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Contents MARCH Vol. 1 No. 1
2014
Features 28 A Family Adventure Kris Pickel, an award-winning journalist on WKYC Channel 3, shares the story of her family’s journey in Northeast Ohio. By Angela Gartner
32 View from the Sidelines Looking to coach your child’s team? Area experts provide tips to help make the transition smooth. By Kristen Gough
50 Five Days of Spring Break
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Families can celebrate spring together with these special home or away activities. By Jennifer Clements and Emma Kanagaki
20 Sweet Summertime Ritual Finding a day or overnight camp becomes easier as parents and children have more options. By Marie Elium
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23 2014 Camp Guide
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Overnight camps like Falcon Camp in Carrollton, Ohio help children develop lifelong friendships.
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Publisher’s Note: Welcome to our first issue. Editor’s Note: Focusing on your family. Family Health: Unplug and get moving. Afterschool: Nurturing love for dance. Education: Ready for kindergarten. Worth Noting: Art museum experience. Community Focus: Historic and fun Hudson. March Calendar: What to do around town. Mom’s Health: Time for Relaxation. Photo Moments: Say goodbye to winter.
On the cover: Kris Pickel and Carl Lemon, sons Clark and Bruce. Cover and Contents (pg. 4) photography by Kim Ponsky Photography. Visit kimponskyphoto.com.
Columns & Departments
March Contents
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COMMUNITY
FOCUS
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Hudson
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Publisher’s Note By Brad Mitchell
Welcome to Northeast Ohio Parent! As parents, you have the most challenging and rewarding job in the world — to nurture and raise the next generation. As parents of three children, my wife and I ride the same currents you do. We paddle through the parenting waters seeking guidance, encouragement, community and a good dose of adventure. That’s why I can’t tell you how excited we are to bring this new magazine to you. We recognize a gap in the market for parents who strive to enrich the lives of their families and enjoy all that this region has to offer. Every month, we will bring you Northeast Ohio Parent with the aim of providing a balance of enrichment, advice and fun. Our purpose is to be the “go-to” resource covering all that contributes to great family life in Northeast Ohio. We’ll provide helpful information and advice for the multitude of decisions parents make every day for their family — everything from the big decisions like schooling and health care, to more immediate needs like where to go this weekend for an awesome family outing. And every day you can count on us to keep you on your toes with a fresh dose of online content filled with information and inspiration at northeastohioparent.com. Northeast Ohio Parent is your guide to the best of family living in the region. We hope to expand your horizons by encouraging families to seek out new experiences. We want to inspire you to explore those great free events in Hudson, the best family eating experience in Westlake or that amazing camp in Geauga County. The staff here at Northeast Ohio Parent is comprised of talented, familycentered media professionals from a variety of backgrounds. Our parent company, Babcox Media, based in Akron, is a third-generation, family-owned business that has built its foundation on print media for nearly 100 years. We’re looking forward to the adventure and we hope you will let us be part of your family’s journey.
Northeast Ohio Parent is a property of Blue Bug Media, a division of Babcox Media, Inc. 3550 Embassy Parkway, Fairlawn, OH 44333 • 330-670-1234 24500 Chagrin Blvd., Suite 300, Cleveland, OH 44122 • 440-842-8600 www.NortheastOhioParent.com Publisher Brad Mitchell brad@northeastohioparent.com Editorial Angela Gartner, Editor angela@northeastohioparent.com Jennifer Clements, Managing Editor jennifer@northeastohioparent.com Emma Kanagaki, Editorial Assistant emma@northeastohioparent.com Parent Contributors Denise Koeth, Marie Elium, Kristen J. Gough, Holly Hammersmith, Jane Pernotto Ehrman, Colleen Brousil Art & Production Tammy House, Art Director | thouse@babcox.com Kelly Gifford, Designer | kgifford@babcox.com eMedia Jeff Philip, eMedia Development Manager jphilip@babcox.com Cecilia Locke, eMedia Developer | clocke@babcox.com Emily Bobb, Digital Ad Specialist | ebobb@babcox.com Advertising Services Cindy Ott, Ad Services Director | cott@babcox.com Advertising Sales Chris Geer, 330-670-1234 ext. 246 chris@northeastohioparent.com Janyse Heidy, 330-670-1234 ext. 250 janyse@northeastohioparent.com Andie Martin, 330-670-1234 ext. 207 andie@northeastohioparent.com Subscription Services Hallie Brown, Subscription and Distribution Coordinator | hallie@northeastohioparent.com
See you around town,
brad@northeastohioparent.com P.S. Please take a moment to share your thoughts with me and our editors on this premiere issue. Also, see below for special information on how to receive this magazine in your mailbox each month at no charge.
Corporate Bill Babcox, President Greg Cira, Vice President/Chief Financial Officer Jeff Stankard, Vice President/Group Publisher Beth Scheetz, Controller
Here’s how to receive Northeast Ohio Parent FREE every month! Northeast Ohio Parent is available at no charge to households as well as to businesses and organizations for redistribution. You may have received this magazine mailed directly to your home. To continue receiving it free, please go to NortheastOhioParent.com/ Subscribe and complete the brief form. If your company or organization is interested in receiving copies for redistribution, contact Hallie Brown at hallie@northeastohioparent.com or 330-670-1234 ext. 240.
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Editor’s Note
Keep in touch with us on social! Be sure to like us on Facebook, and also follow us on Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram for more fun, family-friendly ideas, events and info!
My sons Noel, 7, and Anton, 4, come down the stairs with hair rumpled from their night’s rest. It’s our Saturday morning ritual and soon they will begin to eat their daily helping of cereal. They are happy to receive a break from the hectic week of getting up early to go to school or daycare, and then back home for homework, a quick dinner and bedtime. After cartoons, household chores and shopping, our family sits down for some craft time with crayons and paper. The boys make their usual drawings — hockey rinks and goalies — while my husband and I smile at their creations. These little moments together seem precious with our family going in different directions throughout the week. In this first issue of Northeast Ohio Parent and beyond, we want to give you some time to focus on your family by providing resources that fit today’s parent. For my family, each day brings a new milestone, challenge or a lesson, not just for my sons, but also for us as parents, as we share this journey together. As editor, I hope to bring you a glimpse of others’ parental journeys, such as our feature “Family Adventures with Kris Pickel” on page 28. The award-winning journalist on WKYC Noel, 7, and Channel 3 shares her family’s story and the fun they have living in Northeast Ohio. Anton, 4 Parenting sometimes feels like a rebirth of yourself. You become Mom or Dad — not a new person, but someone you have to learn to be. However, just because you carry this title, it doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. In each issue, we will also consider parents and their own needs — whether it’s spending a night out in the community or finding ways to rejuvenate.
Angela
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Family Health
Families Unplugged Get Moving Together By Holly Hammersmith
In this high-tech world, it can be a challenge to escape the lure of the screen. From cell phones to handheld video games or e-book readers, family members often sit in different corners of the house using their devices. This makes it even more important to schedule quality family time. Making Time to Eat Creating a balance between activities throughout the day isn’t always easy. With each member of the household usually heading in different directions, it’s a good idea to find ways for everyone to come together. Mealtime is one of the simple ways to meet up regularly. “Dinner should be an important time for your family,” according to HealthyChildren.org, a family resource website sponsored by the American Academy of Pediatrics. “As often as possible, all family members should eat together at the dinner table, without the distraction of television. During dinner the family can share the day’s activities and participate in enjoyable conversation.” Children can help cook these family meals too. Then, while the dishes are soaking in the sink, children and teenagers might enjoy a family game night. Many board or card games can be played from ages 3 and older. Crafty Moments Families can find ways to create and get crafty without breaking the bank. The
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Internet has simple searches for “free printables” or “children’s worksheets” that yield easy-todownload activities for younger children. The well-known crayon company, Crayola, offers free coloring pages on its website too. Outside the home, the Northeast Ohio area boasts craft-related activities in family-friendly facilities. At Lakeshore Learning Store, “Free Crafts for Kids” takes place every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for children ages 3 and older. “We run our events kind of like an open house,” says Randy Rzepka, assistant manager of the Beachwood location. “You never have to call with a reservation. The kids just come in to have fun. They make their craft, they take it home with them and they love it.” Simple craft kits are available for purchase on-site and usually range in price from $5 to $15. A current schedule of events is available online at LakeshoreLearning.com. Indoor or Outdoor Play Families can look to activities they can enjoy outdoors, which just requires some bundling up during this time of year. The park systems around the region offer winter activities including crosscountry skiing, ice fishing, sledding, snowshoeing and tobogganing. Easy-touse interactive maps are online to help plan a visit. However, when temperatures are bitter, recreational facilities provide a way to exercise indoors. For example, the Mentor Civic Arena is the only indoor ice skating rink in Lake County and is open year-round. The complex holds two regulation-size
ice rinks, a studio rink, snack bar and locker room. Open skate prices for youth ages 17 and under is only $4.50 each. The rink also offers special skating events. Each county has its own YMCA system, but all have a common denominator — family-friendly fun. The Green Family YMCA, located near Akron, has a unique “Caribbean” theme families will find especially enjoyable. The facility features a zero-depth entry pool within the aquatic center, family and standard locker rooms and more. The Mercy Health & Recreation Center, a Lorain County Metroparks Facility in Amherst, offers a variety of programs for toddlers to teenagers, Ryan Ladd, facility coordinator says. “We do have some family types of programs we like to run weekly or monthly,” he said. The first Sunday of every month is “Sunday-Funday.” For only $3.50 per person, families can enjoy movies, board games, snacks and other activities. The last Friday of every month through the spring is “Teen Night,” where for $5 teenagers can enjoy pizza, beverages, games and swimming. The center also features an indoor water slide and an eight-lane pool. Membership programs are available on a monthly, quarterly or yearly basis, Ladd said. Members enjoy the same special events free or at reduced prices. “On a weekly basis, we have Monday Morning Moms,” he adds. “It’s an opportunity for kids to meet other friends and for parents to sit down and have a cup of coffee and a toddler play date.” Dads are welcome at this event too. The cost is $2 and includes a craft or activity for children.
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After School
Your Child’s Lessons in Motion Taking the first steps to nurturing a love of dance By Denise Koeth While it’s common knowledge that physical activity is crucial for keeping children healthy, narrowing down the options can be easier said than done. Enrolling in dance classes is one way to encourage movement, but it also provides so much more. “Dancing is so important for children — even if they only attend for a year,” said Lisa Heltsley, director at Dance Beatz in Akron, formerly known as Sharon Rae Dance School. “Dancing improves gross motor skills and builds confidence.” “In dance, you’re working the physical aspect of the body; you also learn terminology, work with music and gain an understanding of basic physics,” says Courtney Laves-Mearini, director of Cleveland City Dance, located on Shaker Square. She added there’s also a social aspect, as dance studios provide a place
Dance Beatz
to meet others who have the same passion. Christine Jones-Meneer, director of the Christine Jones-Meneer School of Dance in Munroe Falls, said children who are exposed to dance lessons generally have self-confidence, a stronger body physique and improved thinking skills. Class Considerations “Ballet is the base for all of these, so the dancers who really excel in all of the (dance) industries are those who have strong ballet training,” Laves-Mearini says, adding most dance students start basic ballet training between ages 3 and 5. “The contemporary or lyrical — a fusion of ballet training with modern and jazz set to music with words — is the most popular.”
