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FREE juLY 2012

Floatie free p14 Conquering the deep end

Book smart

Findlay's new literacy coalition p15

The latest scoop

p16

Dietsch Brothers celebrate 75 years

p 10

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M AT E R N I T Y A N D B A B Y G U I D E

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• July 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Adams Street Publishing Co.

Volume 2 • Issue 7

July 2012 www.findlayfamily.com

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs: cjacobs@findlayfamily.com

Co-Publisher/CFO

Mark I. Jacobs: mjacobs@findlayfamily.com

Editorial Editor

Alia Orra: editor@findlayfamily.com Scott Recker: scott@findlayfamily.com

Staff Writer

Matt Desmond: mattd@findlayfamily.com

Calendar

Julian Garcia: calendar@findlayfamily.com

Contributing Writers

Rose Roccisano Barto, Mary Helen Darah, Sharon Gittleman, Kristen Gibson

Art/Production Art Director

Kristi Polus: kristi@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Graphic Design

Brittney Koehl: adsin@findlayfamily.com Jake Ziolkowski: jake@adamsstreetpublishing.com Sarah Baird: production@adamsstreetpublishing.com Alex Beat: abeat@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Advertising

departments

4 5 7 8 17

19

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

&

exceptional families calendar — compiled by Julian Garcia

marketplace

Sales Manager

Account Executive

Customer Service Rep

Shannon Reiter: sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Classified Sales

classifieds@findlayfamily.com

Administration Accounting

Robin Armstrong: rarmstrong@findlayfamily.com

Interns

Marisa Rubin: mrubin@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Advertising/General Info: For advertising and general information, call (419) 244-9859 or fax (419) 244-9871. E-mail ads to adsin@findlayfamily.com Findlay Area Family subscriptions are available by mail for $28 per year at Findlay Area Family, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, OH 43604.

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.

Entire contents © 2012 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

Audited by

p 10

M AT E R N I T Y A N D B A B Y G U I D E

Aubrey Hornsby: ahornsby@adamsstreetpublishing.com Joe Baker: jbaker@findlayfamily.com

feature

commentary 14 family planet

Conquering the swimming pool

Getting the little one’s feet wet, minus the floating devices — by Rose Roccisano Barto

15 parent profile

Photo by Amy Cook Photography, LLC, North Baltimore. www.amycookphotos.com

Avalyn Cook, 7 weeks old, of North Baltimore, OH.

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

Book Smart

Jeff Winkle is thrilled to encourage new readers — by Sharon Gittleman

16 food fight

Vanilla ice

Dietsch Brothers scoops ice cream with a sprinkle of history — by Rose Roccisano Barto

Brought to you by the publishers of:

Toledo Area Parent News Winner of 28 awards for design and editorial content General Excellence Best Commentary Best Personal Commentary

In-Depth Reporting Best Overall Writing Best Cover Photo Best Supplement Design

Correction

In our June 2012 issue’s Family Favorites, the address for Top Dentist/ Orthodontist McComb Family Dental was incorrect. The correct address is 269 Park Drive South, McComb.

we want to hear from you!

Findlay Area Family

editor@findlayfamily.com 419-244-9859

www.findlayfamily.com • July 2012 •

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communitysnapshots

Birthday (cow)boy

AJ turned six on Saturday and he celebrated at Texas Roadhouse in Findlay. He wanted to dress like a “real cowboy” for his birthday.

Studio 1 Dance Co.

Future stars of the stage took a break from their dance rehearsal to pose for the cameras.

Skyler Howard, 5 and Katelyn Rose, 6

Mara Sansalone, 14 and Cheyanne Ogborn, 13

AJ Iliff, 6, Findlay

SNAP IT. SEND IT. Haylee Dukes 10, Kelsey Schindeldecker 8, Gracie DeLong 9, Mara Sansalone 14, Elizabeth Orley, Cheyanne Ogborn 12, Brooklynn Zahler 10, Caitlin Smith 9, Ashley Hughes 9, Trinity Sprouse 9, Bella Carroccio 6, Sophia Powell 4, Bethany Wise 8, Laine Shenise 9, Jalyss Fisher 9, Katelyn Rose 6, Skyler Howard 5,

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• July 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Send us your photos from what is going on in the community! Send your pics to:

production@adamsstreetpublishing.com

An open book

Free-for-all fun Kids Fest turns Thursday, July 19 into a free, day-long event celebrating all the things children enjoy. The festival is split into three areas of activities — the Big Oaks fun includes a fire truck, representatives from the Toledo Zoo, inflatables, and face painting, while the Lake Front activities involve meeting Derrick the Oiler. At Oxbow Bend, kids can play in the sports zone and have fun with University of Findlay-sponsored athletic activities, along with train rides.

Parents and kids alike can then refuel with hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream, snacks and drinks. 2-8pm. Riverbend Recreational Area, 16618 TR 208. 419-422-3412. www.artspartnership.com. —AR

Lovers of childrens' literature should start getting excited, as the University of Findlay's Mazza Museum presents its annual Summer Conference.

The Museum has one of the nation's premier collections of children's book art, but its mission extends well beyond simply displaying it. Mazza's conferences bring in scholars, authors and artists from all over, and are a golden Mazza gives learners a opportunity for teachers, librarians, parents and anyone chance to hear from kid lit veterans interested in the timeless art of writing for children. This year's conference features a diverse lineup of luminaries like Bruce Degan, creator of the popular Magic School Bus series, Ohio author Andrea Chang and awardwinning artist David Diaz. There's even a marquee name — blockbuster mystery novelist Mary Higgins Clark happens to write the occasional children's book, and she'll be on hand, too, along with her collaborator, the excellent illustrator Wendell Minor. In addition to the formal presentations, there are small-group sessions that give attendees unique access to the experts in the field, as well as informal Q&A sessions with plenty of time for autographing.

Cost is $225 for all five days, $65 for one day.

