Flag City 4th of July Parade  

Monday, July 4, 2011  

• Parade starts at 1:00 pm on Main Street from Marathon to Hancock Co. War Memorial.
• Float Judging starts at noon for floats: First prize is $100, second prize is $50, third prize is $25.
• There is no charge for floats in the parade. All floats are highly encouraged to display the American Flag.
• Military personnel, veterans, police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel are invited to lead the parade. They volunteer to serve our country and communities.
• Children are invited to decorate their bicycles and will be in the parade.
• Click here for a flyer, and here for registration! 

Cultural Competency Training

Friday, June 17, 2011 12:30 - 4:00 p.m. (registration begins at Noon)

Hancock County Agency on Aging, 339 E. Melrose, Findlay

Registration Fee is FREE.  However, in exchange for free registration we ask that

you bring a canned good or a personal hygiene item that will be donated to local

charities for distribution in our Community.

Continuing Education Credits: Three (3) counselor and social worker credits have been applied for through Family Resource Center.

Registration: To register call or email Annie at 419-424-1985 or aaltman@bhg.org.

Training Sponsored By Hancock County Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction & Mental Health Services and Marathon Oil Company differences of all employees are respected and valued for business success.

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

This presentation is designed to explore differences in the workplace and its impact on productivity. This session will focus on a brief review of the diversity definition and the Diversity Wheel. From there, the new material will be:

· Personality differences in the workplace: Self identifying the four major personality types, how this impacts our ability to send and receive communications from others; how different personality types affect our leadership style.

· Cultural Patterns: This will focus on the socialization of our behavior and perceptions and how these differences can impede our interactions if not properly understood.

· Generational differences in the workplace: An examination of one of the more prevailing diversity and inclusion challenges effecting many businesses and organizations.

All three of these focus areas will be interactive and engaging with attendee participation highly encouraged!

Facilitator: Mark Butler, Manager of Diversity, Marathon Petroleum Company

Mark Butler graduated from Bowling Green State University in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.  He joined Marathon Oil Company in 1981 in their Findlay, Ohio office as an Associate Employee Relations Representative. During his 23 + years with the Company, Mark has held a variety of positions within the human resources function, some of which include Advanced Compensation Analyst and Human Resources Manager, for Marathon Pipe Line Company.

In 2002, Mark was assigned to his current position as Manager of Diversity for Marathon Petroleum Company. In this capacity, he's responsible for the development and implementation of diversity initiatives that create an environment where the talents and differences of all employees are respected and valued for business success.

Volunteers Needed for Zach Morgan Memorial Soccer Tournament 

"Zach Morgan was a 16-year old Liberty Benton junior who lost his life tragically on September 23, 2007.  Zach exemplified the characteristics of a leader in the way he lived his life.  He was also a member of the St. Michael The Archangel Parish.  The Zach Morgan Memorial Soccer Tournament is designed to benefit youth in Hancock County who share Zach's leadership ability.  The money raised from this tournament will provide funding to support youth leadership activities and the Zach Morgan Memorial Youth Leadership Fund at The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation.  This fund provides matching dollars to youth leadership programs, including ECLIPSe (partnership promoting youth philanthropy and service-learning) and Hancock Youth Leadership (HYL).  Zach was a member of both ECLIPSe and HYL.  The outpouring of support for this event from the community has been amazing.  We are excited to share that over $36,000 has been raised from the event over the past three years."

On Saturday,  June 18th, the 4th Annual Zach Morgan Memorial Soccer Tournament will be held.  At this time, I am working to coordinate volunteers for this event.  When it comes to volunteering for the Zach Morgan Memorial Soccer Tournament, we need as many people as are available to start to sign up for shifts.  You can go to www.zachmorgansoccer.com and click on Volunteer and put your information in and let me know what shifts you would like to work (you can work one or more shifts as you are able to).  Or you can just email what you can do (kbash@community-foundation.com ). 

Here is the information:

We mostly need Runners and Field Marshalls (easy jobs!) during the following shifts:

Saturday, June 18th at Liberty-Benton High School-

9-10am

10am-Noon

Noon-2pm

2-4pm

4-6pm (only need a few people here)

Individuals who are volunteering should also send me their t-shirt size so that I can let the folks ordering t-shirts for volunteers know what we need.

Thank you for any assistance you can provide.  If can help that day, GREAT!   

Kimberly Bash

(419) 425-1100

kbash@community-foundation.com

Camp Fire USA Summer Day Camp

Alright you pardners, it's time to rustle up some friends and get yourselves down to the Camp Fire! This summer at Camp Fire USA, Northwest Ohio Council (that's the Findlay area territory), we will be studying about going west. We will be living One Year in The Life of a Pioneer Family!

