Community Focus

NON-DATED EVENTS

DOWNTOWN TIFFIN CLEAN-UP DATES
The Downtown Tiffin Design Committee announces its scheduled clean-up dates for 2024, inviting all community members to participate in revitalizing the downtown area. The clean-up events will take place on April 13, June 15, August 17, September 28, with a special leaf clean-up on November 30. Participants will gather at Cherry Alley promptly at 9 am, concluding at 11 am. The Downtown Tiffin committee will provide trash bags, brooms, dust pans, and rakes. Additionally, volunteers will receive a free snack coupon redeemable at various downtown businesses such as Jolly’s, FroZone, and others. Groups of volunteers are encouraged to join a “Litter League” team competition, a community-wide effort dedicated to promoting litter cleanup and beautification. The Litter League is a baseball-themed approach and aims to ‘strike out’ litter in Downtown Tiffin. Teams may consist of businesses, neighborhood groups, faith-based organizations, private clubs, school groups, sports teams, civic organizations, and individuals alike. For more information, visit https://www.downtowntiffin.org/events. To sign up as a volunteer for any of the clean-up dates, visit: SignUpGenius.

MYLANDER FOUNDATION
The Distribution Committee of The Mylander Foundation is now accepting applications from tax-exempt organizations for grants to be awarded by the Distribution Committee in June 2024. The Distribution Committee will award grants to local charitable organizations classified by the IRS as 501(c)(3) organizations. Application forms may be obtained from Eric M. Muehlhauser, Chairman of the Distribution Committee, C/O Flynn, Py & Kruse, L.P.A.,165 East Washington Row, Sandusky, Ohio 44870 or online at www.mylanderfoundation.org. In order to be considered for a June 2024 grant, completed applications must be submitted to the Distribution Committee Chairman by April 16, 2024. The Mylander Foundation was established in 1987. Distributions are made each year to Firelands Regional Medical Center, Grace Episcopal Church, the Sandusky City Schools, Bowling Green State University, the City of Sandusky, Firelands Symphony Orchestra and A.T. Still University. Part of The Mylander Foundation’s yearly distribution is made by a Distribution Committee to various charitable, religious, educational, and governmental organizations. The Committee is composed of officers, members, and officials of various local charitable, non-profit and governmental organizations. Since the inception of The Mylander Foundation, the Distribution Committee has awarded monetary grants to organizations for the purpose of sponsoring specific projects, purchasing needed equipment and supplies, and providing educational materials to benefit people served by Erie County based, tax-exempt organizations and the students in the schools of Erie County. All interested local charitable organizations classified by the IRS as 501(c)(3) organizations (including those organizations who may have been awarded grants in prior years, those who have previously applied but were not awarded grants, and those who have not previously applied), are encouraged to submit their application to The Mylander Foundation at this time.

BERLIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
Berlin Public Library presents Mellow Mondays [ Teen Services ] on Mondays, April 15, 22, and 29 from 3-3:30pm. Mondays can be tough, especially in middle school. Each Monday after school join us at the Berlin Heights library for an hour of relaxing crafts, immersive gaming, and hanging out. For ages 8-14.

