December Findlay Area Family

FREE December 2013

ay holid hullabaloo 2013

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Celebrate the holidays in the most festive ways!

The Holiday p14 to-do list Sorting between the "Dos and Don'ts" of the season

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Puppy love

How a Findlay teen is "healing hearts" Findlay families open their doors and give an inside look!

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• December 2013 • www.findlayfamily.com

departments 5 6 7 8 8 17 19

community snapshots what’s briefly happening new kids on the block exceptional families

Volume 2 • Issue 12 December 2013 www.findlayfamily.com

commentary

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LikeWise

A Mom’s Letter to Santa If Moms could write a list for the North Pole — by Pam Molnar

14 mother mayhem

The Holiday To-Do List

calendar

marketplace

14 diary of a dad

tween the lines

features

Yes, Virginia There is a Santa Claus and she needs a nap — by Mary Helen Darah

day holi hullabaloo 2013

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A Christmas to Remember

recycle this paper For our children's future ...

Truly appreciating Christmas and family — by Matthew Reger

15 family planet

Eliza, 8 Months Findlay

Let the Magic Begin Reflecting on the Most Magical Holiday Memories — by Rose Roccisano Barto

15 parent profile

Right-Hand Woman for

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Special Needs Children

Administrator of The Center for Autism and Dyslexia, Gail Lynn — by Jeff Berry

16 food fight

The Breakfast of Champions

Where you find what you want, when you want it — by

Our Apologies to Kate for omitting her photo credit in the last issue of Findlay Area Family.

Rose Roccisano Barto

Online exclusives Our December issue is full of "holiday happenings" to get your families ready for the season. Now, to prepare yourself for the hectic holiday schedule, check out "The Holiday Survival Kit" online, which features:

• Five Tips for a Peaceful Stepfamily Holiday • Gifts Money Can't Buy • "It's Not Fair!" How to Handle Holiday Rivalry • Holiday Gifts any Teacher will Love (Just Say No to Apple Ornaments!)

Log on for Weekly Giveaways

www.findlayfamily.com • December 2013 •

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Adams Street Publishing Co. What favorite Holiday Tradition are you looking forward to?

KIDS HOROSCOPE November 22December 21

By Sue Lovett

Sagittarian kids are always happy if they are given “space” to do their own thing. They are very curious and the most creative sign of the zodiac. They have super imaginations and are content to build, cut, paste and make some of their own cards and paper necklaces. Fascinated to hear about foreign countries, they may try to dig a hole to China in the back yard.

They love animals, especially horses, and seem to take on every challenge which can be difficult for parents to understand.

Parents should remember that they resent strict time limits. Try to give them a 15 minute warning when meals will be served, it is time to go to bed or clean up their area. Often the Sagittarian child will spin a globe to find places around the world. Learning a second language (even sign language) is fun as long as they do not have to sit still for any length of time.

They are extremely bright eyed, friendly and creative. Encourage them to make their own Christmas cards and gifts.

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) Spending a week with my out of state children.

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) The great gift from my wife.

Editorial

Assignment Editor: Nadine Akra (nadine@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Board Games WITH FAMILY. Calendar: Marisa Rubin (mrubin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Scrounging for coupons.

Social Media Specialist: Brandon Doriot (aspcmedia@gmail.com) I DRESS UP LIKE SANTA FOR COMFORT HEARTS CHARITY. Staff Writer: Griffin Messer-Kruse (griffin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) eating all the chirstmas cookies.

Contributing Writers: Mary Helen Darah, Sue Lovett, Russell Axom, Sarah Mayle, Nan Bauer, Rose Roccisano Barto, Matthew Reger

Art/Production

Art Director: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Shopping Graphic Design: Brittney Koehl (adsin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Bagels from Barry’s Bagel’s Megan Anderson (manderson@toledoparent.com) Christmas morning mimosas.

Jameson Staneluis (jameson@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Spending time with friends.

Kyle Iwanicki: (kyle@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Constant re-runs of DIE HARD I & II. Stephanie Revill: (production@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Eating COOKIES FRESH OUT OF THE OVEN.

Advertising Sales Manager: Aubrey Hornsby (ahornsby@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Food, drinks and family.

Sales Coordinator: Emily Gibb (classifieds@toledoparent.com) EATING GRAHAM CRACKER LOGS.

Administration

Accounting: Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) white elephant gift exchange!

Distribution: Michelle Flanagan (distribution@toledoparent.com) Putting up the Christmas Tree!

Publisher’s Assistant: Jan Thomas (jthomas@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Huge Italan Feast.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter: facebook.com/findlayfamily twitter.com/findlayfamily

Advertising/General Info: For advertising and general information, call (419) 244-9859 or fax (419) 244-9871. E-mail ads to adsin@findlayfamily.com Findlay Area Family subscriptions are available by mail for $28 per year at Findlay Area Family, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, OH 43604. Letters to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are subject to editing and should include the writer’s full name and phone number.

Entire contents © 2013 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

Also publishers of:

Audited by

Member

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• December 2013 • www.findlayfamily.com

Snaps

COMMUNITY ndlay

tasha, 5, Fi

., 1, and Na , Nicholas Jr

Natalia, 3

Destinee, 10, Alex,

6, and Christian, 8, Fin

Jillian, 7, and Ja

dlay Lainey, 10, and Jaxon, 7, Tiffin

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Go online to see more reader photos @ findlayfamily.com

Send us your photos!

Email with name, age & hometown to: production@ adamsstreetpublishing.com.

By sending photos, you give us permission to publish now, in the future or on our website and Facebook page.

Natalie, 3, Liberty Center

Ethan, 7, Levi, 5, Austin, 1, and Charlie, 3, Findlay

www.findlayfamily.com • December 2013 •

Caleb, 12, Kennadie, 9, Kendylle, 4, and Cooper, 2, Wayne

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what’s

briefly happening...

Compiled By Sarah Mayle

Another way to enjoy Christmas music

You’ll be astonished by the full-band sound of Rockapella, a stylish quintet coming to Findlay singing your favorite Christmas tunes. The Rockapella Christmas Show blends rock and a cappella to usher in the Christmas season. You’ll want to sing along! To get you in the mood, musical group Findlay First Edition will kick off the night.

Cheaper by the Dozen Performance

What if someone dreamed up the idea to take industrial efficiency techniques and apply them in the home? In the play, Cheaper by the Dozen, that’s just what one man enlists his family to do. Audiences are treated to scenes of his unconventional ideas taking shape in the home, as his willing but not-always-so-able family scrambles to follow. Somehow many of his schemes actually work! Join the Fort Findlay Playhouse for this comical classic based on the book by Frank Gilbreth and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey.

Fort Findlay Playhouse 300 W. Sandusky St. Sunday, December 8 from 5-8pm Saturday, December 14 from 8-11pm.

Tickets are $12/person. The production will be at the Fort Findlay Playhouse, 300 W. Sandusky St., Findlay. Purchase online by going to www.artspartnership.com, click on the Box Office tab, then Fort Findlay Playhouse.

“Magical” Christmas Train at the Mazza Museum Sunday, December 15, 5-7pm. Presale $25/ adults and $20/senior citizens. Tickets at the door $30. R.L. Heminger Auditorium at Findlay High School. Rockapella is a part of the Marathon Petroleum Corporation Performing Arts Series. To purchase tickets contact the Arts Partnership at 419-422-4624 or visit the website artspartnership.com.

The University of Findlay calls it “magical.” Children will have another opportunity to participate in enough activities to make parents’ heads start rolling. Storytelling, art stations, music, refreshments, shopping and family bonding will be available at the monthly event, Funday Sunday at the Mazza Museum. The hands-on activities take place on the first Sunday of every month from October to April, with changing themes each session.

