Hancock Leadership Class of '11 Hosts "Green Mile" Race to Raise Funds for Greenhouse

The Hancock Leadership Class of 2011 will be testing their green thumbs this year - They've chosen to build a greenhouse at the Blanchard Valley Center for their class project. Used for educational purposes, as well as plant and vegetable production for the Blanchard Valley School and sales to the community, the greenhouse will be a valuable asset to the program for developmentally disabled individuals from Hancock County and the surrounding area.

• To raise the funds necessary for the project, the class is hosting several fundraisers. On St. Patty's Day, they are holding a "Green Mile" race at the Findlay Inn & Conference Center. Each participant will receive a festive green beer or sports drink, and the first 100 registrations will receive a "Green Mile" t-shirt. Registration is $17 in advance, or $20 on race day.  A traditional Irish buffet will also be available for $8.95. The course will begin and end at the Inn, and awards will be given to the best overall male and female runners.   

• You can also plan to join the class on March 15 at City Barbecue for lunch or dinner - if you pick up a flier at the Chamber offices at 123 E. Main Cross St., 25% of your purchase with go to the class.

• Finally, Save the date April 2 for a 3 on 3 basketball tournament to be held at Findlay High School, and Friday, May 13 for the annual Hancock Leadership Golf Outing! 

To get in touch with the class, please contact the Chamber at 419.422.3313, or email rrahrig@findlayhancockalliance.com.      

Spaghetti fundraiser to benefit mom battling cancer and leukemia

As part of an effort called "Project DaraKay," friends and family of Dara Costiloe have joined forces with the Ohio Heaven's Saints Motorcycle Ministry to hold a spaghetti fundraiser on Saturday, March 12, to help with medical expenses from the 46-year-old Findlay resident's battle with Stage IV breast cancer and acute myeloid leukemia. 

The fundraiser, which is open to the public, is slated for 5 to 9 p.m. at the Lighthouse , 10055 US Rte. 224 W.  In addition to a dinner featuring spaghetti, bread, salad, cookies and a drink, the  event will include live guitar performances and a raffle for a variety of items, among them a new Macbook Pro computer.

Dara and husband Joe Costiloe have six children ranging in age from 9 to 23.

She was first diagnosed with Stage II breast cancer in 1998.  After treatment, Dara went into remission for 10 years.  In 2008, doctors told her that she had Stage IV breast cancer that had metastasized to her spine.  Again, she underwent treatment and went into remission until March 2010, when her breast cancer reoccurred.  At the same time, she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. 

Given just two to six weeks to live without treatment and seven months with it, Dara chose the latter.  Her cancer went into remission last August until just before Thanksgiving, when it reoccurred.  She is currently under the care of physicians from The Ohio State University Medical Center in Columbus.

Tickets for the dinner are $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under; raffle tickets are $1 each.  Deadline to purchase dinner tickets is March 9.  Raffle tickets may be purchased in advance, but will also be available at the door.  All raffle tickets must be turned in by 6:55 p.m. the day of the dinner; the raffle kicks off at 7 p.m. with the drawing for the Macbook Pro.  Raffle participants need not be present to win. 

Dinner and raffle tickets are available by calling Beth Nelson: 419-424-9499 or bnel80-spaghetti@yahoo.com. Tickets may also be purchased at Integrity Salon, 119 W. Sandusky St. 

Anyone wishing to donate raffle prizes should contact Courtney Karhoff: 419-721-1718; courtlensherman@hotmail.com; or Courtney Sherman Karhoff on Facebook.

Donations may also be made online at http://funds.gofundme.com/1ucrw.

Persons who want to volunteer to serve food should contact Cheryl Miller: millerca@thewavz.com.

Several Community Foundation Grant Deadlines Approaching

HANCOCK READS GRANTS

Applications for the HancockREADS grant program are due Friday, April 1. HancockREADS, founded in 2001, is an initiative of the Community Foundation designed to ensure that individuals and families in Hancock County enjoy the benefits of literacy. Many individuals in Hancock County have difficulty reading, writing, or using basic math skills necessary in everyday life. The mission of HancockREADS is to ensure that these individuals can find the help they need to become successful, and to ensure the current and future success of our children.

