Graceful Living Summer/Fall 2023

LIVING S U M M E R / FA L L 2 0 2 3

IN THE HABIT OF

HAPPINESS

FINDLAY’S SISTERS RADIATE JOY & DEVOTION

SWEETSUCCESS

SPANGLER CANDY COMPANY STICKS WITH NOSTALGIA

BELIEFBROADCASTING

HOLY FAMILY RADIO IS TUNED TO THE FREQUENCY OF FAITH

PEDALPATHS

IT’S THE PERFECT TIME FOR A SUMMER BIKE RIDE

VINOVENTURES

NORTHWEST OHIO WINERIES ARE WORTH THE DRIVE A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E D I O C E S E O F T O L E D O

With immense immensegratitude, gratitude,we wethank thankthe theover over12,000 12,000 With generous across the the Diocese Diocese of of Toledo, Toledo,who who generous families families across driven by their their tremendous tremendousfaith, faith,have havecome cometogether togethertoto driven by make initiative aa resounding resoundingsuccess! success! make this this historic historic initiative

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f you notyour yet done so,and please join ussupport with your prayers oin have us with prayers financial as we shareand the Living financial support as weofshare the Living Christ to enhance the future of Christ for the future our church in Northwest Ohio for generations our tochurch come. in Northwest Ohio for generations to come.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

livingchristcampaign.org

Graceful

LIVING

1 9 3 3 S P I E L B U S C H AV E .

TO LE D O, O H 4 3 6 0 4 (419) 244-6711

P U B L I S H E R

MOST REV. DANIEL E. THOMAS B i s h o p , D i o c e s e o f To l e d o KELLY DONAGHY S e n i o r D i r e c t o r, C o m m u n i c a t i o n s KEITH TARJANYI M a n a g e r, C r e a t i v e S e r v i c e s ANNIE LUST Social Media & Communications Manager NATHAN VOLKER Sales & Production Specialist ELISHA VALLADARES-CORMIER Contributing Writer SCOTT W. GRAU Contributing Photographer Graceful Living is a special interest magazine of the Diocese of Toledo, in particular for our senior parishioners. Stories of the lives of Catholic seniors contributing their talents to our parish communities are highlighted. If you are interested in sponsorship, donations or advertising, please contact the Communications Department of the Diocese of Toledo: 419-214-4876

BISHOP DANIEL E. THOMAS Rev. Msgr. William J. Kubacki Vicar General & Moderator of the Curia Rev. Msgr. Walter R. Oxley Senior Director/Vicar for Clergy Clergy, Consecrated Life & Vocations Sr. Rose Marie Timmer, RSM Chancellor Mr. Matthew J. Daniels Senior Director, Catholic Education Ms. Kelly M. Donaghy Senior Director, Communications

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F R O M

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Dear Friends in Christ, I hope this finds you happy and healthy this summer season as we begin to celebrate, nationwide, the “parish year” of the National Eucharistic Revival! I hope you were able to join us for one of the eucharistic events that took place throughout the diocese in the last six months and are helping in your own parish to make the “parish year” a success, as together we deepen our understanding of, love for, and living out of the Holy Eucharist.

It really is a delight to share this edition of Graceful Living with you where we feature the joyful witness of Sr. Mary Bethany and the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist. We also meet Fr. Jeremy Miller who enjoys being the pastor of Corpus Christi University Parish where his tennis background helps him integrate into campus life.

Earlier this year I thoroughly enjoyed touring and meeting the people behind Bryan, Ohio’s own Spangler Candy Company. Read about this family company and how their ties to their employees and community have created a successful company for 100 years! We have in this edition a great story about Nate Stant, one of only ten 2023 recipients of the National Catholic Educational Association’s Teach.

Lead. Proclaim Awards which recognize outstanding Catholic school educators and leaders throughout the country.

Permit me also to introduce you to Holy Family Radio in Glandorf and Mary Ann Dietering who, along with her late husband Tom, started the station that now reaches 250,000 people throughout Northwest Ohio. What a gift Catholic Radio is to our diocese!

Many of the articles you will read here come from your own suggestions and ideas, so please continue to support the magazine by “passing it on” to your friends and letting us know of any good ideas you have for future articles that will inspire and enrich the faith of those who enjoy Graceful Living.

Be sure of a remembrance in my prayers, even as I depend on your good prayers. With every good wish, I remain Sincerely yours in Christ Jesus, Most Reverend Daniel E. Thomas Bishop of Toledo

Mr. Bret V. Huntebrinker Senior Director, Discipleship & Family LIfe Mr. Philip R. Renda CFO, Diocese of Toledo COO, Management Corporation Mr. Rodney O. Schuster Executive Director, Catholic Social Services

GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | SUMMER/FALL 2023 3

Catholic Radio for the Diocese of Toledo On Air and On Demand at annunciationradio.com and our mobile app.

FAITH ALIVE

With Rodney Schuster

WHERE TO LISTEN Weekdays 7-9am

Thursday 4:30pm

Tuesday 4pm

WNOC 89.7 FM in Bowling Green & Toledo

WHRQ 88.1 FM in Sandusky & Port Clinton

WFOT 89.5 FM … and be sure to listen for these weekly local programs: • Understanding Scripture with Father Dave Nuss • Say Yes To Life with Peter Range • The Virtuous Life with Patricia Oedy-Murray • Faith With Reasons with Ron Finn and Shayne Stanfield

in Lexington & Mansfield

Plus national programs, including Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Connection, The Doctor Is In, Take 2, Called to Communion, Kresta in the Afternoon and more.

On Demand on the Annunciation Radio app and at annunciationradio.com

4 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

WSHB 90.9 FM in Willard

WRRO 89.9 FM in Bryan

A N N U N C I AT I O N R A D I O : P O B O X 14 0 3 8 4 | T O L E D O , O H 4 3 614 | 419 -75 4 -10 0 9 | 87 7-275 - 8 0 9 8

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24 IN THIS ISSUE THE HABIT OF JOY: Sr. Mary Bethany, a Dominican Sister, shares the joy she and her religious sisters find in their vocation. . . . . . . . 8

CANDY LAND: The Spangler Candy Company makes life sweet for the city of Bryan's residents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

MAKE A SPLASH: If you have considered adding an ornamental pond to your landscape, here are some helpful tips . . . . . 30

FIRST COMMUNION: Several individuals share the heartwarming memories of their First Holy Communion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

WEEKEND GETAWAY: The quiet village of Archbold offers the ideal destination for a peaceful getaway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

RADIO EVANGELIZERS: Mary Ann Dietering shares how she and her late husband Tom created Holy Family Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

BIKING NW OHIO: Take a trip to one of these five NW Ohio bike trails which are sure to delight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

SERVING THE CAMPUS: Fr. Jeremy Miller has a unique approach to campus ministry at the University of Toledo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

ROAD TRIP: Think you need to book a flight to visit wine country? Think again! Check out these great NW Ohio wineries . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

ON THE COVER: Sr. Mary Bethany of the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Findlay.