December’s theme, “Christmas Train” will get your little ones, and perhaps you, into the holiday spirit at the start of the month.

Jump on the Christmas train early this year!

Sunday, December 1, 1:30-3:30 pm.

The Mazza Museum, 1000 N. Main St., Findlay. 419-434-4560. findlay.edu/offices/academic/mazzamuseum/Funday-Sunday. Free.

Second Annual Christmas Tree Gala

Treat yourself to an afternoon of holiday fun, all for a great cause, during Fox Run Manor’s Second Annual Christmas Tree Gala. During the gala, guests can participate in a silent auction to purchase beautifully decorated Christmas trees. The trees are donated by local community members and businesses, and this year’s money raised will go to City Mission in Findlay.

Patricia Sanchez, community coordinator for Fox Run, said last year there were 38 trees of all sizes ranging from very large to table top size. Decorations ranged from a very popular

Dietsch’s Ice Cream tree, complete with coupons and bags of chocolate pretzels tied with ribbons; to a small “Hot Wheels” tree decorated with toy cars; to a large tree decorated for the new year, complete with top hat tree topper and lots of sparkles. Guests can anticipate a visit from Santa during the gala, as well as crafts for kids, music and refreshments. Trees can be taken home after December 25. Last year’s event raised $6,367 for Hancock County Cancer Patient Services, Sanchez said.

Sunday, December 15 from 1:30-3:30pm. Prices to purchase vary depending on the tree.

The Gala will be held at Fox Run Manor, 11745 TR 145, Findlay. Trees can still be donated until Dec. 6. Call Sanchez at 419-424-0832 to make donation arrangements or with any questions.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter: facebook.com/findlayfamily twitter.com/findlayfamily

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• December 2013 • www.findlayfamily.com

Finding Treasure at Goodwill

By Sarah Mayle

At Goodwill’s grand opening in Fostoria, eager shoppers lined up to get a peek of the new store and to be the first to scan the aisles.

“The store opening was pretty tremendous,” said David Takats, director of fund development and marketing for Goodwill Industries of Northwest Ohio. “We had to open the doors a bit early because we didn’t want them standing outside too long.”

The new store, one of 13 in Northwest Ohio, opened Oct. 18. Takats said the 18,000 square foot store incorporates Goodwill’s new design, one crafted to make the shopping experience more upbeat and positive, with wider aisles, carpeting, easier shopping and dressing rooms. The store employs 15, mostly full-time workers now. Takats said more employees may be added, depending on sales.

Varied selection

Inside, shoppers will find “all kinds of clothing – children’s, men’s, women’s, coats, winter clothes, shoes, purses, anything to round out an outfit,” Takats said.

“We also have very cool artwork, toys, furniture, pots and pans, plates… It’s a great resource.”

Goodwill offers a diverse shopping experience and provides significant community services as well. The majority of Goodwill’s merchandise comes from

donations, which prevent millions of pounds of material from heading to landfills, Takats said.

“Wetakeproductsandcreatesomething new from what you were going to throw away,”Takatsexplained.“It’sabigaspectfor us. We don’t want anyone throwing hardly anything into a landfill. It’s exciting; to know your things are not going into a landfill, but rather to a much better cause.”

Additional benefits

Revenue generated by the store also stays in Northwest Ohio, funding assistance programs that help train and place individuals into jobs, either with Goodwill or in the community.

“We offer programs and services to help overcome barriers to employment,” Takats said. “Whether it is a person with physical or mental disabilities, wounded veterans, people who have been out of the workforce a long time or are welfare dependent – we help anyone who is having a real difficulty securing meaningful employment.”

It’s a win-win situation, Takats said, “You can find a new pair of jeans, pay five dollars, and the money you spend helps your neighbors to get job opportunities.”

This location will provide more “highend” merchandise than other locations, said Takats. Other retail Goodwill stores are located in Findlay, Tiffin, Toledo and Bowling Green.

www.findlayfamily.com • December 2013 •

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A Girl’s Best Friend

Myranda Klein shares her love of dogs

By Kay Matthias

Flashing pearly whites at Noah’s baptism

Taking a Different Approach to Tragedy Vangie Rodenbech sees that the grass is greener on the other side

By Nadine Akra

“Embracing struggle” is something that Vangie Rodenbech has encapsulated with Shaping Special Hearts. When her son, Noah, was diagnosed with being significantly developmentally delayed at three years old, doctors told her he would never read or communicate.

As a way to cope, she began full-time children’s special needs ministry. Born a natural researcher and reader, she devoted time to rewriting teacher’s lesson plans so that Noah could learn and participate in the classroom. After years of singlehandedly transforming education for her son, she began incorporating Standard special needs curriculums. In her attempt to provide these resources for other families, she launched Shaping Special Hearts, an online blog featuring radio sessions with ranging themes pertaining to special needs.

Her journey with Noah

“It’s really allowed me to share my journey with Noah,” Vangie said. “I had trouble finding people to tell me ‘Well here’s what’s going to be okay’, so I started blogging about it myself.”

Her radio show, in collaboration with CM Connect, is aimed toward helping people get access to not just resources, but relationships. She interviews parents, ministers and therapists, among others, to

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form a sense of community with special needs families.

She emphasizes that her situation, like other people’s, is based on perspective. “It’s like anything else. It’s all in your perspective. This doesn’t have to be devastating.” When special needs children concentrate on something over and over again, it’s called autism, she says. However, when a successful engineer concentrates on a project, it’s called focus. This is the notion she emphasizes and wants to change.

Don’t fear “otherness”

Vangie advises all parents to “grieve their idealized child” to make room for the one that they have and no longer fear “otherness”- but honor it. She finds holy in the commonplace, values everyday experiences, celebrates little victories. She promises that disabilities have made her a happier person.

Noah will be thirteen in January. He is reading, communicating and attending regular education science classes. “He’s come so much further than they expected.

And I think it’s because I was willing to honor where he was and willing to honor the way I would raise him differently.”

Shaping Special Hearts. Visit the blog, radio shows and connect with Vangie Rodenbech at www.vangierodenbech.com. See the Autism Gospel on the site for her vision on how to see the beauty in special needs.

Klein showing pride for her pooch, Duke Myranda Klein was just a little girl when she decided that she was going to share with others the love her dog gave to her.

Klein, now a 17-year-old Findlay High School senior, says she developed a desire to help others with the art of dog therapy, canines bringing joy to people, when she was a child sitting with her dog at home watching TV. “When I was little, I always watched Animal Planet and I just saw things with therapy dogs,” Klein said.

“I knew Duke, my dog, would be a great therapy dog. I also knew that if Michael Vicks’ pit bulls could be therapy dogs, so could my sweet lab.”

Training once a week

Klein began taking training classes two hours once a week when she was ten with Duke, who is now six years old. Klein recently became certified after taking training classes from Findlay’s Golden Collar School for Dogs with trainers Anne Moore and Judy Leister and passing dog therapy tests. She and Duke are now certified and registered with Therapy Dogs International. The team traveled to Findlay High School for their first official site visit in October.

Klein says that she and Duke make a good dog therapy team because they both are delivering a service that they have a passion for and they get back what they give.

“Duke really loves the attention and the visits are really just all about him and loving him so he really loves it and can’t wait to go to “work,” Klein said. “I love doing this because it really makes me happy to bring joy

• December 2013 • www.findlayfamily.com

to other people and give Duke a job he really enjoys.”

