5/1/17-FAF by Adams Street Publishing Co.

FREE MAY 2017

2 Unforgettable fun for every child

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LA ST CH AN CE TO VO TE! 2

FAM FAVOILY 016 RITE S

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Mother's Day Memories Findlay moms share what makes their celebration special

Outdoor adventures

The best parks and playgrounds on every side of town

Cedar Valley Variety

The CafĂŠ offers Mediterranean and American favorites

• May 2017 • www.findlayfamily.com

Volume 7 • Issue 5 May 2017

[special features]

du p Playground Roun

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Mother’s Day Reflections

Awesome adventures and boredom busters for every ages

departments community snapshots

what’s briefly happening

new kids

Dahlia, 1, Findlay

Free outdoor fun on every side of town

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Online

MAY

Spend more time in the spring air and dine out at local places where your kids can eat for free!

exceptional families 8 healthy kids 16

Most read articles in April

momfit 17

1. The Best Small City in the USA

cultural connections 18

2. Findlay Schools:

calendar 21

An Education to be Proud of

marketplace 23

commentary parent profile 19 A New Chapter for LB Schools

Liberty Benton Schools welcomes new superintendent Mark Kowalski By Halley Sullivan

food fight 20 Cedar Valley Café

Offering bothMediterranean and American favorites By Betsey Watson Corrections The Cultural Connections family image in the March issue was incorrectly noted. The family pictured: The Dastan family, originally from Turkey, has enjoyed living in Findlay for about three years. Pictured are Mustafa and Tulay Dastan and their sons Arda, 13, (left) and Bora, 9 (right). Adams St. Publishing regrets the error.

#dadsnaps

Kids Eat Free!

tween the lines 8

NEW COLUMN

On the cover

[Always online] Need new childcare? Looking for a school for your little learners? We can help! Our Children and Preschool Guide can help you find the perfect place!

3. Playing Piano Enriches Lives and Instills Discipline

Send us your favorite snap of you and your Dad to be entered to win him a great Father’s Day gift.

Find us on Instagram @ FindlayAreaFamily

tag us in the photo, and use the hashtag #dadsnaps by May 21. You and your Dad might even end up in our June issue!

Find the best fit for your family

Childcare & preschool guide

Blogs by local moms, for local moms, are at your fingertips. Relatable and hilarious reads online at

findlayfamily.com

Join us and our 1,500+ followers for laughs, updates & parenting discussions.

Like Us on

Facebook!

2328 likes and counting!

www.findlayfamily.com • May 2017 •

Adams Street Publishing Co.

An inside look at what we’re loving for parents this month

Best advice your mom gave you

Garden Central

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Gift mom stunning flowers that will last long after Mother’s Day. Garden Central has been hand-selecting only the highest quality flowers for their garden center since 2008. 4’’ potted geraniums, costing less than $5, will make a vibrant addition to any decorative pot or hanging basket. These beautiful blooms will remind mom just how much you care all summer long! (419) 425-2965, 430 E Main Cross St.,gardencentralfindlay.com, “Garden Central” on Facebook

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) Remember to smile

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) Family First

Editorial

Assignment Editor Emilee Roberts (editor2@findlayfamily.com)

Dietsch Brothers Fine Chocolates & Ice Cream

Every mom deserves a little luxury. The 12 piece Gourmet Truffle Sampler ($14.50) from Dietsch Brothers is just that, luxurious. This elegant assortment of truffles features flavors such as Milk Chocolate Champagne, Dark Chocolate Raspberry and Milk Chocolate Coffee. Each sampler box is carefully wrapped and then hand tied with a fabric ribbon that is sure to make Mom happy. 419-422-4474, 400 West Main Cross Street,dietschs.com, “Dietsch Brothers Fine Chocolates & Ice Cream” on Facebook

Objects of Desire Artful Living

Associate Editor Athena Cocoves (athena@adamsstreetpublishing.com) You decide your own worth. Staff Writer Jeff Klima (jklima@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Don’t have kids Calendar Scott Peterson (calendar@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Follow your passion. Contributing Writers Bridget Adams, Heidi Borst, Athena Cocoves, Kimberly FeldkampCarolyn Jabs, Jeff Klima, Sam Melden, Emily Remaklus, Karen Zickes

Many women think of dandelions as weeds right up until the moment a child says, “Here Mommy, I picked you a flower!” The handblown, 3.5 inch “I Love you, Mom!” vase by Henrietta Glass Company is available for purchase at Objects of Desire Artful Living gift shop for $20 and is the perfect vessel for holding some of life’s most special blooms. Featuring a heart shaped opening and vibrantly colored blue bulb the “I Love You, Mom!” vase is not only meaningful but a one of a kind piece of art. (567) 301-2486, 214 W Front St,desireltd.com, “Objects of Desire Artful Living” on Facebook

Art/Production

Production Manager Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Learn 3 things today Senior Designer Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Do it right the first time

Style Encore

Spoil mom with the look for less at Style Encore. Whether she’s into designer sunglasses, purses, clothes, or jewelry, Style Encore has an ever growing selection of merchandise for your Mother’s Day gifting needs. What’s unique about Style Encore are the prices, which are 70% off retail. Because it is a highly curated consignment shop, only purchasing high-end brands and the latest styles, you can expect quality in every item. Grab a gift card for mom and let her enjoy browsing the shop! (419) 422-4600, 1821 Tiffin Ave,style-encorefindlay.com, “Style Encore- Findlay, OH” on Facebook

Graphic Design Anita Tipton (atipton@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Always stash money Kelli Miller (kmiller@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Everything has it’s place

Advertising

Sales Coordinator Jenny Leach (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) All of it!! Sales John Rankins (jrankins@adamsstreetpublishing.com ) Think for yourself

Also publishers of:

Audited by

Classifieds Catherine Bohr (classifieds@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Put on sunscreen and drink lots of water

Administration

Accounting Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) Love them like they’ll not be there tomorrow

Advertising/General Info For advertising and general information, call 419/244-9859 or fax 419/244-9871. E-mail ads to adsin@adamsstreetpublishing.com. Deadline for advertising copy 2 p.m. Friday before publication. Toledo Area Parent subscriptions are available by mail for $30 per year at Adams Street Publishing, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, Ohio 43604. One copy free per person per week; extra copies $1 each. Persons taking copies for any reason other than personal use are subject to prosecution. Letters to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are subject to editing, and should include the writer’s full name and phone number. Any letter submitted to the editor or publisher may be printed at the publisher’s discretion in issues subsequent to its receipt. Entire contents © 2017 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without written permission of the publisher.

Distribution Anne Harrington (distribution@adamsstreetpublishing.com) There is a right way to do things and a wrong way to do things Tech Manager Saul Jacobs (saul@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Wear sunscreen Web Guru Ashley Boardman (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Don’t do drugs

Back To School

GUIDE

Check it out in August! Issue Date: Aug 1st Reserve By: July 15th

• May 2017 • www.findlayfamily.com

COMMUNITY

SNAPS SNAP IT+ SEND IT

We love to see what the community is up to. Send your favorite pics with names, ages and hometown to production@adamsstreetpublishing.com Who knows... It may end up on the cover!

May Giveaway

Getting ready through summer means...Back to school! Little Learners, Thayer Backpack Our Thayer backpacks are perfectly sized for your little one starting their education adventure. But be warned...this bag is so dang cute, they may fill it with toys and take it with them everywhere they go. It’s been known to happen.

How to enter: Send your favorite moments to editor2@findlayfamily.com by May 31st for a chance to win this great prize! Please be sure to include your child’s name, age and city.

Evan Snoke, 4, Findlay

HHWP CAC Head Start Where the Love of Learning Begins FREE Preschool for 3-5 year old children Now Enrolling for the 2017-2018 school year Half day and Full day options available Check us out on Facebook

419-423-3147

545 Winfield Ave, Findlay U www.hhwpcac.org

www.findlayfamily.com • May 2017 •

Compiled by Rose Carver

Findlay MOPS Kicks Off Diaper Drive Imagine on top of all the stresses of motherhood, the added stress of not being able to buy diapers for your child. This is the reality for too many mothers. Despite being a basic hygiene need, government assistance programs do not provide for the purchasing of diapers.

Keep on rocking

Seen any colorful rocks lately? A fun trend involving stones with uplifting messages painted on them has rocked Findlay. The typically flat stones contain messages like “Findlay Rocks” and “Be a Little Boulder,” messages of inspiration to make your day a little less rocky. Follow the “Findlay Rocks” tag online to be part of a spreading social happening. Abby Nichols, a Findlay transplant to Jefferson City, MO, learned about the grassroots positivity movement and, when she came back to Findlay for a visit, brought the practice with her. If you happen to see a stone you love around town, feel free to take it home. The only catch? You have to make one to replace it and brighten someone else’s day. For more details, see the “Findlay Rocks” Facebook group. –JK

Paint for charity

Want to have a fun night out AND do some good for a great organization? Check out Paint and Partake nights, hosted by special needs educational non-profit organization Awakening Minds Art. Monthly events, Paint and Partake feature activities for children and adults, teaching painting while including an additional activity. Good news wine lovers: several of the adult events feature a vino tasting component and, usually, appetizers or a meal. There are several events to choose from in May and something for almost any budget. All proceeds benefit AMA. For a schedule of events and prices, see paintandpartake.org –JK

To help diminish this struggle, Findlay MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) sponsored by First Presbyterian Church, will host a diaper drive from May 1st through May 14th. This year’s goal is to collect 20,000 diapers for moms in need. “Findlay MOPS members find value in advocating to improve mothers’ lives, so this diaper drives allows us to do just that. To work together as a community to help better the lives of low-income moms as well as to call attention to a real problem affecting too many mothers,” explains Emily McBeath, MOPS Co-Coordinator. MOPS will be partnering with The Rebecca Foundation, a national cloth diaper lending bank that provides support, education and guidance to low income or in need families. Together the groups will be accepting both new and opened packaged diapers (labeled by size), along with cloth diapers and new containers of wipes or diaper creams.