Join us as we beat the sweltering sun with protection of an air conditioned building, while exploring the seasons of the Old West. We will travel the trails, ask Cookie to rustle up some grub at the chuck wagon, and even explore areas of Northwest Ohio.

We will venture to Fort Meigs, Riverside Pool, and look up at the stars at Newhard Planetarium, among other expeditions. We will take one adventure off site each week.

With eight total sessions, each one lasting four afternoons (1- 5 p.m.) per week Monday to Thursday, the cost is only $40 per session and is led by our trained, background-checked trail leaders (no rustlers in this group!).  Sessions offered to youth who have completed grades 1st-5th.   Each week includes crafts, great chow (snacks), singing on the range and plenty of fun!

For the serious cowboy or cowgirl attending all eight sessions, the cost is $240, which means two weeks free! For more information or to register, stop by the ranch at the Camp Fire USA office, 305 W. Hardin St., call 419-422-5415 and ask for Miss Valli, or use the World Wide Spiderweb at www.campfireusa-nwohio.com.

Taylor, CSI Ohio Help Push EPA Permit Package Across the Finish Line Permits Will Benefit Ohio's Aggregates Industry

Lt. Gov. Mary Taylor today announced that CSI Ohio: The Common Sense Initiative and Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Director Scott Nally worked together to complete the delivery of a long-awaited package of general permits that will streamline the ability of Ohio's important aggregates industry to operate. The permits have been subject to negotiations between the aggregates industry and the Ohio EPA for the past ten years.

"EPA and the aggregates companies worked closely for a long time to develop a strong permitting framework that will serve as an important tool for the industry, but in recent years, they have been unable to close the deal," Taylor said. "What we were able to do through CSI Ohio was to make it a priority to get these permits done, bring the parties together to identify the final remaining issues, and push the permits across the finish line."

Unlike normal permits that are tailored to individual companies and can take significant time and resources to develop, general permits provide specific requirements and environmental protections that any company can agree to abide by.  General permits benefit businesses through consistency, certainty and reduced turnaround times. By simply notifying the Ohio EPA that it will operate under the general permit, companies can get to work immediately. 

The aggregates industry - which produces limestone, sand and gravel, and other industrial minerals that are the basic elements in construction activity - began negotiating the general permits in 2001 as part of an Ohio EPA/Industry Permit Improvement Group. The permits apply to aggregate processing, mineral extraction, and emissions from portable equipment used in the aggregate industry.  After the passage of Senate Bill 2, which codified CSI Ohio in state law, industry representatives met with CSI Ohio to seek a conclusion to the process and an ability to use the general permits that had been negotiated.

"Working with the EPA, we had been able to move the ball down the field in terms of crafting these permits, but we had been stuck at the two-yard line for a couple years," said Patrick Jacomet, Executive Director of the Ohio Aggregates and Industrial Minerals Association.  "CSI Ohio helped us get the ball across the goal line, and I don't think we'd be announcing these permits without the Lt. Governor's involvement."

"We will continue to work in partnership with Lt. Gov. Mary Taylor and her CSI Ohio team to identify issues we can address together that are important to all Ohioans," Ohio EPA Director Scott Nally said.

CSI Ohio was launched on January 10, 2011 by Gov. John R. Kasich to reform Ohio's regulatory policies to help make Ohio a jobs and business-friendly state. CSI Ohio will review Ohio's regulatory system to eliminate excessive and duplicative rules and regulations that stand in the way of job creation.

"THE KIRK FAMILY OF COMPANIES' BOOGIE ON MAIN STREET"

WILL CELEBRATE THE START OF SUMMER

Celebrate the start of summer at The Kirk Family of Companies' Boogie on Main Street,  June 3rd from 6pm to midnight.  Come to downtown Findlay as we fill Main Street with good food, libations and live entertainment.  This annual fundraiser helps support the many quality programs offered by The Arts Partnership. 

This annual event will be held on South Main Street between Main Cross and Crawford Streets. Attendees will enjoy live entertainment from two local bands, beginning with The Reunion Band and ending with The Brave Youngster. Cornhole boards will be located in Dorney Plaza courtesy of Nino's.  Kids can enjoy "The Basement Doctor's Kids Zone" which will be located in Dorney Plaza and will include a dunk tank, face painting, cotton candy, and more!  Throughout the event, patrons will be able to satisfy their appetite at any of the five food vendors located in the First Federal Bank parking lot.  Those vendors include Jim's Hot Dogs, Fricker's, Gyro Corner, Valentine's Concessions, Everhart Sno Biz.  A wide variety of food options will be offered for sale including fries, tenderloins, pulled pork and chicken breast sandwiches, gyros, cheese sticks, sausages, hot dogs/chili dogs, boneless wings, baklava, funnel cakes,  pop/water/lemonade, shaved ice and MORE!  Admission to this event is $5 for adults, $2 for kids 12 and under, and free for children in strollers.  Attendees of legal drinking age will be able to purchase libations with proper identification and in accordance with applicable laws.   