July 16-20. 1000 N. Main St. 419-434-4560. www.findlay.edu. —MD

www.findlayfamily.com • July 2012 •

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Now enrolling for summer!

Infants, toddlers and preschoolers.

Open Monday-Friday 6:00am to 6:00pm.

15100 Birchaven Lane Findlay, OH 45840 419-425-3049

www.mackliniginstitute.org

Marilyn’s Lifelong Educational Center “Offering quality childcare and the benefits of daily intergenerational interactions!”

Vanlue Festival-goers get dirty at the annual volleyball game

Muddy summer fun at Vanlue

and enter for a chance to win free goodies

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• July 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

What better way to show off your family’s competitive spirit than a mud volleyball game? The ultimate in slippery summer fun is one of the main events at the annual Vanlue Festival, two days of amusement that will kick-off at 6:30 pm Friday, July 27 with a grand parade. The comically messy volleyball game played in the mud starts bright and early Saturday, July 28 at 9 am. For those who’ve worked up an appetite, the Vanlue Fire Department and Vanlue Christ Methodist Church will again host the Firemen’s BBQ chicken dinner on Saturday from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. There will be music, rides, games, karaoke, face painting and corn hole tournaments for those who want to have fun without creating a lot of extra laundry. Teams must register for mud volleyball by July 27. All proceeds benefit the village park.

July 27-28. Vanlue Community Park. 419-957-5955. facebook.com/vanluefest. —AR

A new tastemaker

Tara Hughes has already lived a long life in the culinary world, and she's lived all over the area. But here in Findlay, she's taking it to the next level — and she couldn't be happier.

The founder and owner of Taste by Tara, a full-service catering company that's gaining steam, Hughes has had a 25-year career in food service — in the healthcare industry, at Archbold's Sauder Village and at the University of Findlay. She's done her own catering on the side for a decade now, but has expanded Taste by Tara into a full-time job over the past year.

She's equipped to handle largescale events like weddings, graduations and corporate events, providing everything from appetizers to fully-decorated desserts in a variety of styles — and presented in style. But she's particularly proud of her in-home meal service, including her "Four Meals for $40" special. She'll prepare food right in customers' homes, for them to eat on the spot or save for later — a godsend for busy families.

"One thing that's big to me," she says, "is to get families together and bring them back to the table to talk." That drive to help others was also apparent in her "Mittens to Mittens" program last winter — customers who donated mittens for the needy received cut-out cookies in the shape of mittens. She gave away some 500 pairs of mittens, and hopes to repeat that success next winter. "I'm really pleased with the way Findlay has accepted me," she says. 136 Midland Ave. 419-890-9699.

Photos by Kate Cherry Photography

Compiled By Rose Roccisano Barto

Horsing around

A horse is just a horse, of course — unless it is named Kit-Kat or Mr. Bubbles.

In those cases, a horse is much more than a utilitarian farm animal. It becomes a friend and a way for children to learn a new skill while having fun. That’s the mission of Happy Kidz, a new horseback riding camp run by Heather Van Giesen at Shady Pine Stables, 19030 CR 7 in Findlay.

Van Giesen, who holds a bachelor’s degree in English equestrian studies from the University of Findlay, started her business in the late spring and will hold day camps all summer long. Aimed primarily at children ages 5 through 15, the camps provide crafts, games and a chance to ride one of two ponies.

Kit-Kat is a large mare, while Mr. Bubbles is a small Shetland pony.

“They love kids, and they are very gentle,” says Van Giesen, who adds that horses and kids are a natural fit. Camps cost $150 for a week, 9am to 3pm weekdays. Space is limited to allow each child plenty of riding time.

Van Giesen also plans to host birthday parties, special events for schools and other groups, as well as private riding lessons. The facility has both an indoor and outdoor ring, and a heated indoor lounge, for year-round enjoyment.

For more information about the camps or other activities, call Van Giesen at 419-306-6890.

www.findlayfamily.com • July 2012 •

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Advertorial

8 */ " Ê v ÀÊ«>Ài ÌÃÊ vÊV `Ài ÊÜ Ì ÊëiV > Ê ii`Ã

By Dr. Larry Schmidbauer

Give me a C!

This summer, special needs kids ages 4 and up will have something to cheer about. Starting in August, Findlay Elite Gymnastics and Cheer will host an open-gym activity allowing kids with special needs to learn basic cheer skills from tumbling to jumping. “It’s truly an amazing situation, and takes you out of the element of win, win, win — just getting the kids to participate,” says Traci Dunn, co-director of the cheer program.

With a uniform consisting of shorts and a t-shirt, the cheer squad will potentially be participating in the Findlay High School homecoming parade, an alumni basketball game, American Cheer Power Competition in Columbus, the Mindy Justice Cheer Extravaganza and Findlay High School Dance Competition. Dunn hopes the performances and competitions will help special needs children gain confidence and social skills.

“We want to start with smaller, low-key competitions before moving on to national competitions,” Dunn says. The monthly fee for the cheer squad will be $40; summer gymnastics classes are $5. Registration forms can be filled out on class days. Findlay Elite Gymnastics and Cheer, 610 3rd St., Findlay. July 12 and July 26.

6-7pm. 419-425-9765. www.findlayelite.com. —AR

Still need a summer camp guide? Check ours out!

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What did you say?

Why infant hearing screenings are important

• July 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

One of the first tests your newborn receives in the hospital is a hearing test. Why? One child in about every 1,000 born will have a hearing loss at birth. We know from experience and research that if that child's loss is identified and treated within the first 6 to 10 months, their speech/ language development and cognitive development will be generally normal. Years ago, before the Universal Newborn Hearing Screening Program was put in place we would often not identify these children until about three or four years old. Children identified this late would never catch up to their peers in speech/language or cognitive skills even with the absolute best interventions.

