Findlay Family November 2012

FREE November 2012

What

makes

p8

family

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l a i c e p s Special Needs Guide 17

p17

How to answer those embarrassing questions

E

Hot off the grill goodness at Five Guys Burgers & Fries

Darnedest 18 p things PA G

Why saying sorry to your child matters

Flippin' good

SE E

Too late to 14 p apologize?

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• November 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Adams Street Publishing Co.

Volume 2 • Issue 11 November 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

Social Media Specialist

Amanda Goldberg: agoldberg@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Contributing Writers

Rose Roccisano Barto, David Coehrs

Advertising

Sales Manager

Aubrey Hornsby: ahornsby@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Account Executive

Joe Baker: jbaker@findlayfamily.com

Art/Production Art Director

Kristi Polus: kristi@adamsstreetpublishing.com

departments 5 6 7 18 20

23

community snapshots

commentary 13 mother mayhem 15 parent profile

Posy with purpose

what’s briefly happening new kids on the block likewise — compiled by Julian Garcia

marketplace

Graphic Design

14 family planet

The real magic word

calendar

Megan Anderson: mandersons@adamsstreetpublishing.com Sarah Baird: production@adamsstreetpublishing.com Karin Cassavar: kcassavar@findlayfamily.com Brittney Koehl: adsin@findlayfamily.com Jamieson Staneluis

Grand life of a mentor — by Mary Helen Darah

features

What

Classified Sales

Emily Gibb: classifieds@findlayfamily.com

Administration Accounting

Robin Armstrong: rarmstrong@findlayfamily.com

Distribution

Publisher’s Assistant

Office Assistant

Marisa Rubin: mrubin@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Dr. Lauren Thorington races for a cure — by David Coehrs

17 food fight

Say cheese ... burger

Five Guys Burgers & Fries flips a near perfect one — by Rose Roccisano Barto

p8

family

my

Sales Coordinator

Jan Thomas: jthomas@adamstreetpublishing.com

Fast friends

makes

Shannon Reiter: sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Michele Flanagan: distribution@toledoparent.com

The importance of saying sorry — by Rose Roccisano Barto

Photo Credit: Laura Enright Photography

Charles Pina, 3, of Findlay Want to see your child on Findlay Area Family’s next cover? We do too! Email your photos to production@ adamsstreetpublishing.com

special

Special Needs Guide

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.

Cutest Kids

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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

We got so many cute kid submissions.

Check out some more!

JL Sm Photo by

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aphy

Audited by

r inner of ou he's the w S ! y la d in ) of F Orwick (4 acebook. to Mariah s n ontest on F o c ti la id K tu st te u C Congra 's Findlay Top: Piper Pedersen, 22 months, Left: Shelby Craig, 6 yrs Right: Owen Eckenrode, 10 yrs

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• November 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

sponsored by Fall weather fun!

Findlay area kids made the most of the last warm days of the year!

Zoey Gutierrez, 6, recently won Miss Ohio in the National American Miss pageant and is headed to California for Thanksgiving to compete in a national convention.

Good luck, Zoey!

Gabe Salazar, 7 Alex Salazar, 5 at the pumpkin patch

Cohen Perkins 5, and Zoe Perkins 18 months

Apple-a-string challenged these young competitors at Harvest the Past in Litzenberg October 7

Apple cider pressing demonstrations were part of the fun at Harvest the Past in Litzenberg

www.findlayfamily.com • November 2012 •

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On point

A new vision of the Christmas classic “The Nutcracker” will dance its way into Findlay just in time for the holiday season – and for the first time in 10 years. More than 46 local dancers, ranging in age from six to 36, will perform alongside professionals in the Photo by: Inspiring Images production, sponsored by the Arts Partnership and staged by Neos Dance Theatre. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. November 30 and 2 p.m. December 1 at Central Auditorium. It’s the first chance to see “The Nutcracker” in Findlay since 2002, when the Minnesota Ballet told the tale of Clara/Marie and her Nutcracker prince. This time, though, the story is different — instead of being set in 1800s Germany, it is set in World War II Ohio. It will also include features unique to Findlay. “I wanted this to be very relevant to our world, our communities,” says Bobby Wesner, co-founder and artistic director of Neos and production choreographer. “I’m hoping this new retelling gives the audience an opportunity to have ownership of what they see.” Tickets are $15 for students, $25 for adults and $22 and $23 for seniors, and can be purchased through the Arts Partnership by calling 419-422-3412 or by visiting www.artspartnership.com. —RB

It’s in the bag

Take a chance, and maybe win some fancy accessories, as Read For L.I.F.E. (Literacy Is For Everyone) presents a Purse Bingo fundraiser on Thursday, November 8 at Alexandra’s. You know how to play bingo, of course — but this time you’ll be winning designer handbags, from topnotch names like Coach, Donna Karan, Kate Spade and Dooney and Bourke.

