Toledo Parent: July/August 2023

JULY / AUGUST 2023

2022

FAMIL Y

FAVORITES P. 15

The Results are in...

Your votes counted!

A Guide to Toledo’s Inclusivity

This Year's Disability Friendly Award Winners

ng Up Baby Bringi P. 8

Local Maternity Resources P. 10

READY TO READ

HELPING KIDS READ! The Library’s Ready to Read team is here to support you and your child on their journey to becoming a great reader. Every child has their own pace and style of learning, and the Library offers one-to-one training sessions to help you best support your child. Call 419.259.5253 or scan the QR code below to schedule an appointment today!

Get started at home by building your child’s vocabulary: Building vocabulary is an essential EAmake DY TO reading skill and takes lots of practice. RTo READ the most of your reading time together, try some of these talking points before reading:

Waive registration fee of $129 Your $100 pre-enrollment deposit goes towards the 1st month’s program fee or workshop and saves your spot.

Priority Scheduling - this means you get first dibs on prime lessons and rehearsal times before the doors open.

RESERVE YOUR SPOT AT OUR BRAND NEW SCHOOL Be one of the first clients to enroll at School of Rock Perrysburg to get valuable perks.

HELPING KIDS READ!

What do you remember about the time we toledolibrary.org _____________________ (went to the park, 419.259.5253 visited grandma, played a game, or shopped at the store?)

Do you remember the book we read?

Do you remember that show we watched?

This story reminds me of that because __________________________.

This story is about _________________.

What do you know about ___________________?

What do you think we might read about?

Asking children to recall what they already know will help them recognize words as they read.

Come to a Library Storytime to build these skills!

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toledolibrary.org 419.259.5253

• July/August 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

Free merchandise - t-shirt, swag bag, access to the Method App, and more. *$25 Credit: to go towards cool new School of Rock swag, instruments or supplies of your choice.

3185 Chappel Dr, Perrysburg , OH 43551 | 567-698-7625 www.schoolofrock.com/locations/perrysburg

Toledo’s Award-Wining Parent Newspaper Volume 31  Issue 4  JULY/AUG 2023

ONLINE Road Trips from Toledo: Day Trips & Beyond

SCAN TO ENTER!

You don’t have to travel far to have a great time.

July/August

by Matthew Sackmann

Giveaway ay at Enter to win tot.dcom! toledoparen

Toledo Area Expert Offers Tips on Car Seat Safety There are many choices when it comes to car seats. How can parents be sure they choose the safest one?

By Mary Rose Kulczak

Babies Come First for Baby 1st Network

Baby 1st Network is a nonprofit working to connect families, caregivers and researchers with professional organizations in order to reduce infant mortality in Ohio and support families who have lost a child from SIDS.

by Andrew Kersten

Readers Sound Off What’s your favorite way to be treated on Mother’s Day?

A quiet day at home with the family - 47% Being taken out to eat - 21% Getting fresh flowers - 17% Receiving jewelry - 15%

MOST READ ONLINE 1 Toledo Area Summer Camp Guide for 2023 2 Is “Cocomelon” Harmful for Kids?

3 Rosaria’s on 3rd: Italian Classics & Coastal Cuisine in Perrysburg 4 6 Mother’s Day Brunch Spots 5 Toledo Area Parks & Playground Roundup

Have you (or are you planning to) take a summer road trip?

Yes 44%

No

19%

Maybe 37%

Summer fun is definitely the theme of this month’s giveaway, featuring a dishwashersafe, 50 percent recycled materials Nalgene Outdoor water bottle, a Big Dill Pickleball paddle ($79.99 value) to jump on that fun bandwagon, a FlexScreen (a flexible window screen) to protect against bugs, two Mosaic the Label Mini Jelly Beach Bags and other goodies! Enter to win now through August 10 at toledoparent.com by providing your email address.

Congratulations to the winner of our May/June giveaway,

Jean Schooley!

www.toledoparent.com • July/August 2023 •

3

October 23 November 21

ASSIGNMENT EDITOR Erin Holden

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

KIDS ASTROLOGY

letter from the EDITOR

STAFF WRITER

ARIES TAURUS AdamsJeff GEMINI CANC Street Media Co. This month brings out the passion and creMcGinnis

by Kimmie Rose ativity in your mysterious and sometimes (mcginnis@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Did you attend summer SEEING MY NIECES WHEN THEYwhere?

OPEN PRESENTS! camp as aSMILE child?

If so, quiet Scorpio child. Do you ever get that DIGITAL MEDIA feeling that inside that mysterious mind is Publisher/Editor in Chief Light Collette JacobsNate (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) Exploring our list of family favorites a creative genius? This is the blessing of NO. TRENTON, OHIO WASN’T A MECCA OF CAMP (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) OPPORTUNITIES. ICEBALL FIGHTS. being the parent of a Scorpio. Get closer It finally feels like summer, Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer as I’m now writing this letter to them by watching them discover their MarkMARKETING I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA CAMP STORER. in my office with the hum of Margot Jacobs talents through experience. our window-unit air condiLEO LIBRA SCOR VIRGO(margot@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Editorial WRAPPING tioner (installed today) in the This month, Scorpios will illuminate their inAssignment PRESENTS. Editor: Erin Holden (toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com) background. I don’t know (July 23-August 22) YES! I CONTRIBUTING WENT TO A SLEEPAWAY CHURCH CAMP EVERY ner passions.

Here’s a suggestion: pick up WRITERS SUMMER, AND I ALSO ATTENDING BAND CAMPS about you all, but my sumHappy birthday to your precious little Leo Erin Holden, Amelia Roberts, Taylor Viers, Autumn (NO JOKES, 90S KIDS). an art canvas, colored pencils, anas your mer is completely booked. child! This will be an stencils, interesting time Copy Manager: Vasquez, Jeff McGinnis, Kimmie Rose, Kiera Jacobs, Riley Runnels (riley@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Aside from a very long sumchild paint, will be bursting with energy. apron, a table cover, brushes andHave a a Julie YES! MY HIGHMary SCHOOL’S STUDENT COUNCIL WENT TO Alleman, Pompa, Rose Kulczak, Lisa n I start tomer solidify plans for family visits.

Who road trip, I fully plan on birthday party that gets the energy moving CAMP STORER FOR BONDING. Kimberly Feldkamp, Emily Remaklus, Laurie Bertke, sponge.

Put the tablecloth over your table, taking our littlewe guybe to making visit Contributing Writers: so they can sleep well. This is a great time g at our house?

Will an 18-hour Erin Schoen Marsh Laurie Bertke, Erin Holden, Olivia Johnson, Sneha some of the places and activiand set up a creative space for sothem to exfor physical activity, a birthday party that Kamath, Andrew Kersten, Kim Krieger, Mary Rose Christmas? year all of those joyous Kulczak, PennyAdvertising Tullis Meeker, Julie Pompa, Emily tiesLast that won our threw 2022 Family involves tossing the balloons, tug-of-war or press themselves.

Scorpio children love to Remaklus, Kimmie Rose, Riley Runnells Favorites!

In the past,traditions Townes of disconnect.

Holiday went by the anything physical will help your child feel full SALES explore new things.

Tell them that weather you just and I have worked through Advertising of joy.

WIth the beautiful in Northwest SAGITTARIUS CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISC tay safe and make it through without engaging (sbell@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Suzanne Bell Sales Coordinator lists of local places to visit like Ohio, there aredrawing, so many outdoorsy activities wanted to have some fun paintLibby CassidyFOOD FOR FAMILY MEALS Townes, Matt romand I enjoying the Crocodile Creek ride at the Fort PREPARING ALL THE FAVORITE me, it was aalllot watching bad theof Toledo Metroparks, all Christmas that you can do right now. Another suggestion (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Wayne Children’s Zoo. You’ll find this story in our online series, “ ing and that they can too.

Leave it set up I WENT TO BAND CAMP ON KELLEY’S ISLAND - SLEPT IN the library branches and now is a carnival party. This will surely be an excitmy family get-togethers.

Gabrielle Huff (ghuff@adamsstreetpublishing.com) A CABIN BUNK BED AND EVERYTHING! Road Trips from Toledo” at toledoparent.com.

I want to compile a list based ing will day forsee your them little Leo.(on You can keep the for a week and you their Account Executives:TREE AND HAVING DECORATING OUR CHRISTMAS ming that connectivity withas our on the best local to-dos de- family. In this Amy Sheetz party cost-efficient by going to Goodwill or the CHRISTMAS DINNER WITH MY FAMILY own time) delving into their inner expres(amy@adamsstreetpublishing.com) termined by family our readers.

Takelike a lookour at theDigital winners, and let us know how your about maintaining ties, Salvation Army, where they have toys that you I DID SUMMER ART CLASSES AT THE TMA AND CAMPING WITH GIRL SCOUTS AT CAMP LIBBEY AND sion. family enjoys these local adventures.

Bonnie Hunter (bhunter@adamsstreetpublishing.com) can pick up for gifts for less than $2! app that promotes togetherness through cookCAMP STORER.

Staying Cool, Feeling Adventurous

ARIES

This issue also announces the winners of our Disability Friendly Awards. See

In addition ourinannual Holiday Happenings theto results our Exceptional Families column. For this year’s Maternity Guide, we focused on the oh-so-timely health concerns of moms-to-be and postpartum ages with hopeful stories, including the feature mamas with two of our features, and we also include a celebration of a local new ilds community among mothers. mom, WTOL’s Zeinab Cheaib. From our food review and lists of new Toledo area family-friendly to our exploration help you navigate toughbusinesses decisions that moms of the APA’s guidelines on social media use, it’s an issue full of helpful tips. ut, including the “breast is best” topic, with loHope you all enjoy the rest of this beautiful Midwest summer! oints of view, plus resources to get you through XOXO, um adjustment.

Erin Holden r tools to help youEditor on your parenting journey Assignment Toledo inspiration Area Parent LEO ow you’ll find in our November/

TAURUS

November 22 to December 21

WATCHING MOVIES. GEMINI CANCER Gabbi Huff

(ghuff@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

Jenny Leach YES, (jleach@adamsstreetpublishing.com) AT UT’S REC CENTER. DECORATING OUR CHRISTMAS Bonnie HunterTREE WITH THE (bhunter@ adamsstreetpublishing.com) KIDDOS WAS ALWAYS MY FAVORITE! ALL GROWN CAMP STORER. NOW, SO MISS IT! Jenny Leach

(jleach@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

Art/Production

NO - WE WENT CAMPING BUT NOT SUMMER CAMPS.

Art/Production

Production Manager: Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) CAMP STORER.

VIRGO

Senior Designer: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) NO. MY PARENTS SHIPPED ME TO CALIFORNIA TO PLAY IN THE SUN AND SURF. PRODUCTION MANAGER

LIBRA

SCORPIO

(August 23-September 22) Media: (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Imani LateefDigital Nate Light This month your Virgo child is going to SWEET POTATO SOUFFLE. (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) at the Franklin Park Mall from 11am-12:30pm in partnership with Toledo want to tap into their intuition. I suggest some CAMP MIAKONDA. Area Parent. Featuring different forms of entertainment each week (the imagination exercises because imagination is Web Manager: SENIOR DESIGNER first one was hosted by STEAM-focused Snapology), it is a fun event that John Borell (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Leah Foley the key to developing intuition.

When planning (jborell@adamsstreetpublishing.com) I look forward to sharing with Townes.