So what is this test of hearing? Thanks to research done in England by David Kemp, a physicist, and a subsequent clinical version of the test equipment he developed, we now have the ability to test the function of the inner ear nerve without the need for a behavioral response from the person tested. Infants to senior citizens with normal hearing emit a sound from the inner ear when the specific nerve endings fire to send an impulse to the brain. Kemp discovered this sound and devised a way to insert a small microphone and signal generator into the ear canal to elicit and measure the otoacoustic emission (OAE). So, the OAE tells us that the part of the inner ear that needs to work in order for us to hear is indeed functioning — based on extensive research experience to develop this test, we then imply that the person is hearing.

Every infant receives this test prior to discharge. It is important to understand what the results tell you. If the infant passes, it means that at least three of four or five frequencies (high frequencies, in the speech sound range) tested were able to show an emission. This means that the nerve is working and, at best, hearing in this range of pitch is normal and, at

worst, there may be a mild hearing loss.

If the infant fails it means that the OAE cannot be detected. This means, at worst, there is some degree of hearing loss in this range of pitch and further testing is needed. At best, the failure can mean that the ear canal or middle ear is blocked by debris or fluid and the emission, though present, cannot be detected by the equipment, so re-testing within the next month is recommended.

Certainly if there is a history of problems during pregnancy for the newborn or there is a history of hearing loss in the family, this, along with the results of the screening, will dictate recommendations for follow-up. All infants that fail at the hospital but then pass at our office receive a recommendation for a recheck at about nine months old. There are things in early childhood that can cause hearing loss like high fevers or viruses. By rechecking at nine months of age or so we can get an idea how the hearing levels are faring, right about the time expressive speech will be starting.

Dr. Schmidbauer is an audiologist serving patients in Findlay and the surrounding areas at Professional Hearing Care locations at 1913 S. Main St. and 716 W. Market St., Tiffin. 877-6647758. professionalhearingtiffin.com

Advertorial

Conquering post-baby body Getting back to the gym takes some planning

By Dr. Chris Lofquist

Pregnant workout to no workouts to post-baby workouts Ok, ok, I know this advice would be much better coming from someone who actually had a baby, but I have been blessed to assist my wife in this transition over the past year. Obviously the key in all of this is to follow your physician’s advice, but here are some pointers that they might not have time to share to make that transition easier.

Start where you are What I mean is that if you haven’t exercised in months, don’t be a gym hero the first week back. If you never exercised before, now is a great time to start. Make sure you are in shape to start exercising though — see your family physician, or another physician, to qualify you for the activities you want to participate in. Any activity is better than no activity, and there is always time available to walk around the block at the bare minimum.

Set realistic goals This is very important — you need to be realistic with what you are aiming to accomplish. If it is to lose 50 pounds, then plan to do it over 6 to 12 months, not for the class reunion next month. The excess baby weight will come off if you are diligent about tracking your nutrition and activity.

Staying on course isn’t easy but there is help!

By and large, the biggest problem with why new workout plans fail is because they are a house of cards to begin with.

No framework is set up for success, and this makes it all too easy for these changes to fall by the wayside before you’re celebrating your baby’s 6-month birthday. Sometimes it is as easy as finding someone else to hold you accountable, whether it’s a spouse, friend, co-worker or even the family dog. It is much more difficult to skip out on a workout when you know someone else is expecting you. If you have a tough time meshing schedules with the new baby and with someone, or have a limited time that changes from day to day, you just have to be sure you’re set

for that time when it comes. Be sure you have your workout clothes ready to go.

It makes it harder to get lazy when you have already taken the time to pack your gym bag for the next workout. Getting in a pattern and getting to know the other gym goers at the time you work out every day helps to keep you involved too. If you don’t have a standing babysitter, most of the gyms in Findlay like the YMCA and The Gym by Jamie have childcare available while you get your workout in. If you need more in-depth information on making this transition, I’m more than happy to provide you with the resources to get the results you want to see.

Dr. Chris Lofquist is a board-certified chiropractic physician with a master’s degree in sport and exercise rehabilitation. He is also a certified athletic trainer, full body certified in Active Release Technique, a movement-based soft tissue technique. Beyond his chiropractic and soft tissue treatment practice he also offers Titleist Performance Institute golf fitness assessments. He practices at Flag City Sport & Spine/Trenton Chiropractic and Rehab on Trenton Avenue in Findlay.

643 Trenton Avenue Findlay, OH 45840 419-427-6300 www.trentonchiropracticandrehab.com

STAY IN THE GAME! Dr. Chris Lofquist at Trenton Chiropractic and Rehab treats a range of aches and pains including: v Back Pain v Headaches v Plantar Fasciitis v Tennis/Golfers Elbow

v Rotator Cuff Syndrome v Shin Splints v IT Band Tendinosis v Strains and Sprains

Don’t wait until surgery is your only option . . . get it fixed now!

Trenton Chiropractic

Chris Lofquist DC, MSc, ATC, ART ™

“Elimi nating the restrictions that keep you from your best Function.”

643 Trenton Avenue Findlay, OH 45840

P 419-427-6300 E flagcitysports@gmail.com

www.findlayfamily.com • July 2012 •

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M A T E R N I T Y

A N D

B A B Y

G U I D E

Bringing up baby

By Kristen Gibson

&

Whoever thought of babies arriving via storks was kidding himself.

Every parent (or expectant parent) knows the experience is so much more wondrous, complex, intense, ecstatic, tender and sleep-depriving than that.

From the waving of the home pregnancy test wand to the moment that tiny person who’s captured your heart arrives, it’s a dizzyingly happy time.

And as any new mom or dad knows, there are plenty of people with an opinion on how to handle it. (Including us!) We let the experts weigh in on all things baby in our Findlay Area Family 2012 Maternity and Baby Guide.

A thousand words

Some of Findlay’s best children’s photographers share their tips on making every shot count.

Let the sun shine in

Window light is your best natural light source at home. Northern exposure gets the best results, but any will work. Just make sure the light isn’t too harsh.

The best times of day for outdoor photos are morning and evening when the light is soft and shadows are reduced.

— Susan Schetter, photographer, www.inspiringimagesbysusan.com

“Window light is your best natural light source at home.”

