
For more information about the economic outlook luncheon, please contact Suzzette Boyd at Commercial Savings Bank at 419.423.3057. Note: While this event is closed to the general public, media attendance is welcome. Wesbury will be available for interviews from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The luncheon will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. To schedule an interview, please contact Suzzette Boyd at suzzette.boyd@csbanking.com.

Friends Welcomes New Hire of Wooster

Newly hired and experienced sales representative, Kathy Watson of Wooster, Ohio, is welcomed to Friends Business Source.  Watson boasts fifteen years of knowledge in outside sales within the Wayne and Holmes county areas. She specialized in outside sales while working six and a half years for Snelling Personnel Services of Mansfield, Ohio. She received multiple awards and was recognized nationally throughout her service for exceeding sales goals for herself and for

the company. 

Watson followed an opportunity to work for Accurate Office Equipment for another eight years. She was interviewed and published in United Stationers' Office Line magazine after tapping into the school market in 2007 and maintaining accounts with five different school districts in Ohio.  After one year at ReMax, Watson has returned to sales in office and school supplies as an Account Manager with Friends.

Friends Business Source is one of Ohio's largest independently owned office supply

dealers. For over 45 years, Friends has been partnering with companies throughout Ohio,

southeastern Michigan, and now in Pennsylvania to maintain the best service and supply

of office related products. They specialize in office supplies, office furniture, catalog

machines, educational services, coffee supplies, printing services, promotional products,

branded apparel and janitorial supplies. As a single source supplier, Friends truly has

everything for people at work.

American Red Cross Helps Families Cope with Military Deployments

Class to be held prior to large mobilization of Ohio Guard troops

The American Red Cross Hancock County Chapter is offering Coping With Deployments: Psychological First Aid for Military Families, on Saturday, January 22 at the Red Cross office, 125 Fair St. in Findlay.  This important class addresses the stress and strain of deployments on military families and provides helpful tools for managing these challenges.  

Coleman says the Chapter has planned the course so service members and families can take advantage of the training prior to a large scale deployment of Ohio National Guard troops scheduled for later this year.  Ohio's 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team received an alert order in May to deploy about 3,600 Soldiers to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom; this is the largest mobilization for the 37th since the Korean War in 1952.  Included in the deployment will be service members from Hancock County and the surrounding area.  "By attending the Coping With Deployments training in January, they'll have several months to use the information provided to prepare their families for the mobilization," says Coleman.

The course is approximately 4 ½ hours in length and can be divided into an adult module (2 ½ hours) or a children's module (2 hours).  The children's module specifically teaches adults how to help young people through the stressful changes that accompany a deployment in the family. The course is free to military members and their families and it is taught in a confidential environment.  A free meal and free child care will be provided.  Pre-registration by January 17 is required.  To register for this class or for more information contact Nichole Coleman at armedforces@hancockredcross.org or (419) 422-9322 ext 226 or visit the chapter website at www.hancockredcross.org.

RED CROSS SCHEDULES BABYSITTER TRAINING COURSE

The American Red Cross Hancock County Chapter will hold a Babysitter Training course from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, January 17 at the Red Cross office, 125 Fair Street in Findlay.

Red Cross Babysitter Training teaches students the information and skills necessary to provide safe and responsible care for children in the absence of parents or guardians. The training helps participants develop skills in basic childcare and first aid, safety and safe play as well as leadership and professionalism. Students also receive tips on interviewing for and securing babysitting jobs. Participants must be at least 11 years old and need to bring a sack lunch and an infant-sized doll or stuffed animal to class. All students who finish the course successfully will be recognized as a Red Cross Certified Babysitter.

The fee for the class is $30, which includes the course manual, a Basic First Aid book, a CD-ROM with materials and information and a sitter's portfolio that includes a small first aid kit, penlight flashlight and other materials. Students must be registered by January 13. Registration and information is available at www.hancockredcross.org or by calling 419-422-9322 ext. 225. 

Employer Associations of America 2011 Economic Trends Survey Shows Cautious Optimism 

"The 2011 Economic Trends Survey displays cautious optimism" according to Jerry Bumgarner, a representative from the Employer Associations of America survey research committee. This comprehensive survey of nearly 6,000 organizations reflects a consistent, cautiously optimistic view of 2011 by employers across the nation. While the survey had responses from all 50 states, the results did not vary significantly by region or state.

Economy & Sales: Cautious Optimism

Survey Information

The Employer Associations of America's data reflects national conditions.  EAA surveyed 2,768 companies: 43 percent were from manufacturing, 14 percent from financial, health, 12 percent from service, and 31 percent from other industries.  The survey also represents all sizes of companies, from 1-99 employees (54 percent), 100-249 employees (23 percent), 250-499 (11 percent), 500-999 (6 percent) and over 1,000 (6 percent). The survey data was collected in mid-November through mid-December of 2010.

Contact Jack Hollister to obtain detailed breakouts at jhollister@employersassociation.com or 419-885-8505.