For more information, go to www.artspartnership.com or contact Amy Nostadt, Events Director at The Arts Partnership, by calling 419-422-3412 ext. 27 or emailing event@artspartnership.com. The Arts Partnership's Office hours are 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday - Friday. The Arts Partnership is located in Downtown Findlay at 618 South Main Street.

Boogie on Main Street is sponsored by The Kirk Family of Companies, First Federal Bank, Whirlpool Corporation, Rowmark, NWO Beverage, Baker Media Productions, The Courier, WKXA, WFIN, 106.3 The FOX, Findlay Inn & Conference Center, Nichole Renae Portraits, Hancock County Convention & Visitors Bureau, and TJD Industrial Cleaning & Maintenance.

ZONTA LANDING BOAT RENTALS OPENS FOR THE 2011 SEASON - SATURDAY, MAY 28

Hancock Park District's Zonta Landing Boat Rental Concession welcomes visitors as it reopens for the 2011 season on Memorial Day weekend Saturday, May 28 and continues to be open through Monday, May 30.  Park visitors are invited to tour "Down by the Old Mill Steam" to see wildflowers and wildlife along the banks of the historic Blanchard River by canoe, kayak or pedal boat.

Boat livery operations are open weekends and holidays, 1 to 7pm through Labor Day, Monday, September 5. In the event of high water or hazardous conditions, the concession may be closed at the discretion of the HPD staff.  Launch times close at 6pm for one-hour rentals and 6:30pm for half-hour rentals. Interested renters should keep in mind that rentals for all watercrafts are accepted on a first come, first serve basis.

Rental rates for all types of watercrafts, with a complete outfitting of life jackets and paddles, are set at $5.00 per half hour rental period during regular open hours. Other rates and details for special features include all day canoe float trips, company picnics/family reunions, and group rentals after hours can be obtained and arranged by contacting the HPD office during open hours, Monday through Friday, 8am - 4:30pm.  Arrangement for groups must be confirmed through the HPD office at least one week in advance with fees paid at the HPD office.  A $1.00 discount coupon can be downloaded on-line at www.HancockParks.com  under the Recreation session and redeemed at the HPD concession during regular open hours. 

For additional information regarding boat rentals, facilities or activities of the Hancock Park District contact the HPD office located at 1424 East Main Cross Street, Findlay, or call 419-425-7275 during open hours, M-F, 8 am - 4:30 pm or the Riverside Landing Boathouse, during open hours only, at 419-423-1902.

Lupus Walk: June 5th at the Detroit Zoo, Royal Oak

The walk is fast approaching!  Currently we have over 500 registered walkers and 50 plus teams. We are on target for record attendance at this walk.  We are hoping that we also set a new record for fundraising at our walk this year!  

Walk Donations can be made online or by mail, but remember that donations made online are typically 40% higher! Let's zap the zeros and show our support!   How much money can you FUNdraise?

Team Captains...It's time to Rally Your Team!

Now is the time to encourage your team members to continue raising money or to get started if they have not already. Here are some tips to rally your team:

Display your Team Spirit

Create Team T-shirts, Buttons or a Banner to show your team spirit and to rally your team.   Follow our simple Tips for Success

1)     Be creative!

2)     Stand out!

3)     Tell your story! 

Team T-shirts help build enthusiasm for the Walk during the weeks leading up to the event, and unite a team on the day of the Walk. Hold a design contest in your office then have a group of people judge the t-shirts and then pick the best design. Company teams typically integrate their company logo with creative artwork and the team name. You can be as creative as you like! Teams can put the official "Walk for Lupus Now" logo on the shirt as well (artwork and guidelines are available upon request).

Buttons with the name of your team and/or a photo of your inspiration are great to hand out to your team members. Some teams have had banners or signs made to carry on Walk day. Banners and signs are great because they can be held up high and your team members can find you in a crowd.

Volunteers Needed!!! Assist at the Walk! Please contact the office at: 419-423-9313 or email Aleta at foust@lupusnwoh.org.