Go au natural

“You will want to remember how teeny tiny your baby once was, so consider photographing your baby in minimal clothing. Clothes often times do not fit the baby properly, and they can appear overshadowed by the clothing in photographs.”

— Tiffany Levenhagen, photographer, levenhagenphotography.blogspot.com

“You will want to remember how teeny tiny your baby once was, so consider photographing your baby in minimal clothing.”

An early start

“Photograph [your] infant at four to ten days old for newborn sessions.

By ten days old, babies are starting to get bigger, less curly, sleep lighter, stay awake longer, and things such as baby acne start to develop.”

— Amy Cook, photographer, www.amycookphotos.com

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• July 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Break a sweat

“I keep my home studio nice and toasty while waiting for the newborn session to start. It is nearly 90 degrees in my house when I am photographing a newborn!”

—Tiffany Levenhagen, photographer, levenhagenphotography.blogspot.com

M A T E R N I T Y

A N D

B A B Y

G U I D E

More expert photographers’ tips on capturing every moment Capturing the first moments

“I just had my third child. For the first time, I considered hiring a birth photographer and I am SO glad I did! Every time I look back on those images, I remember that day and I cry — in a good way. It’s something I would recommend to all interested moms. It’s so magical.”

— Amy Cook, photographer, www.amycookphotos.com

“Every time I look back on those images, I remember that day and I cry — in a good way.”

Buying the right camera

A good point-and-shoot camera for rookie photogs is the Canon G12 or G13. If you’re in the market for a fancier DSLR camera, make sure to buy “at least one good 50 mm, or even 34 mm, lens.”

—Amy Cook, photographer, www.amycookphotos.com

Point and shoot

“[Don’t] worry so much about the perfect posed shot, and just SHOOT. Cell phone apps like Instagram make it easy to document your child and even add a pretty filter, and with very little effort, you have a little keepsake. Websites like Printstagr.am (yes that’s correct, type it in the browser and see!) let you print your Instagram photos; little Polaroid prints, tiny books, or a huge collage poster.”

“[Don’t] worry so much about the perfect posed shot, and just SHOOT.”

—Amy Cook, photographer, www.amycookphotos.com

—Amy Cook, photographer, www.amycookphotos.com

www.findlayfamily.com • July 2012 •

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zz

Got milk?

?

M AT E R N I T Y A N D B A B Y G U I D E

Tips and advice for surviving those first few weary weeks

Become bosom buddies

Breastfed babies are very portable and can often be fed peacefully at night and put quickly back to bed. How often and how long you need to nurse depends on a mother’s storage capacity and skin elasticity. Be responsive to baby’s hunger cues, especially in the first three days. “If the baby wants to suck on something, let it be mom,” says Tricia Phillips, international board certified lactation consultant.

Latch-on is a lot easier

Try to stimulate baby a little even during nighttime feedings to ensure they get enough milk. Your breast will feel soft and squishy if baby did a good job emptying the milk. If they did, you can switch sides and continue to nurse if the baby’s still hungry.

If you want to stay awake

Consult your smart phone. You can get really good at Words with Friends and catch up on Twitter if you do it right. Just be cautious it doesn’t take all your attention — one of the biggest reasons to nurse is mom and baby bonding time. Falling asleep can be dangerous, so do your best to keep awake.

What’s

History, heritage and a little bit of whimsy.

These Findlay area families share how they came to name their children.

By Rose Roccisano Barto

Name: Felicity

—Felix Goebel-Komala, Findlay

Sydney Kathleen, 7 and Christopher Harrison, 9

Name:

“We chose Sydney’s name because Michael’s grandmother is from Australia, and we wanted to honor her and her heritage in some way.

Christopher’s middle name is Harrison which is my Grandfather Parmelee, my dad, and my brother’s middle name. It was our way to give him a connection to the strong men in my family.”

Any breast milk is better than none. The AAP recommends exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months old. Even if someone has chosen to formula feed their baby, they have the opportunity to give the baby milk expressed through the engorgement process. You can nurse here and there to maintain comfort. Always nurse or give milk before food the first year of baby’s life.

Good news for nursing moms, sort of. Sagging breasts are a result of pregnancy. Breast changes happen during the pregnancy as you establish new ductile work with every pregnancy. So if you always want to have perky breasts, never ever get pregnant, says international board certified lactation consultant Tricia Phillips.

Marie

“We were thinking of some variation on our names (Felix, Mary) but wanted to see what she would be named (for those who don’t know, we adopted our daughter from China). When we got her given Chinese name — Feng Feng — her name became Felicity and her middle baptismal name Marie, deriving from both her Chinese name and both our first names.”

Give what you can

Sad State of Sagging Breasts

Name

In A

—Becky Burrier, Findlay

Name: Victoria Ryann, 11, Elizabeth McKenna, 7 and Andrew Michael, 5

“We were going to name Tori Rory ... but decided it was too hard to say .... and we wanted a big name that we could put some power behind when we yelled, so Victoria it was! As in, ‘VIC-TORI-A!!!’ Ellie was conceived right after her greatgrandpa Kenneth died so we wanted to honor him in her name, so she was named Elizabeth McKenna. When pregnant with baby three, we realized we had a Victoria and an Elizabeth, so without trying, we were soundly working our way through British royalty — when I started to push I said ‘Here comes Margaret!’ We were quite pleased to meet Andrew!”

—Jennifer Denike, Findlay

Sharing milk

Communal milk banks are generally used in the U.S., when babies have a condition requiring breast milk. Formula is a healthy alternative in the states because we have relatively safe drinking water to mix with formula. The Mother’s Milk Bank of Ohio in Columbus offers community milk.

“Get through the first week(s) and it will be smooth sailing.”

—Carrie Brodman, Findlay mom

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• July 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Names:

Jordan, 15, and Jimmy, 11

“Terri named Jordan, but despite our last name, she wasn’t thinking of Amman, Jordan when she did it. Jimmy is named after my godfather and Terri’s grandpa.”

