Toledo Parent April 2014 by Adams Street Publishing Co.

our 22nd year connecting with families

FREE APRIL 2014

T LAS E TO NC CHA

TliEne! O VDead 5th il 1

Apr

p11

Getting the Itch Out

New boutique offers relief from head lice

Tips from the Trenches p32

p12

Banish the words "I'm bored" this summer

Mary Beth Alberti

2014 p36

Improving the lives of children with Type 1 Diabetes

• April 2014 • www.toledoparent.com

www.toledoparent.com • April 2014 •

Toledo’s Award-Winning Parent Newspaper

Volume 24 • Issue 4 April 2014

departments 6 7 8 9 39

commentary

community snapshots what’s briefly happening new kids on the block exceptional families calendar

— compiled by Marisa Rubin & Chloe Rothschild

43 marketplace

35 mother mayhem

Are you Being Served?

Contemplating controversy in this melting pot nation — by Mary Helen Darah

36 parent profile Mary Beth Alberti is Exactly

Executive director of Diabetes Youth Services shares what she’s passionate about — by Nadine Hariri

37 food fight Pass the Pasta! Caylynn, 5, Perrysburg

NCE LAST CHA TO VOTE!

2014

Where She Wants to Be

Classic Italian cuisine with a twist — by Karen L. Zickes

38 A Most Unexpected Journey

Moving forward after loss — by Karen L. Zickes

S E H C N E TR HE T M RO

p 32

p 11 recycle this paper For our children's future ...

ONLINE Exclusive

Mad Libs for Moms

Moms deserve a break and Christina Katz tells you just how to do that with these genius, guilt-free ideas to recharge and revamp. Read Moving Beyond Mommy Burnout: 20 Ways to Recharge in Only 20 Minutes at

toledoparent.com to see her tips!

Congratulations to Kristin Phillips, of Toledo, whose clever responses made her the winner of our Mad Libs for Moms contest! See our Facebook page to read her “laugh out loud” inserts to our word game.

• April 2014 • www.toledoparent.com

p 12

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NEX ISSU T E

What was your favorite summer camp activity?

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) Making lanyards and sit-upons

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) The Color War, Go Greens!

Editorial

Assignment Editor: Nadine Hariri (nadine@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Swimming lessons! Calendar: Marisa Rubin (mrubin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Boone Doggle Social Media Specialist: Brandon Doriot (aspcmedia@gmail.com) Sneaking off with girls Contributing Writers: Mary Helen Darah, Erin Marsh, Sue Lovett, Nan Bauer, TiAnna Anderson, Christina Cordova, Karen L. Zickes

Art/Production

Art Director: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Ghost stories and campfires Graphic Design: Brittney Koehl (adsin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) swimming Jameson Staneluis (jameson@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Arts and crafts Kyle Iwanicki: (kyle@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Building Forts in the woods!

Advertising Sales Manager: Aubrey Hornsby (ahornsby@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Surfing… I’m from Florida Sales Coordinator: Emily Gibb (classifieds@toledoparent.com) dance camp Customer Service Representative: Rachellyn Marsh (rsmarsh@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Horse back riding Sales: Sharon Kornowa (sharon@toledoparent.com) Horseback riding Sam Rotroff (srotroff@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Napping Lydia Schaefer (lydia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Horseback riding Molly Davis (molly@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Tug-a-war Brittini Gonzalez (brittini@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Painting

Administration

Accounting: Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) Swimming

ARIES

Adams Street Publishing Co.

KIDS HOROSCOPE March 20 April20 By Sue Lovett

Aries kids are the “me first” sign of the zodiac. They are full of energy and fire from the moment they take their first breath of air. They come into the world in a hurry, looking around to see who is there and what is going on. They are not shy and they have no fears. They move constantly and explore with their eyes until they are big enough to crawl, stand, and walk. They do not like fences or play pens or limits of any kind. They ride tricycles and fire engines as soon as they are big enough to climb on. The symbol for Aries is a ram and these kids lead with their heads as they walk and run. They get along well with other children so long as they are as active and adventuresome as the Aries. They love sports of all kinds. They do have a bit of a temper but never carry a grudge. They enjoy wearing hats or caps and are team players.

Distribution: Michelle Flanagan (distribution@toledoparent.com) hangin’ out at the jersey shore! (I didn’t go to camp)

Advertising/General Info For advertising and general information, call 419/244-9859 or fax 419/244-9871. E-mail ads to adsin@toledocitypaper.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 © 2014 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without written permission of the publisher. Also publishers of:

Audited by

LL! A C T S LA .11 g p e t Vo www.toledoparent.com • April 2014 •

baby

bloopers Kids say and do the darndest things. See what had us laughing this month! If your kid quotes make it on this page, you can win giveaways from Toledo Area Parent!

My 3-year-old son often goes entire days not responding to his name. If I want to get his attention, I have to call him Iron Man. His teacher has mentioned he sometimes does this at preschool too. Katie Lake Lockie, of Toledo

When talking about St. Patrick's day a few weeks ago, my daughter Jordyn (then 5, she turned 6 this month) asked “Patrick has a day? When is Spongebob's day?” Ciaira Warfield, of Toledo

Yesterday my 2-year-old went potty in the big girl chair and while flushing she looked in and said “Bye poop, see you soon...mwwah.” I wish I had my phone nearby! Carol Sue, of Sylvania

ledo Nic Merzke, 9, To

Lyla Ballard, 2, Sylvania

Ellah and Bryson Schaffer, 5 and 4, Toledo

Mayson Samuel Meek, 16 months, Maumee

While my 4-year-old daughter was laying in bed next to me she said “So...Leila is my nickname, Cali Cat is California's nickname, Delilah's nickname is Lilah, your nickname is Kristin…” I interrupted and said "Kristin is my real name, not my nickname." She stared dramatically at me for a moment and then said "I thought your real name was Mamacita." Kristin Torio, of Point Place

Our hair stylist asked my 4 year old where she got her blue eyes and my daughter replied "I don't know, I've had them all day." Heather Hardesty Erekson, of Bowling Green

Submit your to funniest moments ay make it on the M ge Baby Bloopers pa to and have a chance om Lo l na igi Or win The Boom, the perfect your way to organize elet house full of brac s! ion creat facebook.com/ toledoareaparent

• April 2014 • www.toledoparent.com

Connor and Olivia Messer, 5 and 3, Holland

Notre Dame Academy sophomore Maggie Dunn and senior Janie Duncan make Mardi Gras masks

what’sbrieflyhappening...

Oh, the Places You’ll Go…

Saving the Earth One Animal at a Time

With a Good Book, That Is! In a day and age when libraries are

fading and bookstores are becoming a thing of the past, Grand Rapids residents couldn’t have been more thrilled when entrepreneur, Dorinda Shelley, turned three of the six abandoned buildings she bought or rented into bookstores: The Happy Historian, Library House Books and Art and Library House Children’s Books. While most can agree that the more book stores the better, it’s the children’s bookstore that has residents talking. Encased inside a little yellow house, Library House Children’s Books is a place where children are encouraged to roam about, touch and feel the books, sit down and get cozy with a stuffed animal and just escape into a fairy tale or wonderland. There are hundreds of paperbacks and hardcovers to choose from—most priced for less than $5, all collected from auctions, library sales and private sales, and all waiting to be explored by a little one’s imagination. Hours are Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday Noon-4pm. Library House Children’s Books, 24124 Front Street, Grand Rapids, and on Facebook at Library House Children’s Books. 419 830-8050.

By Christina Cordova

Join the Humane Society for a little backyard celebration and save a few lives while you’re at it.

Sylvania's Sylvan Elementary School winning banners by fourth and fifth graders Allison Addington, Emily Knapp and Emma Jurski, hang on display

Art for One, Art for All

For the past two years, the Sylvania Community Arts Commission has chosen a business or organization to contribute to the city’s efforts to make Sylvania a more beautiful place to live. They do so by having them create three banners that will don the city’s walls for four months. This year, the commission teamed up with Republic Services, sponsor of the project, to artistically inspire youth. And that’s just what they did for the 4th and 5th graders of Sylvan Elementary. Though there were over 100 submissions – and though all designs were amazing – the designs of three lucky artists—Allison Addington, Emily Knapp and Emma Jurski—were chosen. Now, as patrons stroll the streets of Sylvania this spring, they can admire the art as well as the view. If you ask me, knowing you’ve contributed to the beauty of your hometown is a much better reward than blue ribbons and gold metals.

What better way to mold the minds of future generations than to lead by example? Why, through animals, nature and games of course! Come out to Toledo’s Humane Society for the ultimate lesson in recycling, taught by the dynamic staff at TAHS. This team of caring individuals is setting aside Earth Day to show children and families how they rescue animals, rehabilitate them and rehome them in the hopes of passing these life-saving skills on to the younger generations. To keep things interesting and lively, children will be invited to participate in a scavenger hunt and to play a few “backyard” games. It’s never too early to start teaching our children about respecting and caring for all creatures, no matter their shape, size or color. The TAHS has found a fun and lighthearted way to broach this topic. Saturday, April 5 from 10am-noon. $20/children 7-12 years old. Toledo Humane Society, 1920 Indian Wood Circle, Maumee. Register online today to reserve your spot at www.toledoareahumanesociety.org.

March of Dimes March for Babies With a goal of one day seeing all babies born healthy, The March of Dimes is getting ready to March for Babies! Anyone with a passion for improving the health of newborns can expect a fun-filled day with other people who are there to do the same. There will be teams made up of families, friends and companies will all be marching to improve the lives of premature babies. One of the best feelings is knowing that you are helping people grow their families to be happy and healthy. Join the event and walk to raise money for babies right here in the local community! Sunday, April 13 with registration at 8:30am and the walk beginning at 10am. Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave., Toledo. Start fundraising today and visit the website to see what you can win. Find out more information by calling 419-534-3600 or marchforbabies.org.

www.toledoparent.com • April 2014 •

In case you missed the article about head lice removal in the February issue, you can find it online at toledoparent.com/ February-2014/Head-Lice.