Photo by Scott W. Grau/Diocese of Toledo

GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | SUMMER/FALL 2023 5

WIT H B I S H O P T H O M A S

Eucharistic Revival Gatherings Hundreds of parishioners from the southwest area of the Diocese of Toledo gathered March 19 at Kalida’s St. Michael Church for a Eucharist Revival gathering. The seven events were held for the diocesan year of the National Eucharistic Revival. These gatherings were intended to enhance understanding of, love for and living out of the Holy Eucharist.

The Young Catholic Professionals Launch Event

6 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

Toledo Regina Coeli Parish Fish Fry

A

Visit to Landeck's St. John the Baptist Parish

A visit to the Sorrowful Mother Shrine: ✓ a quiet place to enrich the body, mind and spirit ✓ located on 120 acres of woods and lawns ✓ paved pathways dotted with over 40 grottos ✓ overwhelming sense of peace and inspiration ✓ open 7 days a week dawn to dusk

4106 State Route 269, Bellevue, Ohio 44811 419-483 3435 sorrowfulmothershrine.org

GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | SUMMER/FALL 2023 7

habit tofhejoy

BY ANNIE LUST

Sr. Mary Bethany is one of four Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist who live in Findlay at the parish convent established in 2020. The four sisters teach at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic School and provide a joyful witness of consecrated religious life to everyone they meet.

8 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

If you meet Sr. Mary Bethany, chances are she will be smiling. When she talks about her family in Northern California, she grins. Chatting about playing Ultimate Frisbee with her Dominican sisters, she laughs.

Discussing Dietsch chocolate pretzels, she smirks. The topic of her Kindergarten class has her beaming.

But she is radiant when she talks about Jesus.

S

r. Mary Bethany was in middle school when her mother started attending Eucharistic Adoration at their parish in Stockton, Calif. The household was busy with six children, all homeschooled. “I realize, looking back, that she was just going to get a quiet night out,” Sr. Mary Bethany said. As a young teenager, Sr. PHOTOS BY SCOTT W. GRAU/SPECIAL TO THE DIOCESE OF TOLEDO Mary Bethany decided to join The joy-filled Dominican Sisters love keeping mind and body active, from playing board games to Ultimate Frisbee. her mother on those Tuesday evenings. To begin with, Eucharistic Adoration was something she felt TRUST HIM WITH MY HAPPINESS she should do rather than something “Looking back, that’s where my love for she wanted to do. She remembers Adoration was born but also my religious her logic: “If I believe that God is vocation,” Sr. Mary Bethany shared. real and He is in the Eucharist, But that’s not to say she immediately I should go see Him. If the Pope recognized her calling to religious life. were coming to my parish, I would In fact, Sr. Mary Bethany did not even go see him even if I didn’t feel like it.” fully understand religious life. She rarely Those visits were not immediately easy encountered religious sisters during her or comfortable. Spending the hours in childhood. Her plan was marriage and Eucharistic Adoration was work. Until having her own large Catholic family. Still, suddenly, it wasn’t. her dad, a high school theology teacher, reminded her that “Your path to heaven is I MET HIS GAZE your vocation. Whatever your vocation is One of those evenings, a young Sr. Mary will make you happiest.” As a sophomore Bethany was reading the Act of Faith in in high school, Sr. Mary Bethany attended a dark church when she looked up at the a Profession Mass for the Missionaries of monstrance, the only space illuminated. “I Charity in San Francisco. “That’s the first met His gaze,” she recalled. There was a time I realized that to be a consecrated seismic shift that happened in that instant. religious is to be the spouse of Christ,” she Suddenly she recognized God, the creator said. “It awoke the desire to respond to His of the universe. “He was there on the altar. love [through religious life].”

And He was there for me.” From that day, And that terrified her. Initially, Sr. Eucharistic Adoration was a joy rather than Mary Bethany tried to run away from that a duty. “I would count down the days,” she calling. She was finishing high school and said, anticipating her next visit to the Lord. planning for college, plagued with anxiety GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | SUMMER/FALL 2023 9

Whether cooking dinner together, playing board games or Ultimate Frisbee, or, of course, praying: “We’re on the road to Heaven together.”

SISTER MARY BETHANY

10 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

and restlessness about her plans. Then, in prayer, she realized, “[God] loves me more than I could possibly know, and I could trust Him with my happiness, even though it seemed really scary to surrender my plans.”

PHOTO COURTESY BISHOP DANIEL E. THOMAS

COMING HOME Sr. Mary Bethany put her faith and future in God’s hands, flying across the country to a discernment PHOTOS BY SCOTT W. GRAU/SPECIAL TO THE DIOCESE OF TOLEDO retreat with the Dominican The Dominican sisters who live and work with Mary Bethany (above) are, from left: Sr. Sisters of Mary, Mother Fulton Marie from Peoria, Ill., who teaches first grade, Sr. Cora Rose from Burns, Ore., who of the Eucharist in Ann teaches fifth grade and Sr. Mary Dominic from New Ulm, Minn., who teaches fourth grade.

Arbor, Mich. “It felt like The beautiful chapel (below) in their parish convent. coming home,” she recalled Mary Dominic, Fulton Marie and Cora Rose with a contented sigh. That retreat helped Sr. — is one of Sr. Mary Bethany’s favorite parts Mary Bethany realize there was nothing to fear of religious life. Whether that’s cooking dinner by surrendering her plans to God. “I didn’t need together, playing board games or Ultimate Frisbee to see the whole plan. He desired my good.” She entered the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of — and, of course, praying. “We’re on the road to Heaven together,” she said with a smile. the Eucharist after high school.

Within their convent is a chapel, where the It’s been 10 years since becoming a postulant. In sisters spend plenty of time with Jesus, present in that time, one of the great blessings has been the the Tabernacle. They visit Him at least five times opportunity to grow even deeper in love for Jesus daily: upon waking, after returning from teaching, in the Eucharist, Sr. Mary Bethany said. She and then before and after dinner as well as before the other sisters in her order spend an hour each bedtime. “We can’t bear being apart from [Jesus] morning in front of the Blessed Sacrament. “Just for more than a few hours,” the Superior Sr. Mary by being close to Christ and being filled with His Dominic adds. Sr. Mary Bethany explains, "One love, I can share His love,” she explained. of the Dominican mottos is to contemplate and to AN UNEXPECTED JOY share with others the fruit of your contemplation.”