There’ll be some hors d’oeuvres to snack on and a cash bar while you help raise money for Read for L.I.F.E.’s pro-literacy efforts in Hancock county. Get a free grab bag at the door, and win raffle prizes donated by local businesses like Cedar Valley Café and Zumba Fitness. 18 and over only, please, so it’ll be a grown-up good time. Tickets are available at Read For L.I.F.E.’s office at 206 Broadway, at Trends! on Main, at the University of Findlay’s box office and at Readmore’s Hallmark. $25 or $190 for a table of 8. (You can buy additional bingo cards for $5, to boost your chances!) 7-9pm. (Doors open at 6:30.)

132 E. Crawford St. 419-425-3515. www.adultreadhc.org. —MD

More reasons to give thanks

November is National Adoption Awareness Month, and Keeping Kids Safe has teamed up with Photos

by Jenni Lee to make sure that you mark your calendars — literally. Lee uses local children as models to produce images inspired by movies and past eras and icons for her 2013 fundraising calendar. This life-changing piece of art costs $20, with 50% of all proceeds going directly to KKS, a private, nonprofit foster care agency that serves Northwest Ohio. Lee’s photos feature children modeling such iconic images as the “We Can Do It” pose and scenes from The Sandlot, The Karate Kid, Sixteen Candles, and Titanic.

The images are awfully cute, but also symbolic — as are the morals that KKS uses to empower their children to thrive emotionally, socially, cognitively and physically. Jenni and the people behind Keeping Kids Safe, Inc. make sure that November is a month that gives Findlay residents more than one reason to give thanks. Calendars are available through photosbyjennilee. com or by calling 567-278-1130.

–CC Photos By JenniLee 567-278-1130 photosbyjennilee.com 6

• November 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Locket love

It’s called the living locket, and its charms reflect the essence of the woman wearing them. Andrea Mason embraced that idea so fully she is now designing and selling this unique, customized product as a sales representative for the social selling jewelry business Origami Owl. “I was automatically drawn to the locket,” Andrea says. “It’s personal.”

The lockets are transparent and, Andrea Mason hopes to team up with with a single glance, tell an individual’s life her daughter in the future and show her how story through separately-sold, personalized to be a successful entrepreneur charms, stones and metal plates placed inside. The tokens are themed for occupations, hobbies, music, sports, travel and heartfelt causes, among others, and can be mixed and matched to specifically describe who you are.

Andrea is authorized by Arizona-based Origami Owl to design token combinations within the lockets, but to offer the full experience she hosts in-home parties where guests can design and purchase their own unique creations.

She offers living lockets through her current inventory, her Facebook page and her website. She also sells wish lockets — adorable fortune-cookie versions of necklaces, with encouraging messages tucked inside charms.

Inspired by Origami Owl’s start — a 14-year-old girl with $350 in babysitting money began the business in 2010 — Andrea would like to team with her own daughter in the future. “I want to show her how to be an entrepreneur, and learn young,” says the Kentucky native, who’d operated scrapbooking and toy animal home businesses before finding Origami Owl. “To see me out there would give her insight into what it would be [like].”

Prices range from $20 for simpler styles to $38 for stainless steel and goldplated necklaces. To arrange a home party, call 419-429-1695. For purchases, visit mason.origamiowl.com. —DC

Zooming towards fitness

Are you ready to Zumba, and get fit and footloose at the same time? Check out Z Pulse, Findlay’s only Zumba studio, at 222 South Main St. Since opening in March, co-owner Charro Saad says the studio has grown to more than 20 classes per week in Zumba, yoga and core fitness disciplines. Zumba is an exercise class that includes Latin-inspired dance moves set to hot, current music. But it’s more than just another workout, Saad says. “It’s fun and it’s fitness,” says Saad, who co-owns the studio with her husband Ali. “It’s a party, not a workout.”

Saad says she and her husband have always been involved with dance and athletics, and found Zumba. They loved it so much they became certified to teach, and now Z Pulse owners Charro and Ali Saad have five instructors at the studio.

Childcare is offered for the morning classes, and more information on class schedules can be found at Saad’s Zumba website, charrosaad.zumba.com/zpulse-schedule. The studio has grown to more than 1,000 students through word of mouth and its Facebook page. The studio offers month and punch card specials. Those wanting to try a class can do so for $4 a class. For more information on the studio or the schedule search “Z Pulse” on Facebook, visit www.zpulsestudio.com or call 419-423-5880. —RB

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What

s e k ma

y l i fam

my

l a i spec Katelyn Doolittle

Ryan Kauffman

Every little one is unique in their own way — some face more challenges than others. In our first-ever issue dedicated to families with special needs, we take a peek inside the homes of three Findlay area families and learn their struggles and triumphs.

By Rose Roccisano Barto Photos by Laura Enright

Hannah Herold

Our personal trials, they will come and go, and you can put them on a shelf for a while ... these kids don’t have a choice.