BLACK FRIDAY . your child’s birthday, let them feel with their Digital Marketing and SHOPPING Social Media: Margot Jacobs (margot@adamsstreetpublishing.com) mind! As parents, make an invitation list to C11 Products is a cleaning product brand owned by a local entrepreneur. I YES. I WENT TO AN ALL GIRLS SUMMER CAMP IN Your Sagittarius child born with a curiteachwas them to connect with the people they discovered their sprays (safe for kids and pets) while at the Perrysburg Farmer’s NORTHERN WISCONSIN. Administration Market a while back, and I have been loving their all-purpose cleaner in the the happiest with to rather than the people ous mind and will feel always want explore Administration ACCOUNTING scent Lemony Lavender. Browse their website, c11products.com, to learn more. they feel obliged to invite. An exercise for kids Accounting: (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) Robin Armstrong beyond Mom andcalled Dad’s limits; however, Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledocitypaper.com) “Love your Child’s Imagination” takes CAMP STORER. OUR FAMILY OUTING TO CUT DOWN A Lady-Comp Fertility Tracker - Ladies: since 2017, Ithey have usedalso this fertility five minutes from each dayMom for three days want direction anddoing an Distribution: FRESH CHRISTMAS TREE. Karena Adams (distribution@toledocitypaper.com) monitor to both not get pregnant, and then to get pregnant. You take your temimagination exercise. Have your child lie down I WENT TO DAY CAMP AT ERIE MASON SCHOOLS Dad about what is, and what isn’t, good perature every morning with it, track your periods, and it will learn your individual on a blanket with you, then ask them to close DISTRIBUTION cycle to a T. It’s not cheap, but I can attest to its effectiveness.for them. They aretheir theeyes future teachers, and imagine they are atscitheir next Karena Adams (distribution@adamsstreetpublishing.com) More people need to know about it! birthday partyexplorers. and have them imagine ADVERTISING/GENERAL INFO For advertising entists, researchers, and This that it Infocall 419/244-9859 or fax and general information, is full of shapes and colors. Ask them what Advertising/General For advertising and general information, month will offer you and your child the op419/244-9871.

E-mail ads to adsin@adamsstreetshapes and colors they are seeing, then ask Shrinking (Apple TV) is one of my new favorite shows. Starring Jason Segel as call 419-244-9859 or Deadline fax 419-244-9871. publishing.com. for advertisingE-mail copy 2 ads p.m. to adsin@ them to sense them.

Do they feel them?

Do adamsstreetpublishing.com.

Deadline advertising copy 2 portunity to grow together as they will be a therapist who recently lost his wife in a car accident and is struggling to connect with Friday before publication. Toledo Areafor Parent subp.m. Friday before publication.

Parent scriptions are available by mailToledo for $30Area per year at subscripthey smell anything? Do they hear anything? his daughter. It’s a tragicomedy that will make you laugh until you cry, and sometimes attached at your hip, watching everything are available by mail for $30Adams per year at Adams Street Adams Street Publishing, 1120 St., Toledo, you’ll just cry.

What do they taste, and what are the colors tions Ohio 43604.

One copySt., freeToledo, per person per week; Publishing, 1120 Adams Ohio 43604.extra One copy free you do and wanting tothem? try it! telling They will let you know, for per person copies per $1 each.

Persons taking copies$1foreach. any reason week; extra copies Persons taking thanreason personalother use are subject to prosecution. for any than personal use are subject to instance, what they were chasing and you’llcopies other Letters to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are The Gospel of Wellness: Gyms, Gurus, Goop, and the know what kind of food and cake to have. prosecution. editing,must and should includetothe300 writer’s full are subject Letterssubject to thetoeditor be limited words, False Promise of Self-Care by Rina Raphael - I picked this up at nameand andshould phone number. submitted to the and phone Loving your Virgo child’s imagination is key to to editing, includeAny theletter writer’s full name the Maumee library on a whim and couldn’t put it down. Raphael is a very thorough journalist editor publisher may be to printed at the publisher’s TO RECEIVE OUR WEEKLY number.

Anyorletter submitted the editor or publisher may be helping them develop future creative skills, and who picks apart the unsavory practices of some in the booming wellness industry. Some Also sup- publishers in issues subsequent to itsinreceipt. of: printeddiscretion at the publisher’s discretion issuesEntire subsequent to the party will be perfect because they created contents © 2023 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All posed cure-allsTO often leave women feeling even more lost — and unwell — than they were E-NEWSLETTER ENTER its receipt. Entire contents © 2021 by Adams Street Publishing rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited it with you. before the words “self-care” and “wellness” entered our collective zeitgeist. Read it before Co. All without rights written reserved.

Reproduction in any form is prohibited permission of the publisher.

CONTESTS AND GET you buy yet another salt lamp! without written permission of the publisher.

Wiggle Wednesday Kids’ Club is a completely free event held

SAGITTARIUS CAPRICORN AQUARIUS

PISCES

SIGN UP

THE “SCOOP” ON WHAT’S HAPPEINING AROUND 4 TOLEDO. • July/August 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

toledoparent.com

• November/December 2021 • www.toledoparent.com

Audited by

#showandtell We’ve got winners from our Easter photo contest, along with a few other snapshots that 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 or visit our Contests & Giveaways page at toledoparent.com to submit.

Easterts!

BAskeDee (age three) and Lily (almost eight) enjoy many Easter baskets.

David (age 3) from

PLAY BALL!

Sylvania

er Cov

s Kid

Drew Fisher (10) of Toledo. Photo by Michael Popovitch.

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2023 SPONSORED

COVER

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Find th e Righ for your t Childcare Child P. 10

Summer Ca mp March/April Cover Kids checking out the issue!

Gearing up for

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March is Disabi Awarenes lity s Mo

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VOTING beginS march 15

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FAFVAOMR I L Y ITES 202

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Congra Washin ts Local gton School s

Instagrams we Love

@sylvaniachildren often showcases all the educational (and adorable) things Sylvania Children’s Center students are up to, from outside learning immersion to crafts.

Premier Bank has pledged $35,000 to the Washington Local Schools Foundation. The funds will be used to support the Learn More After Four program.

@shellivarelli_birthservices - This local midwife has some fascinating posts on pregnancy. Bonus: she has some very unique artwork, made from placenta. You have to see it to believe it!

@stargazersphoto - Get ready for some precious baby photos from this IG account! They also share beautiful maternity photos for pregnant mamas looking for a talented photographer.

www.toledoparent.com • July/August 2023 •

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what’s briefly happening...

The Olander Park System Rebrands

School of Rock in Perrysburg Brings Rock Lessons for Families

Early this year, The Olander Park System changed its name to Outdoor Sylvania Community Parks to better reflect the five parks welcoming the community: Olander Park, Fossil Park, Sylvan Prairie, Whetstone Park and Southview Oak Savanna. The organization’s new tagline, “Explore more,” is accompanied by new branding colors and logo but the mission is the same.

Outdoor Sylvania Community Parks allows the community to go outside and explore all the outdoors have to offer.

For more information, visit outdoorsylvania.com. —OJ

Ron Rothenbuhler recently opened a branch of the School of Rock franchise in Levis Commons.The Perrysburg location will teach students guitar, drums, bass, piano and vocals, while featuring classes for songwriting and performing. It also has several rehearsal spaces and two drum rooms. Perrysburg’s School of Rock classes follow a structure of one weekly private lesson combined with one group rehearsal.

School of Rock Perrysburg, Chappel Dr. 567-698-7625 schoolofrock.com —SK

UToledo’s Ritter Planetarium reopens

DeWine proposes new Department of Children and Youth Toledo Zoo introduces twin polar bears On Friday, April 28, the Toledo Zoo introduced twin polar bear cubs, Kallik and Kallu, to the Arctic Encounter exhibit. Kallik and Kallu, two male cubs born November 11, 2022, are with their mother Crystal. According to Michael Frushour, curator of mammals, the cubs stand out among their counterparts and “may be some of the most fun and rambunctious cubs we have ever had here at Toledo Zoo.” The cubs can be visited daily from 10 am to 5 pm, or viewed on the Zoo’s YouTube channel. Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-5721. toledozoo.org —SK

On March 31, The University of Toledo reopened Ritter Planetarium to the public and introduced its new Digistar 7 state-of-the-art digital projection system. With this new system, the Planetarium is able to offer visitors an upgraded viewing experience, featuring higher quality, 4K imagery, as well as live-streamed events and shows from around the world.

Dr. Michael Cushing, a professor of physics and astronomy and director of Ritter Planetarium, shared the new possibilities afforded by the technology, stating, “now we have the ability to do things like fly through the rings of Saturn or take a tour of the Pleiades star cluster.”

The Ritter Planetarium experience includes a live guided tour of the Toledo night sky, an immersive, fulldome show, an open-ended Q&A session, and (weather-permitting) a visit to the Brooks Observatory to use UToledo’s Celestron 14 Edge HD Telescope. Ritter Astrophysical Research, 2855 W Bancroft St. 419-530-2650. utoledo.edu.. —SK

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Maumee Valley Country Day School’s Lower School receives Eco Award The Eco Elementary School Award reflects a school’s efforts to integrate nature into education and extracurricular activities and is presented by the Science Alliance for Valuing the Environment (S.A.V.E.) a nonprofit organization at Lourdes that develops sustainability programs for the Toledo area. According to Susan Perzynski, a S.A.V.E. board member, Maumee Valley was selected for the award based on several program aspects, including its commitment to ensuring students spend multiple hours outside each week, integration of outdoor and traditional classrooms, leadership opportunities for students and partnerships with local businesses and organizations such as Metroparks Toledo, Toledo Grows, Nature’s Nursery, MacQueen Orchards, area farms and the Butterfly House. Several individual teachers have also been recognized for their dedication to enforcing the Forest school philosophy, which is implemented in schools that consist of nature-based communities focused on learner-led outdoor play to encourage curiosity and exploration. To learn more about S.A.V.E. and Maumee Valley’s selection as an award winner, visit sciencealliancesave.org. —SK

• July/August 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

This new department proposal is expected to be created in July 2023, and will help “reduce duplicative programs in state government while also increasing service delivery and administrative efficiency.” To execute these plans, the new Department of Children and Youth will combine resources from six existing state agencies including: Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD), The Department of Education (ODE), Department of Health (ODH), Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), Department of Medicaid (ODM) and Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (ODMH).

The DeWine Administration has also clarified the new department’s three primary goals: (1) supporting Ohio families, (2) preventing child abuse and neglect and (3) preparing and educating children to ensure readiness for school and beyond. The budget for the proposed department will be sourced mostly from federal funding.

Medicaid in particular will be an important funding element for the new department which will enhance the focus on children and the new department’s role in paying for healthcare services for more than 3 million Ohioans.

Visit communitysolutions.com to learn more about Ohio’s new Children and Youth Department. —SK

The Imagination Press, an interactive art and

apparel workshop, is now open at the Shops at Fallen Timbers. The store offers on-demand screen printing services and can produce a range of products from canvas prints to clothing. Guests can schedule special events for creative group experiences or to incorporate augmented reality (AR) with their printed creations. 3100 Main Street, Suite #1137, Maumee. 567-202-3150.

Theimaginationpress.com —TCP

Just Toledo, a zero-waste community endeavor that helps

people access cleaner products and make lifestyle changes to support a healthier environment, has opened a location downtown! Structured according to the “milk man model,” it is set up so that the price of each product includes a $3 refundable deposit that is repaid to customers when they return product containers. The environmentally conscious approach of Just Toledo applies to more than just its packaging and delivery methods—all products are made in small batches using natural, biodegradable ingredients. Just Toledo, 909 Jefferson Ave. justtoledostore@gmail.com justtoledo.net —SK

Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo Introduce Exergame Equipment

Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo recently introduced “Exergame” to its members, who now have the option to participate in this program that combines digital technology with physical exercise. The Exergame program features six stations that are appropriate for all ages and levels of fitness. Additionally, each of the Exergame stations help participants develop different exercise-related skill sets like hand-eye coordination, balance, strength-training and more. Members of the Homer Hanham Club (located at 2250 N. Detroit Ave.) will have daily access to Exergame equipment, while members of seven other club locations will schedule field trips to use the equipment. bgctoledo.org. —SK

Local Roots Juice Co. coming soon to Sylvania

Local Roots Juice Company is a healthy smoothie/ juice/food company built on the philosophy that “life is too short to not choose the donut.” Regardless of which foods you may prefer on a regular basis, you can count on them for healthy options that range from juice cleanses and superfood smoothies, to bowls and toast. In addition to their Perrysburg location, Local Roots Juice Co. is excited to announce the new Sylvania location at 5441 Main Street, which is expected to open by Fall 2023. localrootsjuiceco.com. —SK

The Mental Health Collaborative brings services to Toledo

On March 13, The Mental Health Collaborative opened to provide therapy and medication management services to the Toledo area through in-person and online treatment options. Co-founders Chelsea Alberding, M.D., and Leah Reed, LPCC, have established a care team that consists of counselors and psychiatrists who are trained to help manage various mental health concerns.