There is plenty of opportunity to share Christ’s So, that’s what these Dominican Sisters do. They love in her classroom, a place she never expected spend time with Jesus and then share the joy of to be. “One of the surprises of embracing this what they’ve received with the students they teach, vocation was the unexpected joy I found in with St. Michael the Archangel Parish and with teaching,” Sr. Mary Bethany said. Like many the entire Diocese of Toledo.  Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist, she lives out their charism by teaching. After her final vows in 2021, Sr. Mary Bethany was sent to the newly established convent in Findlay. She and three fellow sisters teach at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic School. The Kindergarten classroom is Sr. Mary Bethany’s domain, much to her delight.

“Kindergartners especially have such pure hearts, open to receive the Word with living faith, hungry for Jesus, and eager to respond generously to His love,” she shared.

ON THE ROAD TO HEAVEN TOGETHER Community life — living together with Sisters

SUBMITTED PHOTO BY ANN

E BROSSIA

r st ficommunion

MEMORIES

excitement

"I remember the excitement of the day. My main memory is as I walked out of the pew to walk up and receive Holy Communion I looked back at my mom and dad and dad was handing mom his handkerchief because she was shedding tears of joy."

Sharon Calvelage St John the Baptist, Glandorf

singing

"[I remember] the dress my mother made for me (and even though it’s 68 years old, I still have it) and the song we sang, “Oh, Lord, I Am Not Worthy.” I still think of that song and its words every single time I go to Communion."

"The most important day of my life up until this day was not my ordination or the day I was named a bishop, as people often guess. It was the day I received my First Holy Communion. My memories are very vivid. We wore all white, so I wore a white suit and white bucks … but the deeper memories beyond the clothing were the memories of preparing to welcome Jesus into my heart, soul and body."

Bishop Daniel E. Thomas

Mary Jo Schroeder St. Mary, Leipsic

12 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

fulfilled

"Upon receiving the Holy Eucharist at the Easter Vigil when my wife and I became Catholic, I experienced an immense feeling of contentment. I was completely fulfilled and nourished by our blessed Lord who gave Himself completely for me despite my many sins. Glory be to Jesus Christ!"

Kevin Jorrey Pastoral Center, Diocese of Toledo

sunny&bright

vivid

Many people cherish their memories of First Holy Communion, from the outfit they wore, to the way they felt receiving Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time. We asked parishioners to share their memories of this extraordinary day. Here’s what they said.

"It was a beautiful, sunny morning ... We had a large class, which included the CCD kids, and everyone looked nice. We had to go back in the afternoon to receive our Blessed Scapulars, and we had the next day off from school.

That day is one of my fondest childhood memories."

Anne Brossia, Epiphany of the Lord, Toledo

We put living into senior living.

Dedicated to our healing ministry, CHI Living Communities offers many safe senior living options, including Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing and Rehab.

And, with our on-site chapels with religious services, robust selection of planned activities, abundant green space, and many other amenities, your choice to move just got easier!

Contact one of our area communities to learn more about all of our services and amenities or visit CHILivingCommunities.org.

The Commons of Providence 5000 Providence Drive Sandusky, Ohio 45870 419.624.1171

Franciscan Care Center 4111 N. Holland Sylvania Rd. Toledo, Ohio 43623 419.882.6582

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St. Clare Commons 12469 Five Point Road Perrysburg, Ohio 43551 419.931.0050

The Gardens of St. Francis 930 South Wynn Road Oregon, Ohio 43616 419.698.4331

GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | SUMMER/FALL 2023 13

BIKING NW OHIO There is nothing quite like the enjoyment of a leisurely bike ride on a breezy 75-degree sunny day. Whether you enjoy cruising along a flat path or zipping down hills, Northwest Ohio has a range of paths that are suitable for anyone from the casual bicyclist to the avid rider. Here are some trails throughout northwest Ohio to consider for a bike ride:

14 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

MANSFIELD TO BUTLER

Richland B&O Trail The northern point of this 18.5 mile paved path goes between Mansfield and Butler. There are many quaint towns that hug the route of this path. For more information: richlandbandotrail.com. What they’ve said: “This is a nice trail, with some beautiful views. Trees and bushes grow alongside most of the trail, which makes it a pleasant ride. Also, the towns are nicely spaced (almost exactly 6 miles between) and accessible.”

OREGON

Maumee Bay State Park This 1,300-plus-acre state park situated on the western shores of Lake Erie in Oregon offers biking enthusiasts a range of trails and paths. Just 5 miles east of Toledo, Maumee Bay State Park features several multi-use trails as well as a 5 mile paved trail. For more information: maumeebaylodge.com.

What they’ve said: “Easy trail[s] for bikers, runners, walkers. Great for dogs, went down to the beach and found beautiful glass and terra-cotta-colored polished stones. Many deer.”

$750

TAX CREDIT The Diocese of Toledo Scholarship Fund is a Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) that collects funds to provide scholarships to students in grades K-12 to attend Catholic schools.

Donors receive a tax credit on your State of Ohio tax liability of up to $750.00 for individuals or up to $1,500.00 for those filing jointly.

WATERVILLE TO GR AND R APIDS

Miami and Erie Canal Towpath Trail This trail follows the path of the former Miami Erie Canal. It starts at Farnsworth Metro Park and winds west to Benview Metro Park, then ends at Providence Metro Park in Grand Rapids. For more information: metroparkstoledo.com/trails/towpath-trail. What they’ve said: “Great ride, beautiful scenery, one of the best places to ride. Crossed the [Maumee] River for coffee in Grand Rapids. Nice town with friendly people.”

TOLEDO TO SYLVANIA

University Parks Trail Maintained by Toledo Metro Parks, this paved path runs between the University of Toledo campus and Sylvania. There are several entrance points at various places on the 7 mile path. For more information: metroparkstoledo.com. What they’ve said: “Nice wide paved tree-lined route. Two road crossings with traffic lights, one crossing without. Parked in Wildwood Park [then] rode west to end on Silica Drive. Fair amount of traffic on path.”

LIMA

Lima Rotary Riverwalk Offering a diversified range of scenery, this path winds itself from one side of Lima to the other. This trail goes from Heritage Park in Lima to Schoonover Park. For more information: traillink.com/trail/limarotary-riverwalk. What they’ve said: “Not bad. I get the complaints about cars, the view of cell towers and a refinery ... There's a nice section along the river and another through Johnny Appleseed park.”

— Graceful Living staff

We ask you to consider: would you like to give to a student to attend a Catholic school or send your money in the form of taxes to the State of Ohio?

• A tax credit is different than a deduction.

• A tax credit is money back in your pocket on taxes you already owe.

• You can also designate which Catholic school you would like to donation to be directed!

It’s easy to donate, go to dotsgo.org and click the “Donate” button.

You can also send a check to Diocese of Toledo Scholarship Fund:

1933 SPIELBUSCH AVE. | TOLEDO, OHIO, 43604 Following your donation being processed, you will receive donation receipt and instructions to file for a tax credit.

BY ANNIE LUST

Spangler Candy Company in Northwest Ohio makes some of America's favorite classic candies.