Klein describes herself as fun and outgoing with her favorite classes being vet science and algebra. She has a very busy schedule that includes a full day of classes and several extracurricular activities: cross country, crew chief for the Findlay First Edition Show Choir, and technical theater. Her evenings often run late at the school or on dog training nights when she also trains two other dogsDaisy and Zora, but she loves every minute of it. When she does have time to relax, she says you can probably find her hanging out with her best friends Chase Wagner and Beth Davila.

Bigger goals

Klein is hoping her work ethic, current activities and passion will lead to bigger future goals.

“I have been accepted to the University of Findlay and University of West Virginia’s pre-vet programs,” Klein said. “I want to have my own ranch with therapy dogs and horses for disabled children and also work at a vet clinic.”

For now, Klein is excited about the first of those goals being met –as she and Duke head out into the community to provide some tender loving care.

“I expect people to open up and come to life when Duke visits them,” Klein said. “I hope to see shy children reach out to him for comfort or senior citizens in nursing homes light up when a friendly dog shows them love.”

om’s m Letter to

Santa

Dear Santa, I can’t believe another year has gone by. Is it just me or are the years passing faster? I think I have been a pretty good mom this year. I have driven my kids to every social event, practice and friend’s house. My wallet has been an endless fountain of money for movies, frozen yogurt and senseless mall trips. I have clocked countless hours at soccer fields, basketball courts, softball diamonds and music auditoriums. With a little help from our friend, Google, I continue to help with homework in subjects I have long forgotten. Sure, I might have lost it a few times, but I live with teenagers, Santa. They are God’s version of the Elf on the Shelf -- sent down to keep us in check, but if left without supervision, they get into mischief.

I know you are busy, so I will be brief.

To start, I need a few things for the bathroom – a sink that repels toothpaste, a splash free mirror and a never ending roll of toilet paper. Changing the roll is just too complicated for my family. I’d like a copy of “The Busy Mom’s Exercise-Free Weight Loss Plan.” I heard it is hard to find, but hey, you are Santa. As a backup, I would be happy with a copy of “The Wine Diet” instead. Unlike other programs, I think I could really stick to this one.

Remember those electric bug zappers from years ago?

If they make one for dog hair, I will take two! I am having a hard time passing off the dust bunnies as our dog’s puppies.

If you have a time machine in storage at the North Pole, I would love the ability to send a letter to my younger self. I could save her hours of unnecessary worry about career choices, raising children and neighborhood drama. I think that’s what caused these “blond” highlights I keep finding in my hair.

If it isn’t too whole week free front seat, who it is to do the right?

much trouble, I would like to have a of arguments about who rides in the drank the last Gatorade and whose turn dishes. This is the season of miracles,

Lastly, I would be thrilled to serve a meal that no one complains about. I’ve given up asking for a meal that everyone eats together before 9:00pm. Our crazy schedule is something even Santa can’t fix.

Well Santa, I can hear my daughter beeping the car horn in the driveway. I have to start round two of my carpool. Travel safe. I’m sorry if the cookies are gone when you get here. The dogs eat anything left on the coffee table. Since I made them, it’s probably better that the dogs ate them anyway.

Love, Mom P.S. All I really want for Christmas is to see the magic of Christmas morning in my teenagers’ eyes.

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer based out of Illinois.

www.findlayfamily.com • December 2013 •

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holiday hullabaloo

SUNDAY, December 1

2013

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! To make sure you and your family enjoy the season, we’ve picked the best Chirstmas-themed events happening this month.

We hope these tidings bring you and your family great comfort and joy!

Harrison Smith Park

Upper’s Winter Fantasy of Lights

525 E. Wyandot Ave., Upper Sandusky • 419-294-3556 • uppersfantasyoflights.org For the 17th year, the park is transformed into a wonderful drive thru display of lights.

Through December 30. Monday-Thursday, 6-9:30pm;Friday-Sunday, 6-10pm. $5 requested donation.

Funday Sunday

“Christmas Train”

Mazza Museum, University of Findlay 419-434-4777 • www.mazza.findlay.edu The Cherubic Choir will enhance the weekly Funday Sunday with a special holiday theme. 1:30-3:30pm. Free.

Friday, December 6

Ongoing Santa’s House & Winterfest Dorney Plaza, Downtown Findlay • findlaykiwanis.org

Get into the spirit of the holiday season by coming to Downtown Findlay to shop, eat and enjoy horse drawn wagon rides, a petting zoo and more.

Visit Santa’s house at City Hall. Now through December 20. 6-8pm.

North Pole Express

Sauder Village

Holiday Lantern Tours

22611 St. Rt. 2, Archbold • 800-590-9755• saudervillage.org The flicker of a candle will light the way as a costumed guide invites small groups on a journey to meet historical characters in various locations. Guests will experience the holiday customs and celebrations of the 1900s. Additional tours take place December 7, 13 & 14. Pre-registration/payment is required.

Tours last approximately 90 minutes and are repeated every half hour from 4-8:30pm. $12 non-member adults / $7 kids 3 & up.

Christmas in Carey

Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation, Inc.

Downtown Carey • 419-396-7856 The Carey Area Chamber of Commerce presents this holiday celebration with old fashioned horse and carriage rides, area musical groups, children’s crafts, lighting of the Christmas tree at the gazebo and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus. 5-8pm.

11600 County Rd. 99, Findlay • 419-423-2995 • nworrp.org

Bring your whole family for an exhilarating quarter-scale train ride as the steam engine chugs its way around the track through a magical winter wonderland of sparkling holiday lights and festive decorations. Every weekend through December 29: Fridays, 6-9pm; Saturdays, 5-9pm; Sundays, 5-8pm. $1 kids 12 & under / $2 adults (price includes one train ride ticket).

Toledo Zoo

The Lights Before Christmas

Freed Center

Holiday Spectacular

Crouse Performance Hall Veteran’s Memorial Civic & Convention Center

2 Hippo Way • 419-385-4040 • toledozoo.org

Thousands of lights illuminate the walkways and the animals, creating a unique experience for zoo-goers. Look for other special events throughout the month, like ice carving demos, a visit from the Toledo Walleye hockey team, a Santa Paws gift shop, and more. Zoo-goers can experience the lights every day of December (except 24 & 25): Sundays through Thursdays, 3-8pm; Fridays & Saturdays, 3-9pm. Free kids under 2 / $10 kids under 2-11 / $13 adults / $10 seniors 65 & up (discounts and packages available online).

Bass Pro Shop

Santa’s Wonderland

10000 Bass Pro Blvd., Rossford • 419-891-3900 • basspro.com

Kids will love the elaborate holiday decor and all the free activities and crafts that are offered. Through December 24. Monday-Friday, 5-7pm;VSaturdays & Sundays,12-5pm.

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• December 2013 • www.findlayfamily.com

7 Town Sq., Lima • 419-772-1900 • freedcenter.com Bring the family to Lima for the annual Holiday Spectacular featuring carols, dancing and Santa Claus! Friday & Saturday, 7:30pm; Saturday & Sunday, 2pm. $5.

Saturday, December 7

Saturday, December 14

Downtown YMCA Branc

McKinnis House by Candlelight

Parent’s Shopping Day Out 300 East Lincoln St. • 419-422-3174 • findlayymca.org

Go shopping for the kids while they have fun. The YMCA provides a movie, games, and pizza. 10am-2pm. $5 member / $10 non-member.

Spirit of

Upper Sandusky Parade Sandusky Ave., Upper Sandusky • 419-294-7037

The entire family will delight at the Upper Sandusky Christmas Parade at 5pm.

There will also be Story Time and Children’s Crafts at the Upper Sandusky Library prior to the parade starting at 10:30am.