Mental Health Collaborative, 4041 W. Sylvania Ave., Ste. 202.

419-504-5624.

Thementalhealthcollaborative.com —SK

Free

Safe Medication Return Convenient

Safe

Environmentally Responsible

When you properly store and dispose of unused medications, you are doing your part to keep your family and friends healthy and safe.

Help prevent accidental poisoning, medication misuse and environmental harm by dropping off your expired or unused medications at a local medicine drop box.

Check your local police department, pharmacy or hospital for locations or go to www. sylvaniaprevention.org for a list of locations in Lucas County.

Watch for Lucas County Drug Take Back Day on October 28, 2023

www.toledoparent.com • July/August 2023 •

7

Paddle Paddle the the Pond Pond 2 & 4 Mondays, 4 – 7:30 pm July 10 & 24, August 14 & 28 nd

th

W.W. Knight Nature Preserve 29530 White Rd, Perrysburg 43551 Free. No Registration. wcparks.org

Disability Friendly Awards Toledo’s residents and establishments are working hard to think differently about disability. Restaurants, events, workspaces and activities in the area are implementing ways to create accessibility for the entire Toledo community. The Ability Center of Greater Toledo and the Toledo City Paper want to highlight the people and places doing a stellar job with accessibility. After receiving votes for a little more than two months, the results are in.

Check out the winners, below. ­­– RR

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNERS

Inclusive Family-Friendly Event Imagination Station

imaginationstationtoledo.org

Disability-Friendly Workplace Lott Industries lottserves.org

Local Disability Ally Stroke Life Center

Manage the Mayhem!

strokelifecenter.org

Most Accessible Establishment

(restaurant/bar) Condado Tacos – Monroe Street locations.condadotacos.com/ oh/5215-monroe-st.

Best Adaptive Outdoor Activity

Wood County Plays – Ryan Wichman wcplays.org

Ability Center’s Library Takeover

Free Quotes & Estimates

Saturday, July 22 from noon-4pm.

Join us at Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. for sensory spaces, demonstrations, activities, resource vendors and more!

7944 W Central Ave Ste 1, Toledo, Ohio 43617 (419) 841-2628 | www.distinctivedesignstoragesolutions.com 8

• July/August 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

In partnership with

1

Parables With a Purpose

Dr. Louis Tartaglia’s lessons on building character

By Mary Rose Kulczak

Dr. Louis Tartaglia has impressive credentials. He’s a board certified sleep medicine specialist at the Toledo Clinic, a motivational speaker and an author, with a list of friends and mentors who are equally impressive including the late author Og Mandino, Scott DeGarmo (editor of Success magazine), author Mark Victor Hanson and the late Mother Teresa.

Faith and family

Faith formation is an important part of a child’s development, and it is a recurring theme in Dr. Tartaglia’s books.

“You can’t be a whole individual and function in a family without faith,” he says, adding, “With the mental health crisis, what you’re seeing is addictions to all sorts of things. It is a hole in your soul that people are trying to fill with other substances rather than God. There is something lacking within, and we are using other things to fill it. [Gaining] more followers on Facebook and Twitter is not going to fill a hole in your soul.”

Mentors needed

In his previous book, The Great Wing, Dr. Tartaglia relates a parable about a young goose preparing for migration with the help of older, wiser mentors. “Most people need to work with a mentor at some time in their life in order to help with their transformation,” he explains, noting that many young people today look to the wrong people to be their mentors.

Getting to Know Dr. Tartaglia Where did you grow up?

Morristown, New Jersey.

Where did you go to school? NYU and The University of Bologna, Italy.

Tell us about your family. I’m married to Jeane. We have six children and five grandchildren between us.

How long have you been in Toledo and what brought you here? Since 1994. I had an illness, left psychiatry and moved to the Midwest to be near family and friends.

Do you belong to a local parish or church? St. Joe’s Sylvania on Sundays, and St. Joe’s Maumee for daily mass.

What are your favorite local spots in Toledo? M Osteria, Domo Sushi and the Toledo Museum of Art.

Dr. Louis Tartaglia Do you have any future projects in the works? A sequel to Last Gift of the Magi titled The Return of the Cloth. The planned release date is January 2024.

What are your best words of motivation? No matter how dire the situation looks, no matter how bleak it is, God has given you the talent somewhere inside to help you get through it.

Yes, that Mother Teresa.

It was his work in Rome that helped inspire him to write his latest book, Last Gift of the Magi. “I was in Rome helping with a rehab facility that I had set up for Mother Teresa,” says Dr. Tartaglia.

“I was in this library, and there was an old encyclopedia from the 1800s. It was in Italian, and it listed the twelve magi according to the Eastern Orthodox, and the nine magi according to the Latin tradition. I found that intriguing since I thought there were only three magi.” This new information inspired Dr. Tartaglia to explore the Christmas and Epiphany accounts, using a young camel to tell the story of the Holy Family and their flight into Egypt.

“I thought I’d write something for my kids about the fact that there were more than three magi, and it developed into this story,” he says. “Mark Victor Hanson kept telling me that I should have it published. I rewrote it so that we could focus more clearly on the virtues.”

This parable tells the story of Jamil, a young camel who struggles to find his purpose in life. Dr. Tartaglia sees that as a theme that young people today struggle with as well. “Last Gift of the Magi is discovering your purpose in life. If you get out into the desert, the struggle of life, where things look bleak and you have to trust in God in order to survive, that’s where you discover your inner greatness and inner potential.”

“They try to mentor each other rather than find someone who’s already been down the path. They look to celebrities as their mentors, and what you see with a celebrity is a manufactured ideal that is inflated to sell a product. Their beliefs are often distorted and made up. It’s not a true mentor relationship, and yet that’s who people look to for guidance.”

Dr. Tartaglia hopes that these books will help readers in their personal transformations. “The more you learn, the more you incorporate into your life, the better your faith situation is going to be,” he says. “And the more faith you develop, the more trust you develop in God, the better your life becomes.”

Dr. Tartaglia’s books can be found on Amazon.com.

www.toledoparent.com • July/August 2023 •

9

Maternity Guide Pregnancy is a Marathon, Not a Sprint How CenteringPregnancy promotes taking more time with expecting mothers

By Penny Tullis Meeker

Bloom, a beautiful process of becoming.

Now hiring Mental Health Professionals

Need to talk?

Therapy for Women & Moms

Now accepting new clients!

419-326-5732

bloomwomenscounseling.com

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C

entering Healthcare is a national model, providing care throughout pregnancy and early childhood in a comfortable, supportive group environment. Certified midwives from ProMedica’s Center for Health Services led the initiative to bring CenteringPregnancy to Toledo in 2019 because of the impressive improvement in health outcomes for both mom and baby. ProMedica is the first and only accredited Centering site in Northwest Ohio.

One of the most dramatic differences between CenteringPregnancy and traditional prenatal care is the amount of time spent with the healthcare provider.

As a pediatric nurse for over 30 years, Cathy Jaworski, MSN, RNBC, has been impressed with how the program has improved patient outcomes and patients’ experiences. “Can you imagine that you get to sit with your provider for basically two hours? Parents are really loving the amount of extra time that they get with the provider to be able to ask questions.”

How Centering Pregnancy works

Pregnant women are put in a group of 8-12 with others who have similar due dates. The group meets 10 times

• July/August 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

throughout the pregnancy. ProMedica’s Meg Floyd, APRN-CNM, emphasizes that it’s not an additional class. “It’s actually a group medical visit that replaces the individual appointments. It is their prenatal care. It’s just a different way of doing it. It’s enhanced, so they get a lot more out of it.”

Key components of Centering Pregnancy

Active involvement in their own

health. Moms are taught at the first visit to check their own weight and blood pressure.

One-on-one time with a health-

care provider. Each session begins with private, individual assessment with a midwife.

Interactive, educational group

sessions. Facilitated discussions help patients to be more informed and empowered to make healthier choices. Session topics include nutrition, family planning, self-care, newborn care and what to expect in labor and postpartum. Moms have plenty of time to ask questions, learn from each other and to receive guidance from the midwife.

The group room is designed to be

nurturing and comfortable with food and snacks, music, aromatherapy, yoga balls, birthing dolls and yoga mats. Expectant moms learn stretches and muscle strengthening.

maumee pediatric

Community resources and

support. Community programs provide education on car seat safety, lactation, finances, the doula experience, early childhood development and reading readiness. A community health worker connects expectant moms with resources such as getting a car seat, a safe bed for the baby or rental assistance.

Centering Parenting

Like CenteringPregnancy, parents of newborn babies born near the same time are placed in small groups and meet for two hours. Group sessions replace individual well-baby visits from birth to two years.

In these sessions, parents learn to measure the height and weight of the baby. The pediatrician does a private, physical assessment of the child and immunizations are available. A registered nurse and pediatrician lead a discussion based on typical concerns for the age of the babies. Jaworski has noticed that parents learn from each other as much as they learn from the provider. Community organizations also provide interactive education where parents read to, play with, or massage their babies.

associates

Newborns to teenagers, wellness checks to mental health support... and

everything in between.

Improved health outcomes

Research has shown that Centering lowers the risk of preterm birth, reduces low birth weight, increases breastfeeding rates, improves attendance at recommended pediatrician visits and increases immunization rates. Remarkably, the Centering protocol has been shown to nearly eliminate racial disparities in preterm birth.

Floyd has also noticed that staff at the hospital “can tell which patients have gone through Centering because they ask all the right questions. They’re more informed when they go into the hospital to deliver their babies.”

For more information on CenteringPregnancy and CenteringParenting in Toledo, you can call the Centering Coordinator, Shontae Hill, at 419-291-2253.

We travel the pediatric health journey together with parents, as parents FELLOWS OF AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS

Dr. Sarah Magoun

• Dr. Regina Eich • Dr. Noah Sutter

together with Karla Morman, PA-C

Healing hands.

Caring hearts.

independent local practice SINCE 1983

520 W. Sophia St, Maumee, OH | ph: 419.893.1880 | maumeepeds.com

www.toledoparent.com • July/August 2023 •

11

Maternity Guide

Extra Care for Discomfort Down There Pelvic Congestion Syndrome affects women, and sometimes men, too

By Mary Rose Kulczak

Experience the C DC difference!

Is your little one ready for new discoveries?

Foster your child’s natural curiosity and nurture their development at our five Toledo-area child centers.

Discover the CDC difference and experience the impact of a Children’s Discover Center education!

Award-Winning Childcare Renowned Learning Environments Immersive & Engaging Teaching Philosophy 2022

FAMIL Y

FAVES

WINNER

Contact us today to learn

more about our centers and enroll your young explorer: (419) 867-8570

HOLLAND • PERRYSBURG • FRANKLIN PARK • WATERVILLE

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Symptoms of PCS include:

Aching pelvic pain which worsens after standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time.

Pain during or after intercourse Painful periods Pelvic pain and discomfort is commonly experienced by women at various stages of life, and more often for women who are postpartum. Finding the cause of the pain is often the first step towards relieving the symptoms.

“A third of all women will have chronic pelvic pain at some point in their lives,” said Heather Perné, NP-C, CWS at University of Toledo Health Physicians. Perné, who works as a nurse practitioner in the Vascular, Endovascular and Wound Surgery Department, is raising awareness about a condition known as Pelvic Congestion Syndrome.

“Pelvic Congestion Syndrome frequently goes unrecognized as a cause of chronic pelvic pain. A vascular disorder affecting the veins of the pelvic region, (the Syndrome occurs when) there is not proper drainage of blood out of these veins.”

• July/August 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

Back pain Painful veins in the groin or labia Ovarian tenderness on pelvic exam

Pain upon urination or bowel movements

Stress incontinence Diagnosis and causes

PCS is most commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 20 and 50.