Just ask the residents of Bryan and they'll tell you this place is the sweetest town in America!

16 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

ANY CANDY COMP ER TESY SPANGL

LAND

PHOTOS COUR

a c ndy

T

here is something sweet about the city of Bryan.

Fr. Andrew Wellmann detected it immediately when he arrived after being named pastor of St. Patrick, the local parish (as well as Sacred Heart in nearby Montpelier). “I noticed a very sweet smell in the air – a very good smell unlike any other I had experienced before,” he recalled. Take a spin around the small town in the northwest corner of the state, and you will notice it, too. Bryan is charming and vibrant, but there’s something more — it's sweet!

That sweetness is due in no small part to Spangler Candy Company.

Even if the name is not familiar, its signature product undoubtedly is.

Maybe your earliest memory of the treat is a bank teller handing you one from across the counter. Perhaps you remember a teacher rewarding you for answering a question correctly. If you are like Bill Martin, President of Spangler Candy Company, your first taste was while sitting in a barber’s chair. Or, like me, maybe the lollipop conjures memories of your

(At left) pictured left to right, Ernest Spangler, Omar Spangler and Arthur Spangler in 1915.

The Spangler Candy Company location in 1908 (below) on South Main Street in Bryan.

Opposite page: A cardboard box of Spangler's signature product, Dum-Dums, in 1953 — the year the company acquired the lollipop.

grandfather, who always kept them in his pockets, eager to pass them to his grandchildren.

It is the iconic Dum-Dum lollipop, of PHOTOS COURTESY SPANGLER CAND Y COMPANY course. Made exclusively in Bryan by Spangler since 1953, they are the number one lollipop in the nation. Dum-Dums are so synonymous with Bryan that the local water tower was recently repainted to showcase them. Eight colorful Dum-Dum lollipops, painted by muralist Eric Henn, literally tower 160 feet over the town.

Despite its most famous product, Spangler started as something

GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | SUMMER/FALL 2023 17

else entirely. Arthur help but smile G. Spangler purchased when reflecting on the Gold Leaf Baking the tenacity of the Powder Company for founders. “There $450 in 1906. It was weren’t delivery located in Defiance, trucks, much less but rather than moving refrigerated delivery himself to the company, trucks. They were he moved the company literally delivering to his hometown. Retheir chocolates christened the Spangler in the back of By the 1960s, Spangler employed many women.

Manufacturing Company, This group is packaging mints. buggies pulled by it took up residence on horses with a block the town square in Bryan. The company initially of ice to keep them from melting. They faced produced baking soda, baking powder, laundry some massive hurdles just to get the product starch and several other items. However, the to market,” he said. Despite the challenges, second Spangler brother, Ernest, had a sweeter Spangler excelled at candy making so much that plan in mind. they dropped the other products and became By 1914, Spangler had several popular candies Spangler Candy Company, as it is known today. on its resume, including Creme Peanut Clusters, With the company’s growth, the third Spangler Cocoanut Balls, Bryan Drops, chocolate bars and brother, Omar, joined the company, bringing more. Bill his mechanical and bookkeeping expertise. It Martin, was a family business in the truest sense. “In the the first stories I’ve been told, the three brothers would nonfamily walk to work together, have lunch together, then member to walk home together in the evening,” Bill Martin be named explained. president The Spangler brothers and their children (the of the second generation) ran the company for decades company, unless duty called them elsewhere. In the 1940s, cannot millions of men, including the Spangler second generation, went overseas to fight in World War II. Women throughout the Spangler country, stepped in to fill employees in 1944 vital manufacturing roles at (above) pause for home. The Spangler second a photo with new candy production generation women were equipment. A no exception, helping keep truckload of Dumthe company strong during Dums (right) leaves wartime. Fortunately, all the factory in route the Spangler men returned to Chicago. from their various WWII COMPANY PHOTOS COURTESY SPANGLER CANDY

18 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

Unforgettable PILGR IM AGES

Maggie McDaniel and Teresa Grodi Members of the Diocese of Toledo

OCTOBER 8-17, 2023

DANUBE RIVER CRUISE WITH MSGR. WILLIAM KUBACKI

Join Msgr.

Kubacki exploring the rich history and Catholic roots in 4 countries along the Danube River, sailing the luxurious and relaxing 5-star hotel, the Amadeus Queen ship. Daily excursions include St. Peter’s Cathedral in Regensburg, St. Stephan’s Cathedral in Vienna, Melk Abbey, Budapest, and many other sites in the varies towns we visit.

Return to the ship each night for dinner and sailing.

NOVEMBER 6 – 17, 2023

ITALY

WITH FR. ERIC MUELLER

Join Father Eric Mueller of Epiphany of the Lord Toledo, Ohio, on a pilgrimage to Italy! Walk in the footsteps of Sts. Francis and Claire in Assisi, St. (Padre) Pio in San Giovanni Rotondo, Sts. Benedict and Scholastica in Norcia and Montecassino, and too many more to list! Stand in awe before the Eucharistic miracle of Lanciano and visit a cave in which St. Michael the Archangel appeared. Visit the major basilicas in Rome and tour some of the most ancient sites in Rome. Fr. Mueller will offer the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass daily at many of these holy sites.

CatholicFaithJourneys.com For information or to register, visit our website or contact Maggie McDaniel at 419.290.8782 or maggie@catholicfaithjourneys.com

E. THOM PHOTO COURTESY DANIEL

AS

posts around the Honey, required a globe. factory expansion.

By then, The honey flavored dozens of taffy with almond candy varieties bits blended in were being began rolling off produced. One the line in 2023. of the newest While it might products was be a cliche to Marshmallow call a business a Circus Peanuts, family, it’s difficult Spangler's version to see Spangler Wellmann and Brian Bishop Daniel E. Thomas, Fr. Andrew of a popular as anything but.

3.

202 in February Doyle were treated to a factory tour “penny candy.”

It’s still owned While many candies have been discontinued and operated by the fourth generation of the in the intervening decades, the Marshmallow Spangler family, but it goes further. Kirk Circus Peanuts have stood the test of time.

Vashaw, the Chairman and CEO and greatIn the 1950s, the second generation of grandson of Omar Spangler, knows the people Spangler family members was running the who work for him, as does President Bill company, and they made two decisions that Martin. They are regulars on the floor, chatting would expand the company significantly. First, with employees such as Rena Buchanan, who Spangler Candy purchased Dum-Dums from works as a Circus Peanut cook and Pacencia Akron Candy. In the first year, they produced Andrews, who works as a candy packer. These 84 million Dum-Dums in seven flavors: lemon, are friends, fellow parishioners. “These are lime, orange, coconut-pineapple, cherry, grape the people I sometimes sit near at Mass,” Bill and butterscotch. Today, Spangler makes 12 Martin explained. “And just a few seats away at million Dum-Dums per day. They are the the same Mass might be former third generation number one lollipop in the United States.

