Toledo Parent January/February 2023

KIDS @ JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023

WORK Parent restaurateurs bring their kids along

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FAM I L Y FAVOR

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Let the Nominations begin!

Health + Wellness

Tips to keep your family healthy in 2023 P. 16

Let the nominations begin!

Nominate your Family Favorites now through February 15, 2023.

You may login once per day, per email address.

The top 6 make the final ballot.

Final voting will begin 3/1 - 4/15.

Th y can'tew withoutin you!

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2022

VORITES GO TO

toledoparent.com

• January/February 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

Toledo’s Award-Wining Parent Newspaper Volume 31  Issue 1  JAN/FEB 2023

ONLINE Phoenix Earth Food Co-Op Celebrating 30 Years

by Mary Rose Kulczak

January & February

Giveaway Enter to win rent.com! a p o d le to t a y a tod

Gretchen A. Zyndorf School Days Series 2023 lineup of events

By Caitlin Hudson Tiny Hearts Remembered

Guiding Women through Miscarriage and Infant Loss

by Julie Pompa

Readers Sound Off on the Holidays What kind of Christmas tree did you put up?

MOST READ ONLINE

1 Is “Cocomelon” Harmful for Kids?

2 More than 20 Holiday

ARTIFICIAL NO TREE REAL

43.8%

31.3%

25%

Activities in the Toledo Area: 2022 Edition

3 Kids Eat Free!

Or Close to It.

4 Art Classes for Kids to Enjoy: Toledo Area Favorites

5 Flu Shot: Pros and Cons

Did you watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade?

Yes - 45.5% No - 54.5% What is your favorite part of a Thanksgiving meal?

Turkey - 20.8% Cranberry sauce - 25% Green bean casserole - 12.5% Not having to cook it - 41.7%

Our first giveaway item is an adorable, psychedelic artwork by Kicks by Sammy, a company that features graffiti-style artwork by Sammy Handler, a highly prolific 26-year-old artist. The Dream Big Dreams Smiley Canvas is 16”x16” and is normally $50. It is perfect for a teen who wants to make their space pop, whether it’s in their dorm room or at home. You can follow @kicksbysammyllc on Instagram or subscribe to kicksbysammy.com via email.

Our second giveaway item is Himalayan Momos, the classic Nepalese dumplings that you can easily heat in the microwave, fry, steam or air-fry to introduce your kids to a bit of international cuisine. They are a big hit with kids worldwide! The winner will receive these directly by mail.

Congratulations to the winner of our November/December giveaway,

Wendy Shetterly!

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2023 •

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November 21

KIDS

Erin Holden

(toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com) WEARING UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATERS. STAFF WRITER

This month brings out the passion and creJeff McGinnis letter from the EDITOR Adams Street Media Co. ativity in your mysterious and sometimes (mcginnis@adamsstreetpublishing.com) SEEING MY NIECES SMILE WHEN THEY OPEN PRESENTS! quiet Scorpio child. Do you ever get that What is your biggest ASTROLOGY DIGITAL MEDIA accomplishment from 2022? feeling that inside that mysterious mind is Nate Light a creative genius? This is the blessing of (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Publisher/Editor in Chief ICEBALL FIGHTS. Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) being the parent of a Scorpio.

Get closer A new year typically brings with it Aquarius I GREW THAT ONE TOMATO. IT WAS A BEAUTY. the pressure to look ahead. This year, I to them by watching them discover their DIGITAL MARKETING & SOCIAL MEDIA Co-publisher/Chief want to look back at what I’ve accomMargotFinancial Jacobs Officer Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) talents through experience. plished. You see, this time last year I (margot@adamsstreetpublishing.com) I SUCCESSFULLY AVOIDED REVERTING TO THE January 20-February 18 completed a YearCompass New Year’s WRAPPING PRESENTS. CRAZY PRE-COVID SCHEDULE I HAD KEPT FOR THE This month, ScorpiosYour willchild illuminate their inis a humanitarian who somePAST 30 YEARS! Resolutions journal (see more about timesacan be prone to self-sacrifice. ner passions. Here’s suggestion: pick upThis CONTRIBUTING WRITERS this in “My Favorite Things” below), month, it's essential to teach your child how Editorial Roberts, Taylor Viers, Autumn an art canvas, colored stencils, which prompted me to think about to love pencils, themselves, and that whenan they loveErin Holden, Amelia Assignment Editor: (toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Erin Holden Vasquez, Jeff McGinnis, Kimmie Rose, Kiera Jacobs, themselves, others will love them for who they what I’d like to focus on, and it speciSECURING NEW FREELANCE WRITING OPPORTUNITIES apron, a table cover, paint, brushes and a are.

The birthday theme is, “Know Thyself.”

Julie Pompa, Mary Rose Kulczak, Lisa Alleman, WITH A BIG CLIENT! n I start to for family fiedsolidify to “dreamplans big.” Among the thingsvisits. Who One way over to do that is to have them try Kimberly Feldkamp, Emily Remaklus, Laurie Bertke, Contributing Writers: sponge.

Put the tablecloth your table, I wanted toWill do in we 2022 be thatmaking I actually an 18-hour different ways of expression. Personally, I g at our house?

Laurie Berke, Erin Holden, Caitlin Hudson, Sneha Erin Schoen Marsh made progress on? Here are just a few: recommend out Boomwackers, and set up a creative spacechecking for them to ex- a Kamath, Andrew Kersten, Mary Rose Kulczak, Shaun Christmas? Last year threw all of those joyous toy that allows kids to learn notes and how to Manning, Julie Pompa, Kimmie Rose, Matthew Advertising press themselves. Scorpio children love ato Sackmann, Penny Tullis Meeker, Autumn Vasquez create a beat.

If you're throwing birthday 1. Joining a local community groupwent to of disconnect.

Holiday traditions by the party, get the kids together in a circle and SALES build connections: Check! I joined explore new things. theminthat youof just Advertising put Tell the wackers the center it. Let the kids tay safe andthe make through without (sbell@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Suzanne Bell ToledoitWriter’s Workshop and engaging Sales Coordinator choose two of the tubes and play a beat, wanted to have some fun drawing, paintLibby Cassidy THE FAVORITE FOOD FOR FAMILY MEALS am of loving it. then have them pass the tube to the kids PREPARING ALL(sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) me, it was a lot watching bad Christmas romnext to them and have them copy that beat. ing and that they can too.

Leave it set up GETTING TO WORK FOR SUCH A COOL PUBLISHING My Favorite Things Make more time for reading: I my family2.get-togethers.

COMPANY. Gabrielle Huff (ghuff@adamsstreetpublishing.com) It's enjoyable to hear the kids as they mimic for a week and you will see them (on their made myself do it by joining a Account Executives: each other and create their musical sounds.

It DECORATING OUR CHRISTMAS TREE AND HAVING ming that connectivity with our family. In this Amy Sheetz also gives them self-confidence as they colbook club through the Toledo MuCHRISTMAS(amy@adamsstreetpublishing.com) DINNER WITH MY FAMILY own time) delving into their inner expreslaborate to make music. about maintaining family ties, like our Digital SO MANY LIFE CHANGES; MARRIAGE, NEW HOUSE, seum of Art. You can give your child pots and pans Bonnie Hunter NEW JOB, DAUGHTER MOVED HOME! sion. (bhunter@adamsstreetpublishing.com) app that promotes togetherness through cook-

2022: A Year in Review

Vacation to a state you’ve never to: Iannual went to Maine, and Happenings In addition been to our Holiday I one-upped myself by going to ages with hopeful stories, Quebec after that! including the feature 3.

November 22 to December 21

ilds community mothers.

As I lookamong over my goals, many of are still intough progressdecisions (writing the that moms help youthem navigate first draft of my novel, for one…it is 15 ut, including the “breast is best” topic, with lopercent complete though!), but that’s oints of view, resources get you okay. Iplus truly think if I hadn’tto dreamt big through Toledo Botanical Gardens by writing down what I really want, I um adjustment. wouldn’t have even taken the first steps r tools totoward helpdoing youany onofyour parenting journey 1. TMA Family Art Club these things.

- Held on Wednesdays, That’s what I would like to encourow you’ll find inspiration in our November/ Fridays and Saturdays age our readers to do this year: don’t just look ahead. Also think of what you need to let go. Every year we grow and change, so every year we have to take that into account when we plan for the future.

One thing most of us think about during the new year is our health —whether it’s mental health or physical — local doctors weigh in on important practices in our Health & Wellness Guide. This issue also has a sweet feature about kids who go to work with their parents, a review of Barry Bagels downtown to celebrate the local chain’s 50th anniversary and profiles of two of our favorite nonprofits.

Speaking of favorites, make sure to visit Toledoparent.com to nominate your favorite local businesses in our Family Favorites voting!

with different types of spoons, a creative way Gabbi Huff WATCHING MOVIES. to explore making their own unique sounds. (ghuff@adamsstreetpublishing.com) They can also put on a talent show, play charades, draw pictures, and many other Jenny Leach (jleach@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Bonnie Hunter CHRISTMAS TREE WITH THE (bhunter@ adamsstreetpublishing.com) methods to express themselves with their DECORATING OUR friends. Maybe throw an art party! Your child KIDDOS WAS ALWAYS MY FAVORITE! ALL GROWN Jenny Leach will enjoy helping you put together the perNOW, SO MISS IT! (jleach@adamsstreetpublishing.com) fect party for them, especially when it allows SURPRISING MYSELF ON PROVIDING GREAT them to create from a place of exploration.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR PARTNERS Art/Production And don't forget: your Aquarius child’s mind never stops! The expression will enable them Art/Production to clear their mind and feel joy.

Production Manager:

Pisces

from 11am-5pm, the Art Club is a laid-back event for kids of all ages. The Family Art Center has activities planned, but your child can also explore different art stations on their own, which is perfect for our 21-month-old.

Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) THERAPY. Senior Designer: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) REMEMBERING MY WORTH.

Digital Media: PRODUCTION MANAGER Nate Light Imani (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) SWEET POTATO SOUFFLE.

February 19-March 20 Web Manager: This month your child will be highly emJohn Borell SENIOR DESIGNER pathetic when spending time with you. Mars (jborell@adamsstreetpublishing.com) (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Leah Foley is hitting their sun sign and making them feel Digital Marketing and Social Media: the need to be home. So the perfect birthday Margot Jacobs BLACK(margot@adamsstreetpublishing.com) FRIDAY SHOPPING . you can give them is time with you. Because Administration 2. Linkimals - These Mattel toys your was child isborn so sensitive, how they Your Sagittarius child withaskathem curiAccounting: each have a different learning could best spend their birthday, and then (rarmstrong@toledocitypaper.com) Robin Armstrong Administration focus (Counting Koala, Play plan a special night with them.

Ask if they NOT LOSING MY MIND, Together Panda, and soous on). mind and will always want to explore ACCOUNTING OR AT LEAST I DON’T THINK I DID. would like to have a few friends join.

Leave Each addition to your collection (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) Robin Armstrong beyond Mom andit up Dad’s however, Distribution: to them.limits; It's essential to make sure that can be linked to the rest, so Karena Adams (distribution@toledocitypaper.com) OUR FAMILY OUTING TO CUT DOWN A you let your child know all their favorites will they sing together. Townes SURVIVING COVID they also want direction be included.from Mom and loves them so much, especially FRESH CHRISTMAS TREE. Sloth and Penguin. WeDad got him about what is, Starting traditionisn’t, at a very young age and awhat good the new owl one for Christmas. is essential. Knowing their favorite cake DISTRIBUTION ADVERTISING/GENERAL INFO cream and preparing it for for them.

They areand theicefuture teachers, sci-them is Karena 3. Toledo Botanical Gardens - To me, one of the Adams (distribution@adamsstreetpublishing.com) For advertising and general information, call crucial. This year they're going to want to get best playgrounds in Toledo is the one at the Botanical 419/244-9859 or fax 419/244-9871. E-mail ads to entists, researchers, and into explorers. their hands the preparation,This so let themAdvertising/General Gardens. adsin@adamsstreetpublishing.com.

Deadline for Info go shopping with you and make the cake For advertising advertising copy 2 p.m. Friday before publication. and general information, 4. YearCompass - As I month will offer you and your child the optogether. No matter their age, they can stillcall 419-244-9859 Toledo Area Parent areE-mail available by to adsin@ or fax subscriptions 419-244-9871. ads already mentioned in my mail for $30 per year at Adams Streetfor Publishing, learn to makeas foodthey with you.

Making Deadline advertising copy 2 letter, YearCompass is aportunity very to grow together will be the adamsstreetpublishing.com.

1120 Adams Toledo, Ohio 43604.Area OneParent copy subscripcake will be the most eventful time of their p.m. Friday thoughtful New Year’s tool. beforeSt., publication.

Toledo freeavailable per person week; copies $1 at each.

It is free and printableattached at birthday.