Although it is much less common, it can occasionally affect men as well.

“Pelvic Vein Dysfunction, or reflux, causes blood to flow backwards in the pelvis instead of up to the heart. This causes engorgement and inflammation of the veins in the pelvis. The affected veins can be visible or ( may be) deep in the pelvis. Visible varicose veins can be on the labia, groin, buttocks, or proximal thighs.”

Risk factors for PCS include women who have experienced multiple births, have been diagnosed with polycystic ovaries, or have elevated estrogen levels. Also, women whose work requires them to stand for long periods of time may be at greater risk.

Perné noted that it is important to rule out other causes of chronic pelvic pain before seeing a specialist.

Your photographer for birth and beyond jp-photography.net

A third of all women will have chronic pelvic pain at some point in their lives.”

Ruling out other potential causes of pain

Think of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome as a possible diagnosis when someone has chronic pelvic pain for six months or longer in the absence of pelvic pathology such as fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian mass, or pelvic inflammatory disease. Once the above have been ruled out by a primary care physician or obstetrician-gynecologist, it may be time for patients to make an appointment with a vascular specialist for evaluation of PCS as a potential cause.

A specialist will likely order a CT venogram to determine the amount of reflux. A transvaginal ultrasound may also be performed.

“With a pelvic venogram, a catheter is inserted into the common femoral vein and an injection of dye enables visualization of the pelvic veins,” Perné explains, adding, “the affected veins are treated with embolization, coiling or sclerotherapy, which block the blood flow in the affected veins. This stops the engorgement in the vein, thus reducing inflammation in the vein and reducing pressure on surrounding structures.

This is an outpatient procedure, so patients go home the same day.”

Perné encourages anyone with chronic pelvic pain to seek a physician’s diagnosis. “If left untreated, the symptoms may worsen, causing an increase in pain, anxiety, and an overall decrease in the quality of life.”

“Toledo’s Exclusive Birth Photographer” Lover of maternity, birth, fresh baby images and Doula work.

Julie (JP) Paszczykowski

419.215.5853

IG: @jpphotographyjulie2.0

FIND, LIKE and FOLLOW US www.toledoparent.com • July/August 2023 •

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• July/August 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

FAOMRIITLEYS

2022

FAV

Favorite Library Branch WINNER: Main Library

Place to Bank WINNER: Directions Credit Union

RUNNER UP: Maumee Library

RUNNER UP: Glass City Federal

Place to Worship WINNER: St. Patrick of Heatherdowns Church

Real Estate Agent WINNER: Vicki Sedlak Fesh,

RUNNER UP: St. Joseph Catholic

RUNNER UP: Megan Hornsby,

Church, Sylvania stjoessylvania.org

Hornsby Home Team meganhornsby.kw.com

Kid-Friendly Museum WINNER: Imagination Station

Place to Get a Mortgage WINNER: Directions Credit Union

325 Michigan St. 419-259-5200 toledolibrary.org/locations/main-library toledolibrary.org/locations/maumee

The results are in for the best-of-the-best. Determined by the votes of our readers and compiled By Toledo Parent staff.

Every year, thousands of Toledo Parent readers cast votes for the businesses, places and people they love in our Family Favorites voting. Readers rely on the voting results to help them choose pediatricians, find the perfect birthday party venue, grab the most delicious meal and much more. We are honored that you let your voices be heard with support for your favorite area institutions.

Here are the Toledo Area Parent Family Favorites selected for 2022!

4201 Heatherdowns Blvd.

419-381-1540 toledostpats.org

1 Discovery Way 419-244-2674 imaginationstationtoledo.org

RUNNER UP: Toledo Museum of Art

toledomuseum.org

Family Activity WINNER: Toledo Zoo 2 Hippo Way 419-385-4040 toledozoo.org

Kids of all ages love the Zoo, and for good reason. The Toledo Zoo is one of the best in the nation, featuring more than 10,000 animals that your family can get up close and personal with. And with summertime events like Christmas in July, special events at the amphitheater, a splash pad and an epic playground, a petting zoo and educational talks from the zookeepers, there are many reasons to “Zoo it”!

RUNNER UP: Country Lane Tree Farm

countrylanetreefarm.com

Overnight Trip with the Kids WINNER: Cannaley Tree House Village

ohiodnr.gov

Family Day Trip WINNER: Toledo Zoo 2 Hippo Way 419-385-4040 toledozoo.org

RUNNER UP: Country Lane Tree Farm

countrylanetreefarm.com

Credit Union glasscityfcu.com

Danberry Realtors

3242 Executive Pkwy.

419-346-4081 vickifesh.danberry.com

Various locations 888-508-2228 directionscu.org

RUNNER UP: KeyBank

key.com

Indoor Playspace WINNER: Imagination Station

3520 Waterville Swanton Rd., Swanton 419-407-9723 metroparkstoledo.com RUNNER-UP: Maumee Bay State Park

Various locations 888-508-2228 directionscu.org

1 Discovery Way 419-244-2674 imaginationstationtoledo.org

RUNNER UP: Urban Air Adventure Park

urbanair.com/ohio-toledo

Sporting Event for Families WINNER: Toledo Mud Hens Fifth Third Field, 406 Washington St. 419-725-4367 milb.com/toledo RUNNER UP: Toledo Walleye Hockey

toledowalleye.com

Place to Volunteer WINNER: Toledo Humane Society 827 Illinois Ave., Maumee 419-891-0705 toledohumane.org

RUNNER UP: Ronald McDonald House

rmhctoledo.org

Animal Encounters WINNER: Toledo Zoo 2 Hippo Way 419-385-4040 toledozoo.org

RUNNER UP: Country Lane Tree Farm

countrylanetreefarm.com

Garden/Nature Center WINNER: Toledo Botanical Garden 5403 Elmer Dr. 419-270-7500 metroparkstoledo.com

RUNNER UP: Hoen’s Garden

Center & Landscaping hoensgardencenter.com

Party Entertainment WINNER: Country Lane Tree Farm 3525 N. Bolander Rd., Genoa 419-461-1298 Countrylanetreefarm.com

RUNNER UP: Laurel’s Princess Parties laurelsprincessparties.com

Place to Buy a Birthday Cake WINNER: Natalie’s Cake Library 419-482-8214 nataliescakelibrary.com

RUNNER UP: Eston’s Bakery

estonsbakery.com

Locally owned place to buy a gift WINNER: Fiddlestix Boutique 5693 Main St., Sylvania.

419-386-2812 4165 Chappel Dr., Perrysburg.

419-931-2022 fiddlestixboutique.com

RUNNER UP: Toledo Lamp Company —

Art on Market Shoppes toledolampcompany.com

Place for an OUTDOOR Birthday Bash WINNER: Country Lane Tree Farm 3525 N. Bolander Rd., Genoa 419-461-1298 countrylanetreefarm.com

RUNNER UP: Wildwood Preserve Metropark

metroparkstoledo.com

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Continued on P. 16 15

Kid Friendly Coffee Shop WINNER: Papa Moose’s Donuts

Continued from P. 15

165 Superior St., Rossford 419-725-4433 papamoosesdonuts.com

RUNNER UP: Copper Press Roastery

copperpresscoffee.com

Healthy Family Restaurant WINNER: Balance Pan-Asian Grille

Cupcakes/ Bakery WINNER: Cake in a Cup 6511 W. Central Ave. 419-491-1104 cakeinacup.com

Place for an INDOOR birthday bash WINNER: Urban Air Adventure Park

eatzingos.com

nataliescakelibrary.com

Family Friendly Restaurant WINNER: Cocina de Carlos

With more attractions than you could imagine, Urban Air Adventure Park makes for the best birthday party spot.

Party goers can enjoy the adventure hub, with a combination of events to choose from, including the drop zone where you can flip, spin and practice your acrobatic skills on a giant, inflatable airbag; the runway tumble track for gymnasts and daredevils alike; the wipeout course for those who can handle a challenge; go karts; a ropes course; climbing walls; trampolines; tubes playgrounds; and so much more. For endless games and a great time, Urban Air Adventure Park is the party spot.

RUNNER UP: Country Lane Tree Farm

16

RUNNER UP: Zingo’s Mediterranean

RUNNER UP: Natalie’s Cake Library

5243 Airport Hwy. 419-962-3257 urbanair.com/ohio-toledo

countrylanetreefarm.com

balancegrille.com

27072 Carronade Dr., Perrysburg 419-872-0200 205 Farnsworth Rd., Waterville 419-878-0261 cocinadecarlos.com

Candy Shop WINNER: Boyd’s Retro Candy Store

2515 N. Summit St. 419-243-2222 5860 Central Ave. 419-243-7777 26520 N. Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg 419-874-7777 balancegrille.com

954 Phillips Ave. 419-720-7387 Boydsretrocandy.com Step back in time with Boyd’s Retro Candy Store! This store not only has a large selection of candies, but it dates back to the late 1800s.

Boyd’s specializes in 50s, 60s and 70s sweets, but also carries modern candy for every generation. Boyd’s provides treats for parties or weddings, as well as individual bags of candy to enjoy in the comfort of your own home. The store is constantly updating its supply, and also provides mail-out orders for those who can’t come in to get their goodies. If you have a candy request, Boyd’s can satisfy that sweet tooth.

RUNNER UP: Local Roots Juice Co.

RUNNER UP: Maumee Valley

RUNNER UP: Charlie’s Homemade

Ice Cream & Burgers charlieshomemadeicecream.com

Healthy Fast Food WINNER: Balance Pan-Asian Grille

localrootsjuiceco.com

Chocolate and Candy valleycandy.com

• July/August 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

Frozen Treats Shop WINNER: Mr. Freeze

2031 N. McCord Rd. 627 W. South Boundary St., Perrysburg. facebook.com/mymrfreeze RUNNER UP: Charlie’s Homemade

Ice Cream & Burgers charlieshomemadeicecream.com

Local Pizza Place WINNER: Crust Pizzeria

6792 Providence St., Whitehouse 567-406-3800 crustpizzawhitehouse.com RUNNER UP: Home Slice Pizza

homeslice419.com

Place where kids eat free WINNER: Sidelines Sports Eatery & Pub Various locations sidelinessportseatery.com RUNNER UP: Fricker’s

frickers.com

Local Online Influencer WINNER:

Mom on the Go in Holy Toledo

momonthegoinholytoledo.com

Places to Get a Kid’s Haircut WINNER: Cookie Cutter’s Haircuts for Kids

25684 N. Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg 419-279-2631 haircutsarefun.com

Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids provides families with haircuts for their children with some serious fun thrown in for the kids. The waiting area features a playset and the cutting floor has fantasy chairs and televisions to keep your children entertained while their hair is being cut. Cookie Cutter’s stylists are specially trained in cutting hair for children, and they work to show little ones that haircuts can be fun instead of a tedious chore. For children’s haircuts and a side of fun, Cookie Cutters is the spot for you.

RUNNER UP: Headhunters Barber

Studio & Salon facebook.com/HeadHunters419

Locally owned place to buy kids’ clothing WINNER: Once Upon a Child

142 E. South Boundary St., Perrysburg 419-874-3606 onceuponachild.com RUNNER UP: Kids Klothesline

facebook.com/thekidsklothesline

Mom-owned business WINNER: Finn Photography

5649 Mayberry Square E, Sylvania annmarie@photographyfinn.com photographyfinn.com

Bike Shop WINNER: Wersell’s Bike & Ski Shop 2860 Central Ave. 419-474-7412 wersellsbikeshop.com

RUNNER UP: Cycle Werks

Mom on the Go in Holy Toledo is a local influencer who, through her experience as a mother, daughter, friend and neighbor, connects with others. Her website, Mom on the Go in Holy Toledo shows her adventures in the area and relationships with her family while providing helpful lifestyle tips, recipes and more. Above all, Mom on the Go in Holy Toledo emphasizes fun, encouraging readers to remember that life is an adventure to be enjoyed along the way.

