NEWSROOM
GFI Member Press Releases
GFI NEWS AND EVENT LISTINGS NOW AVAILABLE AT FINDLAYLIVING.COM
In addition to GFI’s E-briefings and website, GreaterFindlayInc. news and events, including ribbon cuttings, can also be found at www.findlayliving.com under Business>GFI News. Also, be sure to look for GreaterFindlayInc.’s feature spread in each monthly publication of Findlay Living Magazine.
UNITED WAY DAYS OF CARING SEEKS VOLUNTEERS AND PROJECTS-MAY 1 & 2
The Volunteer Center of the United Way of Hancock County is seeking teams of volunteers and projects for the 14th annual Days of Caring. This year, the United Way Days of Caring theme is “Work of the Heart” and will take place on May 1 & 2. This year’s event occurs during National Volunteer Week, which is April 27-May 3.
Each year, during United Way Days of Caring, hundreds of volunteers from local companies and organizations make a difference at local non-profit agencies by completing much needed projects. Last year, 420 volunteers worked 1628 hours, providing non-profit organizations in Hancock County with labor worth $30,407. The dollar figure is based on the 2007 national volunteer hourly dollar value of $18.77 per hour.
The Volunteer Center is encouraging corporate and community volunteers to devote at least four hours out of one workday to complete a service project at a local non-profit organization. Studies show that the benefits for company volunteer involvement includes a bolstering of team spirit among participating employees, increased company morale, exposure in the community, and a greater understanding of how commitment of time and money makes a difference.
Non-profit agencies should send project ideas by March 21 to the Volunteer Center. Some of last year’s projects included taking inventory of supplies, preparing agency mailings, landscaping work for different organizations, painting inside and out, and cleaning and mulching trails for local parks and non-profit campgrounds. The deadline to sign up teams is April 4. To submit project ideas or register a team, contact Bev Phillips, Volunteer Services Director, at 419-423-1432 or bphillips@uwhancock.org. Registration materials for projects and volunteers are also available online at www.uwhancock.org.
CELEBRATE DOWNTOWN FINDLAY WITH DORANNE’S SPRING OPEN HOUSE-MAY 1-3
DorAnne’s Gifts & Gourmet will host a Spring Open House May 1-3 located at 327 S. Main St., Findlay. The store will be open until 9p.m. Friday, May 2 for Downtown Findlay’s ArtWalk. New food lines along with free samples and recipes will be provided with the purchase of product. A Puppet and Magic Show “A Knight’s Tale” will be featured on Saturday, May 3 at 10:30 a.m. Door prizes, in store specials and food sampling will be available throughout the event.
For more information, contact DorAnne’s at 419-425-5510 or visit www.dorannesgiftsand gourmet.com.
OHIO IN THE CIVIL WAR TRAVELING EXHIBIT-MAY 1-31
This May, the Wood County Historical Center & Museum focuses their attention on Ohio’s role in the Civil War with a traveling exhibit, tea and many relevant books available in their gift shop.
Ohio in the Civil War-Traveling Exhibit will be held May 1-31. This exhibit educates and entertains the audience on Ohio’s vital role in the Civil War including: Johnson’s Island & Camp Chase prisoner of war camps and the battle of Buffington Island. Exhibit subtitles include: The War Begins, Ohio Responds, Ohio’s Sacrifice, Andrew’s Raiders, Prisoners of War and From Officer to President. The traveling exhibit on loan from the American Civil War Museum of Ohio in Bowling Green Ohio.
Ohio in the Civil War Tea will be held May 8 at 7 p.m. at Wood County Historical Center & Museum in Bowling Green. The presentation will present Ohio’s role in the Civil War. Mark Young, Civil War reenactor and owner of the American Civil War Museum of Ohio, located in downtown Bowling Green, will be the guest speaker. The program will touch on Ohio’s vital role in the Civil War including Johnson’s Island & Camp Chase prisoner of war camps and the battle of Buffington Island. Young’s presentation will feature several artifacts and exhibits from the American Civil War museum, which will be on display for the entire month of May. Reservations are necessary at 419-352-0967 or museum@woodcountyhistory.org.