A model school

Searching for an exemplary model of inclusiveness in public schooling? Look no further than Van Buren Middle School. Their inclusiveness actually won them recognition from the Southern Poverty Law Center out of Montgomery, AL. The SPLC recognized 76 schools across the nation that demonstrated an active interest in inclusion and met criteria for designation as a Mix It Up Model School. The idea behind the Mix It Up program is to enable students to interact outside their comfort zones by encouraging them to interact with students outside their immediate social groups at lunch time. Congratulations to Van Buren Middle School for providing a shining example of promoting good humanity. 6

• May 2017 • www.findlayfamily.com

Donation boxes are available at the Broad Ave. Great Scot and First Presbyterian Church. All diapers will be donated to Hancock County Help Me Grow, Christian Clearing House and Open Arms. For more visit findlayfpc.org/ministries/ mopsmomsnext/, findlaymops@gmail. com, “Findlay MOPS” on Facebook – HS

Allison Kiefner-Burmeister, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Psychology

Discovering Psychology: Kid Edition

Finding a way for kids to learn about healthy eating and marketing can be a challenge, but the Psychology Department at the University of Findlay is taking education to a new level. Allison Kiefner-Burmeister, Ph.D., an assistant professor of psychology, is challenging kids and parents alike on the subject of psychology, saying “Our goal is to help children be healthy inside and out. Many of our studies focus on behavioral health and food marketing and how children interpret it.”

The Psychology Department has several studies currently underway for kids: behavioral health studies for ages 10-17, studies on prejudices and forming friendships for ages 4-7, and middle school studies on behavioral health and anti-bullying, are all something kids can learn from and take part in. Currently, the department is looking for participants for studies involving groups like girl or boy scouts, youth and ministry, as well as community members with kids. Anyone who would like to participate is encouraged to contact Dr. Kiefner-Burmeister at 419-434-4523 or by email at kiefner-burmeister@findlay.edu. -KN

JCPenney Is Shutting Its Doors

With the rise of online shopping, malls and brick-and- mortar stores are a dying breed. Sadly, Findlay will experience this as the JCPenney store in the Findlay Village Mall is closing, another core store claimed by the dwindling number of in-person shoppers. A hard blow for the Mall, the JCPenney store will be one of 138 stores that will shut its doors June 18. “I think it’s sad, because there are few other department stores near this area,” said Samantha Reinbolt, frequent mall-visitor and student at the University of Findlay. “I think the mall may not be as popular with JCPenney gone. I hope it gets more stores for more variety.” —KN

Fergie’s Burgers, Fries, and Pies Opens in Findlay

Fergie’s Burgers, Fries, and Pies is the newest family friendly, affordable, restaurant to open in Findlay. Featuring homemade favorites such as burgers, hotdogs, chili, and mac and cheese, in addition to grab and go sandwiches and Mini Melts ice cream (similar to Dippin Dots). Fergie’s will offer both dine-in and carryout options and will have a pick-up window for call ahead carry out orders. “Our location is very near Tall Timbers, we hope to offer workers a quick grab and go type lunch that is competitively priced but tastes a whole lot better than fast food,” explains owner, Roger Ferguson. What sets Fergie’s Burgers, Fries, and Pies apart are their fry pies. After sampling fry pies from bakeries in Holmes County, Ferguson knew he had to recreate the Amish delicacy in Findlay. Fry pies are hand held pies, similar to turnovers. Piecrust is wrapped around sweet or savory fillings, crimped closed and then fried, resulting in a delicious and portable treat. Ferguson plans to change the fry pie offerings weekly, inviting customers to come back regularly to try new flavors. —HS Fergie’s Burgers, Fries, and Pies is located at 1702 North Romick Parkway. For more information call 419-306-1541 and visit “Fergie’s Burgers, Fries, and Pies” on Facebook

Park at this Place for the Summer

Need a new haven for all of your summer treat needs or a place to kick back and refuel? The newest summer destination, Park Place Grill, recently opened their doors, happy to provide all of your summer food favorites. The new spot offers a variety of hearty entrees like burgers, sandwiches like sloppy joes and shredded chicken, hotdogs, wings, wraps, and sides like french fries and fried mushrooms. It wouldn’t be summer without ice cream, and Park Place Grill has ice cream favorites like milkshakes and sundaes with other cool drinks like floats and slushes. With Park Place Grill’s indoor and outdoor seating, it is easy for the whole family to find the perfect seat. Park Place Grill opened its doors on April 7, taking over the former spot of the Sweet Retreat of Findlay. They have transformed the building into a great place to grab burgers and ice cream. They’re right across the street from Emory Adams Park, making it a place for kids and adults to hang out and re-energize for summer fun. —KN

Just some of many outstanding features: • 40,000 BTU Burner • Cast Iron Grates • Flav-R-Zone Systems • 10 Year Burner Warranty • Fold Down Shelves

ALL GRILLS ARE PRE-SEASON SALE PRICED

Park Place Grill is located at 1600 S. Blanchard Street. For more information call 419-423-2253 and visit “Park Place Grill” on Facebook

www.findlayfamily.com • May 2017 •

THE LINES TWEEN advice for parents with children 10-16

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New Bill Proposal and Special Needs Families Proposal makes cuts to BCMH, moves it to new Medicaid program By Kelsey Nevius

A child with the Project Peace founder Sister Paulette Schroeder of the St. Francis Community.

Tweens at Peace

Local classes teach tweens the importance of nonviolence By Kelsey Nevius

With the current coverage of violence and negative events in the media, we sometimes forget to focus on the good in life and on the ways we can promote kindness and nonviolence. With the introduction of Project Peace in local schools, kids and tweens K-12 are introduced to skills to help them lead a more peaceful life.

Promoting peace to stop bullying

Project Peace, which was created by Sister Paulette Schroeder of the St. Francis Community, strives to educate children and tweens about peace and teach them nonviolence skills. While this applies to many aspects of their lives, the skills tweens learn can really help confront and stop bullying. “I teach from 7-10 nonviolence skills to 6th and 7th graders to help them feel the innate power they have within themselves to stand with confidence and respond appropriately when they encounter a bully or see someone being bullied,” said Sister Paulette in a St. Francis Community news release.

A variety of skills in a variety of classes

Classes for Project Peace teach a variety of skills, but most aim to teach tweens about the importance of nonviolence and peace, especially in trying situations. Skills learned during the classes can help tweens deal with violent situations, should they encounter one. Sister Paulette helps enforce these skills with games like group work, quizzes and tests. These skills can help tweens both academically and socially. Most classes for Project Peace are being held in Tiffin with 490 students, but the project is expanding to offer programs to around 500 additional students in rural schools. These programs and classes are brought to students with the help of charities and foundations: the classes in Tiffin are supported by the White Family Charitable Fund of the Tiffin Community Foundation and the classes in rural areas of Ohio are supported by the Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation of Texas.

Project Peace 200 St. Francis Ave., Tiffin 419-447-0435 ext. 136 projectpeacetiffin.com “Project Peace Tiffin” on Facebook

FIND. LIKE. FOLLOW. US. 8

• May 2017 • www.findlayfamily.com

Governor John Kasich’s new House Bill 49 raises some controversial budget cuts. If the bill is passed, many families in the special needs community may face problems with Medicaid and funding. The proposed budget cut will move The Bureau of Children with Medical Handicaps Program (BCMH) to the Ohio Department of Medicaid.

The cuts and the consequences

BCMH, a program in effect since 1919, currently administered by the Ohio Department of Health, gets its funding from state general revenue funds and donations. BCMH helps special needs families with multiple things, like co-pays and deductibles for medical supplies. With the new cuts proposed by Kasich, the services provided by BCMH will be administered under Medicaid, which means families will have to meet Medicaid’s financial guidelines and qualify for Medicaid to receive support under a new program called the Ohio Medicaid CMH program. Those who may not qualify for Medicaid and the new program may be grandfathered into the existing program that will continue for a few years, and the grandfathered families in the previously established CMH program will remain there until their child ages-out of the program or their financial eligibility changes.

Families worry for the future but there is hope

While some people may be aware of this proposal, others may not. Families in the special needs community worry about what this bill will mean if passed.

Many are reaching out to Governor Kasich with a petition. To view or sign, see “No To HB49, Changes to Children with Medical Handicaps Benefits” at thepetitionsite.com. On March 23, 2017 the Health and Human Services finance subcommittee took testimony from special needs parents on the plan. They decided before the hearing even ended to reject the plan to overhaul BCMH. The subcommittee recommendation is expected to be adopted by the full House, essentially road-blocking that portion of the budget plan. The bill is scheduled to be studied in the Ohio Senate through this month, before circling back to the Governor in June. If the budget language is left unchanged, which now seems unlikely, and it is signed by the Governor, it will take effect on July 1, 2017.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

2 The days are getting longer and the weather is slowly becoming warmer, which means summer break will be here soon. Looking for a fun way to keep your children engaged, entertained, and educated during those months away from school? We’ve compiled our summer camp guide, a list of local camps that are sure to make this summer a memorable one.

FHS Art Camp

Findlay High School Fine Arts Wing 1200 Broad Ave., Findlay jasonwagner@fcs.org fhsartcamp.com Dates: June 12-16; June 19-23 Ages: Age ranges vary by date - grades PK-12 Cost: $100-$180 The mission of the FHS Art Camp is to provide hands-on opportunities for campers to develop their creative potential through experiences in the visual arts. The camp promotes and encourages creative problem solving, individual expression, and exploration of ideas thereby enriching the quality of life within our community. Local art educators and artists, will work with FHS student assistants, to aid your camper in the exploration of their own creativity. Snacks and camp shirt provided.