RUNNER UP: Amy Seiffert

amyseiffert.com

Local Parent Facebook Group WINNER: NW Ohio Moms

jennifer@nwohiomoms.com nwohiomoms.com facebook.com/nwohiomoms

shopcyclewerks.com

RUNNER UP: Toledo Moms for Social Justice

Family Photographer WINNER: Finn Photography

Place to Buy Children’s Books WINNER: Gathering Volumes

Instagram Account WINNER: NW Ohio Moms

RUNNER UP: JP Photography Studio

RUNNER UP: Learning Express

RUNNER UP: Le Petit Macaron

mycustombakes.com/lepetitmacarontoledo

5649 Mayberry Square E, Sylvania annmarie@photographyfinn.com photographyfinn.com

jp-photography.net

196 E South Boundary St., Perrysburg 419-215-5853 gatheringvolumes.com

learningexpress.com

facebook.com/groups/toledomomsforsocialjustice

jennifer@nwohiomoms.com nwohiomoms.com @nwohiomoms RUNNER UP: JP Photography

jp-photography.net

www.toledoparent.com • July/August 2023 •

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Continued from P. 17

Preschool WINNER: West Side Montessori 7115 W. Bancroft St. 419-866-1931 13587 Roachton Rd., Perrysburg 419-874-9385 montessoritoledo.org

RUNNER UP: Elizabeth Wayne Preschool

stpaulsmaumee.org/ewpreschool

Teacher WINNER: Gary Varney

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

RUNNER UP: Maria Fisher,

Elizabeth Wayne Preschool facebook.com/ElizabethWaynePreschool

School Principal WINNER: Yolanda Mies Elmhurst Elementary School

4530 Elmhurst Rd. 419-671-3550 elmhurstelementary.tps.org

Disability Friendly Service WINNER: Ability Center of Greater Toledo 5605 Monroe St., Sylvania 419-885-5733 abilitycenter.org

The Ability Center of Greater Toledo (ACT) offers many resources to help kids with disabilities thrive, but the Center is also instrumental in making sure that our city is accessible. The organization provides therapy dogs, help with home accessibility, referrals, and a youth transition program to help with independent living.

Visit their website to read more about the incredible work they do in our community.

RUNNER UP: Help Me Grow —

Lucas County helpmegrow.org

RUNNER UP: Scott Henry,

Northwest Ohio Classical Academy nocacademy.org

Parochial School WINNER: St. Patrick of Heatherdowns

Elementary School 4201 Heatherdowns Blvd.

WINNER: Fairfield Elementary School 419-381-1540 1313 Eastfield Dr., Maumee (419) 893-9821 maumee.k12.oh.us/schools/ fairfield_elementary/

RUNNER UP: Toth Elementary School

perrysburgschools.net

Middle School WINNER: Northwest Ohio Classical Academy 5025 Glendale Ave. 567-420-6180 nocacademy.org

RUNNER UP: Springfield Middle School

springfield-schools.org

Charter School WINNER: Northwest Ohio Classical Academy 5025 Glendale Ave. 567-420-6180 nocacademy.org

RUNNER UP: iLEAD Spring Meadows

ileadspringmeadows.org

toledostpats.org

RUNNER UP: St. Francis de Sales School

sfsknights.org

Private School WINNER: Maumee Valley Country Day School 1715 South Reynolds Rd. mvcds.org

RUNNER UP: Saint Rose School

saintroseonline.org/school

After-School Program WINNER: Girls on the Run 6024 Renaissance Pl. 419-318-9211 girlsontherun.org

RUNNER UP: Kids Club, Northwest

Ohio Classical Academy nocacademy.org

Tutoring Center WINNER: A Village Learning Center 5327 308th St. 419-480-9825 avillagetoledo.com

RUNNER UP: Sylvan Learning

sylvanlearning.com

Daycare

WINNER: Children’s Discovery Center Various locations 419-867-8570 childrensdiscoverycenters.com RUNNER UP: Educare Academy

educareacademy.com

18

• July/August 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

Thanks Toledo for Your Support

Kids Art Class WINNER: Toledo Museum of Art 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000 toledomuseum.org

2022

Whether you want your kids to learn from home or to have a hands-on experience, there are few resources for artistic education quite like TMA. Students as young as six can sign up for courses in a wide variety of disciplines and the Museum’s annual summer camps offer wonderful off-school experiences as well.

RUNNER UP: Create Art Studio and Work-

shop thecreateartstudio.com

FAMIL Y

FAVES

WINNER

Summer 2023 Programs Chaplin The Musical Beauty and the Beast Jr JULY 14-16

Music Lessons WINNER: Forté Music School

Tix Available at ctwtoledo.booktix.net

3208 W. Sylvania Ave. 419-471-2100 fortemusicandarts.com

Name any instrument, and Forté likely offers lessons for it. No matter what your child wants to learn, no matter how much experience they have, no matter if the lessons are in person or online— Forté is your go-to provider. With dozens of professional teachers on staff and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s clear why Forté has been a staple as a great place for music lessons for years.

RUNNER UP: Music Together of Perrysburg

musictogetherperrysburg.com

Places for Crafting WINNER: Toledo Museum of Art Family Center 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000 toledomuseum.org

RUNNER UP: Peace Love & Pottery Studio

peaceloveandpotterystudio.com

AUGUST 4-6

SYLVANIA PEDIATRIC DENTAL CARE

Gymnastics Class WINNER: Sunrise Gymnastics Academy 3640 N. Holland Sylvania Rd. 419-841-2902 sunrisegymnastics.com

RUNNER UP: YMCA Gymnastics Center

ymcatoledo.org

Martial Arts Program WINNER: Karate America & Krav Maga 6755 West Central Ave. 419-309-8294 dtkarate.com

Runner Up: Best Dentist!

RUNNER UP: Sylvania Family Karate

Acting and Theatre Classes sylvaniafamilykarate.com WINNER: Children’s Theatre Swim Lessons Workshop WINNER: SafeSplash + SwimLabs 2417 Collingwood Blvd.

419-244-5061 ctwtoledo.org

RUNNER UP: Toledo Met

toledomet.com

Dance Studio WINNER: Toledo Ballet 5327 Monroe St. 419-471-0049 toledoballet.com

RUNNER UP: Ballet Theatre of Toledo

ballettheatreoftoledo.org

1510 Spring Meadows Dr. #D-100, Holland 419-370-2801 safesplash.com RUNNER UP: Swim with Kym

2022

FAMIL Y

FAVES

Runner Up

swimwithkym.com

Horseback Lessons WINNER: Country Lane Tree Farm 3525 N. Bolander Rd., Genoa 419-461-1298 countrylanetreefarm.com

CALL 419.882.7187 5860 W. Alexis Rd., Sylvania, OH 43560 | SPDC.dental

RUNNER UP: Dusty Boots

dustybootsoh.com

Continued on P. 20

www.toledoparent.com • July/August 2023 •

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Continued from P. 18

Pediatric Practice WINNER: Franklin Park Pediatrics 2000 Regency Ct # 103 419-475-5433 franklinparkpediatrics.com

RUNNER UP: PediatriCare Associates

facebook.com/PediatriCareToledo

Place to Give Birth WINNER: ProMedica Toledo Hospital OB/GYN 2142 N. Cove Blvd. promedica.org

Medical Center mercy.com

Urgent Care WINNER: ProMedica Urgent Care Various locations promedica.org

RUNNER UP: Mercy Health Urgent Care

ProMedica Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology - Sylvania

Jon Frankel Dentistry

promedica.org

RUNNER UP: Leah Kapela, Mercy Health

mercy.com

Family Doctor WINNER: Dr. Jennifer Mullen

5700 Monroe St., Ste. 303, Sylvania 419-473-6622 promedica.org

660 Beaver Creek Circle, Ste. 100, Maumee 419-419-891-6221 promedica.org

ProMedica Physicians Arrowhead Pediatrics

RUNNER UP: Amanda Whittaker,

Mercy Health mercy.com

mercy.com

RUNNER UP: Dr. Henry Naddaf,

Toledo Clinic toledoclinic.com

ENT Doctor WINNER: Vincent Toma, MD Mercy Health

Thank you Toledo!

Your Favorite Cupcakes/Bakery

3829 Woodley Rd. entphysiciansinc.com RUNNER UP: Dr. Ellen Baxter, ProMedica

Physicians Ear, Nose and Throat, Sylvania promedica.org

2022

FAM IL Y

FAVES WIN

NER

6511 W. Central Ave. Toledo, OH 43617 (419) 491-1104

Dentist

WINNER: Melanie Miller, CNM

WINNER: Ann Rhee, MD

ProMedica Physicians Sunforest Obstetrics and Gynecology

RUNNER UP: St. Vincent Mercy

Midwife

cakeinacup.com

Optometrist/ Ophthalmologist WINNER: Dr. Robert K. Rhee, MD Pediatric Ophthalmology Consultants 6544 Central Ave. 419-517-5500 pocllc.com

RUNNER UP: Pinnacle Eye Group

pinnacleeyelambertville.com

Chiropractor WINNER: Spring Meadows Chiropractic

6823 Spring Valley Dr. 419-866-6325 springmeadowschiropractic.com RUNNER UP: Innate Health Chiropractic

getinnatehealth.com

Allergist WINNER: Dr. Ghassan S. Safadi Allergy Clinic of Ohio

1242 Ralston Ave Suite 402, Defiance 419-843-7780 allergyclinicohio.com RUNNER UP: Dr. Jennifer Yonkof, ProMedica

Physicians Allergy and Immunology promedica.org

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• July/August 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

WINNER: Dr. Jon Frankel 5012 Talmadge Rd. 419-474-9611

4359 Keystone Dr., Maumee 419-893-0221 jonfrankeldentistry.com RUNNER UP: Sylvania Pediatric Dental Care

sylvaniapediatricdentalcare.com

Orthodontist WINNER: HLS Orthodontics Various locations perfectbraces.com

RUNNER UP: Drs. Kay & Paulus

kayandpaulus.com

Speech/Language Therapy WINNER: Carla Hinde, MS CCC-SLP Strategic SLP Services, LLC 3950 Sunforest Ct. 567-806-0634

RUNNER UP: Toledo Pediatric Speech Therapy

toledospeechtherapy.com

Family Mental Health and Counseling Services WINNER: Harbor Various locations harbor.org

RUNNER UP: Anchored in Hope Counseling

anchoredinhopecounseling.org

Natural Homeopathic Health WINNER: Jenny Pfleghaar, DO, ABIOM Healthology

140 W Front St., Perrysburg 567-336-6001 healthologymedspa.com RUNNER UP: Dr. Maleigha Watts,

Toledo Naturopathic toledonaturopathic.com

Veterinarian WINNER: West Toledo Animal Hospital

4404 Secor Rd. 419-475-1527 westtoledoanimalhospital.com RUNNER UP: Brannan Veterinary Clinic

brannanvet.com

Laying a Foundation for a Lifetime of Learning Educare Academy Child Development Centers have over 50 years of experience offering a safe, nurturing environment that fosters learning through discovery. Our ten Toledo area locations have earned a 5-star rating, exceeding Ohio’s childcare licensing standards.

• Serve children 6 weeks –12 years • Offer Free PreK at most locations • Safe play areas for outdoor fun

NOW ENROLLING FOR FALL! 419-704-2009 educareacademy.com

www.toledoparent.com • July/August 2023 •

21

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22

• July/August 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

Soccer Program WINNER: Greater Toledo Futbol Club Various locations greatertoledofc.org

RUNNER UP: Toledo Celtics Soccer Club

Place to Go Ice Skating WINNER: Sylvania Tam-O-Shanter 7060 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania 419-885-1167 sylvaniatamoshanter.com RUNNER UP: The Ribbon at

Glass City Metropark metroparkstoledo.com/theribbon

Place to Play Mini-Golf WINNER: Perry Falls Mini Golf 24750 Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg 419-874-5557 facebook.com/perryfallsminigolf RUNNER UP: Sportway of Toledo

sportwayinc.com

Park or playground WINNER: Wildwood Preserve Metropark 5100 Central Ave. 419-407-9700 metroparkstoledo.com

The reason why you’ll often find people participating in photoshoots at Wildwood Preserve Metropark: its varied and scenic backdrops. Taking a stroll through the woods brings a sense of peace while you’re getting your steps in and the playground is full of fun features for kids of all ages to enjoy.