2024 LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE
The City of Sandusky is pleased to announce the 2024 Sandusky Love Where You Live Neighborhood Cleanup Series hosted by City Commissioner Dave Waddington. This year’s series will consist of 13 events held throughout the spring, summer, and fall, in various locations throughout the city.
Starting on Saturday, April 13, the cleanup series will begin at the Tiffin Ave underpass, where volunteers will gather to clean up the area. Other locations include the South Side, Orlando Pace Park, Jaycee Park, Downtown Waterfront, AMVETS Ball Fields, Central Park/Monroe St., Farwell Park/Cedar Point Drive, Huron Park/Greenhouse, Cholera Cemetery and Neighborhood, and Pipe Creek.
The Sandusky Neighborhood Cleanup Series is an opportunity for residents to come together to make a difference in their community by helping to keep their city clean and beautiful. Volunteers of all ages are encouraged to participate and bring their friends and family along.
The cleanups take place on Saturdays and begin at 9:00 AM. Supplies, gloves, and water & coffee are provided. The full schedule for the cleanup events is below:
· April 13: Tiffin Ave. Underpass
· May 4: South Side – Starts at Churchwell Park
· May 18: Orlando Pace Park
· June 1: Jaycee Park – Starts at Wightman Wieber Pavilion
· June 15: Downtown Waterfront – Starts at Shelby Street Boat Launch
· July 6: AMVETS Ball Fields, Area Streets – Starts at AMVETS Ball Fields
· July 27: Lions Park
· August 3: Farwell Park/Cedar Point Drive – Starts at Farwell Park
· August 17: Huron Park/Greenhouse – Starts at Huron Park Splash Pad
· September 14: Central Park/Monroe St. – Starts at Central Park
· September 28: City Underpasses – Starts at Tiffin Ave. Underpass
· October 5: Pipe Creek
· October 26: South Side – Starts at Churchwell Park
Contact City Commissioner Dave Waddington with any questions at 419-271-4736 or dwaddington@cityofsandusky.com

BLOOD DRIVE
This April, during National Volunteer Month, the American Red Cross celebrates the thousands of blood and platelet donors who make our lifesaving mission possible each and every day. With no substitute for blood and no way to manufacture it, volunteer donors are essential for hospital patients in need of transfusions. It’s vital donors make and keep appointments to keep the blood supply as strong as possible this spring. As a thank-you, all who come to give April 9-28 will get a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice, plus be automatically entered for a chance to win one of two $7,000 gift cards. (Details available at RedCrossBlood.org/Spring.)

SPRING 2024 KNOX WORKPLACE WALKING CHALLENGE
The Get Healthy Knox County Coalition invites local businesses to participate in the annual friendly Knox County Workplace Walking Challenge that promotes the health benefits of walking to people of all abilities. This encourages team building through team-based goals and rewards. The four-week challenge begins on April 7 and ends on May 4. Have fun and win prizes! Participants track and submit weekly step counts. Weekly leaderboards are posted on the coalition’s Facebook page and website (gethealthyknox.com). Trophies go to the top teams and medals go to the top walkers in each activity level. Participants may also enter the Raffle Challenge by submitting “selfie” photos while walking to work or visiting their favorite local scenic site. Receive a raffle ticket for each photo to be entered into a prize drawing. The Get Healthy Knox County Coalition’s mission is to provide opportunities for Knox County residents to live active lifestyles. Membership consists of representatives from local businesses and organizations committed to making the healthy and easy choice for people of all ages and abilities. Interested in learning more? Attend an online informational session to learn about the walking challenge guidelines, raffle challenges, and to answer any question you may have on March 20 at 12 pm. Download the registration packet at gethealthyknox.com or email tbeha@knoxdd.com. For more information, contact Tami Ruhl, Creating Healthy Communities Program Coordinator at 740-392-2200 x 2274 or truhl@knoxhealth.com.

SANDUSKY CITY HALL ECLIPSE
In anticipation of the total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8th, 2024, Sandusky City Hall and other City buildings will be closing to the public at 12:00pm that afternoon. City staff will be reachable via phone and email throughout standard business hours. The City encourages residents to plan their City Hall-related activities and inquiries accordingly to avoid any inconvenience. City offices will resume normal operations and public access on Tuesday, April 9th.
City Services during the Eclipse:
Emergency Services: All emergency and essential services will remain operational. Residents should dial 911 for emergencies.
Non-Emergency Services: For non-emergency services and inquiries, residents are encouraged to use phone or email communications. A full staff directory is available at www.CityofSandusky.com/Directory
Online Services: Residents are also reminded that many of the City’s services are available online, providing a convenient option to conduct business with the city.
The City of Sandusky is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of both the community and its employees during the total solar eclipse. The City encourages everyone to experience the eclipse safely, using proper eclipse viewing glasses or other safe viewing methods. For more information about the City’s Eclipse-related public events, visit www.CityofSandusky.com/Eclipse

NORWALK PUBLIC LIBRARY
Norwalk Public Library presents StoryTime on April 4th, April 11th, April 18th, and April 25th from 10:00 am to 10:30 am for ages 0-5. Encourage a love of reading and learning as we introduce your little one to books, rhymes, and songs.