Project HOPE Summer Camps

6645 TR 215, Findlay 419-469-0415 projecthope.st@gmail.com projecthope-equinetherapy.org

Classical Conversations Findlay Evangelical Free Church 2515 Heatherwood Dr., Findlay Mindy Meyer 419-979-8317 mmeyer@classicalconversations.com classicalconversations.com/findlay

Learning Camps for Parents and Children. Advance registration for student camps is required. Register at parentpracticum.com/event

Parents. Speakers will present practical tools for

giving your children a classical, Christian education at home. See stages of learning in every subject and discover how every subject glorifies God. Learn to reason together understanding the art of relationships. Dates: May 15-17, 9am-4pm Cost: Free

Logically Thinking. Students will learn the

basics of logic through problem solving, critical thinking games, and some interesting mysteries to solve! Even your 9-year-old will come home from camp empowered with clear reasoning skills, so parents, get ready! Optional resource: The Fallacy Detective and Introductory Logic Student Book. Dates: May 15-17, 9am-4pm Ages: 9-13 Cost: $42 GeoDraw Camp. During our popular GeoDrawing Camp, children will spend three days drawing and mastering US Maps, including the major features of the United States. Facilitators will teach the classical model and drawing skills in order to help students complete their projects. Dates: May 15-17, 9am-4pm Ages: 6-8 Cost: $42

Dates: June 3-4; June 17-18; July 15-16 Ages: Age ranges vary by week - junior high and high school and ages 5-11 Cost: $125 (scholarships available for families in need) Staff to camper ratio: 1:2 or 3

Play Camp.

For the past nine years Project HOPE camps have given children the opportunity to deal with stress, take charge of thoughts and attention level, and increase self-esteem, coping and leadership skills. Campers ride horses and engage in team building exercises all while having loads of fun such as trail riding, arts & crafts and horseback relay races. No riding experience is required. Open to all children. Camps include lunch, snacks and helmet use.

Dates: May 15-17, 9am-4pm Ages: 0-2 Cost: $42

Dates: May 15-17, 9am-4pm Ages: 3-5 Cost: $42

Nursery.

Camp Fire

Camp Glen 6580 S. Township Road 131, Tiffin 419-422-5415 officemanager@campfirenwohio.com CampFireNWOhio.com

Camp WO-He-LO 2017. Camp Fire’s Adven-

ture Camp will be a four day fun-filled camp loaded with excitement, learning, and new experiences held at the Camp Fire Office (305 West Hardin St., Findlay). Staff will be offering four separate themed weeks throughout the summer, so pick your favorite theme or come to all four! Themed sessions will focus on fitness, arts & crafts, science experiments and team building while also building lasting friendships and meeting community civil servants. Each camper is responsible for bringing a sack lunch. Snacks will be provided. Transportation is provide to and from activities throughout the week. Financial Scholarships are available. Dates: Session One: Sports Week: June 12-16, 9am-4pm; Session Two: Super Hero Week: June 19-23, 9am-4pm; Session Three: All About Animals: July 24-27, 9am-4pm, Session Four: Fun and Fitness: July 31August 3, 9am-4pm; Session Five: DIY Week: August 7-10, 9am-4pm Ages: Grades K-8 Cost: $115 (per child, per session)

Camp Fire Day Camp 2017. Camp Fire’s Day Camp is a week-long adventure at Camp Glen with one optional overnight on Thursday night. Day campers will get the full camp experience enjoying everything Camp Glen has to offer. Each session will focus on teaching youth outdoor living, adventure and social skills in a traditional camp setting. Each camper is responsible for bringing a sack lunch. A meal plan is available for an additional $20. Financial Scholarships are available. Transportation is provided to and from Camp Glen each day from the Camp Fire Office, but campers may be transported by a parent or guardian as well. Dates: Session One: June 26-30, 8am-5pm; Session Two: July 10-14, 8am-5pm; Session Three: July 17-21, 8am-5pm Ages: Grades 1-6 Cost: $145 (per child, per session)

2017 Resident Camp. Resident camp is an

overnight camp in which the youth stay for multiple nights and are supervised 24 hours a day by Camp Glen staff. Camp Fire of Northwest Ohio offers resident camp opportunities at our camp facility, Camp Glen, which has been serving Hancock and Seneca County youth since 1959.

The Camp Fire day camp program

offers a focus area on staff led exploration of the outdoors and experiential education. Our program offers a progression model of lessons with the campers having daily choice activities. Campers will also be split into separate age levels or activity groups to facilitate an appropriate progression of skills and learning. Dates: July 6-8, Drop-Off: 12pm, Pick-Up: 4pm Ages: Youth entering grades 3rd-6th Cost: $195

Flashover Indoor Sports 11600 Township Highway 99, Findlay 419-420-1575 info@flashoverindoor.com flashoverindoor.com

Advanced Soccer Camp. 3 day skills.

Coached by Coach Craig Mitchell of UF Men’s Soccer Team. Bring a packed lunch or buy one at Flashover for $5.50/day. Dates: June 5-7, 9am-3pm or August 7-9, 9am-3pm Ages: 5-10 Cost: $149/player & $129 for additional siblings or $60/Day

Advanced Soccer Camp. 2 day advanced

skills. Coached by Coach Craig Mitchell of UF Men’s Soccer Team. Bring a packed lunch or buy one at Flashover for $5.50/day. Dates: June 8-9, 9am-3pm or August 10-11 Ages: 10+ Cost: $119/player & $99 for additional siblings or $70/Day

Games & More Fun Camp. Campers ages 5 yrs+ will learn to play, officiate and makeup all type of games; Yard Games, Field Games, Video Games, Board, Card Games & More. Bring a packed lunch or buy one at Flashover for $5.50/day. Dates: June 12-16, 9am-3pm or July 31August 4, 9am-3pm Ages: 5+ Cost: $125/week & $99 for additional siblings or $50/Day Football Skills Camp. 3 day skills with Instructor Dylan Blunk - UF’s Football Wide Receiver. Bring a packed lunch or buy one at Flashover for $5.50/day. Dates: June 26-28, 9am-3pm Ages: 5-10 Cost: $149/player & $129 for additional siblings or $60/Day Football Skills Camp. 2 day advanced

skills with Instructor Dylan Blunk - UF’s Football Wide Receiver. Bring a packed lunch or buy one at Flashover for $5.50/day. Dates: June 29-30, 9am-3pm Ages: 10+ Cost: $119/player & $99 for additional siblings or $70/Day

Glow In the Dark & Fun Camp. Campers 5 yrs+ will play in the Dark with all type of Yard Games, Field Games, Video Games. As well as, enjoy a lunch time movie & more. Bring a packed lunch or buy one at Flashover for $5.50/day. Dates: July 17-21, 9am-3pm Ages: 5+ Cost: $125/week & $99 for additional siblings or $50/Day

Funtastic Camp. Campers 5yrs + will have all

sorts of fun with bounce, field sports & games, crafts & more. ($5/child additional cost for supplies not included in camp fee). Bring a packed lunch or buy one at Flashover for $5.50/day. Dates: August 14-18, 9am-1pm Ages: 5+ Cost: $125/week & $99 for additional siblings or $50/Day

CONT’D ON P10

www.findlayfamily.com • May 2017 •

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION CONT’D FROM P.9

FHS Art Camp

Trinity Baptist Church

Findlay High School Fine Arts Wing 1200 Broad Ave., Findlay jasonwagner@fcs.org fhsartcamp.com

7839 County Road 236, Findlay 419-422-8462 VBSFindlay.com

Family Fun Day.

Camp WO-He-LO 2017:

online or by phone

June 12th-June 15th

419-422-5415

June 19th-June 22rd July 24th-July 27th

Dates: July 9, 4-6pm Ages: Open to the whole family Cost: Free

Dates: June 12-16; June 19-23 Ages: Age ranges vary by date - grades PK-12 Cost: $100-$180

Vacation Bible School. Climb into a snazzy submarine and plunge into the deep---where you’ll learn that Christ is our loving Redeemer! Join Dr. Vanguard and his crew to follow Jesus’ life story from Bethlehem to Calvary, and see how he brings us joy, happiness, peace, hope, and love. I know that my remeeder liveth! Job 19:25 (KJV). Register online. Transportation available upon request. Dates: July 10-12, 6-8pm Ages: Age 4-6th Grade Cost: Free

The mission of the FHS Art Camp is to provide hands-on opportunities for campers to develop their creative potential through experiences in the visual arts. The camp promotes and encourages creative problem solving, individual expression, and exploration of ideas thereby enriching the quality of life within our community. Local art educators and artists, will work with FHS student assistants, to aid your camper in the exploration of their own creativity. Snacks and camp shirt provided.

Music Camps

July 31st-August 3rd August 7th-August 10th Monday-Thursday, 9am-4pm Youth Grades K-8th

300 E. Lincoln St., Findlay Jerry McNamee, Sports & Camp Director 419-422-4424 jmcnamee@findlayymca.com findlayymca.com

Heartstring Melodies, LLC 219 Liberty Street, Findlay 567-429-1909 heartstringmelodies.com

305 W Hardin Street Findlay, OH,45840

Camp Glen 2017:

Residential Camp July 6th - 8th Drop off at noon

Session One: June 26th–June 30th

Session Two:

Camps through the Findlay Family YMCA

are music therapy groups for campers to work on making live music, exploring instruments, learning dances, singing along to songs, and participating in a music game or craft all while focusing on social skills and being creative with peers. Instrument groups include guitar, piano, percussion/drums, and singing/ songwriting and are designed for campers interested in learning some instrument basics. All camps are open to individuals of all abilities! For more information, please visit our website. Dates: May 30-August 9 Ages: PK-12 Cost: Varies per camp

Rooted in caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, and faith, our highly-trained staff helps campers realize that the Y is a place to try new things, build new skills and make new friends.