They can’t put their trials on a shelf and walk away. When you look at it that way, you have to have more compassion and more patience.” —­ Deb Kauffman 8

• November 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

The Kauffmans: Deb, Ryan, Denny and Jacob

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Ryan Kauffman, 11

Reading between the lines — living with Asperger’s syndrome

Sometimes things get lost in translation for Ryan Kauffman.

An innocent comment that “it’s raining cats and dogs outside” can frustrate him. Cats and dogs aren’t falling out of the sky, so he doesn’t understand why people would say they are.

There are times, however, that the norms of society click and it makes sense.

“One day he came home and said ‘I’m on cloud nine — that’s a joke, right?’” says his mother, Deb Kauffman. “That’s when we knew he got it.”

Understanding a simple figure of speech was a big deal for Ryan, 11, who was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder as a toddler. Asperger’s is marked by significant difficulty in social interaction and communication, which can make every day situations challenging.

The challenge for the Kauffman family began even before Ryan was diagnosed.

“I used to call him my little Mowgli — he was a wild child when we first got him,” says Kauffman of Ryan, who started life with the family as a foster child. “He didn’t like to be touched. I would pick him up and he’d try to scratch my face. The first day I met him I knew something was going on with him.”

The Kauffmans, of McComb, met Ryan’s diagnosis with relief. There was a reason for the acting out, for the anger, for the actions that might have labeled him a bad kid. Instead, after much trial and error, Ryan is on a mix of three medications that help the Asperger’s and ADHD. The dosage gets adjusted often, and seemingly innocuous things such as gaining weight or hitting puberty will affect the medications’ effectiveness. At one point Ryan, a McComb fifth-grader, needed yet another pill to sleep.

It’s a constant vigilance that can be wearing on a mom or dad, but it’s just something a parent does. In addition to food,

shelter and love, some kids needs a special advocate to help them with conditions they never asked for but have to live with nonetheless.

“You can’t beat it out of them and you can’t love it out of them,” says Kauffman. “Once he escalates it’s hard to bring him down.”

In the meantime, the Kauffmans have learned to live with a boy who sometimes acts out at school and gets frustrated at not understanding many of the social cues most people take for granted. At the same time, however, Ryan has a big heart and has learned to apologize when he is wrong.

He is great with the family pets, and often he will be found sitting peacefully with his cats.

Another person who lives with the diagnosis is Ryan’s brother Jacob, age 10. If the two are playing a video game and Ryan gets agitated, the game gets shut off for both of them. If kids at school say something about his big brother, Jacob stands up to them. During times of turmoil, the focus shifts to Ryan.

“I know Jake gets left behind,” she says. “He’s learned to like baking because I bake with him. Ryan doesn’t like baking.”

The family’s experiences led them to open Ryan’s Place, a nonprofit Christian-based retreat center in McComb for children with special needs. The informal setting is a safe place for children to learn social skills and have fun without fear of judgment.

While Ryan has things to learn, he has also taught those around him.

“Our personal trials, they will come and go, and you can put them on a shelf for a while,” says Kauffman. “These kids don’t have a choice. They can’t put their trials on a shelf and walk away. When you look at it that way, you have to have more compassion and more patience.”

Ryan has a big heart and has learned to apologize when he is wrong.

continued on pg 10

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continued from pg 9

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All in the family: Hannah with her parents, Greg and Karen Herold, and brothers Kyle and Will

Hannah Herold, 15

Finding joy while facing with the challenges of Rett syndrome

Hannah Herold has a busy life like any teenager.

She ice skates, takes art lessons and goes horseback riding. She has chores that include setting the table each night and walking the family dog, Libby. Unlike other teens, however, Hannah is just beginning to read at age 15. She still struggles with some fine motor skills, and is currently an eighth grader at Glenwood Middle School.

It is a life that her parents, Karen and Greg Herold, weren’t sure she would have after she was diagnosed with Rett syndrome at age 5. Rett syndrome is a disorder of the nervous system that almost exclusively affects girls, and is often misdiagnosed as autism or cerebral palsy. It is marked by communication difficulties, developmental delays and an unsteady gait.

“We went to see several pediatricians who told me I was a first-time mother and I didn’t know any better and nothing was wrong,” says Karen Herold, of Findlay.

“But I could tell there was because she just wasn’t like the other kids at playgroup.”

After almost three years of examinations, a blood test revealed that Rett syndrome was responsible for Han-

nah’s slowed speech development, reluctance to walk and other difficulties. The Herolds — then a family of three — huddled inside their home for an entire weekend, digesting news that would change them forever.

Whatever self-pity they might have indulged in soon turned into purpose.

tion Hannah participates in which provides ice skating opportunities to those living with disabilities. He also makes and sells paracord bracelets, with a portion of the proceeds going to Rett research. The family has co-chaired the annual Live Rett Free 5K Run in Findlay which raises funds for research.