Getting the Itch Out

A new service offers relief from head lice By Nan Bauer Anyone who’s dealt with head lice knows that the issue isn’t just a scalp that never stops itching. It’s also emotional trauma. “I get 20-minute cryfest calls a lot,” says Sarah Casello-Rees, who has just opened her fourth branch of Rapunzel’s Lice Boutique, the first in Ohio. She understands; it was her own struggle with the affliction that led her to start The head lice removal expert is now her business. “My son Donovan healing heads in Toledo brought head lice home with him,” she says. “I’ve since found out that, when kids get head lice, the mom also gets them 80% of the time. I have long curly hair, and it took me a year to get rid of them.” Every single “nit”, the tiny eggs laid by the lice approximately half an inch from the scalp, must be removed. “It’s pretty close to impossible to treat yourself,” says Sarah. “I tried to go about my business, but it’s awful; you’re always afraid you’re going to pass them on to someone. I was so anxiety-ridden and desperate.” After trying every product she could find, she finally found a person she could hire to comb through her hair and remove the nits. “I wished there was a place that just specialized in removing head lice, and then I thought, maybe I can be that person who starts that business.” Rapunzel was born, first as a mobile operation that traveled to people’s homes, and then in its first location in Ann Arbor. It was so successful, Sarah added two other treatment centers in Michigan. “People from Ohio were coming to us and begging us to open a location here,” says Sarah. “My husband is from the Toledo area, and we’re thrilled to be part of this community.” Trained workers use a clinically-tested product that dehydrates the lice and their nits before combing them out. All family members are checked, and can either opt for a full treatment onsite or a kit to do the procedure themselves at home. “People can have a hard time seeing any light at the end of the tunnel,” says Sarah. “Getting head lice is normal, and we can help.” Rapunzel’s Lice Boutique is located at 2525 N. Reynolds Road, Suite 6, Toledo. Call 419-214-0414 or visit rapunzelslice.com for more information.

• April 2014 • www.toledoparent.com

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Shannon Dane, marketing director, Jamie Cummins, resident and participant, Elliot West, horticulture manager, and Vicki Obee, executive director

Fresh Produce is Steps Away from your Door Fresh, local and wholesome foods grown and harvested locally are available all summer long at Bittersweet Farms. Bringing sweet flavors to doorsteps through communitysupported agriculture while helping improve the lives of adults with autism is their goal! A recent grant approval will allow them to extend their services to community members, but more importantly, the individuals living with autism. Three “seasons” beginning in April, July and September will be offered for membership where supporters will receive a weekly share, standard or petite, of vegetables to enjoy with their families. And don’t forget their infamous Bittersweet Pesto, which is made fresh on the farm! A new Arugula Pesto and Tomato Chutney sauce are in the works now, also. —NH For more information and to receive delicious produce, visit bittersweetcsa.com or call Elliot West at 419-875-6986.

Champion Collards

Autism Society Presents "Make Play ROCK!" Parents and kids will learn how to play in a whole new way when Lisa Drake, Program Director for Autism Services at the Hanen Centre in Canada, teaches parents how to help their child with autism play and interact! Wednesday, April 30 from 6:309pm and Thursday, May 1 from 9:15-11:45am. Toledo Hospital Education Center Auditorium, 2109 Hughes Dr., Toledo. $10 for parent/family members; $15 for professionals if registered in advance: $5 extra at the door. For registration information and for more about upcoming workshops, visit www.asno.org.

www.toledoparent.com • April 2014 •

• April 2014 • www.toledoparent.com

Support group for moms ................................................... Mom-friendly play date ..................................................... Place for single parents to mingle ...................................... Parent blog ....................................................................... Date night restaurant ........................................................ Place for pampering .......................................................... Grown-up getaway ............................................................ Mother’s Day festivities .....................................................

Watch me Grow!

Yummy in my Tummy

Preschool ........................................................................... Place for tutoring/Learning center ..................................... Teacher and their school ..................................................... Elementary school .............................................................. Middle School .................................................................... After-school program ......................................................... Extracurricular activity ....................................................... Special needs services ........................................................ Daycare ............................................................................. Drop-in childcare ...............................................................

Name................................................................................................................................... City/ST/Zip.................................................................................................................. Address............................................................................................................................. Email.................................................................................................................................... Rules: 1. You may only vote once. 2. No answer should be repeated more than three times. 3. A minimum of 30 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: Tuesday, April 15, 2014, 5 p.m.

m co

Place for a birthday bash ................................................... Family-friendly entertainer ................................................ Place to get birthday cake .................................................. Shop to buy birthday presents ...........................................

What’s up, Doc? Pediatrician ........................................................................... Pediatric practice ................................................................... Place to nurse a baby ............................................................ Emergency care .................................................................... Place to give birth ................................................................. OB/GYN ............................................................................... Midwife ................................................................................. Family doctor ........................................................................ Optometrist ........................................................................... Chiropractor .......................................................................... Allergist ................................................................................ Nutritionist ............................................................................ Veterinarian .......................................................................... Dentist/Orthodontist ............................................................. Vision care ............................................................................ Dermatologist .......................................................................

Mommy Time

E IN

Piece of Cake

Kid’s clothier ...................................................................... Kid’s shoe shop .................................................................. Maternity clothing store ..................................................... Place for furnishing the baby room .................................... Local baby boutique shop ..................................................

Place for winter fun .......................................................... Activity for rainy days ....................................................... Summer day camp ............................................................ Dance class ....................................................................... Martial arts program ......................................................... Art studio .......................................................................... Music class ........................................................................ Free activity ...................................................................... Family-friendly fair or festival............................................ Picnic spot ......................................................................... Kid’s theater ..................................................................... Place to volunteer ............................................................. Park or playground ........................................................... Spot to read a book .......................................................... Swim lessons ..................................................................... Water park ....................................................................... Vacation spot .................................................................... Family-friendly gym ......................................................... Gymnastics center ............................................................. Bowling alley .................................................................... Place to see animals .......................................................... Tween activity ................................................................... Sports camp ...................................................................... Local toy store .................................................................. Kid’s photographer ............................................................

Boutique Bliss

Let the Good Times Roll

Family Favorites

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Bakery ................................................................................. Family-friendly restaurant .................................................... Place to have icecream ......................................................... Healthy fast food .................................................................. Local pizza place .................................................................. Place where kids eat free ...................................................... Natural food store ................................................................

All About Us Favorite thing about Toledo Area Parent ..................................................................... New ideas you’d like to see in Toledo Area Parent ....................................................... Best Toledo Area Parent column .................................................................................. Reason to visit www.toledoparent.com ........................................................................

For display advertising call Emily at 419.244.9859 or email sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com Space reservation deadline May 15th Winners announced in the June issue of Toledo Area Parent

Please mail completed ballots to 1120 Adams St. Publishing Attn: Family Favorites, Toledo, OH 43604. Or vote online at toledoparent.com!

www.toledoparent.com • April 2014 •

Summer Camp Fair April, 26 at Franklin Park Mall. See pg 31 for more info.

Build It!

Levis Commons, 5180 Chappel Dr. Perrysburg 419-690-9311 builditperrysburg.com

What is a typical day at camp like?

Our focus is to teach 21st century skills, so we pair kids up to build teamwork, provide building challenges to promote critical thinking skills and allow them an opportunity to show off their creativity. Most of the time kids are building with LEGO®, DUPLO® or K'NEX®. We have two options this summer. There are camps that last 4 days for 2 hours each day and Workshop Series which last 2 hours each session.

2014 Mixing fun while learning is what these local summer camp programs are about. Whether swimming, cycling, or horseback riding, memorable experiences are just ahead!

• April 2014 • www.toledoparent.com

Ages: Most classes are designed for K-6. Our Robotics, Movie Making and Minecraft® appeal to older kids as well. Open Play on Mondays from 10am7pm and Saturdays from 10am-noon is designed for ages 2-12. Staff/camper ratio: 1:6. Cost of camp: $20 for the two-hour

workshop and $80 for the four-day camps.

What is a typical day at camp like?

Camp Discovery at Children’s Discovery Center

6 locations to serve you 419-867-8570 childrensdiscoverycenters.com

Experience a unique opportunity for school-age children to enjoy a summer filled with adventure, learning, and fun. Our “Summer of Wonder” curriculum introduces children to the wonders of weather and nature. Children will learn how to prepare for weather-related events; how weather phenomena affect nature and animals; and the effects constellations have on geography, tides, and seasons. Groups will travel each week to field trip destinations around Toledo, including the Toledo

Zoo, Toledo Art Museum, Maumee Bay State Park, Seneca Caverns, Appold Planetarium, Grand Rapids Canal Boat, and more. Campers will have the opportunity to plunge into our commercial swimming pool each week and participate in team sports including basketball, soccer, dodgeball, and more.

Collingwood Presbyterian Church

2108 Collingwood Blvd., Toledo 419-243-3275 ext. 6 collingwoodpc.netg

Ages: 6-10. Dates: June 9-August 15. Care is

What is a typical day at camp like? Everyday kids visit different stations like Music and More, Bible Adventures, Blast Off Games, and Project with a Purpose. We have wonderful daily opening and closing parties with singing, skits, and slideshows where the kids are the stars! Snacks too!

locations.

Ages: Preschool programs- 4 to Kindergarten. Elementary programs- grades 1 through 5.

provided from 6:30am to 6pm. Catered snacks and lunches are provided daily. We are now enrolling at five nearby

Cost of program: Our Vacation Bible School is always FREE!