Litzenberg McKinnis House 6100 U.S. Route • 224419-425-7275 • hancockparks.com Join the 1840’s McKinnis family on a candlelit tour of their historic house.

Visitors can also stroll the grounds to experience Christmas in the past, complimented by local choirs and musicians. $5 registration fee due by December 12. 6-9pm.

Wood County Historical Center & Museum Living Xmas Cards

13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green • 419-352-0967 • woodcountyhistory.org Four exhibit rooms come to life with interactive interpreters and family crafts from the Civil War era to a 1950s Soda Fountain. Also open December 15 & 19.

Saturday & Sunday, 1-4pm; and Thursday, 6-8pm.

27th Annual

Christmas Bazaar

Birchaven Village • 15100 Birchaven Lane • 419-423-5385 Come out and shop for one of a kind gifts for everyone on your Christmas list.

Items include homemade fudge, hand-crocheted doilies, tree ornaments and more.

Take pictures with Santa from 11am-1pm. 9am-4pm.

Sunday, December 8 Tales for Tots

Saturday, December 21 Findlay Hancock Public Library Elf School

206 Broadway St. • 419-422-1712 • findlay.lib.oh.us Train to be one of Santa’s little helpers!

Special guest Buddy the Elf will teach special elf skills with games and activities.

Open to grades K-4. Must register online by December 14. 10am-noon.

“The Arctic”

Mazza Museum, University of Findlay 419-434-4777 • www.mazza.findlay.edu The Mazza Museum will entertain children with this fun, holiday-themed story.

There will an optional sack lunch after storytime. 1:30pm. Free.

University of Findlay

Christmas Band Concert Van Buren High School 217 S. Main St., Van Buren • 419-434-5335 • findlay.edu The University of Findlay Christmas Band will perform all the yuletide classics during a spectacular show guaranteed to supply the holiday cheer. 8pm.

Tuesday, December 10 Findlay Hancock Public Library Visit with Santa

206 Broadway St. • 419-422-1712 • findlay.lib.oh.us Children are invited to bring their parents or caregivers to join a special guest for Christmas stories and songs. A great photo opportunity, too! 10:30-11:30am. Free.

www.findlayfamily.com • December 2013 •

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The

Washington Family

During Christmas, Marc Washington celebrates the birth of Jesus. For the week after, however, he celebrates part of his African-American heritage.

That’s because Washington, the father of three grown children, began incorporating Kwanzaa into his family’s holiday observances many years ago.

In addition to the lights, gifts and religious services of Christmas, Washington and his family also observe the seven principles of Kwanzaa.

New Traditions

F

indlay families may celebrate different holidays at different times and in different ways. Yet, as the families profiled on these pages demonstrate, we all share something in common.

Our loved ones and spending time together are at the heart of our diverse celebrations.

“We’ve always had an interest in our culture and after we’d done it for several years word had gotten around and we started doing some presentations in the area,” says Washington, who credits his wife for making it part of the family’s tradition.

Kwanzaa is a weeklong celebration that starts December 26. It was begun in 1966 as a way for African-Americans to celebrate themselves and their history. Each of the seven days of Kwanzaa focuses on a positive principle for meditation and celebration: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. “We would think about people in our family who demonstrated the different disciplines. Each night a different principle was explained – who do we know who represents those qualities and what does that mean?” he says.

“Hopefully it gives some inspiration to kids so they might strive to find those qualities in themselves.”

Part of Kwanzaa is the exchanging of gifts, but the gifts are, ideally, handmade such as bookmarks, scarves or other items.

By Rose Roccisano Barto

Gifts and Symbols

Part of Washington’s decorations have included the kinara, a candelabra with seven candles, that is lit each night. Washington, a deacon at Bethel Baptist Church in Fostoria, says Kwanzaa is not a substitute for Christmas but rather an addition to it.

“Some might say it’s a black thing or a separatist thing, but it’s not that,” he says. “It’s built around the belief that you’ll get far with hard work and dedication and that’s for everybody.”

Sara, Jihad, Mohammad, Kirstie, Rauda, Noor and Nabeel celebrate being together

The

Shaheen Family

When Jihad Shaheen’s children were young, the Christmas season was another chance to explain some of the traditions of their Muslim faith. As Muslims, they do not eat pork or drink alcohol. They abide by the Five Pillars, or rules, of Islam that include acknowledging that there is only one Allah (God), prayer, fasting and giving to charity or the poor and performing the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.

They observe two main religious holidays, neither of which is Christmas. “We bring them up according to Islamic traditions and hopefully it sinks in,” says Shaheen, whose children with his wife Rauda range in age from 13 to 24. “We don’t celebrate Christm as but I don’t stop my kids from learning about it.”

Their Holiday Celebrations

The family celebrates Eid ul Fitr, which comes at the end of the monthlong fasting of Ramadan. Ramadan uses fasting and self-sacrifice to bring Muslim s closer to their faith, and is observed according to the lunar calendar. This year Ramada n began July 8.

The Shaheens went to his mother’s house to joyfully break their fast, visit with family and share a celebratory meal. The other major Muslim holiday is Eid ul Adha, which marks the end of the Hajj. In 2007 and 2008 this holiday, also set by the lunar calendar, fell in December. The Shaheens respect their friends’ and neighbo rs’ celebration of Christmas, and don’t stop their children from going to Christm as parties, or singing Christmas songs at a concert. They put up lights in the house and call them “eid,” or festival lights instead of Christmas lights, during their own celebrat ions. They do make clear, however, the distinction between respecting other people’ s traditions and observing their own. “When they were little they would ask about Santa and we would say Santa is not for us,” he says. Ultimately, Christmas Day will be spent at home or visiting family and friends. “For us, it’s just another day,” he says.

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• December 2013 • www.findlayfamily.com

The

Krummerer

Family

For the Kummerer family, Christmas is a time to make merry with family, enjoy the cozy comforts of home, give to others and - of course as Christians - be thankful for the birth of Jesus.

“We love being with family and being able to celebrate religion with other people in a heightened way,” Natalie Kummerer said. “…I love that during (the Christmas season) everyone is more focused on the important things in life versus all of the things you just need to do to make it.”

Favorite Christmas activities

Natalie and Andy Kummerer, parishioners at St. Michael the Archangel Parish, have lived in Findlay for two years with their children, Urban, 5, and Luci, 3. Gratitude for the birth of Jesus and his sacrifices are the driving force behind their Christmas traditions.

Favorite activities through the season include picking up Giving Tree requests to help others less fortunate, volunteering, enjoying the Christmas lights at the Toledo Zoo, visiting Santa at Marathon, picking out and decorating their live Christmas tree, celebrating with an Advent calendar and Advent wreath, going to Christmas Eve Mass, and spending time with family - often involving a delicious, homecooked meal.

Celebrating the birth of Jesus

“One of my favorite traditions at my parents’ house is that my dad will set up the Nativity scene. He’ll try to really make the wise men coming from the east,” Andy said, laughing. “The baby Jesus isn’t in the scene until Christmas Eve. But on that night, we bless the tree with holy water, and the youngest child who can carry Jesus gets to put Him in the scene.”

In an effort to keep the focus on Christ and family, Santa visits the Kummerer house, but only leaves gifts in the family stockings. Santa follows up at the grandparents’ houses with more gifts.

“I love going to mass Christmas Eve,” Andy said. “It just sets the tone for the whole weekend of family time. It’s just fun – and even more with the kids, the excitement.”