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And while ballet is still an admired form of dance, there are many others to ponder. Heltsley said Dance Beatz’s most popular classes include Tiny Tots, a combination class with tap, ballet and tumbling for ages 3-4, along with hip hop and ballet for older children. She adds most dancers start between ages 3 and 8. Keeping Confident When children reach a certain age, self-confidence and body image might be causes for concern. This can be amplified with dancers and athletes because of the importance of how their bodies must perform. “It is important to encourage children to take care of their body and exercise regularly,” Jones-Meneer says. “When trained properly, body image should not
Dance nd City la e v le C
be a problem.” Heltsley said Dance Beatz dancers follow a dress code to address this issue. “While there are many body types, the dress code ensures dancers are all outfitted the same. We offer a very positive atmosphere and want all children to feel comfortable.” “The best thing parents can do is not harp on a child’s eating habits; as long as kids are physically active and eating well most of the time, there isn’t a reason to say anything,” Laves-Mearini says. “If they say something negative about their body or about someone else’s body, those are flags that a discussion
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is needed. A child who is having an issue should talk to a professional counselor.” A Graceful Future While it’s well known that areas like New York City attract an array of opportunities, it’s not often talked about how dancers in this region can still have a career at home. “Our program is unique because we allow children to train alongside professional dancers,” Jones-Meneer says. “Our productions are complete with top-notch sets and costumes.” Cleveland City Dance runs a non-profit youth ballet company for which local students can audition. Also, dancers can try out for performances at Playhouse Square, for example, through traveling dance and ballet companies. “Also, there are some organizations that help bring in master class teachers to the area,” Laves-Mearini says. Students can take these classes that would normally be too costly to attend out of town. “Our dancers perform annually at E.J. Thomas Hall and also participate in local parades,” Heltsley said, adding Dance Beatz recently began additional performance opportunities at retirement homes, sports venues and Summit Mall. She said students will even travel to Indianapolis in May to perform at the opening ceremonies of the Indianapolis 500. “As with any activity, it’s important to remember balance,” Jones-Meneer says. “Parents are anxious to start their children in activities as soon as possible, but it is not necessary to flood them with activities. Downtime is just as important and should be scheduled into a child’s routine.”
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Education Corner
Getting Ready for Kindergarten By Angela Gartner Many 5-year-olds are likely preparing for the end of their preschool days. They get to attend what some like to call “the big kid school” this fall. Area school districts are also getting ready for these students as the Ohio Department of Education is launching a new kindergarten readiness assessment. The hope is that teachers and parents can help support children in their first year of school. Measuring Readiness In the past, incoming kindergarten students in public schools took the Kindergarten Readiness Assessment — Literacy (KRA-L). According to the Ohio Department of Education, the KRA-L was the first required standardized literacy screening done for all children entering kindergarten (effective in 2007). Children participated in a variety of activities recognizing capital and lowercase letters, rhyming words, and answering why and when questions. Stephanie Siddens, the director of the Office of Early Learning and School Readiness at the Ohio Department of Education, says the new assessment will be an expansion of the KRA-L. “We have Ohio Early Learning and Developmental Standards, which focus on not just the academic, but also the social, emotion and physical,” she says. “It’s a really good way to (evaluate) individual strengths.” The assessment can be given at the beginning of the
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school year through Nov. 1 for all kindergarteners, which is a longer timeframe than the previous version. “It will have six components: social skills (including social and emotional development, and approaches toward learning), mathematics, science, social studies, language and literacy, and wellbeing and motor development,” according to the Ohio Department of Education. “We are ensuring it’s developmentally appropriate for young children,” Siddens says.
Elementary (grades K-1) in Hudson. Evamere Principal Beth Trivelli says the teachers conducted the emotional and social foundation of the assessment. “(The teachers) felt like they got very good results,” she says. “It was very beneficial, the concern is the amount of time (it’s going to take to complete). We won’t know until we see the whole test.
“I think it’s important to look at the whole child, we know with young kids, the social and emotional piece plays a key role,” Trivelli adds about the assessment. She also advises parents with incoming kindergartners to read to them, work on vocabulary and have kids do more independent activities.
Parents Should Know This is an appraisal of the child’s skills, which means there is no pass or fail. And it does not prohibit any child from entering kindergarten, Siddens says. “There are a variety of areas that we would assess that are similar (to KRAL), we are just expanding the assessment to provide different ways for them to demonstrate their skills,” she says. The student, for example, might be asked to select or sort a shape. The teacher might be observing how they relate socially or emotionally to their peers. She adds the language and literacy portion (to be done by Sept. 30) will meet the third-grade reading guarantee, which is a program that “identifies children that are behind in reading in kindergarten through third grade.” “I think the children will enjoy some of the components of the assessment and will see them as fun activities that are part of the class,” Siddens says. “Parents will get good information in terms of their (child’s) skills to enter kindergarten.” Getting Ready Teachers are getting ready for the new assessment, which will launch this fall. To support the program, the state received a federal Race to the Top — Early Learning Challenge Grant in 2011 to fund the initiative to help close the “kindergarten readiness gap.” Since then, state officials have been developing the program. In fact, some schools in the area piloted the assessment last semester, such as Evamere Family Living At Its Best
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By Marie Elium
The word “camp” might conjure certain images — burnt marshmallows, awkward archery lessons and stinky latrines. However, that’s not the case for today’s children — and their parents — who have increasingly found a modern approach to their camp experience. New-age day to overnight camps offer summertime rituals, which enhance both learning and imagination. Modern camp activities can complement and expand interests in science, animals, art and books while accommodating active students, children with disabilities or families. Campgoers still have the opportunity to appreciate the outdoors while building a strong foundation with friends, counselors and staff.
Shipwreck Camp helps children develop their explorer skills such as exploring “tools of the trade” like this protective exposure suit for rescuers. Photo courtesy of Kathryn Kwiatkowski
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Underwater Exploration Students can get a firsthand account of a lone shipwreck survivor whose Great Lakes freighter went down in 1966. Students at Case Western Reserve University’s Leonard Gelfand STEM Center in Cleveland can participate in Shipwreck Camp. Each year, Dennis Hale provides an account of floating for 40 hours in a life raft with the bodies of three crewmates. The powerful tale is a perennial highlight of the camp.
The two-week day camp also gives students a chance to hone their explorer skills as it’s based on the research and exploration of Dr. Robert Ballard, father of the JASON Project and finder of the Titanic wreckage. Campers will talk to an archaeologist from the Great Lakes Historical Society and learn how scientists find and document shipwrecks from the Cleveland Underwater Explorers group. They build and test a remotecontrolled vehicle that can be used to explore underwater, and learn important lessons in buoyancy by taking a basic Discover SCUBA class. “This is an opportunity for kids to do things they ordinarily wouldn’t do in the classroom,” says Kathryn Kwiatkowski, director of the Leonard Gelfand STEM Center. “They use tools that real scientists use.” Ellen Siebenschuh said Shipwreck Camp was a perfect supplement to her daughter Claire’s interest in science. She notes the 12-year-old was excited about the camp and especially its outdoor field trips. “It was a learning experience, but it didn’t feel like school.” The Summit of Fun While the Shipwreck Camp has a focused approach, Kent State University’s PEAK (Playful Education & Adventures for Kids) day camp introduces a variety of themes throughout its 10-week offerings. The Department of Recreational Services offers the camp. It’s high-energy with daily swimming, outdoor activities, sports and games. Families choose among themed weeks, signing up for one or several. Children through age 15 may enroll in the Leaders in Training Camp, in which they help plan activities and participate in age-appropriate programs, says Abby Millsaps, the camp’s marketing coordinator. For example, during last summer’s Super Heroes Week, the younger children played games, dressed up and made crafts, while the older ones learned about real-life superheroes
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such as firefighters. “I think parents are looking first and foremost for safety and an engaging camp that the kids will come home and have something new to talk about,” Millsaps says. With potential camp themes such as “Express Yourself” — arts, building, acting and painting — or “Magic and Wizard Week,” that shouldn’t be difficult. As in many cases with camps, PEAK makes modifications for children with disabilities and encourages them to do as many of the activities as possible.
he has found campers tend to thrive in a single-gender environment, especially when they are away from home for a lengthy period of time. “It’s a remarkable environment, and it’s very hard to put on paper,” he said. “One thing we hope to accomplish is having a camper tell a parent, ‘I learned to canoe,’ not just ‘I went canoeing.’ (These) are more in-depth activities. We want them to have fun, but we also want them to learn what they are doing.” Chris John of Aurora discovered Fal-
con Camp last year. His family was looking for a creative camp experience for his children, Ricky, 12, and Catherine, 9. An Internet search provided plenty of options, yet his family was drawn to an overnight camp such as Falcon Camp and the wide-range of activities it could provide in a nurturing, exciting and — yes — somewhat primitive environment in the middle of the country. John and his wife met with the camp director, who addressed all of their
Day Camp Adventures Lake Metroparks in Kirtland offers spring break and summer camps. Some take place at the park system’s Lake Farmpark, during which children learn about the variety of farm animals that are housed on the property. Others, such as an adventure camp, allow students to explore waterfalls, to kayak and to rock climb. Children can also go on a beach adventure or attend the Wild Encounters Camp based at the Wildlife Center in Penitentiary Glen in Willoughby. Overnight Camp Adventures While a day camp may be just the right fit for your child, the extra bonding, camaraderie and self-assurance that develop at an overnight camp can be a delightful alternative. Dave Devey has owned Falcon Camp in Carrollton (just 30 miles south of Cleveland) since 1984. Boys and girls ages 6-16 go for two-, four-, six- or eight-week increments, and enjoy what he calls an “old-fashioned, traditional summer camp.” Falcon Camp was established in 1959, which Devey attended as a child. Like other traditional summer camps, Devey sees long-term friendships fostered in a camp environment, among campers as well as the counselors. Tennis, crafts, horseback riding, video and photography, target shooting, swimming and many other activities are part of the fun. Students come from 15 to 18 states and other countries, but most generally are from Cleveland, Columbus and Pittsburgh. Sessions are divided by gender, but some activities are co-ed. Devey said
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questions. That meeting determined that an overnight camp — a first for the John children — would be a comfortable environment. Ricky and Catherine went for two weeks and were ready to go back again immediately, John says. “Camp can be a combination of freedom with discipline,” he explains. “It’s a highly structured environment and every minute is carefully planned and monitored, but everything the kids do is play. They try things they’ve never done before. (My) kids, for example, decided they loved sailing and it gave them confidence.” Falcon Camp counselor Anna Faxon had attended the camp for five years. An Ithaca College student, she will be a returning staff member. “I was never homesick because the camp environment was comfortable for me. The counselors talked to me and helped, and I had a sense of independence that I didn’t have at home.” Choosing a Camp Parents can do several things to make sure their child has a great camp experience. Dennis Elliot of American Camp Association (ACA), Ohio, said parents
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should talk to the person in charge of the camp. Learn how the staff and counselors are chosen and make sure the camp director shares your values. Talk to people whose children attended the camp. Parents can think about questions such as “Does your child get along easily with others?” “Is a day camp better for them than an overnight camp?” “Does your child prefer to play on teams?” “Would he or she be interested in a camp with sports or have an academic focus?” Elliot recommends considering ACA-accredited camps. The association’s program accredits more than 2,400 camps and ensures each one meets up to 300 standards for health, safety and excellence. Since 2002, ACA-accredited day camps have increased 69 percent, residential camps by 21 percent. With all the great camps available, the only person who really knows if a camp is the right place for your child is you, the parent. Do your homework, then let the summer fun begin. Marie Elium is a freelance writer in Garrettsville.
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2014
Summer Camp Guide From standards like archery and horseback riding to science and dance, Northeast Ohio Parent gives you the rundown of Northeast Ohio’s top summer camps!
Achievement Centers for Children’s Camp Cheerful
Offering day, overnight and weekend respite camps for children and adults with and without disabilities, including autism. Campers enjoy activities such as: hiking and nature study; swimming, canoeing, horsemanship activities, fully accessible high ropes activities; arts and crafts; and sports. Campers participate in a variety of recreational activities that encourage confidence and independence, and create opportunities for lifelong friendships while having fun and improving their quality of life. 15000 Cheerful Lane, Strongsville 440-238-6200, achievementcenters.org/campcheerful
Baldwin Wallace University
Grades 4-9: June 14-19, String Camp and Piano Camp A; June 2126, Band Camp, Music Theatre Camp and Piano Camp B. Grades 9-12: May 17-18, International Guitar Festival; July 6-19, Con-
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servatory Summer Intensive; and July 13-19, Music Theatre Overtures. Adults: May 17-18, International Guitar Festival, various dates, Institute for Music Teaching and Learning. Baldwin Wallace University has offered high-quality summer music programs for more than 80 years. 275 Eastland Road, Berea conreach@bw.edu 440-826-2365, bw.edu/summer-music-programs
Beaumont School
Life, Leadership and Service — Beaumont is an all-girls Catholic school that educates women for life, leadership and service. Beaumont offers eight AP courses, 20 honors courses, studio art, academic scholars and pre-engineering programs on a fully networked campus. A 25,000square-foot expansion is currently being built to house eight new science, technology, engineering and mathematics classrooms. 3301 North Park Blvd., Cleveland Heights 216-321-2954, beaumontschool.org
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2014 Summer Camp Guide Discounts available. 800-968-4332, campinvention.org
Westlake, Beachwood, Solon and Brecksville. Camps available in morning, afternoon or full-day sessions. Only 12 kids in each class/camp, so sign-up early at ClassroomAntics.com.