CEOs Dean Spangler and Greg Spangler, as In 1954, Spangler began producing candy well as a few other members of the company’s canes. Today, they are the largest candy cane current Management Team.” When Fr. Andrew manufacturer in the world, producing about Wellmann toured the factory, many of the faces 500 million candy canes each year. In fact, if were familiar to him, as well. “As I was walking you purchased a candy cane last year — from throughout the factory, it was a great joy to see the traditional red and white peppermint to the several parishioners working on various candy multi-colored Starburst flavored — the odds are lines. What a great reminder of the dignity of very high that it was made at Spangler. the worker and of Spangler Candy Company’s By the 1970s, as the third generation commitment to its employees,” Fr Andrew of Spangler family members stepped into Wellmann said. leadership, the company’s manufacturing focus Since its founding, Spangler has been was shifting to hard candy. Greg Spangler, dedicated to being a positive force in its grandson of Ernest Spangler, took over in community, a dedication written into the 1977, and his cousin Dean, grandson of Omar, company’s basic beliefs. “If something is succeeded Greg in 1996. During their tenure, happening in our community, we want to be the company was focused around the flagship a part of it,” Bill Martin said. He mentions brand, the Dum-Dum lollipop. Dean was at the many projects that Spangler has supported in helm in 2006 as Spangler celebrated 100 years recent years, including a new school. Perhaps in business with a huge community-wide party their proudest community accomplishment and parade. is the Spangler Foundation, which provides Spangler’s most recent acquisition, Bit-Oscholarships for local students to attend

20 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

the Spangler Candy Company Fr. Andrew fondly remembers touring from left. The city of Bryan's nd seco is He (above) in middle school. re a variety of the company's water tower (below) is painted to featu signature candy, the Dum-Dum.

college. “Education has always been important to the Spangler family.” Kirk continued, “All our employees are eligible to participate in our Tuition Reimbursement Program. We have lots of people who have used the program to work their way up from an entry level candy packer position to a managerial position.

We even had someone make it all the way to become an Executive VP.” While it’s clear that Spangler loves Bryan, there’s no doubt that the love is mutual. Unlike many small communities whose populations have decreased in recent decades, Bryan has continued to grow. In 2020, 8,729 residents called Bryan home, the city’s largest-ever population. “Spangler Candy Company is truly invested in the city of Bryan. The company employs many people, is very active in local organizations, and generously supports many community projects.” It’s clear that Spangler is beloved in Bryan everywhere you turn. Whether it’s chatting with locals, driving past candy-themed murals, or visiting the website (visitbryanohio.com), they are enjoying the sweet life in Bryan. 

A sweet path Spangler has cornered the market on nostalgic candy. Here is a history of a few of the candies Spangler makes today.

1650 According to legend, a choirmaster in Germany, created and handed out candy canes to young singers to keep them quiet during the living creche ceremony.

1847 Oliver Chase, an English immigrant, invented a machine with which he produced candy wafers. They became known as Necco Wafers in the early 20th century.

1901 Sweethearts were invented by Daniel Chase, Oliver Chase’s brother. He designed a machine that was able to press on the candy similar to a stamp, making the heart-shape possible.

1924 Akron Candy Company creates Dum-Dums in Bellevue, Ohio.

Schutter-Johnson Company invents BitO-Honey in Chicago.

1953 Spangler acquired Dum Dums.

1954 Spangler acquired A-Z Christmas Candy Canes from Detroit.

2018 Spangler acquired three iconic candy brands Necco Wafers, Sweethearts and Canada Mints from the New England Confectionery Company (NECCO) in Revere, Mass. It also acquired the Bit-O-Honey from Pearson Candy in Saint Paul, Minn.

2023 Spangler began making Bit-O-Honey.

Spangler plans to open a new museum and store called Spangler Candy World.

2024 Dum-Dums and Bit-OHoney celebrate their 100th anniversaries.

— Annie Lust, Graceful Living

T R AV E L

C

ARCHBOLD

C

WEEKEND GETAWAY

BY ANNIE LUST

Near the northwest corner of Ohio, the quiet village of Archbold makes the ideal destination for a peaceful getaway. The village itself was founded in 1855 when the railroad expanded to that point. In the 19th century, the area was entirely wooded. Naturally, woodworking became the first industry, and that tradition continues today.

In fact, tradition is a major theme in Archbold. Sauder Village, Ohio’s largest living history destination is located there. Book a visit to Archbold to slow down, unplug and spend quality time with your family.

PHOTOS ABOVE AND BELOW COURTESY SAUDER VILLAGE

EXPLORE Sauder Village is an entertaining stop for guests young and old. Visit the Historic Village, open seasonally from May to October, to enjoy engaging stories, demonstrations and activities while exploring historic homes, barns, gardens and craft shops. Take a walk through time from 1803 through the 1920s while visiting exhibits such as Natives & Newcomers, Pioneer Settlement and the newest addition: 1920s Main Street. Sauder Village is not the only place to appreciate history.

Goll Woods is the most undisturbed woodland known to remain in northwest Ohio. This preserve features some of the oldest and largest trees remaining in the state.

PRAY

Sauder Village Living History Museum & Farm

Start your day with baked goods made from scratch at Doughbox Bakery.

Patrons rave about the cinnamon rolls and doughnuts! You can’t find a better lunch place than Mom’s Diner & Pizzeria. The vintage-style eatery has been in business since 1969. Burgers, pizza, pie and milkshakes are just a few of the mouthwatering goodies on the menu. With checkerboard floors and fluorescent signs as decor, this place transports you back in time. For dinner, try the warm and inviting atmosphere of the Barn Restaurant at Sauder Village.

For more than 45 years, families have gathered to enjoy home-style food and welcoming hospitality under the hand-hewn timbers of a barn built in 1861.

PHOTO B Y JACK THOMAS

EAT & DRINK

The Catholic community in Archbold dates to 1846 when the Catholic pastor from nearby Defiance began celebrating Masses in the town's homes.

Sixty years later, the present brick church was constructed.

St. Peter Catholic Church has stood for more than 100 years.

Visit stpeterarchbold.com for specifics about Mass times and other parish events.

STAY The Heritage Inn at Sauder Village is the ideal place to stay for a relaxing weekend. Throughout the inn, the beautiful fireplace, atriums with live plants, comfortable furniture, natural wood timbers and handforged lamps and railings set a casual, friendly mood. The lodge amenities include an indoor pool with waterfall, hot tub and game room.

GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | SUMMER/FALL 2023 23

PHOTO BY SCOTT W. GRAU/SPECIAL TO THE DIOCESE OF TOLEDO

24 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

servi n g the campus

BY ANNIE LUST

From childhood through college, Fr. Jeremy Miller’s life was all about tennis. He was a state champion in high school and a Division I college athlete. But in the midst of his tennis career, he rediscovered something more important — his faith. While focusing on seminary and his first pastoral assignment, tennis took a backseat. But, in his current assignment serving Catholic students at the University of Toledo, he’s found a reason to pick up his racket again.