When you go to the store, ask them at your hip, watching everything tions are byper mail for extra $30 per year Adams Street Persons taking copies for any reason other than yearcompass.com. to pick out what they would like to decorate Publishing, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, Ohio 43604. One copy free personal use are subject to prosecution.

Letters you do and wanting to and tryletit!them be creative. Assure them per person per week; extra copies $1 each. Persons taking it with, Happy New Year!

5. Truly Acne Kit - This to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are for anytoreason thaninclude personal use are subject to that you are excited to make the cake withcopies subject skincare kit includes a editing, other and should the writer’s prosecution. them. It's also important to instill confidence cleansing bar that isn’t just for your face; it works for full name and phone number.

Any letter submitErin Holden to the editor must be limitedmay to 300 the whole body! in them by following their lead. They may Lettersted to the editor or publisher be words, printed are subject to editing, andpublisher’s should include the writer’s fullsubsename and phone Assignment Editor at the discretion in issues seem a little nervous, but by standing by their TO RECEIVE OUR WEEKLY number. Any to letter submitted to the editor©or2023 publisher may be its receipt.

Entire contents by Toledo Area Parent side and helping Also publishers of: them, you will accomplishprintedquent at theStreet publisher’s discretion in issues subsequent to Adams Publishing Co. All rights reserved. amazing things together this year. They will E-NEWSLETTER TO ENTER receipt.

Entire contents © 2021

by Adamswithout Street Publishing Reproduction in any form is prohibited have learned how to bake and co-create its Co. All written rights reserved. permissionReproduction of the publisher.in any form is prohibited with you.

A wonderful evening was made esCONTESTS AND GET without written permission of the publisher. pecially for them. I wish you and your Pisces child the happiest of birthdays!

Audited by THE “SCOOP” ON WHAT’S

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HAPPEINING AROUND TOLEDO. 4 • January/February 2023 • www.toledoparent.com toledoparent.com

• November/December 2021 • www.toledoparent.com

#showandtell

Tyson (3.5 months old) enjoying all the fall fun!

Stevie and Drew Fisher (Toledo) as a Ghostbuster and Stay Puff.

We’ve got winners from our Fall Photo Contest and Celebrating Grandparents Photo Contest, along with a few others our readers shared with us along the way! Want to see your little one featured in the next issue? Email us at toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com to submit.

Instagrams we Love

Grandparents Al and Dawn Leinonen posing with little Jescelia Drake (age 1) at St.Peter and Paul church. @midstorytoledo - This nonprofit encourages young people to appreciate their rust belt roots, all while trying to encourage people from other areas of the country to do the same. They have very educational local content.

Grandmother Michele Darden (AKA GG or GaGa) pictured here with her grandson, two-year-old Kaiden (Sylvania). Michele says, “He loves being carried on GG’s shoulders, just like his mom did!”

m

David (age 3) fro

@boochy_mama Mom-owned Kombucha company with the cutest sales reps ever!

@leilaspromise - The 9-year-old founder of Leila’s Promise is making change in the world through her philanthropy!

Follow her to learn how to support her goals to help others thrive.

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2023 •

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what’s briefly happening...

Introducing Rudolph Bike Park New upgrades for Burnham Park

A $400,000 grant that the city of Sylvania and Sylvania Recreation received from the state of Ohio Capital Improvement Community Recreation Project Grants program, as well as an additional $19,821 grant awarded to Sylvania Recreation by “GAMETIME Cares” will allow for upgrades to Burnham Park. Renovations include removal of a gazebo and the addition of new playground equipment for visitors of different ages. Some of the new playground equipment will be installed in the area closest to Maplewood Ave. and will be intended for children ages 2-5. The area of the playground catering to older children will receive new swing sets. For more information about Burnham Park, visit their website or call Sylvania Recreation’s main office at 419-882-1500. —SK

Rudolph Bike Park, located within the Wood County Park district, is a new community and family friendly hub. This bike park creates a space for everyone, from beginners to those who have been around the trails a time or two. All skill levels are accommodated by the multiple tracks that enable everyone to sharpen their skills. A pump track is a looped sequence of rollers and berms—swoopy, banked turns—for bike riders. It’s designed to maximize your momentum, so you can ride it with minimal pedaling. Rudolph Park has free admission and also offers camping, geocaching, bouldering, hiking and kayaking. Open from 8am until 30 minutes after sunset. For more information visit wcparks. org or call 419-353-1897. —OJ

Recycle your styrofoam in Toledo

Lott Industries began taking Styrofoam for recycling at the end of July 2022. Prior to this, the nearest recycling center accepting Styrofoam was in Ann Arbor. They accept styrofoam at their location: 3350 Hill Ave. on Monday–Friday from 8:30-11:45am and 12:45-2:30pm. Drop-off is on the west side of the building under the red canopy near the back of the building. To learn more about acceptable forms of styrofoam to recycle, read our full story at toledoparent.com. —PM

Merrill Rainey writes award-winning board book

Local children’s author and illustrator Merrill Rainey recently received the Good Housekeeping 2022 Award for Best Board Books for Children for his book “ROAR! I’m a Dinosaur!” He is also the author of a series of books called “Color Cut Create,” which allows older children to assemble characters and backgrounds for interactive play. You can find out more about his books at littlerainey.com. —MK

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• January/February 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

Crumbl Cookies now in Toledo

With the sweet smell of freshly baked cookies, Crumbl Cookies, which opened its doors in Toledo on November 4. With more than 600 locations across the country, the bakery features a rotating menu of five specialty cookie flavors in addition to their signature chocolate chip cookie. Carryout, delivery and catering options are available. 6710 W. Central Ave., Ste. 14. Visit crumblcookies. com or call 567-408-2899. —OF

Dental Excellence of Sylvania moving soon

Dental Excellence of Sylvania, which offers services ranging from general dentistry to cosmetic dentistry, will be moving from their current location on Nantuckett Dr. across from Hobby Lobby) to Monroe Street (next to the Appliance Center). Check out the Dental Excellence of Sylvania Facebook and Instagram pages for more updates about the office relocation. —SK

STEM’S new Sylvania location Sylvania Children’s Center’s new location

In addition to the Center’s location on Talmadge Rd., Sylvania Children’s Center has also opened up a new location on Holland Sylvania Rd. The Center, known for its attentive teachers and focus on imaginative play and time outdoors, will now serve even more kids in our community! —EH

Because of the exceptional growth of the organization in the past years, founder Crystal Burnworth and her team began looking for a new place. With their board raising $140,000 and the donation of $50,000 from the Sylvania Rotary Foundation, the initial monies needed for the move, as well as any necessary renovations, are covered. 7335 W. Sylvania Ave. (next to Interstate Commercial Glass) is the new location of the Sylvania STEM center. The 9,000 ft. space will accommodate first through eighth grade students. The new location also has a conference room for community rentals. —OJ

Let the nominations begin!

FAMIL Y FAVORITES

2022

FAVORITES GO TO

toledoparent.com www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2023 •

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tween the lines

advice for parents with children 10-16

Avenues for Autism Paves Way for a Life Without Limits An In-Depth Look at the Nonprofit

By Andrew Kersten

Cinda Williams Chima is the author of science fiction series The Seven Realms, The Shattered Realms and The Heir Chronicles. Denise Phillips, founder of NWO Teen Book Festival and owner of Gathering Volumes.

Teen Book Fest Returns

Teens & tweens meet published authors

By Molly Klima

Returning for a second year, the Northwest Ohio Teen Book Festival will be held on March 18, 2023 at Rossford Junior/Senior High School.

NWO Teen Book Festival is a local organization, started by Denise Phillps, owner of Gathering Volumes (an independent bookstore in Perrysburg), with the mission to “encourage a love of literature in Northwest Ohio teens, and to keep them reading by introducing them to authors and engaging them with thoughtful and fun discussions.” This year’s Festival will feature some authors from last year’s event, as well as new authors.

What to expect Free and open to all attendees age 11 and up, the event invites participants to spend the day with authors, beginning with a keynote speaker and transitioning to break-out sessions, interactive games, shopping and even a chance to pitch your own book idea. Activities also include an escape room and autograph sessions (for books purchased on site or brought from home).

“Kids have the opportunity to not only play games with the authors but also to get to know them and ask questions,” Shannon Holleran, a volunteer committee member for the event, adds. “This is a really unique opportunity for the kids to have a chance to pitch a book idea to published authors and receive feedback in real time.”

“We are trying to fill a gap. There really isn’t anything else like this in our area, and it’s a wonderful way 8

to continue to encourage teens and tweens to keep reading and writing.”

Holleran explains.

At least twenty authors will be presenting, half of which will be returning authors from last year.

All authors have been published by major publishing companies.

Returning authors will include Chelsea Bobulski and Mindi McGinnis. Bobulski lives in Perrysburg and has found success with young adult novels with books ranging from romance to romance-thrillers. McGinnis, last year’s keynote speaker, is a 2016 Edgar Award winner, considered a prestigious award for mystery, nonfiction and film, presented by Mystery Writers of America.

Bring your class Free lunch is provided for attendees. Those planning to attend are strongly encouraged to register online at nwoteenbookfest.com, but those who don’t register in advance will not be turned away. The only cost for attendees is to purchase books, if they desire. Cash and cards are accepted.

If a teacher or leader at a school would like to arrange a trip for the students that will require utilizing buses and drivers, NWO Teen Book Festival will help by providing a scholarship to cover associated costs.

The bus sponsorship and agreement are also on the event website’s homepage.

“We really want this to be accessible to as many teens and tweens as possible,” says Holleran. “So if a school or organization is interested in bringing a class or group, we have a way to help them get here.”

Northwest Ohio Teen Book Festival. 9am3:30pm. Saturday, March 18. Rossford Junior/Senior High School, 701 Superior St., Rossford. info@nwoteenbookfest.com. nwoteenbookfest.com

According to a recent study, in the United States, 1.5 million children and adolescents ages 3-17 are living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Those children are faced with barriers in their lives, including limitations on social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communications and repetitive behaviors.

Avenues for Autism, a Toledobased nonprofit, is working, along with several partnered organizations throughout Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan, to remove those barriers, with the goal of providing opportunities for inclusion, empowerment and the ability to

succeed in life.

“The autistic community can count on us to help them to explore their options and to walk beside them as they discover new possibilities. We are humbled to serve,” explains Stacy Harper, executive director of Avenues for Autism. “We witness firsthand what individuals with autism can accomplish when the limitations are removed.”

Roots in Toledo The organization got its start in 2004 as Great Lakes Collaborative for Autism through the efforts of Bob and Suzy Tyner, parents of a child with autism.

They used their personal challenges to help other parents with autistic children cope with similar struggles.

In 2019, Great Lakes Collaborative for Autism changed its name to Avenues for Autism while continuing to promote the same level of public awareness of autism, actively searching for partners of other autism-focused nonprofit organizations and providing financial relief to families in need.

“We can provide up to $1,500 per family per year to assist them in caring for their family member,” says Harper, while cautioning that it costs about four to six times more per year to cover therapy, medical costs, the purchase of sensory enhancement items and other development needs. Since 2018, Avenues for Autism has given over $300,000 to families. Harper adds that the financial assistance means even more for parents who are forced to

• January/February 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

Stacy Harper is the Executive Director of Avenues for Autism and has been with the organization for nearly three years. move to part-time employment, or no employment at all, to care for their loved one. The organization’s YouTube video, “Avenues for Autism,” explains the in-depth impact that raising a child with autism has on families.

To help provide funding to families, the organization runs special events and fundraisers throughout the year. All funding comes from the Suzanne Tyner Fund. The organization usually runs two fundraisers each year: the Suzanne Tyner Autism Assistance Fund annual breakfast in April that directly benefits the Susan Tyner Fund, and the 9 and Wine Golf Outing that happens every August.

In addition, Avenues funds a high school program, Venture Bound, which helps autistic students transition from school life to employment.

The Vision Moving Forward In 2023, Avenues for Autism is launching a new program, Autism Navigation Services, to provide family therapy and coaching, individual therapy for parents and caregivers, and a referral program. The goal is to help autistic individuals develop and maximize their potential without limits.

The organization had a soft launch in November and looks forward to growing the program in the coming years.

To get involved in making a difference for those living with autism, sign up to be a volunteer for the organization’s events or by donating at avenuesforautism.org.

“Individuals affected by autism are unique because no two individuals are the same,” says Harper.

SPECAIL ADVERTISING SECTION

LA S EC S

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H SEE THE COMPLETE INTERVIEWS ONLINE AT TOLEDOPARENT.COM

Getting to know Toledo’s leaders in education

By Erin Holden

An academic institution’s success depends largely on the leaders at its helm.

We spoke to several of those leaders from area schools, scholarship funds, and other educational organizations that keep our kids learning and thriving.