Camp Invention
Led by local educators, the weeklong Camp Invention experience immerses elementary school children in hands-on activities that reinvent summer fun. Children spend their time building original prototypes, creating a personalized motor-powered vehicle and taking apart electronics to construct a pinball machine.
Classroom Antics
Classroom Antics Tech Camps offer summer day camps for ages 7-13 in video game design, LEGO robotics, computer programming and stopmotion animation in Brunswick, Middleburg Heights, Medina, Green (Uniontown), Fairlawn,
Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy Camps
CVCA offers several day camp programs during the summer to help kids learn and enhance their skills. From basketball to hockey to drama, there are several options to challenge your unique student to learn and grow. 4687 Wyoga Lake Road, Cuyahoga Falls 330-929-0575, cvcaroyals.org
Dance Beatz — formerly Sharon Rae Dance School
Summer Dance Adventure Camp — for boys and girls ages 5-11, June 23-26. Children will have a day full of coordination and rhythm activities, music, dancing, tumbling, crafts, outdoor games and so much more. Summer Dance Classes — for boys and girls ages 3-11, July 7-16. Students attend class twice per week and will receive an introduction to many types of dance. Shoes are provided. 727 Canton Road, Akron 330-784-3822, dancebeatzakron.com
Geauga Park District Camps
Geauga Park District announces its second annual week-long outdoor adventure camps for youth entering grades 5-7 during the weeks of June 23, July 7, 14, 28 and August 4. A weeklong adventure experience will also be offered the week of July 21 for teens entering grades 8-10. New this year for the older kids are single-day X Treme Adventures held June 30, July 1, 2 and 3. Details at bit.ly/gpdcamps. 9160 Robinson Road, Chardon 440-286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org
Gelfand STEM Center
Engage your child in authentic STEM learning experiences at CWRU this summer. Ignite your child’s interest in exploration, science and technology while having fun. Take a look at the possibilities this summer for elementary, middle and high school-age students. Develop a website. Learn computer programming. Search for Shipwrecks. Build an ROV. Monitor reptiles and
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amphibians. Guilford House, Suite 412, Case Western Reserve University, 11112 Bellflower Road, Cleveland 216-368-5075, gelfand.case.edu
216-453-4453, greatlakestheater.org
Hathaway Brown School Summer Camps
Great Lakes Theater
Since 2010, Great Lakes Theater (GLT) has partnered with Berea-Midpark High School to offer two weeklong summer camps concentrating on interactive and educational theater-based activities. This summer, GLT is offering expanded half-day and full-day workshops. The program is designed for students of all levels of experience and ability. Classes will be divided by students’ ages. The drama camp features classes in acting, Shakespeare, movement, improvisation, stage combat, mask making and much more. Visit greatlakestheater.org/education for complete information and registration materials. 2067 E. 14th St., Cleveland
Family Living At Its Best
Located in Shaker Heights, Hathaway Brown School provides an inclusive environment that challenges girls in grades K-12 and boys and girls in the Early Childhood Program. Founded in 1876, Hathaway Brown is committed to a fusion of academic and experiential learning. Hathaway Brown offers several unique summer programs including athletic camps, for-credit classes and theatre. See website for a complete listing and information. 19600 North Park Blvd., Shaker Heights 216-932-4214, hb.edu
Hawken School
Whatever your passion — from art, science, sports or cooking to music,
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2014 Summer Camp Guide
photography or math — we’ve developed a program full of exciting adventures. Register early as camps have limited enrollment and are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Camps run varying intervals between June 9 and Aug. 8. Day Camps: sports and enrichment, age 4 to grade 8. Summer Passport: one-week courses in science, the arts, leadership, world languages, cooking, Legos and technology. Athletics Camp: soccer, basketball, running. Summer Studies for grades 6-12 in humanities, math, music, computer science and health. 12465 County Line Road, Gates Mills 440-423-4446, hawken.edu/summer
boys and girls at Hiram House Camp, enriching the lives of children since 1896. Enjoy exciting, handson, outdoor adventures, open new horizons and create great memories that will last a lifetime, all amid 172 wooded acres in Northeast Ohio’s scenic Chagrin Valley. Register Now for 2014 Summer Camps: Day Camp, Junior Day Camp, Overnight Camp, Horseback Riding and Adventure Camp. Contact: Russell R. Grundke, director at info@hiramhousecamp.org 33775 Hiram Trail, Chagrin Falls 216-831-5045, hiramhousecamp.org
John Carroll University Summer Camps
Hiram House Camp
Open New Horizons at Hiram House Summer Camp — “Ohio’s Oldest Camp.” Join the summer fun for
Join us at John Carroll University for summer sports camps! John Carroll University’s Department of Athletics is proud to offer a variety of 2014 summer sports camps and clinics for students of all ages. We provide a safe, fun, learning environment on our beautiful campus in University Heights. Respected head coaches for John Carroll’s varsity and club sports teams lead our summer athletic programs. For details, visit go.jcu.edu/sportscamps. Sign up early. Spaces are limited. 1 John Carroll Blvd., University Heights 216-397-1886, jcu.edu
Lake County YMCA
At the Y, we value the unique personalities and potential of every child and teen. Summer camp creates an environment where kids are encouraged to explore and discover exciting new things, cultivate friendships and make memories that last a lifetime. The Lake County Y Central, East End, West End, Perry Child Care and Outdoor Y offer a variety of summer day camp experiences for
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preschools and children ages 4-14, as well as overnight camp experiences for teens. 440-354-5656, lakecountyymca.org
Road, Chagrin Falls 216-496-1244, fitgirlcamp.com Gilmour Academy
North Coast Education Services
The Academic Fun & Fitness Camp serves the unique needs of children with learning differences. This camp will give your child a new perspective on learning, while developing the self-esteem and social skills needed to be successful. It is held at Lakeland Community College from June 16 through July 25 (half-day or fullday options). 31300 Solon Road, Suite 1, Solon 440-914-0200, www.unschoolcamp.org
Gilmour Academy offers preschool, day, weekly, basketball, hockey and sports camps. Each program is catered to the interests and age group of the students. Programming is available for preschool age through grade 11. Everything from sports to forensic science to digital arts programs are available at Gilmour Academy. 34001 Cedar Road, Gates Mills 440-442-1104, gilmour.org
University School
University School offers Pre-K-12 coed and allboys’ summer day camps, sports camps and academic enrichment classes. Held at the Shaker Heights and Hunting Valley campuses, US camps are led by experienced faculty and coaches. From football to lacrosse and from day camp to theatre camp, there is something for all ages and interests. 216-831-2200, us.edu
For a complete directory of regional camps, visit northeastohioparent.com.
Old Trail School’s Summer Camp — S’camp
Old Trail School’s S’Camp is returning (June 9 through August 8) for another great summer filled with sun, fun, friends and non-stop activities. This popular summer camp has 150-plus options in technology, art, crafts, history, sports and much more for campers ages 3 to 17. Half and full-day camps are offered with extended day options for working parents. Transportation available from Brecksville and Hudson. Early Bird Discount through March 21. oldtrail.org/summercamp scamp@oldtrail.org 2315 Ira Road, Akron 330-666-1118, oldtrail.org
Saint Joseph Academy Summer Camps
Learning is an adventure at Saint Joseph Academy’s Summer Enrichment Camps 2014! The two-week Summer Enrichment camp enhances English, math, science and social studies with hands-on work and field trips. Other camp opportunities include science, rugby, golf, soccer, crew, volleyball, cross country, World Languages, art, music, basketball, dancing, service and leadership camps. Take the first step to summer fun and order a brochure at sja1890.org/summercamps. 3470 Rocky River Drive, Cleveland 216-251-6788, sja1890.org FitGirl Camp
FitGirl is more than just a camp — it’s an experience. We teach a healthy lifestyle. Campers get total body, total mind, fun workouts every day. Fitness is the hook that positively impacts physical health and, ultimately, the self-esteem of girls. Available 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for girls ages 5-12. Chagrin Family Life Center, 16349 Chillicothe
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W Photo by Kim Ponsky Photography
hen Kris Pickel opened the door to her Avon Lake home, you got the feeling you were going to talk with a typical mom who was in the middle of her weekly routine rather than a celebrity. While the award-winning journalist at WKYC Channel 3 shows us her strength as a reporter on television, the mom of two boys also demonstrates the importance of family life. Pickel, born in Sacramento, Calif., came to town two years ago with her family to fill the evening news co-anchor spot. This undertaking wasn’t easy. Leaving Sacramento for Cleveland left close family members behind. However, to Pickel and her husband, Carl Lemon, this was the best move they could have made. Early Beginnings Pickel didn’t set out to be a news anchor. In fact, she says it was never the goal and, at first, she really didn’t know what she wanted to do. “I thought I would go into politics or business or something,” she says. But after interning at a Sacramento news station as an editor for the various newscasts, she was drawn into the reporter’s life. “When I got into the station, I fell in love with the news,” she says. “I was fascinated by the whole thing, plus I was shy. The reporters were very nice and eventually I would help them with things.” She was often asked to go out into the community to help cover stories. “It was amazing to me how people would open up, and you get to share these moments in people’s lives.” She landed her first job as a weekend anchor and producer in Grand Junction, Colo., and then moved on to
Family Adventures
With
By Angela Gartner
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another anchor position in Reno, Nev. Little did she know, that’s where she would meet her future husband. “He is one of the very few people who I liked the moment I met him,” Pickel says. The two, however, didn’t start out as a couple. They began their relationship as friends. Lemon was a videographer at the news station and it wasn’t until after he moved away and they were still in contact, that it dawned on him — they were meant for each other. They were married in 1999 after a three-year engagement. “We definitely see things the same way,” Lemon says. “Our sense of humor is on the same track.” Professionally, he says they both had that same drive to become better at their crafts, and both wanted to tell stories but weren’t as concerned with the perks of being in front of the camera. The Move No matter what career parents are in, it’s not always easy to decide on how to raise a family. In the news
business, it can be especially difficult, but Pickel says she and Lemon worked together. “The first five years were the easiest, when they weren’t in school,” she says of her two sons, Clark, now 11, and Bruce, 8. The family was in Tucson, Ariz., where Pickel was a main television anchor. “I took as much time off as I could,” she says. “It’s always been that we prioritize. I think we had it so much luckier. Carl is just the world’s greatest partner and he takes on so much. Every decision we’ve made since the boys were born is (based on) ‘How does this impact the family?’ There are things we’ve wanted to do, but we don’t.” While in Tucson, Pickel and her family decided to move again, this time they were going back home to Sacramento. Being closer to her parents and relatives was a perk, but after six years as an anchor in the city where she was raised, her family was feeling the effects of her busy schedule. “It was six years of not having any days off together,” she says. “For a
while, when one of us would take a day off, you’d think it was Christmas. The kids would run around the house (yelling) ‘family day, family day!’ It was not the way to be. We were like single parents.” Pickel felt like it was her time to leave the station in Sacramento. “It was for the sake of being together as a family,” she says about her decision to move. “I tried in Sacramento to get shifts that would allow more family time. This was one of those life lessons; (we told the boys) that we have to leave Sacramento because Mom needed to be in control of her own life.” The next stop in the family’s journey was Cleveland. Exploring Northeast Ohio “Living on the West Coast my entire life, I never considered Ohio,” Lemon says. “Immediately after moving here, the perks started flowing — excellent part of the country, cost of living is great, tons of things to do.” “If we were going to move to an-
KRIS PICKEL OF WKYC CHANNEL 3
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Dressed up for the short film "Zombie Lemonade" this past October.