Wildwood Manor is a beautiful experience — make sure to take a tour and to explore the surrounding gardens!

toledoceltics.com

Youth Sports League WINNER: YMCA of Greater Toledo Various Locations ymcatoledo.org

RUNNER UP: Maumee Little League

maumeelittleleague.com

Sports Camp WINNER: Sylvania Recreation District 7060 Sylvania Ave., Sylvania 419-882-1500 playsylvania.com

RUNNER UP: SafeSplash Swim School

2022 THANK YOU FAMIL Y TOLEDO! FAVES VOTED BEST Pediatric Practice

WINNER

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Summer Day Camp WINNER: Toledo Zoo

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2 Hippo Way 419-385-4040 toledozoo.org

RUNNER UP: Children’s Discovery Center

childrensdiscoverycenters.com

DR. JENNIFER MURTAGH DR. MARIANNE BLACK DR. HANI HAIDAR

DR. AROUB AL-AYOUBI DR. JOHN MCBRIDE DR. TARA SHAMY

2000 Regency Ct # 103, Toledo, OH 43623

(419) 475-KIDDD (5433)

RUNNER UP: Oak Openings

Preserve Metropark metroparkstoledo.com/oakopenings

Waterpark WINNER: Kalahari Resorts Sandusky 7000 Kalahari Dr., Sandusky 877-525-2427 kalahariresorts.com

RUNNER UP: Rolf Park Pool & Waterpark

maumee.org/2023-rolf-park-pool-opening

Date Night WINNER: Souk Mediterranean Kitchen & Bar 139 S Huron St. 567-777-7685 soukkitchenbar.com

RUNNER UP: Benchmark Restaurant

benchmark-restaurant.com

Girls’ Night Out WINNER: Basil Pizza & Wine Bar 3145 Hollister Ln., Perrysburg 419-873-6218 basilpizzaandwinebar.com

RUNNER UP: Rosaria’s on 3rd St.

rosariason3rd.com

Workout for Mom WINNER: LBs Circuit Training Family Friendly Gym/ Fitness Club WINNER: YMCA of Greater Toledo

ymcatoledo.org No matter your age or the intensity of your desired workout, the YMCA offers fitness options for everyone. With a variety of group exercise classes and programs, for something more challenging, the Y also offers sessions with personal trainers who tailor workouts to individual needs.

RUNNER UP: Super Fitness

superfitnesstoledo.com

2715 Central Ave. 419- 279-5921 lbs419.com

RUNNER UP: YMCA of Greater Toledo

ymcatoledo.org

Spa Day for Mom WINNER: Dahlia Beauty Bar

5911 Weckerly Rd., Whitehouse dahliabeautybar@gmail.com dahliabeautybarohio.com

RUNNER UP: Serenity Health & Wellness Center serenitywellness1.com

www.toledoparent.com • July/August 2023 •

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digital age Preserves IsDishtory Your Childon Food Teen Safety and Familyto Memories Addicted Social Media Social Media?

New app developed by Toledoans creates audio heirlooms by recording recipes

By Mary Kulczak APA releases 10Rose new Tips to help teens stay guidelines

It all started with a cookie. Dan ZaBegin at the beginningDr. Ashley Muszynski has been practicing wisza was hoping to re-create the perfect Zawisza, a lifelong resident of Toledo sugar cookie from his childhood, so he pediatrics for eight years. 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. myThe mother,” Zawisza said.

“Looking to about Psychological AssociaInAmerican light of media coverage “Chris started from the beginning by share the sugar cookies I remembered saying, don’t know what we don’t the harmful effectsreleased that appsasuch as‘Weadtion (APA) recently health or watch that ne That being said, there have also from my youth with my own family, know,’” Zawisza said. “So we went to Instagram have onforlimiting young people, I wanted to get hercan cookie recipe visory as guidelines for social before you go to been effects with social media, as many Northwest Ohiopositive resources as From a parental perspective, the myself.

Afterparents a game ofare phone tag, my many wondering how they we could find. Weespecially talked to the Chammedia use among adolescents. a few hours a da in its ability to connect people mom called me back and left a voicemail guidelines can beofdaunting, but the APA can protect their kids. Is it okayber, for yourLaunchduring Rocket and Jump Start to Snapchat and go theapp. toughest lockdowns at describing how she used to make the10 recomThe advisory includes help lay the foundation for the In child tothat’s usewhen social promotional items, and Solustresses that these are merely cookies, and themedia? concept If so, how can or...anythin pandemic.

Butguidelines ofDouble Acook addition, we usedthe localbeginning resources likeof the mendations based on feedback from an tions for the app’s development.” of Dishtory was After listening to they do soborn. safely? and anforend-all-be-all for your child’s (the law firm) Eastman andnot Smith Also, curate yo course, moderation is key.

Kozak knew that he wanted this app advisory of health to help the voicemail,panel I realized I now have experts this Seeking guidance, we reached out toFront Door legal help, Marketing for to be something that was accessible to mental development. people who mak recipe (preserved) for the rest of my life, parents create healthy safeHealth, social Caroline Fenkel atand Charlie all members of news the family while also andDr. in my mom’s voice.”

DidThe it surprise you when yourself or your APA notes that using social being user-friendly.

“From the onset, we media practicesvirtual with their children. the first-ever mental health The broke that Facebook’s own report any bully media “is not inherently wanted this tobeneficial be a multi-generational clinic for high-acuity patients.

Themedia clinic recommendations include social research showed its photo-and app, meaning it would be easy for users passive-a cludes or harmful to young people” and is servespromoting teens and young adultsonline strugof all ages regardless of their technologiliteracy, a healthy video-sharing app, Instagram, and anonymous “dependent on [an] adolescents’ own cal capabilities,” Kozak said.

“Additiongling with mental health and substance teenage girls? environment and ensuring that the use can be toxic for ally, is your mental h I think Dishtory can help bring personal and psychological characterisuse disorders.

Fenkel, a licensed clinical Why? families together by sharing memories you haveConnect a socia of social media does not interfere with Zawisz social worker, is its co-founder and chief tics and social meaning through meals theyand remember Definitely not acircumstances,” surprise to me, I from that is positive fo sleep and/or physical activity, among download years ago.” clinical officer. She shared some warneach child is that different andprovide matures at amaybe even would assume most who to theteac kitc others. ing signs to watch for as well as tips for mental health services for adolescentsto debut different pace.

From development can makememories a huge “The b helping your teen maintain balance in Kozak was no stranger to the kitchen. would agree.Muszynski, It’s pretty obvious even Ashley MD, a pediatri• More instructors cluded in With a family background in the restautheir digital lives. when you scroll through your own What are cooksom toge at ProMedica Oregon rantPhysicians business, he knew how important • Morecian studios grandpare Instagram feed — let alone the media feedsave of recipes addicti it was to record and that Pediatrics, says that social is a digital You have worked with youth• More opportunities! and work be passed A simple threean average teenagercould — that the down. platform Broadly speak a deliciou double-edged sword, andallows — when button design users tonot record, and families for more than 13 is designed to promote an idealized tionship to devic adults and review and save thoseharm recipes with their used correctly — can do more years. What kind of changes kids version or curated sense of reality. But ing, etc. iswalk what’s smartphones. have you seen in your teen the recipe thanofgood.

“It actively [social media] can give a in “The launch has been an exercise most us aren’t thinking about attention to. The pictures o patience,” Kazak explains.

“Dan and clients with the rise of social child a sense community by connectthat when we’reof scrolling, especially ous thing to note ence of co I have been working on this for more media? me younger peoplepeople, who follow influencing to other especially smaller best way family to dete than two years, so thein launch didn’t With a lot of our teen and young is recorde We’re veryto excited to person ha ers who have huge happen swayitovernight. over young school districts, but can their also lead Sign up for Music generation finally share this with the world, and to adult patients, there’s a complicated They’re bright and start shiny and to ship with techno yourreceive children comparing Lessonsaudiences. and help everyone themselves saving and sharing relationship with social media. We’re perfect and don’t usually disclose thecan lead app it exists onThe a spe their memories.” social media influencers which seeing skyrocketing rates of youth stores, th murkier parts of their lives, so it makes person to person

safe and find balance

By By Andrew Laurie Kersten Bertke

Making sense of the recommendations

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to insecurity, anxiety and depression.” anxiety, depression, and suicidality, sense that their followers would think ship to Instagram This why Muszynski but I wouldn’t necessarily (or directly) Registration that their is own lives will never believes measure phone begins to Exp:1/15/22 attribute this solely to the increase in parents need to play a large role in their up. ships, that’s whe social media use. Nonetheless, we know child’s social media lives, and for they to reevaluate its It’s dangerous and irresponsible that social media has played a huge role should start with social media literacy,lower self-esteem both the platforms and the influencers in exacerbating what may have been towhich continue to peddle false narracomes in at this number nine on participation in a Gift Certificates benign mental health challenges. tive, especially around body image. enjoy, increased Available APA’s guidelines.

To give an example, someone might There’s an incredible amount of try pro-to teachdisconnection, h “Parents should actively be looking for healthy recipes on Instaeating•disorder content on Instagram 26 • November/December www.toledoparent.com their children social media literacy to ger than usual, d gram. They already have underlying isthat’s masked as wellness, fitness, etc. and disproportio help them understand what’s sues around body image, but Instagram And it’s teaching young people thathappen-bing, screaming, picks up on the user’s interest in healthy smaller ing in isthe world that when better; thatsoaltering your they body seethe idea of losing eating and slowly takes them down a online, the message orloving imageit won’t isitbetter than accepting and for ogy and/or platf rabbit hole that can lead to posts probe misconstrued,” Dr. Muszynski what it is. Lots of research found that says, moting restrictive eating and ultimately rates of eating increased adding that disorders it’s important for in parents What are the facilitate the development of disordered young girls during the pandemic, and addiction, and to look at screen time usage as a whole, eating or potentially more severe chalI not absolutely thinkmedia that’s because there parents respo just social use.

According to lenges. This is just one example, but it was more time to scroll and compare.

Children’s Hospital of Orange Countyseeing these w can manifest with almost any insecurity Living with a (California)(CHOC), overyou 65 percent or seemingly benign inquiry.

What guidelines would offer of be thought of thr Other negative effects range from than four hours on addictions: it chi toteens helpspend teensmore use social media increased feelings of loneliness and their phones daily. safely? identity, it cuts th isolation, worsening sense of self-worth, “There have been a lot Be of studies The first step is awareness. aware that relationships and addictive tendencies with the technolofshow whenblue-light and how much you’re on social emitting devices suchand it makes par ogy itself…all of the issues circulating in media.

Maybe don’tcan need to look life nearly impos as phones oryou tablets affect theatnatuthe news right now have been presentyour Instagram asof soon as you wake up ral production melatonin in a child’s ing clinically for years.

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body,” says Dr. Muszynski, adding that www.toledoparent.com •J if you start by limiting screen time, it will be easier to enforce social media rules in the house.

Find the recommendations, in full, at apa.org..

24

• July/August 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

healthy kids Little Bugs, Big Problem

Local biz Rapunzel’s Lice Boutique delivers results

By Kim Krieger

While lice may be tiny, they are often the cause of big headaches for parents dealing with these pesky bugs. Hearing your child say, “my head itches” often causes parents to panic and start scratching their own scalps as they consider what steps to take next.

For nearly ten years, Rapunzel’s Lice Boutique in Toledo has been helping families who desperately want to get rid of the annoying little lice. At this professional lice treatment facility, trained technicians use an FDA-cleared medical device to kill lice and eggs in a single treatment.

Lice – more common than you’d think

According to the CDC, nearly 6 to 12 million lice infestations occur each year in the United States among children 3 to 11 years of age.

Head lice are not a sign of dirty hair or poor hygiene. They do not jump, swim, or fly and cannot infest an environment.