Day Camps at the YMCA

Ages: 5-8 Session Dates: May 30-Aug.11 Cost: $80-$120

July 10th–Jul 14th

Session Three: July 17th–July 21st

Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Optional Overnight Transportation provided Daily Youth Grades K-8th 6580 S. Township Rd 131 Tiffin, OH, 44883

;gk_d[ 7ii_ij[Z J^[hWf_[i '$ IWj ! Ikd" @kd[ )#*" '(#+fc This camp is designed for youth in Junior High and High School

($ IWj ! Ikd" @kd[ '-#'." '(#+fc This camp is for children ages 5 to 11

)$ IWj ! Ikd" @kbo '+#'," '(#+fc This camp is for children ages 5 to 11

2017 Day Camps

CampFireNWOhio.com 10

• May 2017 • www.findlayfamily.com

All camps take place at Project H.O.P.E. Stables in Findlay, 6645 T.R. 215 Camp includes lunch, snacks, and helmet use. FOR ALL HORSE LOVERS!

Space is very limited

For more information and to register, please contact:

419.469.0415 | projecthope.st@gmail.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Sports & Specialty Camps at the YMCA: Whiz Kids, Theatre, Active Girls,

Leader in Training Camp: The Leader-In-

Basketball, LEGO Camp, Tennis, Volleyball, Team Sports, Extreme Sports, Camp Prodigy-Physics, Survivor Camp, Myth Busters, Nerf Team Building, Soccer, All Star Sports, Plugged In, Good Eats, Ages: 5-12 Session Dates: May 30-Aug. 11 Cost: $20-$130

YMCA Day Camp at Riverside Park:

Ultimate Warrior, Super Slimy, Olympics, Pirates, Color War, Splish Splash, Where the Wild Things Are, Sports Galore, Under the Sea, Spanning the Globe, Camp Rewind. Ages: 1st to 5th grade Session Dates: May 30-Aug. 11 Cost: $44-$100

Preschool Camps at the YMCA: The Doc is

In!, Happy Campers!, Let the Game Begins!, Little Chef, Build It!, Top Secret!, Let’s Get Messy, Lost Boys and Girls of Neverland, Hawaiian Luau, Summer Fun Daze!, Start Your Engines, Power Rangers, Out of the World, Princess Parade. Ages: Preschool Age Session Dates: June 7-July 18 Cost: $10-$35

KinderCamp: Pure Imagination, Camp YMCA. Ages: 3-6 Session Dates: July 31-Aug. 11 Cost: $35-$55

Training (LIT) program allows older campers to build leadership skills and assume some counselor responsibilities while still participating in their favorite activities. Through a combination of workshops, supervised opportunities with younger campers, program planning and general camp activities, participants will be exposed to the basic elements of youth development through the lens of a camp counselor. Leadership skills and teamwork are emphasized, along with development of the YMCA character values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Ages: Entering Grades 7-9 Session Dates: May 30-Aug. 11 Cost: $100-$150

Before and After Camp: Before and after

care gives parents the option of extra care at the YMCA. This is an informal time when children are supervised while they play a variety of self directed games and activities. The fee includes both before and after care, regardless of which options are used or how many days are used. Session Dates: May 30-Aug. 11 Cost: $30-$50

Cory Rawson Soccer Club 401 W. US 224, Findlay 419-722-2295 henderson-dean@findlay.edu coryrawsonsoccer.wix.com/home Dates: June 3 Ages: U8-U19 (ages 6-18) Cost: $75 per team The Cory Rawson Soccer Club offers a 3 vs 3 soccer tournament for ages U8-U19.

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Spotlight Summer Camp

Soccer Camp w/ UF Assistant Men’s Coach Craig Mitchell June 5-8 & August 7-10, 2017

11600 Co. Rd. 99, Findlay s 419-420-1575 s www.FlashoverIndoor.com www.findlayfamily.com • May 2017 •

2016

VOTE NOW!

Doctor’s Orders Pediatric practice Emergency care

Boutique Beauty

Place to give birth

Kids’ clothing store

OB/GYN

Time to Party

Maternity clothing store

Midwife

Place for furnishing the nursery

Doula

Place for a birthday bash

Baby boutique shop

Family doctor

Place to buy a birthday cake

Local toy store

ENT doctor

Family-friendly entertainer

Mom-owned business

Optometrist / Ophthalmologist

Place to buy birthday decorations

Place to buy sports equipment

Chiropractor

Family photographer

Favorite Places and Spaces Place to read

Local Instagram account

Museum Fair or festival Place for a picnic Place to volunteer Animal encounters Tween activity Garden and nature center

Dentist Orthodontist

Local parent blogger Local parent Facebook group

Place for a birthday bash

Allergist

The Digital Age

Family activity Place to worship

Birthing classes

Veterinarian

Get Active

Watch Me Soar

Place to go ice skating

Preschool

Place to go roller skating

Tutoring center

Place to buy sports equipment

Teacher and their school

Park or playground

Elementary school

Indoor playspace

Middle school

Waterpark

Charter school

Family-friendly gym

Private/parochial school

Bowling alley

Biking trail

After-school program

Local toy store

Martial arts program

Special needs services

Garden and nature center

Swim lessons

Daycare

Baby swim lessons

Babysitting/Nannying service

Delicious Eats

Sports camp

Enrichment Activities

Cupcakes/Bakery/Sweet shop Family-friendly restaurant

All About Us

Acting and Theatre classes

Ice cream shop

Dance class

Local pizza place Place where kids eat free

Rules: 1. You may only vote once. 2. No answer should be repeated more than three times. 3. A minimum of 20 questions must be answered for your ballot to be eligible. 4. Your name and email address must be included. 5. No ballot stuffing! No photocopies! (We will discard any ballots that we suspect are fraudulently submitted.) Deadline: Friday, May 26, 2017, 5 p.m.

Summer day camp

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Favorite thing about Findlay Area Family

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• May 2017 • www.findlayfamily.com

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RESERVE SPACE NOW! 419.244.9859 or email sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com Space reservation deadline June 15th Winners announced in the July issue of Findlay Family

Mother’s Day Reflections

Danny, Halley, Henry and Jack Sullivan

By Betsey Watson

Mother’s Day, May 14 this year, became an official U.S. holiday in 1914 with devoted daughter Anna Jarvis credited as The Mother of Mother’s Day.

Four local moms shared with us what makes their Mother’s Day special.

Mark, Ruby Mae, Nicole and Sylvia Cramer

Halley Sullivan Henry, 4, Jack, 3

Pat Hottenstein with her grandchildren, Allison and Nick Kuhlman

Patricia Hottenstein

Children: Amy Kuhlman, Scott Hottenstein Grandchildren: Allison Kuhlman,19 (deceased), Nick Kuhlman, 18

As time goes by, the children grow up and their interests change but you always know that those kids love you, and I always hang on to this one little charm I wear around my neck that says “Grandma, because of you, I have memories to last a lifetime” and I wear it constantly. I have done some really crazy things with them and my grandkids will just laugh and laugh. My goal is to do things so that they will always remember their grandma in a laughing and positive way. You can be as generous as you want and give them things, but it’s the memories that last a lifetime. And I always hold on to that. I always make sure my children and grandchildren know that they are loved unconditionally and I always try to be positive and non-judgmental. I love them with all my heart. They’re my life.

We don’t have Mother’s Day traditions yet. But last year, my husband, Danny made me garden stepping stones with Henry’s foot going right and one with Jack’s foot going left. If we continue it, then as they grow, it’ll be one long path. I think this is the first year my boys will really understand that it’s a day for mom. Henry is always very excited to buy me flowers so Danny is going to plant flowers from seed with them that they can pick for me. What I’ve learned the most about motherhood is grace upon grace upon grace. I’m learning to give myself the patience that I try to give my kids. I love them so much and would bend over backwards to affirm them even when they make a mistake. That’s how God feels about us and I’m learning to give myself that grace, too. What I want for my kids is what God wants for me, and when I think about it that way, it’s easier and better. Being a Mom is the hardest job that there is. It’s very rewarding. And when you think about the longevity of it, it’s very humbling.

Nicole Cramer Ruby Mae, 5, Sylvia, 1

Where I grew up in Bloomdale, we always had chicken dinners that the fire department put on for Mother’s Day. My dad was in the fire department and so every Mother’s Day we were there as a family and I always knew everybody. We still do it today. I go with the girls and meet my parents and it’s a continuing tradition. My favorite part of being a mom is all the snuggling and watching their personalities develop. Each new stage is fun – there are always challenges but there’s so much fun involved in watching them grow. It’s important for me to be that presence so they know they can always come to me and count on me. Even as they change and get bigger, and they aren’t glued right to my side like they are now, I want them to know that no matter what I’m always there. And I try to find time every day to make that connection with them and to check in. I think that’s really important to be there in whatever way they need at that stage in life.

Tracy McMath

Cole, 25, Beckett, 22, Arden, 21, Duncan, 17 For Mother’s Day, we usually have a meal together - typically planned and prepared by my husband, Jeff and the kids. I always enjoyed whatever I wanted to do on that day. As the kids got older, though, there was often a soccer game or various activities but we’d still celebrate. I remember Mother’s Day 8-10 years ago, when all the kids were home. It was a beautiful spring day and both grandmothers were present. We had a picnic outside in our backyard and the kids were playing. It was very, very special. I just love watching my kids develop into the people that God intends them to be. I miss them being around but I love watching them experiment and see what direction they’re going. I love finding out what they’re really good at. And I hope that my kids will remember me as their advocate, their biggest cheerleader. As they get older, it grows into friendship. But early on it’s not that way, and I hope that behind it all they know I was there, supporting and encouraging them.

www.findlayfamily.com • May 2017 •

Playground Roundup Free Outdoor Fun on Every Side of Town! By Jessica Kempf

Spring is here and it is finally time to get those kiddos outside! Thanks to a variety of playgrounds around town, there’s a way for every child to stay active. Our guide provides you with all you need to know to navigate Findlay’s best outdoor play areas for kids.