other place, I wanted (the boys) to embrace it or enjoy it,” Pickel says. “We do an adventure every weekend or try to. Go someplace or do something that we never had experienced before. We never run out of things to do.” The family explores the region, especially enjoying the nature amenities the area has to offer, such as going to the local park systems and spending time at Lake Erie. “(The boys) like looking for fossils,” Pickel says. “They also do volunteer work with me, like the food bank or picking up garbage at the Metroparks.” The family also likes to take visiting relatives on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, and the boys are members of the Cleveland Natural History Museum. “We enjoy the family outings,” Pickel says. “I think they appreciate it more since I am gone five nights a week. It’s those two days — this is family time, let’s make the most of it. We are very lucky that we raised little people who we like to be around.” As Northeast Ohioans, many of us don’t really appreciate the weather, especially the snow. For the Pickel and Lemon family, the changing seasons are something of a wonder. “We love the fact that we can open the back door and build a snowman or have a snowball fight,” Pickel says. Pickel also notes her boys can have a sense of independence here in Ohio compared to California. The Boys “I am Batman,” says Bruce in a deep voice. He, incidentally, was named after the comic book superhero. His brother Clark, well, you can likely guess who he was named after. In fact, when Pickel was asked if
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the boys display any of their namesake’s attributes she said their names are very appropriate. “Clark is the ultimate Boy Scout when it comes to his personality, always wanting to help people. You will not find someone sweeter or nicer than Clark,” she says. “Bruce has this great sense of humor and he is more apt to bend the rules, but to make you laugh more than anything.” Lemon, who is a comic book collector and fanatic (his office’s décor was very telling of his passion for all things superheroes), along with Pickel, brings creativity and fun, which seems to influence the boys in great ways. In fact, the family has had an ongoing video project since the boys were young. Lemon wanted to learn a new program, at the time, called Adobe After Effects, and decided to involve the family in a short film production. “The only way to really learn it is to have a project,” he says. The first movie trailer was called “Sour Wars,” somewhat of a spoof of the 1977 blockbuster film “Star Wars,” with each family member having his or her role. Lemon creates the scripts for their movies using moments from their day-to-day lives. The films, which are just for the family, are really like memories they shared together, and while they have a good time, there’s also a lesson in making these films. “It teaches the boys a work ethic,” Lemon says. “Making these movies takes work.” It also takes time, which both sons and Dad seem to really enjoy. “The three of them are always together,” Pickel says. “I try to convince the boys to have play dates, but they want to be with Dad, because he is the most fun person in the world.”
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View from the Sidelines:
How to be a Whether it’s your first time coaching or your fifth, if you are signing up to coach your child’s team for the upcoming sports season, keep these tips in mind.
Coach Alan Mowrey and the Hudson United U10 Girls team.
By Kristen Gough
Going through a box of old pictures, Bill Mayville couldn’t help but smile at the memories of playing baseball with his dad. “He was my coach starting when I was 5 or 6 all the way up until I turned 18,” says the Parma father. Today, Mayville takes every chance he can to help or coach his son Hunter’s various sports teams. “Being a coach gives me a chance to share a game I love with my son and hopefully he’ll have the same kind of good memories about our time together when he gets older,” he says. Mayville admits, however, being coach and parent at the same time can be a tough balancing act. Learning How To Coach Kids You don’t need to be a former college basketball star or have a degree in sports psychology to coach your child’s team, said Matthew Darby, the director of Competitive Sports at the Ridgewood Family YMCA in Parma. At the YMCA, and other recreation programs like it, directors often hold informational meetings for volun-
Canton Charge basketball clinic at Memorial Civic Center. | Photos by Beth Mowrey.
teer coaches. During these meetings, they learn specific information, including how to run practices. Also, everyone doesn’t have to be a head coach to start out. Instead, consider signing up as an assistant. You can learn the ropes of coaching so that you’ll feel more confident once it’s your turn to head up the team.
ic. at clin nsen e J x ch Ale d Coa e Hea g r a h nC Canto
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Keeping the Game Fun Children’s sports teams are meant to help them learn the game. That’s one reason Bob Bigelow, a former NBA player and author of Just Let the Kids Play: How to Stop Other Adults from Ruining Your Child’s Fun and Success in Youth Sports, cautions parents not to expect what
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Not the coach? You can still help your child’s team. Here’s how:
Be on time to practices and games. “We only have a limited time to practice so it’s vital that [players] are there on time and prepared to play,” says Alan Mowrey, coach and father of four. Volunteer. If you don’t feel comfortable being a head coach, you can still make practices go more smoothly by lending a hand. Offer to manage snacks and schedules. Sending out revised practice or game schedules to parents and organizing parents to bring snacks can be a huge help to coaches. Get some perspective. Bill Mayville, who coaches his son’s baseball team, says “It’s really tough for an 8- or 9year-old to have a mom or dad screaming at them from the stands.” By offering your child — and other players — encouraging comments, it can ease a kid into feeling more confident on the field. Respect the coaches. “Remember, coaches are volunteers or receive very little compensation,” says Len Howser, father of three and volunteer coach. “Treat them with respect and appreciation, even if you disagree. Say thanks.” they see on the field to look anything like games they watch on TV — the same goes for coaching. Mayville believes it’s important, especially at younger ages, for kids to concentrate on learning more about the sport versus concentrating on points. “A lot of times we’ll stop the game to explain different (aspects) about rules or safety,” he says. “More instructional leagues for very young athletes (ages 5-9) place
Family Living At Its Best
less emphasis on the score and more on helping kids just learn and have fun,” says Len Howser, a father of three daughters and a volunteer coach for more than 15 years who led softball teams to the Little League World Series. “As kids get a little older, the competitive side of sports should be more emphasized. I tell young athletes who I coach that life will be filled with competition — job interviews, scholarships, sales, contract awards. Ulti-
mately, win or lose, sports should be fun. The joy is in the process — laughter, cheering, clapping, high fives and making friends with teammates. Coaches and families are the fuel that keeps you playing.” Organizing Practices Learning the basics of a sport is important for kids to play well. If you’re not sure what the fundamental skills are for the sport that you’re coaching, or even if you’re looking for new
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Ask The Expert: Sports Injury As the spring sports season gets underway, youth athletes and their parents might worry about incurring injuries, particularly concussions. In fact, this most common type of brain injury, which is caused by a sudden blow to the head or body, has received both national and statewide attention as new regulations and laws about concussions have been adopted. As a result, parents want to know how to recognize the signs of concussion and how to protect their son or daughter from sustaining this type of injury. Dr. Robert Coale, an orthopedic surgeon on the Medical Staff at Southwest General and medical director of Southwest General’s Sports Medicine Program, treats approximately 100 concussion cases a year. “Every athlete is at risk, no matter what sport played,” he says. “There is currently no equipment proven to prevent concussions.” Sports such as football, soccer and hockey, which demand greater physical activity, also carry greater risk for injury. “Football is the highest risk for boys and soccer is the highest risk for girls,” Dr. Coale says. While children play, parents and coaches can assess if there are signs of concussion, especially after a hard hit to the body or head. “Sometimes, it’s not a single hit, it may be a culmination of multiple hits during a game,” Dr. Coale says. “Have a greater awareness of the child (after the hit). Someone should assess him or her and see how they are feeling.” Signs and symptoms to watch out for are headaches, dizziness, problems with bright lights and loud noises, difficulty concentrating, disorientation and nausea/vomiting. “Everyone worries about loss of consciousness, but that only happens in approximately 10 percent of concussions,” Dr. Coale says. “Someone needs to monitor the child over the course of the day, from the first minutes to hours later.” Southwest General has a staff of athletic trainers who are readily available to
help assess players at the middle and high school levels in the cities of Brook Park, Strongsville, Berea, Middleburg Heights, Columbia Township and Olmsted Falls. “According to new state regulations, if parents or coaches suspect a player has a concussion, the child should be pulled from the game or practice immediately, and should not return until his or her condition is assessed by a physician or licensed professional,” Dr. Coale explains. While it’s recommended that the child sees a doctor if a concussion is assumed, the player doesn’t have to seek immediate medical attention. “Any escalating signs or worsening of symptoms at any time after the injury (such as severe headache, continued vomiting, slurred speech or loss of consciousness), those children need to go to the Emergency Room (ER),” Dr. Coale says. “If their symptoms seem controllable, observation by an adult would be a reasonable initial treatment plan. If they seem otherwise, it is recommended that they go see a physician within the first few days to week, but it’s not necessarily an emergency.” Treatment for concussions generally consists of rest. “The biggest thing in the initial phase is rest, both cognitive and physical — your brain and your body,” Dr. Coale says. “No activities that will raise the heart rate. Sleep is important in the recovery process.” Vigorous activities, school studies, video games, loud noises and bright lights also can have an adverse effect on recovery from a concussion. Your son or daughter should expect to stay out of the game when healing from a concussion, which takes a longer period of time in youth athletes than in their adult counterparts. “It could take anywhere between 10 and 21 days for an average concussion,” he says. “Everyone responds differently. We are trying to prevent a second concussion (called second-impact syndrome) while treating the first. The more concussions you have, the higher risk for short- or long-term problems with memory, cognitive and learning disabilities, anxiety and depression.”
Dr. Robert Coale
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Concussions On April 26, 2013, the state put in place Ohio’s Concussion Law, which requires all those involved with youth athletics to receive education on the signs and symptoms of concussions. According to the Ohio Department of Health, concussions are “an injury to the brain that may be caused by a blow, bump or jolt to the head. Concussions can range from mild to severe, and athletes can get a concussion even if they are wearing a helmet.” Find out more at healthyohioprogram.org/concussion.
ideas, there are several resources available. “Practices should have a good mix of instruction, repetition of learned skills, introduction of new, more advanced skills and some fun time, like mini challenges or races or team-building activities.” Howser says. “Kids will lose focus if you stay with one thing for too long.” “You can look up drills and games for different age groups on YouTube or find books about it at the library,” says Alan Mowrey of Hudson, father of four, and the senior vice president and CEO of the Canton Charge, the development team for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Coaching Your Own Kids As a parent, you get excited about your own child’s accomplishments. You also want to help them learn to do better in that particular sport. However, as a coach, if your child ends up on your team, you have to learn to coach other people’s children, as well as not play favorites with your own. It might be helpful to talk to your child about your responsibilities, as it can be difficult for a child to see Mom or Dad spending time with other players. “Sometimes it’s hard for him to understand why Daddy isn’t playing with him one on one,” Mayville said. “As (my son) Hunter has (grown) older, I’ve had conversations with him where I explain that I’m not just his coach but there’s 10 or 12 other kids on the team, and I need to help them, too.” You also want to remember why you decided to take the coaching job. Volunteer coaches aren’t paid for their efforts — it’s a labor of love. “For me, one of the reasons I coach is because I want to spend more time with my kids,” Mowrey says. “You get a littler closer to them when you’re coaching them through the ups and downs of playing sports. It’s just a great way to connect with your kids.” Family Living At Its Best
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Worth Noting
Family Visits to Art Museums By Emma Kanagaki rade A ch ildren’s pa d Museum at the Clevelan of Art
An art museum may seem like a daunting place to take kids or young children, but in reality, these art spaces are much more family friendly than you might think. Our region boasts two incredible places to observe and interact with art — the Cleveland Museum of Art and Akron Art Museum. The Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA) is home to galleries and changing exhibitions and offers free admission. The museum’s new Gallery One is a haven for parents and children to innovate, learn and experience art hands-on. “We’ve done a lot of focus groups here and we’ve found that moms will say they’re really worried kids will knock something over,” said Caroline Goeser, director of Education and Interpretation at the Cleveland Museum of Art. “We’ve tried in the last 18 months to re-conceptualize our relationship with families, and one of the things we’ve created is Gallery One, which uses technology and hands-on activity to introduce new visitors to art.”