The

Hendel

Family

Ashley and Peter Hendel celebrate a holiday near this time of year that involves family, food, decorations and gift-giving. But the holiday their family celebrates, Hanukkah, is far from a Jewish version of Christmas. It is an eight-day observation that commemorates the miracle of one day’s ration of lamp oil lasting for eight days during the rededication of the Temple in 165 B.C. “I think people just assume it’s Christmas time so everyone around here celebrates Christmas,” says Ashley Hendel.

Holidays and Jewish History

“Some people aren’t quite sure what Hanukkah is and why it’s a celebration.” It is not the most important religious holiday for Jews – that is reserved for the Jewish New Year observation of Rosh Hashanah and the Day of Atonement on Yom Kippur. But thanks to its proximity to Christmas, Hanukkah is often mistakenly linked with the Christian observance. As one of a handful of Jewish families in Findlay, the Hendels have raised their children to be proud of their history. Ashley would often give talks in the Liberty Benton school system about Hanukkah and other observances. “By the time I left, all the kids would be singing Hanukkah songs,” she says. “My children never felt like outcasts. They are very proud of their heritage.”

Rituals Observed

Nathan, 16, is now a sophomore at LB and Lexi, a 13 year old seventh grader, recently observed her bat mitzvah – a coming of age ritual – at Congregation B’Nai Israel in Sylvania. While Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are more solemn observations, Hanukkah is a time for merriment, games and gifts to commemorate the eight day miracle. Each night the family lights a candle on their menorah, a special candle holder, and says blessings and opens gifts. The children good-naturedly jockey for turns in lighting the

candles. The gifts can range from large to small, and there is a certain amount of box-shaking and guessing before opening. As her children got older, Hendel incorporated some holiday decorations into the family celebration. One might see a Star of David ornament displayed, or some dreidels (small tops for playing a traditional Hanukkah game) and snowmen. Any Christmas cards she gets are hung up alongside Happy Hanukkah cards. Christmas isn’t necessarily forbidden in the Hendel house – after all, many family friends observe it. It just isn’t something they celebrate themselves. On December 25, when much of Findlay will be opening presents, the Hendels will indulge in their own Christmas ritual – going to the movies.

www.findlayfamily.com • December 2013 •

13

The Holiday To-Do List

Yes, Virginia there is a Santa Claus and she needs a nap By Mary Helen Darah My dear friend sent me a holiday checklist to help get me organized for the holiday season. Mind you, the first thing I write on a to-do list is, “Find where you put other to-do list,” but I decided to humor her and read it anyway.

that hangs over my pants. Either way, I do not have the time or inclination to worry about that with all the other items on the list. I think I am going to rely on dressing in dark colors, adding a colorful scarf for interest and to keep the focus upward (plus a great way to hide the second chin) and my trusty Spanx, or as my mother refers to them, “hold ‘em ins”. n Prepare and mail holiday cards I usually have this one covered although last year, we ended up sending “Happy Ground Hog Day” greetings due to our tardiness. We go all out. One year we even wrapped ourselves in gift wrap. I let the girls come up with ideas, within reason, for the holiday family photo, as long as it doesn’t include trying to put a decorative bow on a Corgi with an attitude.

Give specific duties for holiday party preparation Ok this is doable. Every December I make a lamb, ham and enough carbs and sweets to make your cholesterol and triglycerides beg for mercy. We call it the “Whoo Feast” because at the end of this special night, my daughter once asked, “Don’t you just want to hold hands and sing “ya hoo ya hoo” like in the Grinch movie?” The day before is the prep party. My Dad likes any job that will make noise. My Mom, although not a fan of cooking, is a heck of a slicer and dicer. I rely on my neighbor Gail for backup appliance needs as long as I keep my ham away from her kosher oven. One thing that may be a tad challenging, is finding a meat carver. Annually, the job falls upon my date for the evening. 2013 was not a banner year in that department. Note to self: buy electric knife. n

n Make

a holiday budget I am a cancer survivor with lingering medical bills and a journalist with five people and an aging Corgi under my roof. If I were forced to write down how much money flies out of my coffers this time of year, I would not be in the holiday spirit; I would get into holiday spiritsespecially the spiced eggnog. NEXT

Exercise and eat healthy so you can indulge in a few treats I constantly see my friends on Facebook describing what they have stretched to the limit to fit into their holiday attire. I’m not certain what or more specifically where, my oblique muscle is. I think it’s the part of my stomach n

Wrap presents in different papers to distinguish recipients There are women whose wrapping talents are legendary. These women most likely remove the same amount of socks from the dryer that they put in and hand in permission slips the day after receiving them. I am not one of these creatures. My family knows that on Christmas morning it might be a bumpy ride. I sometimes forget to remove last year’s name labels from recycled gift bags and paper before slapping on a new one causing a bit of confusion. I get it honestly. We have opened presents from my parents only to have them say, “Oh no! That’s not for you,” or “Wait that’s part two of three. You have to open present “one” first.” Of course, they are clueless as to where the other parts of the themed gifts are, but it keeps things interesting.

n

Condense the list I kept reading her list and when I got to “bake cookies months ahead of time, pull out of freezer to frost for a no-fuss holiday” I stopped. First, part of the fun is seeing if Noni’s rolled out cookies will look more like “rein dogs” than deer. Secondly, I secretly enjoy the frosting wars with sprinkles everywhere-although they’re a bear to get out of dog fur. A suggestion: Put two items on your list.

1. Do the best you can do 2. After #1, relax and let it go. Spend less time trying to make “perfect” and enjoy the perfect times with your family and friends. Happy Holidays!

n

A Christmas to Remember

Truly appreciating Christmas and family By Matthew Reger As parents we invest so much in each Christmas, hoping that it will be memorable for our kids. Many times we fall short because we pin that memory to certain gifts received rather than more important things that are often overlooked.

My favorite Christmas memory - my first as a parent – will be remembered by my kids for years to come simply because of my regular retelling of the story.

In the fall of 2006, we moved overseas to the former Soviet Union country of Georgia. We had moved on my whim to become a volunteer for one year with the American Bar Association’s Rule of Law Initiative.

Through the program I trained attorneys and judges participating in the creation of a new criminal procedure code. In short I was in a program that has been likened to a “Peace Corps” for attorneys.

in a developed country with amenities that we certainly appreciated. Even though Vienna offered great luxury, our accommodations were a modest bed and breakfast.

Like everything about our overseas adventure, Christmas in Vienna was far outside my comfort zone. My Christmas experiences had been the same my entire life. We always had a gathering at my grandparents on Christmas Eve with my mom’s family. It began with a large meal and ended with piles of wrapping paper, ribbon, boxes and toys spread everywhere. Even marriage had not significantly changed this tradition. But this year – our first with a grandchild for my parents – we were thousands of miles away all by ourselves.

Moving On

On Christmas Eve the three of us sat in a small restaurant ordering a traditional Austrian meal of sausage and schnitzel. After dinner we walked to an evening church service while snow lightly fell, melting on our heads. Following two services and some nodding off on my part, we walked home pushing our stroller through the accumulated snow.

The next morning we awoke and said Merry Christmas with no packages, no wrapping paper, and no frustration. It was simple, beautiful and filled with love.

But family in America was still without us. Because I knew how they felt about Christmas I had set a plan in

My wife was amazingly indulgent in agreeing to this move. I provided her with full information including the fact that the recent history of this country had been three wars, a revolution and an ongoing border dispute with Russia that was on the verge of breaking out in war. With this full disclosure—I may not have been too clear about the Russian threat—our family, including a 6 month old, moved to the Caucus Mountains.

After three months in this developing country, the trip to Vienna for Christmas was a welcome respite.