Riverbend Recreation Area

Miracle Playground

16618 Township Road 208, Findlay

3430 North Main Street, Findlay

Features: There are three different playgrounds at Riverbend so take some time to explore and choose the one that’s right for your family. The Meadows features Tree House Adventure Playground which has a variety of slides and ways to climb up into treehouse-like landings (typically a hit with the big kids). Oxbow is the perfect playground for toddlers and preschoolers with baby swings and smaller climbing equipment. Big Oaks has a combination of equipment that will appeal to both big and little kids,

making it a great choice when you have multiple kids with a wide age range. Riverbend is also an ideal place to hike, play disc golf, fish or let furry friends run at the dog park.

Features: This new playground is a must-see! Miracle Park opened last fall with a baseball field and playground for children of all abilities to enjoy, and it is impressive. With sensory-stimulating activities, a variety of slides, handicapaccessible swings and more, there are plenty of unique ways for little ones to play. The playground is covered with a rubberized surface for safe landings and

Tips: This playground can be a little tricky to find, so follow the signs to Miracle Park behind the Marathon Diamonds. This is not the same playground as the one adjacent to The Cube parking lot. Miracle Park can also be accessed from County Road 99 near Interstate 75.

Tips: Paved paths wind through the park and connect playgrounds, so bring your bikes, scooters and helmets and let the kids ride to their heart’s content.

Litzenberg Memorial Woods 6100 U.S. Route 224, Findlay Features: The playground at Litzenberg is fairly small but its setting is large and magnificent. This park is truly a great asset on the west side of town. In addition to slides and climbing structures, families can explore nature trails, take a walk through the 1800’s period garden or visit the 1847 McKinnis homestead during public programs. Make time to explore the area, incorporate a history lesson and take in the beautiful sights and sounds of nature. Tips: Restrooms and a drinking fountain are attached to the large red Activity Barn. Hiking trails are great for family activities and trails are color-coded with markers throughout to guide you. Download a map of Litzenberg Memorial Woods with information about each trail at hancockparks.com

awnings provide some shade during sunny days. A little bit “off the beaten path” but well worth exploring!

• May 2017 • www.findlayfamily.com

Riverside Park 231 McManness Avenue, Findlay Features: Hancock County’s oldest park has a beautiful location overlooking the Blanchard River. With plenty of large shade trees and open areas to run, Riverside is an ideal place to spend a lazy summer day. The main playground is nestled next to the river and features equipment for both younger and older kids including double teeter-totters (2 kids on each side), twisty slides and a tire swing. Head across McManness Avenue for a playground with smaller equipment, an adorable wooden playhouse and a rubberized play surface. Tips: Zonta Landing Boat Rentals is open from 1-7pm on weekends beginning Memorial Day and continuing through Labor Day. Canoes, kayaks and pedal boats can be rented for $5 per half hour. Plan accordingly and add some fun water activities to your park day! Contact Hancock Parks District for more information, hancockparks.com

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Findlay Digital Academy Reviews

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Maternity & Baby

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healthy kids Buckle Up!

Car seat safety tips to keep your little ones safe

Call to advertise: 419.244.9871

By Halley Sullivan

The CDC estimates that 59% of car seats are misused in a way that reduces their effectiveness. That means that the car seats we carefully research, install, and use every day may not be keeping our children safe. Dawn Wallen is a nationally certified Child Passenger Safety technician who works for the Findlay City Health Department. Wallen shares her safety tips for proper car seat installation and usage.

Know thy car seat

The safest car seat is a properly installed car seat. Carefully read the manual for your particular model and consider scheduling an appointment to have your car seat inspected by the Hancock County Health Department. This service is free, although donations are accepted, and by appointment only.

Location, Location, Location

The safest location for a car seat in a vehicle is the center seat of the rear. Car seats should only be installed in the backseat of a vehicle.

Make sure it’s tight!

Your car seat should not move more than one inch side to side or forward. To properly tighten your car seat, place your knee in the seat, putting all of your weight into the seat while tightening the seatbelt or latch system pulls until the car seat no longer moves more than an inch. The same goes for the harness straps on your child. Straps should be snug, not allowing for any material to be pinched between fingers at the child’s shoulder. “If it didn’t come with the car seat, don’t use it.” Wallen cautions parents and caregivers from using toys or head supports that did not come from the manufacturer with their car seat. “In a crash, those toys can injure an infant by coming loose and hitting the child. Head supports can allow the infant’s head to fall too far forward potentially cutting off the baby’s airway.” If you think your infant needs head support in the car seat Wallen recommends using two rolled receiving blankets on either side of the baby’s head to help support.

Know the law •

Infants should be in a rear facing car seat until they are age 1 and 20lbs (although the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends age 2.)

•

Children must remain in a 5-point harnessed convertible car seat until they are 4 years old and 40lbs.

•

A child must remain in a booster seat until he or she is 8 years old or 4 feet 9 inches.

Heat stroke

Never, ever, leave a child alone in a car. In a hot car, an infant’s body temperature can rise 3-4x faster than an adult’s. “If you forget your keys or just need to run into the house to grab something, always remove your child from the car. We are human and can be easily distracted or unaware of how quickly a car can heat up.” Wallen advises putting your cell phone or purse in the backseat of your vehicle so you will have to open your rear door and look at the car seat to retrieve it, lessening the chance of forgetting a child in a car.

• May 2017 • www.findlayfamily.com

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XT Fitness: Functional Fitness in an Encouraging ClassByEnvironment Jessica Kempf A Playground for Adults

“Gym” may not be the word that comes to mind when describing XT Fitness. With no treadmills or weight machines in sight, XT looks more like an indoor playground for adults than a traditional gym. XT Fitness is owned by Jim Steffen, America’s Fun Fitness Coach, and offers 30 classes a week. Since I know several people who rave about the classes (including my own husband) I had to go see what the fuss was all about. Jim opened XT Fitness to provide classbased instruction focused on functional movements, or movements you use in everyday life. Jim, with his fellow instructors, coaches members through a fullbody workout that is different each time you come.

Camaraderie and Encouragement

The morning class I attended began with a brief warm-up. There were four stations around the room with a list of exercises at each one. We spent nine minutes at each station completing the exercises while upbeat music videos played on a large screen. Jim walked around encouraging and coaching, calling each person by name. “What I’ve learned is that by having classes with structure people don’t drop out as much. Here you get more attention. A workout is designed for you… and it works!” explains Jim.

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Station one consisted of burpees followed by kettlebell swings. Other stations included squats, jumps, pull-ups and push-ups. Time went quickly as I challenged myself to complete the exercises before the nine-minute timer went off. It helped to have some M.C. Hammer music playing in the background. U Can’t Touch This. I was in the zone. The 36-minute workout was not complicated, but it was tough and my legs were shaking as I finished up with lunges at the last station. Jim encourages people who may be intimidated to give it a try, explaining “I tell people, if you can step up on a small box and do a squat, you can work out at XT fitness.” XT Fitness is located at 2725 North Main Street in Findlay. Class schedules and more information can be found at www.jimsteffenfitness.com

Like many of you, I am a busy parent who doesn’t always feel like making time for a workout. However, there are a lot of great businesses around town just waiting to be discovered that make working out FUN and enjoyable. Through this column we will be giving our readers a glimpse into different group fitness classes around town so that you can be inspired to try something new. Let’s dust off those sneakers and get moving! - Jessica

Blended Learning Online Instruction Face-to-Face Coaching

LEARN MORE! 419-429-8938 1100 Broad Ave • Findlay, Ohio • flc.fcs.org www.findlayfamily.com • May 2017 •

CONNECTIONS

Do y our reoau know som meet o ders might eone of cult r have an e like to we canural diversitxyample from? share and that Em le findlayfaail at editora2rn @ mily.co m.

Meijer, the Kuretanis said, offers the best selection of Japanese vegetables, and they pick up fresh meat from Brinkman’s Country Corner or Miller’s Meats. Kanae likes to shop at Kohl’s. When dining out, they love Tony’s Restaurant & Pub, especially the barbeque ribs.

From left to right, back row: Audhuh Alamry; daughter Sarah, 2; K Alghmadi, father-in-law of Alamry; son Bader, 15. Front: Daughter, Danah, 13; son Omar, 5; daughter Layan, 8; wife Salwa, and daughter Yara, 3 months.

Finding their Way

Japanese family moved to Findlay in January, learning the lay of the land By Sarah Mayle

Where are you from? What brought you to Findlay? New to Findlay, the Kuretani family have been residents since January. Toshikazu, 44, and his wife, Kanae, 35, moved from Kasugai, Japan for his management role with American Fine Sinter, an automotive supplier in Tiffin. This is the Kuretanis second stay in the U.S. They lived in Tiffin from 2008 to 2012, and three of their children were born here— Hikari, 7, who is now a 1st-grader at Whittier Elementary; Yoshi, 5, a kindergarten student at Whittier; and Sarah, 4, who attends preschool. Their youngest daughter, Saki, 17 mos., was born in Japan. Some differences between Findlay and home: Kasugai, Japan is a city of about 350,000 people compared to Findlay’s 41,000. Life in Kasugai was more congested and faster paced, and Mrs. Kuretani noted she does not miss frequent traffic jams. Kasugai is nestled in the foothills of mountains and, as we know, Findlay... is not. 18

“I had been here before, but the first time I brought Kanae she wasn’t aware of the countryside,” Mr. Kuretani said, chuckling. “I tried to tell her it was like the movie ‘Field of Dreams,’ but she wasn’t familiar with it. She said she almost felt like she was kidnapped and in the middle of nowhere with the flat land and all of the corn.”

While they enjoy Western food from time to time, the Kuretanis, shook their heads, smiled and laughed when I asked if they ever cook a burger on the grill. They prepare Japanese food at home and make a trip every few months to Tensuke Market in Columbus for specific supplies they can’t find here.

Especially for the kids, the Kuretanis appreciate the spacious lawns and comparatively larger homes available in Findlay. “The kids are enjoying seeing squirrels and nature,” Mr. Kuretani said.