For example, the museum’s Studio Play features technology-based activities for kids to experience and learn about art. The space has a large multi-touch screen that displays images of 3,500 pieces from the museum’s collection of art and objects. “Studio Play is designed specifically for families with children ages 10 and under, and this space is a welcoming space right at the beginning of Gallery One, off the main lobby,” Goeser said.“We want visitors to know by the placement of that, families are welcome and it’s a drop-in space where you can come and stay. It uses technology and games to show they are already connected to art. A lot of people think they need an art history lesson before they come to the museum, but any human being can respond to art in a really visceral way. It makes sense for kids to explore early on and with their families.”
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Museu m & HouInfo rs
The museum has a parking garage and allows strollers in all areas. The Provenance Café has kid-friendly snacks and food items. Restrooms featuring changing tables are easily found throughout the museum. CMA offers a free family day called Second Sundays on the second Sunday of each month from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The ArtStories program is also offered at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. during Second Sundays for children ages 3-5. The Family Day on March 9 will celebrate the works of Vincent Van Gogh, and will feature a scavenger hunt and other activities. The Akron Art Museum maintains one of the best collections of contemporary art in the U.S. and has 65,000 visitors annually. The museum offers many family-friendly events including storytime in the galleries. Bridgette Beard Klein, communications manager at Akron Art Museum, explained the importance of family visits, “Exposure to the visual arts expands a child’s awareness of the world, promotes visual literacy and creative thinking skills. The Akron Art Museum is also a great place to unplug and reconnect as a family.” Parking is available across from the en-
trance on High Street. Strollers are welcome in most areas. Admission is free for kids under 17 and adult tickets cost $7. The gallery offers free admission every Thursday. For those worried about bringing young ones, Klein offers the following advice. “Parents often avoid the museum in fear that their children will touch something or assuming that the galleries are supposed to be a quiet place,” she said.“The Akron Art Museum offers parents and caregivers tools like gallery activity cards and family backpacks that will engage children and parents with discussion prompts and hands-on activities. You don’t have to know anything about art to engage your children in a fun discussion about artworks in the museum. Ask your child to create a story about the work or explore art elements like the colors, shapes and lines. The museum offers fun activities like Creative Playdates and Family Drop-Ins that involve hands-on art exploration in the museum’s lobby and classroom.” The best part about these museums is their schedules. With events and exhibits happening year-round, there is always something to do or see whether it’s snowy or sunny.
Akron Art Museum 1 South High St. 330-376-9185 akronartmuseum.org Gallery Hours: Wednesdays-Sundays 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursdays 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays and major holidays
Cleveland Art Museum 11150 East Blvd. 216-421-7350 clevelandart.org Gallery Hours: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays, Fridays 10 a.m. -9 p.m. Closed Mondays and major holidays
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Hudson
COMMUNITY Hudson
FOCUS
The Northeast Ohio metropolitan area is the 15th largest region nationally with more than 4 million people. The city of Hudson has a population of approximately 24,000. (Hudson Chamber of Commerce) Neighboring Cities: Streetsboro, Stow, Twinsburg, Kent, Cuyahoga Falls, Aurora, Macedonia, Richfield, Ravenna Distance From:
Akron - 15 miles, about 20 minutes on Route 8 Cleveland - 30 miles, about 36 minutes on I-480 Beachwood - 19 miles, about 23 minutes on I-271 and I-480 Medina - 26 miles, about 35 minutes on I-271 Westlake - 38 miles, about 47 minutes on I-480 Distance to Major Airports:
Cleveland Hopkins: 29 miles, about 35 minutes on I-80 Akron-Canton: 27 miles, about 30 minutes on I-77 and Route 8
Towns throughout Northeast Ohio carry a certain historic beauty. Whether it’s the people in the community, famous landmarks or area attractions, cities like Hudson allow families to experience history while enjoying a modern, thriving community.
Hedge Maze in Hudson Springs Park
Hudson, Ohio Demographics
While some might be aware of Hudson’s local lore, others might not realize how much there is to see and do in this Summit County city. Here’s a look around town for families who may visit for a weekend adventure or even consider relocation.
Parks & Outdoors
The city boasts more than 20 parks, which include everything from ball fields, boating, golfing, hiking trails, pavilions and sand volleyball. Hudson Springs Park (7095 Stow Road) is the largest park with more than 260 acres of lake, meadow and woods. It also has a whimsical children’s area, which features a hedge maze. The park’s 1.6-mile trail is along the perimeter of the lake, which has a dog run and plenty of places to sit and enjoy the beauty. Hudson offers one of the few area skateboard parks. Located just south of the bustling Route 303 and 91 intersection, Veteran’s Way Park has basketball courts, an outdoor amphitheater space, walking trail and a children’s playground.
Happenings to Remember
Signature Events: 2014 dates are subject to change.
Merchants of Hudson International Festival (April 5-12) Hail to the Chefs (May) Memorial Day Parade (parade starts at 11 a.m. on May 26) Concerts on the Green (Sundays, Memorial Day through Labor Day) Hudson Festival Days, including Clothesline Art Show, House and Hudson Farmer’s Market (9 a.m.12:30 p.m. Saturdays, June 7-Sept.) Garden Tour, Ice Cream Social (June 12-13) 4th of July Fireworks (July 5) Summer Sidewalk Sale (July 17-20) Hudson Wine Festival (July 18-19) Music Nights @ First and Main (Every Friday and Saturday in July & Aug.) Art on the Green (Aug. 23-24) Taste of Hudson (Aug.30-Sept. 1) Hudson Haunted House (Oct.) Merchants Trick or Treat (Oct. 23) Come to Hudson for the Holiday (Nov. 28) Santa on the Green (Dec. 6) Hudson Holiday Walk (Dec. 7)
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Main Street
Shopping Main Street (Route 91) in Hudson has been a hub of local commerce for more than 100 years and continues to be a destination for shoppers. The quaint old buildings now house such unique treasures as The Learned Owl Book Shop. Located at 204 N. Main St., this local gem has been a Hudson establishment since 1968. My Little Red Wagon at 220 N. Main St. features oldfashioned toys and games for everyone in the family. Country Blues, Riley’s Clothiers and Grey Colt have dressed several generations.
March 2014
The newer First & Main development, directly behind Hudson’s Historical Main Street, features even more options. There are plenty of shops that merit a girls’ day out, including Nicky Nicole’s, In-Style Accessories and Solaire Salon and Spa.
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Historical To really get to know a town, first you have to explore its past — and history buffs will find Hudson’s story quite interesting. Known originally as the Connecticut Western Reserve, Hudson was founded in 1799 by David Hudson. The town was also home to Owen Brown, whose son, John, was a prominent abolitionist. A historical marker on the city’s central green commemorates the role the city played in the anti-slavery movement. The Hudson Library and Historical Society and Destination Hudson have extensive resources for residents and visitors, including a walking tour of Underground Railroad sites. Two of the highlights of the tours include the Dave Hudson House at 318 N. Main St. and Thirty Acres, at South Main Street, where traces of an escape tunnel remain.
A Place to Live While Hudson is known for history and for happenings, it also has great community features that may not be well known to visitors of the city. If you’re looking to move to Northern Summit County, Hudson might be worth a look. The city has everything a family needs, such as a state-of-the-art library, along with an active historical society. If healthcare is needed, The Summa Health Center at Western Reserve (5655 Hudson Dr., Suite 200), along with two centers in the neighboring city of Twinsburg (Cleveland Clinic Twinsburg Family Health & Surgery Center and University Hospitals Twinsburg Health Center) provide nearby options. Report cards aren’t only for the kids as Hudson School District recently received a grade of “Excellent with Distinction” in 2013 from the Ohio Department of Education. If you’re looking for private school education, Hudson is not short of supply as parents can look to Western Reserve Academy, Hudson Montessori School and Seton Catholic School.
Family Living At Its Best
Hudson's working clocktower on Main St. is a historical landmark that was built in 1907.
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Parents Night Out
Hudson Uninterrupted
Finding Time Together
By Laura Roecker
Other favorites to try:
Couple slips away to re-explore their hometown.
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Otani Restaurant and Pub at 180 W. Streetsboro St. and Marcelita’s at 7774 Darrow Road, which also bring in live music. Downtown 140 at 140 N. Main St. is a decadent alternative, as well as 3 Palms Pizzeria at 60 Village Way, which has homemade gelato and other Italian specialties. North End Wine Bar/ Restaurant at 7542 Darrow Road is another fan favorite. Tuesday Burgers and Beers, Wino Wednesday, Friday happy hours and frequent special events make this restaurant a Hudson staple. Northeast Ohio Parent
A pile of clean laundry occupying half the couch in our family room was waiting to be folded. Our 2-year-old had learned to climb the drawer pulls on our cabinets. We have a 5-year-old who listens to the “Frozen” soundtrack on repeat. I believe a date night was in order. Stat. When I booked the babysitter for that Saturday night, I felt a million pounds lighter, more patient, happier. My husband and I could slip away for four hours of uninterrupted date-night bliss as someone else plays parent. I hoped by the time it was over, one of us would be ready to fold that pile of laundry. Or, at least, shove it back in the dryer for another cycle. To find some new places to go for our big night out, I visited Hudson’s Welcome Center at 89 First St. (Suite 205) My 2-year-old, who came with me, eyed the fire extinguisher; I’m on the clock. Luckily, there were tons of pamphlets for inspiration. I stared longingly at the walking tour guides, Farmer’s Market brochure and summer schedules. In the warmer months, Hudson is alive with festivals, social happenings, shopping and live music. However, as I write this, we’re in the midst of Polar Vortex season, so it was safer sticking with dinner and drinks. And, perhaps ice skating at the free rink at the center of First and Main if we’re feeling particularly adventurous. When date night arrives, we bid farewell to the children, wished our babysitter good luck and smiled foolishly on the drive to The Blue Rock Café at 5827 Darrow Road. The bar/restaurant is a newer addition to Hudson and brings in a wide variety of local musicians. Tequila Mockingbird was playing and we enjoyed a cold beer and eclectic music. My Corona and a Jimmy Buffet cover song was the perfect combination, and I could almost pretend it wasn’t snowing. The Blue Rock Café is inviting for all. The music
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isn’t too loud, there’s a family with kids in the back, many couples and a large group of friends up front. While we’re happy to be kid-less, we know ours would enjoy the music and food, and we promise to bring them back. However, the band’s musical instruments might be a little too tempting for our littlest monkey. The Rosewood Grill at 36 E. Streetsboro St. in the Turner’s Mill building is the next stop on our Hudson adventure. Rosewood is a Hudson favorite. There’s a large fire pit outside with surrounding tables and couches, rustic décor and delicious food and drinks. The menu varies in price for the budget-conscious and many plates are large enough to share. As the snow blows outside, Rosewood offered a perfect backdrop with its lodge-like feel. By the time our food arrived, every diaper-change, tantrum and middle-of-the-night-waking from the past week has evaporated. Even that pile of laundry is worlds away. We toast to date night and Hudson and our kids, who we remember as more amazing with every bite. That night, especially, we needed a little taste of the south, so we visited a new restaurant we’ve wanted to try called Peachtree Southern Kitchen and Cocktails at 200 N. Main St. We decided quickly on the beignets, a deep-fried, homemade dough with powdered sugar on top. The New Orleans classic melted in our mouths and the coffee warmed us all the way through. And, what do you know? By the time the bill landed at our table, we’re ready to return to our regular lives. Being a tourist is fun, but we had sleeping babies to check on back home. And everyone knows kids are cutest when they’re dreaming.