What is a typical day at camp like? Children’s

Children’s Theatre Workshop

2417 Collingwood Blvd., Toledo 419-244-5061 childrenstheaterworkshop.org

Theatre Workshop of Toledo is offering five theatre camps this summer. They begin June 9 and culminate in a full production of Disney’s “Mulan, Jr” on July 25 and 26. “Fairy Tale Network” from June 23-27 and “The Little Boy Who Cried Wolf” from August 4-8 and 10 run from 9am to 3pm. “Little Red Robin Hood” from July 14-18 runs from 9am-5pm, and our new Theatrical Design and Tech Camp from August 11-15 runs from 9am-3pm.

Ages: 6 and up. Cost of camp: Range from $120 to $160 and are

run by CTW staff with degrees in arts and/or education. For more information, visit the CTW website or email the office at ctwtoledo@gmail.com.

Educare Academy 419-704-2009 10 locations servicing the Toledo, Oregon, Rossford, and Maumee areas educareacademys.com

What will children experience at camp? Our Summer Adventure Camp is like no other, which may explain why children of all interests, keep coming back, year after year. We make sure our customized activities, trips and special events are fresh and and up to the minute, taking into account the ever changing interests of young people. We implement learning through technology with computers, iPads, and wii systems in all of our classrooms. Ages: 6-12. continued on pg 14

www.toledoparent.com • April 2014 •

continued from pg 13

Kids Archery Camps at Cleland’s Outdoor World 10306 Airport Hwy, Swanton 419-865-4713 clelands.com

What is a typical day at camp like? We have a unique, fun, and affordable Summer Camp

alternative for your children. Our summertime Kid’s Archery Camps provide hands-on educational instruction in the ancient art of archery. Students learn how to make their own quivers and fletch an arrow, proper technique and equipment selection, and are given supervised target practice on our range. We can also provide archery instruction on location to fit your budget and expectations.

Ages: 9 and up. Staff/camper ratio: 1:10. Cost of camp: $100 per week for 3-hour, 4-day sessions. What is a typical day at camp like? Skills Camp 2014 is an all-

day camp that helps to develop new skills and character in every camper. During the morning hours, campers will participate in one of 11 sport or art camps, which include Archery, Basketball, Cheerleading, Creative Arts, Dance, Dodgeball, Fashion Design, Football, Cornerstone Photography, Skateboarding, Soccer, and Vocal. Church After lunch, all campers will gather together for 1520 S. Reynolds Rd., Maumee some powerful sessions with Ricardo Miller, a 419-725-5000 Next-Generation Leader from Dallas, TX.

cornerstonechurch.us

Ages: 7-16. Staff/camper ratio: 1:10, staffed by professional

coaches and experienced volunteers

Cost of camp: Register at a low cost of $50 by May 18. The cost will increase to $70 per camper at the door. Dates: June 23-June 26.

• April 2014 • www.toledoparent.com

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

What is a typical day at camp like?

Country Lane Tree Farm offers three special summer camps. The three-day Pony Camp and the two-day Pony Camp are both geared for the children who have always wanted a pony of their own! They learn how to pick hooves, brush and groom ponies, saddle and ride 30-45 minutes per day, and help in feeding and cleaning stalls. Pony Camp is a personalized camp with a limited number of participants. Farmer Camp is for the child that loves all animals of every size. Children will have plenty of "hands-on" experience with farm animals, learn animal care and help with daily chores.

Ages: The three-day camp is geared for ages 5-12 years old. The two-day Pony Camp is geared for 4-5 year olds. Each child has a Pony Handler with them at all times. Cost of camp: Prices are $125 for 3 days;

Emmanuel Christian School

4607 W. Laskey Rd., Toledo 419-885-3558 emmanuelbaptist.com

What will children learn in a typical day at camp? Children will learn the “age appropriate” basics of basketball. Obviously, the older the camper, the more depth to the instruction. We teach the biblical philosophy of competition and athletics.

Ages: We have camps for boys grades K-8 and for girls from grades K-9. Staff/camper ratio: One staff member for every 4 or 5 campers. Cost of the camp: It ranges from $25-$100. Dates: June 10 - June 13.

$95 for 2 days. Farmer Camp’s price is $65. All three camps create a daily craft keepsake, receive a T-shirt and have a Pizza Party!

Gateway School

4650 W. Bancroft St., Toledo 419-536-6503 gatewaypre-k.com

KinderCare Learning Center

5 local locations to serve you 419-866-0142 kindercare.com

What will children experience at camp? What is a typical day at camp like? We

will meet each morning from 8:30am to 11:30am. Gateway summer camps will follow a new theme each week. This year, these fun-filled themes are based on the best of children’s literature. Along with art, blocks, computers, dramatic play, fine motor, gross motor, language arts, music, science and social studies centers and activities set up inside and outside the school, the children will also have the opportunity to experience insects, art, animals, doodads, fantasy, science, and music all through the experience of great children’s literature.

Ages: Two and a half years old and toilet trained through children finishing kindergarten. Staff/camper ratio: 1:10. Cost of camp: $95 for each 4 day camp. Dates: Starting week of May 27- week

of June 23. Weeks of August 4 and August 11.

Every child is different, but they all have one thing in common. They like to have fun! That’s why we’ve designed six different programs for summertime that are safe, conveniently located and flexible enough to work with your busy schedule. Our Summer Camps will explore Animal Antics, Art, Ancient Egypt, Splish Splash Fun, Wilderness and the Wild, Wild West. Each week our Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten students will enjoy guest visitors and speakers as well as extra fun, theme related activities and water play days. Our School-age friends will go on field trips each week as well as enjoy special visitors, programs and water play days. All of our activities are educational yet fun and interesting for your little one.

Ages: 2 years and up depending on the program. Staff/camper ratio: School-age programs- 1:18, Pre-Kindergarten1:14, Preschool class- 1:12, Discovery Preschool- 1:8. Dates: June 9 - August 22. continued on pg 16

www.toledoparent.com • April 2014 •

continued from pg 15

Metroparks of Toledo Area Summer Camps 5100 W. Central Ave., Toledo 419-407-9701 metroparkstoledo.com/metro

What are popular activities in a camp day? Remember summer camp? Your kids will, too! It’s time to register! Metroparks offers weeklong day camps and one-day camps for all ages, now at four parks across Lucas County. There are even options for families, adults and overnight camping. Our most popular activities are canoeing, river wading, swimming, fishing and water games. Ages: The Wee Workshop: 3-5 with a parent, Explorers camp: 5-7, Nature Camp: 8-12, Teen Camp: 13-16, Family Camp and Overnight Camps are available for all ages. Staff/camper ratio: 1:10 for most camps. Cost of camp:The Wee Workshop is $65, Explorers

and Nature Camp is $115, Family Camp and Overnight Camp is $15 per person. Financial assistance is available for most camps.

Montessori Dates: Programs run from June 2 through August 15. School of Bowling Green 515 Sand Ridge Rd., Bowling Green 419-352-4203 montessorischoolbg.com

What is a typical day at camp like?

Chess Camp: The Montessori Chess Camp is a half-day camp for students in Grades K-8, where fun and learning are emphasized over merely winning. Sessions are held in the mornings between 9am and noon for students of all playing levels: Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced from July 7-July 11. Lego Camps: Wacky Wheels runs from August 4-8 between 9am and noon. Students in first through third grade will creatively build and modify different vehicles including everyday vehicles, concept cars, construction machines, and more using our unique LEGO® kits. Vehicle Brick Building runs August 4-8 between 1 and 4pm. Students is fourth through eighth grade will build up to 13 different motorized vehicles capped off with a final project using our unique LEGO® kits. Vehicles include everyday vehicles, concept cars, construction machines, and more.

Mini Motions 2249 Tremainsville Rd., Toledo 419-473-0999 minimotionsdance.com

What will children experience at camp?

Let your children become performers with our summer camp program. Specializing in dance, we will teach students the arts of ballet, jazz, tap, gymnastics and more! Tap and ballet shoes are provided and no registration fee is required.

Ages: 12-24 months and 2-3 year olds on Mondays & Wednesdays, 4 years and up on Tuesdays & Thursdays. Dates: July 7-July 24.

Staff/camper ratio: 1:12 maximum. Cost of the camp: Average cost is $125.

Morgan Valley Farm Summer Horse Camp 1300 E. Monroe Rd., Tecumseh, MI 517-423-7858 morganvalleyfarm.com

What is a typical day at camp like? Campers at Morgan Valley Farm learn

safety, horse anatomy, horse health, and horse-related occupations. Guest speakers visit camp to discuss various topics. Riding lessons are given daily. Each camper and their partner is responsible for their horse during camp. Campers will have the opportunity to clean, brush, feed and exercise their horses. Special activities vary per camp but may include hay rides and horse-drawn buggy rides.

Ages: 5 years and up, campers are grouped according to age and experience. Staff/camper ratio: Small group/counselor ratios and a knowledgeable staff. continued on pg 18 16

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Norman and Louise Jones Foundation 6202 Trust Dr., Holland 567-703-8511 nljfoundation.org

Premier Volleyball Club

What is a typical day at camp like? The

Norman and Louise Jones Foundation’s Educational Summer Camp is an exciting place for children to spend their summer. Though the focus is on continued learning, there are so many fun and exciting activities that will take place. Children who attend our camp will strengthen and practice their skills in math, science, reading, computer, Spanish, nutrition, art, music, physical education, and etiquette. These classes were selected to provide a well-rounded experience for each and every child.