Anastasia Desmond M.Ed Assistant Headmistress/College and Career Counselor

Northwest Ohio Classical Academy 5025 Glendale Ave. • 567-420-6180 nocacademy.org

What brings you the most joy? What brings me joy is the sweet innocence of children captivated by goodness and wonder. As educators, we are entrusted with the sacred responsibility to lead souls to all that is good, true and beautiful. Working with a strong community of parents and staff who share the same vision makes me happy.

Biggest win professionally: I think my biggest “win” (professionally speaking) is using the knowledge and experience acquired over the span of 19 years to offer a tuition-free classical education to the residents of Northwest Ohio. Northwest Ohio Classical Academy is home to about 480 students and enrollment continues to grow each year with an annual waitlist. It is an honor to be part of such a unique initiative.

What’s your favorite thing to do in your downtime? Spending time with my family, watching my

children compete in their athletic pursuits and seeing a good movie.

What are the top three attributes that an educator should have? Perseverance, dedication and a

love of learning. In order to translate those individual attributes into a successful academic experience, it requires a team of motivated servant leaders who partner with families to model the virtues we seek to instill in our students.

What makes NOCA Unique? NOCA is unique for three primary reasons. First and foremost, NOCA is dedicated to the development of virtuous citizens. Secondly, NOCA offers one of the most rigorous curriculums in all of Northwest Ohio. That includes explicit phonics, grammar, cursive, rich literature, authentic history, Singapore math and a robust science curriculum. Lastly, NOCA is comprised of a strong community of conscientious parents and staff who believe in school choice rooted in the moral and intellectual development of children.

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SPECAIL ADVERTISING SECTION Continued from P. 9

Sarah Ritchey Art Instructor

Toledo Museum of Art 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000 toledomuseum.org

How did you decide that this was the right position for you? What about it brings you joy? Being able to teach from the Toledo Museum of

Art Collection and having the work right in front of you with the students creates such an incredible atmosphere for imagination and creativity. I love learning along with the students, hearing their ideas and how they respond to works of art and what their opinions are about specific artworks. Working for the museum gives me an opportunity to wonder, play and explore with students from all neighborhoods, backgrounds, and abilities who all have one thing in common — a love of art.

How do you maintain a work-life balance? Working as an art teacher, you tend to bring a lot of your ideas and planning home with you. Work gets intermeshed with life in exciting and inspirational ways, just as life is always inspiring art. I have a space dedicated in my home to work on my own artwork, but also to work on projects in their experimental phase.

I consider my fellow art teachers to be close friends and colleagues with brilliant ideas. We have a great community and are able to build upon our ideas with one another.

Name the top three strengths an educator has to have in order to be good at their job. Flexibility, organization and curiosity.

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SPECAIL ADVERTISING SECTION

Megan Salameh Program Coordinator

Northwest Ohio Scholarship Fund 5800 Monroe St., Sylvania 419-720-7048 nosf.org

Sarah Hawley School Director

iLEAD Spring Meadows

1615 Timberwolf Dr. Holland, Ohio 43528 419-491-7423 ileadspringmeadows.org

How did you decide that this was the right position for you?

I had already been working for NOSF for almost five years as the marketing and communications coordinator when the opportunity for this position came up.

What about it brings you joy? The families that we serve and knowing the joy

and financial assistance that this program brings to them. When they call and write thank you letters, you know that NOSF is giving them an opportunity they may not be able to afford without the scholarship.

Describe your biggest win professionally from 2022.

Continuing to serve Northwest Ohio and the community for another year.

This was NOSF’s 24th year serving K-8 families in Northwest Ohio.

What is your favorite thing to do in your downtime?

Spending time with my family and friends.

How do you maintain a work-life balance?

I think that being organized in your daily life, personally and professionally, allows you to have that balance. This then allows you to know what you are up against for the week, and having that plan provides you with that balance.

Name the top three strengths an educator has to have in order to be good at their job. Patience, kindness and knowledge.

How did you decide that this was the right position for you? What about it brings you joy? I knew that I wanted to be in a position where I

would have the opportunity to drive change in education to provide children what they need! A big part of that is being able to identify staff that are the best fit for our school. I love recruiting creative educators that are passionate about their work and up for a challenge. My greatest joy comes from seeing our learners come to school with smiles on their faces, excited to be here, working with a family to overcome challenges that will allow their child to thrive, and hearing learners share their presentations of learning that culminate in each of their projects.

Describe your biggest win professionally from 2022. It was extra

exciting to host our Harvest Festival and other in-person community events after a couple of years of less face-to-face interactions. We love having families and community members on campus for presentations of learning, open houses, volunteering and seasonal events!

What is your favorite thing to do in your downtime? I try to dedicate any downtime that I have to my family. Spending time with my own children, close friends, and extended family is the most fun I ever have! We love to cook together and visit new places!

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SEE THE COMPLETE INTERVIEWS ONLINE AT TOLEDOPARENT.COM

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SPECAIL ADVERTISING SECTION

Joella Simmons

School Leader

HOPE Learning Academy 4234 Monroe St. 419-297-6313 hopelearningacademy.org

Describe your responsibilities as school leader: As the school leader of

HOPE Learning Academy of Toledo, it is my responsibility to uphold the mission and vision of HOPE. Our primary goal is to support the social, emotional and academic needs of students with special needs and exceptionalities. Hope Learning Academy uses a non-traditional classroom approach to meet the needs of students we serve. I support my staff in executing their commitment to high standards and success for all our students.

I lead the day-to-day activities of the school with a positive, enthusiastic attitude, taking the time to listen to what the students, staff and parents need.

It is my responsibility to ensure that our teachers are effective by supporting classroom instruction, providing professional development, and providing a curriculum across all grade levels to support our students’ learning.

My most important responsibility is to provide a safe and engaging learning environment where each individual student can learn, be inspired and grow academically and socially.

What is it that makes your school stand apart from others?

There is no other school in the Toledo area that is like HOPE Learning Academy. We are dedicated to being a successful school by focusing on the social, emotional and academic needs of the students we serve. HOPE provides small classroom sizes, sensory integration, social skills and arts integration.

What is your educational philosophy? My personal philosophy of education is that all children are different and have different learning needs. Every child deserves to have a stimulating educational environment where they can grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. It is my mission to create this type of atmosphere where students can meet their full potential. HOPE provides a safe environment where students are invited to be themselves.

My personal mission is to teach, inspire, and help others to grow. HOPE Learning Academy is about giving hope to students and families that may have faced challenges in traditional classrooms. We individualize our education and instruction so that each student can learn and grow to their fullest potential. As the school leader, I am able to make a positive impact on the students and teachers that I lead.

Let the nominations begin!

FAMIL Y FAVORITES

2022

FAVORITES GO TO

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• January/February 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

SPECAIL ADVERTISING SECTION

iLEAD Spring Meadows

Lynn Cherry Head of School

Lial Catholic School 5700 Davis Rd., Whitehouse lialschool.org

OPEN HOUSE!

How did you decide that this was the right position for you?

When I found Lial, I knew it was the right fit for me. This little school in the woods has become the center of my days; I work, pray, and spend time outside of school with the families and staff in our community. The balance of faith and friendship at Lial has brought me joy.

Describe your biggest win professionally from 2022.

2022 marked the 50th anniversary for Lial. With it comes a year of celebration, and we have been blessed with alumni returning to campus for multiple events.

Our 50th celebration has also brought in donations and a major safety grant which have been designated for capital improvement projects, including a new building sign, a new outdoor building and our entire school being outfitted in 3M security film on all our interior/exterior windows and doors.

What is your favorite thing to do in your downtime?

I love spending time with my family and our new puppy, Rocco Rose.

How do you maintain a work-life balance?

I use my Google calendar to schedule my entire day, including work and family commitments. I even schedule time throughout the week devoted to working out, which is an amazing tool to help manage stress.

Name the top three strengths an educator has to have in order to be good at their job. Faith-filled, prepared and approachable.

Join us for aN evening packed full of information, pizza and fun!

TUESDAY

TH January 17 Five PM to Seven PM

Come see what iLEAD Spring Meadows is all about. Tour our campus, meet our Facilitators, Leadership, Learners and Families, who will all be available to answer questions.

ST FRANCIS DE SALES SCHOOL,

A BROTHERHOOD FOR LIFE. APPLY NOW FOR 7TH & 8TH GRADES

Then, sit down, share a few laughs and have a slice or two with us!

iLEAD Spring Meadows A Tuition-Free Public Community School Serving Grades TK-8

sfsknights.org | 419.214.5425 2323 W. Bancroft Street | Toledo, Ohio

1615 Timberwolf Drive in Holland iLEADSpringMeadows.org

Now Enrolling! Call: 419-491-7423 www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2023 •

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K I D S

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W O R K

Toledo Area’s Family-Run Restaurants

By Mary Rose Kulczak

For many restaurateurs, food is a family business. And when the family includes young children, creative parents find ways to include the kids in the day-to-day operations. The children learn practical, hands-on lessons in math, reading and spelling, and the parents often involve the kids in daily tasks. Kitchen Impossible? Not at all!

We spoke with local restaurant families to see how they manage the work-life balance.

PHOTOS BY NAILYA WEBER - THE FABEL PHOTOGRAPHY

THE SAGASER CHILDREN’S EXPERIENCE What do you like about helping at the restaurant?

MAGGIE: Just helping.

It’s fun.

RETTA: Money. I get moolah.

JOEY: That I, at least, get to carry some stuff.

What is your favorite job there?

MAGGIE: I guess I’d say host. I get to make all the calls.

RETTA: Host, because it’s really hard.

JOEY: Waiter, the one who gets the orders.

What do you hope to do when you grow up?

MAGGIE: I have no idea whatsoever, but a singer sounds kind of fun.

CHILDREN: Loretta “Retta,” age 8 Joseph “Joey,” age 6 Margaret “Maggie,” age 10

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RETTA: Be a teacher.

JOEY: Be an astronaut.

• January/February 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

SEBASTIANO’S ITALIANO RESTAURANT 4448 Heatherdowns Blvd. 419-382-0615 PARENTS: Jonathon Sagaser, Owner and Chef Sarah Sagaser, Owner, Front of the House Manager Sebastiano’s is a family-owned business that enjoys being part of the South Toledo community. They focus on a kitchen-driven setup that emphasizes quality to better connect with their guests.

HOW DO YOUR CHILDREN HELP OUT AT THE RESTAURANT? The girls help host or serve when they are feeling it, or when we are in a pinch and they can tell their help is truly needed.

Joey is the master schmoozer. He charms and entertains everyone he interacts with — a total restaurant kid!

WE HEAR YOU HAVE A PLAYROOM SET UP FOR THEM AT THE RESTAURANT! TELL US ABOUT IT. When Jon and I purchased the restaurant from the founders, Sebastiano and Helane, they had already raised their own two girls in the restaurant.

The back storage room was already set up where half was a living room/playroom, so we have kept that going.

A wonderful staffer gave it a makeover when we were on a vacation last year, and we’ve acquired some inexpensive furniture and carpet remnants to make it more than comfy for homework and hangout time. That room sees a lot of creative uses for emptied boxes and frequently bears the clutter of three busy and imaginative minds.

WHAT HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE BEEN WHEN BRINGING KIDS TO WORK? I absolutely love that our family can be “together” while we keep the place going. Many customers have seen our children grow these last 9+ years and are invested in what’s going on in our children’s lives.

Over the years, our staff has more than just “put up with” the kids, they adore them as they would nieces or nephews or younger siblings. They stick around at the end of the night for the Sagaser Kids Revue on the corner stage, and they watch puppet shows in the back room between waiting on tables. Many staffers or regular customers have helped with homework! Musicians who play at Sebastiano’s often feature the kids’ favorites!

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO INCLUDE THE KIDS IN THE FAMILY BUSINESS? Jon and I each grew up with a parent/ parents who owned small businesses. We knew that meant missing out on the experiences of some things but gaining others. I remember when school was virtual during the height of the COVID pandemic in 2020. I would get them involved in as much as possible and send pics to their teachers asking how many subjects they could get extra credit for. Just helping in the restaurant covers math, technology, reading, spelling and social studies.

When they were smaller, they had jobs like blowing out the candles at the end of the night. Now that they are older, they can help with stocking and putting orders in.

They know the table numbers and can run food or water/ soft drinks. We are trusting them more and more as they show responsibility and they are invested in seeing the restaurant succeed. They move around the restaurant like they own the place!

ELEMENT 112 RESTAURANT 5735 N. Main St., Sylvania 419-517-1104

PARENTS: Chris Nixon, Owner and Chef Madeline Nixon, wife and mother Chef Nixon’s restaurant serves French bistro-style classics made with farm-fresh seasonal ingredients in a comfortable ambience in downtown Sylvania.

HOW DO YOUR CHILDREN HELP AT THE RESTAURANT? Define “help.” I would say they more or less just add to the environment and sample the food!

WHAT HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE BEEN WHEN BRINGING KIDS TO WORK? The staff is very understanding.

The kids add to the family feel of the business. We have learned to hide the chocolate croissants.