The primary way that lice are spread is from head-to-head contact. Symptoms of lice include intense itching on the scalp and the sensation of something crawling or moving in the hair. If you’ve been near someone with lice or are experiencing these symptoms, it’s time to get checked and treated, if necessary.

Local treatment facility

Rapunzel’s was founded in 2008 by Sarah Casello-Rees as a small mobile operation. As the business grew, the first storefront location was opened in Michigan in 2009. Phil Brechting and his business partner purchased the business from Sarah and now operate lice removal clinics in Michigan, Ohio and Florida.

Treatment for head lice

If head lice are suspected, it is recommended that every member of the family be checked. It is also important to notify your child’s school or daycare, friends and anyone who has been in close contact with your child.

“We recommend that all family members come in to get screened and treated if needed,” shared Phil Brechting, owner of Rapunzel’s Hair Boutique. “Our treat-

Hands You Trust

ment process includes the AirAllé Treatment, a comb-out to remove the dead lice and eggs, and an oil application. This treatment process usually takes about 1 to 1 ½ hours and is 99.2 percent effective.”

At Rapunzel’s Lice Boutique, trained practitioners use the AirAllé device to blow heated air along the scalp and hair shafts where the lice and eggs tend to be located. The single-use applicator blows air at a cooler temperature and higher flow than a hair dryer. This treatment method kills the lice and their eggs through dehydration. No pesticides or other chemicals are used in the therapy.

The treatment also includes a 30-60 minute comb-out to remove the dead lice and eggs.

A variety of treatment products are also available for purchase on Rapunzel’s website, including a nit comb, lint roller, treatment packages, shampoos and more.

After Treatment Care

While head lice do not survive long if they fall off a person and cannot feed, there are still steps you should take to avoid re-infestation.“Once you’ve been treated for lice, we recommend some simple home-care steps including vacuuming the carpets, using a lint roll on furniture and drying bedding on high heat for 30 minutes,” Brechting added.

Other helpful steps recommended by Rapunzel’s Hair Boutique include freezing brushes, combs and hair ties for four hours.

Rapunzel’s Hair Boutique, 2525 N. Reynolds Rd., Ste. 6. Monday through Saturday 10 am – 7 pm, Sunday 10 am – 3 pm. 419-2169447. rapunzelslice.com.

Since day one of your child’s life, you’ve been all hands in. At Cleveland Clinic Children’s, we make our patients a very similar promise: to be the hands you can trust, no matter what care is needed.

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www.toledoparent.com • July/August 2023 •

6/13/23 3:34 PM

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family matters

Life as a New Mom

Getting to know WTOL’s Zeinab Cheaib

By Emily Remaklus

When we tune in to local TV news, we see familiar faces we’ve grown to trust. While we recognize the newscasters and maybe even feel we know them, there’s a lot more to learn about these local journalists. Zeinab Cheaib, a reporter for WTOL, Channel 11, shares a bit more about herself, her role as a journalist and her newest role as a mom.

Living her dream in her hometown

While some TV reporters have to move across the country to find a position, Cheaib was fortunate to find a job in her hometown. Born and raised in Toledo, Cheaib graduated from Whitmer High School, and then attended college at The University of Toledo, where she studied communication, focusing on broadcast journalism. She has since fulfilled her dream by becoming a local reporter at WTOL. “That’s the beauty of Toledo. You don’t have to leave to live your dream,” explained Cheaib.

Her favorite part about being a journalist is meeting new people.“Everyone has a story, and I’m blessed to be in a

N

position where I can share unique and interesting stories with the world. That’s what got me into journalism. I love meeting people and getting to know them,” Cheaib said.

Life as a mom

This past fall, Cheaib took an absence from the television screen. In September, she gave birth to her first child, a daughter named Elissar (Elise for short).

This newest role is one that Cheaib adores. “I absolutely love watching my baby grow. She looks completely different from when she was first born, and I get to be there through all her firsts.”

But the job of “mom” naturally comes with challenges, Cheaib said. “The biggest challenge is figuring everything out. She’s my first baby, so it was hard, but I think I’m getting the hang of it…I hope,” she laughed.

Cheaib shared that the best piece of advice she has for other new moms is to not be afraid to ask for help. “There’s no way I would be able to do everything by myself without the help of my family, especially my mom.”

May 11th VISIT PERRYSBURG Thursdays, through September 21st

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What is your favorite thing about living in Toledo? My family! Toledo is a great place to live, raise a family, find a job and get a good education.

What is your favorite dinner spot in the area? I have to pick one? I would say J. Alexander’s, but if you want a dinner with a view, definitely Real Seafood at The Docks. Oh wait! There’s also The Heights! I just can’t pick one!

If you could change one thing in this world right now, what would it be?

For everyone to have access to clean water.

What’s your favorite way to spend a free day? Believe it or not, the perfect day would be relaxing at home and watching a good movie!

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from 4-8pm in the Perrysburg Historic District

MARKET DAYS 2023

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Q&A with Zeinab Cheaib

8

Weather dependent.

Bring a chair!

Thursdays = DORA BOUNDARIESfrom 7-8:30pm June through August

Where are you most excited to take Elissar when she gets older?

I CAN’T WAIT to see her reaction when she goes to Disney for the first time!

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What was the last really good book you’ve read? Does poetry count? If so, try 2am Thoughts.

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27

RTKE RIE BE

BY LAU

Breakfast Burger

PHOTO

Kid-Approved Foods, Friendly Atmosphere

Ralphie’s Sports Eatery checks all the boxes

Casual dining for families

Ralphie’s Sports Eatery has been a Toledo mainstay since the first location opened in 1991 on Navarre Ave. The regional chain is owned by Bennett Enterprises of Perrysburg, a family-owned business and the largest restaurant and hotel owner/operator in Northwest Ohio.

Mark Wallace, who oversees Ralphie’s operations for Bennett Enterprises, says the company developed the concept for the chain around the time the wings fad was expanding in the market. The restaurants were named after the architect who worked on the original layouts, who was also a good friend of company co-founder David Bennett.

“Our burgers, our chicken chunks and our chicken wings are the top three items we sell,” says Wallace. “We have several appetizers that are unique, and then just a lot of the typical pub food.”

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URIE B

Champion Chicken Chunks kids meal

URIE BERTKE PHOTO BY LA

When our kids were younger, we rarely ventured out to restaurants, largely because it just felt like too much work. If we did eat out, the spot we chose had to meet very specific criteria to minimize the risk of disaster.

Ralphie’s Sports Eatery is the type of restaurant that would have checked all the boxes for us in those days. Chicken nuggets? Check. Relatively fast service to accommodate squirmy toddlers?

Check. Moderate noise level to mask the occasional high-pitched baby squeal, shriek or meltdown? Check. Kids eat free? Yep — every Tuesday.

While our kids are older now, they still love the menu at Ralphie’s, loaded with all the classics you would expect.

Guests can choose from an array of burgers, chicken chunks or wings and four different types of fries — waffle, crinkle, hand-cut and sweet potato.

The menu also offers a nice variety of other hot sandwiches, soups, salads and shareable appetizers.

BY LA

Locations in Oregon, Toledo, Holland and Findlay Visit ralphies.com/locations for individual locations, contact and hours

Guests can choose from 18 different sauces ranging from mild to very hot for the chicken chunks and wings. The rest of the menu is updated regularly with a combination of old favorites and new items, and the Spring Meadows and Ralphie’s To-Go location on Monroe St. also serve JoJo’s pizza. The full bar has a selection of rotating craft beers, and the decor is that of a standard sports bar with walls lined with neon beer signs and flat screen televisions tuned in to various sporting events and Keno drawings. Several locations have outdoor patios.

“We’re just a nice, casual-dine location geared towards families,” says Wallace. “We do a lot with our local communities, especially with sponsorships and support for high school sports programs.”

PHOTO

Ralphie’s Sports Eatery

ERTKE

By Laurie Bertke

Fast, friendly service

We stopped in at the Spring Meadows location in Holland for lunch on a Friday afternoon and were promptly seated in a roomy booth and greeted by our friendly server. Our drinks were served and we were able to place our order within about five or ten minutes of arriving.

My oldest went for the classic cheeseburger and waffle fries. My 11-year-old son opted to be more adventurous by ordering the breakfast burger, topped with a fried egg, bacon and cheese.

Some of the other unique burger toppings on the menu include peach habañero or strawberry jalapeño jam, peanut butter and bacon, or mac ’n cheese.

My daughter ordered the Champion Chicken Chunks off the menu for kids ages 10 and under. For $4.99, kids receive an entree, choice of side, a drink and a bag of Goldfish crackers. Guests can receive a free kids meal with each purchase of a regular adult meal on Tuesdays.

I opted for the chicken tenders wrap, which comes with lettuce, tomato and ranch dressing in a soft tortilla. My husband ordered the Philly steak and cheese, featuring shaved ribeye, sauteed

3.5/5 with 459 reviews

Chicken Tenders Wrap

mushrooms, onions, green peppers and melted mozzarella on a sub bun.

Our table sampled the crinkle cut fries, the waffle fries and the hand cut fries. We all agreed our favorites are the waffle fries, which have a nice light seasoning.

Our total bill before tip came to just over sixty dollars, which is pretty typical if not on the lower end of what it usually costs to eat out with our family these days.

Bottom line

While there is nothing particularly unique about the tried-and-true sports bar formula employed by Ralphie’s, the atmosphere is friendly and prices are reasonable, especially if you take advantage of the Kids Eat Free promotion on Tuesdays. Whether you are looking

4.1/5 with 889 reviews

• July/August 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

for a comfortable spot to gather with a group or just need a night off from cooking, Ralphie’s is a Toledo favorite that checks all the boxes for families with young children.

The Short Course Online ordering? Yes Carryout? Yes Delivery? Yes, through Doordash Outdoor Dining? Yes, at Oregon, Holland and Findlay locations Changing Table? Yes Booster Seat/High Chair? Yes

2.5/5 with 48 review

CALENDAR

JULY

SATURDAY, July 1

God’s Eye Crafting Afternoon Throwback to everyone’s favorite summer camp craft! Participants can stop in anytime from 1-4pm to create at their own pace. Carter Historic Farm, 18331 Carter Rd., Bowling Green. woodcountyparkdistrict.org Free Diamonds in the Rough Weekly Workshops Free fun-filled Saturday enrichment workshops, including sign language, chess, arts in the park, intro to fishing, personal fitness, anti-bullying awareness and character building. Runs each Saturday in July. 9:30am-4pm. Joe E. Brown Park, 3304 Blanchard St. toledo.oh.gov Free Fireworks in the 419 The annual downtown Toledo fireworks along the Maumee River. Find a viewing spot in downtown Toledo along the riverfront. Promenade Park, International Park and Glass City Metropark will be open for residents to watch fireworks.

10pm. Downtown Toledo.

MONDAY, July 3

Maumee/Perrysburg Fort Meigs Fireworks The cities of Maumee and Perrysburg will co host the traditional 4th of July fireworks. Fort Meigs Historic Site will allow visitors on their property for the annual event. Food trucks will be on site to provide refreshments. 9:30-10:30pm.

Fort Meigs, 29100 W. River Rd., Perrysburg. ci.perrysburg.oh.us

TUESDAY, July 4

Independence Day 1813 Join Fort Meigs as they recreate Independence Day 1813 with weapons demos, historic music presentations and civilian activities. $5 children, $8 seniors, $10 adults. 9:30am-5pm. Fort Meigs, 29100 W. River Rd., Perrysburg. fortmeigs.org

THURSDAY, July 6

Art Adventures with Spin and Splat Art Studio Kids can get messy and unleash their inner artist. Registration is required. Kids should wear clothes that can get paint on them. 11am-noon. Also on Monday, July 24. South Branch Library, 1736 Broadway St. toledolibrary.org YMCA Fun Bus Free recreational activities. This location will run each Thursday in July. 1-2pm.