1630 Market Place Dr., Maumee 419-887-0270 premiervolleyball.com

What are popular activities on a camp day? Our most popular activities at

our Summer Camps are our Specialty Training sessions, Junior School and Youth School camps and our Futures and Munchkin camps. Premier Programs are known for developing strong technique in each individual while providing a safe and learning environment for each athlete. Our Libero and Setting Academy Camps are the best in the area for cultivating players in Defense, Passing and Setting at a high level. Junior School and Youth School focus on all skills and help players prepare for their next level of play within volleyball.

Ages: 6-15. Staff/camper ratio: Typically 1:13. Cost of camp: $450 for each three-week

session. This cost also includes a hot lunch and snack. Scholarships may be available for qualifying students.

Dates: June 16 - July 3, July 7- July 25, July 28 - August 15.

Ages: We start as young as Pre-K, developing motor skills and handeye coordination through specialized equipment in our popular Munchkin camp. Futures and Munchkin camps: Pre-K through 4th graders. Junior School and Youth School camps: 5-8th Graders. Specialty Training sessions for High School aged-players.

Notre Dame Academy 3535 W. Sylvania Ave., Toledo 419-329-2209 nda.org

What is a typical day at camp like? Notre Dame Academy offers a variety of fun and sports camps. Fun camps include dance, baton and twirling, crafts, baking, science, exploratory language, theatre, audition skills, and so much more. Play with the best in basketball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, and volleyball (general and advanced sessions). Indoor sports are played in the Eagles’ air-conditioned gym. Outdoor sports are played on the NDA campus.

Staff/camper ratio: Cost of camp: $95.

1:8.

Ages: Girls entering grades 2-9 in the fall depending on the program selected. Cost of camp: Camps vary from $50 to $80. Remember, NDA has been Sports Champs for ten years in a row! Applications will be available online and by calling starting April 15.

? Kidzcamp summer What is a typical day at camp like ere we offer unique social,

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1375 W. Sylvania Ave., Tol 419-478-6012 pilgrimchurch.tv

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Dates: June 16 - August 15. 18

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STEM Summer Camp at Penta Career Center

What is a typical day at camp like?

Students arrive and meet as a large group for announcements and then are taken to one of five rotations where they will engage in hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) lessons, activities and 9301 Buck Rd., Perrysburg experiments. Students are brought back as a 419-666-1120, ext. 3118 large group for lunch. In the afternoon, students pentacareercenter.org spend a few more hours exploring the STEM topics. Featured programs for STEM Summer Camp include Computer Hardware and Networking, Alternative Energy Technologies, Construction Technologies, Rocket Manufacturing Technologies, and Geographic Information Systems.

Ages: Students currently (2013-2014 school year) in grades 7-9. Cost of camp: $25 includes transportation, materials and lunch. Dates: June 16- June 20.

Rosenbloom’s Farm 2738 Shetland Rd., Toledo 419-841-3320 rosenbloomsfarm.weebly.com

What are popular activities on a camp day?

Some of the most popular activities at Rosenbloom’s Farm camp include having fun with all of the animals, including our horses, llamas, mini donkeys, bunnies and more. Also, all of the art activities and the creative outdoor fun are popular.

Ages: Generally for ages 3 and up. Staff/camper ratio: One staff member

per 6 or 7 children.

Cost of camp: About $115 per week with special discounts available including registering early. Dates:

Camp will be held the weeks of June 23, July 28, and August 4 from Monday-Friday. You can sign up for one or more weeks. Hours are 9:30am-noon with an extended day option.

St. Ursula Academy

4025 Indian Rd., Ottawa Hills 419-531-1693 toledosua.org

What are popular activities on a camp day?

St. Ursula Academy Grades 6-12 invites you to spend your summer in Arrow country! SUA will be offering a variety of athletic and enrichment camps throughout the summer. The Camps include basketball, golf, soccer, volleyball, dance, photography, Camp Laffalot™, and the Arrow Experience.

Ages: Students in grades 1 through 9. Cost of camp: The camps vary in length

from 2 and 5 days with costs ranging from $35 to $110. Find full camp descriptions and registration information online or by calling. SUA is the place to be!

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What is a typical day at camp like? There are

Uncork the Artist 5228 Monroe St., Toledo 419-283-2484 uncorktheartist.com

two Kids Art Camp/Workshop offerings from June 16-19 and July 14-17. Our classes will develop students' interest in art, drawing and painting abilities, self-confidence, and allow them to create beautiful works of art and the confidence to express their imaginations! We will learn about famous artists and techniques and compose a piece in relation.

Ages: 6 and up. Staff/camper ratio: 1:8. Cost of camp: $125 for four

days which includes all materials and snacks/drinks.

St. James Club 7337 W. Bancroft St., Toledo 419-841-5597 stjamesclub.net

What are popular activities on a camp day? Summer activities are huge at the

St. James Club! First of all our Western Lake Erie Swim League championship team from 2013 will begin practice the first week of June in efforts to defend their title. Since all swimmers must be club members to be eligible to participate, Summer Memberships at the St. James Club will be available beginning April 15. One of the exercise highlights the St. James Club offers, is the much anticipated return of Outdoor Boot Camp.This high-intensity regimen mixes cardiovascular, crossfit and plyometric activities. This very popular class is led by instructors Ashley Seyfried and Angie Ash, and will begin in midMay.

Ages: We have different programs that offer something for everyone. Ranging from young children to adult.

Staff/camper ratio:

Most of our programs are a ratio of 4 or 5 to one instructor. We also offer one on one programs.

Cost of camp: Range from $35 to $120.

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St. John’s Jesuit High School

5901 Airport Hwy, Toledo 419-865-5743 sjjtitans.org/summercamps

What are popular activities on a camp day? Summer is fun at SJJ! St. John’s Jesuit High School & Academy invites students to participate in our weeklong Summer FunCamps and SportCamps. FunCamps include archery, chess, fishing, high adventure and Lego robotics, while our SportCamps include baseball, basketball, football, lacrosse and soccer.

Ages: Students entering grades 5-9.

Cost of camp:

Cost for most camps

is $55-$80.

Staff/camper ratio:

Camps vary in size, but most have 10-15 campers per instructor. Our teachers and coaches are great with kids and know how to keep them engaged and challenged, whether it be holding a fishing pole or shooting hoops on the basketball court.

Stonehaven Farms

351 W. Samaria Rd., Temperance, MI 734-854-5825 stonehavenfarms.net

What will children learn at camp?

Stonehaven Farms has summer horseback riding day camps designed to teach the first time rider through intermediate riders to safely and knowledgeably work around and ride horses. We teach English style riding and jumping skills. Our 14 experienced school horses and ponies are perfect for teaching any type of rider not only how to ride correctly in the ring, but also to groom and tack in the barn. Our camps also teach our riders valuable horsemanship information through fun horse activities and games.

Ages: 5-15 year old riders, beginner through intermediate in riding ability. Staff/camper ratio: With the use of our trained counselors, we enjoy a ratio of 1 staff member to 1-2 campers. Cost of camp: Three-day camps are $165 and 4-day camps are $210. Dates: Our first camp will begin Tuesday June 24 and is a 4-day camp. Additional “care” hours are available. Camps run from 9am to 1:30pm and begin on Tuesday of each week.

Sensational Kids Daycare & Learning Center 6060 Merger Dr., Holland 419-724-5434 sensationalkidsdaycare.com

What are popular activities on a camp day? Our Handwriting and Preschool

camps are the most popular. They offer a wide variety of help for children with special needs as well as those who need to keep up with the developmental skills they have already developed.

Ages: 2-12. Staff/camper ratio: We have one on

one as well as classroom ratio of 1:5.

Cost of camp: Ranges from $175$1,100 per camp. Dates: Second week of June through second week of August. continued on pg 22

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SummerTime at Maumee Valley Country Day School 1715 S. Reynolds Rd., Toledo 419-381-1313 MaumeeValleySummerTime.org

What is a typical day at camp like? Half-day and

full-day options at MVCDS summer camps will complement a busy family's summer schedule. All Day Hobbit Camp offers arts and crafts, yoga for kids, and exploring the woods, among many other activities. Hob Haven Afternoon STEAM Camp focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math. Each week campers rotate through a STEAM class, an art class, and an outdoor education class. Week-Long Morning Specialty Classes include soccer, tennis, basketball, yoga, glee performing classes, scrapbooking, abstract art, playmaking, kid's chemistry, algebra, SAT & ACT prep, Chinese, chess, and so much more! Before and After Camp Care available from 7:30am5:30pm.

Ages: All Day Hobbit Camp: ages 4-5, Hob Haven Afternoon STEAM Camp: grades 1-8, Week-Long Morning Specialty Classes: grades 1-12.

Staff/camper ratio:

Our low camper to counselor ratio ensures that every child is given personal attention.

Sylvania Arts Commission Theatre Department 6616 Monroe St. #9, Sylvania 419-517-0118 sylvaniaarts.org

What will children experience at camp?

Do you dream of taking the stage in a musical production? For the eighth year in a row, the Sylvania Arts Commission Theatre Department is offering a twoweek summer production workshop in the Franciscan Center. “King Midas and the Golden Touch,” a new and vibrant musical, will be directed by our artistic director Irina Zaurov, MFA. All SCAC alumni are welcome back! For the newcomers- we’ll hold auditions. We are only able to accept 25 actors and it is important to understand that not everyone may have a speaking part. We are looking for singers and dancers in addition to gifted actors.

Ages: All talented and creative kids in grades 4-12.

Dates: July 28 until August 9, Monday through Friday from 9am–noon.

Dates: June 16-July 25. Closed June 30 through July 4.