The gift shop will feature “Civil War Stories” by Jim Mollenkopf, “Wood County’s Role in the Civil War” by the Wood County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society, “Mitchell Raiders” by the Wood County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society and “Civil War for Kids” activity book in addition to many other kid-friendly titles.
The Museum is conveniently located ½ mile from I-75 exit 179. Turn East on Rt. 6 towards Fremont, then right at County Home Road.
Consider a 2008 Tea Series Card! Get six tea admissions for the price of five. Only $60 ($50 for Society Members). Makes a great fit or special treat just for you. Upcoming teas include: June 12 Victorian tea, July 10 Children’s Tea, August 14 Herb Garden Bunch & Tour, Sept. 11 Hobo Tea, October 9 Psychic Tea, December Christmas Tea.
For more information visit www.woodcounthhistory.org or contact Kelli Kling, marketing, public relations and special events at 419-352-0967 or museum@woodcountyhistory.org.
MARCH OF DIMES FINDLAY MARCH FOR BABIES-MAY 3
Walk America is now March for Babies and it is going to be better than ever! The March of Dimes champions the needs of moms and babies in your community and across the nation.
The March of Dimes Findlay March for Babies will be held Saturday, May 3, 2008. Registration for the 3-mile route begins at 8 a.m. with the walk beginning promptly at 9 at Riverside Park. Each Walker is challenged to raise $200. To sign up, visit www.marchforbabies.org or contact Ruth Griffin rgriffin@marchofdimes.com.
How you can help
Form a family team: these are teams of families and friends organized by parents who’ve been personally touched by our mission. In 2007, Family Teams raised over $11.5 million.
Form a corporate team: your employees will gain the satisfaction of knowing they’re raising money to help millions of babies get a healthy start in life.
Become a corporate sponsor: it can help your company increase sales and store traffic, enhance brand image, introduce new products, strengthen business-to-business relationships and improve employee morale.
Where the money goes
Seventy-five percent (75%) of donations are spent on programs that help save babies’ lives. In Ohio, the March of Dimes is currently funding $200,000 in community grants aimed at educating women about how to have a healthy baby, and other programs that support our mission. In Ohio, the March of Dimes is currently funding over $3 million in research grants and conducts seminars and distributes educational materials to health care providers.
PRIMROSE HIRES FASTEST PANCAKE FLIPPER, MAGICIAN TO BENEFIT HOSPICE-MAY 3
Primrose Retirement Communities will host a ‘Magic In May’ all you can eat pancake breakfast to benefit the Bridge Hospice Care Center on Saturday, May 3 from 8 to 11 a.m.
Chris Cakes, Guinness Book of World Record holder for ‘the fastest pancake flippers in the world’ will be on hand to serve the public. “Chris Cakes has served 5 presidents and is entertainment for the whole family,” says Deb Benson, Community Manager for Primrose.
Strolling magic will be performed by Mr. Chris Topel of Magic & Memories.
Tickets are $6 and will be available at the door. Breakfast includes: all you can eat pancakes, sausage, coffee, and/or orange drink. All proceeds will be donated by Primrose to the Bridge Hospice Care Center.
“We appreciate all the support Primrose is offering The Bridge Hospice Care Center as well as the community,” said Rachel Butler RN, BSN, Manager Bridge Hospice Care Center.
For further information contact Shelly De Vreese at 419-422-6200 or Rachel Butler at 419-423-5574.
CAMP GLEN OPEN HOUSE-MAY 3
Camp Glen will host an open house 1-4 p.m. April 3. Located at 6580 S. Township Rd 131, Tiffin, Ohio 44883 the event will feature archery, crafts, campfires, s’mores, storytelling and more. For more information, visit www.campglen.com or call 419-447-7459.
12TH ANNUAL FISH FESTIVAL-MAY 3
Young anglers can try their luck as the Hancock Park District hosts its annual Youth Fishing Event on Saturday, May 3, from 8 – 11am at Giertz Lake in Riverbend Recreation Area. The event is being hosting in cooperation with a trout stocking courtesy of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
The event is open to all interested youth, 5 – 13 years of age, and must be accompanied by an adult (at least 18 years of age). Upon arrival all anglers must register at the Lake Front Activity Center, which starts at 7:30am. Fishing will be allowed by bank only. Children must do the fishing, but limited adult assistance is permitted. All state fishing rules and regulations must be followed and anglers are asked to take home the first five trout they catch. No catch and release, permitted. Live bait will be for sale on site, provided by P & A Tackle.