—Dave Amann, Findlay

www.findlayfamily.com • July 2012 •

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win

want to

a chance to have

expert children's photographer, capture your child's precious moments on camera?

Post your worst, wackiest or weirdest baby pictures gone wrong (from any year!) on Findlay Area Family's Facebook page. The three Findlay reader whose photos earn the most "likes" will win a free photo session worth $400 with Amy Cook herself!

Time Warner Cable’s KidsFest at Riverbend Join us for a fun-filled, action packed day, full of activities for your whole family to enjoy.

Thursday, July 19, 2012 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm Riverbend Recreation Area Free Event Sponsors: Time Warner Cable, Hancock Park District, Hancock County Convention and Visitors Bureau

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Post your photos to Facebook.com/FindlayAreaFamily by August 1, 2012 — we'll contact the winner via Facebook on September 4, 2012. (Plenty of time to harass your friends for likes!)

• July 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Conquering the swimming pool Getting the little one's feet wet, minus the floating devices

By Rose Roccisano Barto When my youngest daughter was a toddler, we took a swimming class together.

She looked so cute in her ruffled pink swimsuit with little purple sharks. During the car ride to the pool, she chatted excitedly about learning to swim. That is, until she saw the pool.

No way was she getting in without a lot of tears. It took most of the class to coax her into letting me carry her into the pool. I didn’t even need to hold her.

She maintained a death grip around my neck with her little arms the entire time.

She also kept up a chant of “I want to go home” in my ear.

Did we blow bubbles in the water together, like the cover of the brochure? No way. Did she doggie paddle a few inches away and then come back, excited about her new-found skill? Nope. Did she happily hang on to a floatie while I pulled her around the pool? Yeah, right.

She didn’t learn to swim that day, or for several years after. She was perfectly happy to splash in the blow-up kidding pool in the backyard or run through the sprinkler. She had no interest in big-girl swimming. That was okay by me, so I backed off on getting her in the water past her knees.

As it turns out, being patient was just the right thing to do. While some kids do indeed take to water like little ducks, some just don’t. Whether due to nerves, fear or a combination, some children will not go near the water. But swimming is an important skill for children to master for safety’s sake – according to the Centers for Disease Control, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death in children under age 14.

With summer upon us, complete with pool parties and lake trips, it’s more important than ever to provide children with swimming skills. It doesn’t have to be a tearful journey, however. In addition to towels, goggles and swimsuits, many children need an extra helping of patience from their parents in order to swim. Forget the old-fashioned – and potentially cruel and dangerous – method of throwing the kids in the water and having them figure it out. Whether through classes, coaches or just common sense, any kid can learn how to swim.

George Leatherman, the aquatics director for the Hancock County chapter of the American Red Cross, says the biggest hurdle many children face is putting their faces in the water. He suggested buying an inexpensive pair of goggles for the child to wear.

It took a little coaxing, but Findlay mom Rose Roccisano Barto’s daughter eventually made it into the water!

“Maybe you have a toy under the water they can see, and then it becomes exciting and fun instead of scary,” he says. “Once kids can break through putting their faces in the water, the arms and legs come together and they can learn to swim.”

Parents know if their children will learn better from them or someone else.

Even Leatherman doesn’t teach his small children how to swim, because they see him as Daddy and not as an instructor.

The Red Cross offers swimming classes every summer in Findlay and Hancock County. For more information, visit www.hancockredcross.org. Leatherman also offers classes separately — for more information on Leatherman’s lessons, visit www.amaquatic.com.

You really need to go at the kid’s pace,” says Leatherman. “You just keep trying. But you don’t want to shove it down their throats, or else they won’t want to get in the water at all.”

We kept trying with my youngest daughter. Eventually, she ventured further and further on her own. Once we joined a local pool and were there every day, she gained enough confidence to leave the side of the pool and join in the fun. Now, she never wants to go home.

Book smart

Jeff Winkle is thrilled to encourage new readers

By Sharon Gittleman

20 years in the book business taught Jeff Winkle that reading is “good for the soul.”

(Right) Findlay-Hancock County Public Library Trustee Jerry Casey and State Librarian Beverly Cain with Winkle.

One of life’s great pleasures is settling in with your little one with a book in hand, treasuring a journey of adventure to another time and place.

However, that simple joy isn’t one everyone can enjoy. Nearly 8 percent of Hancock County residents have a problem with literacy.

“It’s not necessarily that they can’t read, but they may not be able to read at a level that lets them understand instructions from a doctor or at work, or understand how to operate a computer,” said Jeff Winkle, director of the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library.

Winkle helped organize the newlyformed group Literacy Coalition of Hancock County, working along with Findlay City and Hancock County Schools, the University of Findlay, Owens Community College, Read for L.I.F.E. (a local literacy mentoring group), the library and others to spearhead efforts to improve literacy in the area.

“Part of what we are doing is creating a collaboration network so all our efforts are as efficient as they can be,” he said.

It’s shocking to think that anyone could have a problem with literacy in Findlay. They are not alone.

“88 percent of children who have difficulty reading at the end of grade one display similar difficulties at the end of the grade four. 75 percent of students who are poor readers at the end of grade three will remain so in high school,” he said.

“Statistics show children of poor readers are far more likely to be poor readers. “ Recently, the literacy group gathered in a daylong summit to plot their course.

“We’re looking to carve out a pre-k early literacy center,” Winkle said.

What can you do to make sure this won’t be a problem in your own home?

“Read to your child every day. There is nothing [more] important,” he said.

It’s advice Winkle and his wife, a fellow librarian, followed with their own children when they were small.

“We’re a book family,” he said. “My daughters, long before they could read, would sit and hold books and turn the pages.”

Winkle, who ran bookstore Winkle’s Open Book for 20 years, is a fan of hardboiled mysteries, especially the ones that feature a knight-in-shining-armor hero living in a world where good triumphs over evil.

Reading makes you happier, he said.