When we landed it was immediately clear that we were 14

A Different Kind of Christmas

• December 2013 • www.findlayfamily.com

A magical Christmas in the

Republic of Georgia

place before leaving the United States. A friend of mine had family near my parents and I arranged to have presents I ordered sent to him, which he then delivered to my parents. On December 24, while we were walking through the snowy streets of Vienna, he stood at my parents’ door in a Santa hat, arms full of presents.

The look on the faces of my family was something my friend still remembers. They were stunned, excited and mystified all at the same time. When we called them in the early morning hours, the happiness through the phone line was infectious.

That Christmas is a great memory for me because I discovered how true it is that giving is better than receiving. The joy my parents had in their delivery was exceeded only by the happiness we had in giving them and spending Christmas simply, basking in the love of family.

Let the Magic Begin

Reflecting on the most magical holiday memories

By Rose Rocciano Barto

Right-Hand Woman for Special Needs Children

Administrator of The Center for Autism and Dyslexia, Gail Lynn

By Jeff Berry Four-year-old Rose telling Santa her Christmas list

I had the best Christmas ever when I was about four years old.

I woke up, as kids usually do, before anyone else. I then woke up my older sister. We then woke up my older brother and parents. We had to wait until everyone was ready – an excruciating five minutes that felt like fifty - and walked together down the hallway to our front living room where our tree waited.

Hey, I got the chalkboard I wanted!

But wait. What were those white spots on our carpet, leading from the fireplace to the chalkboard and then into the kitchen?

They looked like snowy footprints – big ones. I followed those footprints into the kitchen, where on the counter sat chalk for my chalkboard.

Family lore says I was amazed that Santa had walked into my house to leave me a surprise, but he also was remiss about leaving footprints on the carpet.

As I think back on Christmas past, I will always remember that one. It was magical. And I can replay every moment in my mind to this day.

Making Christmas Special

Each year around this time, I wonder what I can do to make Christmas special for my own family. We all have our busy and stressful times, and unfortunately mine usually falls around Christmas.

Teachers can give projects that are due right after vacation. As a music minister in my church I’ve already been rehearsing Christmas music for weeks. And we parents know all about the shopping, wrapping, baking and preparing that needs to happen before December 25.

Still, I want to make room for the magic. When my children were younger, it was easier. We’d go downtown to see Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Municipal Building – and one time got our own Christmas miracle when no one cried in the traditional “sit on Santa’s lap” picture.

We’d put on Christmas music and jam to “Frosty the Snowman” while dressed in footie pajamas. And, somehow, a muchdesired toy that Mom and Dad repeatedly said “no” to purchasing, appeared under the tree courtesy of Santa.

Keeping Santa’s Secrets

My children are now 11 and 14.

School, karate, ballet and friends all compete with cocoa and snow angels.

Writing letters to Santa is now replaced by texting. And watching Christmas specials is no longer must-see TV. There are times, however, that I can still see the toddlers inside my kids. They love to decorate our glass doors with many window clings. Each year we get ornaments that reflect their interests that year, making decorating the tree a walk down memory lane. And the Little People manger set still gets some play, when they think no one is looking.

I didn’t learn the secret of Santa’s footprints until I was in my 20s – and, to be honest, part of me wishes I didn’t know. Once we learn some of the secrets, we are truly grownups. So this year I promise to make some Christmas magic for my children. The best secrets – and the best memories – sometimes require a little bit of magic.

With over 20 years of educational experience and a passion for bettering the lives of children, Gail Lynn, administrator of The Center for Autism and Dyslexia, maintains a sense of satisfaction in the service she performs on a daily basis.

“I just love working with children with special needs. I like to see growth, whether it’s academically or socially, and to make a difference in their lives,” Gail says. “There is nothing more rewarding than a child or adult with special needs accomplishing something that they have been working on.”

Finding Her Way

Gail began her education career after earning endorsements in Ohio and Michigan as an intervention specialist, a career that focuses on educating students with mild, moderate, and severe educational needs. Upon moving back to Findlay, after being away for 20 years, Gail was looking for a “good fit”, where her work could positively impact a child’s life. The Center for Autism and Dyslexia proved be that place. She spent two years teaching middle school and high school students at The Center before transitioning into the role of administrator.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy has been proven, by many studies, to be the most effective treatment for autism and is the foundation of The Center’s autism protocol.

Gail says early intervention and treatment is key for

children with autism. With The Center’s small class sizes, direct and/or smallgroup teaching, Gail leads the school in making a positive impact.

“A child that started with us a few years ago couldn’t speak. In a matter of a couple of years, he was able to speak and tell us what his wants and needs. He is now able to work on his academics. He was not able to do that before [joining The Center],” Gail says.

Passion for Helping

Gail is available “24/7” for her families, often answering their phone calls at home, sometimes as early as 6 am.

Typically, Gail helps parents talk their children into coming to a school event or finishing their homework.

Leigha Shoup, ABA Consultant/Education coordinator at The Center, works closely with Gail on a daily basis.“Gail is a very effective administrator and is one of the most qualified individuals that I have had the pleasure of working with,” Shoup said. “She works tirelessly to help parents with anything they need.

She loves and cares about each student at The Center and it shows every day through her work.”

The Center for Autism and Dyslexia has offices in Findlay and Lima.

For more information, visit: www.centerforautismanddyslexia.com or email the Findlay center at centerforautismanddyslexia@yahoo.com.

www.findlayfamily.com • December 2013 •

15

The Breakfast of Champions

Where you find what you want, when you want it

by Rose Roccisano Barto

South Side Family Restaurant

THE SHORT COURSE

050 South Main Street 419-422-7031 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday and Monday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The full menu is available all day except on Fridays, when breakfast ends at 3 p.m. in favor of the weekly fish fry.

What you want, when you want it.

Sometimes life works out that way, even if it’s being able to eat lunch in the morning and breakfast at night. It’s a small victory but we’ll take it, especially when it comes via a place like South Side Family Restaurant.

We have driven by this place dozens of times at 3050 South Main St. just north of Ohio 15. It’s a very low-key establishment, with only a small sign on the actual building to identify it. Walking through the doors was worth the trip, especially when your family can’t quite decide if it’s time for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Here, you can get all three at any time of day.

Menu with Variety We decided to try brunch on a Sunday, and the place was hopping. The décor is friendly and functional, but the menu is where the South Side Family Restaurant wins over new customers like us.

Is it 7 a.m. and you want a club sandwich? Sure. Is it 5:30 p.m. and you have a hankering for hash browns and eggs?

You got it. An all-you-can-eat soup and salad bar is also available, as are daily

16

Kid-friendly Yes To avoid wait Consider off-peak times Noise level Fine Bathroom amenities Changing tables in the women’s restroom High Chairs Yes Got Milk Yes, along with bottled juice and hot chocolate Kid’s menu? Yes Anything healthy for the kids?

Salads are available, and breakfast eggs can be made with Egg Beaters for an additional cost Food allergy concerns? As always, ask

lunch specials.

Breakfast ends at 3 p.m. on Fridays for the weekly fish fry featuring Alaskan walleye.

Dinner specials are not limited to dinner time, and include sirloin, roast beef, grilled chicken breast and perch ranging from $7.99 to $12.99 with a choice of potato and vegetable.

Almost too Many Choices And choices were our downfall – there were almost too many. First, we each had to decide if we were in the mood for breakfast. Then there were decisions concerning the specials, baskets and sandwich platters. When that was decided, there were choices for toast, potatoes, sausage links or patties and vegetable sides. The poor waitress had to come back three times before we were ready to order.

“It’s like taking a test,” quipped my husband, after we placed our orders. “The hard part is over.”