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G has

er TB rience at camp? This susmm every child’s What will children expeers for sse cla e schedule of

Toledo Botanical Garden 5403 Elmer Dr., Toledo 419-536-5589 toledogarden.org

an exciting and div living and art s can enjoy pioneer Fairy interest. Time traveler oming Artists or create lovers can become Blo a n tha r the fur to go a step Gardens. Kids ready g un (Yo P YE r ou can try lemonade stand and They’ll ilanthropists) classes. Ph d an urs ne pre Entre sell them n the , icals and yard art make aromatic botan line! on are ls tai De Plant Sale! during our Summer

Ages: 6-16. Staff/camper ratio:

d but there are 1:10 for educator/chil 1:5. ll bringing it to about interns on hand as we for a three-hour class. is between $13-$23 e ng Ra : mp ca of st Co 16. Dates: April 22 through July

Toledo Museum of Art Summer Camp 2445 Monroe St., Toledo, Ohio 43620 419-255-8000 toledomuseum.org/learn/classes

What is a typical day at camp like? As the temperatures rise this summer, the Toledo

Museum of Art becomes the perfect place for children and teens to chill out by enrolling in half or full day summer camp. A day at the Museum involves exploring the galleries and sculpture garden then creating works of art using paint, clay, plaster, metal or glass. “The Museum offers a truly unique summer experience,” said Mike Deetsch, assistant director of education. “With thousands of works of art for inspiration, children and teens are given a great opportunity to learn about the world.” Scholarship opportunities are available!

Ages: 5-18. Staff/camper ratio: One instructor for every 15 campers. Dates: June 23 - July 25.

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Toddler Tech Child Care Center 4030 Royer Rd., Toledo 419-473-3536 toddlertechchildcare.com

What will children experience at camp? Our program provides an age

appropriate atmosphere that challenges the students to be creative thinkers and explorers. We provide field trips, on-site enrichment programs, swimming, meals and snacks. Weekly lessons align with State Common Core Standards, for Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, Technology and Physical Health.

Ages: Preschool through fifth grade. Staff/camper ratio: 1:10 ratio for

preschool students and 1:16 for school age. We also follow 1:5 ratio when out on field trips.

Cost of camp: $62+ for preschool and $155 for school age, we also offer a 15 percent discount for each additional child in the family. Part time rates are also available. Cost of camp:

June 9 - August 22.

Toledo School for the Arts 333 14th St. #4, Toledo Contact Letha Ferguson at 419-246-8732 x 291 ts4arts.org

What are popular activities at a camp day? Enrich your child’s life through the

arts, and where better to be creative than at the award-winning Toledo School for the Arts, in downtown Toledo. In TSA’s Summer Arts Camp, students will enjoy eight days of art experiences that will have them discovering their inner artist. Students will have four art experiences daily. Class choices include 2-D Art, 3-D Art, Glass, Dance, Hip Hop, Karate, Creative Writing, Make-Up Effects, Costuming, Stage Painting, StopMotion Videos, Sewing, Cooking, Beat Recording, GarageBand, Show Choir, and Guitar.

Ages: 10–14. Staff/camper ratio: 1:12. Cost of camp: Early registration is $325

before April 30, a 20 percent savings! Registration includes supplies (some classes require an extra supply fee), and a camp T-shirt.

Dates:

June 11 - June 20.

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What is a typical day at camp like? For the summer

Toledo Volleyball Club

2901 Key St. #2, Maumee 419-794-4656 toledovolleyballclub.com

of 2014 at Toledo Volleyball Club, we will offer All Skills Camps as well as position specific camps that will focus on Attacking, Setting and Passing/ Defense. A variety of skills and drills will facilitate learning, feeling specific techniques and executing volleyball skills in game-like situations. Players will be grouped by age, ability and experience with a focus on incorporating higher level skills. See you this summer!

Ages: 9-18. Staff/camper ratio: 1:10. Dates: Contact Jeannette Abbott for program

dates and fees jeannette@toledovolleyballclub.com.

Summer Camp at West Side Montessori 7115 W. Bancroft St., Toledo 419-866-1931 13587 Roachton Rd., Perrysburg 419-874-9385 montessoritoledo.org

What are popular activities on a typical camp day? Are you looking for an experience that will

inspire your camper’s natural love for learning in a unique and fun summer camp? Register today and enjoy half days, full days, a week, or all summer with camps exploring natural playgrounds, LEGO Robotics, forensic science, cultural encounters, swimming at St. James Club, and more!

Ages: The Toledo Campus accepts 13 month olds through sixth graders. The Perrysburg Campus accepts children 13 months old through Kindergarten.

Dates:

June 11-August 1. continued on pg 30

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University of Toledo College of Visual Arts 2801 W. Bancroft St., MS 611, Toledo 419-530-2452 utoledo.edu/comm-arts/ music/summer.html

What will children experience at camp?

The University of Toledo Department of Music is planning to offer eight different workshops in music. They range in focus from those designed for music educators to performance camps for students in middle school through college. For student participants we offer a Flute Camp, The Summer Jazz Institute, and Art Song Festival & Workshop. These workshops hone students’ music skills across a range of instruments and musical genres, taught by top faculty from around the country and the world.

Ages: Flute Camp with Joel Tse: 12 and up, The Summer Jazz Institute: 14 and up, Art Song Festival & Workshop: 16 and up. Staff/camper ratio: Generally very low, as our workshops keep groups small and focused and include personalized, one-on-one coaching with faculty as part of the curriculum. Cost of camp: Flute Camp: $300/six days (day passes are also an option), The Summer Jazz Institute: $500/7 days (includes the application fee), Art Song Festival & Workshop: \$375/5 days (includes the application fee) Dates: Flute Camp: June 19 - June 14, Summer Jazz Art: June 15 - 21, Art Song Festival & Workshop: June 23 - June 27.

YMCA Summer Camps

Various locations throughout greater Toledo ymcatoledo.org/summercamp

What is the main focus of the camp?

“YMCA camps provide a variety of opportunities to help ensure that youth are learning and being physically active in the summer, a time of exploration,” says Becky Spencer, vice president of camping for the YMCA and JCC of Greater Toledo. “Campers also learn how to be responsible and resourceful, work in groups, solve problems and make decisions that will help them grow as individuals – all while having fun.”

Ages: YMCA Summer Camps are available for youth entering grades 1-12. Y camps are designed to be progressive where children begin their camping experience at day camp and then grow into overnight camp at YMCA Storer Camps. The Y also offers teen leadership and sports and specialty camps throughout the summer. Staff/camper ratio: YMCA Storer Camps exceed the American Camping Association Accreditation Standards for ratios. Day camp and specialty camp ratios are based upon the program and age of participants. Cost of camp: At the Y, there is a summer camp for everyone, and prices depend on the program. The Y offers financial assistance through contributions made to its Annual Campaign.

Tol edo Bal let Sum me r Dan ce Cam p 5001 Monroe St., Toledo 419-471-0049 toledoballet.org

What is a typical day at camp like? Aspiring ballerinas will enter the fairy tale world

when they spend time immersed in famous fairy tale ballets. Each day, they will meet famous fairies including the Lilac and Diamond fairies from Sleeping Beauty, the Sugar Plum Fairy from Nutcracker, and even a woodland fairy! Campers will take Creative Movement / Pre Ballet class, share their own favorite fairy, enjoy daily ehealthy snacks, and make a fairy themed craft that they will use in their end-of-th studio. rehearsal large our in ones loved for nce week mini performa Ages: There are two separate camp sessions: 3-4 year olds and 5-7 year olds.

Staff/camper ratio: 3-4 year old session- 1:8. 5-7 year old session- 1:12. More campers in either session will include a teacher’s aide.

Cost of camp: $90 for the week (Monday – Friday). Dates: July 7-11. 30

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Guide p m a C r e Summ

HE T M RO

S E H C EN

F S P I T

Candice Billau, mom to Phoenix, 16, and Ambrelle, 10, and Koralynn, 6, of Ottawa Lake, MI

What do your kids enjoy the most about summer camp? Getting outdoors and being able to help others. Ambrelle won the Torch Award last summer, and that’s given to two campers from each group who demonstrate the core values of the YMCA: honesty, responsibility, and faith. What do you make sure to pack with you kids when they leave for camp? Lots of stuff! Really, just the basics--like clothing, blankets, sleeping bags, swimsuits--because the camp provides everything else.

How do you know that they are ready to leave you and attend overnight summer camp? Phoenix has been going to overnight camp

since the very first year of second grade. He absolutely loves camp, and every year we took Phoenix, Ambrelle would ask, “Is it my turn? Is it my turn?” Now Koralynn asks, “Is it my turn?” The best way to know if they are ready for overnight camp though: they can go and spend the night somewhere else. The earlier they spend the night somewhere, usually the easier it is for them when they’re a little bit older.

What do your kids enjoy the most about summer camp? I think just getting out of the house and doing something outside. Honestly, I work a lot from home, and I think they enjoy getting away from their siblings and meeting new kids. They feel independent when they are away from us and doing something they really like on their own. Banish the words “I’m bored” from your child’s vocabulary this summer! Enroll them in a Summer Day Camp where they will make new friends and have lots of fun

How do you know that they are ready to leave you and attend summer camp? To be 100% honest, I don’t really know; I just try! My kids have never been big “criers” who freak out when we leave them; they really just enjoy doing their own thing. So basically I send them to camp when I think I need a break! Oh, and they need to be potty-trained for sure.

By Erin Marsh

What do you make sure to pack with your kids when they leave for camp?

I just follow the list of items that they are told to pack. I am a rule follower, so I make sure to get whatever is on the list: water, sunblock, bug spray, utensils for cooking their own food... stuff like that.