“It’s good for the mind and makes you sharp but its also good for the soul.

It’s peaceful and relaxing.” Along with reading books to your kids, Winkle advises adults to take advantage of every moment that comes your way to inspire your youngsters.

“You can be going through the supermarket and teach kids letters of the alphabet from cereal boxes,” he said.

Winkle hopes residents will take some time to volunteer to help with the coalition’s literacy efforts.

For information about participating in the literacy effort, visit www.hancockliteracy.org. Find out more about the library at www.findlaylibrary.org or call 419-422-1712.

www.findlayfamily.com • July 2012 •

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THE SHORT COURSE Kid-friendly Of course

Vanilla ice

Dietsch Brothers scoops ice cream with a sprinkle of history By Rose Roccisano Barto

Dietsch Brothers East Store, 1217 Tiffin Ave. 419-423-3221 Mon. thru Sat., 11am-9:30pm Sun. 1-9pm

Main Store, 400 W. Main Cross St. 419-422-4474 Tues. thru Fri. 9am-9pm Sat. 10am-9pm Sun. 12-5pm Closed Mon. www.dietschs.com Most dinners out we like to sneak a peek at the dessert menu, knowing it will be a sweet treat at the end of our meal.

But at Dietsch Brothers, dessert comes first. In fact, Findlay’s first family of confections has nothing but dessert on the The Dietsch Brothers second-generation owners Rick, Jeff and Tom celebrate 75 years of sweetly satisfying service menu. As Dietsch Brothers celpies ($7.95). Dietsch Brothers also sells a type of cone — including wafer, sugar ebrates its 75th anniversary, we decided ice cream by the half gallon — an esor waffle — wrapped in an American to take a look at the ice cream, chocopecially nice seasonal choice during the flag paper wrapper.

Also in the mix are lates, candy and other delicacies that late spring and early summer is the waspecialty ice cream bars, ice cream cakes have made Dietsch Brothers synonytermelon sherbet ($5.95). and pies, and dips. And don’t forget the mous with delicious.

Our sweet treats all got thumbs — or other half of the room, filled with chocoIn 1937, the original brothers bought yums — up. And despite the fact that the late covered pretzels, dozens of candy a local bakery and began producing fine Dietsch name includes the word “diet,” varieties and mixed nuts. chocolates and ice cream using family you are probably better off not thinking On the day we tried the ice cream, recipes. The flagship store, at 400 W. Main in terms of fat grams or calories. A stop I ordered a scoop of strawberry cheeseCross, is the original location from long at Dietsch’s is not the time to think about cake ice cream.

My oldest had a scoop ago. In 1955 they opened their east side calorie counting — and we didn’t. of orange sherbet, and my youngest had store at 1217 Tiffin Ave. Over the years In celebration of their 75 year anmint chocolate chip. For huge scoops, the business has been known for goodies niversary, Dietsch Brothers is selling a certainly shareable size, the cost is $1.95 that have eventually spanned the globe cookbook called Great Confectioners … each. My husband, who maintains that — more than one adoptive family (ours and Cooks, Too! that offers family reciDietsch Brothers makes the best milkincluded) have brought Dietsch Brothers pes from appetizers through desserts. shakes he’s ever had, ordered a $3.70 candy with them to the U.S. embassy in It is available at both stores and online chocolate milkshake.

China as a taste of home. (www.dietschs.com) for $9.95, and a There was absolute silence as we At both locations, however, the probportion of the proceeds go to the United enjoyed our treats in the old-fashioned lem is the same: What to order? They Way of Hancock County and Cancer ice cream parlor. We also got a box of don’t make it easy. There are more than Patient Services. Also available from chocolate covered pretzels ($7.95) to 30 hard ice cream flavors to choose from, the civic-minded business are Findlay take home, as well as salt water taffy and another 27 that rotate as monthly or bicentennial items including buttons ($3.95) and some individual ice cream seasonal flavors. You also have to choose and t-shirts.

Saddle Up! HAPPY KIDZ PONY CLUB

Pony Day Camp Kids Riding Lessons Birthday Parties

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GFEP :CL9

Shady Pine Stables Call Heather at 419-306-6890 16

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• July 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

To avoid wait Consider off-hours Noise level Just right Bathroom amenities Fine High Chairs Yes Got Milk Do milkshakes count?

Kid’s menu? Ice cream and candy for dinner Anything healthy for the kids?

It’s and ice cream and candy emporium — no carrots Food allergy concerns? The products are made in a facility which includes peanuts, soybeans, milk, eggs, tree nuts and wheat

Great Confectioners ... and Cooks Too! is the cookbook celebrating the 75th anniversary of Dietsch Brothers, from appetizers to desserts. Here is one tempting treat, from original owner Johnny Dietsch.

—RB

Johnny's Southern Pecan Pie

1/2 cup sugar 1 cup dark corn or maple syrup 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon flour 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 Tablespoon melted oleo 1 1/4 cup pecan halves or pieces 1 unbaked 9-inch pastry shell Beat together sugar, syrup, salt, flour and eggs. Add vanilla, oleo and pecans. Pour into shell. Turn rounded side of pecans up, so top will look smooth. Bake in slow oven, 300 degrees, for about 1 hour or until the filling is just set. At this temperature pie crust cooks without browning. To brown crust slightly, brush edges with a little undiluted evaporated milk before baking.

Cook before cutting. This pie can be baked a day ahead and the crust will not become soggy.

So it’s easy to satisfy your sweet tooth by trying the ice cream and candy that helped make Findlay famous. In fact, the hardest part about walking into Dietsch Brothers is deciding which treat to eat!

{July 2012} All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation, and limited size.

Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

1 SUNDAY Caboose Tour - You may be lucky enough to remember seeing cabooses on the end of the train cars, but have you ever had the chance to take a look inside?

Come look inside the 1920s era B&O caboose. This is where brakemen once ate and slept as they criss-crossed the country. 1-4pm. $1 for children 12 and under/$2 adult. Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation, Inc., 11600 County Rd. 99.