RED CROSS HOLDING FREE CITIZEN CPR CLASS National CPR/AED Awareness Week June 1-7

One quarter of Americans say they've been in a situation where someone needed CPR. If you were in that situation, would you know what to do?  Studies have shown that being trained in hands-only CPR can make the lifesaving difference when someone suffers sudden cardiac arrest. To celebrate National CPR/AED Awareness Week, the American Red Cross Hancock County Chapter is holding a free Citizen CPR class on Thursday, June 2, 7:00-8:00pm at the Red Cross office, 125 Fair St. in Findlay. 

Red Cross Citizen CPR is a hands only CPR technique that involves simply using chest compressions on an individual who has suffered sudden cardiac arrest.  The technique involves no mouth to mouth contact and is best used in emergencies outside of hospitals where a bystander has seen another person suddenly collapse.  The American Red Cross launched an initiative earlier this year to educate 5 million people nationwide about this potentially life-saving technique.

The American Red Cross is the nation's largest provider of CPR and first aid training, and will continue to offer consumers a choice in their CPR training.  In addition to the new "Citizen CPR" hands-only course, the Red Cross will continue to offer courses with a full CPR certification using both compressions and rescue breaths. That's because full CPR with rescue breaths is still best in the health care setting and for children, adolescents, drowning victims, or people who collapse due to breathing problems. Health care professionals such as doctors, nurses, paramedics, EMTs and workplace responders should continue to be certified in CPR using compressions and rescue breaths.

Class size for the free Citizen CPR class is limited and registration is required.  Register online at www.hancockredcross.org, by e-mail to arc@hancockredcross.org or call 419-422-9322 ext 227. 

The Arts Partnership's Youtheatre

The Arts Partnership of Greater Hancock County invites students in grades 6-12 to participate in the Youtheatre Create-A-Play Workshop on June 17 and 18 at First Presbyterian Church.  During the workshop, students will write, rehearse, and perform a play, all within a 10-hour timeframe.

The students will meet on Friday evening to begin writing and then gather on Saturday to rehearse and perform their original plays.  Saturday's 8 p.m. performance, in the First Presbyterian Church Great Room, is free and open to the public.

There are limited spots available for students wishing to be involved in the workshop and these will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.  Students in grades 6-12 (2011-2012 school year) can register for these limited spots by Monday, June 13.  The cost to participate in the workshop is $25 ($20 for current members of The Arts Partnership).  Additional information and the registration form can be found at www.artspartnership.com or by contacting Peggy Grandbois, Education Director, at 419-422-3412, ext. 24 or education@artspartnership.com.

The Youtheatre program is made possible through generous donations from our sponsors:  Marathon Petroleum Company, The Courier, WKXA, WFIN, 106.3 The Fox, Tall Timbers Industrial Park, Millstream Area Credit Union, Northwest Ohio Orthopedics, Clyde-Findlay Area Credit Union, Cooper Tire and Rubber Company, First Presbyterian Church of Findlay, The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation and The Ohio Arts Council.

 
 "Art-See-Mart... Open-air shopping reminiscent of European street markets,

is coming to Downtown Findlay this summer"

Something new is coming to downtown Findlay! This summer, Art-See-Mart will allow consumers to do open-air shopping. Reminiscent of European street markets, Art-See-Mart will happen on the first and third Saturdays of June and July, and the first three Saturdays in August on Crawford Street between The Gaslight Gallery and The Findlay Art League. Artists and Craftspersons will set up booths by 8:00 am and be open for business until 1:00 pm.

Sponsored by The Gaslight Gallery, Art-See-Mart promises to provide opportunity to local and area artists to market their works. Items offered for sale must be made by the artist and be marketable quality. Merchandise to be offered must be approved by The Gaslight Gallery, who reserves the right to refuse items of inferior quality or questionable subject matter. Interested artists can complete a contract and submit it along with examples or photos of their art work. Contracts are being accepted now, or artists can register at The Gaslight Gallery on the days of the sale. They must arrive after 7:00 am to rent a space and sign a contract. Minors must be accompanied by an adult, who co-signs the contract. Space rental is $10.00, and artists are required to provide their own booth or table, and to keep their own records. There is no commission on sales for this event. Artists must clean up after themselves. Trash receptacles will be provided. Street space will be blocked off during set-up and tear-down time so artists can unload and load vehicles.

Interested artists and craftspersons can contact Janealla Smalley (drawntou@aol.com or 419 306-5720) or Roger Powell (rpowell152@aol.com or 419 424-3220). Contracts are available at The Gaslight Gallery at 117 E. Crawford Street, The Arts Partnership at 618 S. Main St, or at www.artspartnership.com . Artists can contract ahead for the entire summer or for the dates they are able to participate.