Throughout the morning, registered participant names will be drawn for random prize drawings. Participants must be present to win. Prizes are being donated courtesy of the Findlay Optimist Club, WFIN/WKXA, Ohio Division of Wildlife, Burger King on Tiffin Ave. and Centennial Screen Printing and Engraving. Food and drink concession will also be available by the Findlay Area Civitan Club in shelter 4.
Local wildlife and conservation groups will be having information booths in The Lodge this year from 8am-12pm. Children’s activities will also be taking place. Groups that are participating are Hancock Co. Solid Waste, Bluebirds of Hancock County, Blanchard River Watershed Partnership, Pheasants Forever, National Wild Turkey Federation, and HPD.
The Youth Fish Festival will be held rain or shine, except in the event of extremely threatening weather conditions.
Riverbend Recreation Area is located on 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”.
FINDLAY LIONS CLUB AUCTION-MAY 13
The Findlay Lions Club will host an auction 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 13 at The Lighthouse located at 10055 U.S. ST 224 West, Findlay. All proceeds will go to Greater Findlay community members with eye care exam and eyeglasses.
A variety of items donated from local retailers are available for bid. Items include a Ben Roethlisberger autographed football, dishwasher, YMCA Family Membership, gift certificates to area merchants and much more!
All purchasing bidders at the auction will also be placed in to a drawing for a $100 savings bond.
For more information, contact Ryan Kidwell, Findlay Lions Club President at rkidwell9@woh.rr.com.
HISTORIC BARN AVAILABLE FROM PARK DISTRICT-MAY 15
An old barn along the river off SR 568 is available for the best offer to the Hancock Park District by May 15, 2008. The structure is deteriorating and must be removed by any interested persons at their own risk. The property was purchased by the Hancock Park District (HPD) with state grants as natural areas for watershed and floodplain protection, and the barn was recently turned over to HPD. The barn must come down as it is in the flood plain and has been damaged by both floods and recent storms.
The Park Districts is hoping to find sympathetic barn-lovers who may wish to salvage the timber and siding to reclaim the native lumber. It will also save tax funds for its removal and clean-up. The area of the barn is closed for safety reasons, but may be viewed from the road located across from 14431 SR 568 (aka East Sandusky Street), just east past Bright Road.
Built prior to 1900, the century-old bank barn is considered historic due to its age and remaining for 4 generations in the same family. George Washington Kistler, and later his descendants the Vogelsong family, have farmed the area in Marion Township since the 1920’s. Builders of the barn are not known, but stone and timber may have come from the farm.
Offers will be considered for any and all materials along with clean-up of the site. Cut stone foundations will remain with the Park District for future park projects, then the area graded and grassed seeded. Persons removing material must sign a waiver of liability and coordinate safety at the site daily along the state highway. Work may begin later May after best offer is considered. All contacts need to be directed to the Hancock Park District, 1424 E. Main Cross Street, Findlay Ohio 45840, telephone 419-425-7275.
CAMP FIRE USA HOST DISH CLOTH SALE
Camp Fire USA is currently hosting dish cloth sale fundraisers. The dish cloths are $1.50 each and are available in red, yellow, green and blue. For more information, contact Lynne at the Camp Fire USA office at 419-422-5415.
WHEN IS THE NEXT WOLF’S PREMIUM GOURMET NUTS FUNDRAISER?
This is what all your satisfied customers will be asking. Introducing a nutty way to earn an impressive 30% profit for your fundraising needs. Because our products cost a bit more than traditional fundraising products, our 30% program means larger profits for your organization. Profits are paid directly and immediately to you.
Your organization will be selling a unique and delicious product not offered by any other fundraising company. Every customer will be satisfied because every package is guaranteed.
Contact us today to receive more information, toll free at 1.866.889.6887 or www.wolfiesnuts.com, and click on the Fundraising program tab in the Business section.
