March 2019 - Findlay Family

FREE MARCH 2019

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V O T I N G is OPEN

Among The Few Local teen delays her entry into the realm of social media

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Giving them the best start

A Tradition of Music

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F​ HS Symphony Orchestra p11 developing lifelong skills

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VOTING OPENS MARCH 15TH!

orites

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2018

We want to hear from you!

Vote for your favorite local people, places and spaces in Fndlay Area Family’s annual Family Favorites.

Voting begins in March 15th.

V O T E ONLINE go to findlayfamily.com

They can’t win without you!

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• March 2019 • www.findlayfamily.com

Volume 9 • Issue 3 March 2019

GUIDE

Fami A​ Tradition of Music

MARCH 15 !

orites

Child Care & Preschool

yl Fav VOTING OPENS! TH 2018

VOTE for your favorite local people, places and spaces as Findlay Family’s annual Family Favorites.

FHS Symphony Orchestra developing lifelong skills

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departments findlay favorites

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#showandtell

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what’s briefly happening

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new kids

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tween the lines

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exceptional families

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parents night out 12 cultural connections 13 calendar 17 marketplace 19

commentary parent profile 14

Making Kids Feel Welcome

Jaime Shank serves families at Cedar Creek Church

by Jessica Kempf

mom fit 15

Healing Holistically

Celebration of Health Association takes natural approach to treatment

by Jessica Kempf

food fight 16

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go to findlayfamily.com

Online March

giveaway

When Your Child Doesn’t Like to Read

by Katy M. Clark

[Always online]

findlayfamily.com

Maternity & Baby Guide

e most read onlin s 1. Dunkin Return

to Findlay

2. Delicious Dine r

e th Food at nt ra au st Re Pilgrim ciding If Your De .

3 Tween or Teen Should Have a Cell Phone

​Strawbees is a creative construction kit that makes it possible to connect both straws and cardboard to each other to build anything from a tiny pixie to the biggest robot you dare to imagine. Creating with Strawbees is not only the best way to build and tell stories but also the most fun way to learn basic mechanics and physics. It’s a toy that is created for generations to play, problem solve and invent together. So put on your thinking hats and start building! One winner will receive a Strawbees Inventor Kit including 250 Strawbees as well as 150 extra rigid and colorful straws ($39.99).

Learn more at strawbees.com.

To win the The Strawbees kit, visit

findlayfamily.com and click on our Giveaway through March 15th.

On the cover

Beer Barrel Pizza and Grill

Oodles of Options for Every Appetite

by Betsey Watson Mascaro

Sophie Shuherk, 4

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

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

We want to hear from you!

Katlin Shuherk Photography.

419-788-8744

katlin@katlinshuherkphoto.com

www.findlayfamily.com • March 2019 •

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Adams Street Publishing Co. An inside look at what we’re loving for parents this month Hutchison Fine Furniture

It is possible to have a white sofa—even with small children! Hutchison Fine Furniture carries a wide selection of sofas, loveseats and chairs available in many beautiful performance fabrics—the latest in upholstery. According to Mendy Parker, performance fabrics are durable, easy-to-clean, stain resistant and soft to the touch. They are also good for your home and the environment because they don’t contain PFC chemicals.

3520 N. Main Street, 419-424-1757, hutchisonfinefurniture.com

Lucky Charms Cereal: Love it or Definitely Not Lucky?

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@adamsstreetpublishing.com) NO LUCK. AS A KID MY MOM WOULD NEVER BUY THEM FOR US.

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer

Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@adamsstreetpublishing.com) NO THANKS.

Advertising Sales Coordinator Jenny Leach (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) MMM... MARSHMALLOWS. Sales/ Classifieds Bonnie Hunter (bhunter@adamsstreetpublishing.com) NOT. Linne Gilbert (lgilbert@adamsstreetpublishing.com) I WAS NEVER A FAN OF MARSHMALLOWS IN MY CEREAL

Jumpin Puppies

Spoil your “furbabies!” Handmade treats, collars and more are available from Elaine Bauer’s home-based Findlay business. She makes healthy dog treats from scratch in her kitchen with “grain free” garbanzo bean flour and all-natural ingredients. Flavors include bacon and cheese, peanut butter, chicken and turmeric and sweet potato.

Bauer also sews collars, leashes, bandannas and flower and bow ties that attach to collars. Choose from a wide variety of styles and even have your pet’s name—or anything you like— embroidered on the collar! Your dog or cat will be stepping out in style!

Visit Elaine’s shop on-line or place an order via Facebook.etsy.com/shop/JumpinPuppy, “Jump’n Puppy” on Facebook

The Café at Millstream

Enjoy a yummy (and inexpensive) lunch while supporting teens preparing for culinary careers. The Café at Millstream is open to the public Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10:45am to 1pm during the school year. Wednesdays feature an a la carte menu, and Thursdays and Fridays offer a buffet with carving station. Selections vary every month, but could include chicken pot pie, mini meatloaf and smashed potatoes, 4-egg omelets, and a 24-foot salad bar with organically grown produce from Millstream’s growing gardens. You can’t beat the price--$5 per meal and $1 for drinks. “Students learn customer service, culinary skills and teamwork, while having fun doing it,” says Millstream instructor Chef Gordon Myers.

1150 Broad Avenue, 419-420-3342, millstreamcc.org/café.html, “The Café at Millstream Kitchen Corner” on Facebook

Editorial

Assignment Editor Emilee Roberts (editor2@findlayfamily.com) LOVE IT! Associate Editor Athena Cocoves (athena@adamsstreetpublishing.com) LOVE IT. Staff Writer Erin Holden (eholden@adamsstreetpublishing.com) LOVE THE MARSHMALLOWS, BUT THE REST OF IT IS BLEH. Calendar Sarah Emily (calendar@findlayfamily.com) GROSS. EAT HEALTHY FOLKS! Contributing Writers Lisa Crawford, Anita Doseck, Jessica Kempf, Betsey Watson Mascaro, Kay Mathias, Bailey Poland, Laurie Wurth Pressel, Emilee Roberts

Art/Production

Production Manager Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) MAGICALLY NASTY. Senior Designer Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) FOR SURE...LOVE. (ONCE IN A WHILE).

Graphic Design Anita Tipton (atipton@adamsstreetpublishing.com) DEFINITELY NOT!

VOTING IS OPEN MARCH 15TH!

TO ORDER UP: asy. ityTix.com! E C o d le o T it is V

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t Toledo City a s d n ie fr d ste From your tru alternative rt a m s ’s io h O est Paper, Northw keting portal, c ti w e n a s e introduc

Kelli Miller (kmiller@adamsstreetpublishing.com) MAGICALLY DELICIOUS. Norwin Lopez (nlopez@adamsstreetpublishing.com) NEUTRAL.

Administration

Accounting Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@adamsstreetpublishing.com) JUST PICKING THE SHAMROCKS OUT TO EAT. Distribution Eddie Knight (distribution@adamsstreetpublishing.com) GIVE ME CHEERIOS.

Digital

DIGITAL SPECIALIST Courtney Probert (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) LOOOOOOVE IT.

2018

Advertising/General Info

We want your choice!

VOTE for your favorite local people, places and spaces as Findlay Family’s annual Family Favorites.

Voting begins in March 15th

For advertising and general information, call 419-244-9859 or fax 419-244-9871. E-mail ads to adsin@adamsstreetpublishing.com.

Deadline for advertising copy 2 p.m. Friday before publication. Findlay Area Family 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 © 2019 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without written permission of the publisher.

Audited by

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V O T E ONLINE Also publishers of:

TO PARTNER UP: Get started by emailing tix@toledocitytix.com & let Toledo City Tix start connecting more readers to boost your ticketed events today.

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• March 2019 • www.findlayfamily.com

They can’t win without you!

go to findlayfamily.com

We’re always looking for great photos to fill our community snaps page! Send your favorite moments to production@adamsstreetpublishing.com

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Welcome to the Club, cub!