The Arts Partnership of Greater Hancock County is a non-profit organization serving Findlay and Hancock County.  Its mission is to provide, encourage, and promote quality arts presentations, educational opportunities and entertainment.  The Arts Partnership is funded in part by Findlay Area Arts Foundation, the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation, private donations, corporate and small business donations, and the Ohio Arts Council.

THE ARTS PARTNERSHIP ANNOUNCES FIFTH THIRD BANK'S COURTYARD CONCERTS SUMMER SERIES!

Break out of your lunch routine on Tuesdays this summer and join us for Fifth Third Bank's 2011 Courtyard Concerts Series.  The concerts take place on Tuesdays from 11:30am to 1:00pm in Latham Courtyard, next to Chase Bank downtown Findlay, Ohio.  Each week attendees can enjoy free live entertainment by area musicians.  Join your friends and co-workers for this unique outdoor dining experience!  Local restaurants will have a variety of lunch options available for purchase.  The 2011 series features the following musicians and eateries:

June 7 - J.D. Owen - Jim's Hot Dogs & More
June 14 - Jeff Tucker - Bread Kneads 

June 21 - Melody Road - Main Street Deli

June 28 - Paul Franks - Waldo Pepper's

July 12 - Jammin Jay & Johnny Red - Tavern at the Inn

July 19 - Johnathon Peeler - Joey Fratello's

July 26 - Pantasia - Bistro on Main

August 2 - David Lester - Great Scot! 

Courtyard Concerts are generously sponsored by: Fifth Third Bank, Cousino Harris Diaster Kleenup, The Ashley Group, Dean Sound, Heck Rentals, Robison, Curphey & O'Connell, The Courier, WFIN, WKXA, 106.3 The FOX

RED CROSS DIRECTOR ASSISTING RECOVERY IN JOPLIN

Todd James, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Hancock County Chapter, has been deployed to assist with the Red Cross relief efforts for the victims of the deadly tornado that struck Joplin, Missouri on Saturday.. 

James is a member of the American Red Cross Advanced Public Affairs Team, 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 will be reporting back to the Hancock County Red Cross during his work in Missouri and the chapter will be sharing his reports on their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/hancockcountyredcross. 

 After a disaster, knowing your family and friends are safe and well can bring great peace of mind. James says that the Red Cross provides a way for people to check on family and loved ones who live in the area affected by the disaster.  The Red Cross Safe and Well website is designed to help make that communication easier. The Safe and Well Website facilitates communication from inside the disaster affected areas to family members outside the disaster areas.   James says if you have loved ones in the affected area, visit www.safeandwell.org to see if they have registered with the website. 

The Red Cross depends on financial donations to help in times of disaster, both here in the United States and around the world. Those who want to help can make a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief.  To make a donation, visit www.redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Contributions may also be sent to the American Red Cross Hancock County Chapter, 125 Fair Street, Findlay, OH  45840.

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR RED CROSS SWIM LESSONS

The American Red Cross Hancock County Chapter is accepting registrations for Summer Swim and Safety lessons to be held in Findlay, McComb and Mt. Blanchard. 

Classes will be held in McComb June 20-30, in Mt. Blanchard July 5-15 and at Lakeview Swim and Tennis club in Findlay July 18-28.  Days and times vary by location.  The fee for Swim and Safety Lessons is $25 per student, with a maximum of $75 per family, regardless of number of children.  Students must be 6 years old by Aug. 1, or entering first grade.  Classes are on a first-come, first-served basis.  

Swim and Safety Lessons are offered for all skills levels, from Introduction to Advanced.  Registration forms will be sent with home with students in Hancock County elementary schools and by e-mail to Findlay City Schools' elementary students.  Registration is available online at www.hancockredcross.org and forms can be picked up at the Hancock County Red Cross, 125 Fair St. in Findlay. 

HONEYSUCKLE DAYS

This invasive species saga plays out over and over in many of our woods throughout Ohio.  Whether the invasive species is bush honeysuckle, autumn olive, buckthorn, garlic mustard, phragmites, reed canary grass, purple loosestrife, or any of the other nearly 100 invasive species found now in Ohio, the negative impact can be felt.

Here is your chance to do something about it!  Come help remove invasive species at Oakwoods Nature Preserve and Litzenberg-Heritage Trail (south side of US 224) on Saturdays through the summer from 9:30am to 11:30am.  If you have loppers, work gloves, and bug spray please bring them.  The Park District will have some additional tools, garbage bags, and limited gloves.  These sessions are open to individuals, families, and groups - a great way to earn service hours and help the environment around you - be part of the solution!   