In many ways, they wouldn’t be the family they are today without Hannah. Friendships are gained or lost depending on how accepting people are of Hannah. But while the family rallies around one member, it’s also been able to reach out to others.

“She has been a true blessing to our family. She has made us grow together as a family, and reach out to others who are struggling with disabilities,” says Herold. “She’s brought us a lot of joy.”

Hannah, her mother says, has matured into a sweet young lady who is well-behaved and joyful.

That selflessness and purity of heart is obvious in Hannah, whose ready smile is both endearing and a reminder that — despite its challenges — life is good.

“Hannah is the happiest person I’ve ever met.

She never has a sad moment,” says Herold. “She only sees the good in life, and that would be a blessing for anyone.”

Hannah has been a true blessing to our family. She has made us grow together and reach out to others who are struggling with disabilities...

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“We decided to put our best foot forward,” says Herold. “We kept her in a special needs preschool and speech therapy, and upped the level. We’ve never given up on her. We knew there was a lot of potential for her.”

The Herolds went on to have two sons — Kyle, 13, and Will, 6. The brothers are protective of their sister, and in turn are compassionate about her struggles. Kyle has become a volunteer for Gliding Stars, an organiza-

• November 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

A Helping Special Advertising Section

hand

Area providers help navigate the special needs experience, from finances to treatment

Hoverman Insurance

Dennis, Shauna and Katelyn Doolittle

Katelyn Doolittle, 10

Mapping new dreams — new goals after Angleman syndrome diagnosis

Katelyn — and themselves. A child with special needs often faces a long journey of therapy and doctors, but so does the rest of the family. The Doolittles decided to stop at one child, in part, because they had a 50 percent chance of having another child with Angelman syndrome.

Along the way, however, they have realized new dreams.

“With Angelman syndrome a big problem is with balance and gait, so for an Angelman child to be running is a miracle in itself,” says Shauna Doolittle, of Findlay. “She’s nonverbal, so she has been working with an iPad. She’s more interested right now in moving the buttons around, but it’s a start.”

Though she does not speak, Katelyn makes her wishes known. If she wants a glass of water, she will go to the refrigerator for it. If something is out of reach, she will motion for someone to help her. She loves her baby dolls and conspiring with Bella during playtime. An easy smile and a ready belly laugh are big parts of Katelyn’s personality.

While the family has been challenged

by Katelyn’s needs, it has also been blessed. Shauna and Dennis Doolittle have learned the art of patience and the gift of generosity. Little things — such as the delight Katelyn found in popping her birthday balloons — are not taken for granted in the Doolittle house. “[Before Katelyn] I was quick to write people off,” says Dennis Doolittle. “I think Katelyn opened my eyes a bit — things do change, things do improve. She’s helped me be a better person.”

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Eight years ago, Dennis Doolittle had to say goodbye to the dreams he had for his daughter Katelyn.

“Everything just flashed in front of my eyes,” he said. “Will I ever get to walk her down the aisle? Will she go to prom? The things we hoped would happen for her.”

That was when Katelyn, now 10, was diagnosed with Angelman syndrome, a genetic disorder that is marked by developmental delays, lack of speech and walking and balance disorders. It occurs in one out of every 15,000 live births. It is often misdiagnosed as cerebral palsy or autism, and those with the syndrome require lifelong care.

Out of the darkness of diagnosis, however, came a little light that continues to burn brightly.

That light is Katelyn herself. The toddler who couldn’t walk when she was first diagnosed is now a tween who almost runs to keep up with her cockapoo, Bella. What Angelman syndrome took away has been replaced by a new dream of a Katelyn who will be able to do as much as she can for herself.

Katelyn was 22 months old when she was diagnosed with Angelman syndrome through a blood test, after rounds of visits with specialists. Before that, her mother Shauna noticed her left eye wandering and other things that didn’t seem quite right. She wasn’t pulling herself up, and neither babbling nor waving the way a typical toddler would.

After the shock of diagnosis came the letting go of the life they wished for

I think Katelyn opened my eyes a bit — things do change, things do improve.

She’s helped me be a better person.

115 W. Main St., McComb 419-293- 2716 Hoverman Insurance is an independent agency primarily selling auto, home, farm, business, flood and life insurance.

State Support Team Region 1

2275 Collingwood Blvd. Suite C, Toledo 419-720-8999 www.sstr1.org The State Support Team Region 1 services are provided to educators, parents and families in 13 northwest Ohio counties in the focus areas of school improvement, special education compliance, postsecondary transition, early learning and school readiness, and parent and family involvement.

United Way of Hancock County

245 Stanford Parkway 419-423-1432 www.uwhancock.org Our work is based on the provision of safety net services to meet crisis needs while also working on long-term solutions in the areas of education, income, and health. These are the building blocks for a good life--a quality education that leads to a stable job, enough income to support a family through retirement, and good health and well-being for a more productive life.