MILAN PUBLIC LIBRARY
Milan Public Library presents Preschool Story Time [ Children’s Services ] on Fridays April 5, 12, 19, 26 from 10:30am-11am. Listen to stories, sing, dance and make a craft. Children ages 2-5.

AMHERST HISTORICAL SOCIETY
The Amherst Historical Society is offering four $1,500 scholarships for Lorain County students that help impact the community!
– Two $1,500 scholarships are for trade school, trade programs, or certifications
– Two $1,500 scholarships are for college:
      -One is for a First Year College Scholarship
      -One is for a 2nd Year+ College Scholarship
The deadline for applications for the scholarship is Friday, April 12, 2024, by 4 pm. The scholarship application is available on our website https://amhersthistoricalsociety.org/scholarship/ , can be picked up at our office, or emailed to anyone who is interested. Please reach out to us with any questions to Amherst Historical Society, 113 South Lake Street, Amherst, Ohio 44001; by calling 440-988-7255; or by email to office@amhersthistoricalsociety.org

CITY OF SANDUSKY ANNOUNCES 2024 YARD WASTE PROGRAM
The City of Sandusky’s 2024 Yard Waste Program, provided by Republic Waste Services of Sandusky, begins April 1 and runs through December 31. This is an optional service offered to city residents. If residents were signed up for the service in 2023, they will automatically be enrolled in the 2024 program. If a resident would like to discontinue service, they can contact the Customer Accounting Office at (419) 627-5893. Applications for new customers are available at www.CityofSandusky.com/YardWaste. Residents can also sign up at the Customer Accounting Office at City Hall, 240 Columbus Ave, Sandusky, OH, Monday through Friday 7:00am to 5:00pm or call (419) 627-5893. The cost for the program is $16.40 per month, or $147.60 for the whole year, which is assessed to the customer’s water/sewer bill during the time of the service. Customers can choose to pay for the service monthly or once for the whole year. Yard waste is picked up on Friday of each week.

BERLIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
Berlin Public Library presents Twist & Shout [ Children’s Services ] on Mondays April 1, 15, 22, 29 from 10:30-11AM. Dance, sing, and play instruments with your friends at the library! This program is intended for children under 5 and their caregivers.

MILAN PUBLIC LIBRARY
Milan Public Library presents Stay & Play [ Children’s Services ] on Tuesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 from 10-10:45AM. In this program, we use music along with large- and small-motor movement to engage in a fun atmosphere that encourages care givers and children to foster early learning through play. This program will start with 10 to 15 minutes of songs, rhymes, and structured activities and then parents and caregivers are invited to stay and play. Ages 1-4.

BLOOD DRIVE
In recent weeks, the American Red Cross has seen a positive increase in blood and platelet donations, but steady appointments are vital this spring for patients relying on care all season long. Now through April 7, we’re teaming up with Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures to celebrate the epic new film, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, and thanking donors for rising together to give blood. All who come to give March 25-April 7 will get this exclusive Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire + Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. (Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/GXK.)

SANDUSKY LIBRARY
The Sandusky Library presents a Beanstack Earth Day Challenge from April 1-30. Join the challenge to earn virtual badges for completing activities. Register for this challenge on our Beanstack site at: sanduskylib.beanstack.org.

SOLAR ECLIPSE T-SHIRT SALE
The Milan Township Fire Department will be selling 2024 Solar Eclipse t-shirts to raise money for community events like Safety Town, Fire Prevention Week, smoke detector giveaways and more. The t-shirts are a Milan fire shirt showing the birthplace of Thomas Edison and the eclipse. Order shirts through the Milan Fire Department Facebook page and click on the link or call 419-577-3385.