CHILDREN: Lorenzo, age 3 Ludovic, age 5 Luciano, age 7 mo.

BENCHMARK RESTAURANT 6130 Levis Commons, Perrysburg 419-873-6590

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO INCLUDE THE KIDS IN THE FAMILY BUSINESS? It shows them how the family functions on a day-to-day basis, and lets them learn about finances and hard work.

CHILDREN: Theodore “Theo,” age 5 Evelyn “E.V.,”age 9

PARENTS: Jeff Dinnebeil, Vice President of Operations at Benchmark Restaurant Group.

Megan Dinnebeil, Sales and Marketing at BRG The Dinnebeils are co-owners, with Ed Harmon of NAI Harmon, of the Benchmark Restaurant Group, which includes Benchmark Restaurant, Claude’s Prime Seafood and Harbor Town Tavern.

HOW DO YOUR CHILDREN HELP AT THE RESTAURANT? E.V. does everything from working at the host stand, greeting and seating guests, to running food to tables and prepping. Chopping, breaking down tenderloins, cracking eggs, cleaning king crab…I mean everything! She has worked at Zoo to Do and many offsites with us. This kid takes after her chef father — she loves all food and loves to cook. Theo, being 5, doesn’t get to hold a knife yet! But he is learning. Right now, Jeff has him counting and sorting and he helps out with some special events.

WHAT HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE BEEN WHEN BRINGING KIDS TO WORK? It’s good when it’s good, and when it’s bad… But, all jokes aside. It’s difficult to keep kids entertained in any setting. We are lucky that our team is more like a family.

Everyone has seen E.V. and Theo grow up.

The staff is always engaging with them, asking them how school was providing them with simple tasks to help.

EVELYN’S EXPERIENCE WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE JOB AT THE RESTAURANT? All of it! I like bringing food to people so that I can meet them. Cooking pasta and cracking eggs is so much fun.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO DO WHEN YOU GROW UP? When I grow up, I want to do what Mom and Dad do. I want to work in a restaurant and make people happy.

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2023 •

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

How to live a healthier and more vibrant lifestyle is often at the top of our New Year’s Resolution lists, but how do we go about it? We asked local professionals — doctors, dentists, and mental health providers among them — what they suggest for the new year, along with a few questions to get to know them a bit. This section will inspire you to be your best selves in 2023!

Health +

Wellness Local health professionals povide advice for the new year

By Erin Holden

Read the full interviews at toledoparent.com

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112 E. Dudley St., Maumee 419-326-5732 bloomwomenscounseling.com Describe your role at your practice.

Owner and therapist.

What is your favorite thing about what you do?

Helping women feel seen and heard.

What is the most difficult thing about what you do?

Honestly, I enjoy all aspects of my work, even the more challenging things. However, the most challenging thing I often hear is how alone women and mothers feel in their experiences. One of our goals at Bloom Women’s Counseling is to provide a space where women can feel safe to talk about their biggest struggles and fears.

What healthy tips do you have for our readers going into 2023? Mental health is health! It’s very hard to commit to physical wellness goals if you are struggling with your mental health. Our bodies are interconnected, and our thoughts play a huge role in how we feel about ourselves and how we interact with the world. Remembering to take care of your mental health at the same time you are taking care of your physical health is vital to any long term wellness goal.

• January/February 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

5012 Talmadge Rd., #100 419-474-9611 jonfrankeldentistry.com

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and CACFP Manager

Tell us a little about your practice, and what sets it apart?

Frankel Dentistry is the first 100 percent employee-owned dental practice in the United States. I am sharing the legacy my father started in 1946. Seventy-five years later, Frankel Dentistry continues to change the lives of patients and the owners.

What’s something you wish people knew about their health in regard to your specialty? Regularly scheduled dental visits are the key to not only a beautiful, healthy smile, but enhanced overall health. Dentistry has changed dramatically over the years.

Most of our patients tell us they look forward to their visits.

What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their health? Avoiding preventative measures and symptoms of disease. Waiting too long leads to serious issues. Take care of small issues before they become big problems.

What health-related resolution would you suggest people consider for 2023? Schedule a dental appointment!

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Now accepting registrations for new location

First 250 families to sign up receive 20% off lessons through March 31, 2023

FAMIL Y

Y FAVORITES

2022

PLEASE NOMINATE US

BEST SWIM SCHOOL!

safesplash.com/locations/perrysburg-oh

2 Locations to serve you.

HOLLAND (419) 370-2801 1510 Spring Meadows Drive #D-100 PERRYSBURG N EW (419) 359-8174 10602 Fremont Pike Suite 4

10 locations in the Toledo area 419-704-2009 earlylearningacademies.com What mistakes do you see parents making when it comes to feeding their kids?

Helping your kids develop lifelong healthy eating habits starts with providing structured, routine meals served at the table with the entire family present. While this scenario isn’t feasible every single day, do your best. Children learn so much from family meals. Another common mistake is forcing children to clean their plate. Forcing kids to continue eating once they are full trains them to ignore hunger and fullness cues and, over time, will create a habit of overeating.

If your child genuinely does not like a particular food, do not force them to eat it! Everyone has their own individual food likes and dislikes, which can include sensitivity to different textures.

Forcing children to eat a food they do not like will only make them resist it even more. Oftentimes, people who were forced to eat foods they disliked as a child will continue to avoid these foods into adulthood. Would you rather your child eat their green beans today or avoid them throughout the rest of their life?

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION CONTINUED FROM P. 17

Now accepting new clients!

6407 Monroe St., Sylvania 419-882-1017 7928 Secor Rd., Lambertville, MI 734-854-6221

Need to talk?

Therapy for Women & Moms

4413 Keystone Dr., Maumee 419-887-1247 perfectbraces.com

At HLS Orthodontics, the facility is not only equipped with the latest technology and the staff trained in the latest techniques, but they also manage to make the experience as fun as possible for the kids in their care.

Dr. Andre Haerian says that many people think that orthodontic care is just about achieving a pretty smile, but it is so much more. “Although the end results are always aesthetically pleasing, our treatment offers jaw alignment for long-term oral health,” he says.

Though it’s tempting to put dental care on the back burner with our busy schedules, Dr. Haerian warns that this will come back to bite you in the long run.

419-326-5732

bloomwomenscounseling.com

SYLVANIA PEDIATRIC DENTAL CARE

“Looking for treatment when something is wrong as opposed to preventive health maintenance is always a mistake,” he says. “2023 can be the year for everyone to consider their own health and how their decisions can affect their loved ones and others in the community. Stay healthy and avoid unhealthy habits.”

Make an appointment at one of HLS Orthodontics’ three locations to get your child started on their healthiest year yet!

1510 Spring Meadows Dr., D-100, Holland • 419-370-2801 10602 Fremont Pike, Ste. 4, Perrysburg • 419-359-8174 safesplash.com

What is your #1 tip for getting kids to be more physically active? I firmly believe that for kids to be consistently physically active, they need to be having fun.

When should a parent first sign their kids up for swim classes? At what age can they begin? We offer swim lessons from 6-month-old kiddos all the way to adults, which is really cool! I think that any age is a great age to start swim lessons. It’s an important life skill that’s useful for everyone.

2022

FAVOMRIITLEYS

FAV Please Nominate Us as Best Pediatric Dentist!

CALL 419.882.7187 5860 W. Alexis Rd., Sylvania, OH 43560

Visit us online at SPDC.dental

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What is the most difficult thing about what you do? I love what I do every day. It’s amazing to see kids and adults alike make progress with swimming so that they are water safe. Our biggest challenge is that drowning is still a huge issue in the United States, including Ohio.

What health tips do you have for our readers going into 2023? Just like swimming is a life skill, staying healthy is also a very important life skill. Stay active doing the things that you enjoy and your body will thank you!

• January/February 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

26580 N. Dixie Hwy., #101, Perrysburg 419-872-2255 getinnatehealth.com

Tell us a little about your practice and what sets it apart?

The focus of our office is prenatal and pediatric care, which makes up over 60 percent of our practice. Our doctors have extensive training through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) which allows them to specialize in these areas, which includes certification for the Webster Technique for prenatal moms.

What’s something you wish people knew about their health and chiropractic care? You don’t have to have neck or back pain to see a chiropractor. A large portion of our practice comes for healing from other health challenges like colic, reflux, digestive issues, poor sleep, anxiety, ADHD, ear infections, prenatal care, baby positioning and much more!

What health-related resolution would you suggest people consider for 2023? Get your spine and nervous system checked. Nervous system health is vital to reaching your health goals because your brain and nervous system control and regulate all functions of your body!

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Creating Lifelong Learners Educare Academy proudly partners with the Ohio Department of Education to provide Free Pre-K to prepare children for school success. Maximize early learning with age-appropriate activities for social, cognitive, and emotional growth—all at Educare’s 10 convenient Toledo-area locations!

SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY!

419-704-2009 educareacademy.com

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2023 •

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION CONTINUED FROM P. 19

getinnatehealth.com (419) 872-2255

Leading the way with pediatric, prenatal and family chiropractic care!

Let the nominations begin!

FAMIL Y FAVORITES

5860 Alexis Rd., Sylvania 419-882-7187 sylvaniapediatricdentalcare.com Describe your work. We have an amazing team of pediatric dentists at Sylvania Pediatric Dental Care. A pediatric dentist is a dentist that has had additional training beyond dental school, so they are equipped to treat the dental needs of our pediatric population.

What is the biggest struggle kids have when it comes to taking care of their teeth? Life gets busy, which we certainly understand here at SPDC, but it is still important to find time to brush and floss your teeth well.

We love to see parents helping their kids by making sure they are not missing any spots. Diet also plays a huge role in oral health. The more kids snack throughout the day or drink sugary drinks they consume, the more likely they are to get cavities.

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At what age do you recommend taking a child to their first dentist appointment and why? The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends every child establish a dental home by their first birthday. Our goal is to teach good habits early so we can create healthy smiles that last a lifetime.

2022

FAVORITES Nominate you Family Favorites now through February 15, 2023.

You may login once per day, per email address.

The top 6 make the final ballot.

Voting will begin March 1st - April 15th.

GO TO

toledoparent.com They can't win without you!

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214 Louisiana Ave., Perrysburg 419-873-7653 bodyandsolemassagetherapy.com Name 3 things that people should do every day to stay healthy.

Drink plenty of water, stress less (or find ways that work for you to destress) and eat a clean and well-balanced diet!

Tell us about one of the most impactful experiences you’ve had with a client. I try to make sure that all of my experiences with clients are impactful! I do that by having a connection with each of them in addition to learning their personal goals and current lifestyle habits. Based on that information, I offer suggestions to support and meet their lifestyle goals. I believe that it is essential for people to make goals that fall within their daily routines and/or lifestyles to be successful in achieving impactful long term changes and experiences in their daily lives.

Would you rather take a boxing class or yoga? Definitely yoga!

Would you rather have a strict diet or strict fitness routine? I have a good diet plan already, so I would definitely say a strict diet.

• January/February 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

healthy kids Operation Surprise Attack

Nonprofit supports sick kids and their families

By Julie Pompa

Operation Surprise Attack has organized campaigns to collect thousands of greeting cards, gifts and financial donations for sick children and their families in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan.

Local business Taylor Automotive is a corporate sponsor, providing funding and making cards for each card launch.

For families whose child is diagnosed with a serious illness, life is anything but normal. But at that critical point, the time of diagnosis, a stealth volunteer team can spring into action to help relieve at least some of the burdens local families may face.

“We try to take some of the burdens off the family while their child is sick,” said Lisa Fulton, president and founder of Operation Surprise Attack. Fulton identifies the organization’s mission as “surprising sick children in our community by attacking them with an outpouring of love, encouragement and support.” Established in 2007, the organization became a 501( c ) 3 nonprofit in 2021.

“When I started Operation Surprise Attack, it was just me, and I was working with families across the country,” Fulton said. She’d spend hours on the phone asking local schools for greeting cards and talking to businesses about making donations.

“It’s been difficult locating kids to support because we have to rely on word-of-mouth from the community,” she explained. When she learns of a possible child to support, she will have the family complete a recipient application. Then they can be scheduled for an upcoming card launch. “Today there’s nothing else like what we do, and I have an amazing team. This is really my life’s calling.”

Thousands of cards, help and support Over the years, Operation Surprise Attack has organized campaigns to collect thousands of greeting cards, gifts and financial donations for sick children and their families in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. They reach out for financial support, gift donations and greeting cards from every corner of the community – businesses, schools, health care providers and the public.

Four general “card launches” are scheduled each year around Valentine’s Day, spring, back-to-school / fall (which is also Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month) and the holidays.

Help during the holidays Local business Taylor Automotive is a corporate sponsor, providing funding and making cards for each card launch. Meijer funded holiday activities.

The group has created fundraisers with businesses throughout the community and held card-making events at fairs and other community events this past summer, at local churches and businesses, and through regional schools.