COMPETITIVE GRANTS

Letters of intent for the next competitive grant cycle are due Friday, April 1. If approved, full proposals will be due Friday, June 3. Board decisions for this grant cycle will be made in September. Competitive grants are awarded to nonprofit organizations that seek to meet community needs and match the goals, objectives, and priorities of the Community Foundation. Grantseekers must submit a written grant proposal for consideration. Competitive grant applications are reviewed four times per year. Page 2 of 2

Additional information and application forms for these and other grant programs are available at www.community-foundation.com. If you have questions regarding Community Foundation grants or deadlines, please contact Julie Brown or Kimberly Bash at 419-425-1100.

Inaugural Schneider Circle Participants Announced

The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation is proud to announce the twelve local nonprofit agencies that have been selected to participate in the inaugural Schneider Circle: Alzheimer's Association, Northwest Ohio Chapter, American Red Cross Hancock County Chapter, Camp Fire USA Northwest Ohio Council, Cancer Patient Services, Century Health, CHOPIN Hall, Findlay Hope House for the Homeless, Hancock Christian Clearing House, Hancock County Agency on Aging, Open Arms Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Center, The Arts Partnership, and Youth for Christ.

The participating agencies were selected based 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.

Desired outcomes of the Schneider Circle are: improved communication and collaboration among nonprofit organizations, strengthened executive leaders and governing bodies, and increased knowledge about and implementation of nonprofit governance and organizational effectiveness.

The Schneider Circle is a two year commitment. Participating agencies 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.

Katherine Kreuchauf, Foundation president, shared, "The selected agencies have a demonstrated record of excellence and the potential to continue to significantly improve the quality of life in Hancock County. Through the Schneider Circle, the Foundation seeks to support nonprofits to become self-sufficient entities always ready to meet community needs."

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.

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

Bluffton Hospital Ranks Higher than State and National Averages in Patient Satisfaction

Bluffton Hospital has received high scores in the latest Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) patient satisfaction survey.

The most recent HCAHPS survey results show that 87 percent of responding patients gave Bluffton Hospital an overall rating of '9' or '10' (on a scale where '0' was the lowest score and '10' was the highest). This compares to 68 percent statewide and 67 percent nationally.

In addition, 89 percent of surveyed patients said that they would "definitely recommend" Bluffton Hospital to family and friends compared to the state and national average of 69 percent.

Bluffton Hospital also ranked higher than Ohio and national averages on each of HCAHPS "key aspects of the hospital experience," including communication with nurses and doctors, responsiveness of hospital staff, cleanliness and quietness of the hospital environment, pain management, communication about medicines, and discharge information.

HCAHPS (pronounced "H-caps") conducts the national, standardized, publicly reported survey of patients' perspectives of hospital care, also known as the HCAHPS Hospital Survey.

For more information about HCAHPS, visit www.cms.hhs.gov/HospitalQualityInits and click on the "HCAHPS: Patients' Perspectives of Care Survey" link.

ANNUAL MAPLE SUGARIN' DAYS AT LITZENBERG MEMORIAL WOODS

Maple Sugarin' Day will be hosted Saturday, March 12 by the Hancock Park District at Litzenberg Memorial Woods located on US 224, west of Findlay.  A variety of activities will be offered for all ages. 

Beginning at 12pm, visitors will have the opportunity to step out on the trails, and back in time, for a living history and nature walk that will feature maple trees and sap collection in American culture.  Guided walks through the woods last about one hour and depart from the gatehouse every 15 minutes, with the last hike departing at 2pm. 

Enjoy stops along the trail where interpreters will explore Native American syrup making, sap science, and nature's sap lovers. Visit the 19th century pioneer sugar camp where costumed interpreters will be working hard to produce sugar and syrup to last them through the year. Groups are welcome and visitors are reminded to dress for the weather and ground conditions.   

The 1847 McKinnis House will be open from 12pm to 3pm for visitors to meet McKinnis friends and family of the 1800s. See for yourself what life was like in the winter on the farm.