Summer Schedule:

                Oakwoods                                                 Litzenberg, Heritage Trail

                Saturday, June 4                                      Saturday, June 18

                Saturday, July 9                                        Saturday, July 23

                Saturday, August 6                                   Saturday, August 20  

This program qualifies for Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist credit hours.  No registration required. Please contact Sarah Betts, Natural Resource Coordinator, sbetts@hancockparks.com, with any questions.  For the Oakwoods location, participants should meet in the first parking lot.  For the Litzenberg location, please meet in the Heritage Trail parking lot.   

SUMMER WILDFLOWER MONITORING

New this year, monitoring of our woodland wildflowers will continue through the summer.  Spring Wildflower Monitoring has been conducted at the Hancock Park District for many years.  Come see what comes after the spring blooms.  Join HPD staff at 9am to explore and record the wildflowers of Litzenberg Memorial Woods on Wednesdays and Oakwoods Nature Preserve on Thursdays beginning Wednesday, June 1. 

Summer schedule: 

Wednesdays - Litzenberg                     Thursdays - Oakwoods

                June 1, 15, 29                        June 2, 16, 30

                July 13, 27                             July 14, 28

                August 10                              August 11

No experience necessary.  Please dress for the weather and bring a hand lens, camera, wildflower ID book, nature journal, bug repellant, etc.  If the weather is questionable, please call the HPD office for potential cancelation.  Monitoring will not be conducted in moderate to heavy rain conditions.  Towards the end of the season, seed collection may also be included in the monitoring process.                                                                        

Participants should plan to be outside for around one and a half to two hours.  Please come prepared with proper attire and footwear for weather and ground conditions.  For the Oakwoods Location, please meet in the first parking lot.  For the Litzenberg location, please meet at the Gate House, just off the parking lot.  

This program is an Adult Nature Education Session, minimum 18 years old, and qualifies for Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist credit hours.  No registration required.    Please contact Sarah Betts, Natural Resource Coordinator, sbetts@hancockparks.com, with any questions.

Findlay-Hancock County Public Library SummerRead program

Readers of all ages will travel the globe this summer as the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library presents "One World, Many Stories" during the 2011 SummerRead program.  Children will explore places from Oceania to Russia through stories, crafts, music, dance and other activities.  The program will kick-off on June 1st from 9:30-8:00 p.m. with a day of registration, crafts, balloons and free books for kids to get their reading started.   Other events to be held throughout the summer will include programs and prizes for children, teens and adults.  For detailed program information, visit www.findlaylibrary.org/Children/SummerREAD.

The Findlay-Hancock County Public Library SummerRead Program is part of a collaborative effort joining public libraries from around the United States to promote reading to citizens of all ages. Summer reading programs began in the 1890s as a way to encourage school children to read during their summer vacation, use the library and develop the habit of reading.   Funding for the local SummerRead Program comes from the library's general fund and from the donations of local businesses, organizations and individuals.

Habitat for Humanity Family #22 Receive Keys to New Home & Keys to Education

Best Buy introduces a new "Connections" Program for 2011 Habitat Families

Habitat for Humanity of Findlay/Hancock County is celebrating the construction of its 22nd home at a 10:00 am dedication ceremony on Saturday, June 4, 2011 at 515 Morse Street.   This event is open to the public.   This is the first home built in the local Habitat affiliate's new Neighborhood Revitalization Program.

The new homeowners, The Dyer Family, look forward to receiving their keys and a bible for their new home along with thanking the 400 volunteers representing corporations such as Marathon Petroleum, Whirlpool, Cooper Tire, Blanchard Valley Hospital, and National Lime and Stone who worked so hard to help them reach this goal.   The Dyers have accomplished their 500 Sweat Equity hours by building their own home and volunteering at ReStore.  The home will be open Saturday, June 4th from 9 am - 11 am for a home tour concluding with a 10 am dedication program and blessing of the home.

Featured at the dedication, Best Buy will announce that its consumer tech services unit Geek Squad will introduce the new "Connections" Program for 2011 Habitat for Humanity Findlay/Hancock County families.  The initiative, unveiled by Andy Douglas, Best Buy Distribution Center and Daniel Walter, Best Buy Store, will begin this spring with the Dyer Family. Best Buy's Geek Squad will support the educational emphasis of this multi-faceted program by offering customized training to help 2011 Habitat partner families in Findlay/Hancock County connect through technology.  The Best Buy Distribution Center will provide the donated hardware of a laptop and printer and the Best Buy Retail Store will provide the educational software.  The Geek Squad will provide technical training for families.