Findlay City Schools

1219 W. Main Cross 419-497-5488 www.findlaycityschools.org Our preschool program provides a continuum of services for students with disabilities ranging from the preschool classrooms in the public schools to itinerant services at home or in a private preschool or daycare. The Findlay Enrichment Program works in partnership with the Findlay City Schools and area businesses to encourage, develop and coordinate a variety of classes, events and programs held within the schools and community.

Blanchard Valley Center

1700 East Sandusky St. 419-422-6387 www.blanchardvalley.org Blanchard Valley Center provides support for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, and promotes independence through their extensive adult and children’s services.

Examples include school-to-work transition services for adults and early intervention for children.

Memorial Hospital

1100 E. Main Cross, Suite 203 419-424-2011 memorialhcs.org/mental-health The Memorial Hospital Center for Mental Health & Well-being has a full-time staff of mental health professionals that provie mental health services in Fremont.

Services available include individual counseling for children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics, couples counseling, family counseling, and medication management.

Special Kids Therapy

1700 E. Sandusky 419-422-5607 specialkidstherapy.org Special Kids Therapy (SKT) is a non-profit charity that is dedicated to assisting special health care needs children and their families obtain alternative therapies or necessities that have the potential to significantly enhance the quality of life for the child. SKT will assist families with the purchase of special medical equipment, such as electrical wheelchairs and other mobility aids, communication devices, auditory equipment, etc. that is needed for inclusion in daily living but not covered by insurance.

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• November 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

A posy with a purpose

The grand life of an 89-year-old mentor

By Mary Helen Darah

It seems as if my meeting Rose Ann, a.k.a. Posy, was somehow always in the cards. I am a believer in the notion that people come into your life for a “reason,” a “season” or a “lifetime,” and even though I met Posy just before her 89th birthday, I knew she was a “lifer.”

Posy is the dressing on a cold winter’s day; layers upon layers upon layers. She is a woman of philanthropy in staggering proportions. She has helped in acquiring treasures for the Toledo Museum of Art, purchased original book illustrations to delight children and grace the walls of the main branch of the Toledo Lucas County Public Library, founded the Blair Museum of Lithophanes (I would still be clueless as to what the heck a lithophane is if not for Posy), and delighted many a development director from her beloved University of Toledo to the opera with her generosity. This founder of Gateway Preschool (who still bumps into her former “kids” wherever we go) has opened her heart and her checkbook to those in need without blinking an eye. Yet this same woman spends HOURS deciding which of two blouses to purchase for herself at Steinmart, fights with me over the lifespan of items in her fridge and occasionally splurges on Irish butter even though it’s nearly four bucks

a pound. Just when I thought I had her figured out, I was on the receiving end of a firm “Dearie what WERE you thinking?” upon my return from purchasing the smallest vodka bottle for Posy and her companions.

It blows my mind that a near-90year-old downloads photos off her computer when my own mother’s tech savvy is limited to playing spider solitaire on her new laptop. Posy is “with it,” hip by any standard and loves to shock me with her keen wit. Once after venting about a gentleman I briefly dated invading my private text messages she said with a wink, “This is why I don’t put my lovers’ contact info in my cell phone.” Posy is also spontaneously adventurous. She quickly learned that if you express a desire to see your great-grandchildren me, a fellow cancer survivor, a “bucket trip” will surely follow. We loaded up my Ford DGE (it was an EDGE until my youngest backed into the mailbox and lost the “E”), with chocolate, water bottles, “The Hunger Games” book on tape, massive amounts of Advil and my 14-year-old exchange student from China and hit the road to our nation’s capital. Let me tell you, massive bonding occurs after spending hours in a closed vehicle, breaking only to visit turnpike restrooms.

Posy comes to mind when I think of the poem Nadine Stair wrote when she was 85. “If I had my life to live over, I would take more chances, I would take more trips. I would climb more mountains, swim more rivers and watch more sunsets.” Our Posy does not need a “do over” life. She has lived life to the fullest with an “attitude of gratitude.” She has traveled to parts of the globe that I don’t know how to pronounce or find without a Google assist. There is a world map in her office where she and her beloved late husband Bob put thumb tacks (a.k.a. push pins *pronounced puuuush piins, to my Southern brother) to mark all the places they ventured. While helping her tidy up her desk (a daunting task when you are dealing with a sentimental freak

of nature) we discovered photos of her on an ostrich, camel, elephant, gondola, and dune buggy. The woman was willing to ride anything (okay, that didn’t come out right, but you get the picture).

Last year Posy, a two time cancer survivor, received the news that the disease had returned. She decided to brave surgery despite the concerns of many. She knew it would be a tough recovery but told me, “I’m not ready for it to end. I’ve had a grand time! I have much more living to do.” That she does, and when she finally leaves this world for her next big adventure, I’m sure my “Posy with a Purpose” will be waiting on the other side, cocktail in hand, hoping I have the courage to use up every blessing, every talent and every opportunity I have had at my disposal before joining her.

www.findlayfamily.com • November 2012 •

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The real magic word

The importance of saying sorry

by Rose Roccisano Barto

I freely admit that sometimes I lose it as a parent.