419-423-2295. www.nworrp.org

3 TUESDAY Flag City Fireworks - Celebrate the holiday with food, music, fun, and fireworks. Bring your blanket or lawn chairs to enjoy the evenings festivities. 4-11pm.

Hancock County Fairgrounds, 1017 E. Sanduscky St. 419-429-7344. www.hancockfairgrounds.com

4 WEDNESDAY 4th of July Celebration - Bring the family out to Tffin to celebrate our nation’s independence! Enjoy swimming pool games, corn hole tournaments, a pet parade, and of course fireworks! 1-10pm.

Fireworks start at 10pm. Tiffin Park & Recreation, 621 E. Market St., Tiffin.

419-448-5408. www.tiffinparks.com

Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebrate Independence Day at Ohio’s largest living-history village! Enjoy handcranked ice cream and old fashioned games while patriotic songs play on the reed organ. Sauder Village will host a U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony and a reading of the Gettysburg Address. 10am-5pm. Sauder Village, 22611 Ohio 2, Archbold.

419-446-2541. www.saudervillage.org July 4th Centennial: Party Like It’s 1876 - Experience the nation’s anniversary like never before. Big wheels will be turning at the Isaac Ludwig Mill, so stop in to see water power grind the finest flour in the county. Mingle with historic craftsmen, make your own craft or search through a straw stack for pennies. Board the canal boat to float back to the 1870s, and experience life along the Miami and Erie Canal. The boat departs the dock every hour. 12-4pm.

Providence Metropark, 13827 US 24 West, Grand Rapids. 419-407-9700. www.metroparkstoledo.com Independence Day 1813 - The 4th of July at Fort Meigs is celebrated with cannon firings, music and a day of leisure.

War of 1812 soldiers and civilians recreate the day through demonstrations, and hands-on activities for the children. The highlight of the day is the eighteen-gun National Salute accompanied by fife &

Wednesdays, July 4August 15

Riverside Summer Concert Series

For 61 years local volunteers and invited musicians have entertained the community with a free concert series down by the river. The Riverside Summer Concert Series continues this summer at the Allen P. Dudley Memorial Band Shell and Dick Daugherty Plaza at Riverside Park every Wednesday until August 15. Pack a picnic basket and bring your blankets and lawn chairs for a Findlay tradition the whole family will love. On July 3 enjoy a special Tuesday date with music by U.S. Army Field Band Jazz Ambassadors. The Millstream Singers perform on Independence Day. On July 11, the Findlay Civic Concert Band will present “St. Patty’s Day in July.” The Findlay Civic Concert Band is back on July 18 with “70 Years of Broadway,” featuring Brian Kleuter, saxophone soloist and on July 25 with “Flapper Skirts & Rumble Seats…Remembering the Roaring 20’s” featuring Rob Ciesluk, percussion soloist. 7:30-9pm. Free. Riverside Park, 231 McManness Ave. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com—JG

drum music starting at 2pm. A War of 1812 historical encampment, weapons demonstrations, and more take place throughout the day. Fort Meigs, 29100 W. River Rd., Perrysburg, 419-874-4121. www.fortmeigs.org

6 FRIDAY Tree Town Festival - Come to the forest for a weekend of fun, food, games, rides, contests, and more. Line the streets for the Friday Night Parade at 6:30pm.

Live entertainment both nights with fireworks Saturday night at 10:30pm.

Sunday morning enjoy a worship service. Proceeds go to the Jackson-Forest Ambulance District. Gormley Park, 499 S. Mary St., Forest. 419-273-2520. www.hardinohio.org

7 SATURDAY Flag City Parade - Celebrate Independence Day in downtown Findlay at the parade. The parade starts on Main Street and proceeds north to the Hancock County War Memorial. 11am-1pm.

Downtown Findlay. 419-294-7037. www.flagcityonline.com

Cont. on pg 18

www.findlayfamily.com • July 2012 •

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skills for a Show us your super coloring party chance to win a pizza ds! for you and nine of your frien Get creative with the picture below and send it to us with your name, phone number and e-mail on the back. We’ll choose the best or most creative and reward them with a voucher for a Stevie B’s Pizza Buffet pizza party!

Cut out and mail the hidden picture coloring sheet below to Findlay Area Family, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, OH 43604.

Cont. from pg 17 Jason Dennie - Dennie brings his acoustic repertoire to the Coffee Amici stage. 8pm. Coffee Amici, 328 S Main St. 419-423-7957. www.CoffeeAmici.com

13 FRIDAY Nations Baseball: Great Lakes Ultimate World Series - Competitive travel baseball teams ages 11-14 will be in town fighting for the championship.

Bring the family whole family to watch the event and enjoy America’s favorite past time. 3-10pm. Marathon Diamonds, 3430 N. Main St. www.findlaybaseball.com

14 SATURDAY Fire Cracker Weekend Open Horse Show - Bring the family down to the fairgrounds to watch horses and ponies of all ages compete in a horse show. Watch the Youth, PeeWee, Small Fry competition, and more. 8am-4pm. Hancock County Fairgrounds, 1017 E. Sanduscky St. 419429-7344. www.hancockfairgrounds.com Bill Phillips - Phillips performs traditional folk, bluegrass, gospel, and country blues.

8pm. Coffee Amici, 328 S Main St. 419-423-7957. www.CoffeeAmici.com

16 MONDAY Sharpie Tie-Dye - Bring a t-shirt, socks, or a pillowcase to tie-dye at the library. All other supplies will be provided. Grades 3-12. Registration required. 3-4pm.

Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway. 419-422-0638. www.findlaylibrary.org

17 TUESDAY Rock the Library - Put on your dancing shoes and get your groove on as you learn new dance moves. Some songs will be familiar, other songs will be new and exciting. Dress comfortable and be prepared to footloose. Grades 5-12.

Registration required. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway.