"Rapid advances in technology will enable Habitat families to stay connected and continue with their education such as budgeting, home maintenance, and educational tools for their children," said Andy Douglas, Operations Manager, Best Buy Distribution Center. "We are honored to bring our companywide-commitment to providing access for people to one another with technology.  Our employees look forward to helping Habitat families of Findlay/Hancock County use technology to close an educational and financial gap."

Best Buy's Geek Squad will host a series of in-home trainings focused on educating families about using existing and cutting-edge technologies to connect and communicate for the purpose of increasing financial independence and stability.     Connecting Habitat families improves self confidence and promotes personal growth, as well as increasing financial knowledge.   Systems will be self-sustaining for families that cannot afford to connect to the internet.

Through donations of money and materials and volunteer labor, Habitat for Humanity of Findlay/Hancock County was able to build the twenty second (22) home in our community and sell it at an affordable price. The Dyers purchased the home with a no-profit loan, and their monthly mortgage payments will be used to build more Habitat houses.

To build with Habitat's Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative in July or September, visit the website at www.habitatfindlay.org or call 419-429-1400.

American Red Cross: 2011 Annual Meeting and Recognition Dinner 2011 Annual Meeting and Volunteer Recognition Dinner  THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 5:30-8:00pm

AREA AGENCY ON AGING/SENIOR CENTER, 339 E. MELROSE AVE. IN FINDLAY

BUFFET DINNER PROVIDED BY KATHY'S KORNER

TICKETS $10 (pay in advance or at the door)

Please join us as we review our services and activities, elect new members to our Board of Directors and celebrate our volunteers and supporters

Please RSVP by June 9 to Tracy Susko; suskot@hancockredcross.org or 419-422-9322 ext. 227

FOSTORIA COMMUNITY HOSPTIAL AUXILIARY AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS

The Fostoria Community Hospital Auxiliary awarded scholarships to five locals students pursing careers in a healthcare related field during their Spring Social Thurs., May 26. 

2011 Medical Health Science Scholarship award winners were:

Trisha Roddy, Fostoria High School, plans to study pharmacy at Ohio Northern University

Kylie Mathias, New Riegel High School, plans to study physical therapy at the University of Findlay

Lindsay Rinker, Van Buren High School, plans to study physical therapy at the University of Findlay

Logan Wolph, Hopewell Loudon High School, plans to study pre-medicine at Bowling Green State University

Alexandra Dauterman, Arcadia High School, plans to study biochemical engineering at The Ohio State University

The Fostoria Community Hospital Auxiliary supports Fostoria Community Hospital through its volunteer activities, hospital gift shop and scholarship program.

To learn more about Fostoria Community Hospital, visit www.promedica.org/fostoria.

NATURE PRINTING WORKSHOP

Capturing the essence of plants through Nature Printing is a very rewarding and long-lived past-time.  A Nature Printing Workshop will be held Saturday, June 11 from 10am-11:30am.  Participants will meet at the Wagon Shed at Litzenberg Memorial Woods.   

Nature printing is a fun and creative way to record physical plant properties through the use of water-based ink.  During the workshop, participants will learn basic printing principles and processes involved and depart with their own personal brayer and several frame-quality prints.  Please bring a full apron to wear.  Cost is $10 per person with class size limited.   

This program is an Adult Nature Education Session, minimum 18 years old, and qualifies for Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist credit hours.  Please contact Sarah Betts, Natural Resource Coordinator, sbetts@hancockparks.com, with any questions.  Please register for this program at the Hancock Park District Office, 419-425-7275, with $10 fee by Friday, June 3.   

Junior Naturalist: Fishing Fun in the Parks

Jerry Gallant, fishing enthusiast, presents Junior Naturalist: Fishing Fun in the Parks, a program all about fishing for children ages 9-12 on Thursday, June 9, from 10am - 12pm.  Topics covered include: types of poles and bait, fishing technique and etiquette, and what to do after you catch the big one!  We'll fish afterwards in Giertz Lake, so bring your pole and tackle. Program will take place at Shelter 4 located at Riverbend Recreation Area.  Register by Monday, June 6 with completed emergency medical form at the HPD office.  No fee.  This is a drop off program.  Contact HPD if you need a pole.

Riverbend Recreation Area is located at 16618 TR 208, off SR 568 east 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".

ASTRONOMY DAY AND STAR PARTY

Join the Millstream Astronomy Club for their Astronomy Day and Star Party, an annual event on Saturday, June 11.  Meet them at Riverbend's Shelter 5 at 7pm until after dark. They will safely observe the sun and sunspots through a telescope. Telescopes and binoculars provided to look at the wonders of the night sky. 