Maple syrup products will be for sale in the Activity Barn.  Products provided by David and Ilene Fruth of The Sugar House, located near Vanlue, OH.  For more product information, The Sugar House can be contacted at 419-396-6751.  

Litzenberg Memorial Woods is located at 6100 US 224, 6 miles west of Findlay.  The site is handicap accessible with restrooms available inside the Activity Barn. 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".

Raccoon Run Winter Sports Center Opens This Weekend

Raccoon Run Winter Sports Center will be open this weekend. Conditions are prime for winter sports activities with the recent accumulation of snow that has blanketed the entire area. Raccoon Run will remain open weekends, Saturdays and Sundays, 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and as long as weather and ground conditions remain favorable.

The Center offers a complete outfitting of snowshoes and cross-country ski equipment for kids of all ages, up to a man's shoe size of 13. Rentals fees are set at $7 per hour or $20 for the day and are available on a first come, first served basis.  Cross-country ski equipment can be taken to other HPD park areas including Oakwoods and Litzenberg; however trails will not be groomed at these areas. Advance registration for all day rentals can be made in advance through the HPD office located at 1424 East Main Cross Street, Findlay.

Raccoon Run Winter Sports Center is located in Shelter #3 in the Big Oaks Area of Riverbend Recreation Area at 16618 TR 208, off SR 568 to TR 241 east of Findlay.

For more information regarding Raccoon Run Winter Sport Center or other upcoming programs view the HPD website at www.HancockParks.com  or call 419-425-PARK/7275 and "Discover Your Hancock Parks".  A Raccoon Run brochure can be downloaded from the website along with a discount coupon to redeem at the concession.  To check current snow and trail conditions on weekends, call the Raccoon Run Winter Sports Center at 419-424-1555. During the week, Monday through Friday, 8am - 4:30pm, call the HPD office.

Red Cross Asks People To Join During Red Cross Month

Hancock County Chapter Holding Open House

March is Red Cross Month, and the American Red Cross is asking people to join them in helping those in need by volunteering their time, making a donation, taking a class, or giving blood.

The Hancock County Chapter will hold an Open House on Wednesday, March 23, 7:00pm at the Chapter office, 125 Fair St. in Findlay.  James says Red Cross staff and volunteers will be on hand to talk about Red Cross services in Hancock County and volunteer opportunities with the Chapter. 

For nearly 100 years, U.S. Presidents have called on people to support the American Red Cross and its humanitarian mission. President Franklin D. Roosevelt was the first to proclaim March as Red Cross Month in 1943. Since that time, every president, including President Obama this year, have issued proclamations designating March as Red Cross Month.

The Red Cross has been helping people for 130 years, responding to disasters, assisting members of the military, teaching lifesaving skills, and serving as one of the largest blood suppliers in the United States.  Nationally, the Red Cross responds to an average of nearly 200 disasters every day. The organization provides around-the-clock link between those in the military and their families, and supplies blood and blood products to approximately 3,000 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country.

The Hancock County Red Cross responded and provided assistance to one hundred and twenty six people affected by local disasters last year. The chapter processed fifty emergency military cases and offered support and resources to two hundred local military family members, trained over three thousand people in CPR, first aid, babysitter training, lifeguarding and water safety classes, and collected over six thousand blood donations.

BVHS Pain Management Seminar Rescheduled for March 10

Blanchard Valley Health System (BVHS) has rescheduled its "Picture a Life with Less Pain" pain management seminar for Thursday, March 10 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in Marathon Auditorium at Blanchard Valley Hospital. The seminar had previously been cancelled due to snow.

The seminar is for men and women who want to learn how to live, work and play while minimizing pain. This event will include physicians and professionals speaking about:

Advances in pain management programs

Treatment and management of arthritis

Diagnosing mysterious pain symptoms

Relief from foot pain

Rehabilitation and therapy for injuries and pain

Reservations are required and can be made by calling 419.423.5551 or e-mailing spirit@bvhealthsystem.org.