Maybe I am having a bad day, or someone says something with just a little too much attitude. In those instances, I’ve been known to speak sharply to my children in the heat of the moment. I’ve never disciplined them physically, but sometimes the words can hurt just as much and be remembered long after the infraction is over.

What do I do? I apologize to them.

The three most important words in parenting aren’t “I love you.” They are “I am sorry.”

I don’t apologize for things like making them go to bed on time or eating a healthy dinner when they’d rather have ice cream. Those are just things we do as parents that are never going to be appreciated. I apologize for things I do that are unfair, not nice or just plain uncalled for.

Those instances are not so traumatizing that they require therapy or a talk show appearance, but neither are they shining moments in parenthood.

Over the years I’ve carped at a kid for losing a scarf we got for free, forgetting a schoolbook that could easily have been brought home the next day, and eating a cheese stick in the living room.

Just really stupid, minor, petty stuff that wasn’t a big deal at the time, would never be a big deal, but was made one by yours truly.

In those cases, I apologize. I ask for forgiveness. My kids, bless them, always offer it. It’s the parental version of time out, and it stinks. But I feel it’s necessary to apologize to my children.

Some parents might feel they send mixed messages by apologizing, that they 14

• November 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

somehow loosen their stranglehold on power by admitting they did something wrong. My point is that there should be no such parental powerhouse. If you want your children to respect others, you have to respect them. That means admitting when you’re wrong. None of the nonsensical “I’m sorry your feelings were hurt.” That’s not a real apology. Be honest and say “I’m sorry I spoke rudely to you about losing the scarf. It wasn’t necessary, and I’m sorry.”

Gary Chapman, author of “The Five Love Languages,” says apology has a language all its own. First, you have to express regret over your words or actions. You then have to accept responsibility for your actions. You have to make it up to them somehow. You have to actually be genuinely sorry. Lastly, but probably most importantly, you have to ask forgiveness.

What a powerful message we send to our children when we apologize to them. Not only do they see we are not perfect, they learn the art of forgiveness.

They understand how completely and fully they are forgiven by us when they do something wrong, and they won’t be afraid to come to us when they’ve done something wrong. They understand why it is important to apologize, but also why it is important to forgive.

So while I strive to not have anything to apologize for, I know that is unrealistic. I know there will be days I will lose my temper, and carp. But I will remember the three most important words in parenting.

I am sorry.

Fast friends

Dr. Lauren Thorington races for a cure

by David J. Coehrs

As Dr. Lauren Thorington can attest, meaningful friendships can sprout from the most unlikely of circumstances.

When she diagnosed Findlay resident Jennifer Dillon with breast cancer in September of 2011, Dr. Thorington had no idea how many common threads they shared or how tightly their bond would be woven. But the shared experience of Jennifer’s illness and the similarities in their personal lives would draw them together as kindred spirits.

Dillon was among the patients Dr. Thorington diagnosed with cancer during her first week as Director of Mammography at Imaging Consultants & Integral Vein Institute within Blanchard Valley Hospital. A former Chicago resident, the radiologist had personally experienced the dread of her mother’s breast cancer diagnosis several years earlier.

“Watching [my mother] go through that, I feel like every time I

diagnose a patient it could be me,” she says. “I try to have a more personal approach, because to me it’s a personal disease.”

She assured 42-year-old Jennifer, wife of David and mom to Tyler, 12, and Alex, 10, that breast cancer treatment had advanced, and that Jennifer would live to watch her children become adults.

It was Dr. Thorington’s calming bedside manner and unwavering optimism that “kind of started to build our relationship,” she said.

Following a successful double mastectomy, Jennifer recovered quickly enough to resume her longtime running regimen within weeks. Last spring, she attended a silent auction to raise money for “Pelotonia,” an annual 100-mile bike trip held by the St. James Cancer Center at Ohio State University to fund cancer research.

She was surprised to see Dr. Thorington, who was invited by a friend.

The doctor was just as surprised to see Jennifer. “I felt it was a sign I should do this bike ride,” she explains.

She decided if those she knew and cared about fighting cancer could beat it “I can at least ride a bike. This is minor in comparison.”

After three months of rigorous training scheduled around her hectic work and family lives —“I quickly learned I had to buy padded shorts,” she laughs — Dr. Thorington completed the August event, which attracted over 6,000 cyclists, in nine hours. She says participating with Jennifer deepened their friendship.

Never before had she become such good friends with a patient.

“I felt like I could relate to Jennifer. I just felt an instant connection with her,” the doctor said.

Her new-found friend agrees. “I feel like we have things in common. She’s very down-to-earth. She’s a very neat person. A friendship with your doctor is definitely a unique situation.”