2024 RUNDUSKY RACE SERIES
The City of Sandusky Recreation Department is proud to announce the winners in the 2023 RUNDUSKY Race Series Grand Prize package. Jess Saffran of Port Clinton and Sandy Bodi of Bay View each won entry to all nine participating races in 2024. The RUNDUSKY Race Series had more than 90 participants who participated in at least four of the nine races and qualified for a free hooded sweatshirt provided by Firelands Health System. More than 52 participants ran five or more of the nine races to qualify for the race package drawing and there were four participants that participated or volunteered at all nine events. The race series resulted in more than 300 registrations to Sandusky races with an average of 40 participants in each race. The average age-per-participant in the series was 45 years old. This year, the City of Sandusky’s Recreation Department and Firelands Health System are partnering with nine race events in the city to promote outdoor recreation for residents and visitors. Participation in the 2024 RUNDUSKY Race Series promotion is free, but participants must register for each race independently. Prices and registration availability depend on each race. Those who participate in four of the nine races will be given a RUNDUSKY Race Series hoodie. Each participant who finishes five, six, seven, eight, or all nine of the races will be entered into a drawing for a race package. The package will include free entry to participating RUNDUSKY races in 2025. The RUNDUSKY 2024 Race Series includes the following events:

Humane Society of Erie County 5k
Bait House Brewery, 223 Meigs St.
9 a.m. Saturday, April 6
Registration: www.runsignup.com/hsec5k
$25 supports the HSEC and includes a race shirt

Running Laps with Lions Walk/Run
Lions Park, 533 Winnebago St.
9 a.m. Sunday, May 5
Registration: www.runsignup.com/lapswithlions
$33 supports Sandusky Lions Club and includes t-shirt and finisher medal

All for Abs 5k Color Dash
Paper District Marina, 611 W. Shoreline Drive
9 a.m. Saturday, June 15
Registration: https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Sandusky/AllforAbs5k
$35 Supports the Abigail Bastien Scholarship Fund and includes t-shirt and finisher medal

Boy with the Boot 5k
Washington Park at the Boy with the Boot statue
8:30 a.m. Thursday, July 4
Registration: https://runsignup.com/bwtb
$28.00 includes dry-wick t-shirt and finisher medal

IRONMAN 70.3 Ohio
Jackson Street Pier
6:30 a.m. Sunday, July 21
Registration: https://www.ironman.com/im703-ohio-register

Rush to the Crush 5 Miler & Wine Sprint
Firelands Winery, 917 Bardshar Road
Time TBD Sunday, Aug. 18
Registration: COMING SOON

Drea 5k
NexXt Level Fit Academy
9 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 1
Registration: COMING SOON

Save your Pumpkins 5k,
Battery Park
9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5
Registration: COMING SOON

The Race before the Game
Cameo Pizza at Central Park
9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 30
Registration: www.runsignup.com/RBTG
Participation in the promotion is FREE and anyone interested can download a RUNDUSKY entry card at www.cityofsandusky.com/recreation For questions contact Sandusky Recreation 419.627.5833 or jwerling@cityofsandusky.com. Follow www.facebook.com/SanduskyRec and X @SanduskyRec for updates.

TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE WEEKEND
Destination Seneca County has announced their major events planned for the Total Solar Eclipse Weekend that will take place starting Friday, April 5, 2024. The weekend will consist of a Solar Eclipse of the Heart Bingo contest, Out of the Dark Glow 5K & Fun Run sponsored by Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital, and Elope at the Eclipse, along with other community activities. Solar Eclipse of the Heart Bingo will begin on Friday, April 5 and will last through Tuesday, April 9. The bingo game will allow community members and visitors to support local businesses listed in the 2024 Seneca County Community Guide. Bingo cards can be found on the www.SenecaCountySolarEclipse.com website and are available to download and print or can be picked up at the Destination Seneca County Welcome Center, located at 96 South Washington Street in downtown Tiffin. Once they have completed their bingo cards, they will submit a picture of their completed card to www.DestinationSenecaCounty.org/EclipseBingo. The Out of the Dark Glow 5K & Fun Run sponsored by Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital, will take place on Saturday, April 6, at 7:30 PM. Participants will embark on a journey through scenic routes as they run or walk, symbolizing emerging from darkness into the light. As dusk descends, participants will be adorned with vibrant glow accessories, transforming the night into a luminous spectacle. Runners can sign up online at www.5KEclipse.com through March 25 for $30. Check-in will begin the night of the race at 6 PM and will last until 7:15 PM at the Tiffin Community YMCA, 180 Summit Street. Every walker and runner will receive a collectible medal, solar eclipse glasses, a glow stick, and after race snack. All proceeds from the race will support the Tiffin Community YMCA’s backpack food program that supports students in the Tiffin community. The Elope at the Eclipse event will take place at the Frost Kalnow Amphitheater, 155 East Market Street in Tiffin, on Monday, April 8, 2024. This unique event offers couples an opportunity to celebrate their love in a magical setting with the beauty of the Eclipse as a backdrop. Destination Seneca County will provide an unforgettable experience, taking care of essential elements to make the day truly special. Seneca County Common Pleas Court Judge Damon Alt will officiate the wedding, No Eileen will provide live music for the first dance from the support of Downtown Tiffin, and Destination Seneca County will provide the beverages for the first toast, a photographer to capture the day, and a personalized wedding cake. The event is free for couples and guests. Couples must bring a valid marriage license to the event. Couples that are looking to reaffirm their commitment can also register and do not have to bring any documentation. For additional information about Elope at the Eclipse, how to register, and how to obtain a marriage license for the ceremony, visit www.2024Elope.com. For all information pertaining to the 2024 Solar Eclipse in Seneca County, visit www.SenecaCountySolarEclipse.com.

FREEDOM’S ECHO: SANDUSKY’S UNDERGROUND RAILROAD LEGACY
In the lead up to America’s 250th anniversary, the City of Sandusky announced today it received a Buckeye Impact Grant from the America 250-Ohio Commission for its upcoming project titled, “Freedom’s Echo: Sandusky’s Underground Railroad Legacy.” This project will focus on the city’s role in the Underground Railroad, blending historical preservation and modern technology to offer an immersive experience. It will feature interactive exhibits, enhanced guided walking tours with QR code-accessible audio narratives, and a showcase of historical sites, aiming to preserve and celebrate Sandusky’s contribution to the fight for freedom and equality. The Buckeye Impact Grants offer up to $50,000 for projects with a statewide, regional, or significant local impact. These projects may include significant exhibitions, regional commemorative activities, substantial digital and documentary media projects and signature public events. The City of Sandusky was one of the 23 recipients chosen from the more than 70 statewide applications during the grant program’s fall 2023 funding cycle. The America 250-Ohio Commission grants program will work with Ohio Humanities to distribute $1 million in grants by June 30, 2024, and it is designed to showcase the achievements, struggles, honors, innovations and significance of all people in Ohio since before its founding to the present day. Themes identified for Ohio’s commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary programming include:
● Celebrations and Signature Events: Impacting tourism and economic development
● Ohio Originals: Highlighting points of pride and unity
● Engaging Youth and Lifelong Learners: Education and scholarship
● Inclusive Statewide Engagement: Museums, arts and culture
● Telling Ohio Stories: Highlighting stories of Ohioans past and present

The winter 2024 funding cycle is now open with applications due March 15, 2024. During this round, the America 250-Ohio Commission will award approximately $600,000 in grant funding. The period of performance for winter 2024 recipients will be June 15, 2024 through May 31, 2025. Eligible parties must be non-profits registered within the State of Ohio, educational, and local governmental organizations located in Ohio. Individual artists, authors, or performers must apply through a non-profit fiscal agent/sponsor. For more information on eligibility, project guidance and information on applying for a grant, visit America250-Ohio.org/grants/. To learn more about the America 250-Ohio Commission’s grants program visit America250-Ohio.org/grants/.

SANDUSKY LIBRARY
The Sandusky Library presents Writers Unite every Wednesday at 5pm from January 17th-April 24th. Are you a writer in need of a little inspiration or maybe just dedicated time to work on your latest project each week? Writers Unite is a supportive community for peer writers of all levels. Bring your laptop or pen and paper and be ready to create.