"Picture a Life with Less Pain" is a Spirit of Women event. Both Blanchard Valley Hospital and Bluffton Hospital are members of Spirit of Women, a national network of leading hospitals dedicated to improving women's lives with innovative health and community programs.

United Way Conducting Text-to-Give Fundraising Effort for Flood Victims

United Way of  Hancock County has announced that beginning Thursday, March 3, anyone with a mobile phone with text messaging capability can text the word "united" to 85944 to make a $10 donation to United Way of Hancock County's Flood Relief Fund.

"United Way of Hancock County is committed to easing some of the burden of those affected by the recent flood and this is an easy way to help them out," said Keith DuVernay, president & CEO. "We will be coordinating needs and the funds available to help as many people as possible."

Funds will be used to assist with replacing appliances, furniture and renovations costs, for example. Individuals who require assistance should dial 2-1-1 and register their needs.

A one-time charge of $10 will be added to the texter's mobile phone bill. Standard messaging rates and additional fees may apply. All charges are billed by and payable to the mobile service provider. Proceeds benefit United Way of Hancock County Flood Relief Fund. Service is available on most carriers.

Blanchard Valley Hospital's Vascular Lab Earns Reaccreditation

 Blanchard Valley Hospital's Vascular Laboratory has been reaccredited by the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories (ICAVL).

 This accreditation recognizes labs that provide a high level of patient care and quality testing when diagnosing vascular disease. With this honor, Blanchard Valley Hospital's Vascular Lab becomes one of a growing number of vascular labs that meet or exceed the ICAVL standards for noninvasive vascular testing.

The BVH Vascular Lab was first accredited in 2002 and again in 2005 and 2008. The 2011 accreditation is valid for three years.

 The ICAVL is a non-profit organization established with the support of 11 medical societies including physicians, technologists and sonographers that represent medical specialties including cardiology, neurology, radiology, vascular medicine, vascular surgery, neurosurgery, internal medicine and biology.

Tickets to see "Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet" Author Available Now

The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation has announced that tickets are now available to hear Jamie Ford, author of the best-selling novel "Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet." Ford will be in Findlay on Friday, March 25, 2011 as part of the ninth annual CommunityREAD event. Ford will speak at Central Auditorium at 7:00 p.m. that evening and will be available to sign books after the program.

Tickets for this event are $5 each and can be purchased in person, by mail or by phone at the Arts Partnership box office, 618 S. Main Street, and at The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation, 101 W. Sandusky Street, Suite 207. Tickets are also available at DorAnne's Gift & Gourmet, Friends of the Library Book Cellar, George House Coffee & Tea, Main Street News, Mazza Museum, Mother Hubbard's Learning Cupboard, Readmore's Hallmark, and Common Grounds Coffeehouse & Cafe (Bluffton). Tickets will also be available at the door.

The focus of this year's CommunityREAD event is to encourage discussions regarding family relationships, friendships, ethnicity, race, discrimination, social obligation, regret, and the power of forgiveness and the human heart. The CommunityREAD event also highlights the HancockREADS mission to promote the benefits of literacy in Hancock County.

Many activities are planned for CommunityREAD month (March 2011). Members of the Hancock County community and surrounding communities are invited to participate in all CommunityREAD events during March. Details of book discussion groups and other events are available online at www.community-foundation.com.

For more information about CommunityREAD please visit www.community-foundation.com or call Lisa Houck at 419-425-1100.

RED CROSS REACHES OUT TO FLOOD VICTIMS
Mobile Units Bring Relief to Flooded Neighborhoods

The American Red Cross Hancock County Chapter has begun outreach services in neighborhoods affected by the flooding of the Blanchard River.  Red Cross mobile units in Findlay are distributing free meals and clean up kits to those affected by the flood.  Also, the Red Cross Wyandot District office will set up a distribution point at the Carey Fire Department, 127 E. North St., to distribute free clean up kits for those whose homes were affected by the flood. Kits may be picked up on Wednesday from 2:00 - 8:00 pm on and 10:00am - 6:00pm on Thursday.