I ordered the #2 breakfast – two eggs,

toast and choice of potatoes for $3.79. My husband ordered the #6 with three eggs, choice of steak, potatoes and toast for $7.99.

The 11 year old had the #5 – two eggs, two pancakes, and choices of potatoes, bacon or sausage at $6.99. The 14 year old decided it was time for lunch and ordered the grilled chicken breast platter for $5.98.

It was a lot of good food, and my youngest daughter made a good-faith effort to finish her breakfast. We all had to chip in and help with her #5 breakfast and still left some on the plate.

For those with smaller appetites, a kids/seniors menu offers smaller portions. Breakfast items can also be ordered a la carte, as can appetizers and side dishes.

You’d think their tummies would have been too full for

• December 2013 • www.findlayfamily.com

dessert. But, of course, you’d be wrong.

The list of pies caught our eyes – the choices were cookies and cream, turtle, cherry, apple and coconut cream. Cherry, apple, blueberry and peach cobblers were also available. We tried slices of the apple and turtle pies, and were glad we had some room – they were great.

As we left, we noticed several waitresses greeting customers at the door by name and, in a few cases, asking if they’d like their usual order. We can see that happening with us at the South Side Family Restaurant, where choice is king andthe customer is a member of the extended family.

{December 2013} All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation, and limited size.

Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

Operation Elf: A Community Christmas Party

Saturday, December 8th Hosted by the Tiffin-Seneca Library and sponsored by National Machinery LLC., Operation Elf is the holiday party perfect for the whole family. Taking place on Sunday, December 8 at the Tiffin-Seneca Library, the celebration will include family activities such as holiday crafts and games, Christmas storytelling, face painting and Gordon, the Magician, will perform at 3pm. Santa Claus himself will even be in the building to take photos and hand out holiday gifts! 1pm. Free. Tiffin-Seneca Public Library, 77 Jefferson St., Tiffin.

419-447-3751. tiffinsen.lib.oh.us.

1 SUNDAY North Pole Express - Hop on board a train for a magical trip through a winter wonderland of sparkling holiday lights.

See delightful holiday toy trains running inside the decorated museum. Be sure to dress warm. Weekends through December 29. Friday, 6-9pm; Saturday, 5-9pm; Sunday, 5-8pm. Adults, $2/ Children aged 12 and under, $1. Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation, 11600 CR 99.

419-423-2995. nworrp.com

3 TUESDAY Tween Scene - Come and see what surprises that Miss Erin has planned.

Tweens grades 2-6 this program is for you.

Activities will change every month. Games, crafts and snacks. 6-7pm. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. findlaylibrary.org Free

4 WEDNESDAY

Pre-Winter Hike - Get out and enjoy a brisk walk in the park with program assistant Chris Allen. Dress for the weather. 2-4pm. Riverbend Recreation Area, Shelter 3, 16618 Township Road 208.

419-425-7275. hancockparks.com. Free

After School Art Studio - Come to Awakening Minds Art Studio for open studio time. All ages and abilities are welcome. Wednesdays through December 18.

3pm. $10 per child/$5 per additional sibling. Awakening Minds Art, 515 S. Main St. 419-302-3892. awakeningmindsart.org

Funday Sunday - This month’s theme is Christmas Train and features hands on activities, games and story time.

Bring your family and join the fun! 1:303:30pm. The Mazza Museum, 1000 N. Main St. 419-434-4560. Free

Guided Relaxation for Kids - For children ages 7 and up with an adult.

Presented by Teresa Bartchlett. 6:307:30pm. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. findlaylibrary.org Free

2 MONDAY Holiday Shopping at Bittersweet Farms - Come purchase one-of-a-kind holiday gifts for your loved ones! There will be hand-woven rugs, Christmas ornaments, cookies, pies, and original art pieces. Your purchases will support individuals with autism. Through December 20. Bittersweet Farms, 12660 Archbold-Whitehouse Road, Whitehouse.

419-875-6986. bittersweetfarms.org Free Discovery Story: Ready for Winter Program includes a story, activities, and making nature related Christmas ornaments. Recommended for children 3-6 years old with an adult companion.

Other aged siblings welcome. 10am & 1pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, “Doc” Phillips Discovery Center, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free

5 THURSDAY Cookies & Cocoa with Claus - Reserve your spot for this membersonly pajama dance party with cookies, cocoa, dancing and the big guy himself.

Experiment with holiday-themed activities and demonstrations, story time with Santa’s #1 Elf, a special visit by Santa’s reindeer and chilly animals from The Toledo Zoo. Registration required. 6-8pm. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way, Toledo.

Members only. 419-244-2674. imaginationstationtoledo.org Learn to Sign Christmas Carols Children, teens and adults can learn to sign a Christmas carol. Registration required.

6-7pm. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. findlaylibrary.org Free continued on pg. 18

www.findlayfamily.com • December 2013 •

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continued from pg. 17

6 FRIDAY MONDAY-FRIDAY

Mom & Tot Skate, Bring the little ones to The Cube for open ice skating Monday-Friday. 10am-11am. $2 child/$3 adult skates included.

The CUBE, 3430 N. Main St. 419-424-7176. findlayohio.com

TUESDAYS Starflight First Grade Trail Starter, Camp Fire USA connects children and families with caring, trained adults in an intimate group atmosphere through the club program. 3:30-4:30pm. $15.

Camp Fire USA, 733 Wyandot St. 419-422-5415. campfireusa-nwohio.com

TUESDAYS & WEDNESDAYS

Reading with Tango and Drysdale, Have fun reading with some furry friends.

They love listening to stories! 6-7pm. Free.

Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. findlaylibrary.org

WEDNESDAYS

Toddler Art Zone, Includes a story, art project and music. For ages one to four.

11:30am-12:15pm. $5-$10. YMCA, Downtown Branch, 300 E. Lincoln St. 419-422-8249. findlayymca.org First and second Grade Art Classes, Each month focuses on an element of design. Students will explore new art techniques and media. 4-5pm. $30 per month. Findlay Art League, 117 W. Crawford St. 419-422-7847. findlayartleague.com

After School Art Open Studio, A chance for students of all abilities to independently explore art. All ages and abilities are welcome. Anytime between 3-5pm. Through December 18. $10 per child/$5 per additional sibling.

Awakening Minds Art, 515 S. Main St. 419-302-3892. awakeningmindsart.org

THURSDAYS

Jr. Teens in Action, Curriculum is based on the Five Trails of Camp Fire USA. The Trail to Knowing Me. The Trail to Family and Community. The Trail to Creativity. The Trail to the Environment.

The Trail to the Future. 5:30–6:30pm.

Grades 6-8. Camp Fire USA, 305 W. Hardin St. 419-422-5415. campfireusa-nwohio.com

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Christmas Crafts for Kids - Participants will make a variety of festive crafts and enjoy holiday treats. Reservations required.

1-4pm. $5. Hancock Historical Museum, 422 W Sandusky. 419-423-4433. hancockhistoricalmuseum.org Holiday Lantern Tour - Experience a turn-of-the-century Christmas at Sauder Village! A costumed guide takes small groups on a candle-lit journey to meet historic characters. Guests will experience the holiday customs and celebrations of the 1900s and hear stories about Christmas past and the history of Northwest Ohio. Pre-registration and pre-payment is required. Tours last roughly 90 minutes and will be repeated every half hour. December 6, 7, 13 & 14. 4-8:30pm. Sauder Village, 22611 State Route 2, Archbold.

800.590.9755. saudervillage.org

7 SATURDAY Christmas Open House - Join the Jasper-Hull family as they celebrate Christmas in 1899. Event will include musical entertainment, and visits by Father Christmas. Children’s activities and refreshments provided. Also on December 8.