TOLEDO ZOO PHOTO CREDIT

3 Brinly,

The Toledo Zoo is excited to announce the birth of a polar bear cub on December 9, 2018. Mother, Crystal, is caring for the yet-to-be-named cub off exhibit. The Zoo’s animal care staff is carefully observing the cub’s progress through a video monitor in the den; as in the wild, the two bears will stay secluded until the cub grows substantially. The next steps, including a neo-natal exam with Zoo veterinary staff to determine sex and eventual exhibit debut date, are fluid and will be based on the cub’s progression.

Jeff Sailer, the Zoo’s CEO & president, said, “The Zoo is proud to welcome this conservation ambassador to the world. Each new cub is vitally important for maintaining a healthy and growing assurance population of this magnificent species.

A new birth also shines a renewed spotlight on the plight of wild polar bear populations and gives the Zoo another opportunity to educate our visitors on how to reduce our carbon footprints and help conserve this imperiled species and its Arctic habitat. We look forward to sharing this new cub with our visitors soon!”

www.findlayfamily.com • March 2019 •

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Findlay-Hancock County Public Library Users Now Have Access to Two New Online Resources The county library is one of 2,500 Ohio schools, academic and public libraries that were recently provided access to the resources through Libraries Connect Ohio (LCO) and partner Gale, a Cengage company.

With a library card, Ohioans can now access Gale’s digital resources 24/7 from any computer or mobile device.

The Gale resources include Kids InfoBits-an intuitive site that introduces students to database researching.

Students can explore age- appropriate content that’s continuously updated to match elementary level curricula that helps with research and homework needs. “We are excited to bring these new digital resources to Ohio library users,” said Beverly Cain, State Librarian of Ohio.

OhioLink Deputy Director Amy Pawlowski added, “We are particularly proud that Ohio’s citizens can freely access such a wide spectrum of valued resources at their local libraries.”

Findlay-Hancock County Public Library Director Jeff Winkle states that the resources can be accessed on the library website at findlaylibrary.org/databases. -KM

FELC Receives $1,500 Grant The Franciscan Earth Literacy Center (FELC) in Tiffin recently received a $1,500 grant from the Walmart Community Grants Team and Facility #1622 to support their community work and enhance their local impact.

FELC promotes environmental education through a variety of demonstrations and summer camps for children and encourages sustainable environmental practices.

The grant funds will support scholarships for local low-income elementary school children to attend three new summer camps, in addition to the five camps FELC hosted in 2018. Camp and scholarship information will be released in March on the FELC website, felctiffin.org. -BP

Early Intervention Program in Need of Mentors The Blanchard Valley Center Early Intervention Program is expanding its supports to local families who have children with developmental disabilities with a parent panel discussion in April and the implementation of a parent mentor service.

The service will link parents of young children with a parent mentor to help them in their journey as a parent of a child with a developmental disability. “We are looking for people who would be comfortable sharing your struggles, your joys and your insights into life with a child with a disability,” said Early Intervention Supervisor Tanya WeisingPike. “We need your wisdom, your experience and your voice.”

To take part in the upcoming panel discussion or are interested in serving as a mentor, contact Weising-Pike at 419-422-8173. -KM

A New Community Wellness Program The American Heart Association (AHA) NW Ohio Division recently kicked off a new community wellness program in Hancock County.

“Many companies do not have human resources or other personnel assigned to planning health and wellness initiatives and this program fills that gap, providing turn-key efforts at no cost that will help lead to a healthier Findlay/Hancock County,” said Anne Roman, Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs at Cooper Tire and Rubber Company and co-chair of the 2019 local AHA campaign. “We thank AHA for creating and launching it first in Findlay.”

A community wellness kit that features monthly program tips and resources is available to county companies and their employees.

The Findlay/Hancock County Heart Walk and 5K Run is an AHA event, set for April 6th at University of Findlay’s Koehler Center, featuring interactive and fun fitness stations and a community health fair.

For more information on the Walk/Run or the Community Wellness Kits, contact Kerri Rochelle of the AHA NW Ohio Division at 419-936-0638 or at kerri.rochelle@heart.org. -KM

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• March 2019 • www.findlayfamily.com

By Anita Doseck

tween the lines

advice for parents with children 10-16

Biggby Coffee to Open New Findlay Location Owners Will and Angie Briggs are expanding their business, opening a second Biggby Coffee franchise in Findlay. The new Biggby Coffee will be at 718 W. Trenton Ave, the former home of the Spaghetti Shop, which closed its doors in October, 2018.

This year marks the 10-year anniversary for the Tiffin Avenue Biggby location, also owned by the couple. “We absolutely love Findlay,” Angie says, calling her Findlay customers fantastic, friendly and kind. Several customers, they affectionately call “Biggby Fanatics,” come in every day, or sometimes two and three times a day.

The Briggs are currently working with an architect to create plans for their new location to finalize the design and begin construction as soon as possible.

Biggby brews six varieties of coffee daily and has a menu that includes recipes for coffee and tea drinks, as well as smoothies. There is something for everyone at Biggby Coffee, a business which prides itself in being part of the community.

For updates on the upcoming location visit “Biggby Coffee Findlay, Ohio” on Facebook.

Whole Nutraceuticals Approaches Health in a New Way Findlay residents Ben Patterson, a former environmental science professional, and his business partner, urologist Dr. Thomas Zaciewski, are approaching health and healing in a revolutionary way, using whole foods as medicine. Eleven years ago, Patterson’s mother was diagnosed with leukemia, and Patterson began researching whole food nutrition as a means of healing.

Zaciewski recognizing that Patterson was an expert in whole food nutrition, and being asked daily by patients for vitamins or foods that could help with health issues, turned to Patterson for information. With the knowledge that there are nutrients in whole foods that positively affect certain areas of health, the two created Whole Nutraceutical last year. They now have patented two formulas, Whole Kidney (which fights kidney stones) and Whole Bone (which fights bone loss). Patterson explained that Whole Nutraceuticals will be patenting five more products in the near future.

Recently featured on a news segment with WTOL Toledo 11, The University of Toledo has approached the company with interest in a research study. Patterson says that the goal is to get the medical world involved in seeking natural alternatives to supplement traditional medicine.

Learn more about Whole Nutraceuticals and their products at wholenutraceuticals.com and “Whole Nutraceuticals” on Facebook.

The HD Lounge at Legends brings something different to Downtown The HD Lounge at Legends opened its doors in November, 2018 after a drastic remodel. The new look is striking – a modern feel with clean lines and plenty of comfortable seating. The space above Legends, that previously housed a banquet facility, is now the home of a new kind of dining experience that includes virtual sports!

The HD Lounge features four HD Multi-sport Simulators. Guests will surely find an activity they can enjoy, choosing simulations from baseball, football, golf, hockey, dodgeball, soccer and shooting sports. The goal of the HD Lounge is to bring more activity to downtown Findlay, and they are certainly doing that.

The cocktail lounge, an elegant space with an impressive beer, liquor, and wine selection, offers food from the menu at Legends. Manager Andrew Williams notes that Legends/HD Lounge has the only 1005 Prime Grade burger in Findlay.

The full facility (cocktail lounge included) is still available to rent for private events.

Make sure not to miss the March Madness Watch Parties!

411 S. Main St., 11am-9pm Sunday-Thursday, 11am-10pm Friday-Saturday, but closed for lunch on Monday, 567-250-9189, hdloungeatlegends.com, “HD Lounge at Legends” on Facebook.

Sabrina Henige’s time away from social media allows her to explore a variety of interests.

Among The Few

Local teen delays her entry into the realm of social media

by Lisa Crawford

Some might say that Sabrina Henige is not getting as much out of smartphone ownership as she could. Henige, a student at Glenwood Middle School, is quite happy to text friends and to have phone conversations, but you won’t find her posting photos to Instagram or checking to see if a casual comment has gained any “likes.” She finds herself in the minority when it comes to social media usage by fellow teens.

Sabrina turned 13 last July, and could now be active on social media according to the rules set by her parents, Nick and Tiffany Henige.

But, she has yet to create a public profile for any online site. She notes fearing the potential addiction she has seen in other social media users and has also benefited from her parents’ acknowledgement of negative experiences a sibling faced socializing via the internet.

