The “Access to Capital” Lunch and Learn will be held Thursday, May 15, at the Rhodes State Borra Center in Lima Town Square. The event begins at 11 a.m. and is free to attend, though registration is requested by email at charitie.toland@yourstatebank.com.

The students, participating in a unique economics class project now in its seventh year, were challenged to evaluate available spaces in downtown properties and pitch innovative redevelopment ideas. Modeled after the approach taken by business owners and municipalities, the students develop detailed proposals and presentations to showcase their visions.

In recent years, the percentage of women in the construction industry has risen from just over 10% to 14% of the workforce, according to the National Association of Women in Construction. The organization emphasizes the importance of recognizing these women for their contributions to the field.

The coordinator of the Ohio Lights Out program, part of the Ohio Bird Conservation Initiative, spoke at this morning’s Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce Wake, Rattle, and Roll breakfast.