Saturday, 5-8pm; Sunday, 1-4pm. $1.

Hancock Historical Museum, 422 West Sandusky St. 419-423-4433. hancockhitoricalmuseum.org International Tea and Gingerbread Party - See the delight on children’s faces as they decorate a gingerbread house that is their’s to take home. An added surprise awaits the children attending this year’s Tea! The International Tea Buffet will be set with an assortment of delicious food, scrumptious desserts, savory soup and steaming cups of fragrant teas. Registration required. 11:30am-1pm. $25. Hilton Garden Inn at Levis Commons, 6165 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. 419-878-854. isohimpact.org/tea Christmas Movies Series. How the Grinch Stole Christmas - Holiday fun for the whole family. Small popcorn provided. Please bring your own drink and additional snacks. All ages welcome. Saturdays through December 28. On December14, the Polar Express; December 21, Elf; Dec. 28, Smurfs 2. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 1:30pm.

419-422-1712. findlaylibrary.org Free Father Christmas Workshop Recreate an Old Father Christmas to display for the holiday season. Materials provided. Reservations and advanced payment are required. Hancock Historical Museum, 422 W Sandusky. 10am-noon. Members, $12/ nonmembers, $15. 419-423-4433. hancockhistoricalmuseum.org STEM Girls Rock! - In this workshop, you will prepare all that you need for an imaginary camping trip, you will design a tool prototype, build a water filter and design an earthquake-proof structure.

Recommended for girls in the 4th & 5th grade. 9am-3:30pm. $15. CrossPoint Church, 2019 Broad Ave. 419-225-4085. girlscoutsofwesternohio.org

8 SUNDAY Operation Elf: a Community Christmas Party - The Christmas celebration will include family activities like holiday games and crafts, Christmas storytelling, face painting and Gordon, the 18

• December 2013 • www.findlayfamily.com

27 FRIDAY Holiday Hoops - The 2nd annual Holiday Hoops Basketball Skills Camp gives children in grades 4-8 a chance to develop their basketball skills with university level players and coaches.

Register early to win a free gift. Register

by December 11. Noon. $50. The Franciscan Academy, 5335 Silica Dr., Sylvania. 419-885-3273. franciscanacademy.org

A Litzenberg Holiday Celebration: Candlelight Tours and Holiday Music

Saturday, December 14 Feel the holiday spirit with an evening of music and history. Your family will sneak a look into the past of the Litzenberg Memorial Woods and the historic McKinnis House, which was originally settled by Hancock County pioneers Charles and Mary McKinnis in 1822. Kids will love the candle-lit stroll through the grounds and snacking on delicious cookies. Local choirs and musicians will be caroling throughout the night. Register by December 12. 6-9pm. $5 per vehicle. Litzenberg Memorial Woods, McKinnis House, 6100 U.S. Route 224. 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com —MLR Magician, will perform at 3pm. 1-4pm.

Tiffin-Seneca Public Library, 77 Jefferson St., Tiffin. 419-447-3751. tiffinsen.lib.oh.us Free See Spotlight p.17

13 FRIDAY Planetarium Night: Orion, The Hunter -Learn more about one of the most recognizable constellations, the mythology behind him and who all shares the winter night sky with him.

Recommended for ages 5 years old and up. Participants must sit on floor. Register

by December 12. 7-8pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, “Doc� Phillips Discovery Center, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free

14 SATURDAY A Litzenberg Holiday Celebration: Candlelight Tours and Holiday Music - Participate in a tour of the historic McKinnis House, stroll the grounds and peek into the past on a candle lit walk .

Enjoy cookies and wassail while listening to local choirs and musicians. Register by December 12. 6-9pm. $5 per vehicle.

Litzenberg Memorial Woods, McKinnis House, 6100 U.S. Route 224. 419-4257275. hancockparks.com

15 SUNDAY Rockapella Christmas Show - Enjoy a night of musical talent beyond compare as you listen to the Holiday Sounds of Rockapella‌an interesting mix of rock and a cappella performance. You will be amazed by the full band sound that is generated by these five guys with microphones! 5-7pm. R. L. Heminger Auditorium, 1200 Broad Ave. $30 at the door. 419422-4624. artspartnership.com Hands-On Nature: How to Identify Critters by Animal Groups - Enjoy a story about the curious critters of Ohio, following by walking through multiple learning tables to identify taxidermy or live animals to decide if they are birds, insects,

More events online at FindlayFamily.com

reptiles, amphibians, mammals, or fish.

Opt to make animal crafts to take along home with you. 1-4pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, “Doc� Phillips Discovery Center, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free

Things you need to KNOW For more events, or to submit your own, go to FREE!

www.findlayfamily.com. It's

Create an account by clicking My Account and filling out the necessary information.

Don't worry, it's effortless! Then select My Events to start adding or editing entries.

To be considered in print

31 TUESDAY Noon Year’s Eve - Your family can raise a toast to the New Year with some tasty juice and watch the ball rise- all at the stroke of noon! There’s even a place where you can make a few ReZOOlutions to be a little greener in the new year. The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way, Toledo. toledozoo.org

Wee Ones: Getting Ready for Winter - Program includes a story, activities and a craft. Recommended for 3 year olds and younger with an adult companion. 1-2pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, “Doc� Phillips Discovery Center, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free

18 WEDNESDAY

ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE Individuals may receive one free 20-word ad per month (products offered in ads must sell for under $100). Each additional word 40 cents, payment must accompany ad. Free ads run 1 month and are reserved for private-party’s use, noncommercial concerns and free services. Ads MUST be typed or neatly printed and MAILED, EMAILED, or DROPPED OFF to Findlay Area Family Classifieds by the15th of the month prior to publication.

Line Classifieds: Only $10 per month for 20

words or less. Each additional word is 40 cents each and any artwork will be $5 extra.

Display Classifieds: Display classifieds with a box may be purchased for $25 per column inch. Photos are accepted with ads for an additional $5 per photo.

Deadlines: Ad copy must be received by the 15th of the

month prior to publication.

Lone Ranger Movie for Teens and Adults - Teens and adults may enjoy the brand new Lone Ranger movie featuring Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter and Ruth Wilson. Small popcorn bags provided.

Participants may bring additional snacks and drinks. 5:30-8pm. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. findlaylibrary.org Free

21 SATURDAY

21 SATURDAY First Day of Winter Open House The winter solstice means it is the day we have the shortest amount of sunlight. Take a brief hike at 5pm, just before sunset.

2-6pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, “Doc�

Phillips Discovery Center, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free

All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation, and limited size. Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

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EVENTS

Fox Run Manor Christmas Tree Gala

Elf School - Train to be one of Santa’s Helpers with special guest Buddy the Elf! Get in the holiday spirit. Play games and learn skills to become an Elf just like Buddy.

Grades K-4. Register by December 14th.

10am-noon. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. findlaylibrary.org Free

And before you leave the site don't forget to sign up for The Morning Buzz to receive a list of the coolest events taking place around Findlay everyday and the upcoming weekend.

marketplace Free Classifieds:

16 MONDAY

Submit your events by the 14th of the month prior to the date of the event. Entries are subject to editing for style and omission.

The deadline is the 15th the month prior.

- December 15th 1:30p-3:30p, 11745 Township Road 145 Findlay. Come experience the magic!

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23 MONDAY Family Movie: Despicable Me 2 Come to your library with the family and watch the popular movie, Despicable Me 2. No registration required. 2-3:30pm.

Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. findlaylibrary.org Free

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www.findlayfamily.com • December 2013 •

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