The Red Cross emergency shelter in Findlay will be open for a third day at the Hancock County Agency on Aging Senior Center, 339 E. Melrose Ave. in Findlay. .

In addition to providing free meals and clean up kits, James says the Red Cross will soon be distributing financial assistance to those affected by the flood.  "Once we finish our preliminary disaster assessment of the area, our caseworkers can begin meeting with residents and working with them to offer some financial relief for their losses."   James says the Red Cross will begin the casework process by the end of the week. 

All Red Cross disaster relief is provided free of charge, thanks to the generosity of the American people.  Anyone who would like to make a donation to support the Hancock County Red Cross should visit www.hancockredcross.org or call (419) 422-9322.

KIWANIS TO HOST ANNUAL PANCAKE DAY LUNCHEON

Attendees to Fostoria Kiwanis Club's annual Pancake Day fundraiser Thurs., March 10 can count on getting a plateful -- or two, or even three or more -- of pancakes, and possibly a new TV or Cleveland Indians Opening Day tickets.
The 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. event is taking place at the St. Wendelin Parish Life Center, 323 N. Wood St. The meal, which is the club's largest fundraiser, includes all the pancakes you care to eat, sausages, coffee and orange juice. Tickets are $6 for adults, $5 for Golden Buckeye members, $3 for children five to 11 years old and free for children under five.
In addition to the meal, the club will be raising funds through the sale of raffle tickets.

Raffle prizes include: a flat-screen TV; Autographed Grant Jackson baseball; Cleveland Indians tickets; Toledo Mud Hens tickets; a Geary Family YMCA pool party; African Safari Wildlife passes; a golf package; and a variety of gift certificates from area businesses and restaurants.

Raffle tickets will be sold for $1 each, six for $5, 12 for $10 or 25 for $20.

All proceeds from the sales will go toward the operation of the Fostoria Kiwanis Club, which has been a part of the greater Fostoria community for more than 80 years. The club participates in a variety of community projects, especially those catering to children.

At this year's event, Campfire USA will have a display for their Absolutely Incredible Kid Day® initiative. This program provides adults with an opportunity to write a letter to a wonderful kid in their life. Letterhead and free postage will be provided. To learn more, visit www.campfireusa-nwohio.com.

Some of the group's activities include: providing shoes for needy children, offering car seat safety checks, recognizing students of the month from Fostoria, participating in youth and elderly mentoring programs, hosting an annual New Educators Luncheon, purchasing food for Thanksgiving and Christmas baskets, and participating in Mobile Meals and Adopt-A-Highway.

To learn more about Kiwanis, including how you can become a member, please contact Julie Reinhart, president elect, Fostoria Kiwanis Club, at julie.reinhart@promedica.org.

Free Tax Clinics to be held for Hearing Impaired

The Toledo Hearing and Speech Center is hosting a free tax clinic in Findlay to help eligible low and moderate income Ohioans who are deaf or hard of hearing. The purpose of the clinic is to obtain free federal and state income tax assistance, and to identify other work support benefits for which they may qualify.

The clinic will be held on March 9 and from 9 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. at the United Way of Hancock County, 245 Stanford Pkwy for deaf and hard of hearing individuals and their families only. Appointments should be scheduled in advance by calling call 419-241-6219.

The service is provided through the Ohio Benefit Bank (OBB), a Web-based, counselor-assisted program that connects low and moderate income Ohioans with access to potential work supports and public benefits.

Free tax preparation assistance is available through the OBB to working families and individuals whose household income is less than $60,000 per year. When using the OBB service, taxpayers also can determine their eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which directs more of the tax refund back to the taxpayer. The clinic also will allow individuals to apply for other public benefits such as food stamps, childcare and medical benefits, that may otherwise go unclaimed.

Trained counselors will lead individuals through the program, securing tax credits and public benefits for which they are eligible. The clinics are free to attend and tax refunds can be received in as a few as seven to 10 days.

To expedite the application process, applicants are encouraged to bring:

W-2 or 1099s or any other income statement;

Social Security numbers of all family members;

Deduction and credit information, such as tuition bills or child care expenses; and

Direct deposit information for savings or checking account.