Other endeavors Henige prefers to use her free time to learn new things by taking lessons, participating in afterschool education programs and exploring interests which include Spanish, guitar playing, robotics, attending Campus Life and taking some advanced study courses.

Sabrina wants to be clear, “I don’t use social media, but I have nothing against it. I think social media can be wonderful…it’s like another culture that’s embedded into our current one, and it’s an amazing way to communicate. It’s

always there and a resource people shouldn’t ignore. It can be amazing, you just have to make sure the relationship you have with it is positive…that you’re not addicted and you aren’t hurting people.”

Those in her closest friendship circle are light users of social media and she hasn’t suffered from what some have termed “FOMO,” the fear of missing out. “They’re living their lives and I’m living my life.” Henige doesn’t feel that she needs to share her life events constantly via the internet.

No need to be center stage A 2018 Pew Research Center survey of 743 young people reported that sharing their life online can come with added social burdens: Around four-in-ten say they feel pressure to only post content on social media that makes them look good to others (43%), or share things that will get a lot of likes or comments (37%).

In light of the survey, Sabrina’s observations are incredibly insightful. “When it comes to social media, is it not all just performing?

You’re constantly performing and to do that it has to be difficult to be addicted to that and then to be expected to (always show a bright side), I feel like it would be a lot! I want to live without an audience.”

www.findlayfamily.com • March 2019 •

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EXCEPTIONAL FAMILIES

Thank You Toledo For Voting Us Best Of Toledo

for parents of children with special needs

2018

Transportation Limousines Sedans Vans Charter Buses Limousine Buses Handicap Buses

P: 419-535-7019 F: 419-866-7044

Airport Transportation Casino Transportation Large Event Coordinating

5825 Angola Road, Toledo • ChildersTransportation.com

Building confidence, one block at a time. Raia Koomen plays Jenga at the 2019 Winterfest with her dad, Jason.

Having Fun - No Matter Your Difference or Ability

Offering support for the special needs community

by Laurie Wurth Pressel

ADDAPTCO may be a long acronym, but every letter stands for an important word—All Developmental Differences & Abilities Parent Teacher Community Organization.

A non-profit organization, ADDAPTCO brings together parents, teachers and the community to support and empower Hancock County’s special needs community.

Christina Treece founded the organization in 2014 as Friends of BVS. The recent name change reflects the organization’s expanded role in the community, says Treece. “We want people to know that we are here to serve the entire community and students from every school district.”

Events and activities A non-profit organization, ADDAPTCO sponsors annual events and activities for children with developmental differences, including a Fall Fest the third Saturday in September and a Winterfest the last Saturday in January. The inclusive events are sensory-friendly but feature carnival-type activities that all children love. “You can take your child to our events and feel safe and comfortable,” said Treece.

“No one will be judging your child’s behavior.”

In addition, ADDAPTCO hosts many other activities such as art therapy at Awakening Minds Art, music therapy at Heartstring Melodies, a

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monthly All Abilities Day at the Children’s Museum and a special event to promote literacy. Most events are free or low cost.

“Our focus is on getting students with development differences out in the community to live and play alongside typical students,” says Treece.

“By making our events inclusive, we are helping everyone understand that although we may be different in some ways, we are alike in others.”

Treece, the founder and president of ADDAPTCO, donates her time and energy to make the organization thrive. Run entirely by volunteers, ADDAPTCO could benefit from committee members and board members To learn more, visit addaptco.org.

Face the fun. Volunteer Emma Holguin paints the face of Alaina Smith at the 2019 Winterfest.

Child Care & Preschool

SPONSORED CONTENT

GUIDE

Preschool” vs. Childcare While the terms preschool and childcare are used interchangeably, and despite the fact that they share similarities, they are decidedly different.

Preschool programs aim to prepare toddlers for school, with a greater emphasis on early learning and academics. Preschool typically only accepts children ages 3 to 5 and tends to have more teachers with training in Early Childhood Education.

Preschool curriculums generally follow the school calendar, which means they are closed during holidays and summer vacation, and they maintain typical school hours, usually something like 8 to 3 with, the option of half days.

Childcare refers to any setting where a child is looked after — from a nanny to a daycare. Daycares generally leave plenty of time to explore and incorporate playbased learning, and many daycares now also include structured early learning and pre-academics. Childcare centers generally accept infants up to school-age children with the option of extended care before and after school hours for working parents.

By Erin Marsh

Childcare & Preschool Guide: Questions & Considerations ST. MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL SCHOOL

St. Michael the Archangel School St. Michael the Archangel School St. Michael the Archangel School St. Michael the Archangel School

St. Michael the Archangel Catholic School Academy of Angels 723 Sutton Place | 419-423-2738 findlaystmichaelschool.org Educational philosophy: At the center of education at St. Michael the Archangel School in Findlay, Ohio are beliefs and teachings of the Catholic Church.

St. Michael offers a challenging curriculum steeped in Catholic tradition and conveyed by inventive and dedicated teachers who hold high academic and behavioral standards. They help to develop our next generation of Catholic leaders by developing their faith and providing an atmosphere in which the Gospel message is at the fore. Their educators excel at making these beliefs come alive in themselves and in those whom they teach, while emphasizing a Spirit-filled, faith-based community.

Tours and open houses available: Call for a school tour.

Caregiver or teacher/student ratio: 1:10 or smaller.

Hours of operation: All day Kindergarten readiness: 8am-2:25pm; Preschool: 8:30-11am.

Enrolling Now for the 2019�20 School Year Preschool, Kindergarten Readiness & Kindergarten

Daily activities: Art activities and crafts, story time, science activities, centerbased free-play, dramatic play, use of a reading center, development of large and fine motor skills, library, music class, and kids help with cleanup and prayer.

All day Kindergarten readiness attends all school masses for Holy Days of Obligation or special masses.

www.FindlayStMichaelSchool.org Enrolling Now for the 2019�20 School Year Enrolling Now for School Year Enrolling Now for the the 2019�20 2019�20 School Year Preschool, Kindergarten Readiness & Kindergarten Preschool, Kindergarten Readiness & Kindergarten Preschool, Kindergarten Readiness & Kindergarten www.FindlayStMichaelSchool.org www.FindlayStMichaelSchool.org www.FindlayStMichaelSchool.org

Nap times? No. Meals and snacks provided? Children may pack a lunch or purchase one from the cafeteria for the all day Kindergarten readiness. Preschool has daily snacks.

Potty training required? Yes.

Cont. on Pg 10

www.findlayfamily.com • March 2019 •

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Cont. from Pg 9

Bright Beginnings 6393 Oak Tree Blvd Independence, OH 216-698-7500 esc-cc.org/content. aspx?id=237840

Formerly Help Me Grow of Cuyahoga County, Bright Beginnings provides services that promote the health and development of infants and toddlers so children start school healthy and ready to learn. Bright Beginnings works with families to provide programing in the home or a community setting to help children reach milestone goals. Bright Beginnings supports families through the Parents as Teachers program and Early Intervention services in Cuyahoga County, and provides connections to the Help Me Grow system of supports and community resources throughout Ohio.

YWCA Child Care Resource and Referral 1018 Jefferson, Toledo | 419-241-3235

ywcaccrrevents.org/events/parents-and-families Although not a child care center, the YWCA’s Child Care Resource and Referral offers a wide variety of resources to parents and child care workers in Northwest Ohio, helping parents find child care that meets the needs of their individual child.

Additionally, the organization offers courses to help strengthen parenting skills.

For child care workers, the YWCA assists by helping them with earning Step Up to Quality star ratings, Ohio’s rating initiative geared towards making sure all children receive high quality early childhood education.

Questions to Ask When Visiting/Interviewing Preschools and Daycare Centers: o What does an average day look like? o Is the curriculum play-based or academic-based or Montessori? o What kind of support does the school offer for children with special needs? o Does the center offer half days and/or full days? o Does the center have early drop off and/or late pick up for working parents? o Is lunch provided for children who stay a full day? o Is the location and program a good fit for your child and family? o What is the adult to child ratio? o What training/certifications and experience do the teachers hold? o How long has the school been operating? o What kind of diversity does the school offer? o What sets this school apart from others? o Think about your child’s personality and ask if the school would be a good fit for him/her? o What is the school’s Step Up to Quality star rating? o Ask for a parent referral so you can talk about the school from a parent’s perspective.