I

t’s a good thing Fr. Jeremy Miller considers himself a “night owl.”

His schedule is not what you would see in the average parish.

“Most programs and events are at night” he explained. That might mean a Bible study that ends at 10 p.m. or meetings scheduled until 11 p.m. Fr. Jeremy is available whenever he is needed. With a core demographic of college students, he stays up pretty late.

Fr. Jeremy is the pastor of Corpus Christi University Parish, one of only two university parishes in the Diocese of Toledo. Rather than serving a geographic area, Corpus Christi was founded in 1970 to serve the Catholic community at the University of Toledo. Fr. Jeremy was appointed pastor in 2018.

ON CAMPUS When Fr. Jeremy arrived, he recalled the former pastor’s advice: integrate with

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Getting involved in campus life is an important job for the pastor of Corpus Christi University Parish. Fr. Jeremy with the university's women's tennis team. He offered his help to the team due to his tennis background.

campus. One obvious way for him to get involved was tennis.

Fr. Jeremy began playing tennis at 7 years old. His goal was to become a Division I athlete, so he traveled throughout the country to compete. In high school, Jeremy placed second in the state tournament before winning the following year. He was recruited and offered a full-

GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | SUMMER/FALL 2023 25

PHOTO AT LEFT BY SCOTT W. GRAU/SPECIAL TO THE DIOCESE OF TOLEDO; PHOTO AT RIGHT SUBMITTED

Corpus Christi has a busy calendar with events for students daily. Starbucks Tuesday Coffee in the university library (at left) is a popular event each week for the Catholic students and their friends. Corpus Christi pays for the students’ Starbucks drinks, and they hang out, study and talk, usually with Fr. Jeremy. The Catholic Student Association is well-known on campus. One annual event they take part in is making a homecoming float (at right).

ride scholarship to Xavier University in Cincinnati where he played until college graduation.

During his first assignment in Mansfield, tennis fell by the wayside. That changed soon after he arrived at Corpus Christi. Fr. Jeremy offered to help with the women’s tennis team at the University of Toledo as a way to get involved on campus. It began as simply hitting with some players, then evolved in 2020 when he even traveled with the team. He continues to help when his schedule permits. “It’s been a lot of fun to be involved with the team and to get back to playing in general,” he said.

CATHOLIC STUDENT ASSOCIATION While Fr. Jeremy is at the helm, much of what takes place at Corpus Christi is planned by students through the Catholic Student Association (CSA). The largest co-ed student organization on campus, they are an essential part of life at the University of Toledo: “We participate in all of the main UT events through CSA. For homecoming, we build our own float. For Songfest, we participate in the dance competition.

For football games, we sit in a certain section.

Everyone on campus knows CSA.” THE MINISTRY OF PRESENCE Late night events are not the only unusual element on Fr. Jeremy’s calendar. “It’s important to support the students beyond faith-related activities.” He attends most CSA events, whether that’s a pool party, a debate on the existence of God or serving Toledo’s homeless community. But Fr. Jeremy also supports the students by attending events unrelated to the parish. Most days, he goes

to the university’s Recreation Center to work out alongside students or play basketball. He’s in the stands at football games and in the audience at musical performances. Fr. Jeremy refers to it as “the ministry of presence.”

For students who are already involved, he said, “I think it connects them to the Church in a deeper way.” Interaction with a Catholic priest can also make an impression on students not involved with the parish. “It’s a bridge to faith that not everyone gets to experience,” Fr. Jeremy said.

A SIGNIFICANT TIME “One of the blessings is that I get to walk with students spiritually through a significant time in their life,” Fr. Jeremy said. He knows from experience that the people around you in college can have a life-altering impact. After drifting away from his faith during his first year of college at Xavier, he started dating a girl who took her Catholic faith very seriously. “It made a big impression on me.” While the relationship was short-lived, Fr. Jeremy’s faith continued to grow. Shortly after college, he decided to “try out” seminary. “And I never left,” he said with a laugh.

PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE Fr. Jeremy’s goal for campus ministry is to equip students to practice Catholicism far beyond the four years he interacts with them. “We want to give them the foundation and the resources so that when they leave and go to another town, another parish, their faith will be strong enough, and they’ve seen such a variety of experiences that they can seamlessly integrate and make a difference in any Catholic community,” he explained. Simply

26 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

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SUBMITTED PHOTO

PHOTO BY SCOTT W. GRAU/SPECIAL TO THE DIOCESE OF TOLEDO

The most popular Mass times at Corpus Christi are the evening Masses. The 6 p.m. Mass on Sunday night usually attracts 300 students.

After Mass, they gather for a student dinner. On Tuesday evenings, the parish offers Eucharistic Adoration, confessions and then Mass.

There are typically 70-plus students in attendance.

put, he wants them to thrive in any parish.

Corpus Christi does have a dedicated group of permanent parishioners.

The Catholic Student Association plans four annual retreats. The Fall Retreat to Hocking Fr. Jeremy explained, “We Hills is its most popular event. have a vibrant, permanent Since Fr. Jeremy’s arrival, the rooms at the community, and they support the students in parish have become increasingly more crowded many ways.” But the vast majority are only there with students. The number of students involved as long as they’re in college. “We get these four in parish programs has increased dramatically, years to make it easier for them to integrate their as well. The fall retreat, for example, had 58 faith the rest of their lives.” students in Fr. Jeremy’s first year. “This year, we THE RIGHT PLACE brought 124 students to Hocking Hills for our The church building, located directly across fall retreat. And every [program] has seen that from the university’s south entrance on Dorr type of growth over the past few years.”

Street, has many rooms attached for students to If you have a child or grandchild attending utilize. And they do. “The students love [Corpus college soon, you should consider a visit to the Christi]. They treat it like a home. If you walk University of Toledo and Corpus Christi. It may around, you’ll find students in every corner of the be the right place for the next steps in their faith building studying and hanging out. Every night, journey. And Fr. Jeremy would undoubtedly be there are bible studies and events in every room,” happy to welcome and walk that journey with he said. them.  28 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | SUMMER/FALL 2023 29

LOCATION

Selecting the perfect location in your landscape for a water garden is a big decision. It’s important to select an area that gets full sun, is relatively flat and offers easy access to electricity. It’s best to avoid areas with large trees, low spots, underground cables and pipes.

splash MAKE A

IN YOUR LANDSCAPE

SIZE

It’s important to pay close attention to the size of your pond. The size of your water garden should be determined by the amount of time you can devote to upkeep and maintenance as well as expenses.

Experts say that a pond should contain at least 50 square feet of surface area and the water garden should be at least 2 feet deep. This will aid your water garden in maintaining a healthier existence.