They are primarily focused on creating cards and gathering gifts to present to the children, but families are not overlooked. “Because children have to travel (to other cities) for treatments, we like to help fami-

Four general “card launches” are scheduled each year around Valentine’s Day, spring, back-to-school / fall (which is also Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month) and the holidays. lies out with gift cards, and also help with household needs, such as groceries and utility payments,” said Fulton.

The families in each card launch tend to stay in touch with one another, as well as the group, as time goes on, said Fulton. And they are establishing a fund to help with the expenses for continued treatment, and for final expenses if a child passes.

During the 2022 holiday season, the group selected four children for holiday “attacks”: Danica, 11, from Taylor, MI; Ivy, 3, from Manitou Beach, MI; Jackson, 14, from Perrysburg; and Brody, 4, from Tiffin.

Greeting cards and other items were delivered to the children on December 21.

People are invited to participate by providing cards, or working within their group, business, church, etc., to have a card-making event. The organization established a wish list of family items on Amazon for contributions during the launch period, and individuals and organizations will often “adopt” a child on the list to sponsor. Donations are also accepted.

Operation Surprise Attack is located at 27100 Oakmead Dr., #307, in Perrysburg. Contact 567-331-2162, operationsurpriseattack. org or their Facebook or Instagram pages.

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2023 •

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family matters

Author Inspires Children to Dream

Spring Elementary Alum Vincent Flowers donates books to the school

By Mary Rose Kulczak

Speaking with former Toledo native and author Vincent Flowers is inspiring, encouraging you to give back to the community, to travel and maybe even to write a children’s book. The reason?

Vincent Flowers gives anyone who hears his story permission to dream.

“I grew up ‘Out Stickney’ on Paxton in North Toledo. Me, my mom and my sister,” Flowers explains. As a student of Spring Elementary, he recalls the teachers who shaped his early years. “When I think about Spring School, I think about three teachers. In second grade, Miss Nixon. In fifth grade, Ms. Redmond.

And in sixth grade, Mr. Ford.”

An encounter with Ms. Redmond shaped his future. “In fifth grade, I started missing school. Ms. Redmond sent a friend to my house to bring me a note from her. The note said ‘If you don’t get your butt back in school, I’m going to flunk you.”

Flowers went back to school, and Ms. Redmond encouraged him to strive for something more. “She took me aside and said ‘You’re very intelligent, you can do a lot of things, but you need to focus.’”

Inspired to Achieve Redmond recommended Flowers for the Ohio State Young Scholars program, and he was accepted. The program required students to maintain a 3.5 GPA in middle school and a 3.0 GPA in high school. Flowers did just that, graduating from Central Catholic High School with a 3.65 GPA. Based on that success, he received a full academic scholarship to The Ohio State University.

At OSU, Flowers earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering. He went on to work for Johnson and Johnson for over twenty years. His work has taken him to over 25 countries, and

Children’s book author Vincent Flowers with his wife, Zelia, and children, Zion and Zoe. he has traveled to an additional dozen countries on his own. Not bad for a kid whose annual family vacation was a summer day trip to Cedar Point.

Inspired to Write A Children’s Book Flowers married, moved to Florida and started a family. While reading a book to his son, Zion, one day, Zion pointed to a character in the book and said, “Daddy, that’s me!” Flowers saw how Zion identified with a character that looked like him, and decided to look for similar books. “I was looking around for more books with characters that looked like him, and I was struggling,” Flowers said.

That experience made Flowers decide to write a book that would better represent his family and other families, too. The book, “Zoe and Zion Love To Build,” with characters based on his own children, was published by Mahogany Press Publishing on Father’s Day 2022.

Flowers’ second book, “Zoe and Zion Love to Bounce,” will be published on Father’s Day of 2023. “Both stories show how Zoe and Zion have each other’s back and how they play together. My plan is to follow them as they age, highlighting different aspects of their relationship and how they love each other.”

Inspired to Give Back Flowers showcases his personality in the ways he gives back to his community. When the movie “Black Panther” was first released, he worked with teachers and administrators at Spring Elementary to send an entire class of kids to see the movie in the theater, paying for tickets, popcorn and soda.

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• January/February 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

Zion and Zoe Flowers are the inspiration for their father’s books.

Recently, he returned to Spring Elementary to read his book to all of the first and second graders. When he finished reading, one student asked, “Hey Mr. Flowers, the question I have is ‘Can I have that book?’” Flowers was happy to report that every student would get a book that day. “It was like Oprah.

Everybody gets a book!” Flowers said with a laugh. Flowers hopes to inspire more people giving back to the community and making a difference in the lives of children.

“You don’t really hear about the positive stuff from people who grew up Out Stickney. We’ve got positive people who have come out of Toledo. People who grew up in Toledo are doing big things. How do we get more people to give back? How do we get more people to see that our children need to see them doing positive things so that they can choose to do positive things, too?”

Flowers believes that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

“I’m an IT guy. I published a children’s book that rose to number one in three categories on Amazon. What I’m trying to do is set an example for my kids, and other kids, to say ‘Hey look, if you want to do something and you just lock in on it, you can make it happen.”

digital age Preserves IsDishtory Your Child forFood At Home Shopping and Familyto Addicted Baby FormulaMemories How iReviews has made it a little easier Social Media?

By Andrew Kersten

New app developed by Toledoans creates audio heirlooms by recording recipes

By Mary Rose Kulczak

Tips to help teens stay safe and find balance

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It all started with a cookie. Dan ZaBegin at the beginning wisza was hoping to re-create the perfect Zawisza, a lifelong resident of Toledo sugar cookie from his childhood, so he and a University of Toledo graduate, went to the source and called his mother. contacted Chris Kozak to brainstorm “The inspiration for Dishtory started the idea. Kozak, also a Toledo native with a conversation between me and and UT graduate, knew where to start. my mother,” Zawisza said. “Looking to about In light of media coverage “Chris started from the beginning by share the sugar cookies I remembered saying, what we don’t the harmful effects that apps such as‘We don’t know or watch that new YouTube vlog right That being said, there have also from my youth with my own family, know,’” Zawisza said. “So we went to Instagram have onforyoung people, I wanted to get hercan cookie recipe before you go to bed. Maybe set aside been effects with social media, as many Northwest Ohiopositive resources as myself.

Afterparents a game ofare phone tag, my many wondering how they we could find. Weespecially talked to the Chamin its ability to connect people a few hours a day where you’re not on mom called me back and left a voicemail can protect their kids. Is it okayber, for yourLaunchduring Rocket and Jump Start to Snapchat and go for a walk or read or the toughest of lockdowns at describing how she used to make the help lay the foundation for the app. In child tothat’s usewhen social promotional items, and Double A Solucookies, and themedia? concept If so, how can cook or...anything! pandemic. But of addition, we usedthe localbeginning resources likeof the tions for the app’s development.” of Dishtory was After listening to they do soborn. safely? (the law firm) Eastman and Smith for Also, curate your feed. Don’t follow course, moderation is key.

Kozak knew that he wanted this app the voicemail, I realized I now have this Seeking guidance, we reached out toFront Door Marketing for legal help, to be something that was accessible to people who make you feel bad about recipe (preserved) for the rest of my life, Caroline Fenkel at Charlie Health, all members the family while also andDr. in my mom’s voice.”

Did it surprise you whenof news yourself or your life. Always block and being user-friendly. “From the onset, we the first-ever virtual mental health broke that Facebook’s report any bullying (which, yes, inwanted thisown to be a multi-generational clinic for high-acuity patients. The clinic research showed its photo-and app, meaning it would be easy for users passive-aggressive commenting cludes serves teens and young adults strugof all ages regardless of their technologivideo-sharing app, Instagram, and anonymous posting). Your priority cal capabilities,” Kozak said. “Additiongling with mental health and substance can be toxic for ally, teenage girls? is your mental health, so making sure I think Dishtory can help bring use disorders. Fenkel, a licensed clinical through cooking Why? families together by sharing memories you haveConnecting a social media atmosphere Zawisza encourages families to social worker, is its co-founder and chief through meals theyand remember Definitely not a surprise to me, I from that is positive for your outlook— and download the app, take their devices years ago.” clinical officer. She shared some warnwould assume that most who provide maybe even yougetsomething— to theteaches kitchen, and to work creating ing signs to watch for as well as tips for mental health services for adolescentsto debut From development can makememories. a huge difference.

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1. Download the •official Youthe have with youth and work with their children to prepare help in locating it while getting best worked be passed A simple threean average teenagercould — that the down. platform Broadly speaking, the emotional relaa delicious meal-- make a video of the from the Chrome On the button design allows users to record, and families for more than 13 Store. is price. designed to promote an idealized tionship to devices, social media, gamadults and children cooking together, review and save those recipes with their you can see an overview years. What kindpage, of changes kids through various steps in version or curated sense of reality. But ing, etc. iswalk what’s most important to pay smartphones. extension, read about priyourthe teen the recipe or let the young ones take Reasons for the shortage have you seen inabout “The launch has been an exercise in most of us aren’t actively thinking about attention to. The time spent is an obvipictures of the final product. The experivacyofpractices reviews. patience,” Kazak explains. “Dan and clients social and check The reason for what experts are with the rise that when we’re scrolling, especially ous thingence to note, buttogether it’s notis always the of cooking sure to create I have been working on this for more media? calling “the worst formula shortage 2. When the download is complete, memories, and, since the younger people who follow influencbest way family to determine whether orrecipe not a than two years, so the launch didn’t and is recorded, those memories will last for in decades” can be traced backWith to a a lot of our teen We’re very excited to person head to young Amazon to search for have huge happen ers who sway overnight. over their young has a disordered relationSign up for Music generations.” finally share this with the world, and to adult patients, there’s a complicated reported contamination at the Abbott baby formula. Lessonsaudiences.

They’re bright and shiny and ship with technology. Like all addiction, and receive help everyone start saving and sharing relationship factory in Michigan in February, 2022, with social media. We’re perfect and don’t usually disclose the app can be downloaded at Google Play it exists onThe a spectrum and varies from their memories.”

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But when the relation-

By Laurie Bertke

TAKE MUSIC LESSONS!

Toledo’s largest music school:

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Parents should appro tion with empathy, first Remember: just because spending a lot of time on device doesn’t mean the (remember when you w hours on the landline w friend after school?). Bu that the relationship wit has begun to affect every ing and mental health, t child down and start a c with them about it. Com is key; be curious withou sumptions in your ques tant for them to feel hea and safe.

At what point shoul seek professional he child?

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www.toledoparent.com January/February 2022 • 23 www.toledoparent.com • January/February• 2023 •

mclaren.org/stlukesER

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Barry Bagels Pairs Well with a visit to Imagination Station

Stop by the Toledo deli for a quick, affordable meal

Turkey sandwich on a plain bagel at Barry Bagels.

By Laurie Bertke

Barry Bagels Express Imagination Station 1 Discovery Way 419-214-9180 barrybagels.com/downtown-toledo

Tuesday-Friday: 8am-3pm Saturday: 10am-3pm Barry Bagels is a Toledo area classic, and now families can enjoy the local chain’s most popular menu items in a new “express” location adjacent to Imagination Station in downtown Toledo.

Founded by the late Barry Greenblatt, Barry Bagels is a regional favorite serving tasty deli-style sandwiches, soups, salads, and — of course — bagels. The family-owned business celebrated 50 years in business in November, and we visited its newest franchise location for an early lunch on a recent Saturday.

New location, same favorites Barry Bagels had a presence downtown for several years in The Junction building at the corner of Summit and Jefferson, but in Spring 2021 the store moved to Imagination Station as part of the science center’s $11 million renovation that included construction of the KeyBank Discovery Theater.

With a public entrance off Summit Street, the new location offers better visibility for the downtown Barry Bagels, according to Tim Melroy, regional manager for the branch of Sodexo Catering Services that oversees food services for Imagination Station.

The “express” designation simply means the restaurant offers a scaled down version of the menu found at the bigger corporate locations, and they do not offer catering. All food is still made fresh on site, according to Melroy, including the bagels. “Even though we have a smaller, condensed menu, most of the popular items are available,” he noted.

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A bagel with a view The new Barry Bagels location is bright and modern, with high ceilings and countertop seating along two huge walls of windows that provide nice views of the river and downtown Toledo. My kids loved sitting on the tall stools to look out through the front windows where Summit intersects with Adams Street while they ate lunch. For those with younger children who might provide concerns about toppling off the high stools, the center of the restaurant also offers standard height tables and chairs.

Fast casual offerings Barry Bagels is a fast casual restaurant, where guests order at the counter before seating themselves. The employees were friendly, repeating our order back to us for accuracy several times.