Lindsey Brown, mom to (and photographer of) Hannah,15, Emmah, 8, Stephen, 6, and Savannah, 3, of Whitehouse

Ellen Rodriguez, mom to Eddie, 9, and Amelia, 2, of Toledo

What does your son enjoy the most about summer camp? I think it was learning everything

What are your favorite memories from summer day camp? The boys come home every

day wanting to go back; they can’t wait for this year to do it again. They build friendships and they’re friends with the kids from camp, even when they just see them around town, they all say “hi” to each other. The camp has so much: BB guns, archery, swimming

How did you decide upon your camp choice?

What do your kids enjoy the most about summer camp? For Ian, I think it’s spending time with his friends. They have different adventures every day, and it’s all kids, no adults around. Daniel: besides the Trading Post and getting candy everyday? Archery and BB guns. Aidan would probably tell you he hated every day, but he came home happy. His favorite part is probably going swimming and hanging out with his buddies.

I was looking for something that he would like and that would fit his interests. The time and the length of the camp didn’t really matter because I work from home; I didn’t need a 9 to 5 camp.

How do you know that they are ready to leave you and go off for camp? I just knew they had to

they taught him at the camp, and also...interacting with other kids who have the same interests as him.

Do you do anything to prepare for the anticipated homesickness? No, Eddie is very independent. He was so excited about going that there was no homesickness. When he was much younger, he did a little bit, but once he warmed up to the space or started playing with friends, he got distracted and wasn’t homesick anymore.

get out of the house! The summer before they were bored, stayed in the house a lot...and then there was the sibling rivalry. We didn’t have anything to do; they watched a lot of TV. That’s how I knew they were ready for camp the next summer. Stephanie Mahoney, mom to Ian, 14, Daniel, 10, and Aidan, 6, of Sylvania

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Are you Being Served?

Contemplating controversy in this melting pot nation By Mary Helen Darah

Many times I opt out of controversy by what I like to call, “playing Switzerland.” What mother isn’t a pro at remaining neutral in a sea of chaos and diverse opinions? Having lived through some pretty hard-hitting life events, I strive to deal with real problems, not imaginary ones. I knew I had found a doozy of a real problem upon hearing that the state of Arizona passed a bill giving business owners, on the grounds of their religious beliefs, the right to refuse service to homosexuals. Confusion stepped to the front of the line before fear and concern for the ripple effect this could have on our great melting pot of a nation. A few questions: How will business owners know who is gay? Will snappy dressers be instant suspects? Will you have to show your “heterosexual card” at the door? Good Lord, I hope you won’t have to divulge when you decided to be a heterosexual because I don’t recall when I made that decision. Also, even though I am a card carrying “hetero” I have been on non-active status for some time—hope my card isn’t revoked. Maybe it would be simpler to issue t-shirts or stars—wait, I think that’s been done before. What if business owners decide to extend restrictions to other sects of our society? Maybe kids with ADD/HD will be next. I know many a restaurant server who has counted to ten silently in their head as my child took 18 minutes to order a hamburger only to end up getting the soup of the day. If I honestly looked back to my elementary school days, I would have to say we were a strange class.

“Mark the Shark” would chase other kids around the playground while using his hand as an imaginary fin. The only kid he didn’t go after was Harry who thought he was a T-Rex. Eugene, who always ended up as my gym partner, would constantly suck his shirt sleeves and Andy would have a contest (with himself) of how long he could stare cross-eyed. Yours truly, an introverted and skinny girl, would get charged as a teacher going through the lunch line due to her height. Then there was Alan, whose mother took him to Disney on Ice and his life was forever changed. He would come to school in a cape and crown and twirl around the room. Our quirks and differences were many but we shared one important thing; we were loved. I will never forget the look of pride on the face of Alan’s mom when he took his “ice show” to the school stage for a talent contest. The thought that somewhere a “twirler” is being refused service saddens me beyond description. One of the biggest compliments my youngest child ever gave me was upon hearing her say to a group of playmates, “I can break stuff, forget my homework, and I could even be Lebanon and my Mom will love me.” I think she meant lesbian. Regardless, she (who grew up to be a card-carrying, flaming heterosexual) received the message that I am here with unconditional love and respect. I don’t know what it feels like to be refused something I desire or shunned for simply being me. When battling cancer, I experienced what it felt like to be “different.” I continually felt like I was on the outside look-

ing in. I never realized that hair and menstrual discomforts were major topics of conservation in women’s circles until I had neither and my heart sunk when I was referred to as “sir” one day by a bookstore cashier. My mom would always say, “Kids like to be unique as long as they’re like everyone else.” I so desperately wanted to be viewed as “normal” during that time. My variances were temporary and I am back to as normal as I can get. I greatly admire the strength of those who live a lifetime of being unique. At our last social gathering, our home was filled with an agnostic, conservative Jew, two Muslims, four Catholics, three liberal Protestants, our Suz, whose giant spirit can’t be contained in her small frame and wheelchair, and kids dealing with everything from bed wetting to stuttering. I attempt daily to live my life after a man who hung around tax collectors and hookers without a second thought. On a much smaller scale, I regularly perform the miracle of somehow feeding four hungry kids plus all the extras that enter this house. Like Him, I do not make anyone “different” go to the back of the line, segregate them by color or faith, or refuse to feed them. In this house, all are served, even legislators from Arizona.

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Mary Beth Alberti is Exactly Where She Wants to Be Executive director of Diabetes Youth Services shares what she’s passionate about By Nadine Hariri

Mary Beth Alberti exudes enthusiasm when she explains what Diabetes Youth Services is doing for children diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. As the executive director of the program, she doesn’t miss an opportunity to tell the community what she’s doing and why it’s great. “My goal is to teach children that they, and not their diabetes, are in control of their life,” she said. “We try to help kids manage diabetes while doing everyday fun things.” DYS is a nonprofit organization that provides camps and curriculums to educate the 3,000 children living with the disease in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. Their two camp programs, Little Shots and Big Shots, share a goal of helping children understand diabetes through educational fun and forming a sense of community. “The first day of camp, the director will ask how many people have diabetes and everybody raises their hand,” she said. “But at school, they’re most likely one of few that has it. They get to interact with their peers and not feel alone.”

At the Little Shots camp, children ages six to nine learn how to test their own blood sugar and give themselves insulin. The Big Shots camp program is geared toward teenagers with an on-site medical staff and camp counselors that are also Type 1, so they can relate to the campers. Carb counting is the most important topic taught at both camps and carries into the lives of children dealing with diabetes, Mary Beth said. DYS goes far beyond summer camp programs with year-round services including a newsletter, The Sugar Buzz, which reaches 1,000 people, and a “counselors in training leadership program.” Also they provide support for parents with high school students getting ready to go to college and take care of diabetes on their own for the first time. Mary Beth hopes that the skills and info DYS provides sticks with students for life. After a little over a year of being with the nonprofit organization, she has realized that she is exactly where she wants to be.

• April 2014 • www.toledoparent.com

in ited about educational fun Little Shots campers exc m gra pro their summer camp

“This is my dream job,” she said. “Knowing that whether I’m organizing a fundraising event or seeking a grant, all of the money that we bring in is benefiting the kids is very inspiring.” Moving to a new location soon, DYS will be a “one-stop shop” with a pharmacy counter to conveniently provide medications and supplies to patients to help them with their diagnosis. “Unfortunately, there isn’t a cure,” she said. “But that’s why we’re here, to help them cope the best they can.” Diabetes Youth Services, 2100 W. Central Ave. #110, Toledo. Call Mary Beth Alberti at 419-2911236 for information on how to get involved. Visit www.dys4kids.org for more information.

THE SHORT COURSE

Pass the Pasta!

Classic Italian cuisine with a twist By Karen L. Zickes

Ciao! Ristorante

6064 Monroe St. Sylvania, OH 43560 419-882-6014 Mon-Thur: 5pm-10pm, Fri: 5pm-11pm, Sat: 4pm-11pm, Sun: 4pm-9pm www.ciaorestaurant.com I don’t need to have an excuse to go out for a nice dinner with the family; it just makes it easier to justify spending a bit more than our usual five bucks each for subs and pizzas. Recently the kids brought home rockin’ report cards and I thought “Oooohhhhh, I’m sure that calls for a celebration and some finer dining!” We headed to Ciao!, and we were most pleased with our choice.

The whole package

It had been years since I had been to Ciao! It’s just far enough off my normally traveled route that I simply forgot it was another great dining option. A distinctive Mainstreet Venture (MSV) restaurant, Ciao! opened in 1992 and has remained a local favorite. It’s known for its classic country Italian cuisine and features items from every part of Italy. Ciao! is an all scratch kitchen and the

menu features weekly specials that focus on what is in season and locally grown. “Ciao! has its own herb garden. In the summer they pick their own herbs for cooking”, said marketing director Julie White. I’m quite certain most restaurants can’t boast the same. Chef Wesley Wright even offers fabulous classes on how to cook with various herbs. The dimly lit dining area with a burning fireplace as the center focal point was a welcome contrast to the wintery subzero weather we left outside. We quickly settled into our cozy table and our waiter handed each of us an electronic tablet for viewing the menu. It occupied the kids for quite some time. Almost every MSV restaurant features these fabulous menus where you can view a color photo of every food and drink item. They include full descriptions of each item as well as wine pairing suggestions.