Signs a Child Might be Ready for Preschool: Eric Swindel, preschool teacher for Sylvania Schools, explains, “Most preschool programs have an age requirement, and oftentimes, a requirement for students to be potty-trained. A parent should measure whether their child is ready to spend the preschool day away from them and whether [their child is] able to advocate their wants and needs and follow the lead of another adult, knowing that a large part of the preschool teacher’s job is...to create a nurturing environment for the student to develop and showcase these skills.”

“Preschool benefits all children as it allows them to grow and develop skills of advocacy, self-regulation, independence, and social and academic skills,” Eric continues. “Students who are introverted or shy will benefit from experiencing a social environment with others who might be more outgoing.”

Eric adds, “Preschool provides an opportunity to grow self-confidence and the ability for the child to showcase more of a true sense of their personality.

My daughter benefitted from two years of preschool and is really thriving in kindergarten due, in large part, to the skills developed from her wonderful preschool teachers!”

Types of Preschool and Childcare Options: Montessori: Montessori, a program developed over 100 years ago by physician and educator Maria Montessori, emphasizes nature, creativity and hands-on learning with gentle guidance from teachers. Students are allowed the freedom and independence to explore in order to develop their character, life skills and academic ability.

Parent Co-ops: Parents are actively involved in the education of their little one and work closely with the classroom teachers. Parents and children learn together in this hands-on approach, teaching cooperation and how to resolve conflict. Some co-ops request daily parent participation while others require classroom visits once a week or once a month.

Play-based: Most preschools are play-based or child-centered, allowing children to choose activities based on their interests. Classrooms typically have multiple play/learning centers, such as a kitchen, science area, sensory table, reading nook, building station, etc, and preschoolers are free to choose their preference. Teachers facilitate play and social interactions so that students can grow in their social and emotional intelligence, which is a key component of preschool.

Child Care & Preschool

GUIDE

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• March 2019 • www.findlayfamily.com

Academic-based: Teacher-directed preschools lead the students in a structured way to complete the activities the teacher planned for the day.

The goal of an academic preschool is to prepare children for the kindergarten setting. Classroom time is devoted to learning letters and sounds, identifying shapes, telling time, and other academic skills.

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF KEEPSAKE PORTRAITS

A Tradition of Music

​FHS Symphony Orchestra developing lifelong skills The latest buzz phrase in education is “21st century skills.” ​How can we produce citizens and employees who can problem solve, communicate, collaborate and think creatively? It’s a challenging task, especially today, when children and teens spend an inordinate amount of time playing video games, buried in their digital devices—activities that don’t exactly lend themselves to personal growth.

While often minimized or over​ looked in favor of the latest educational fad, music education has been developing 21st century skills for decades. In fact, numerous research studies have shown that students who play a musical instrument not only excel in academics, they excel in life.

Hancock County’s orchestra program About 250 students in Findlay City Schools are developing lifelong skills every day by participating in the district’s orchestra program.

Findlay is the only school district in Hancock County that offers an orchestra program.

String instruments—violin, viola, cello and bass—are the most challenging instruments to learn because of the fine motor skills and ear training involved. “It’s commonly referred to as a ‘whole brain’ activity because research has shown that it simultaneously engages almost every part of the brain—auditory, visual and motor,” says Ken Pressel, orchestra director at Glenwood Middle School and Findlay High School.

Students can join orchestra in the 6th grade as beginners, refine their skills in 7th and 8th grade, and participate in the Findlay High School Symphony Orchestra until graduation. They play a wide-repertoire of music with three to five concerts a year, make lifelong friends and are exposed to cultural enrichment opportunities.

Gabi Gazette, concertmaster of the FHS Symphony Orchestra this year, started playing violin at age three. She open-enrolled at Findlay her freshman year so she could be in the orchestra.

She says she’s developed leadership skills, confidence and determination.

“The violin is a beautiful instrument and it is so fun, yet also challenging, to play,” she said. “When I finally get something down, I feel really content with myself, even if it’s a small accomplishment. There’s always something to work on and figure out.”

Jared Fleckner plays string bass and is president of the FHS Symphony Orchestra this year. He joined the orchestra program in the 4th grade, inspired by his older sister who was

also in orchestra. “Just playing one instrument opened the doorway to many different groups,” he said. “I have played string bass, bass guitar or upright electric base for drumline, the FHS musical, show choir, jazz band and open mic nights at Coffee Amici.”

According to Fleckner, he’s developed leadership skills and learned how to communicate with his peers and adults because of orchestra.

“But the thing I enjoy the most is the sense of community and the fun we have,” he said.

A family affair For many Findlay families, participating in orchestra is a tradition. This school year, there are 15 families that have more than one child in orchestra Mousa and Angela AlAhmad have six children and they’ve all played violin in Findlay’s orchestra program.

Currently, the couple’s two youngest children—Ammar and Sameerah— play in the FHS Symphony Orchestra. “Through the years, orchestra has been a tradition for my family.

We look forward to going to performances and hearing the students progress from squeaky beginners to beautiful musicians. It’s been a joy for my husband and I to watch, listen and to see them grow while playing in orchestra. It’s also increased our love of music,” said Angela.

All three children of Dr. Michael and Jenne Cairns have participated in the orchestra program. Their son, Sam, is a 6th grader at Glenwood learning the cello, and their daughter, Emily, who graduated from the FHS Orchestra last spring, is now playing cello at The Ohio State University, with a minor in music.

Jenne notes that playing in the orchestra provides students with seven years of growth. “I absolutely believe music education is integral to the success of students as human beings.

Not only is it necessary to examine how music shapes our culture, and other cultures throughout the world, but learning an instrument builds important life skills such as patience, self-motivation and confidence,” she said. “The orchestra program at FCS is truly one of the gems of the school system. I really can’t think of a program in the schools that has made more of an impact on our family than the orchestra program.”

This spring, it’s all about the strings The orchestra program prides itself on producing outstanding concerts at every level. “The concerts showcase the talent of our students,” says Pressel. “We work hard to prepare concerts that the audience will enjoy and appreciate.”

Jung siblings, Grace, 8th grade violin and Daniel, 6th grade violin This spring, the orchestra program has two special programs planned.

The 7th and 8th grade orchestra students at Glenwood and Donnell are collaborating with the Toledo Symphony Orchestra (TSO). TSO musicians will visit the schools four times this spring to work with the students in small groups. They will then join the students for a rehearsal, dinner and side-by-side concert on Thursday, May 9, at 7 pm, at the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts. The TSO mentorship program is being funded by Marathon Petroleum, the Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation and the Findlay Music Boosters.

Also in May, the FHS Symphony Orchestra will be performing a special concert with guest pianist Scott Lavender. The group will perform George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue”—one of the most iconic jazz/ classical compositions by a 20th century American composer. Lavender is the pianist and orchestra conductor for the legendary singer Johnny Mathis and has conducted orchestras around the world, including the National Symphony, Atlanta Symphony and the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

Several other professional musicians as well as members of the Ohio Northern University Symphony will join the FHS Symphony on stage.

This concert will take place on Monday, May 13, at 7:30pm in the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts.

AlAhmad siblings, Sameerah, 9th grade violin and Ammar, 12th grade violin

Taber Siblings, Katelyn, 10th grade viola and Megan, 9th grade cello

De La Cruz siblings, Cross, 11th grade baritone and Dallas, 8th grade string bass

​For information on the orchestra program, visit orchestra.fcs.org and “Findlay City Schools Orchestra” on Facebook.

Nichols siblings, Gretchen, 12th grade violin and Brianna, 9th grade violin

Stolick siblings, Moses, 6th grade cello, Van, 10th grade string bass and Simone, 8th grade violin

www.findlayfamily.com • March 2019 •

11

Parents Night Out Put on Some Green and Head Out for St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Fun local events you don’t want to miss

by Emilee Roberts

Whether you want to grab your love, some friends and a green beer for a true St. Patrick’s Day experience or simply have a sitter and are looking for a fun event for Parents Night Out on St. Patrick’s Day weekend, check out this list of local happenings!