The menu features a variety of deli sandwiches, extras such as potato salad and mac and cheese, breakfast sandwiches known as “eggels” and bagels with cream cheese. Most deli sandwiches cost around $8, with an option to “junior size” your selection (subtract $1.25). While the regular menu already offers plenty of crowd pleasers, there is also a kids menu with five choices, each of which comes with a juice box and chips ($5.45-$6.45). For the littlest eaters, a bagel with butter ($2.10) also is a safe choice that won’t break the bank. Soups are available Monday through Friday, but not on Saturdays due to reduced operating hours.

My oldest son ordered the pizza bagel, a classic I fondly remember from frequent visits to the old Westgate location of the bagel deli as a child. A thick layer of melted mozzarella covered the tomato sauce and pepperoni, and he declared that it tasted just like pizza.

My daughter had high praise for her lunch of chicken tenders and Miss Vickie’s jalapeño kettle-cooked potato chips, which she said weren’t overly spicy.

Barry Bagels Express at Imagination Station features countertop seating along two huge walls of windows that provide views of the river and downtown Toledo.

My other son ordered the bagel dog, which is served nestled inside a customshaped bagel. If you have a picky eater, be advised that the bagel “bun” comes topped with a generous portion of poppy seeds. My son also said the hot dog was a bit chewy, so he might like to try something different next time.

The BLT I ordered on a honey wheat bagel featured crisp, fresh bacon piled high, and was delicious and filling. My husband opted for the roasted turkey on a plain bagel, topped with cheddar, lettuce, tomato and pickle. As a person who is suspicious of any menu boasting saucy sandwiches, he appreciated that he was able to customize his selection with his choice of toppings (hold the mayo).

• January/February 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

Beverage options include soft drinks and fresh Caribou Coffee. An assortment of cookies, cakes and yogurt parfaits are also available to accompany your meal.

Bottom line We were in and out of Barry Bagels in less than 30 minutes, and our bill for a family of five came to $42 for lunch.

While we didn’t visit the science museum that day, it’s great to know there is a fresh, fast and affordable dining option available there, even if you just need a quick bagel snack for an exhausted kid and a coffee for a tired parent after a visit highlighting play and discovery.

Google 4.2 out of 5 with 53 reviews

CALENDAR January TUESDAY 1.3 Early (3-4 year olds) CON’TStages FROM PG 29 Before Christmas - Join the JoinLights Children’s Theater Workshop for a monthly Toledo Zoo in the opening of their annual Before Christmas. 3-8pm. Adults dropLights inKids class.

Explore January’s theme, Sweet $21, 2-11 $18, Seniors 60+ are THURSDAY 2 free. 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-4040.

A Christmas Carol- Come see the Dreams, with songs, crafts, stories and puppets. toledozoo.org timeless tale of redemption with Ebenezer Scrooge at the Toledo Repertoire Theatre, FRIDAY 26 Classes are free and donations are a show that has appreciatbeen a holiday tradition Pictures with Santa and Mrs. for more than 30 years. 8pm. $19.75+. ed. 4-4:45pm.

Collingwood Arts10thCenter, 2413 16 West St. 419-243-9277.

Claus at Duke FarmWith the holitoledorep.org days upon us, one of the best ways to get into the spirit is Blvd. to get a picture with Collingwood ctwtoledo.org Free FRIDAY 3 the man himself! Capture a photo with

DEC

Mr. and Mrs. Claus in a new, fun environment! 11am. 44 W. Samaria Rd. Temperance, MI. Free

Trans-Siberian Orchestra- The Trans-Siberian Orchestra is back! And just in time to celebrate 25 years of Christmas Eve and other stories! 4pm and 8pm. $69.50+. Huntington Center 500 Jefferson Avenue. 419-255-3300. transsiberian.com

tions, two big shopping days. Saturday Nov. 27, 9am-4pm and Sunday Nov.

17th Annual ArtsX- Visit this holiday showcase to interact with and imagine

WEDNESDAY 1.4 SUNDAY 28 Lego Freeplay Toledo Choral Society presents Handel’s Messiah. The longstanding Practice your engineering skills and put your area tradition returns with a live concert 3 accompanied by orchestra, harpsichord creativity this fun FRIDAY building program and organ.to $25.work 4:30pm. in St. Paul’s Singalong Movie Night: The Lutheran Church, 428 N. Erie St. Also Muppet Christmas Carol- The featuring LEGOs K’Nex geared towards 7pm, Friday, December 3 and at St. Joan of holidays are here! View a classic holiArc Catholic Parish, 5856 Heatherdowns day movie, and sing along if you’d like! toledochoralsociety.org 6-10Blvd.year olds. 3:30-4:30pm.

Popcorn Sanger and snacks willBranch be available to purchase as well! 6:30-9pm. 3114 The Toledo Craftsman’s Guild Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. toledolibrary.

Lagrange St. 419-214-9025. ohiotheatretoledo.org Free Crafts for Christmas - A winter org spectacular Free showplace of fine handmade SATURDAY 4 juried crafts, gifts, and holiday decora-

28, 11am-4pm. 1.5 Lucas County Rec Center, the power and beauty of art! From perforTHURSDAY 2901 Key St., Maumee. Free mances to art sales, this event has it all!

5pm. 1001 E Wooster St. Bowling Green.

Cocoa & Canvas 419-371-8171. Free Learn about the flora and fauna that call our Metroparks home, and then learn how to paint them! They’ll provide step-by-step instruction, plenty of time to be creative, and a warm cup of hot cocoa. Fun for ages 10 and up. $15.

5:30-7:30pm. Brookwood Metropark, 5604 Swan Creek Dr. metroparkstoledo.com

SATURDAY 1.7 Archery & Fireside S’mores Shake off the winter blues with a fun afternoon of archery and warm s’mores! Try out archery for the first time, or the first time in a long time, with the instruction and guidance of Metroparks staff. $6. 1-2:30pm. Pearson Metropark, 761 Lallendorf Rd., Oregon. Metroparkstoledo.com When it’s cold...

HAERIAN

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LUDWIG

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SIMON

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THURSDAY 1.12 Youth Be Heard! Listening Session Join the City of Toledo for a series of listening sessions with Toledo youth. The focus on how youth can grow into fulfilled adults who want to live, work, and raise families in Toledo. Registration is required. 4:306pm. Lagrange Branch Library, 3422 Lagrange St. toledo.oh.gov Free FRIDAY 1.13 on the Road Shipshewana This Monroe, MI gift, food and craft show is an excellent opportunity to get your Wild Lights Weekend holiday shopping done, all while supporting local vendors. Unique gifts and delicious food abound atcoming this event where, one of the first 200with guests Celebrate the ofif you thearenew year to enter, you get $10 worth of Shipshebucks to spend! $5 entry fee. Saturday, November 6.

9am-6pm.

Sunday, November 7. 10am-5pm.

Monroe County wildlife and holiday lights!

Life-size animal Fairgrounds, 3775 S. Custer Rd., Monroe, MI. 269-979-8888. Get a $1 off statues are adorned with twinkle and coupon at shipshewanaontheroad.com color, lighting up the cool winter nights.

Bedford Blizzard Fest 5-8pm. Also on Saturday, January 14 and This epic holiday event has it all: Christmas Sunday, January 15.

W.W. Knight Nature movie showings, hot cocoa, an ice skating rink, horse and carriage and Olaf on a JeepPreserve, 29530 White Rd., rides, Perrysburg. turned-snow-generator. What more could you for? Blizzard Fest basically takes everything wcparks.org Free ask you love about winter festivities and pulls them all into the lineup for this show stopping event. 3-9pm. Saturday, December 11. 9144

Carbohydrate Catastrophe (An AdvenLewis Ave., Temperance, MI. facebook.com/ bedfordblizzardfest ture in Non Sequitur) A Children’s Theater Workshop ensemble 10-12 year old performance. If the multiAnnual Tree Lighting Event- If you’re Maumee Valley Historical Society looking to get into the Christmas spirit, Antiqueprobably Show & Sale- The verse really is real,treeitfes-would beAnnual a lot look no further!

See the Christmas Maumee Valley Historical Society Antique tooned with twinkling lights. 5pm. 6925 Show & Sale. let $8. 10am-5pm.

Also more St., random us11am-4pm. believe.

Providence Whitehouse. than 419-877-the movies Sunday, December 5, 7315 5383. whitehouseoh.gov Free Championship Dr. Perrysburg. 248-425Welcome to Carbohydrate Catastrophe, a 2868. wolcotthouse.org.

BG Philharmonia Holiday Concertmultiverse adventure with the villainous Sophie, Hear live holiday music at BGSU! The 16th Annual Holiday Crafting BG Philharmonia will present a holiday Wishes for Make-A-WishPerusein the concert in conjunction with ArtsX. 4pm. whose potato experiment punches a hole work of crafters and vendors from near 1001 E Wooster St. Bowling Green. 419and far as they come together to sell their 371-8171.

Free the multiverse and disrupts See wares atEVERYTHING! this holiday show. Also live perpictures with Santa, and more!

Christmas at the website forPeristyletimes. Ohioformances, Theatre, Lagrange 10am-4pm.

290131 Key12 St. Maumee.

419Celebrate the sounds of the season! Join 494-5247. toledo.com Free the Toledo Symphony and Santa himself St.thisctwtoledo.org for festive holiday tradition! 3pm.

L A M B E RT V I L L E

Hans Christian Andersen’s well known tale with a menagerie of mischievous animals, inventive physicality and live music and songs that quack and trill. This charming production plays with the importance of identity and self-worth as leads a journey to discover inner beauty. $18. Doors open at 1pm. Sunday, January 15.

The Valentine Theatre, 410 N. Superior St. valentinetheatre.com

Escape the Schoolhouse You’ve done it now! You and your classmates broke the teacher’s favorite porcelain lamp while you were goofing off in the classroom.

Consequently, the entire class has been locked in the schoolhouse while the teacher rounds up everyone’s parents to discover and punish the culprits. Can you escape before the teacher returns? $15. 7:30-8:30pm. Friday, January 27 and Saturday, January 28, 2-3pm.

Wildwood Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. toledometropark.com

School’s Off, Parks On! Mini-Camps Lively Leadership Mini-Camp

School is off on Presidents’ Day, but that does not mean you can’t have a fun-filled day learning to be leaders in the park!

Join the Metroparks team for a day of fun, age-appropriate camp activities themed around being leaders in protecting, conserving and advocating for the environment. $28. 9am2pm. Monday, February 20. Wildwood Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. metroparkstoledo.com

MORE EVENTS ONLINE AT TOLEDOPARENT.COM

JUST POINT YOUR CAMERA!

Wh a warm smile Code IT, Jr.share M AU M E E

The Ugly Duckling

$10+. 2445 Monroe St. 419-246-8000. toledosymphony.com

HANSEN

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4413 Keystone of coding 7928 Secor Rd.with • P.O. Box 860 6407 Monroe St. Learn the basics kid-friendly Maumee, OH 43537 Lambertville, MI 48144 Sylvania, OH 43560 419.882.1017 software419.887.1247 and hands-on 734.854.6221 activities. Grades K-3. www.perfectbraces.com 2-3pm. Heatherdowns Branch Library, 3625 Glanzman Rd. toledolibrary.org Free 30

The Gretchen A. Zyndorf Family Series

• November/December • www.toledoparent.com

MONDAY 1.9 Hyper-Film Challenge In this fast-paced video workshop, teens 11-17 will experiment with the basics of filmmaking and acting. Using iPads and various editing apps, students will make films together within 60 minutes. 3:30-4:30. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary.org. Free TUESDAY 1.10 Youth Be Heard! Listening Session Join the City of Toledo for a series of listening sessions with Toledo youth. The focus on how youth can grow into fulfilled adults who want to live, work and raise families in Toledo.

Registration is required. 4:30-6pm. Birmingham Branch Library, 203 Paine Ave. toledo. oh.gov Free WEDNESDAY 1.11 Nintendo Switch Party Teens and Tweens game night! Come and play the Nintendo Switch with friends. 6-8pm.

Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Rd., Maumee. toledolibrary.org Free Inclusive Archery Metroparks and the Ability Center of Greater Toledo are partnering for a fun evening of indoor archery! All equipment provided. Ages 8 and up. $4. 7-8pm. The Ability Center of Greater Toledo, 5605 Monroe St. metroparkstoledo.com

SATURDAY 1.14 Winter Bird Count for Kids Learn about winter bird counts and their importance to studying bird populations. The group will search out and count as many birds as possible. Snacks and warm drinks will be provided. 10-11:30am. W.W. Knight Nature Preserve, 29530 White Rd., Perrysburg. wcparks.org Free

Visit our Showroom

MONDAY 1.16 School’s Off, Parks On! Mini-Camps: Hopeful Heroes Mini-Camp On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, school is out for a day of remembrance of this important, world-changing hero. What better way to celebrate than a day full of fun, age-appropriate camp activities focused on finding his inspiring messages of diversity, celebrating differences and hope in nature? $28. 9am-2pm.