$34,630 TCF GRANT LEVERAGES OVER $170,000 FOR NEW BIKEPATH
The Hancock Park District has been awarded a grant of $34,630 by The Findlay – Hancock County Community Foundation (TCF) for the new Blanchard River Greenway Trail project. Funds are being provided by 6 sources of The Community Foundation including the George Countryman Fund, Robert L. and Dortha W. Stober Fund, Hancor Inc. Fund, Ivan and Dorothy Gorr Fund, the Key Bank Unrestricted Fund, and the Cooper Tire & Rubber Company Fund.
The TCF grant has helped leverage $170,000 of additional matching funds by the Findlay Rotary Club ($50,000), the City of Findlay ($50,000), the Hancock Handlebars Bicycle Club ($5,000), and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Recreation Trail Fund ($65,000). Park District Director Tim Brugeman says such support “confirms the good stewardship of local tax dollars by the Board of Park Commissioners in moving ahead with this project with a public – private partnership. It is a project the public needs and will pay for to return the Blanchard River and our trails to the scenic, recreational asset it benefits this area most of the year”.
The bikepath project connects Downtown Findlay to Riverside Park and is expected to be under construction this fall. The $2 million riverfront revitalization is being funded 80% by the Ohio Department of Transportation Community Enhancement Fund, which are federal funds to the Sate of Ohio. When completed, 2 miles of paved bikeway for all recreational uses will connect neighborhoods, parks and public service for a safe, scenic access along the north riverbank.
The Community Foundation has a rich history of supporting the conservation, recreation and beautification of the Hancock Parks System through various grant funds since established in 1992. TCF has two endowment funds for the Hancock Parks Foundation for 1. general use of the parks and 2. bicycling projects, as part of over 200 funds that benefits Findlay and Hancock County.
FINDLAY-HANCOCK COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION BEGINS EXECUTIVE SEARCH FOR PRESIDENT & CEO
The Board of Directors of the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation has formally begun the search for the Foundation’s next President & Chief Executive Officer. The Foundation’s current CEO, Barbara Deerhake, has served in this leadership capacity for 20 years and plans to retire in 2008.
The Board has appointed a 5-person Search Committee with board member G. Norman Nicholson serving as Committee Chair. Mr. Nicholson says, “Our Committee has developed a profile with the experience and leadership characteristics of our preferred candidate. We are open to executives with backgrounds in foundation management, nonprofit leadership or private sector experience with a commitment to our mission to serve Hancock County.”
The Foundation has engaged Waverly Partners, LLC, a national retained executive search firm, to identify and recruit candidates on a local, regional and national level for the CEO position. Interested parties should contact search consultants Eric Peterson or Heidi Milosovic at Waverly Partners via email at FHCCF@Waverly-Partners.com; all inquiries will be held in confidence. Information about the position can also be found on the foundation’s website www.community-foundation.com.
About The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation
The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation (TCF) has a rich history of assisting individuals, families and corporate entities to realize their charitable visions. Established in 1992 as an outgrowth of a one-time gift from L. Dale Dorney in 1976 to The Cleveland Foundation, TCF has evolved into a foundation with more than 250 funds and more than $75 million in assets. Since its formation, TCF has increased its yearly grantmaking total from $456,734 in 1992 to over $2.7 million in 2007. Visit www.community-foundation.com or call 419-425-1100 to learn more about how TCF is helping our community.
ALLEN FILM & VIDEO DOUBLES CAPABILITIES
Allen Film & Video, a video, motion graphics and audio media provider in Northwest Ohio, has recently strengthened its leadership position with the acquisition of its second high-definition camera. Company president KC Allen stated Friday that, “It greatly enhances our story-telling abilities. Now we’re not limited to one camera angle. We’re also not limited to one production at a time, because the second camera can act as a stand-alone second unit.” Allen was also pleased at the size of the new camera. “It’s a smaller camera that is packed with all the same capabilities as our larger camera. They come from the same line, but with this one I can get into places the other camera could never go because of its size.”
The Sony PMW-EX1 is the latest camera that carries Sony’s prestigious CineAlta mark, and the newest member of the tapeless acquisition XDCam-HD line. Film professionals nationwide have called the EX a serious contender in the world of motion pictures and video.