Friday March 15

The Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular Surrounded by walls of concert quality sound, The Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular carries listeners away on a mind-expanding journey, driven by cutting-edge effects, high-powered lasers, Hi-Def large screen video projection and special lighting effects.

Your senses are confronted with an array of visual displays, choreographed to the soundtrack during this amazing spectacle.

Pink Floyd’s music is very dramatic and visual. You can imagine images when you listen to Pink Floyd’s music. Without any lighting effects at all there is still a show in your mind. Now, imagine using lasers, lighting, video and other special effects to interpret what your mind is ‘seeing,’ and that is why people love this show so much. It touches on all of their senses.

Over the years, the show has changed and so has the audience. You will see classic rockers along with a new generation of Floyd fans!

Sunday March 17

3RingsLeft at The Gathering for St. Patrick’s Day Join sister singer-songwriters, 3RingsLeft, at The Gathering for St. Patrick’s Day! In addition to their acoustic/electric covers and original songs by artists such as Stevie Nicks, The Eagles, Ed Sheeran, Imagine Dragons, and OneRepublic, they intersperse a handful of cinematic pop songs from their upcoming album. Enjoy all The Gathering has to offer plus some awesome live entertainment!

You don’t want to miss it!

9pm-midnight, The Gathering, 114 E. Main Cross St., 567-525-3235, findlaygathering.com, “The Gathering / Gathering Wine / Anvil Whiskey Bar” on Facebook Logan’s Irish Pub Every day is St. Patrick’s Day at Logan’s Irish Pub! Head there Friday night for live music or go any time over the weekend for a true Irish experience. Put on some green and join them as they celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with beer and good cheer. They have numerous dining options including traditional Irish entrees.

Their special selection of Irish beers and whiskeysguarantee a fun and relaxing time. So head to Logan’s Irish Pub for a genuine St. Patrick’s Day experience!

7:30-9:45pm, Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, 200 W. Main Cross St., 419-423-2797, mcpa.org, “Marathon Center for the Performing Arts” on Facebook

Logan’s Irish Pub, 414 S. Main St., 419-420-3602, logansirishpubfindlay.com, “Logan’s Irish Pub” on Facebook

Our WORLD FAMOUS stuffed breadsticks make the perfect treat for any party or event!

LET US CATER YOUR NEXT EVENT Our team can work with you to help create a custom order to suit the budget and size of your event.

FINDLAY 339 S Blanchard St. | Findlay, OH 567.525.5539

12

• March 2019 • www.findlayfamily.com

CONNECTIONS

Classical Music Tradition Continues in Findlay Aruna Rajan teaches Carnatic classical music

by Bailey Poland

Aruna Rajan, from Delhi, India and now living in Findlay, has been studying Carnatic classical music since she was five years old. Carnatic classical is a vocal style of music originating in southern India. When she started lessons, Rajan said, “I was not at all interested. I could hear my friends jumping, playing and running around outside, but I had to stay inside to take lessons.” Eventually, however, Rajan fell in love with Carnatic classical, and she has continued to study and teach music in Findlay.

Describe Carnatic classical music?

Rajan described the intricate music, which takes years to learn. “Most of the songs are sung in praise. Each song would be dedicated to one god,” Rajan said. “Many of the songs are composed to evoke a particular emotion in the audience, such as joy or sorrow. Pitch is very important in Carnatic classical music,

and learning how to match a pitch is the first lesson many students learn.”

What ages of students do you teach?

There are two groups of students in Rajan’s school, The Swara Srishti School of Music and Art. The younger group of children, who are around six years old, are currently learning to match pitches through fun-filled lessons to keep them entertained. The second group, with students around 10 and 11 years old, is moving into intermediate lessons. Rajan is also preparing for a third group of students.

Where can people go to see the students perform?

Rajan’s students will be performing during Healthy Kids day in Findlay on April 27, 2019. The event will be free and open to the public.

Students wearing traditional performance attire, which includes Pavadai and Chattai (long skirt and top) for girls and Kurta (long shirt) and jeans for boys

Recipe for Samosas Samosas a popular Indian food, typically paired with mint chutney and sweet chutney (although tomato ketchup works too).

Ready for fun in the sun?

For dough:

Findlay Area Family is here to help!

From library story times to local events to special holiday happenings, our online calendar offers everything you need to stay active this summer. For stories and ideas straight to your inbox, sign up for our parent e-newsletter today!

Maida/all purpose flour – 2c Ghee – 1/4c Salt to taste Carom seeds – 1tsp

findlayfamily.com

Mix ingredients to a breadcrumb consistency. Add water, 1 to 2 tbsp at a time. Knead to a firm dough. Cover dough with a damp kitchen towel. Set aside for 30 mins.

For stuffing:

Oil – 2tbsp 4 medium potatoes; boiled, peeled Green peas – 1/2c Ginger chili paste – 2tsp Amchur powder/dried mango powder – 1tsp

Garam masala – 1tsp Salt to taste Pinch of turmeric powder Red chili powder – 1/2tsp (Optional)

Heat oil in a pan. Sauté ginger chili paste for a few seconds. Add green peas. Cook for 2 minutes on medium heat. Mash the potatoes. Add remaining ingredients, mix well. Cook for 4-5 minutes on medium. Let mixture cool.

Making Samosas:

Divide dough into 10 balls.

Rub oil on a rolling pin and flat surface; roll one dough ball into an 8” oval.

Cut the oval into halves; make a cone with one half, sealing the edges with water.

Fill the cone with a tablespoon of stuffing and seal the top as well.

Repeat with the rest.

Heat oil for deep frying.

Once the oil heats up, reduce heat to low/medium and add two samosas. Constantly rotate samosas and brown on all sides. Drain samosas on a paper towel, serve hot.

$9 daily Lunch Special Sandwich or Pizza & Soup or Salad & Drink

tuesday Trivia Night 6:30 - 8pm

Free

wednesday Ladies Night half OFF Wine 5pm - 9pm

331 S. Main St - Findlay, Ohio 45840 • info@findlayfireside.com • Tel: 419-777-5088

www.findlayfamily.com • March 2019 •

13

Making Kids Feel Welcome

Jaime Shank serves families at Cedar Creek Church

by Jessica Kempf

If you have ever walked through the doors of Cedar Creek Church with children in tow, chances are good that you know Jaime Shank. With a contagious smile and genuine enthusiasm, Jaime has a special way of making kids feel welcome. As Cedar Creek’s Director of Kids, Findlay Campus, she devotes her time and energy to creating a place for kids, ages birth through fifth grade, to know Jesus.

From volunteer to director A graduate of Findlay High School, Jaime is married to Tom Shank and the couple have two children. They began attending Cedar Creek’s Findlay campus in 2014 where the opportunity to volunteer in Cedarville (the kids ministry area at Cedar Creek) presented itself. “I fell in love with serving kids every week, hearing their perspective and just getting to see the world through their eyes,” Shank explains.

As she began to flourish in her volunteer role, Jaime was encouraged to consider an internship program with the church. After many conversations and prayers, she says God gave her a clear answer that the internship was the thing to do. So she began interning with the church in 2015, stayed for an apprenticeship program in 2016, and now she is the Director of Kids. The extensive training, along with her natural ability with children, makes Cedarville the

highlight of many kids’ weeks. Jamie sees between 100 to 200 kids per week in Cedarville. She also manages a group of about 50 volunteers who keep things running smoothly.

Getting to know the kids Staying relevant to kids’ culture is important to Cedarville staff and volunteers. During a weekend service, kids play fun games, dance to upbeat worship music, watch fun videos that incorporate Bible lessons and break into small groups to discuss life’s challenges. “My favorite part of my job is getting to know the kids… knowing their names and knowing their stories. I also like building relationships with the parents, seeing them on a consistent basis and just being able to walk through life together with them,” she explains.