Affordable variety

Ciao! offered the whole package; great food, welcoming atmosphere, and attentive service. We feasted on fettuccini alfredo with shrimp, chicken marsa-

Kid-friendly Yes To avoid wait Reservations recommended on weekends Noise level Moderate Bathroom amenities Changing station High chairs Yes Got milk Yes Kids’ menu Yes

la, and North Atlantic “Have you and your family eaten here? Let salmon with cheese Toledo Area Parent know your experience and ravioli. The lasagna was what your favorite dishes were. Send your unique in that it included responses to our Facebook page!” sausage, wild mushrooms, and grilled zucchini. To add to our celebratory dinner, we shared the largest piece of tiramisu I have ever been served. Yet we managed to polish it off with ease. Award winning restaurant Menu items range in price from $8.95 for This past January Ciao! Ristorante a margherita pizza to $31.95 for the beef received the MSV Presidential Award tenderloin entrée. There is a vast selecof Excellence. Basically, within the MSV tion of entrees at all price points making restaurants, they are considered the “best a special meal affordable for a family. of the best.” From business operations to The children’s menu for those 10 kitchen operations, the restaurants are and under offers typical Italian choices examined inside and out, top to bottom such as chicken parmesan, ravioli, spaand they have received the bragging ghetti, and pizza all for $3.95-$5.95 plus rights two years in a row. Award windrink. On the off chance you have a finning Ciao! has remained a local favorite icky young one who doesn’t care for Italsince 1992. The casual and welcoming ian cuisine, grilled chicken and potatoes atmosphere makes it a great place for a is also on the menu. date night, or a dinner out with friends After paying the bill, the waiter and family. The menu offers both stancame back around and congratulate the dard and unique Italian entrees and kids on their hard work and great report the little ones will be delighted by their cards. Those personal touches can really choices as well. go a long way with customers.

www.toledoparent.com • April 2014 •

A Most Unexpected Journey Moving forward after the loss of a loved one By Karen L. Zickes

Karen Zickes is a longtime contributor to Toledo Area Parent and expert restaurant reviewer in the monthly piece, Food Fight. The mother of three beautiful children lost her husband to cancer months ago and continues to amaze us with her courage and passion to move forward. This is the first of her series of articles about life after loss and we hope readers will join in to hear her story. You never imagine it will be your family. You most certainly don’t ever PLAN for it. But then it happens-your spouse of 15 years is diagnosed with a terminal illness. My husband Jim was diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer in November 2012. He lost his valiant fight 10.5 months later. This is our journey. The first four weeks after my husband’s diagnosis remain a complete blur. Barely able to catch our breath, we helplessly gazed into the innocent faces of our three young children wondering what the future held for our family. Life as we knew it ceased and a new unexpected life took residence. Our new life became stuck on fast-forward with no option to hit the pause button. The only thing that mattered was getting tests and

• April 2014 • www.toledoparent.com

scans done as soon as possible, while feverishly researching and calling on doctors you hoped would have the answers to make the cancer go away. We traveled near and far before deciding on our course of treatment. We moved mountains at record speed but sometimes, it’s just Karen and her late husband, Jim, with their children Morgan, Gregory & Nathan never fast enough. and the first thing I did was start a new When life turned upside down I adplaylist titled “Power of Positive”. Someopted six simple, yet powerful practices times, you just need to jam to encouragthat built a strong foundation that set the ing tunes to help you through the day. tone for lay ahead. They have continued Chronicle your journey. Even if to help my family on our most unexpectyou don’t view yourself as much of a ed journey. After all, the family travels writer, keeping family and friends in the the bumpy roads together. loop is beneficial to everyone, and can Accept help. It is extremely hard to even be very therapeutic. do but so very neces“Every journey There are blog sites out sary. And if you are has a secret there such as The Caring the friend of someBridge, or as I preferred; one in need, tell them destination of emailing friends and famspecifically how you which the traveler ily every two weeks. My can best help them; is unaware.” updates included a “medrather than saying — Martin Buber ical update” and a “fam“let me know if you ily update”. I attached family photos of need anything.” Use your imagination what we had been up to over the past and you will certainly identify somecouple of weeks. thing specific you can do for a friend People are anxious to walk the jourin need. ney with you, so why not invite them Bend without breaking. Having along? And when you keep people in a plan is good, and a daily schedule even the loop, you will greatly reduce the better. However, understanding that you constant emails, calls, and texts asking may be on Plan G before noon on most for updates. days is the best way to roll. This is easiBe honest with your kids. Foler said than done and may take a bit of low your gut as to what you think your practice and patience. children are able to understand, but BE Two steps forward, one step HONEST with them, on whatever level back. You will have many forward they can comprehend. Children will be moving days. The subsequent days may more scared if their imaginations run be rattled with unexpected setbacks. wild because of the unknown, and they This will be your new norm. Don’t let need to know they are an important part the backpedaling deter you. of the family too. Stay positive. I am first to say You can be positive and reassurmaintaining positivity isn’t always ating without making false promises. tainable. However, it’s proven that paYou never want a child blindsided, nor tients who fight with a positive attitude do you want them to lose trust in you. respond better to treatment than those Continue the dialogue even after the who choose to give up before even be“family meetings”. ginning their fight. Keeping an upbeat Your journey may be likened to beatmosphere around the house, especially ing in a vortex. Be ready for the twists, with children, is vital. Being positive is the turns, and the unknowns. Whether less draining of your energy and helps you are the patient or caregiver, always maintain routines. Let those around remember the importance of taking even you know that negativity is checked at just 10 minutes a day for you. Remember the door. to find the joy in each and every day. Sometimes having children make encouraging signs or inspirational quotes Karen Zickes is a mom of three active to hang around the house can keep the children and freelance writer who resides in positive energy flowing. I love music, Holland, OH.

April 2014

Reptile take over

Ongoing at The Toledo Zoo In celebration of the Toledo Zoo’s 2014 theme of Flight, the historic Reptile House has been taken over by fantastic flying reptile sculptures. The Reptile House is now home to realistic hand-crafted models of prehistoric birds, as well as other creatures including flying lizards, frogs and snakes. Children will enjoy visiting Baru, the largest Crocodile in North America, measuring 17 feet long and weighing about 1,500 pounds, and the dozens of primitive reptiles that live in the building. Learn how these animals looked millions of years ago and how they adapted to the power of flight. Zoo admission. The Toledo Zoo: Reptile House, 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-4040. toledozoo.org —MLR

Toledo Area Parent Summer Camp Fair Saturday, April 26 / Franklin Park Mall

Parents get a head start on where to keep your little one’s active this summer at Toledo Area Parent’s annual Summer Camp Fair at Franklin Park. Whether it’s residential, academic or a local day camp, this event will help you find the perfect summer camp for your child to have a summer to remember. Vendors on hand include The Toledo Zoo, West Side Montessori, YMCA/JCC and more. There will be free admission and door prizes. 10am-5pm. Franklin Park, 5001 Monroe St. 419-244-9859. toledoparent.com

2014

1 TUESDAY EGGstreme Science - Learn about the density, pressure and chemistry of eggs in a variety of hands-on EGGciting activities. Through April 19. 10am-5pm. Regular admission. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. 419-244-2674. imaginationstationtoledo.org

4 FRIDAY Spring Break Nature Camp Participants will learn and have fun as baby animals scamper about the parks. Please pack a lunch and reusable water bottle for each camper. Fee covers crafts, activities and one snack per camper. For ages 8-12. Registration required. 9am. $35. Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. 419-407-9700. metroparkstoledo.com

Opening Day Double Header: Mud Hens & Walleye - Mud Hens Opening Day is one of the biggest parties of the year in Toledo. The Hens open their season at 4pm followed by The Walleye game at 7:15pm. Get a special doubleheader game ticket and have double the fun. 4pm. Order online for $25. Fifth Third Field & Huntington Center, 406 Washington St. & 500 Jefferson St. 419-725-4367.

5 SATURDAY Egg Drop Challenge - Are you an egg-head? Can you protect an egg from a 20ft drop? Come to Imagination Station and take a crack at this challenge. Just try not to get too much egg on your face. 11am-4pm. Regular admission. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. 419-244-2674. imaginationstationtoledo.org continued on pg. 40

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continued from pg. 39

Nature Detectives Snow Science Getting too big for Wee Workshop? Give Nature Detectives a try. Children can test their sleuthing skills in this interactive program. Nature Detectives investigate similarities and differences between animal babies and their parents. This is a drop-off program. Registration required. 10am. Pearson Metropark, 761 Lallendorf Rd., Oregon. metroparkstoledo.com 3rd Annual Cupcake Showdown Fundraiser - Enjoy a night of sweet family-friendly fun to benefit Children’s Theatre Workshop and cast your vote for the best cupcake in the Toledo area. Area bakeries will show what they have under their big tops with a circus theme inspired by CTW’s upcoming production of Chaucer’s Flying Circus. 6:30-9pm. $15, adults/$10, students & seniors/ children under 5, free. Children’s Theatre Workshop, 2417 Collingwood Blvd. 419244-5061. childrenstheaterworkshop.org 10th Annual Spring Craft Show - This craft show will feature an excellent variety of handmade crafts for all. You’ll find unique gifts for Easter and Mother’s Day. Lunch will be available 11am-2pm, as well as an all-day bake sale. 10am-4pm. Hope United Methodist Church, 4069 W. Sylvania Ave. 419-882-8128.