419-422-0638. www.findlaylibrary.org Beekeeping - Join Beekeeper, Dwight Wilson as he tells you the ins and outs of beekeeping and why bees are important. Participants are recommended to be ages six and up. No fee, but registration required by Friday, July 13. 7pm.

Oakwoods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Lane. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com

19 THURSDAY Annual Glass Heritage Festival Celebrate Fostoria’s long history of glass production. On Thursday, is the glass pageant, Friday, live entertainment and concessions, and come browse the car show and 5k run on Saturday. Check out Facebook for more information. ThursdayFriday, 5-11pm; Saturday, 10am-11pm.

Downtown Fostoria, 213 S. Main St., Fostoria. 419-422-9508.

Kids’ Fest - Enjoy this free event that celebrates being a kid. From Boonshaft Museum of Discovery to Ultrasound’s inflatable fun, kids of all ages will have fun. 2-8pm. Riverbend Recreation Area, 16618 Township Rd. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com 18

• July 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Fred Shafer - The dynamic Fred Shafer returns to the Amici stage. 8pm. Coffee Amici, 328 S Main St. 419-423-7957. www.CoffeeAmici.com

22 SUNDAY Seneca County Fair - Bring the family down to the 170th Seneca County fair for food, fun, and live entertainment. Watch a demolition derby, truck rodeo, or a tractor pull. Tickets $6. Go online for a full schedule of events. Seneca County Fairgrounds, 100 Hopewell Ave., Tiffin. 419-4477888. www.senecacountyfair.org

23 MONDAY Chalk It Up - Help the library decorate their sidewalks. Create fun and creative designs that everyone will see. 1-2pm.

Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway. 419-422-0638. www.findlaylibrary.org

24 TUESDAY Teen Movie - Come hang out at the library and watch a teen movie with friends, then do an activity related to the

25 WEDNESDAY Chicken Cluckers - Come to the library to make a chicken clucker craft. It’s a simple craft that can provide hours of entertainment. All ages welcome. 4pm-4:30pm. Arlington Branch Library, 232 N. Main, Arlington. 419-365-5755. www. findlaylibrary.org

27 FRIDAY Vanlue Festival - Come to the park for food, games, rides vendors, and fun.

On Friday, watch as they crown the king, queen, prince, and princess, and followup with a parade. On Saturday, watch mud volleyball, join in on a basketball tournament, and enjoy a BBQ dinner.

Friday, 6:30pm; Saturday, 8:30am-9pm.

Vanlue Community Park, John & Crawford St., Vanlue. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com

28 SATURDAY Melody Road - Bob and Mary Fry deliver a heartfelt performace as Melody Road. 8pm. Coffee Amici, 328 S Main St. 419-423-7957. www.CoffeeAmici.com ENTER YOUR EVENTS ONLINE @

FINDLAYFAMILY DOTCOM

MONDAYS

Story Time, Hear stories with songs.

For all ages.11:15-11:45am. Free.

Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org

TUESDAYS

Tales for Tots: Preschool Story Time, It’s all about them at this event.

Stories for tots are read.11am. Free.

Mazza Museum, University of Findlay, 1000 N. Main St. 419-422-8313. www.mazzamuseum.org Starflight First Grade Trail Starter, Camp Fire USA connects children and families with caring, trained adults in an intimate group atmosphere through our club programs. First and third Tuesdays.

3:30-4:30pm. $15. 733 Wyandot St. 419-422-5415. www.campfireusanwohio.com

marketplace ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE

HELP WANTED Freelance writers needed. Send resume

to: editor@findlayfamily.com

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-party’s use, noncommercial concerns and free services. Ads MUST be typed or neatly printed and MAILED, EMAILED, or DROPPED OFF to Findlay Area Family Classifieds by the15th of the month prior to publication.

Drivers needed to deliver Findlay Area

Family in Findlay and surrounding areas: Once a month, great pay. Send resume to distribution@findlayfamily.com

Line Classifieds: Only $10 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).

Mail or drop off:

Findlay Area Family Classifieds, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, Ohio 43604

Phone: 419-244-9859 Email: classifieds@findlayfamily.com Refunds: Sorry, NO REFUNDS given.

Misprints: Credit toward future ads.

Earn $28,000

EDUCATION ONE-ON-ONE TUTORING: 6th-12th grade

math, science, study skills; ACT/SAT/OGT test preparation. Mark, 419-358-5999

BUSINESSES DON’T MAKE A $1000 MISTAKE! Call Brian or Jim at Snyder’s Auto Mart 419-423-9303 www.snyderautomart.com

WEDNESDAYS

Toddler Art Zone, Includes a story, art project and music. For ages one to four.

11:30am-12:15pm. $5-$10. YMCA, Downtown Branch, 300 E. Lincoln St., 419-422-8249. www.findlayymca.org First and Second Grade Art Classes, Each month focuses on an element of design. Students will explore new art techniques and media. 4-5pm. $30 per month. Findlay Art League, 117 W. Crawford St. 419-422-7847. www.findlayartleague.com

ABC’s Wife Swap Magicians

Birthdays • Banquets t Schools • Scouts • More!

419-472-4333

www.AndrewMartinMagic.com See w Public Shows every week.

Andre ! i l E & Please call or email for details!

244.9859

Classic Movie Saturday - Bring the family to the library for a classic movie night. 9:30am-12:30pm. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway.

419-422-0638. www.findlaylibrary.org

movie. Teens must have parent permission to attend. Free tickets can be picked up at the children’s desk. Popcorn and pop is provided. 5:45-8pm. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway.

419-422-0638. www.findlaylibrary.org

419.

21 SATURDAY

to place your ad

THURSDAYS Jr. Teens in Action, This is for children grades six to eight. Curriculum is based on the Five Trails of Camp Fire USA. 5:30–6:30pm. Camp Fire USA, 305 W. Hardin St. 419-422-5415. www.campfireusa-nwohio.com

Just scan the code using your phone to join the list!

Join our e-mail list for THE BEST DAILY EVENTS!

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• July 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com