Laura Roecker is the co-author of “The Liar Society” series and “This Is W.A.R.” for young adults, which she writes with her sister, Lisa. She lives in Hudson with her two children and husband. Family Living At Its Best
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COMMUNITY
Culture, Music, Theater
FOCUS
Where to Dine Hudson’s culinary scene continues to blossom. Chef Sean Monday’s trio of delicious dining options literally corners the northern quadrant of First & Main. One Red Door is a tavern-inspired dining experience with a large selection of wines and a craft cocktail menu, as well as lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. His casual eatery Flip Side offers a creative burger menu with milkshakes, mac and cheese, salads and plenty of beer on tap. His latest concept, 3 Palms, has an authentic Mediterranean feel that is centered around an Italian-built wood-fired oven. Recently, Cleveland restaurateurs Matthew Mathlage and Eric Dietrich opened Peachtree Southern Kitchen in a historic space on Main Street. North End, located near the Twinsburg border, has an extensive wine selection and innovative cuisine in an intimate, sophisticated space. Globally-inspired meals can be found at Otani (sushi, mixed Asian), Jaipur Junction (Indian), Marcelita’s (Mexican) and Pad Thai.
Family Living At Its Best
Young Actors Studio
Music and theatre are cornerstones of Hudson’s quality of life as well. The Hudson Players (41 S. Oviatt St.) perform several shows annually with ensemble casts of community performers. Young Actors Studio (86 Owen Brown St.) offers tuition-based classes in performance and off-stage production and six shows open to the public. Memorial Day through Labor Day, the Hudson Bandstand Committee hosts free Sunday concerts on the Green in front of the gazebo at 7 p.m. that feature all genres and types of performers. Families can gather for more free concerts Fridays and Saturdays in July and August at the First & Main Green, 7-9 p.m.
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Hudson
COMMUNITY
FOCUS
The Forrer Family Strikes A
Sweet Balance By Angela Gartner and Colleen Brousil Photos by Emily Piraino Photography
Business-Minded The cupcake shop began with an idea from Kimberly Martin of Hudson. She and her husband Sean Nock created the business in 2007 and brought on Forrer, her sister, full-time the next year. Forrer, who worked in event planning and marketing for a non-profit
“Hudson welcomed us with open arms.” — Sarah Forrer organization around town, seemed like a perfect fit to do the shop’s public relations and marketing full-time. “Hudson welcomed us with open arms,” Forrer says. “Our brand worked with (the town) and has a matching charm. We get to know every customer that comes in. We could not have dreamed up a first location that has this combination of a great destination and a perfect historic downtown feel we love. Hudson
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Main Street Cupcakes is our flagship and we want to embody that with every city we (open a location).” In fact, it wasn’t that much longer after the opening of Main Street Cupcakes that Forrer became a full business partner. Many relatives might not work well together in a business setting, but that’s not the case for these sisters. Forrer feels they make a good pairing. “Our relationship thrives,” she says. “We both have the same competitive outlook on things and we arrive at the same destination. It’s so great, as our company doesn’t miss a beat because of that.” The sisters work together on creating the 300 cupcake flavors the shop produces. There is plenty that goes into the main goal of delivering sweet treats as they now shuffle between stores in Rocky River, Hudson and the new location in Chagrin Falls.
“I don’t get myself involved in something that I think isn’t going to work for us.” It’s important to Forrer to keep the family together, but also not let family obligations deter her from her passions in her profession. “My approach to work has become much more serious,” she says. “There is more on the line now. I want Hadley to
grow up at the store. I want to prove that having a child doesn’t take away from my professional life.” When asked about her passion for the baking industry, Forrer says, “What’s there not to love about it? Endless creativity, I adore the customers and it works well for us.” Sounds like the ingredients for success.
Little Work Companion Having children and a job is a constant juggling act for most parents. She and her husband Brent, a manager at Spin Bike Shop in Lakewood, divide their time between work and taking care of their son, Tommy, 7, and their daughter Hadley. It’s about making choices, and Forrer has the ability, as a business owner, to create an environment that works both for her family and the shop. “And I’ll be the first to say when it works and when it doesn’t,” Forrer says about managing their busy family routine. “We’re just on the go.” On any given day, Forrer is between Main Street Cupcakes locations, whether it’s doing paperwork or making deliveries. And, most times, wherever she goes, Hadley goes too — a routine that the two now have down to a science. “Hadley is still in bed early every night, and every decision I make is based on, ‘Is it going to work for Hadley and I?’” she says.
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MARCH Calendar of EventsWhat’s Goin’ On? March 1-9
Cleveland Metroparks History of Maple Sugaring, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Take a hike along the Sugarbush Trail and view sap collecting methods. Don’t forget to visit the Sugarhouse where boiling sap transforms into tasty maple syrup. Rocky River Reservation, 24000 Valley Pkwy., North Olmsted, 216-635-3200, clevelandmetroparks.com
Ongoing/Month-Long Events Every Sunday Geauga Park District’s The Sky Tonight Planetarium Show, 2-3 p.m. Visit the park for a planetarium presentation on what to watch for each week. Building open house hours are every Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center, 10610 Clay St., Montville Township, 440-286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org Through August 31 Something’s Afoot: Nature Just Can’t Stay Put (Indoor Exhibit) 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Experience the momentum of nature in the process of migration, propagation, transportation, regeneration and the struggle for survival. All of nature is on the move — all the time. The West Woods Nature Center, 9465 Kinsman Road, Russell Township, 440-286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org
March 8, 9, 15 & 16 Maple Madness Tour, 10 a.m.5 p.m. Geauga Park District is a featured stop on this statewide 2014 drive-it-yourself tour of local maple sugaring operations. Maps are available at ohiomapleproducers.com; Amish sugar bushes included on Saturdays. Swine Creek Reservation, 440-834-1415. Wheelchair/stroller accessible.
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March 21 through April 20 I-X Indoor Amusement Park With more than 20 acres of rides and fun, the I-X Indoor Amusement Park features mini-golf, a variety of rides, the Soaring Eagle Zipline, the new White Water Ride, live performances and food and beverage vendors. Children 3 and younger are free. I-X Center, One I-X Drive, Cleveland, 800-8973942, ixamusementpark.com Through March 27 Play, Learn and Grow Workshops Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m., A fiveweek series for parents and children ages 1 to 3. Parents can meet and question community experts in the areas of child development, speech and language, nutrition, play, movement and music. Registration is required. Warrensville Heights Library, 4415 Northfield Road, Warrensville Heights, 216-4645280, cuyahogalibrary.org
March 2014
March 1-9 Cleveland Auto Show, featuring concept, pre-production and production vehicles from the world’s auto manufacturers, the show is held annually at the I-X Center with nearly 1.2 million square feet of exhibits. I-X Center, One I-X Drive, Cleveland, clevelandautoshow.com
March 4-16 “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” Retelling the Biblical story of Joseph, his 11 brothers and the coat of many colors. Palace Theatre, 1615 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-241-6000, playhousesquare.org
Chalet Toboggan Chutes The Cleveland Metroparks Toboggan Chute Season at the Cleveland Metroparks Chalet is open (weather permitting). 16200 Valley Pkwy., Strongsville, 216-635-3200, clevelandmetroparks.com
March 14-16 Cleveland Home + Remodeling Expo. Get advice from leading home experts, stroll through the feature gardens and check out the latest building products and decorating trends. Cleveland Convention Center, 300 Lakeside Ave., Cleveland, 440-248-5729, homeandremodelingexpo.com
SANDstruction, 10 a.m.-4:45 p.m. daily. More than 70 tons of sand will transform the exhibit hall into a giant construction site where kids can create their own sand sculptures. The Children’s Museum of Cleveland, 10730 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-791-7114, clevelandchildrensmuseum.org
March 19-30 Cleveland International Film Festival, The Cleveland International Film Festival promotes artistically and culturally significant films through education and exhibition to enrich the life of the community. Also sponsors screenings in Akron. Tower City
Skating at Wade Oval
March 1-17 The Rink at Wade Oval Tie on your skates at one of Cleveland’s only outdoor iceskating rinks. University Circle Inc., 10831 Magnolia Drive, Cleveland 216-791-3900, universitycircle.org March 1-29 Glass Blowing Demonstrations, every Saturday, 1:30-5 p.m. Learn about the history of blown glass and its importance to the development of Ohio during free demonstrations. Canal Fulton Glassworks, 215 Market St., West Canal Fulton 330-854-2966, canalfultonglassworks.com
Cinemas, 737 Canal Road, Cleveland, 877-304-3456, clevelandfilm.org Saturday, March 1 Battle of the Books, 10 a.m. A trivia competition about the books “Lincoln’s Grave Robbers” by Steve Sheinkin and “The Giver” by Lois Lowry. The top contenders will go on to compete at the regional “Battle” this summer. AkronSummit County Main Library, 60 S. High St., Akron, 330-643-9000, akronlibrary.org Seussapalooza, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Join Mrs. Haag for the annual Dr. Seuss storytime celebration.
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Families will enjoy stories, songs and fun activity stations. Garfield Heights Branch, 5409 Turney Road, Garfield Heights, 216-475-8178, cuyahogalibrary.org Breakfast Bunch Book Club, 10:45-11:30 a.m., grades 4-7. Read and talk about some of the newest, most exciting and fun books in the library. Brooklyn Branch Library, 4480 Ridge Road, Brooklyn, 216-398-4600, cuyahogalibrary.org Saturday Story Time Sampler, 11 a.m. A story time for preschoolprimary children and an adult caregiver, with crafts or another activity. Akron-Summit County Main Library, 60 S. High St., Akron, 330-643-9000, akronlibrary.org
Tuesday, March 4 Open the Door to China, 4-6:15 p.m. An introduction to Chinese language and culture. Learn through hands-on activity and interactive games. Grades 1-4, registration required. Brooklyn Branch, Conference Room, 4480 Ridge Road, Brooklyn, 216-3984600, cuyahogalibrary.org
Cleveland Kurentovanje Festival, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Kurentovanje is a popular carnival event in Slovenia, and its central figure, the Kurent, is believed to chase away winter and usher in spring. The day will be filled with costumes, a parade, food and drink, heritage and fuzzy Kurents. St. Clair Ave., Cleveland clevelandkurentovanje.com
creatures, animal encounters, dancing, music and story time with Captain NEO. Greater Cleveland Aquarium, 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, 216-862-8803, greaterclevelandaquarium.com
Dr. Seuss Birthday Party, 2-3 p.m. Ages 3 and older, registration required. Celebrate the birthday of beloved children’s book author, Dr. Seuss. Join for stories, games, crafts and cake. Chagrin Fall Branch, Meeting Room (Main Floor), 100 East Orange St., Chagrin Falls, 440-247-3556, cuyahogalibrary.org Teen Job & Volunteer Fair, 2-4 p.m. Teens can connect with local businesses and organizations for information about jobs and volunteer opportunities. Grades 812. Warrensville Heights Branch Library, Homework Center/Story & Craft Room, 4415 Northfield Road, Warrensville Heights, 216-4645280, cuyahogalibrary.org Monday, March 3 Toddler Time at Greater Cleveland Aquarium, 8:30-10 a.m. Every first Monday of the month, the aquarium opens its doors just for toddlers and their parents before regular hours begin. 2-4 year olds can enjoy sea
Family Living At Its Best
Kurentovanje Festival Mardi Gras Party, 6-8:30 p.m. Celebrate Mardi Gras Maple Heights style — with beads, masks, music, food and a jazz parade. Maple Heights Branch, Meeting Room (Room 1), 5225 Library Lane, Maple Heights, 216475-5000, cuyahogalibrary.org Teens and Beyond Book Group, 6:30 p.m. A lively book group for those with an appreciation of teen fiction. This month’s discussion is “The Raven Boys” by Maggie Stiefvater. Hosted by the Main Branch of Akron Summit Library. The Nervous Dog Cafe, 1530 W. Market St., Akron, 330-643-9000, akronlibrary.org RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles, 7:30 p.m. RAIN performs the full range of The Beatles’ discography live on stage. EJ Thomas Hall, University of Akron, 198 Hill St., Akron, 330-972-7570, uakron.edu Wednesday, March 5 American Girl Book Club, 4-5 p.m. For girls ages 8-12. Each
month a different book is discussed. Girls will also make a craft for one of the historical American Girl dolls. Please read “Meet Rebecca” and register monthly. Mentor Main Library, Children’s Story Room (Main, 2nd Floor), 8215 Mentor Ave., Mentor, 440-255-8811, mentorpl.org Fire & Ice, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Foggy dry ice storms, giant beach balls floating in the air and even a special Mad Science burp potion will amaze children as they learn about chemical reactions, air pressure and the states of matter. Orange Branch, 31300 Chagrin Blvd., Pepper Pike, 216-831-4282, cuyahogalibrary.org Teen Cake Decorating Workshop, Grades 6-12, 7-8 p.m. Learn some basic skills in creative cake — and cookie — decorating. Get hands-on experience using frosting tips, a pastry bag and colored frosting, plus take home your decorated cookies. All supplies provided. Parma Branch, Conference Room A, 6996 Powers Blvd., Parma, 440-885-5362, cuyahogalibrary.org Thursday, March 6 Write It Out, 4-5 p.m. A hang-out for teens. Learn about writing creative, horror, poetry, even crazy stories. Fun, quirky and challenging writing exercises focus on different writing aspects each session. Refreshments provided. Fairview Park Branch, Storytime Room, 21255 Lorain Road, Fairview Park, 440-333-4700, cuyahogalibrary.org Socrates Café, 6:30-8 p.m. An ongoing, regular discussion for patrons 16 and over. A place to discuss life with other adults and explore questions we all ask ourselves in a friendly and open manner. Nordonia Hills Branch Library, 9458 Olde Eight Road, Northfield, 330-467-8595, nordoniahillsbranch.akronlibrary.org Friday, March 7 Timbertots: Maple Sugar Time, 1-2 p.m. For children ages 3-5 with an adult. Collect sap in small buckets and visit the sugar house as you learn about maple syrup.