Wildwood Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. metroparkstoledo.com TUESDAY 1.17 Penguins vs. Polar Bears Celebrate Winter by choosing your animal team and making a mask, then make a snowball launcher for an indoor match up to see which team is victorious! 3-4pm. Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. toledolibrary.org Free

Free Quotes & Estimates

7944 W Central Ave Ste 1, Toledo, Ohio 43617 (419) 841-2628 | www.distinctivedesignstoragesolutions.com

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2023 •

25

BG Philharmonia will present a holiday concert in conjunction with ArtsX. 4pm.

1001 E Wooster St. Bowling Green. 419371-8171. Free Christmas at the PeristyleCelebrate the sounds of the season! Join the Toledo Symphony and Santa himself for this festive holiday tradition! 3pm. $10+. 2445 Monroe St. 419-246-8000. toledosymphony.com

Cont’d from P.25 TUESDAY 1.17 Youth Be Heard! Listening Session Join the City of Toledo for a series of listening sessions with Toledo youth. The focus how ..onwant cold. it’sadults When youth can grow into fulfilled who ile sm rm wa e Lafamilies sharraise to live, work, and in Toledo.S Y LVA N I A M AU M E E A M B E RT V I L L E Registration is required.

4413 Keystone 7928 4:30-6pm.

Secor Rd. • P.O. Box 860Reynolds 6407 Monroe St. Maumee, OH 43537 MI 48144 Sylvania, OH 43560 Corner Branch Library,Lambertville, 4833 Dorr St. toledo.

419.887.1247 734.854.6221 419.882.1017 www.perfectbraces.com oh.gov Free HAERIAN

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SATURDAY 1.21 Sibshops Sibshops are for 8–15 year old typically developing brothers and sisters who have a brother or sister with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or special needs. They provide opportunities for brothers and sisters to obtain peer support and education within a recreational context. 10am-1pm. Alternate Learning Center, 3939 Wrenwood. Asno.org Adventure Kids Club: Winter Animals This program focuses on how animals survive and thrive in the winter while honing our sleuth skills looking for evidence of the animals that call the Metroparks their home. Enjoy a scrumptious campfire hotdog and mac’n cheese lunch. $15. 10am-1pm. Wildwood Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. metroparkstoledo.com KeyBank Pops: Mary Poppins (Film with Orchestra) Full of exuberant favorites like ”A Spoonful of Sugar” and ”Chim Chim Cher-ee,” this magical Disney classic gave audiences some of the most cherished songs of all time. The Toledo Symphony performs the supercalifragilistic soundtrack with the entire film! $21.50-$64.

4-6pm. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. toledosymphony.com

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Wishes for Make-A-Wish- Peruse the work of crafters and vendors from near and far as they come together to sell their wares at this holiday show. Also live performances, pictures with Santa, and more!

10am-4pm. 2901 Key St. Maumee. 419494-5247. toledo.com Free

SUNDAY 1.22 Ohio School Fair 2023 It’s National School Choice Week in Ohio.

Discover your local school options along with food, music, raffle prizes, face painting and more! 12:30-3pm. Lourdes University, 6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania. Free MONDAY 1.23 Youth Be Heard! Listening Session Join the City of Toledo for a series of listening sessions with Toledo youth. The focus on how youth can grow into fulfilled adults who want to live, work and raise families in Toledo.

Registration is required. 4-5:30pm. West Toledo Branch Library, 4833 Dorr St. toledo. oh.gov Free TUESDAY 1.24 Montessori Philosophy: Planes of Development Maria Montessori based her educational philosophy on the idea that children develop through a series of four planes. Learn about the four planes from West Side’s Head of School, Jenn Schoepf. 8:45-9:45am and 5-6pm. West Side Montessori, 7115 W. Bancroft St. Free

Youth Be Heard! Listening Session Join the City of Toledo for a series of listening sessions with Toledo youth. The focus on how youth can grow into fulfilled adults who want to live, work and raise families in Toledo.

Registration is required. 4-5:30pm. South Branch Library, 1736 Broadway St. toledo. oh.gov Free THURSDAY 1.26 St. Ursula Academy - The Phantom of the Opera St. Ursula Academy’s student presentation of “The Phantom of the Opera” takes place on the Valentine Main Stage. $18. 8pm. Also runs Friday, Jan. 27 and Saturday, Jan. 28 at 8pm and Sunday, Jan. 29 at 2pm. The Valentine Theatre, 410 N. Superior St. valentinetheatre.com FRIDAY 1.27 Library Playdate Children, and their favorite grown-up, are welcomed to the Library, a fun and exciting place to play and build early literacy skills. 1011am. Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Rd., Maumee. toledolibrary.org Free SATURDAY 1.28 Milk & Cookies An open discussion for girls ages 7-11 to talk about what’s going on with them over cookies and milk. Register on Eventbrite. Noon-2pm.

The Onyx Cafe, 27 Broadway St. SUNDAY 1.29 Nature Scavenger Hunt Use the power of magnetism to navigate around the winter wonderland of Wildwood Metropark! Find nature clues to solve riddles and puzzles along the way. $3. 2-4pm.

Wildwood Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. metroparkstoledo.com

• January/February 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

February THURSDAY 2.2 Tinkering Takeover Enjoy interactive science and engineering with a spark of creativity during Imagination Station’s Tinkering Takeover. 3-5pm. Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. toledolibrary.org Free FRIDAY 2.3 Preschool Learn & Play STEM for little ones! We’ll break out the crafts, toys, and more for preschoolers to learn while playing, including reading a few fun stories.

Each Friday in February. 10-11am. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary. com Free SATURDAY 2.4 Salt Dough Valentine Ornament Get ready for Valentine’s Day by making some fancy ornaments to give to the special people in your life. 2-3pm. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary.com Free MONDAY 2.6 Code Your World with 4-H From coding to unplugged activities 4-H makes computer science easy and fun! Tweens and Teens will learn basic coding skills and acquire life skills using STEM education. Runs each Monday through March 13. 4-5pm.

Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary.com Free

TUESDAY 2.7 Early Stages (3-4 year olds) Join Children’s Theater Workshop for a monthly drop in class. Explore February’s theme, Best Friends Forever, with songs, crafts, stories and puppets. Classes are free and donations are appreciated. 4-4:45pm. Collingwood Arts Center, 2413 Collingwood Blvd. ctwtoledo. org Free SATURDAY 2.11 Super Bowl Snacks Who will win Super Bowl LVII? To prepare for the big game, make some tasty tailgate snacks to share with your friends and family! 2-3pm.

Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary.com Free THURSDAY 2.16 Pop-Up STEAM Lab Every third Thursday of the month we’ll explore various ideas and discoveries in the world of STEAM while engaging in a fun project!

Geared towards ages 11-17. 6-7pm. Sanger Branch Library, 3030 W. Central Ave. toledolibrary.org FRIDAY 2.17 Silver Screen Classic Film: The Sound of Music The tuneful, heartwarming story, it is based on the real life story of the Von Trapp Family singers, one of the world’s best-known concert groups in the era immediately preceding World War II. $5. 7:30pm. The Valentine Theatre, 410 N. Superior St. valentinetheatre.com SATURDAY 2.18 The Magic School Bus When the class gets lost on the way to the planetarium, Ms. Frizzle saves the day by blasting into outer space for an epic interplanetary field trip! $20. 2pm. The Valentine Theatre, 410 N. Superior St. valentinetheatre. com

Hot Wheels Derby Car fans, start your engines! Children’s Library is hosting a Hot Wheels Derby where kids will build the ultimate track to race with. 2-3pm.

Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary.com Free SATURDAY 2.25 Sibshops Sibshops are for 8–15 year old typically developing brothers and sisters who have a brother or sister with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or special needs. They provide opportunities for brothers and sisters to obtain peer support and education within a recreational context. 10am-1pm. Alternate Learning Center, 3939 Wrenwood. Asno.org Milk & Cookies An open discussion for girls ages 7-11 to talk about what’s going on with them over cookies andFROM milk.

CON’T PG 29 Register on Eventbrite. Noon-2pm.

Lights Join the The Before OnyxChristmas Cafe, -27 Broadway St. Toledo Zoo in the opening of their annual

DEC

Lights Before Christmas. 3-8pm. Adults $21, Kids 2-11 $18, Seniors 60+ are free. 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-4040. toledozoo.org

THURSDAY 2

A Christmas Carol- Come see the MONDAY 2.27 timeless tale of redemption with Ebenezer Scrooge at the Toledo Repertoire Theatre, Monday Funday FRIDAY 26 a show that has been a holiday tradition Pictures with Santa and Mrs. for more than 30 years. $19.75+.

Get rid of those Monday blues with art,8pm. craft16 West 10th St. 419-243-9277.

Claus at Duke Farm- With the holitoledorep.org days us, one of the best movement ways to ing,upongames and in this hour of fun. get into the spirit is to get a picture with FRIDAY the 3 the man himself! Capture a photo with toward Activities are geared tween ages of Mr. and Mrs. Claus in a new, fun enviTrans-Siberian Orchestra- The ronment!

11am.

44younger W. Samaria Rd. 9-12, but and older kids are welcome Trans-Siberian Orchestra is back! And Temperance, MI. Free just in time to celebrate 25 years of too. 3-3:45pm. Sanger Branch Library, 3030 Christmas Eve and other stories!

4pm and SUNDAY 28 8pm. $69.50+. Huntington Center 500 W. Central Ave.presents toledolibrary.org Jefferson Avenue.Free 419-255-3300. transToledo Choral Society Handel’s Messiah. The longstanding area tradition returns with a live concert accompanied by orchestra, harpsichord and organ. $25. 4:30pm. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 428 N. Erie St. Also 7pm, Friday, December 3 at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Parish, 5856 Heatherdowns Blvd. toledochoralsociety.org

siberian.com

FRIDAY 3 Young, Gifted and Black Singalong Movie Night: The Muppetentrepreneurs Christmas Carol- The Come learn from local young holidays are here! View a classic holiday movie, and sing along if you’d Tre’Shawn Pittard Lawn Service Business; Me-like!

Popcorn and snacks will be available to purchase as well! 6:30-9pm.

3114 lissa Penix and SaRiyah Kerns Published Poets; The Toledo Craftsman’s Guild Lagrange St. 419-214-9025. ohiotheatreCrafts Christmas - A winter Heartoledo.org andfor Leila’s Promise. aboutFree Ohio Unity spectacular showplace of fine handmade SATURDAY 4 juried crafts, gifts, and holiday decoraCoalition’s Brown Women Roundtable Take tions, two big shopping days. Saturday 17th Annual ArtsX- Visit this holiday Nov. 27,the 9am-4pm and Sunday Nov. showcase to interact with and imagine It to Top Entrepreneurship Challenge and 28, 11am-4pm. Lucas County Rec Center, the power and beauty of art! From perfor2901 Key St., Maumee.

Free to art sales, thisSmall event has it all! available resources from mances the library’s 5pm. 1001 E Wooster St. Bowling Green.

419-371-8171.

Free Business and Nonprofit Services department.

4-5:30pm. Lagrange Branch Library, 3422 Lagrange St. toledolibrary.org Free

marketplace ANNOUNCEMENTS Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-866-482-1576 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ macnet Donate your car, truck, boat, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-877-3270686 today!

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Limited Time Offer - $500 Discount + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-855-3384807 Shipshewana on the Road This Monroe, MI gift, food and craft show is an excellent opportunity to get your holiday shopping done, all while supporting local vendors. Unique gifts and delicious food abound at this event where, if you are one of the first 200 guests to enter, you get $10 worth of Shipshebucks to spend! $5 entry fee. Saturday, November 6. 9am-6pm. Sunday, November 7. 10am-5pm. Monroe County Fairgrounds, 3775 S. Custer Rd., Monroe, MI. 269-979-8888. Get a $1 off coupon at shipshewanaontheroad.com

AUTO INSURANCE

Looking for auto insurance? Find great deals on the right auto insurance to suit your needs. Call today for a free quote! 866-924-2397 Bedford Blizzard Fest This epic holiday event has it all: Christmas movie showings, hot cocoa, an ice skating rink, horse and carriage rides, and Olaf on a Jeepturned-snow-generator. What more could you ask for? Blizzard Fest basically takes everything you love about winter festivities and pulls them all into the lineup for this show stopping event. 3-9pm. Saturday, December 11. 9144 Lewis Ave., Temperance, MI. facebook.com/ bedfordblizzardfest

GENERAL SERVICES/ MISCELLANEOUS

Internet & WiFi Starts at $49 Call us Today to Get Started. Find High Speed Internet with Fiber Optic Technology No Credit Check, No SSN Required. Call us Today! 866-396-0515 Annual Tree Lighting Event- If you’re looking to get into the Christmas spirit, look no further! See the Christmas tree festooned with twinkling lights. 5pm. 6925 Providence St., Whitehouse. 419-8775383. whitehouseoh.gov Free

Maumee Valley Historical Society Antique Show & Sale- The Annual Maumee Valley Historical Society Antique Show & Sale. $8. 10am-5pm. Also Sunday, December 5, 11am-4pm. 7315 Championship Dr. Perrysburg. 248-4252868. wolcotthouse.org.