Jamie is not only passionate about kids; she is equally passionate about her church. “I think Cedar Creek is a great place to come to be your authentic self and to find people that want to walk beside you. I honestly have never found a better community of people of like mind and people that challenge me to grow in my own faith, life and leadership,” she explains.

Jaime and Tom Shank have two daughters, Ava (age 6) and Kylie (almost 1)

For more information about Cedar Creek Church go to cedarcreek.tv or call their Findlay campus at 567-429-7121.

orites v a F y a l Find ime: ub & k Oven P with Ja it’s eside Bric

Jaime Shank brings enthusiasm and passion to her role as Director of Kids at Cedar Creek Church’s Findlay Campus

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HERE’s YOUR CHANCE AT “ME TIME” (Once you ship the kids off to one of our great camps)

Part 1

ISSUE DATE: Apr. 1st SPACE RESERVATION BY: Mar. 15th

RESERVE SPACE NOW!! Call 419.244.9859 or Email Sales@AdamsStreetPublishing.com 14

• March 2019 • www.findlayfamily.com

healthy moms

VOTING OPENS MARCH 15TH! We want to hear from you!

Vote for your favorite local people, places and spaces in Fndlay Area Family’s annual Family Favorites.

Voting begins in March 15th.

a F mi

Healing Holistically

Celebration of Health Association’s natural approach to treatment

by Jessica Kempf

Terry Chappell, M.D., is a family physician with forty years of experience in treating patients. He started Celebration of Health Association in Bluffton with an emphasis on reducing pain without medication. Chappell, Medical Director and owner of the practice, is the primary doctor working with nurses and office staff.

Minimizing side effects After a trip to Appalachia where opioid use was high, Chappell began looking at other ways to reduce pain without side effects or dependence. Utilizing alternative treatments such as acupuncture, Chappell found success in healing and relieving discomfort for his patients without medication. Today he offers a wide variety of natural treatment options along with conventional methods.

“Pain relief and fatigue are common ailments that our practice treats. We often times use conventional medicine, we just try to minimize the side effects. Our priority is to improve a patient’s function.”

Fifty five percent of Americans take prescription medicines and most take more than one. Medications can be life saving but they often also have side effects. Chappell explains that most doctors don’t realize how effective natural methods can be. “They really do work.

You just have to know how to use them,” he explains.

Variety of treatments Chappell and his staff have a variety of alternative treatment options available.

They utilize high dose nutrition therapy to reduce pain and inflammation. Neurofeedback, or brain wave mapping, is used to increase focus and attention by monitoring and correcting irregular brain waves in patients. Chappell is also excited to offer chelation therapy, which may improve circulation and hardening of the arteries through a series of slow intravenous infusions of a synthetic amino acid (EDTA). A full list of natural treatment options are listed on the Celebration of Health website at healthcelebration.com.

Chappell explains that each patient is unique and there is no “one size fits all” approach to medicine. Celebration of Health Association treats people of all ages, including children. The practice offers a free phone consultation for those interested in treatment questions concerning a particular health issue.

For more information, go to healthcelebration.com or call 419-358-4627.

orites

F a yl v

2018

V O T E ONLINE

go to findlayfamily.com They can’t win without you!

www.findlayfamily.com • March 2019 •

15

Beer Barrel Pizza and Grill: Oodles of Options for Every Appetite BEER BARREL PIZZA AND GRILL

900 Interstate Dr., Findlay 419-424-3663 “Beer Barrel Pizza & Grill” on Facebook Monday - Thursday: 11am-12am Friday and Saturday: 11am-1am Sunday: 11am-11pm We had just survived the great snow dump of 2019. The dishwasher was broken, and this mom was not in the mood to cook (and then hand wash all those dishes!). So off to Beer Barrel we went where we were greeted by a friendly face and a roaring fire.

Although the parking lot was full, the spacious restaurant offers enough seating so that we got a table immediately.

We wound our way through booths and open tables, around a large curved bar and stepped up into a big, round corner booth. With a view of the full restaurant, we could see the cavernous building lined with warm wood and rustic metal.

Vintage chandeliers hung above the tables while enormous projection screens, TV monitors, and neon lights added bright accents throughout the space.

Classic Cooper Tire and Marathon signs dotted the walls.

From nutritious and delicious to indulgent and extravagant The kids gazed around the room, the girls began coloring and Leland, Jeremy and I began perusing the menu. With an ambitious beer selection, astounding salad options (meatball salad?!) and an impressive variety of pizzas (including cauliflower and gluten-free crusts), Beer Barrel offers tempting choices for any appetite from large to small, healthy to indulgent.

To get started, we opted for the Flaming Saganaki appetizer because, well, it involves both cheese and fire. I also wanted to try the Fried Green Beans since the choice seemed semi-responsible but also yummy. For our main dishes, the girls split a half cheese / half pepperoni deep dish pizza. Leland chose a classic rib dinner with mashed potatoes and fries (he inherited his love of spuds from me!). My husband, Jeremy, picked a meatball sub and I finally chose the San Antonio thin crust pizza.

Soon after placing our order, a crowd of servers gathered around our table.

And there it was – a brick of cheese on a plate. With great gusto, clapping, and an exuberant “Opa!”, the Saganaki was set aflame. We were in awe and the kids start16

Choose from classic favorites or unique flavor combinations

by Betsey Watson Mascaro

ed reaching toward the fiery cheese for a taste. Served with soft, warm pita bread, the cheese included a crisp outer shell and a mild, Swiss-like flavor. I’m not a fan of Swiss, by between the group of us, that appetizer disappeared. Thankfully, during this time the green beans appeared.

Served with a spicy and sweet Thai dipping sauce, the beans had a light tempura coating that gave them a delicate and delicious crunch. The kids ate a few but found the dipping sauce a bit spicy.

A close second to the Windy City As we awaited our main meals, my eyes kept skipping around the large, spacious restaurant. Upbeat music poured through the speakers, bright lights flashed from the games and the TV screens caught my eye. Thankfully, the food arrived promptly. The pizza was a classic blend of cheese topped with vibrant red tomato sauce (traditional deep dish style!) and sprinkled with bright green basil. Leland was positively radiant as he eyed his ribs while I relished the festive blend of yellow corn, green cilantro and black beans on my San Antonio pizza. As we dug in, Jeremy reported that the sub was pretty standard but noted that the ribs were delicious. Leland couldn’t report on the flavors because he was too busy eating his food and grinning (obviously a good sign). Mae was a little taken aback by the pizza’s flipflopped cheese and sauce. Joey loved the thick layer of cheese but wasn’t too keen on the basil (strange since she eats it off the plant during the summer).

Having lived in Chicago, Jeremy and I have some pretty strong feelings about deep dish pizza. While Beer Barrel’s version lacked the cornmeal crust we love, it was hands-down the closest to authentic deep dish we’ve found anywhere outside the Windy City. My thin crust pizza was really enjoyable, with fresh flavors balanced by sweet corn and creamy, plentiful cheese. Perhaps the only complaint was that the crust was too thin to support all the toppings!

My kids’ complaint, however, was that we left Beer Barrel and denied them the opportunity to try dessert. For those with a sweet tooth, Beer Barrel offers only a few desserts, but they are undeniably tempting: tabletop s’mores, cheesecake, and a chocolate and peanut butter buckeye dessert (appropriate for this Ohio-based chain restaurant!). But alas, the hour was late and our bellies were bursting. With two large takeout boxes of pizza, we braved the dark, snowy roads home. With so many tasty and adventurous ways to satisfy our cravings, we’ll return to Beer Barrel soon. And maybe then we can sample those scrumptious desserts.

Mouthwatering desserts – for another time

• March 2019 • www.findlayfamily.com

The Short Course:

Kid-friendly: Yes. To avoid wait: Visit during an off-peak time or call ahead.

Noise level: Loud!

Bathroom amenities: Clean.

High chairs? Yes. Got milk? Yes. Kids’ menu? Yes. Anything healthy for kids? Standard options with applesauce available.

Adult salads and sides offer healthy options that may work for kiddos.

Food allergy concerns? Speak with your server about specific allergy concerns.