This activity takes place entirely outdoors so dress appropriately. Registration available online. Swine Creek Reservation, 16004 Hayes Road, Middlefield Township, 440-286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org Saturday, March 8 Mogadore Library Book Sale, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Find new-to-you books, music and more at the book sale. Mogadore Branch Library, 144 S. Cleveland Ave., Mogadore, 330-628-9228, mogadorebranch.akronlibrary.org Builders’ Club, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Club members will construct with LEGO bricks once a month. Students will complete a challenge and then spend free time building whatever inspires them. Berea Branch, Large Meeting Room, 7 Berea Commons, Berea, 440-2345475, cuyahogalibrary.org Suncatchers, 12-1 p.m. Explore light and make your very own suncatcher to take home. Maple Valley Branch, Akron-Summit Library, 1187 Copley Road, Akron, 330-864-5721, maplevalleybranch.akronlibrary.org Yoga Story Time: “Green Eggs and Ham,” 2:30-3:15 p.m. Yoga program features the story “Green Eggs and Ham.” Ages 5-12. Solon Branch, Story/Craft Room, 34125 Portz Parkway, Solon, 440248-8777, cuyahogalibrary.org Geauga Park District’s Tree Tapper’s Ball, 7:30-10:30 p.m. Celebrate the maple season with an old-fashioned square dance. The Cordwood Cut-ups will provide old-time string band music. Parkman Community House, 16295 Main Market (U.S. Rt. 422), Parkman, 440-286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org Sunday, March 9 Fix It! With Bob The Builder, 11-11:30 a.m. Families will join Bob as he makes decisions on building a house in this interactive story time. (Also happening March 29-30.) The Children’s Museum of Cleveland, 10730 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-791-7114, clevelandchildrensmuseum.org
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What’s Goin’ O
MARCH Calendar of Events
Maple Valley Branch, 1187 Copley Road, Akron, 330-864-5721, maplevalleybranch.akronlibrary.org
Disney Live. Mickey’s Music Festival, shows at 1 and 4 p.m. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy will be performing in a music mash-up of mega proportions. Concert-goers will hear Disney favorites remixed to rock, pop, reggae, hip-hop, jazz and country. Quicken Loans Arena, 1 Center Court, Cleveland, 216420-2000, theqarena.com Tuesday, March 11 Guitar Hero Tuesdays, 3:304:30 p.m. A chance for kids of all ages to hang out and play Guitar Hero. Ellet Branch Library, 2470 E. Market St., Akron, 330-784-2019, elletbranch.akronlibrary.org
Friday, March 14 The Sing-Off Tour Live, 8 p.m. “The Sing-Off,” NBC’s a cappella music competition, presents “The Sing-Off Live Tour,” featuring the newly crowned best a cappella group in the country, along with other finalists from season 4. State Theatre, 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-241-6000, playhousesquare.org Music Therapy & More, 9:30 a.m. Connecting for Kids and Music Therapy Enrichment Corps Music Therapy group. Learn direct role in bringing music to life. Ages 1-6. Siblings are welcome. Children do not need a formal diagnosis to attend. Space is limited. Westlake Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, 440-250-5563, connectingforkids.org
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March 14 Baby Play Group, 12-1 p.m. For babies up to 24 months with a caregiver. Meet new friends and bring your little one to the library for a first group play experience. Join other moms, dads, grandmas and caregivers for a group playtime. The library will provide a meeting room and developmentally appropriate toys. Tallmadge Branch Library, 90 Community Road, Tallmadge, 330-633-4345, tallmadgebranch.akronlibrary.org
March 2014
Sunday, March 16 Geauga Park District’s Full Moon Program: The Worm Moon, 8-9:30 p.m. A full moon in March is known as a “worm moon.” Visit Observatory Park to get a grip on earthworm anatomy and behavior, then watch the full moon rise. Observatory Park, Robert McCullough Science Center, 10610 Clay St., Montville Township, 440286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org Monday, March 17 Cleveland St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 1:04 p.m. The Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade will begin at the intersection of Superior Ave. and East 18th St. The parade will travel on to Superior
Ave. to East Roadway, and then on to Rockwell Ave., ending at the intersection of Rockwell Ave. and East 6th St. 216-556-5183, stpatricksdaycleveland.com Jazz: A Musical History, 6:308:45 p.m. An interactive jazz performance from The Jazz Initiative. Throughout this familyfriendly 90-minute performance, participants will receive a guided history of the traditions and innovations of this uniquely American art form. South Euclid, Lyndhurst, Meeting Room (Great Hall), 4645 Mayfield Road, South Euclid, 216-382-4880, cuyahogalibrary.org
Thursday, March 20 UA Jazzfest 2014, 7:30 p.m., also Friday, March 21 at 7:30 p.m. Cleveland native Dominick Farinacci joins the UA Faculty Jazz Ensemble for a night of new treats and familiar favorites in the Stage Door’s jazz club. EJ Thomas Hall, University of Akron, 198 Hill St., Akron, 330-972-7570, uakron.edu Friday, March 21 Mother Goose on the Loose Story Time, 10-10:30 a.m. A fourweek interactive program for children up to 30 months. This program uses rhymes, songs, puppets, musical instruments and more to stimulate the learning process in babies and toddlers. The Read House, Mentor Public Library, 8245 Mentor Ave., Mentor, 440-255-8811, mentorpl.org
Thursday, March 13 “The Jungle Book” Movie Showing, 3-5 p.m. Bring your kids to watch the Disney classic film, “The Jungle Book.” Run time for the film is 78 minutes. Rated G.
“Beauty and the Beast” presented by Ballet Excel Ohio, 2:30 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. Also, Sunday, March 16 at 2:30 p.m. Come and see the classic French fairy tale brought to life on stage at the World Premiere of Tom Gold’s “Beauty and the Beast.” Akron Civic Theatre, 182 South Main St., Akron, 330-253-2488, akroncivic.com Big Night Out & Silent Auction, 6 p.m. Enjoy the tastes and sounds of a Parisian Café at the largest fundraiser of the year. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased through Valley Christian Academy. Valley Christian Academy, 1037 East Blvd., Aurora, 330-562-8191, valleychristian.com
Family Literacy Night: Learn How to Develop a Positive Self Image, 7-8 p.m. A positive selfimage is a major key to success in life. Students will learn how to examine their self-esteem and its effects on their behavior and success. Parma Branch, Homework Center, 6996 Powers Blvd., Parma, 440-885-5362, cuyahogalibrary.org Wednesday, March 12 Free Homework Help, 3-5 p.m. Free homework help for grades K6. The library provides everything you’ll need to get your homework done. School supplies, computers, math help, type and print school assignments, etc. Stop in anytime, no registration required. Maple Valley Branch, 1187 Copley Road, Akron, 330-864-5721, maplevalleybranch.akronlibrary.org
Saturday, March 15 Buzzard Day The legend dates to the turn of the century and each year, the turkey vultures return to roost. Come out to view this historic and entertaining event. The following Sunday, Hinckley celebrates the return of the birds with a hot pancake and sausage breakfast at the elementary school. Bird shirts and costumes are encouraged. Hinckley Chamber of Commerce, 1410 Ridge Road, Hinckley, 330-278-2066, hinckleyohchamber.com
Happy St. Patrick’s Day
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Saturday, March 22 Kids Create: Sprouting Seed Necklace, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Make it Take it Crafts the fourth Saturday of each month. Pick up a craft kit all day while supplies last. Fairlawn-Bath Branch, 3101 Smith Road, Akron, 330-666-4888, fairlawnbathbranch.akronlibrary.org
Medina County District Library Presents: Eric Litwin, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Eric Litwin, New York Times-best-selling author of “Pete the Cat” picture books and performing artist plays guitar, sings, tells musical stories and brings books to life. Highland High School Auditorium, 4150 Ridge Road, Medina, 330-725-0588, mcdl.info Board Game Day and Wii Play, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Play fun board games and Wii games. Meet new people. There will be refreshments provided to those whose parent or guardian has signed a release form prior to the program. Prizes too. Ages 10-18. Please register. Parma-Snow Branch Story/Craft Room, 2121 Snow Road, Parma, 216-661-4240, cuyahogalibrary.org Sunday, March 23 Art Reach Tour Theatre presents “Sleeping Beauty” at 2:30 p.m. An enchanted spindle curses Sleeping Beauty to 100 years of sleep. Although protected by her fairy godmother, will anyone be able to save her? ArtReach brings the classic fairy tale by Charles Perrault to life in this enchanting adaptation. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 South Main St., Akron, 330253-2488, akroncivic.com Monday, March 24 Tiny Tales Baby Time, 10:15 a.m. Children ages 6-24 months with adult caregiver are welcome to join Miss Jessica for stories, rhymes, music, instruments and playtime. Fairlawn-Bath Branch, 3101 Smith Road, Akron, 330-666-4888, fairlawnbathbranch.akronlibrary.org
Family Living At Its Best
Get the Northeast Ohio Parent Calendar of Events on your smart device Demi Lovato Neon Lights Tour, 7 p.m. Platinum-selling music artist and “The X Factor” judge Demi Lovato will perform. Also features Cher Lloyd and “X Factor” March 22-23 finalists Fifth Harmony. Quicken KidShow at Great Lakes Mall 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.- Loans Arena, 1 Center Court, Cleveland, 216-420-2000, 5 p.m. Sunday The 16th Annual KidShow is a free theqarena.com event featuring live entertainment, activities for kids of all ages, give- Family Story Time, 7-7:30 p.m. All ages will enjoy story time, aways and fun for the whole music, rhymes and a craft. All family, including the Lake Metroparks Greenman Group that children must be accompanied by will be performing at 4:30 p.m. on an adult. Mentor Main Library, Children’s Story Room, 8215 Saturday. 7850 Mentor Ave., Mentor Ave., Mentor, 440-255Mentor. usepromark.com 8811, mentorpl.org Tuesday, March 25 “Memphis The Musical,” 7:30 p.m., also Wednesday, March 26. From the underground dance clubs of 1950s Memphis, Tenn., comes a hot new Broadway musical that bursts off the stage with explosive dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and forbidden love. EJ Thomas Hall, University of Akron, 198 Hill St., Akron, 330-972-7570, uakron.edu Kindergarten Readiness Speaker, 7:30 p.m. Shelley Doerschuk, Early Childhood Education Instructor at Malone University, will help parents answer two key questions: “Is my child ready for kindergarten?” and “How can I best prepare my child for kindergarten?” Free and open to the public. Valley Christian Academy, 1037 East Blvd., Aurora, 330-562-8191, valleychristian.com Thursday, March 27 Facebook Basics Computer Class, 10-11:30 a.m. Learn how to use Facebook. This hands-on class will demonstrate basic Facebook features, tips and tricks. Bring your Facebook login information and password. Mentoron-the-Lake Branch, Sandra G. Schudel Memorial Room, 5642 Andrews Road, Mentor-on-theLake, 440-257-2512, mentorpl.org
Friday, March 28 Geauga Park District’s Hubble’s Greatest Hits, 7-8 p.m. From its construction in the 1970s to present day, the Hubble Space Telescope has been the superstar of astronomy. See the amazing discoveries this pioneering machine has enabled. If weather permits, program will be followed by night-sky viewing using park telescopes. Observatory Park,
Robert McCullough Science Center, 10610 Clay St., Montville Township, 440-286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org Saturday, March 29 Cinderella Celebration, 2-2:45 p.m. A Royal Celebration in honor of Cinderella. A story, craft and royal games will make this a special day. Dress as your favorite prince or princess. Ages 4-6. Solon Branch, Craft Room, 34125 Portz Pkwy., Solon, 440-248-8777, cuyahogalibrary.org Oompa-LoompBOT Challenge, 2-4 p.m. Program a robot to navigate Mr. Wonka’s mysterious and magical rooms of delicious confection from Roald Dahl’s famous book “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” Parents should complete a photo release for their child before the program. Space is limited. Registration required. Ages 8-11. North Olmstead, Large Meeting Room, 27403 Lorain Road, North Olmsted, 440-7776211, cuyahogalibrary.org
DATE!