Whether you are a skilled gardener or just looking to add a new feature to your yard, you might want to consider adding a water garden to your landscape. Here are some things to consider when planning an ornamental pond:

PLANTS & FISH:

BUDGET

Determining your budget for the initial installation and the ongoing yearly expenses will help ensure the size is right.

The larger the pond, the greater likelihood for additional maintenance costs.

It is essential to consider the location of your water garden as well as its depth when deciding to add plants or fish. You will also want to consider the types of chemicals and food you will need to purchase to ensure a healthy habitat. If you do decide to add fish, consider making the depth of your pond deeper and potentially adding netting over the top if there is wildlife in the area which might attempt to take the fish.

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS: Should you hire a pro or make it a DIY project? What type of liner will you use?

How much electricity will the garden use and do you need to install additional electrical infrastructure? Are there any local ordinances or building codes that you need to adhere to before starting your project? Will you be draining the pond at the end of the season and how will you be covering it? If the pond contains fish, will you be moving them indoors during the winter? FOR MORE INFORMATION: Check out Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service: https:// aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/earthkind/landscape/water-gardening/design-consideration-water-gardens/ — Graceful Living staff 30 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

Exceptional Educator Nathan Stant, principal of St. John Elementary School in Delphos, is carrying on a long legacy of outstanding Catholic education in the Diocese of Toledo. Stant wrote, “It is a great blessing to work/minister at St. John’s Elementary School every day, as we have the opportunity to partner with parents in the foundation of their children’s Faith, Academic and Social Development. Our Mission is to encourage all to learn and live a Christ-centered life.”

Stant was recently honored as one of 10 recipients of a national award for excellence in Catholic education. The National Catholic

Educational Association’s Lead.

Learn. Proclaim. Awards “recognize outstanding efforts, contributions, and achievements on behalf of Catholic school education.” Matt Daniels, senior director of Catholic education for the Diocese of Toledo said, “Nathan Stant, the principal at our elementary school STANT at St. John the Evangelist Parish School in Delphos, exudes the zeal and excellence that helps make God known, loved and served to our teachers, staff, students and families. We are grateful for his leadership and thrilled that he is recognized in such a way.”

— Graceful Living staff

GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | SUMMER/FALL 2023 31

PHOTOS BY SCOTT W. GRAU/SPECIAL TO THE DIOCESE OF TOLEDO

Holy Family Radio moved to a new facility located in the parish center for St. John the Baptist Parish in Glandorf on August 10, 2022 — the station’s 12th anniversary. Mary Ann Deitering is pictured with Deacon Jeff Compton, the station's managing director, in his new office.

S

ince Pope Pius XI became the first pope to speak over the airwaves in 1931, radio has been a key method for Catholic communication and evangelization. From the pontiff’s first remarks on Vatican Radio to Venerable Fulton Sheen’s preaching on his show The Catholic Hour in the 1940s to Catholic Answers Live today, millions of souls have encountered the Gospel message through Catholic radio stations throughout the world.

Holy Family Radio in Glandorf is one such example. A grassroots effort started

by Mary Ann Deitering and her late husband Tom, the station has grown from a single station broadcasting from the Deiterings’ Leipsic home to now three stations throughout the state with plans to continue expanding.

32 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

a higher frequency Holy Family Radio in Glandorf has grown from a small station operating out of a tiny trailer on Tom and Mary Ann Deitering’s property in Leipsic to now reach nearly 250,000 people throughout Northwest Ohio

BY ELISHA VA L L A DA R E S CORMIER

GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | SUMMER/FALL 2023 33

“We’ve always felt that this was meant to be if it was God’s will, and we’re very thankful for all the support we’ve had.”

MARY ANN DEITERING

PHOTO BY SCOTT W. GRAU/SPECIAL TO THE DIOCESE OF TOLEDO

“We’re so thankful for the impact Holy Family Radio has had,” said Mary Ann, a parishioner of Holy Family Parish in New Cleveland. “I believe that as a result of our station, people have learned so much about our faith and about their own relationship with God.” FAITHFUL BEGINNINGS To say that Mary Ann and Tom were high school sweethearts doesn’t tell the whole story. They met when they were about 10 years old; her best friend was his first cousin. They began dating when they were both 16. After Tom served two years in the army from 1955-57, the couple married in 1959 at the age of 23.

Tom worked at Sylvania Electric before founding Deitering Landscaping in Leipsic. Mary Ann worked for some time at the Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company and the Putnam County Health Department. They raised six children — four sons and two daughters — on

their country property near Leipsic.

A key component of the Deiterings’ marriage and family life was their Catholic faith. They prayed a rosary as a family every night they could, and Mary Ann and Tom served in several parish and liturgical ministries. “God played a big part in our life,” she said.

VOICES FROM THE HEAVENS (& AIRWAVES) Mary Ann recalled that Tom always said he felt very close to God when driving a tractor around the vast and peaceful countryside. Sometime around 2000, as Tom approached retirement, he was tuning between different stations on his radio when he came across programming from EWTN Global Catholic Radio.

“He felt there was a real need for evangelizing and sharing the truths of our Catholic faith,” Mary Ann said. “So he began to research more about starting a Catholic radio station.”

Tom began visiting stations in Cincinnati; Fort Wayne, Ind.; and Ann Arbor, Mich. and peppered station owners with questions on how to operate a station.

The Deiterings attended

34 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

Give the Gift of Love

BY PROVIDING YOUR FAMILY WITH PEACE OF MIND.

SCAN FOR MORE INFO

SUBMITTED PHOTO

A kick-off dinner for Holy Family Radio took place on Aug. 1, 2011. Bishop (now Archbishop of Hartford in Connecticut) Leonard P. Blair introduced local and area listeners to the new station. Archbishop Blair is pictured with founders Tom and Mary Ann Deitering.

EWTN’s annual Catholic Radio Conference in Irondale, Ala., where they learned that the Catholic media powerhouse would provide them with programming if they acquired a station themselves.

The couple hired an engineer to look for available frequencies and formed a corporation in 2005 to help guide their quest. Around this time, the Deiterings began sponsoring weekly Catholic programming — primarily personal faith testimonies — from the Franciscan Hour on a local secular station.

After finally obtaining a frequency — WJTA 88.9 FM in Glandorf and Leipsic — from the Federal Communications Commission in 2009, Tom and Mary Ann began furnishing a small construction trailer and radio tower on their property. With prayers and financial support from Catholics throughwout Putnam County, Holy Family Radio went live on Aug. 10, 2010 — Northwest Ohio’s first full-time Catholic radio station and the first in the Diocese of Toledo.

Then Diocese of Toledo Bishop Leonard Blair came to bless the station, and more than 500 people attended an event celebrating the station’s opening.

“It was a very happy time for us,” Mary Ann recalled.