{ March

2019 }

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

1 Friday Opening Exhibition “Demon Rum & Cold Water: The Two Sides of Temperance” - The multi-media exhibition focuses on the Prohibition years in America. Hear about how the Hayes family played a part in the drama. $5-$20. Kids under 5 are free.

9am-5pm. Hayes Presidential Library, Spiegel Grove, Fremont. 419-3322081. rbhayes.org Smarty Pants Storytime - Read a book with other preschoolers.

11-11:30am. Also, Saturday 3.2.

Smarty Pants, 618 S. Main St. 419-425-3276. smartypantsfindlay.com Free

2 Saturday

5 Tuesday Spring Break Kids Camp - The Recreation and Wellness Department at BGSU will host a five day camp for kids ages 5-12 years. Daily activities include field trips and educational games and sports. $125-$145. 9am-4pm. Through Friday, 3.8. BGSU Recreation, 1411 Ridge St., Bowling Green.

419-372-2000. bgsu.edu/recwell.html

Homeschoolers - Learn about orienteering using a compass and the outdoor environment. The class will go on a short hike. 10:30am.

Slippery Elm Trail, 14810 Freyman Rd., Cygnet. 419-353-1897. wcparks.org Free

Sky Badge Girl Scouts - Scouts can earn their Sky badge by discovering constellations and visiting the planetarium. Register.

6-8:30pm. Oakwood Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Lane.

419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free

Story of the Swamp - Learn about the history of NWO and the Great Black Swamp region from it’s geological formations and wildlife.

7pm. Otsego Park, 20000 W. River Rd., Bowling Green. 419-353-1897. wcparks.org Free

Lima Symphony: Star Wars - The exciting family concert will feature the soundtrack to the Star Wars films. $10$35. 7:30pm. Marathon Center, 200 W. Main Cross St., Findlay.

419-423-2787. mcpa.org An Evening of One Acts - The Fort Findlay Playhouse will perform four short comedies: “The Most Massive Woman Wins”, “Drivers Test”, “Box and Cox”, and “Check Please”. $12.

5pm. Fort Findlay Playhouse, 300 W. Sandusky St. 419-423-7168. fortfindlayplayhouse.org Brrexpo - Stop by to visit various reptile and fish vendors at this exotic pet showcase. $5. 10am-4pm.

Back Road Reptiles Expo, 1400 6th St. 419-619-3598. brrexpo.com

4 Monday Discovery Story - Ages 3-5 will discover mushrooms and fungus with interactive displays and stories. Two classes 10am and 1pm. Oakwoods Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Lane.

419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free

Bowling for Kids

Children’s Mentoring Connection Bowling for Kids is their largest fundraising event of the year.

Money raised through the event enables CMC to match children in a professionally supported relationship with a caring adult. Bowling for Kids is a fun-filled event that provides companies, organizations, churches, schools and families the opportunity to show their support by raising dollars and awareness to support Children’s Mentoring Connection. Participate by forming a team of five or join the event as a single bowler where you’ll be assigned to a team that needs additional bowlers.

12pm, 1:30pm and 3pm, AMF Sportsman Lanes, 616 W. Trenton Ave., 419-424-9752, cmchancock.org

6 Wednesday Spectrum Support Group - All are welcome to this bi-weekly support group. Meet with others in the gay and trans community. Hosted by LGBQT+ Findlay. 7-8:30pm. Journey, 225 W. Bigelow Ave. 419-455-1896. spectrumoffindlaylgbt.org Free

Historic Cooking Demo - Witness traditional folk arts at the Log Cabin.

Visitors will watch as breakfast is cooked over the open fire at the Museum. Admission varies. 1-4pm.

Wood County Historical Museum, 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green. 419-352-0967. woodcountyhistory.org

3 Sunday

SATURDAY n MARCH 9 AND SUNDAY n MARCH 10

7 THURSDAY

8 Friday Fairy Paintings - Visit the fairy garden on site and paint a picture inspired by your visit. Ages 8-14. $15. 5-7pm.

577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. 419-874-4174.

577foundation.org Honk Jr. - Young actors grace the stage for a take on the Ugly Duckling tale. $13-$16. 7-8:30pm. Also, 2-3:30pm. Saturday, 3.9.

Marathon Center, 200 W. Main Cross St., Findlay. 419-423-2787. mcpa.org

TUESDAY n MARCH 19 Celebrity Basketball Game

The Blanchard Valley Center’s 4th Annual Celebrity Basketball game will take place on March 19, 2019. A collaborative game with VIPs from Findlay and Hancock County that play together to celebrate March as Developmental Disability Awareness Month, the players consist of the Mayor, fire fighters, police officers, members of the business community and persons with developmental disabilities.

This fun, family-friendly event continues to grow over the years.

7-9pm, UF Croy Gymnasium, 1000 N. Main St., 419-422-6387, blanchardvalley.org, “Blanchard Valley Center” on Facebook

SATURDAY n MARCH 23 The Very Hungry Caterpillar & Other Eric Carle Favorites

Cooper Tire Family Series: Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia presents three beloved stories by Eric Carle, awardwinning children’s book illustrator and author, retold on stage through the magic of black light and fanciful puppets. The Very Hungry Caterpillar follows the wonderful adventures of a very tiny and very hungry caterpillar as he eats his way through an amazing variety of foods on his path to becoming a beautiful butterfly.

High up in the sky, Little Cloud playfully transforms himself into various creatures, including a sheep, an airplane, a shark and more. The Mixed-Up Chameleon is bored with his life, sitting about, predictably changing color all day. Following an adventurous trip to the zoo, he attempts to emulate the beautiful animals he sees before coming to the conclusion that there is value in his own unique self.

10am-12pm, Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, 200 W. Main Cross St., 419-423-2787, mcpa.org, “Marathon Center for the Performing Arts” on Facebook

9 Saturday Family Concert - Create crafts inspired by music in the TMA Family Center then head to the concert with the family-friendly Spoleto Festival classical ensemble for a sing-a-long. 10am-noon.

Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. toledomuseum.org Free Painting Class - This educational and therapeutic class invites a student and grownup to paint and enjoy a light lunch. $40 per couple, $10 additional kid. Noon-1:30pm. Paint & Partake, 515 S. Main St. 419-302-3892. paintandpartake.org 36th Bowling For Kids - Teams of five compete in this fundraising event for Children’s Mentoring. Noon-4pm.

AMF Bowling, 616 Trenton Ave. 419-424-9752. hancockmentors.org

SATURDAY n MARCH 23

Kiwanis Pancake Day

Over the years, Kiwanis Pancake Day has become a tradition. Generations of families consider this annual event a “must attend.” The 2019 Kiwanis Pancake Day promises to be better than ever! Pre-sale tickets are available from any Kiwanian and at Bindel’s Appliances, AAA Findlay, and First Federal Bank on Patriot Drive in Findlay. Pre-sale tickets are $6 for adults and $5 for seniors (62 and older) and children (12 and under). At the door, prices increase by $1 each. Tickets grant entrance to the event along with all you can eat pancakes and sausage. In the past 60 years, an estimated 160,000 people have been served and more than $500,000 has been raised for various charitable organizations in Hancock County.

7am-1pm, Findlay High School, 1200 Broad Ave., findlaykiwanis.org, “Findlay Kiwanis” on Facebook

www.findlayfamily.com • March 2019 •

17

Historical Dinner Theatre - Prepare to be baffled by this hilarious plot from the 1847 play Box & Cox, performed by the Fort Findlay Playhouse actors while dinner is served. $38. Jones Mansion, 313 E. Sandusky St. 419-427-5915. jonesmansion.com Maple Breakfast at the Farm McKinnis Farm will host a pancake breakfast, served with freshly tapped maple syrup. Fruth’s Sugar House will be on hand to purchase maple syrup and candies. $5. 9-11am. Litzenberg Woods, 6100 US224. 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com

10 Sunday Greater Toledo Train & Toy Show - Shop and browse from over 250 toy and model train vendors.

From antique collector’s items to extensive model train layouts and train rides for the kids, this event is not to be missed. $6-$10. 9am-3pm.