Favorite Findlay spots When asked about their favorite places in Findlay, Mr. Kuretani was quick to mention the Flag City BalloonFest, which takes place at Emory Adams Park each year in August. “It is amazing for a date,” Mr. Kuretani said. “You can have a drink outside and see the balloons glow when it’s dark. It is really a sight to see.”

Americans’ shopping style differs from what the Kuretanis are accustomed to in Japan. Supermarkets here are large, as are the carts, and when the Kuretanis shop they usually carry a basket. “People here have large refrigerators and store food for a long time,” Mr. Kuretani explained. “In Japan, we buy the amount we need for that day’s dinner, fresh vegetables or fish. We eat more fish than you do here. It tastes better fresh.”

With the kids in tow, the family takes pleasure in the many parks in Findlay, especially Emory Adams, Riverside Park and Riverbend Recreation Area. They also get a kick out of driving near the University of Findlay Equestrian Center on County Road 201 to look for deer.

• May 2017 • www.findlayfamily.com

taught to finish all of the food on their plate to develop appreciation for what they have - but portion sizes are much smaller than what is typical in the U.S.

Lasting Impressions Unique to many who come to Findlay from other countries, the Kuretanis are able to send Continuing cultural traditheir kids to a Japanese school in tions from home Toledo on Saturdays. “The chilThe Kuretanis showed me dren need to keep up with the their home display for Hinamat- Japanese education and mainsuri, or Girls Day, which took tain their cultural background,” place on March 3, in Japan. Dur- Mr. Kuretani said. Managers of ing Girls Day, parents celebrate Japanese businesses are often daughters with a seven-tiered sent to another country for three display of intricately painted and to five years then return home clothed dolls, flowers, and lamps for about that long before pos(see display in photos), which is sibly being transferred again. passed down from generation to The Kuretanis don’t plan to generation. The parents pray for stay permanently in the U.S., so their daughter to have a bright it’s important the kids can step future and celebrate with deliback into a Japanese education. cious treats. Kanae attends a class called International Friends in Christ Mr. Kuretani said they will at Concordia Lutheran Church also celebrate their son on Children’s Day, which used to be that is helpful to continue learnonly Boys Day, on May 5. Instead ing English, and they said their of dolls, parents display samurai neighbors and acquaintances at school have been friendly. warriors to celebrate the health and growth of boys and girls. Despite only living in Findlay Streamers that look like carp or for a few months, the family koi fish are flown to bring good is adjusting nicely and looks fortune. forward to continued cultural A cultural tradition you exploration. enjoy here “Of course the kids love Halloween,” Mr. Kuretani said, smiling. The Kuretanis also enjoy Christmas as the family is Christian. In Japan, the most prominent religions are Shinto and Buddhism. Parenting tips The Kuretanis believe it is important that their kids help around the house. “When my wife cooks, we always call the kids to come and get their plate,” Mr. Kuretani explained. “Then they take it back to the kitchen when they are finished to clean up. This makes them more independent.” The kids are also

A New Chapter for LB Schools

Liberty Benton Schools welcomes new superintendent Mark Kowalski by Halley Sullivan

on his Masters in Educational Administration at Ashland University. Since then he has diligently worked through the ranks. He is currently the Director of Operations for Harrison Hills City Schools.

Mark Kowalski, new Liberty Benton Schools Superintendent. In his 27 years as an educator, Mark Kowalski has held just about every position in a school setting. He’s been a teacher, an assistant principal, a principal at the elementary, middle and high school levels, a coach, an athletic director and the Director of Operations. And this fall he will become the new Superintendent for Liberty Benton Schools. “I’ve always believed that the school should be the center of the community because that’s where we grow our future leaders. Liberty Benton has a solid foundation and strong traditions in Hancock County. I’m looking forward to collaborating with the staff, parents, and students about how we can continue to improve upon the tradition of excellence LB already has in place.” “I’ve always believed that the school should be the center of the community because that’s where we grow our future leaders.”

Road to Superintendent

Kowalski graduated from Duquesne University in 1990 with a degree in social studies education. He taught social studies for several years before an administrator suggested that he pursue educational leadership. Soon after he began working

Kowalski says one of his proudest accomplishments has been opening a school for at-risk students. “As an assistant principal I was in charge of discipline and attendance. I saw kids who were falling through the cracks and wanted to find a way to help these kids catch up and earn a diploma.” Kowalski worked to open an alternative school called Harrison Central Opportunity School which held classes in the evenings, in a smaller setting, where non-traditional students were able to connect and get more face time with teachers. There they would ultimately earn their diplomas and leave high school poised for success.

Connecting with Students

Although he is currently the Director of Operations for Harrison Hills School District, Kowalski continues to interact with students on a regular basis as a varsity boys’ basketball coach. He enjoys coaching because of the “character and skills participating in a team sport instills in students.” Connecting with students is important to Mr. Kowalski, who regularly attends local sporting events and co-curricular activities so that students can put a face to his name in a meaningful way. Kowalski says he is looking forward to being in the Liberty Benton schools interacting with students, teachers, and staff during the day in addition to attending evening events and athletics so as to build a relationship with the LB community. Kowalski has been married to his wife Lisa for 25 years. Lisa is an area vice president in charge of workplace banking for PNC bank. They have one son, Austin, who is a sophomore at Kent State. Kowalski, a proud father, shares that Austin earned 12 varsity letters while in high school and was 3rd in his graduating class. In his free time, Kowalski enjoys golf, cheering on the Ohio State Buckeyes, caring for his yard and travelling. In August, Mr. Kowalski will begin serving as superintendent of Liberty Benton Schools.

And The Award Goes To… ‘Tried Her Best’ Mom By Rose Roccisano Barto

I’ve always been uncomfortable being the center of attention on Mother’s Day. I don’t feel I’ve done much to deserve, well, anything. When that day comes around, I’m not the mom who basks in the glow of my great job. In fact, I can easily list my failures as a mother without much prompting. I lose my temper sometimes, and often it’s over something stupid. I have never spanked my children – I truly don’t believe in doing that, ever – but sometimes my voice can be just as harsh. So I have gotten better at taking a deep breath, and realizing most of it is not that important. I hover too much. You might be a helicopter mom, but I’m more like Air Force One. When a project comes home from school, I rally better than any wartime general. Did someone push you on the playground? Step aside. Letting them fight the small battles, however, prepares them for the wars ahead. So I have gotten better at trusting that my children can (and will) handle most things themselves. I don’t fully trust anyone else, on the other hand. Many of my lectures start out with “I trust you, but I don’t trust the other person.” As my children grow, I realize that they will make their own decisions on who to befriend and date. So I have gotten better at knowing I’ve given them all the emotional armor I can with which to make those decisions. I have expectations that not everyone meets. I do laundry constantly. One time one child – who shall remain nameless – didn’t put her laundry away for a week. I got irri-

tated, and then I just piled it up on the window seat. The pile was nearly her height by the time it got put away, but it got put away. So I have gotten better at letting the small stuff go. I hear my own words come out of my daughters’ mouths. Our house has few filters, and everyone is allowed to speak their minds. Every now and then I hear them say something like only I can. I like the idea of raising strong, confident women, and I hope I don’t unduly influence their view of the world. So I have gotten better at letting them decide what their opinions are rather than mimicking mine. I have few domestic skills. I would be perfectly happy eating cereal for dinner every night, but I’ve had to learn how to cook food that pleases most of my family. I can do basic alterations but will never be making prom dresses. So I have gotten better at realizing everyone has different skills and strengths, and that there is no shame in paying others to do something you can’t or won’t do. I think my parenting theme is “getting better.” My husband and I often talk about how we each try to do better than our parents did. Not because they did horribly, they did the best they could with the skills and opportunities they had. We have more opportunity, and an easier life, than they did. We’ve gotten past judging how they parented. Instead, we realize they did their best. And now it is our turn. I don’t think I’ll ever be “Mom of the Year.” I won’t even be “Most Improved Mom.” Maybe someday, if I am lucky, I will win “Tried Her Best Mom.”

www.findlayfamily.com • May 2017 •

Joey, 6, digs into her chicken.

Cedar Valley Café

1132 Tiffin Ave. Findlay Hours: Open Daily 11am-9pm Cedarvalleycafe.com “Cedar Valley Café” on Facebook ine in, carryout and catering available. D Dining out with young children can be… interesting. So it was with great trepidation that I accepted an assignment requiring me to dine in public with my offspring. At first glance, Cedar Valley looks fairly average both inside and out. The interior is pretty neutral, but once we were settled into a booth, I noticed the beautiful, intricate lamps hanging above each table. More unique decorations were placed around the restaurant – little items of interest that punctuated the simple interior.

electing our dinners from the wide array S of Mediterranean and American options was hurried along by our children’s hunger, but I recommend taking time to explore the variety offered by Cedar Valley (how did I miss the falafel?!). My husband ordered a traditional lamb gyro and the chicken shawarma sandwich to share. Our very hungry 7-year-old son ordered a burger and fries while our 3-year-old selected macaroni-and-cheese (big surprise!). Our middle daughter, 6, chose sides of chicken and hummous as her meal. I ordered the spinach pie with a side of rice and chose lemon rice soup to start.

A Family Restaurant

Our server brought my soup – a thickened yellow broth with rice. Though unassuming in appearance, the soup packed a flavorful punch! First, a lemony zing followed by peppery spice. My husband

Simply Delicious

Unique decorations and a wide variety of American and Mediterranean cuisine By Betsey Watson

and I both loved it, remarking that it would be amazing anytime, especially in lieu of the traditional chicken noodle soup when sick.