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Tom died just two years after the station opened, but its mission lives on.

Programming consists primarily of EWTN shows such as daily Mass, “Women of Grace” and “The Doctor is In,” but also content from GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | SUMMER/FALL 2023 35

PHOTO COURTESY BISHOP DANIEL E. THOMAS

LIVING CHRIST AD

Bishop Daniel E. Thomas visited the new studio to bless the facility in September 2022. He said, "May Holy Family Radio's fine new station and location serve to enhance the commitment and communication going forward in announcing the Gospel, sharing information and in witnessing to Christ the Lord! How blessed we are to have Holy Family Radio in our Diocese!"

other networks, such as “The Bishop’s Corner” from Annunciation Radio.

According to Deacon Jeff Compton, the station’s managing director since 2011, Holy Family Radio now reaches about 250,000 listeners. The station, which is entirely funded by its listeners, has expanded to include 88.7 FM in Findlay (2017) and to the Ada and Lima area on 94.9 FM (2020). Additionally, there are plans to continue expanding to Van Wert and Fostoria, which would increase the station’s reach by about 75,000.

“The impact of Catholic radio cannot be overestimated,” Deacon Compton said. “Thousands of people listen each day to be educated, formed and inspired in the Catholic faith. We have hundreds of testimonials and encouraging notes from people.

Many who have returned to the faith after being away for years, others who have learned, evangelized and defended the faith, and some have credited Holy Family Radio for bringing them into the Church.”

On August 10, 2022 — the station’s 12th anniversary — Holy Family Radio moved to a new facility that is located in the parish center for St. John the Baptist Parish in Glandorf. A capital campaign had raised nearly $65,000 to completely renovate an old classroom on the parish’s campus to house the station. The new facility, which Bishop Daniel Thomas blessed last September, gives the station a studio environment that will allow it to produce more original content, such as podcasts and live-stream instudio content on YouTube.

Mary Ann takes pride in the station’s evolution as it has grown from its humble beginnings. She knows Tom would be proud, too.

“It means so much to see all the hard work Tom did take place,” she said. “We’ve always felt that this was meant to be if it was God’s will, and we’re very thankful for all the support we’ve had.” 

36 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

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Northwest Ohio has a rich history of winemaking that continues today.

While some vineyards on the list stretch back more than a century, others have launched in the past decade, proving winemaking is thriving in Ohio.

No matter your wine preferences — from a dry red to a semi-sweet rosé and even some festive sparkling wines — these vineyards have something delicious to offer you. So visit one of these wineries to sit back, sip and enjoy.

CATAWBA ISL AND

COLUMBUS GROVE

GIDEON OWEN WINE COMPANY

SYCAMORE WINERY

Relax around a cozy fire pit listening to live music or order an upscale meal.

This historic winery offers everything from prime rib to pizza with the perfect glass of wine to pair. The current owners focus on reviving the legacy. Don’t miss a tour of the breathtaking 1872 European-inspired wine cellar. Learn more: gideonowenwine.com PU T- I N - BAY

HEINEMAN’S WINERY

Established in 1888, this family-owned and operated winery is now run by the fifth generation of the Heineman family!

Since its early days, it has excelled in producing sweet wines. A unique element of this winery is Crystal Cave.

Workers digging a well for the winery in 1897 discovered the cave holding celestine crystals. Relax in Heineman’s wine garden then take a tour of this marvel. Learn more: heinemanswinery. com WAUSEON

KNOTTY VINES FARM & WINERY

BY ANNIE LUST

If you think you need to book a flight to visit wine country, think again!

What began as a “retirement project” in 2008 soon became a passion for the owners of this winery. In addition to their own grapes, they use other fruit varieties to create their signature fruit wines. Visit their tasting room, and be sure to request the Knotty Blue, one of their most popular. Learn more: knottyvineswinery.com

38 SUMMER/FALL 2023 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE

This winery has only been in business for a decade, but some of Ohio’s tastiest wines come from its vineyards.

Relax in the comfortable tasting room, lounge on the patio or stroll through the vineyard surrounded by a 17-acre lake and covered bridge. Learn more: sycamorelakewineco.com BRYAN

STONEY RIDGE WINERY

Situated on 13 acres of beautiful countryside, this northwest Ohio hidden gem welcomes visitors yearround. This family-run winery focuses on not only offering a great variety of wines but also offering a memorable experience for every guest. Learn more: stoneyridgewinery.com NEVADA

WHITE SHUTTER WINERY

Once a working farm, this winery is a unique experience. Enjoy a glass of your favorite estate grown wine in the tasting room, a converted 1830s brick farmhouse. You can also venture outdoors, where the fire pit offers views of 1500 grapevines. Learn more: whiteshutterwinery.com Interested in even more wineries?

Did you know there are two wine trails in the Diocese of Toledo? The V.I.N.O Wine Trail includes 11 wineries spread across Northwest Ohio. The Lake Erie Shores and Islands Wine Trail includes ten wineries within the Diocese of Toledo (and a few more beyond). Visit ohiowines.org to learn more.

Insist on Us by Name!

Sincera Palliative Care and Hospice of Northwest Ohio When selecting a palliative care or hospice provider, it is important to ask questions to assure you are receiving the best care possible.

How long have you been providing care?

Hospice of Northwest Ohio was the area’s first hospice. Founded in 1981, we are the only local, independent, non-profit agency that dedicates all of its resources exclusively to hospice and palliative care. Sincera palliative care was started in 2008 to meet the pain and symptom management needs of patients with serious illness who are not on a hospice program.

Where do you provide palliative care services?

Sincera’s care can be provided right in your own home, assisted living or nursing facility.

For those who prefer to make an appointment with their Sincera care team in an office, we have Outpatient Consultation Offices inside Hospice of Northwest Ohio’s Toledo Center and The Toledo Clinic Cancer Center in Maumee.

How well do you manage pain and other symptoms?

Our pain and symptom management expertise is unmatched in this region. We strive to manage pain within 48 hours of admission to our program.

Do you have a freestanding inpatient center?

Yes, we have two! Both designed to meet the unique needs of patients and their families at the end of life. Our Perrysburg and Toledo Centers provide beautiful, home-like environments for patients who require close medical monitoring, or whose conditions can no longer be managed at home.

Do you provide bereavement services?

Yes. Hospice of Northwest Ohio provides the area’s most comprehensive range of grief support services. These include counseling, support groups and special workshops, which are free and open to anyone in the community.

What about patients who are unable to pay for services?

Medicare, Medicaid and most commercial insurance plans will cover the cost of Hospice or Sincera. As a not-for-profit agency, we receive substantial support from a variety of community sources. We care for everyone who requests our services, regardless of their ability to pay or complexity of care.

If you have questions, contact us anytime! sinceracare.org 419-931-3440

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hospicenwo.org 419-661-4001

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