Area Office on Aging, YMCA and Zablocki Senior Center Honored for Community Partnership
The Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio, YMCA of Greater Toledo and Chester J. Zablocki Senior Center received the Outstanding Community Partnership Award at the Ohio Association of Area Agencies on Aging (O4A) Annual Conference, recognizing their continued commitment to older adults. Now operating within the new Wayman Palmer YMCA, members enjoy expanded wellness opportunities and participation has doubled since moving to the new location.
Ohio State Parks Named Best in the Nation
Ohio’s State Parks system has earned top national honors, as the best in the country by the American Academy for Parks and Recreation and the National Recreation and Park Association. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources received the 2025 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, recognizing the state’s commitment to conservation, innovation, fiscal responsibility and community engagement.
Mercy Health to Open New Toledo Transplant Center
Mercy Health plans to open the Mercy Health – Toledo Transplant Center at St. Vincent Medical Center, marking a major expansion of specialized transplant services in northwest Ohio. The Center will initially focus on kidney transplants, strengthening the region’s capacity for life-saving treatment and reinforcing Mercy Health’s 170-year Toledo legacy of compassionate, innovative care.
Toledo Law Celebrates Exceptional Bar Exam Success
The University of Toledo College of Law grads achieved the second highest passing rate in Ohio for first-time bar exam takers. An impressive 86% of UT graduates passed on their first attempt—outperforming the state average of 80% and marking the school’s highest rate in six years. Toledo Law continues to equip graduates for professional success and strengthen its reputation in legal education.
University of Toledo Receives Federal Alzheimer’s Research Grant
Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur announced a $387,549 award from the National Institute on Aging to the University of Toledo for research on L-Rha derivatives and their potential to slow Alzheimer’s disease in a project which runs through August 2027. Kaptur praised the university’s innovative work and the need for continuing research as Alzheimer’s affects over six million Americans.
Timber, Metroparks’ Working Dog, Awarded Treat Award
One of the highest honors for service and working animals is a Treat Award. The Award, presented by the National College of Probate Judges, recognizes animals whose contributions are exceptional and enduring, celebrating those who have made a significant impact in supporting law enforcement, public safety or community service. Timber is a 1.5 year old golden retriever that accompanies Toledo Metroparks Ranger Michael Makras on patrol.
H.O.O.V.E.S. Sanctuary Celebrates Major Facility Upgrades
H.O.O.V.E.S. (Healing Of Our Veterans Equine Services) has completed significant facility upgrades at its Sanctuary and Healing Center in Swanton, enhancing accessibility, safety and comfort for veterans and their families. With generous support from Window World and the Ohio Contractors Association, the Sanctuary now features energy-efficient windows, a newly paved parking lot and refreshed landscaping, benefitting H.O.O.V.E.S.’ community programs.
Black Swamp Bird Observatory Honors Dedicated Volunteers
Black Swamp Bird Observatory (BSBO) celebrated Volunteer Appreciation Day in September, recognizing the volunteer contributions of (pictured L-R) Paul Owens of London and Nancy Howell of Cleveland, for their outstanding service. The BSBO Conservation Service Award went to Vicki Rae Harder-Thorne of Earth Heart Farms in Oak Harbor, for bird conservation. BSBO’s volunteer opportunities range from helping at festivals and education programs to assisting with conservation research. Email staff@bsbo.org or call 419-898-4070.