Sunday, April 6 Pancake Breakfasts at Century Village, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. A Geauga County tradition. Maple syrup made at Century Village Museum and all the pancakes you can eat! Be sure and stop by the Crossroads Museum Store after your breakfast. 14653 East Park St., Burton, 440-834-1492, centuryvillagemuseum.org Saturday, April 12 Bake a Book, Win a Nook: Middle School Contest, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Love books and love to bake? Choose an originally published book (fiction or non-fiction), adapt it into a cake and enter the contest. Firstplace winner receives a Nook. Registration is required. Parma-Snow Branch, 2121 Snow Road, Parma, 216-661-4240, cuyahogalibrary.org Sunday, April 13 EarthFest, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Featuring 250 exhibits in nine sustainability areas. Families will enjoy all-day entertainment with eco-activities, biodiesel-powered amusement park rides, all-day music, urban farm animals, healthy food from local food trucks, local microbrews, chef demos, pony rides and more. Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 164 Eastland Road, Berea, 216-281-6468, earthdaycoalition.org
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Mom’s Health
Enjoy Less Stress in Motherhood By Jane Pernotto Ehrman With all the demands of working in or outside the home, moms might confuse self-care with selfishness. They might believe that taking any extra time for themselves takes quality time away from their family. However, self-care is taking responsibility for your health and well-being. If you don’t take care of yourself, who will? The following are some tips to help moms be well and enjoy each stage of parenting. New Baby Stress Whether it’s your first child, second or even third, what seems like an exciting time can also be exhausting. Taking cues from your baby on how to best respond can be challenging at times. When stressed, your body requires more oxygen for energy. Research shows that during meditation your body’s oxygen consumption is reduced — even more than when you sleep. Taking just five minutes to sit, mindfully breathe or focus on gratitude can rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit. A practical time for meditation or to sleep is when your child is taking a nap. Toddler and Preschooler Time Out At this stage, your children are walking and talking, along with learning from you how to take care of themselves. They mimic the practice of eating, dressing,
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bathing and other life skills. Also, children are taking in subtle messages about your beliefs in self-care related to rest, fun and “mommy time.” Parents can meditate daily and institute a “quiet time” for 30 minutes. Have your children play, look at books or listen to audiobooks. This teaches them to entertain and quiet themselves, and helps them recognize that parents need time too. The Tween-Teen Years Just because moms are grown up doesn’t mean they no longer need to play and have fun. Including relaxation and fun in your day creates life balance, improves your perspective and can be healing. Making time to let off steam and relax will help you keep your sense of humor as your children enter their tweens and teens. At this stage of parenting, wouldn’t you like to respond to challenging situations with greater clarity, good perspective and tolerance? Research suggests people are more tolerant, less reactive and make better decisions when they regularly practice stress management tools. Over the course of a few weeks, you can re-wire your brain for greater responsiveness and positivity. First, take a few minutes for yourself before your household starts the day, or take a “break” or “mommy time” at the end of the day. There are easy-to-use stress-relief tools, which include focused breathing practices, mindfulness meditation, guided imagery, yoga and even prayer. You may think that social media and
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other Internet activities are good ways to relax. However, frequent use of screens, such as phones, tablets and other devices, is numbing, and the light emitted interferes with sleep. There are a variety of programs and classes to help you learn the tools to be well and enjoy your role as a mom. Jane Pernotto Ehrman is a behavioral health specialist for Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Lifestyle Medicine, Wellness Institute. The Wellness Institute offers a variety of programs and classes. Visit myclevelandclinic.org/wellness or clevelandclinicwellness.com.
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When it hits the month of March, your kids’ spring break isn’t far away. While you might be planning to stay home this year, your activities don’t have to be limited to your hometown. Many places provide daily fun with special spring events. Also, for parents who have a variety of age ranges, the region provides opportunities for little ones to teens.
Animal Attractions The Akron Zoo is offering students in grades 7-12 an opportunity to be a zoo professional for a day. Zoorific Career Days are offered March 24 and 31, April 19, 21, 26 and 28 and May 5 and 12, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participants will spend time with keepers, animal trainers and education staff to learn about what it’s like to work at a zoo. Registration is required. Call 330-375-2550 ext. 723. 500 Edgewood Ave., Akron, akronzoo.org Cleveland Metroparks Zoo offers Spring Break Camp March 23-28 and April 21-25. Children ages 5-8 will explore the zoo, focusing on the activity of the animals during the spring and what the zoo does to keep them comfortable year round. The camp includes tours of zoo exhibits, Get-Close encounters with small animals, arts and crafts, and conservation-themed games and stories. Call 216-635-3391 or email programregistration@ clevelandmetroparks.com. 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, clemetzoo.com Fun on the Farm Bring the family down to Hale Farm & Village March 15, 16, 22 and 23 to celebrate the annual Maple Sugar Festival & Pancake Breakfast. The process of maple sugar production is an age-old tradition in the Cuyahoga Valley. Enjoy the craft and trade demonstrations, make your own maple sugar candy and explore the history of the Hale family. 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath, 330-666-3711, wrhs.org
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Maple Sugaring Season at Lake Metroparks Farmpark on Weekends through March 23, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Take a wagon ride to the Woodland Center to witness the entire maple process as sap is collected, boiled and turned into maple syrup and other products. Adults, $6; Youth 2 –11, $4; Ages 2 and younger, and Farmpark members, free. Akron Zoo Zoorific Career Days 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-256-2122, $10 for adults and $5 for children. lakemetroparks.com 6560 Akron-Peninsula Road, Peninsula, 330-657-2012, Spicy Lamb Farm in Peninsula thespicylamb.com offers Shearing Days and Lambing Go Out, Get Moving Days. Visit the farm and watch a Spring is almost here! On March 22, sheep shearing demonstration. Or 12:30-2 p.m., children ages 6-11 Adopt-a-Sheep and help shear and will explore the Mill Creek get a custom heirloom blanket. Or Metroparks Spring Gardens in see newborn lambs, ducklings, search of signs of spring. Learn why chicks and bunnies. Shearing Days: plants start emerging and growing, March 29 and 30, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. plus make your own sundial. Held Lambing Days: April 5 and 12, 9-11 at Fellows Riverside Gardens. Rega.m. and April 6 and 13, 2-4 p.m.
Family Living At Its Best
istration required. Fee: $5 123 McKinley Ave., Youngstown, 330-740-7116, millcreekmetroparks.org Come enjoy the New Moon at West Creek Reservation in Parma. Learn about the constellations overhead and check out the park at night. March 29, 7-10 p.m. This free event is for all ages. 2277 West Ridgewood Dr., Parma, 440-887-1968, clevelandmetroparks.com Theatre, Museums & Tours The Children’s Museum of Cleveland offers “Terrific Tuesdays,” occurring on the second Tuesday of the month, 5-7:30 p.m. Admission is free. Explore the interactive hands-on exhibits after normal museum hours. 10730 Euclid Ave., Cleveland 216-791-7114, clevelandchildrensmuseum.org
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Enjoy Spring Break Without Breaking the Bank Brown-Bag It: Pack a lunch for your outing. A hiking trail or a walk through the park could lead to the perfect place for lunch. Sandwiches are travel-friendly and can be catered to individual tastes. Fruit, nuts and trail mixes are easy to make and don’t need temperature regulation. Be sure to bring lots of water or juice to keep everyone hydrated. Time It Right: Many indoor parks are priced fairly and some even offer group discounts. Some locations might have lower admission rates at different times during the day. Plan your outing the night before to see if you can save a few bucks. Free Outdoor Fun: A neighborhood playground, a park, just about anything can be enjoyed with some simple planning. Bring games, sports equipment and snacks. Hike the trails at a Metropark, bike the Towpath Trail or visit the area nature centers.
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Art Reach Tour Theatre presents “Sleeping Beauty,� at the Akron Civic Theatre, March 23, 2:30 p.m. An enchanted spindle curses Sleeping Beauty to 100 years of sleep. Although protected by her fairy godmother, will anyone be able to save her? ArtReach brings the classic fairy tale by Charles Perrault to life in this enchanting adaptation. 182 S. Main St., Akron, 330-253-2488, akroncivic.com
Family Living At Its Best
Fannie May Chocolate Tours. The aroma of chocolate will envelope you as soon as you arrive at the Fannie May/Harry London facility in North Canton. During the free, 45-minute guided tour, visitors will get an in-depth look at how cocoa beans transform into chocolate. The tour ends with a free tasting of the chocolates. Mondays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 5353 Lauby Road, North Canton, 800-3210444, ext 119. fanniemay.com/chocolate-tour
Fannie May/Harry London
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Alternative Spring Break Experiences These unique opportunities just might turn into something the
family does together regularly. Volunteer for a Day. Cleveland Browns Linebacker Jabaal Sheard is recruiting volunteers to take the
pledge to be a reader, mentor or tutor. 1331 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-436-2100, unitedway.org/teamsheard. The United Way of Summit County offers Done in a Day Opportunities where a group of volunteers can make a valued contribution by volunteering a half day or full day at a local nonprofit agency. The Volunteer Center will work with your group to match interests with a project needed in the community. Contact Andrea Metzler at 330-643-5512 or ametzler@uwsummit.org. 90 N. Prospect St., Akron, 330-762-7601, uwsummit.org Staying in Northeast Ohio for Spring Break doesn’t have to turn into a week that would more likely be called Spring Boredom. There’s plenty of fun happening in the region to make the days pass as if you really were on vacation.
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MarketPlace
To advertise in Northeast Ohio Parent’s MarketPlace, contact sales consultant Andie Martin at 330-670-1234 ext. 207 or email her at andie@northeastohioparent.com.
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Westlake Recreation Center March 24, 25 and 26
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This young skier is ready for the trails at Chapin Forest Reservation Pine Lodge Ski Center.
Sophia skated at Lock 3’s 10,000square-foot ice rink in Downtown Akron.
Readers Are Getting Social! This month, readers shared a few of their favorite Northeast Ohio winter moments with us.
Sledding fun in the Cleveland Metroparks.
Instagram user @laws_mama1014 submitted a photo of this sledding cutie!
kron ry of A nd Ave their new a e m ff Grae show o ow friend. sn
Snowshoeing at Lake Metroparks.
Austin, Zachary and Jack enjoyed sledding at Quick Hills in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Ayden from Orville is very proud of his festive snowman.
Cleveland Metroparks toboggan run
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