As we each tried the soup, one of the owners, Jihad Shaheen, stopped by our table. He and his brother, Mohamad, and their families had lived in Findlay for decades as longtime Cooper Tire employees before deciding to open a restaurant. Seven years ago, as they neared retirement, the brothers decidec to open the restaurant and Cedar Valley Café was born. When asked how business is now, after seven years, Shaheen smiles, nods and says, “Good. Very good.” And with good reason. The shawarma was delicious. Who knew chicken, pickles, and a garlic sauce wrapped in a pita could be so yummy? My husband, a big fan of gyros, reported that unlike the typical gyro, Cedar Valley’s version wasn’t greasy and had a lighter, homemade flavor. He’s picky so that’s high praise. My (huge portion of) spinach pie had great flavor and could only be made better by a crispy top. In fact, it was so good that my son ate the leftovers for breakfast the next day! The American dishes were typical and pleased my children, but the real winner was the chicken and hummous that my daughter ordered. We all picked bites off her plate.

• May 2017 • www.findlayfamily.com

The Best for Last

The highlight of the meal, however, was the dessert. We ordered the traditional baklava and pavé along with a piece of chocolate cake. First, a disclaimer: I typically disregard all desserts lacking chocolate as a main ingredient. But that night, I almost ignored the huge, chocolatey-delicious cake and instead devoured the baklava and pavé. The baklava had a perfectly crispy top with buttery, nutty-sweet filling. My husband and I had a standoff over the pavé – a trifle-like dessert with layers of biscuit and pudding. It was divine. I think the kids ate some dessert, too, but I was too busy mmmming through another delicious bite to pay much attention.

The Short Course Kid-Friendly: Yes (They even have a drive-thru window for carryout orders!) Noise Level: Average (Our loud bunch was welcomed!) High Chairs and Boosters: Yes Got Milk? Yes (our kind server even spelled c-h-o-c-o-l-a-t-e and saved us a battle!) Kids Menu: Yes ($3.99-$4.99) Food Allergy Concerns: Ask your server about specific dishes and accommodations can be made.

{ May 2017 } All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation and limited size. Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

1 MONDAY Coding Club - Join the Children’s Place Staff as they teach how to code and practice your programing skills. Create a maze for the robotic Sphero to navigate through. 4pm. The Wood County District Public Library, 251 N. Main St., 419-352-5104. wcdpl.org Free

2 TUESDAY Kids Street Beat - This class has kids exercise through dancing and movement to family friendly music. The class is for children ages 4-10 years old. Registration is required. 4:15. $20/non-members, Free/members. Findlay YMCA. 300 E. Lincoln St., 419-422-4424. findlayymca.org Art Squad - Art Squad is a social art club that was created to benefit teens and adults with developmental differences. This session is for ages 15 and up and builds social, life, & job skills. 5:30pm. $10. Awakening Minds Art, 515 S. Main St., 419-302-3892. awakeningmindsart.org Beginner Judo - This Judo class teaches ground pinning, restraining and throwing techniques. These practices build strength, endurance and muscle. Designed for children ages 8-15 years old. 6:30pm. $25/members, $55/non-members, $20/family membership holder. The YMCA, 1400 Manor Hill Rd., 419-422-9922. findlayymca.org Planetarium show: Undiscovered Worlds The Bowling Green State University Planetarium presents an ongoing show titled “Undiscovered Worlds.” This presentation takes audiences to strange new worlds outside of our solar system to explain humanity’s place in the universe. Tuesday May 2 and Friday May 5/8pm. Show runs until May 5. $1 suggested donation. BGSU Planetarium, 1001 E. Wooster St.,Bowling Green. 419-372-2421. bgsu.edu

3 WEDNESDAY Wii Wednesday - Test out the Wood County Library’s new Wii Console. Groups can play multiplayer games or take turns with single player games. 4pm. Wood County Central Library, 251 N. Main St, Bowling Green. 419-352-5104. wcdpl.org Free

4 THURSDAY Creative Ballet - This creative movement class encourages your child to get up and dance. 5pm. $12/members, $28/nonmembers. Findlay YMCA, 300 E. Lincoln St., 419-422-4424. findlayymca.org

5 FRIDAY ArtWalk - The First Federal Bank’s Artwalk gives guests the opportunity to explore downtown Findlay through art, dining and open houses. 5pm. Various locations in downtown Findlay. artspartnership.com Free

Daddy Daughter Dance The 5th Annual Daddy Daughter Dance returns to the Findlay YMCA. This semi formal, themed Under the Sea, gives kids and their dads a chance to walk down the red carpet, get their picture taken, then dance the night away. Guests should wear a semiformal outfit. 7pm. $15/couple members, $20/ couple non-members, $5/an additional daughter. Findlay YMCA, 300 E. Lincoln St., 419-422-4424. findlayymca.org

May 6

Springtime in Ohio Craft Show This craft

May 6

Findlay Air Expo

The Findlay Airport gives the community a look at military aircraft. Get up close with both modern and historical aircraft. The show honors those who have served and currently serve, in the Air Force. Community exhibits and food vendors will be available. Shuttles to and from the air expo are available at The Cube. 9am. Findlay Airport, 1615 Gray St., 419-422-4182. findlayohio.com

May 17

Bowling Green Farmers Market

6 SATURDAY

Celebrate the Bowling Green area with their farmers market every Wednesday from 4pm-7pm. The Stones Throw Tavern and Grill provides live music from 6pm-7pm and each week a different music artist performs. Starting May 17 4pm. S Main St & Clough St, Bowling Green. 419-352-4611. bgfarmersmarket.org

21st Annual Fish Festival The 21st Annual Fish Festival gives kids the opportunity to fish for Trout in a designated area that is stocked with fish from The Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Guests will take home the first five fish. All fishing rules and regulations must be followed. 8am. Riverbend Park, 16618 Township Rd. 208. 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free Kids Class: Mixed Media Flowers This one-day class has students create a floral painting using oil pastels, water colors and acrylic paint. All supplies are included, and the class is designed for students ages 7-12. 10am. $25. The Art Supply Depo, 435 E. Wooster St., 419-352-9501. artsupplydepobg.com Let’s Explore Japan! - The Children’s Museum of Findlay invites Ayane Hida from the University of Findlay to teach about Japanese culture. Topics include Japanese dress, food and language. 11am. Free with admission. Children’s Museum of Findlay, 1800 Tiffin Ave., 567-250-9616. cmfindlay.com

7 SUNDAY Women at Work: Open House The women of the McKinnis House give guests a look into their daily life. 1pm. Litzenberg Memorial Woods, 6100 U.S. Route 224, 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free

8 MONDAY Discovery Story: Down in the Dirt Learn about soil through a story time. Kids can then explore the worm bin and participate in a dirt inspired craft. Seeds will be available for planting. 1pm. Oakwood Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Lane, 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free

10 WEDNESDAY Tales for Tots: Our Colorful World! Bring your kids of different ages for this themed storytime with “Story Nana.” The theme for this session is the colors pink and purple. 10:15am/ages 1-2, 11am/ages 3-5. The Mazza Museum. 201 College St., 419-434-4560. mazzamuseum.org. Free

show spans more than ten buildings, and is full of unique crafts that are perfect for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and graduation. Kids take a pony ride, bounce in the bounce house and meet Buttons the Clown. A wide variety of food vendors will be available at “Restaurant Row.” 10am. $5/adults Free/kids 12 and under. Litzenberg Memorial Woods, 6100 U.S. Route 224. 419-425-7275. visitfindlay.com

Whovian Wednesday - Jump in the Tardis and travel through time with the Findlay-Hancock County Library. This club meeting has Doctor Who crafts, activities, video clips and games. This event is for the grades 4-12. 6pm. Findlay-Hancock County Library, 206 Broadway St., 419-422-1712. findlaylibrary.org Free

12 FRIDAY Relay for Life - The American Cancer Society’s largest fundraiser, Relay for Life, comes to Findlay High School. Participants form a team and raise money along with commemorating survivors and victims by walking the track. You can get involved by being a team captain, team member or a volunteer. 6pm. Price varies. Findlay High School, 1200 Broad Ave., 800-227-2345. relay.acsevents.org

13 SATURDAY Halt Hunger 5K - Harvest Time International Ministries Church hosts a 5k run/walk to benefit the Feed-A-Child program, which provides easy to make meals to children each Friday during school. 8am. $25. Riverside Park, 231 McManness Ave., 419-424-7178. liveunitedhancockcounty.org Archery 101: 9 to 11 Year Olds The Metropark will have their archery instructors present to help you learn the basics of archery and precision. Once you learned the basics the instructors will provide some archery games. 8:30am. $10. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Lane, 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Pancake Breakfast - This all you can eat breakfast supports families that are less fortunate. The meal features pancakes, sausage, coffee and juice. 8am. $6/adults, $4/children. St. Marks United Methodist Church, 800 S. Main St., 419-422-4236. hcchfindlay.org/events/pancake-breakfast-3

Run for Eternity: In Color 5K Run/Walk & 1/2 mile Kids Color Splash - This 5K run/walk includes four color and activity stations throughout the course. The proceeds benefit Christ’s Church Mission Week. 9am. $10-$25. Carter Park, 401 Campbell Hill Rd., Bowling Green. 419-575-9355. christschurchinbowlinggreen.com Princess for A Day Event This day gives girls in the area a chance to be pampered like the princesses they are for a day. The day includes a photo shoot, dinner buffet, dancing and getting their nails done. Girls will receive a princess outfit to keep. This event is meant for girls ages 18 and younger. 3pm. $35/one princess, $65/two princesses, $90/three princesses and $100/four princesses. Bowling Green State University, 1001 E. Wooster St., Bowling Green. 419-354-5437. kidscounttoo.com Westwater Arts: Our National Parks, music by the Toledo Symphony Orchestra - The Toledo Symphony Orchestra commemorates the centennial for the National Park System with this unique concert experience. Large video screens play a choreographed presentation that syncs to the music being played for an experience the symphony likes to call “symphonic photochoreography.” 8pm. $26-$66. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd., 419-246-8000. toledosymphony.com