Riverside Elementary, 500 Chicago St. toledo.oh.gov Free

FRIDAY, July 7

Park Cleanup at Savage Park Summer of Mind and Body Empowering Youth, revolves around six exciting themed activities. Make a positive impact on your community by joining our park cleanup event. Register on Eventbrite.

2:30pm. Rev. H. V. Savage Park, 650 Nebraska Ave.

Rally by the River Celebrate summer along the river and enjoy the Front Street Parade, Chicken BBQ, the Annual Rubber Duck Race and more!

5pm. Also on Saturday, July 8 at 10am and Sunday, July 9 at 11am. Downtown Grand Rapids, Front St., Grand Rapids. visitgrandrapidsohio.com

Oak Openings Family Camp-Out

Come gather around the campfire and enjoy the beautiful Oak Openings Preserve Metropark with the ones you love. Bring the family for a fun outdoor experience including nature games, campfire cooking and a night hike. $22 per person. Saturday, July 8. Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 4139 Girdham Rd, Swanton. metroparkstoledo.com/oakopenings

Chinese Art & Culture Day Camp

Hosted by the Chinese Center of Toledo, this week-long half-day day camp offers Chinese brush painting and crafts, martial arts, and Chinese dance and games.

Register on Eventbrite. $10. 9am-noon. Runs from July 10 through July 14. Liz Pearson Shelter at Ottawa Park, 2301 Gunckel Blvd. chinesecenteroftoledo.org

SATURDAY, July 8

Disabled and Proud Fest The 2023 Disabled and Proud Fest welcomes those of all abilities to celebrate the disability experience in Toledo!

An all-day event with fun activities, DJ, food trucks and an all-abilities 3 vs. 3 wheelchair basketball tournament for youth and adults. 9am-6pm. Levis Square, 425 N. St. Clair St. toledo.oh.gov Family Fun Days Join TAPA in the Park this summer for family fun music time. The event will include instrument petting zoos, crafts and other activities. For ages 3-adult. No registration required, drop in at your leisure. 11am2pm. Junction Park, 419 Junction Ave. toledo.oh.gov Free 1st Annual Mom Prom The Program Inc. will host the 1st Annual Mom Prom. This mother/son dance will have dinner, dancing, some fun giveaways and memories. Tickets available on Eventbrite. 6-9pm. Glass City Center,401 Jefferson Ave. programinc.org’

SUNDAY, July 9

Family Day: Inflatables Bring the family out to Hensville Park before the game for Family Day as it turns into a gigantic inflatable playground! Make your way through the obstacle course, jump in the bounce house, play the inflatable games, or try your skills at the speed pitch.

All Family Day events are free with a Mud Hens game ticket. Noon. Hensville, 406 Washington St. mlb.tickets.com

Monday, July 10

Musically Me Move, sing, clap, dance and listen to music together with your child! Music is a whole-body activity for children and their caregivers. This activity is designed for babies and toddlers accompanied by a caregiver. Register online.

10:30am-noon. The Ability Center, 5605 Monroe St. abilitycenter.org

Toledo Pride

Join Toledo Pride as we line Adams street in Downtown Toledo once again to show our support for the area LGBTQIA+ community at the annual Pride Parade. Afterwards, the Toledo Pride Main Event kicks off at Promenade Park. Noon-10pm.

Saturday, August 10. Promenade Park, 400 Water St. toledopride.com

18th Annual African American Parade and Festival

The parade will start at 10am Saturday, July 15. After the parade, a community fun day filled with family activities, entertainment, food and fellowship will take place in the park. 10am-3pm. Nelson Grace Park, 1001 N. Detroit Ave. toledourban.net

THURSDAY, July 13

Get Your Game On: eSports Tournament and Community Movie Night Win the tournament and receive a prize!

This evening is also a Friends and Family Game Night. There will be oversized games like Jenga, Connect 4 and the eSports tournament. Vivo will be shown at 7pm. 5:30-8:30pm. Woodsdale Park, 1226 Woodsdale Ave. toledo.oh.gov Free

FRIDAY, July 14

Art in Willys Park Summer of Mind and Body Empowering Youth, revolves around six exciting themed activities. Everyone is an artist with chalk! Create a masterpiece on the sidewalk. Afterward, walk the sidewalk gallery and see others’ artwork. 2:303:30pm. Willys Complex Pool, 1375 Hillcrest Ave. toledo.oh.gov Free

WEDNESDAY, July 19

Farm to Table with the Farm Bureau All about farms around us and the food they provide. 10:30-11:30am.

Swanton Public Library, 305 Chestnut St., Swanton. Swantonpubliclibrary.org Free

Wiggle Wednesday Kids’ Club Wiggle Wednesday is a monthly interactive children’s entertainment and education series courtesy of Toledo WEDNESDAY, July 12 Area Parent and Franklin Park Mall with YMCA Fun Bus activities courtesy of organizations like Free recreational activities for youth in Snapology contributing! Registration Toledo neighborhoods. 12:30-2pm. is not required but recommended to Navarre Park, 907 White St. toledo.oh.gov receive additional perks & prizes. 11amFree 12:30pm. Franklin Park Mall, 5001 Monroe St. visitfranklinparkmall.com Kids Kayak, Paddle & Play Youth paddlers prepare to get soaked!

Art Adventures with Spin 11-14 year-olds learn proper paddling and Splat Art Studio strokes and safety procedures to enjoy Kids can get messy and unleash their safe kayaking. After instruction, take inner artist. Registration is required. Kids part in a series of competitive solo and should wear clothes that can get paint on team on-the-water games to build comfort them. 2-3pm. Point Place Branch Library, and confidence. Kayaks, gear and PFDs 2727 117th St. toledolibrary.org provided. Registration is required by July 9. $12-$15. 1-4pm. W.W. Knight Nature Preserve, 29530 White Rd., Perrysburg. woodcountyparkdistrict.org

THURSDAY, July 20

Community Movie Nights Free weekly movie nights in different city parks across the city. Patrons are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a movie under the stars. DC League of Super Pets will be shown. 7pm. Navarre Park, 907 White St. toledo.oh.gov Free

FRIDAY, July 21

Christmas in July It’s a slice of Lights WAY Before Christmas... (Not the full electrical spectacle, though!) Listen to holiday music while strolling through the Zoo’s south side. Enjoy strolling performances, glow-in-the-dark mini golf, festive crafts and more! $13-$15, Zoo members free. 7-11pm. Also on Saturday, July 22.

Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org

SATURDAY, July 22

Family Fun Days Join TAPA in the Park this summer for family fun music time. The event will include instrument petting zoos, crafts and other activities. For ages 3-adult.

No registration required, drop in at your leisure. 11am-2pm. Also on Saturday, July 29. Danny Thomas Park, 2101 Broadway St. toledo.oh.gov The Ability Center’s Library Takeover Empower, Educate, and Explore: The Ability Center Takes Over Toledo’s Library! Toledo’s downtown branch will host fun and educational activities during this family-friendly event to empower, educate and include people of all abilities. Noon-4pm. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary.org Free Art Loop: Summer Spectacular Art Loop Summer Spectacular will be a mix of the usual Art Loop favorites; artist make-and-takes, creative spaces, food trucks, live art, music and fun!

2-6pm. Uptown, Madison & Adams. theartscommision.org

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SUNDAY, July 23

Toledo Mud Hens Christmas in July Sundays are family days at Fifth Third Field with the Toledo Mud Hens.

Celebrate Christmas in July with The Mean One and Cindy Lou, available for a meet and greet from 1-5pm. Come out and say hello!

12:30-4pm. Fifth Third Field, 406 Washington St. mlb.tickets.com Soccer Sundays by TOPSoccer Participants are not limited based on ability. Kids can experience the game while teaming with other players in their peer group. 1-2pm. Maumee Soccer Centre, 1620 Marketplace Dr., Maumee. toledo.oh.gov Free

MONDAY, July 24

Helping Your K-3 Reader Let Ready to Read support you and your K-3 child on their reading journey.

Participating caregivers will receive a Ready to Read K-3 toolkit, filled with tools and activities to help strengthen reading skills. The Ready to Read

program is designed to support parents and caregivers. Children do not need to attend. Registration is required.

11am-noon. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary.org

WEDNESDAY, July 26

Animal Detective with Toledo GROWs Learn about a variety of animal traits and characteristics using hands-on materials.

Explore scat, tracks, fur and camouflage while learning about animals found in Ohio. 2-3pm. South Branch Library, 1736 Broadway St. toledolibrary.org Free

AUGUST THURSDAY, Aug. 3

End of Summer Party Celebrate the end of summer at your library with face painting, food and fun.

2-3:30pm. Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Rd., Maumee. toledolibrary. org

FRIDAY, Aug. 4

Babytime This storytime focuses on developing your baby’s early literacy skills. Babies 0-18 months will be introduced to songs, movement, rhythm and rhyme designed to foster a love of books and reading.

9:45 am – 10:05 am. Point Place Branch Library, 2727 117th Street. Free.

St. George Cathedral Summer Festival This festival lasts through the weekend and will feature local bands, Middle Eastern music, a belly dancer and dancing will entertain the crowd throughout the weekend. Middle Eastern and American food will be available for purchase, and there will be a children’s area. 5pm Friday, 4 pm Saturday and 12 pm Sunday. St George Orthodox Cathedral, 3754 Woodley Rd. $5.

SATURDAY, Aug. 5

Create Community Art Fest Gather your creative energy for an afternoon filled with art, vendors, yoga, dance, outdoor games, workshops, healing sessions, and crafts. 1-8pm.

Ordinary Pioneer, 6901 Providence St., Whitehouse. Ordinarypioneer.com Free

WEDNESDAY, Aug. 9

Merrill Rainey - OINK! I’m a Pig Release Party Gathering Volumes is excited to welcome back Merrill Rainey for the launch of OINK! I’m a Pig! Meet the artist/author and learn about his unique new book series. 6-7:30pm. Gathering Volumes, 196 E. South Boundary St., Perrysburg. gatheringvolumes.com

THURSDAY, Aug. 10

Community Movie Nights Free weekly movie night. Patrons are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a movie under the stars. Guardians of the Galaxy will be shown. Join in before the movie for fun activities. Play oversized games like Jenga and Connect 4 and eSports video games. There will also be giveaways.

7pm. Ottawa Park, 2205 Kenwood Blvd. toledo.oh.gov Free Cops & Bobbers Kids 10 and younger, accompanied by a parent or guardian can Fish the Maumee River at Vet’s Park with the Rossford Police Department on Thursdays through August 17, 10am - 2pm, weather permitting. All equipment provided.

Positive messages, such as drug abuse prevention and other topics, will be discussed as the kids interact with RPD Officers. Big fish and other awards will be recognized at the end of the summer.

Veteran’s Memorial Park, 340 Jennings Rd. Free.

FRIDAY, Aug. 11

Wild About Art Join the Toledo Zoo for a two-day art fair that takes place throughout Zoo grounds.

This unique show features local and regional artists with various mediums on display and for sale. Enjoy artist and animal painting demos, live musical entertainment and more! 10am-5pm.

Also on Sunday, Aug. 12, 10am-4pm.

Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org

WEDNESDAY, Aug. 16

Wiggle Wednesday Kids’ Club Wiggle Wednesday is a monthly interactive children’s entertainment and education series courtesy of Toledo Area Parent and Franklin Park Mall. Registration is not required but recommended to receive additional perks & prizes. 11am-12:30pm. Franklin Park Mall, 5001 Monroe St. franklinparkmall.com

THURSDAY, Aug. 17

Family Pride Night Enjoy family-friendly games and activities in honor of Toledo Pride. 5-8pm.Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary.org Free

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• July/August 2023 • www.toledoparent.com

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The Right Start, Right Now Alongside our partner provider schools, HOPE Toledo Pre-K is bringing high-quality preschool education to kids throughout our area. Enroll today and make sure your 4-year-old gets the strong start they need to succeed—in kindergarten and beyond.

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To find a HOPE Toledo Pre-K provider near you, scan the code or visit HopeToledoPreK.com. Space is limited.

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www.toledoparent.com • July/August 2023 •

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• July/August 2023 • www.toledoparent.com