6 SUNDAY Springtime Geocache Egg Hunt Families and adults are invited to bring GPS units for a fun hunt looking for plastic eggs in the park. Answer all the eggs’

• April 2014 • www.toledoparent.com

questions to claim a prize. Registration required. 1pm. Oak Openings Preserve: Lodge, 4139 Girdham Rd., Swanton. 419-407-9700. metroparkstoledo.com Toledo Symphony Orchestra: Ode To Joy - The Toledo Symphony Orchestra will be live at the Huntington Center, performing Ode To Joy: A Community’s Celebration of Music. Featuring over 1000 student and community member vocalists, this once in a lifetime event is one not to miss! 4pm. $25. Huntington Center. 500 Jefferson Ave. huntingtoncentertoledo.com 13th Annual Afternoon of Close-up Magic - Close-up magic is like no other form of magic. To enhance the audience’s experience of this intimate close-up show, all of the seven magicians repeat their acts in each of five performing rooms which guests select. 2pm. $15. Holiday Inn French Quarter, 10630 Fremont Pike, Perrysburg. 419-255-2921. martinjarret.com Stuart Little - Come see the story of a very unusual mouse who gets born into an ordinary New York City family. 2pm. See website for price. Valentine Theatre, 400 N. Superior St. 419-242-2787. valentinetheatre.com Chocolate for Kids - Kids will make and decorate an edible Easter basket. They will also make chocolate candy and marshmallow Peeps. For ages 7-13. Registration required. 3-5pm. $35. Flying Rhino Coffee & Chocolate, 436 13th St. 419-244-6100. flyingrhinocoffee.com

9 WEDNESDAY Wear Blue Day - Join Ohioans statewide in the Wear Blue campaign as a reminder that child abuse is preventable. Now in its third year, the campaign urges people to wear blue on this day to demonstrate their commitment to protecting children from abuse or neglect. All day. Lucas County Children Services, 705 Adams St. facebook.com/lucascountychildrenservices

11 FRIDAY Preschool Pioneers: From Seed to Plant - Pioneers learn about growing plants and plant their own seeds to start their own pioneer kitchen garden. For ages 3-5 with an adult. 10am. Pearson Metropark, 761 Lallendorf Rd., Oregon. 419-407-9700. metroparkstoledo.com

12 SATURDAY Admission Testing Grades 6-12 If you or your child are interested in the Maumee Valley experience, don’t miss out on admission testing day for grades 6-12. Registration required. 9am-1pm. Maumee Valley Country Day School, 1715 S. Reynolds Rd. 419-381-1313 x105. mvcds.org 3rd Annual Wildwood Spring Carnival - Enjoy a day of fun, food, kid’s games, raffles and prizes. Proceeds from game ticket sales and food sales go towards building the new children’s playground at Wildwood. 10am. Wildwood Preserve Metropark: Ward Pavilion, 5100 W. Central Ave. 419-407-9700. metroparkstoledo.com Free

13 SUNDAY Nature Crew: Fish For Walleye The walleye are in town again! Find out about this underwater world that is so crucial for our local wildlife and hopefully catch a fish! No experience or equipment required. For ages 8-12. Registration required. 2pm. Side Cut Metropark, 1025 W. River Rd., Maumee. metroparkstoledo.com

14 MONDAY Historic Jail & Dungeon Tours This kid friendly guided tour includes the 1892 jail with ties to President Rutherford B. Hayes, the 1840s Dungeon located underneath the Sandusky County Courthouse and the Gallows Exhibition Hall featuring the gallows used for the last hanging in Sandusky County. 5:30-7pm. $2. Sandusky County Historic Jail, 622 Croghan St., Fremont. 419-332-4470. sanduskycounty.org

15 TUESDAY Eggs-travaganza! - Join us for a egg hunt. Please bring your own basket to collect your eggs. Rain or shine. 6-7pm. Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. 419-259-5310. toledolibrary.org Free

18 FRIDAY Animal Egg Hunt - On the Friday before Easter Sunday, animals discover that the Easter Bunny has visited their exhibits, and they track down treat-filled enrichment eggs hidden in their habitats. The Animal Egg Hunt features craft areas and story times throughout the day. 10am. Zoo admission. Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-4040. toledozoo.org

19 SATURDAY Eggxtravaganza! - Toledo’s annual Eggxtravaganza Easter Egg hunt will feature inflatables, face painting, and photos with the Easter Bunny himself.1pm-3pm. Ottawa-Jermain Park. 2600 Midwood Ave. ottawapark.org. Free ART with Nature: Color - Little artists love to play with color, and so does nature. This is a hands-on experience designed to cultivate a love for art while experiencing the outdoors. For ages 3-5 with an adult. Registration required. 10am. Side Cut Metropark, 1025 W. River Rd., Maumee. metroparkstoledo.com

22 TUESDAY Green Science - Reduce, reuse, recycle. Find new uses for old items, and earn your ‘green’ thumb by digging in our unconventional garden. Bicycle tires, old sinks, and even those CD’s you never play anymore can all be ‘up’cycled for useful green tasks. Through April 27. 10am5pm. Regular admission. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. 419-2442674. imaginationstationtoledo.org Wee Workshop: Who’s Baby is This? - What differences are there between baby squirrels, deer or birds? This hands-on program explores what it is like to be a baby in the wild. Participants make a fun craft to take home. Registration required. For ages 3-5 with an adult. 10am Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. continued on pg. 42

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continued from pg. 41

419-407-9700. metroparkstoledo.com

26 SATURDAY Toledo Area Parent’s Summer Camp Fair - Toledo Area Parent’s Summer Camp Fair is a one stop destination for parents to find the best summer camps to fit their children’s likes and needs. Vendors from a wide variety of regional camps will be on hand, from residential, local day, sports, academic and more. 10am-6pm. Westfield Franklin Park, 5001 Monroe St. 419-244-9859. toledoparent.com Party for the Planet - Celebrate with the zoo by bringing in your recyclables and taking part in cool activities that help you learn how to be greener in the future. . 10am-4pm. Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-4040. toledozoo.org Tree City Film Festival “Shorties” The second annual Tree City Film Festival will be featuring “Shorties,” the shorter short films for kids. All students from grades K-12 are encouraged to submit a 3-5 minute video to be presented on the big screen! Entries are due by April 12. $25. Sylvania’s Historical Train Barn, 5717 Main St. treecityfilmfestival.com Reception: 14th Annual Connect to Creativity Teen Art Show - The show features 128 items of drawings, paintings and sculpture made by some 120 local teen artists in grades 6-12. 3:30-4:30pm. Main Library, 325 Michigan St. 419-259-5200. toledolibrary.org

27 SUNDAY Louie the Elephant’s 11th Birthday Louie the elephant turns 11 in April! Come watch Louie enjoy enrichment presents and a mammoth cake. 10:30am-1:30pm. Toledo Zoo, Toledo Zoo: Elephant Exhibit at Tembo Trail. 419-385-4040. toledozoo.org Glass City Marathon - The annual marathon is one of the fastest courses in the nation and acts as a qualifier for the Boston Marathon. A percentage of proceeds will benefit several nonprofit partners, primarily the Great Lakes Collaborative for Autism and Habitat for Humanity. Registration required. Toledo. glasscitymarathon.org Family-Friendly Magic/Comedy Show - To benefit Friends of Lucas County Children Services, a 501(c) (3) charity in support of the activities of Lucas County Children Services. 2-4pm. $7/$20 for 4. Fat Fish Blue, 6140 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg.

28 MONDAY Joyce Davis Presents “Queen Midas and the Golden Touch” Puppeteer Joyce Davis will perform her original show Queen Midas and the Golden Touch. 3:30-4:30pm. Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. 419-259-5310. toledolibrary.org Free

• April 2014 • www.toledoparent.com

marketplace

ENTERTAINMENT

ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE

Free Classifieds: Individuals may receive one 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 1 month and are reserved for private-parties use, noncommercial concerns and free servicesLine Classifieds: Only $20 per month for 20 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.

Deadlines: Ad copy must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication.

Payment: Payment must be received before an ad can

be placed. We accept checks, cash, money orders and credit cards (Visa/Mastercard). Phone: 419-244-9859 E-Mail: classifieds@toledoparent.com REFUNDS: Sorry, NO REFUNDS given. MISPRINTS: Credit toward future ads.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

YOUR STUFF. $QGUHZ 0DUWLQ (OL RESTYLED. 0 n 0 n % n % n %

Mom’s Group! mom2mom meets @ Christ the Word Church on the 1st Wednesdays of each month, Sep. 4 through May 7. Check facebook.com/ Mom2momtoledo

Design consultation

Free Fatherhood Parenting Programs! Every Thursday, 6pm at Operation Reseed Ministry. Call to register 419-297-3530

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Help wAnted SERIOUS MOMS WANTED. We need serious & motivated people for expanding health and wellness industry. High speed internet/phone essential. Free online training. www.iworkforfreedom. com Kidz Watch Ltd. - Kidz Watch Ltd. - Now hiring a full time Preschool Teacher. Also have part time - days, evenings, and weekend positions available. Send resume to info@kidzwatch. net or visit DropInChildCare.com for info. FreeLance writers Needed. Send resume to editor@toledocitypaper.com

Services

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PET

Crochet Puppy Pads and Kitty Carpets $5 Book Worms 50cents 419-698-8522 Hemann Toys-used- for sale. Ronald Regan’s signature for sale. Contact Nikki 419-870-7166 DISH TV Retailer. Starting at $19.99/month (for 12 mos.) & High Speed Internet starting at $14.95/ month (where available.) SAVE! Ask About SAME DAY Installation! CALL Now! 1-800-281-4970

Education EVENTS

Join Mom’s Meet! A community of moms sharing thoughts on raising healthy families and living green. Sample organic products. 419-376-6690.

lessons

IN HOME PIANO LESSONS for 6yrAdult. Degreed Instructor, 30 years of experience. $15/half hour lesson. Call Rob 419-514-5321

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HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA FROM HOME. 6 - 8 weeks. ACCREDITED. Get a Diploma. Get a Job! No Computer Needed. Free Brochure 1-800-2648330 Benjamin Franklin High School www.diplomafromhome.com

Wellness Canada Drug Center is your choice for safe and affordable medications. Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90 percent on all your medication needs. Call today 1-800-254-4073, for $10.00 off your first prescription and free shipping.

Adoption A childless married couple seeks to adopt. Will be full-time mom and devoted dad. Financial security. Expenses paid. Call/text. Patricia & Adam. 1-800-790-5260.

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