Both are anticipating a point when their schedules will coincide and their families can come together. Dr. Thorington looks forward to introducing Jennifer to her husband, Schuyler, and her boys, Gabe Watrous, 8, and Brody Watrous, 3.

“I see a lifelong friendship with Jennifer,” she says. “It seems natural with her. She stopped calling me Dr. Thorington and started calling me Lauren the first day after seeing her outside the hospital.”

Racing towards recovery, and friendship, above: Patient Jennifer Dillon and Dr. Lauren Thorington

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• November 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Say cheese … burger

Five Guys Burgers and Fries flips a near-perfect one

by Rose Roccisano Barto

Five Guys Burgers and Fries

1780 Tiffin Ave. 567-301-2023 fiveguys.com Open: Monday thru Sunday 11am-10pm

Push your fear of carbs to the curb when it comes to Five Guys Burgers and Fries.

Sure, you could leave without eating the french fries. But why? Since opening last year at 1780 Tiffin Ave., outside the Findlay Village Mall, this eatery has lived up to its reputation of some of the best burgers around. It also boasts some of the yummiest fries we’ve ever tasted, in heaping portions that you’ll be sure to bring home.

The brightly-lit restaurant is reminiscent of diners — red and white pendant lights hang down from the ceiling, and simple wooden tables and chairs are surrounded by a red and white checkered chair rail. As you enter the restaurant you are greeted with a sign that says where today’s potatoes are from. On the day we visited, they were from Linford Farms in Sugar City, Idaho. Order at the counter, and you can then wait for your order to be called while listening to rocking music of a certain generation — Pat Benatar, Roy Orbison and other artists your kids don’t recognize.

The menu isn’t big — it’s a half sheet of paper — but Five Guys focuses on a handful of things and does them well. Burgers, hot dogs, fries and a few sandwiches are what’s offered, along with your choice of 15 toppings.

My daughters ordered the Little Bacon Cheeseburger ($5.29), a single 100 percent beef patty. My husband ordered

the regular Bacon Cheeseburger ($6.89), which in the Five Guys world contains two beef patties. And there are options for non-meat eaters, as well. I ordered the Cheese Veggie Sandwich ($3.69) but could also have ordered grilled cheese or a veggie sandwich without the cheese.

And, of course, we ordered fries. We had been cautioned by a friend that if we ordered the large ($4.99) we had better be very, very hungry. So we ordered two regular portions ($2.99) for the four of us to share — one “Five Guys Style” and one Cajun style. We were a little nervous about the Cajun seasoning — only one of us likes food with a kick — but figured it was worth trying. My husband also ordered a hot dog ($3.59).

While we waited for our food we got our drinks at the space-age drink station. You can choose different varieties of name-brand base cola, and add flavorings to your heart’s content. I’ll admit this one stumped me for a minute until my 10 year old explained how it worked. I might be sheltered, but I was impressed that I could try raspberry Coke!

Everyone really enjoyed their food.

My husband remarked that he was expecting a more fast-food type burger, but it was just as good as any burger he’s had in fancier restaurants. The girls were quiet, which is always a good sign, and finished every bite. My veggie sandwich was really tasty. It was one of the few times I’ve gone to a meat-centric place with my family where I didn’t feel like I was stuck eating a salad or picking off part of my meal. It was full of grilled veggies and melted cheese on a bun, a nice option for those that don’t eat meat. My husband enjoyed his hot dog, saying it tasted just like the ones at the ballpark.

And about those fries? They arrived in a large paper bag,

which prompted me to ask my husband if they mistakenly gave us a larger order. Nope, that was what we ordered, with extra thrown in on top. More like a feedbag of fries. The Cajun order was just right — enough of a kick to know it’s there, but not so overwhelming to more delicate palates.

And it’s a good thing the fries arrived in a bag, since we ended up taking some of them home.

The only possible downside to Five Guys is that there is no dessert.

But it’s enough that Five Guys focuses on what it does best, and forgets the rest. And, really, there’s no downside to that.

THE SHORT COURSE Kid-friendly Yes To avoid wait Consider ordering online at www.fiveguys.com Noise level Fine Bathroom amenities Changing table in women’s restroom High Chairs Yes Got Milk No, but they do have punch and lemonade fountain drinks Kid’s menu? No, but a grilled cheese is available for kids who don’t like burgers and hot dogs Anything healthy for the kids?

Toppings include some veggies Food allergy concerns? Peanuts in the shell are available in the ordering line

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? !??!? ! !! !

“Mommy that lady is fat!”

“Mom is that a boy or a girl?”

Kids say the darnedest things — how to answer their comic questions.

By Rachael Moshman

“did you hear that lady fart?”

other party, though. Explain that everyone is different.

Point out someone else you know who has a disability, for example, "You know how Cousin Joey uses a prosthetic leg because he was in an accident? Lots of other people are either born with something special like that or have something happen to them later like Joey did.