Allen Film & Video produces video for business and industry deliverable to DVD, broadcast or the Internet. Mr. Allen has also been picked to produce the inaugural Columbus 48 Hour Film Project this summer.
NORTHWEST OHIO FLOOD MITIGATION PARTNERSHIP WEBSITE
The Northwest Ohio Flood Mitigation Partnership has recently launched their new website, www.floodpartnership.org. Emails can be directed to info@floodpartnership.org.
EDWARD JONES RANKS HIGH ON BEST PLACES TO WORK IN OHIO LIST
The financial services firm Edward Jones recently was named the No. 2 large-sized company on the “Best Places to Work in Ohio” ranking, according to the firm’s five Findlay financial advisors.
The five Findlay financial advisors include: Steve Arnold, Mike Martin, Rich Rowe, Dan Smith and Hugh Tavernier.
Edward Jones has 369 branches all over Ohio. The firm is growing, adding branches and seeking new financial advisors who are interested in operating an entrepreneurial office with eh support and benefits of one of the oldest and largest firms in the industry.
The “Best Places to Work in Ohio” honor is the most recent in a series of important recognitions the firm recently has received. For the ninth year, Edward Jones was named one of the “100 Best Companies to Work for in America” by FORTUNE magazine in its annual listing. The firm ranked No. 4 nationally. For the 15th consecutive year, Registered Representative a trade magazine, rated Edward Jones No. 1 among the nation’s leading brokerages in its anonymous survey of the firm’s own brokers.
Edward Jones provides financial services for individual investors in the U.S. and, through its affiliates, in Canada and the United Kingdome. Every aspect of the firm’s business, form the types of investment options offered to the location of branch offices, designed to cater the individual investors in the communities in which they live and work. The firm’s 10,000—plus financial advisors work directly with more than 7 million clients to understand their personal goals--from college savings to retirement—and create long-term investment strategies that emphasize a well-balanced portfolio and a buy-and-hold strategy. Edward Jones embraces the importance of building long-term, face-to-face relationships with clients, helping them to understand and make sense of the investment options available today.
Edward Jones is headquartered in St. Louis. The Edward Jones interactive website is located at www.edwardjones.com, and its recruiting website is www.careers.edwardjones.com. Member SIPC.
HANCOCK COUNTY SUPPORT/ADVOCACY SERVICES SCHEDULE-APRIL 2008
FREE Eating Disorder Support Group-1st and 3rd Thursdays, 7-8:30 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church (2330 S. Main St). Call or email Joy Anderson, LSW with any questions or concerns at 419-425-8709 or findlayanad@yahoo.com. (Affiliated w/ ANAD – National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders – www.anad.org)
Develop your Advanced Directive for Mental Health Treatment -2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 1-2 p.m. at Focus On Friends (509 Trenton Ave.). Facilitated by Wanda Baughman and Jim Martin. Call Wanda at Focus On Friends at 419-423-5071 w/ questions or to sign up.
Hancock CARES Flood Survivor’s Support Group-Every Tuesday, 6-7 p.m. at the Campfire Building (305 W. Hardin). Share your stories and ideas for rebuilding with other community members affected by the flood. Call Hancock CARES at 419-306-4176 with questions.
Persons Affected by a Loved one’s Suicide (PALS) support group-Thursday, April 24, 7 p.m. at Blanchard Valley Hospital, 2nd floor Ruse Bldg. above the emergency room. This support group is free and open to anyone dealing with grief following a suicide. For more information, call Nancy Stephani at Century Health, 419-422-3711.
*Visit www.ohio.networkofcare.org – Ohio’s Network of Care for Behavioral Health!!*
**Look for daily schedule of 12 – Step meetings (AA, NA, Al-Anon) in The Courier. Meetings designated as “open” are open to the public.
***Would you like to get involved in the FIRST ANNUAL NAMI of Hancock County WALK (happening 4/26) to help raise awareness and GROW our local chapter? – call Gina Lewis (429-1423) to find out how. **
Questions about the above or other Support and Advocacy Services, call Gary Bright, Director of Support and Advocacy Services at Century Health (419-425-5050 off. Or 419-889-8367 cell). Email Gary at gbright@centuryhealth.net to be added to this email list and get the schedule electronically each month.