To learn more about tax assistance programs and other available resources contact Ohio Benefit Bank by calling 1-800-648-1176 or visit www.OBB.Ohio.Gov. More information is also available by dialing 2-1-1.

Independence House is Highest Recommended Facility in Findlay and Fostoria by Resident Families

Families who have a loved one at Independence House would recommend the facility more often than families with a loved one in any other facility in Findlay or Fostoria, according to the 2010 Long-term Care Family Satisfaction Survey released by the Ohio Department of Aging. Families also ranked their satisfaction above the state average.

The survey reports that the average long-term care satisfaction score statewide was 87.93 out of a possible 100. Independence House earned a score of 92.1. They also earned a score of 98.6 in "would recommend to others" and 97.1 in "satisfied overall." These were the highest scores among long-term care facilities in both Fostoria and Findlay.

The survey asked families to rate their satisfaction with the facility's environment, activities, administration, direct care/nursing assistants, meals and dining, social services, therapy, laundry and general satisfaction with the facility. 

A total of 931 long-term care facilities participated in the survey.

Birchaven Village Ranked Above State Averages by Resident Families

Families who have a loved one at Birchaven Village have ranked their satisfaction above state averages, according to the 2010 Long-term Care Family Satisfaction Survey released by the Ohio Department of Aging.

The survey reports that the average long-term care satisfaction score statewide was 87.93 out of a possible 100. Birchaven Village earned a total score of 89.9. They also received high scores on "would recommend to others," earning a 93.6, and "satisfied overall," receiving a score of 94.2.

The survey asked families of residents to rate their satisfaction with the facility's environment, activities, administration, direct care/nursing assistants, meals and dining, social services, therapy, laundry and general satisfaction with the facility. 

A total of 931 long-term care facilities participated in the survey.

RED CROSS SETS MARCH CLASS SCHEDULE

The American Red Cross Hancock County Chapter will be offering the following Health and Safety trainings in March;

CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer and Healthcare Professional will be held on Saturday, March 12, 9:00am - 3:00pm.  Cost: $65

Pet First Aid will be held at the Wyandot Memorial Hospital on Wednesday, March 16th, 6:00-9:00pm.  Cost: $30

CPR/AED for Lifeguards with a skills review will be held on Saturday March 19th, 9:00am - 3:00pm.  Cost: $50   This class will be held in the Croy Gymnasium at the University of Findlay

CPR/AED for Lifeguards with a skills review will be held on Sunday, March 20th Noon- 6:00pm.  Cost: $50  This class will be held in the Croy Gymnasium at the University of Findlay.

CPR/AED for Adults will be held on Tuesday, March 22, 6:00 - 10:00pm.  Cost: $45

Registration and payment are due prior to all classes.  All classes will be held at the Red Cross office, 125 Fair St. in Findlay unless otherwise noted.  To register for a class, visit www.hancockredcross.org and click on Take A Class, call (419) 422-9322 or at the Red Cross office.

FOSTORIA COMMUNITY HOSPITAL TO HOST COOKING HEALTHY ON A BUDGET WEBINAR

Are you trying to cook healthier for you and your family, and stay on a budget? Join ProMedica Total Wellness for a Brown Bag Wellness Webinar Wed., March 16, from noon - 12:30 p.m. in the Fostoria Community Hospital Board Room, entrance 2 or 3.

Nathan Drendel, MS, RD, LD, a dietitian from ProMedica Total Wellness, will share tips about how to shop for and prepare healthy, inexpensive and tasty dishes.

This educational event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.

To register or for more information, please call the Fostoria Community Hospital ProMedica Total Wellness department at 419-436-6688.

Blanchard Valley Hospital Endoscopy Department Recognized for Quality and Safety

Blanchard Valley Hospital's Endoscopy Department has been recognized by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) for promoting quality and safety in endoscopy. The BVH Endoscopy Department is one of only 307 endoscopy units across the United States to receive this recognition.

The ASGE Endoscopy Unit Recognition Program honors endoscopy units that follow the ASGE guidelines on privileging, quality assurance, endoscopy reprocessing and CDC infection control guidelines and have completed specialized training on principles in quality and safety in endoscopy.