14 SUNDAY Mother’s Day Brunch & Celebration Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Toledo Zoo with a brunch. Animal demonstrations are presented throughout the day. The menu includes scrambled eggs, potatoes, pancakes, sausage, soup, carved turkey, roast beef and more. Reservations are necessary. Seatings are at 9am and 11:30am. $35/adult non-member, $30/child non-member, $30/adult member, $25/child member. The Toledo Zoo and Aquarium, 2 Hippo Way, 419-385-5721. toledozoo.org Cont’d on p22

www.findlayfamily.com • May 2017 •

Cont’d from p21 Summer Blooms of Ohio: Open House - Explore the now blooming wildflowers at Oakwoods Nature Preserve. An instructor will teach about these flowers and guide guests on a hike. The hike begins at 2pm. 1pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Lane, 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free Legopalooza - Does your family love to play with Legos? The Wood County District Library invites you to a day of play. Library staff will share their Lego collections, stories and creative ideas. 2pm. Wood County District Public Library, 251 N. Main St., 419-352-5104. wcdpl.org Free

15 MONDAY Mornings with Mommy - Moms can enjoy a day with their child without having to worry about planning activities. Trinity Lutheran Church provides age appropriate games for children. Moms are invited to socialize with other mothers or join the activity with their kids. 9:30am. $5. Trinity Lutheran Church. 301 N. Main St. 419-326-4685. tlcjenera.org

AUGUST 5, 8:30 PM WOOD COUNTY FAIR To buy tickets: www.woodcounty-fair.com OR CALL (419) 352-0441

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Wee Ones: Things with Wings Kids ages three and under can learn about creatures with wings. Search for animals with wings at the Oakwoods Nature Preserve. There will be a story and craft for kids. 10am and 1pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakswoods Lane, 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free

16 TUESDAY Viewing Mercury - Mercury will reach the highest point above the horizon in the morning sky on May 16. This makes the planet easily seen in the low Eastern sky. Oakwoods Nature Preserve offers a view of this event through the planetarium. 6pm. Free but register by 4:30pm on May 15. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Lane, 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free Storks Movie - The Fostoria Library invites you to relax and watch the animated film “Storks.” 5:45pm. Fostoria Library, 205 Perry St., Fostoria. 419-435-2813. fostoria.lib.oh.us Free

17 WEDNESDAY Impact Series: Monarch Butterflies The Monarch Butterfly population has dwindled to an unprecedented low. Learn about these butterflies’ lifestyle and what you can do to help these creatures’ problem. 6pm. Free but registered by 4:30pm on May 15. Riverbend Park, 16618 Township Road 208, 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free

18 THURSDAY Ohio Spring Fest 2017 - Jim White Honda sponsors a spring festival that features live music, carnival games, rides and attractions. 4pm. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo 419-381-8851. Find Ohio Spring Fest 2017 on Facebook. Free

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• May 2017 • www.findlayfamily.com

Little Samurai - Teach your kids the skills to be a powerful samurai. The class teaches beginners basic motor skills, teamwork and judo techniques. The class is for ages 5-7. 6pm. $25/membership, $15/family membership holder, $50/general admission. Findlay YMCA, 1400 Manor Hill Rd., 419-422-9922. findlayymca.org

19 FRIDAY All About Seeds & Plants - Feasels Garden Center invites guests to explore seeds and plants through a storytime, hands on activities and seed planting. This event is designed for ages 3-6. 1pm. Free with admission. Children’s Museum of Findlay, 1800 Tiffin Ave., 567-250-9616. cmfindlay.com Free

20 SATURDAY Color Run Happy 5K - This 5k walk/run is the largest fundraiser for NAMI, National Alliance on Mental Illness, and allows them to provide free community support programs and events. The event includes entertainment, games, and the 5K walk/run. 8am. Price Varies, Riverside Park, 219 McManness Ave., 419-425-5988. namiofhancock.org Spring Disc Golf Tournament Riverbend Park hosts a basic disc golf tournament. Pick your two most versatile discs for two rounds of frisbee golf. There will be cash prizes for the winner. 9am. $20. Riverbend Park, 16618 Township Road 208, 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Colonial Lost Arts Festival - Travel to the 18th century at the Colonial Lost Arts Festival. This festival features historic craft demonstrations, music and art. Reenactors give a glimpse of daily life in more than 20 authentic camps. See a wide range of demonstrations from blacksmithing to cooking. May 20/10am-6pm, May 21/10am-4pm. $5/adult, $2.50/children. Seven Eagles Historical Education Center, 16486 Wapakoneta Rd., Grand Rapids. 419-509-0095. Find the Colonial Lost Arts Festival on Facebook. Photography Hike - Combine hiking and the art of photography to capture the natural beauty of Ohio. Guests will be guided on a nature hike, with frequent stops to take some photos. This event is recommended for ages 10 and up. 10am. Litzenberg Memorial Woods, 6100 U.S. Route 224, 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Outdoor Adventure Expo - Do you want to get more involved in outdoor activities, but don’t know which is for you? The Outdoor Adventure Expo gives guests a chance to try archery, fishing, canoeing, biking and more. There will be live music, food trucks and industry exhibitors. 10am. Side Cut Metropark, 1025 W. River Rd., Maumee. 419-407-9700. metroparkstoledo.com Free

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The 32nd Annual Bark in the Park Families are invited to bring their furry friends to a day in the park. There will be games for kids and pups, live music and food. Proceeds benefit the Toledo Area Humane Society. 11am. Toledo Humane Society, 827 Illinois Ave., Maumee. 419-891-0705. toledohumane.org Free

24 WEDNESDAY Art in the Park: Plein Air Gatherings Hancock County Park district invites artists of any medium to create outdoors. This is an opportunity to use the park for inspiration, and to meet local artists. Guests are asked to dress accordingly, but if there is rain the session will be cancelled. 9am. Meet at the Waterfalls overlook at Riverside Park, 16618 Township Rd. 208. 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com

31 WEDNESDAY OVO from Cirque du Soleil - Guests will be transported to an ecosystem filled with insect life. This high energy production shows insects as they move, love, work, fight and dance. The story focuses on a new insect that finds his way to the community and the lady bug that catches his eye, along with a mysterious egg that is found in their environment. This is Cirque du Soleil’s newest traveling show that is sure to excite with its high flying acts and acrobatics. May31- June 2/7:30pm, June 3/ 3pm, 7:30pm, June 4/1:30pm, 5pm $25-$150. The Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave., 419-255-3300. huntingtoncentertoledo.com

27 SATURDAY Fort Meigs’ First Siege 1813 This reenactment shows a pivotal moment in our nation’s history, where the soldiers are surrounded at Fort Meigs by the British. Reenactors from across the nation gather at Fort Meigs for a recreated battle, military camp and demonstrations. 9:30am. $9/adults, $8/seniors, $5/students $1/child, Free/children 5 and under. Fort Meigs, 29100 W. River Rd., Perrysburg. 419-874-4121. fortmeigs.org Star Wars Night: Mud Hens vs. RailRiders Become one with the Force at this Star Wars promotional night at the Toledo Mud Hens. Meet your favorite characters from the popular science fiction saga. A prize pack will be awarded to the fan with the best costume. The team will wear themed jerseys and specialty food items are available. The night concludes with post game fireworks. 6:05pm. $15. Fifth Third Field, 406 Washington St., 419-725-4367. mudhens.com Telescopes 101 - Don Trinko of the Millstream Astronomy Club teaches guests the basics of looking through a telescope. Discover which type of telescope is best suited for you. All ages are welcome. 9pm. Riverbend Recreation Area, 16618 Township Road 208, 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free

28 SUNDAY Becky’s School of Dance “Curtains Up” - Becky’s School of Dance presents its recital “Curtains Up.” 6:30pm. $16. Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, 200 W. Main Cross St., 419-423-2787. marathoncenterarts.org

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free 20-word ad per month (products offered in ads must sell for under $100). Each additional word 40 cents, payment must accompany ad. Free ads run one month and are reserved for private-parties use, noncommercial concerns and free services. Ads MUST be typed or neatly printed and MAILED, E-MAILED, or DROPPED OFF to Ann Arbor Family Press. Classifieds by the15th of the month prior to publication.

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words or less. Each additional word is 40 cents each and any artwork will be $5 extra. Display Classifieds: Display classifieds with a box may be purchased for $25 per column inch. Photos are accepted with ads for an additional $5 per photo.

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25 THURSDAY Kick, Catch and Throw - This class introduces children ages 3-4 years olds to the world of sports. Learn the fundamentals through age appropriate activities. Parents are encouraged to attend with their kid. Registration is required. 10am. $20/members, $40/nonmembers. Findlay YMCA, 300 E. Lincoln St., 419-422-4424. findlayymca.org

marketplace

Wednesdays

Little Tikes Play Date - This session allows kids to play with the library’s selection of educational toys, games and activities. 10:15am. FindlayHancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St., 419-422-1712. findlaylibrary.org Free

May 16-21

Innovation Week - Imagination Station challenges your creativity and problem solving skills with Innovation Week. Design your own marble machine using funnels, tubes, clothespins and dowel rods. 10am–5pm/Tuesday–Saturday, Noon–5pm/Sunday. Free with admission. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way, Toledo. 419-244-2674. imaginationstationtoledo.org

Wednesdays

Be Inspired - Awakening Minds Art exposes guests to famous artists, books and nature to inspire them for their own art creation. This class is for all ages and abilities, and the subjects of each class change every week. 5:30pm. $10. Awakening Minds Art, 515 Main St., 419-302-3892. awakeningmindsart.org

Fridays

Cosmic Color, an Adventure Along the Spectrum - Learn why different objects are colored the way they are. Travel in the interior of a plant leaf and the human eye in this ongoing show at Ritter Planetarium that teaches all about the color spectrum. Fridays at 8:30pm. $7/adults, $5/children. Ritter Planetarium, 2855 W. Bancroft St., 419-530-2650. utoledo.edu

Saturdays

Painting Class - Awakening Minds Art offers an art class that is designed for all ages and abilities. An instructor guides guests as they paint. 10am. $10. Awakening Minds Art, 515 Main St., 419-302-3892. awakeningmindsart.org

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