GIFTS/MISC.

Let the nominations begin! shWhareena it’wsarcomld.sm.. ile HAERIAN

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Switch and save up to $250/year on your BG Philharmonia Holiday Concerttalk, textmusic and data.

Hear live holiday at BGSU! The No contract and no hid16th Annual Holiday Crafting BG Philharmonia will present a holiday den infees.

Unlimited talk and textfor with flexible Peruse datathe Wishes Make-A-Wishconcert conjunction with ArtsX. 4pm. work of crafters and vendors from near 1001 E Wooster St. Bowlingnationwide Green. 419plans.

Premium coverage. and far as they come100% together toU.S. sell their 371-8171. Free wares at this holiday show. – Alsoget live perbased customer service. Limited time offer formances, pictures with Santa, and more!

Christmas at the Peristyle$50 off on any new account.

Use code GIFT50.

10am-4pm.

2901 Key St. Maumee.

419Celebrate the sounds of the season! Join toledo.com Free the Toledo Symphony and Santa himselfcall 494-5247.

For more information, 1-888-684-1 169 for this festive holiday tradition! 3pm. $10+. 2445 Monroe St. 419-246-8000. toledosymphony.com

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S Y LVA N I A

4413 Keystone Maumee, OH 43537 419.887.1247

7928 Secor Rd. • P.O. Box 860 Lambertville, MI 48144 734.854.6221

6407 Monroe St. Sylvania, OH 43560 419.882.1017

www.perfectbraces.com 30

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• November/December • www.toledoparent.com

FAMIL Y FAVORITES

2022

FAVORITES GO TO

toledoparent.com www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2023 •

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An individualized path that can lead to a career AND a college degree.

ENROLL NOW!

FOR MORE INFORMATION Partering local employers and industry Magnetwith Schools As we VISIT embark on a school year unlike any other in TPS.ORG eonsite g ellSchools oinstruction C yoffers lraaEnumber oand dofemagnet lo T schols that are open sulP ti for training Toledo Public our history, we’re thankful for the support and active

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telecommunications, urban learning. The University of to the police department for do Fire & Rescue Division partners with TPS for this p students who are juniors. after 32 years of service, duoragriculture PSPT/moc.reand ttiwTdozens dof uorPSPT/moc.koobecaF ,trcorrecoffe dednuf-etats sihtother hguofields. rhT stneduts SPT ,loohgcrsoh.sgpiht ni elihW Seniors focus on concluding as a Fire Intions and learning vestigator, Tiggs explains, dna loabout ohcsthe hgih htob nrae stneduts wen fo snoillim eht rof eraperp nac CET“Having ,mulugone cirruthrough c perp egelloc sti htiW judicial system. “It's a proosoflahands-on yehT .tsoc on ta tiderc egelloc ni elbaliava won snoitisop delliks gram with a lot gnboth inrathe el fire rehacademy gih rof and stneduts seidaer experience. Students the police academy, I was ,ecnelearn irepxe egelloc eht otni esae otua ,ecneics lamina ,gnitnuocca MMvery ETSinterested ruO .srein erthe ac TPS yrutnec ts12 dna how to dust for fingerprints, reh,tgroihinterroeogrh eTlihw siichenrp olonhcet ffeno detdrantusf-deate aths asihgtnhitgtu stnedu,gtsnSinPiTh,cloaom hcnsohig i e,lyihgW process evidence, enicidPublic em nSafety o ylirprogram amirp sand esucof margorp o d e l o T f o y t i s r e v i n U e h T . g n i n r a e l n a b r u , s n o i t a c i n u m gate suspects wanted to help.” dnand a loanalyze ohcs hgih htob nrae stneduts wen fo snoillim eht rof eraperp nacmocelet ,EsnT o,m isuselwho p htelageh CStudents ufcoirattend ruec rpaecthe rp lloechst idhntiaW the cause and effect of .omslaarygeohrTp.tssio hct roonf tSaPtTidhetrciwegsreellnotcrap ni elbaliava wfoonssnneozio tid sod pndaelelirkustlucirga aprogram cidgenM rePl introduced froehtgroihprpouftostenhetdu gtnsiyseoijdnaeer criminal behavior,”Tiggs ino raare .erutuf eht gnicarbme era sloohcS cilbuP odeloT , e c n e i r e p x e e g e l l o c e h t o t n i e s a e o t u a , e c n e i c s l a m i n a , g n i tnu.oscdclaefi rehto the fire department, MM E.To SdreulO rtaicsryerdepartment, dn a oT.sfroeeypolice vuitnnUeceths1t 2dn acontinues. eivho idoi,ss ks,ygeollb ahucleat v gnipole Although PS419 is new sheriff department, Lucas County 911 rehitghas ih nalready o trats daeh a gnitteg elishn woitpo gniticxe g,n gnirin cacmsn iclelrip on en icid em no yliThe ramprogram irp sesufocuses cof margorgarnered p the attention of many stuand corrections. odeloT fo ytisrevinU ehT .gninrael .ndalbrrouw,sngonitiagcinnuam hm c oacenlei tevirht ot ,snoisstudents seforp eand rac teaching htlaeh eht dndents, a making Tiggs confident that it on mentoring . m a r g o r p s i h t r o f S P T h t i w s r e n t r a p f o s n e z o d d n a e r u tlucirga Matriculating to a four-year college right after high them Guest acabout ideMthose orP fdepartments. o troppus eh t gniyojnwill e lead participants to prosperous TOLEDO EARLY COLLEGE d e d n i m r e e r a c r o f s h t a p g n i d u l c n i . s d l e fi,s reehc toiohc yna and fulfilling careers.

“My biggest joy speakers from the fire and police departWest Bancroft St. school path for some young Retired fire inspector Andre Tiggs 2801 .odmay eloT fnot o ytibe srevthe inUbest eht dcareer nisa recruiting Chief Danny Brown-Martinez for police and fire…I’m ments regularly share their experienc419-671-4800 .noStudents itacugraduate de ewith geanllaverage oc aofg55ncollege iusrup esoht d people.

There are many otherlooking career pathsto that to AEROSPACE & NATURAL SCIENCE forward seeinglead my students es. “The students are certified in CPR credits, which means they can enter college or ACADEMY OF TOLEDO succeed and be hired in these serving during their junior year and can also university as a junior. lucrative, satisfying jobs. Toledo Public Schools has teamed 11600 West Airport Service Road professions.” earn credentials for handling hazardous Swanton, OH 43558 up with variousis also regional materials.

The program college companies and organizations to TOLEDO PRE-MED AND 419-671-1700 Retired fire inspector Andre Tiggs Chief Danny Brown-Martinez Programs in aviation maintenance, animal science, HEALTH SCIENCE ACADEMY

TO egelloLET’S C ylraE odeloGET T sulP tiderC egelloC alternatives to college )CET( loohWORK! cS hgiH ToledotoPublic Schools offerafter career Matriculating a four-year college right high school may not alternatives be the best careertopath for some young college Toledo Public Schools offer career

people. There are many other career paths that lead to lucrative, satisfying jobs. Toledo Public Schools has teamed up with various regional companies and organizations to create several job training programs in area high schools in a variety of career fields, including public safety, machining, carpentry, and more.

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Brown-Martinez as being the main orchestrator of PS419, create several job training programs in area high schools urban agriculture, wildlife and fisheries, with though Chief Brown-Martinez is quick to emphasize the This four-year academy focuses on Biomedical partners Delta Airlines, Interjet West, The Ohio Science, Pre-Medicine, Pre-Nursing, and all Health in a variety of career fields, including public safety, Department of Natural and Toledo program is aResources group effort. Science fields.

Students will have the opportunity Metroparks.

PS419 SENIOR PS419and more.

Brown-Martinez as being the main ofentry-level PS419, uponorchestrator graduation to begin an career in machining,AT carpentry, “This program wouldn’t have been without the medical field possible or choose to attend college and the EMPRESS HUGHLEY JONES LEADERSHIP ACADEMY Chief Brown-Martinez is further quick emphasize the theirto education.

What it is: A public safety educational program, founded though collective OF BUSINESS input from (TPS Superintendent) Dr. Romules program is a group effort.

430 Nebraska Ave. mpress Hughley is currently Toledo Public Schools, Toledo TOLEDO TECHNOLOGY ACADEMY as aPS419 collaboration between 419-671-5400 Durant, Toledowouldn’t Chief of Police George Kral, Toledo a senior in the Toledo Public OF ENGINEERING program possible without the This“This 7th through 12th grade school provides ahave been 3301 Upton Avenue Police, Toledo Fire and Schools PS419 program atRescue, City of Toledo, and Owens college and career readiness curriculum, with a Fire Chief Brian the Mayor’s office, everyone What it is: A public safety educational program, founded collective 419-671-3900 input fromByrd, (TPS Superintendent) Dr.and Romules focus on business and administrative pathways.

Bowsher High School. During her TTA is a full career technology school for 7th Community College.

Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz first Bloomberg Financial Lab allows students to analyze sophomore and junior year, Empress at Owens Community College, ” said Brown-Martinez. as a collaboration between Toledo Public Schools, Toledo through 12th graders that’s well respected within Durant, Toledo Chief of Police George Kral, Toledo market data and earn a certification.

Toledo’s industrial community and across the state was interested in the becoming a firefighter announced program in his 2021 State of the City Police, Toledo Fire program and Rescue, City of Toledo, and Owens Fire “PS419 designed to introduce students to careers in ChiefisBrian Byrd, the Mayor’sof Ohio. office, and everyone and the inception of the PS419 address. (which began in the fallCollege. of 2021) came Community Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz first a technical program, like learning heating atsafety.

OwensIt’s Community College, ” saidjust Brown-Martinez. at just the right time. “When I was MARTIN LUTHER KING, announced the program in his 2021 State of the City admitted to the program I really enjoyed “PS419 is designed to introduce students to careers inJR. and air conditioning. ” Elementary ACADEMY FOR BOYS it and decided to stay here.”

With address.

Where: Bowsher High School 1300 Forestlearning Ave. Owens safety. a technical program, just like heating AllIt’s EMT certification is overseen by Community encouragement from her family, along Schools 419-671-4550 with the knowledge gained from the and air conditioning. ” College’s Center for Emergency Preparedness and the goal MARSHALL STEMM ACADEMY CHASE STEMM ACADEMY program, Empress is certain that she’s Where: Bowsher High School 415 Colburn Street Community All EMT certification is overseen by Owens 600 Bassett Street How it works: Retired fire inspector Andre Tiggs leads dream job is to work in the Toledo Fire made the right choice of a career to is to create a career pipeline from TPS to a career in Toledo 419-671-5700 419-671-6650 Department as an Emergency Medical pursue after she graduates.

College’s Center for Emergency Preparedness and the goal30 this program, which pairs students interested in public public safety. “I’ve worked with kids for more than (EMT) and to eventually According to Hughley, the Retired program isfire Technician MCKINLEY STEMM SCHOOL ESCUELA SMART ACADEMY How it works: inspector Andre Tiggs leads is617toWestern create TPS to aAve. career in Toledo Westland Ave. a career pipeline from3344 become certifiedworking as a paramedic. invaluable by providing students safety with a career andwith personal mentor in the years and this is a great way to419-671-3750 show them there are career 419-671-5550 thistoprogram, pairs students interested Hughley will be quickin topublic recommend a chance be mentoredwhich by members public safety.

“I’ve worked with kids for more than 30 field.

“The goal is that once these kids finish the program, PS419 to other students interested in of the Fire and Police departments. opportunities out there for them evenEND if they don’t go to safety with or a career and personal mentor working in the OLDthem WEST there ACADEMY GROVE PATTERSON ACADEMY years and this is a great way to show are career police and fire, explaining that, “The Hearing the stories work related 3131 Cambridge Street 3020 Marvin Ave. they’ll certified rightthese out kids of high school, ” said college. ” mentorships are valuable.

You meet field.be“The goalToledo isEMTs that once finish the program, experiences from actual officers 419-671-4700 419-671-3350 opportunities out there for them even if they don’t go to chiefs and go on fieldtrips has been inspiring, but a teacher like fire captains Tiggs, who Toledo chief Danny they’ll becredits certified EMTs rightbattalion out ofand high school, ” said

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college. ” STEMM ACADEMY HAWKINS

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Andre Tiggs has been what makes the program trulywho stand credits out. “Mr. Tiggs is a Tiggs, Toledo very good teacher. He helped us study for the firefighter test and even paid for us to take a practice test.” Empress’

28

with them. Those relationships are

and allow youDanny to keep in firevaluable battalion chief

5550 West Bancroft Street 419-671-1550

ENROLL NOW! VISIT VISIT TPS.ORG ENROLL NOW! TPS.ORG

FOR MORE INFORMATION • January/February 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

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