"We are honored to be recognized by the ASGE for our efforts to enhance quality and safety in our endoscopy unit," said Marlene Brunswick, director of perioperative services. "Receiving this certificate of recognition can give our patients confidence that we provide the safest conditions and best care possible."

Flood Relief Fund Established

United Way of Hancock County has established a flood relief fund at Fifth Third Bank as a result of the recent flooding in Hancock County. Contributions can be made in any amount at any Fifth Third location in Northwest Ohio.

"United Way of Hancock County is committed to helping to lift some of the burden of those affected by the recent flood and every bit helps," said Keith DuVernay, president & CEO. "We will be coordinating needs and the funds available to help as many people as possible."

Funds will be used to assist with replacing appliances, furniture and renovations costs, for example. Individuals who require assistance should dial 2-1-1 and register their needs.

Thank You, Lake High School "Flyers!" 

Lake High School students and staff wanted to "give back" and they did this morning in Findlay!  

Approximately 175 students and 20 staff members began their day at the United Way of Hancock County office where United Way staff assigned them to areas hit by the recent flood. 

The Lake High School students and staff contacted United Way of Hancock County with a desire to help as a way to give back after they received assistance from the region when their high school was destroyed by a tornado in June of 2010.

THANK YOU, Lake High School! That's what it means to LIVE UNITED! To see photos, visit our facebook page!

Liberty Tax Service sponsors Findlay Blood Donor Center

Come donate and receive $50 off tax services!

Liberty Tax Service of Findlay will be sponsoring the Findlay Blood Donor Center, located at 1100 Croy Drive, on Tuesday, March 15 from 12pm - 7pm and Friday, March 18 from 7am - 2pm.  Everyone who comes to donate blood at the Findlay Donor Center will receive a $50 coupon for tax services at Findlay LTS. 

The American Red Cross has entered into a national partnership with Liberty Tax Service (LTS). LTS is an international tax preparation company centered on excellent customer service. This is a broad partnership incorporating multiple Red Cross lines of service as well as opportunities for volunteerism.

"Liberty Tax Service understands the need for blood in the community and we're happy to take this opportunity to help replenish the blood supplies in this area," said Robert Ebright, manager of Findlay Liberty Tax.  

To thank donors, refreshments will be served at the Findlay LTS office, located at 1930 Tiffin Avenue, throughout the day. For children attending, giveaways such as foam crowns are available.

To schedule an appointment visit redcrossblood.org or call the Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767.

In addition, a used cell phone donation drive will also take place at Findlay LTS. Since 2004, the company has been supporting Cell Phones for Soldiers (www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com), an organization also started by teenagers wanting to make a difference for US soldiers.  The cell phones are recycled to provide calling cards so that troops stationed overseas can call home.

RED CROSS HELPS MILITARY FAMILIES PREPARE FOR DISASTER

The American Red Cross Hancock County Chapter will hold the March Armed Forces Family Network meeting at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 17 at the Red Cross office, 125 Fair St. in Findlay.  The topic this month is emergency preparedness.  Todd James and Ron Rooker of the Hancock County Red Cross will present information on how to Be Red Cross Ready for disaster, including how to assemble a family emergency kit and make an emergency plan.   A free dinner and free childcare will be provided.  Reservations are not required but are suggested to 419-422-9322 ext 226 or armedforces@hancockredcross.org

Today's military families - active duty, National Guard, Reserve and veterans - are spread across the United States.  Many live far from military installations and the support services they offer - but few are far from a Red Cross chapter.  Local Red Cross chapters across the country have been designated by the Department of Defense to provide services that address the unique characteristics of today's military service members and their families.  The Hancock County Red Cross Armed Forces Family Network meets the third Thursday of each month, 6:30 p.m., at the Red Cross office, 125 Fair St. in Findlay. Child care is provided.  For more information, contact Nichole Coleman, Coordinator of Service to Military Families, at 419-422-9322 ext. 226

 or armedforces@hancockredcross.org.