Riverbend Recreation Area is located off SR 568, east of Findlay at 16618 TR 208, Findlay, OH  45840. For more information about this and other upcoming programs, view the HPD Seasonal Guide at www.HancockParks.com or call the HPD office at 419-425-PARK and "Discover Your Hancock Parks".

Community Foundation Awards $235,621 in Grants

The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation Board of Trustees approved grants totaling $235,621 at the May board meeting. This total includes seven competitive grants totaling $203,600; two HancockREADS grants totaling $4,890; 11 Hancock Education Fund grants totaling $22,440; two ECLIPSe grants totaling $1,241; and two president's discretionary grants totaling $3,450.

This second round of grants brings the Community Foundation's 2011 grant total to more than $600,000.

COMPETITIVE GRANTS 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. Applications are reviewed four times per year.

Funding for competitive grants comes from unrestricted and field of interest funds established by donors at the Community Foundation. Unrestricted funds allow the Community Foundation's Board of Trustees to direct the funds where they are most needed. Field of interest funds are granted in the donor's chosen area of interest, such as health, education, or the arts.

The following seven competitive grants totaling $203,600 were approved by the Community Foundation's Board of Trustees at their May meeting.

HancockREADS GRANTS

HancockREADS provides funds to programs that support individuals in Hancock County who have difficulty reading, writing, or using basic math skills necessary in everyday life. The mission of this program 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. The following two grants totaling $4,890 were awarded by the HancockREADS Committee and approved by the Community Foundation Board of Trustees.

HANCOCK EDUCATION FUND GRANTS

The Hancock Education Fund provides grant dollars to promote classroom learning and to provide teachers with resources that encourage learning activities. Grantseekers are asked to focus on 21st Century Learning skills which include cultural awareness and diversity, creative thinking, technological savvy, and interpersonal communication skills. Education experts believe these are the skills necessary to prepare our students for success in a global economy.

An advisory committee comprised of members from the Community Foundation, Findlay Rotary and Findlay Rotary's Golden Apple Teachers meets semi-annually to review grant proposals. The following 11 grants totaling $22,440 were awarded by the Hancock Education Fund Committee and approved by the Community Foundation Board of Trustees.

ECLIPSe GRANTS

ECLIPSe (Emerging Community Leaders Investing in Philanthropic Service) is a youth grantmaking council that promotes youth philanthropy and integrates service-learning into education. During the 2010 and 2011 school year, students from the ECLIPSe youth grantmaking council and the Mayor's Teen Advisory Council merged and became ENGAGE. This new group will remain under the ECLIPSe umbrella and the mission remains the same. In addition to participating in their own service-learning projects, ENGAGE members provide grant funds to other youth-driven service-learning projects in Hancock County. The ENGAGE Youth Grantmaking Council, comprised of local youth ages eighth grade through college, reviews grant applications, meets and interviews potential grantees, and makes funding decisions based on established guidelines. The following two grants totaling $1,241 were awarded by the ENGAGE youth grantmaking council and approved by the Community Foundation Board of Trustees. Page 5 of 5

Visit www.community-foundation.com or call 419-425-1100 to learn more about how the Community Foundation is helping our community and the recipients' for these grants.

Upcoming Events at the Black Heritage Library & Multicultural Center

MEN'S MENTORING AND SUPPORT GROUP, first and third Sunday of each month from 4pm - 5:30pm.  Men helping men to face life's challenges. Meet at the Black Heritage Library & Multicultural Center located at 817 Harmon Street in Findlay.

MULTICULTURAL SUMMER CAMP "Join Hands Around the Word!" June 13th - June 17th from 9am -12pm at the Black Heritage Library & Multicultural Center- 817 Harmon Street. An exciting and fun summer camp to help students in grades 3 - 5 to gain an awareness and appreciation of different world cultures through multicultural crafts, storytelling, theater, dance, games,  songs and other fun activities.  Snacks will be provided. $50 per student.  Multiple family discounts available and some scholarships.  Call 419.423.4954 or 419.957.0590 to register by June 3rd.

Motowns famous musical premier group - The Contours featuring Sylvester Potts is coming to Findlay on October 29, 2011 at 7pm for a concert "The Time of Your Life!" Held at Winebrenner Theological Center, 950 North Main Street.  Cost is $32.50 and $28.50 for students with ID card and seniors 65 of age.  Call Black Heritage Library & Multicultural Center at(419) 423-4954 or tickets will be available at The Arts Partnership the mid-later part of June.