Owens Community College, 30335 Oregon Rd., Perrysburg.

419-215-4181. toymasters.org Toledo Symphony Youth Orchestra Concert - The youth orchestra members will play along side their TSO counterparts for a special performance. $10. 4-6pm.

TMA Peristyle, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. toledosymphony.org

11 Monday Focus on Feelings - The Mazza Museum and Findlay-Hancock County Library CommunityREAD partner up to bring children and their families a fun way to talk about feelings through engaging activities such as a storytime, arts and crafts, puppets and more. 6-7:30pm. University of Findlay Virginia B. Gardner Fine Arts Pavilion, 1000 N. Main St. 800-472-9502. mazzamuseum.org Free

13 Wednesday Sensory Friendly Day - Every second Wednesday of the month, CMF will be set up for sensory friendly fun and games. 4:30-6pm. Children’s Museum of Findlay, 1800 Tiffin Ave. 567-250-9616. cmfindlay.com Free

14 Thursday BBQ Dinner Fundraiser - Proceeds from the dinner go to programming at Blanchard Valley Center. Enjoy a BBQ dinner from Harlan’s. $9 a plate. 4-6pm.

Blanchard Valley Center, 1700 E. Sandusky St. 419-422-6387. blanchardvalley.org

16 Saturday Little League Hockey - Ages 5-8 will get a crash course in hockey. The sessions include: equipment rental and fitting, Little Walleye jersey and free tickets to the Walleye game. $150. Times: 8:30am9:30am. Saturday 3.16, Sunday 3.24 and Saturday 3.30. Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave. 419-725-4367. hensvilletoledo.com Popovich Pet Theater - The comedy routine combines elements of the circus and America’s Funniest Videos as animals jump, skip and dance through an obstacle course and more. $19-$25. 2-4pm.

Marathon Center, 200 W. Main Cross St., Findlay. 419-423-2787. mcpa.org

18 Monday Wee Ones - Learn about the elusive salamander through stories and song.

For ages 3 and under. 10am and 1pm.

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

19 Tuesday “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” - Broadway in Toledo presents Roald Dahl’s story of young Charlie and his adventures with the mysterious Willie Wonka. $34-$84. 7:30pm. Additional shows through Saturday, 3.23. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd.

419- 381-8851. broadwayintoledo.com

20 Wednesday Cake Decorating with your Child Parent and child can sign up for a cake decorating class, open to beginners.

Decorate and take home the cake. $60.

5:30-7pm. Buggy Whip Cakes, 118 E. Sandusky St. 567-301-2203. buggywhipcakes.com

22 Friday Teen Game Night and Potluck Meet with other families for board games and dinner. Bring a dish to share. For more information contact Addaptco.

6-8pm. Salvation Army, 301 Center St. 567-250-2922. addaptco.org Free Night at the Museum - Camp out at the Historical Museum with friends overnight. Games and snacks will be provided. $40-$50. 7pm-8am.

Hancock History Museum, 422 W. Sandusky St. 419-423-4433. handcockhistoricalmuseum.org Couples’ Retreat - Grace Baptist will host an overnight marriage counselling retreat that uses teachings of the Bible to help solve problems. 5:30pm, Friday to Noon, Saturday, 3.23. $190. Drury Inn, 820 Trenton Ave. 937-293-7500. gracebaptistofkettering.org

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• March 2019 • www.findlayfamily.com

Vienna Boys Choir - One of the world’s finest choirs will perform at the MCPA. The Choir can trace its history back to the 13th Century.$20-$49.

7:30pm. Marathon Center, 200 W. Main Cross St., 419-423-2787. mcpa.org

26 Tuesday Music Therapy Group - Children of all abilities are welcome to enjoy Heartstring Melodies for a monthly session. Meets every fourth Tuesday. $10. 5:30-6:30pm. Heartstring Melodies Therapy, 219 Liberty St. 567-429-1909. heartstringmelodies.com

27 Wednesday High Yield Vegetable Gardening Find out what seeds to plant this year from proven winners to heirlooms that produce. $20. 6-8pm. 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. 419-874-4174.

577foundation.org

28 Thursday Maple Sugaring - A demonstration on the art of maple sugaring will be presented. Learn to tap, boil and bottle with the best of them. 10am-noon. Historic Carter Farm, 18331 Carter Rd., Bowling Green.

419-353-1897. wcparks.org Free

29 Friday International Night - Discover the different cultures of the world with food, cultural activities, crafts and much more!

5:30-8pm. University of Findlay Koehler Student Recreation Center, 1000 N. Main St. 800-472-9502. findlay.edu Free

30 Thursday The McCartney Project - Sing along at the concert, a tribute to Paul McCartney and the Beatles. $20-$30. 7:30-9:30pm.

Marathon Center, 200 W. Main Cross St., Findlay. 419-423-2787. mcpa.org

Mondays Mornings with Mommy Moms (as well as dads, grandparents, and nannies) join their little ones for an educational play date with arts and crafts, a devotion, sensory table, story time and music. Register in advance. $5 per family. 9:30-10:30am. Trinity Lutheran Church, 301 N. Main St., Jenera. 419-326-4685. tlcjenera.org Grief Program - Meet with Grief Recovery Specialist Ginny Williams for a four week program assisting persons who have lost a child.

5:30-7:30pm. Mondays, through 4.1. University of Findlay Alumni, 1000 N. Main St. 419-434-4516. findlay.edu Free

Tuesdays

Fami

Playgroup Days - Every Friday the Bluffton Library hosts an open play group for young children. 10am.

Bluffton Library, 145 S. Main St., Bluffton.

419-358-5016. blufftonpubliclibrary.org Drop & Date - This drop-off class allows you to take a night out in downtown while your children ages 4-13 have fun with arts, crafts, and socializing. $10. 6-8pm. Awakening Minds, 317 S. Main St. 419-302-3892. awakeningmindsart.org CF Youth Game Night - Join College First Youth Church of God for a weekly game night. Bring any games you’d like to play and your friends to tag along.

7-9pm. 2113 Lonetree Dr. 419-422-7365. collegefirst.org Free

Chill Zone - Teens and tweens can relax and play games after school. 3:30-4:40pm. Bluffton Library, 145 S. Main St., Bluffton.

419-358-5016. blufftonpubliclibrary.org Free

Community Dinner - Free meals are offered every Sunday by five churches in Findlay. Volunteers are always welcome.

11am-1pm. Visit socialfindlay.com for a list of participating venues.

We want to hear from you!

Vote for your favorite local people, places and spaces as Findlay Family’s annual Family Favorites.

Voting begins in March 15th

They can’t win without you!

findlayfamily.com

LINE 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).

MAIL OR DROP OFF:

Adams Street Publishing 1120 Adams St. Toledo, OH 43614

PHONE: 419-244-9859 E-MAIL: classifieds@adamsstreetpublishing.com Refunds: Sorry, NO REFUNDS given.

Misprints: Credit toward future ads.

Saturdays

orites

2018

Fridays

Teen Tuesdays - Teens in 6-12 grade can play games, eat snacks and meet kids from other schools at this weekly meetup. 3-4pm. TiffinSeneca Library, 77 Jefferson St., Tiffin. 419-447-3751. tiffinsenecalibrary.org Free

VOTING IS th OPEN MARCH 15 !

yl Fav

marketplace

Painting Class - Stop by to create a masterpiece with your child. For all ages and abilities. $10. 10-11am.

Awakening Minds, 317 S. Main St. 419302-3892. awakeningmindsart.org

Sundays

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NOW HIRING DRIVERS!!! Deliver Findlay Area Family magazine in Findlay. EXCELLENT PAY for Part Time Work. Please contact Eddie @ 419.244.9859 or eknight@adamsstreetpublishing.com

HERE’s YOUR CHANCE AT “ME TIME” (Once you ship the kids off to one of our great camps)

ISSUE DATE: Apr. 1st SPACE RESERVATION BY: Mar. 15th RESERVE SPACE NOW!! Call 419.244.9859 or Email Sales@AdamsStreetPublishing.com

www.findlayfamily.com • March 2019 •

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