SANDUSKY LIBRARY
The Sandusky Library presents Tween Tuesday on Tuesdays at 3pm. Drop in anytime between 3 and 4 to participate in a game, STEAM-building, food, or craft-themed activity.

OBERLIN’S ARTIST RECITAL SERIES
Subscriptions to the 2023-24 Artist Recital Series are available to the general public beginning July 15, with full-season and Pick 3 packages both offering significant savings over individual ticket prices. Get tickets for all six Artist Recital Series for just $180—a savings of $5 per ticket. Seniors age 55 and older, members of the military, and Oberlin staff and alumni pay just $150, and students pay only $48. Pick 3 packages allow you to select any three concerts on the Artist Recital Series (pending availability) and save $5 off the regular price of each ticket. Single tickets for individual concerts will be on sale. New this season—and only for Oberlin College and Conservatory students with valid OCID—Artist Recital Series single tickets will be free and distributed as long as supplies last on a first come, first served basis. This is made possible through the generosity of Oberlin alumni donors Richard ’62 and Linda ’62 Clark. Subscription packages are available now online. Patrons may reserve tickets by calling 800-371-0178 or visiting at the Eric Baker Nord Performing Arts Annex (67 N. Main Street) from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

COMMUNITY FLU SHOT CLINIC
Starting Friday, September 29th, Knox Public Health will be kicking off this year’s Community Flu Shot Clinics. Flu shots are free with most insurance plans, otherwise the cost of the flu shot is $35 which can be paid by cash or check. More convenient times can be scheduled with the Health Center if unable to attend the currently scheduled clinics. With this schedule, Knox Public Health will be happily serving the community all throughout the county; from Centerburg and Mount Vernon to Martinsburg and Danville. Call 740-392-2200 for any and all questions. For the full Community Flu Shot Clinic schedule, see below.

NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS
You are not alone. NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) of Erie county is holding a free family support group. It is designed for family members of someone with mental health conditions. This event will take place every third Thursday of the month at 6pm. It is held at 138 East Market Street in Sandusky, Ohio.

SCHOOL OF NURSING ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
Firelands Regional Medical Center School of Nursing is accepting applications. The enrollment process for Firelands Regional Medical Center School of Nursing is now open for the 2024-2025 school year. The school offers students the opportunity to pursue a registered nurse (RN) diploma or transition from a licensed practical nurse (LPN) to an RN. Students will also earn college credit through a partnership with Bowling Green State University (BGSU) Firelands College. Graduates can join the workforce in as little as two to three years, compared to a four-year degree, and can seamlessly transition to a bachelor-prepared nurse after one year of RN to BSN coursework with our partners at BGSU. Apply at firelands.com/schoolofnursing. Contact the school with questions or inquiries by calling 419-557-7110 or emailing schoolofnursing@firelands.com.

WOMEN’S CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
Knox Community Hospital is proud to begin offering a Women’s Cancer Support Group to women of Knox and surrounding counties. The Center for Cancer Care at KCH is hosting this new support group on the second Wednesday of each month, starting July 12th, from 3:00 to 4:00 pm in the Wright Family Medical Pavilion, 2nd-floor meeting room. There is no cost to attend. A support group is a gathering of people facing common issues to share what is troubling them. Through the sharing of experiences, they are able to offer support, encouragement, and comfort to the other group members and receive the same in return. Meeting topics could include managing life challenges, stressors, financial concerns, what to expect during their cancer treatment, and more. It is encouraged that topic ideas are brought to the first meeting on July 12th. Join KCH for their kick-off of the Women’s Cancer Support Group! RSVP by calling 740.393.5551 or sign up online.

HURON COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY
The Huron County Humane Society will host Bingo the first Wednesday of each month at the Norwalk Eagles 711 Hall on 151 Cline Street in Norwalk. Doors open at 4:30pm, Early Bird begins at 5:30pm, and Regular Bingo happens at 6pm. Please wear a mask if you are not vaccinated. This event is open to the public, but you must be at least 18 years old. Stop by for your chance to win cash prizes!