It's just part of what makes each of us unique!"

We're a transracial family, so in our case, it's usually, "Look!!! Those brown kids have a white mom just like me!" I confirm what she said by saying, "Yes, they do look like our family!" An easy way to take the awkwardness out of the "why" questions is to turn it around. Respond with, "Why is your skin white?" You might also say, "I think her skin is beautiful. I love that no one looks the same."

"I'm afraid of him!"

Every parent has cringed in embarrassment as their child makes a socially unacceptable comment in public.

This typically done very loudly, of course. Children are rarely being malicious with their comments. They are simply trying to figure out the world around them.

However, it can be mortifying for the parent and hurt the feelings of the person the comment was directed at.

Here are some tips for handling some of the most common scenarios.

"What's wrong with him?"

My daughter recently asked this after noticing someone with an extreme skin condition. Sometimes the person (or their parent, if it's a child) might be willing to explain their condition. This creates a great learning opportunity for your child. Leave this up to the

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My husband frequently complains about smokers and guys who wear their pants with their underwear showing, so my daughter points these out as "bad people" in public. Use these situations as opportunities to reinforce your family values while explaining the need to respect other people's right to their own opinion. I often say, "You're right - we don't smoke in our family.

We think it is smelly and unhealthy. But it isn't illegal and deciding to smoke doesn't make someone a bad person."

"That lady is fat!"

I've been overweight my whole life, so I've been on both sides of this one. I know firsthand that the way a parent handles the child's comment often determines the extent of hurt feelings or offense being taken. Parents who make a huge deal of it and march their child over to apologize have humiliated me even more. That show was for their benefit and they didn't take my feelings into account. The best way I observed it being handled was by a mother who playfully exclaimed, "And you're tiny! So what? Everyone is different!" I've adapted a similar strategy whenever my daughter points out someone's differences.

Children are curious and have lots of questions.

They will embarrass you at times - it's inevitable. Look at these situations as teaching moments and model how to respectful to the differences and feelings of others.

“why’s that man stinky?”

My daughter has a strange fear of little people.

I have no idea where it came from, but it is intense. A little person sat at the table beside us in a food court and she burst into tears while repeating, "I'm scared!" I moved to the other side of the table to sit next to her and whispered in her ear that she was safe. Luckily, the person didn't seem to notice she was talking about him. If he had, I would have explained that my daughter has an irrational fear and that we're working on getting her past it. When the person obviously has heard your child, it's responsible to quickly and quietly acknowledge the situation, even if you want to run in horror.

• November 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

"He's a bad person!"

Rachael Moshman is a mom, freelance writer and blogger. She lives with her husband, daughter, three cats and a mannequin named Vivian. Find her at www.rachaelmoshman.com.

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

Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

Friday, November 9 Sunday, November 11

Auntie Mame

The Ritz Teen Thespian Guild kicks off their fifth season with a production of one of America’s favorite broadway musicals. Auntie Mame is a warm-hearted comedy based on the novel by Patrick Dennis and inspired by his real life aunt. An entire cast of young performers from area high schools bring their hard work and talent together for this theatre classic. The musical follows the eccentric life of Auntie Mame and through her whimsical adventures her devotion and love of her nephew is revealed. Friday & Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. $10 adult / $5 students. The Ritz Theatre, 30 South Washington St., Tiffin. 419-448-8544. www.ritztheatre.org—JG

1 THURSDAY Fall Foliage - This is the last program of the new series to enjoy the beautiful fall colors while discovering autumn plants that have not been recorded before.

Help expand the HPD flora and fauna accumulative lists through these continued monitoring hikes. Must be at least 18 to participate. 1pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-4257275. www.hancockparks.com National Day of Listening Prep The National Day of Listening happens every year on the day after Thanksgiving.

Sponsored by StoryCorps, it’s a day when Americans are encouraged to listen to loved ones’ stories. Learn some interviewing techniques and good questions to ask at this prep session for teens and adults.

Registration required. 6-7pm. FindlayHancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org Gallery of Opportunity - Owens Community College Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery continues its fall art exhibition season with the works of regional artist Jodi Wasinski. The exhibit, titled “Gallery of Opportunity”, will showcase Wasinski’s unique process of blending image, ink and handmade paper into masterful prints and artistic expressions.

Wasinski specializes in creating her own handmade paper from various native plants, including hostas and daylily leaves, and ink from dry pigments.

Through November 16. Free. Findlay-area Campus Library Gallery, 3200 Bright Rd. 567-429-3088. www.owens.edu

2 FRIDAY Artwalk - Stroll through Historic Main Street in Downtown Findlay and enjoy the original work of local artists at galleries including the Findlay Art League Gallery, Jones Building Artist Studios, Red Tornado Studio, Gaslight Gallery, and Kan Du Studio, as well as several other downtown retail venues. Visit local merchants offering extended hours, special sales, samples, art displays and live demonstrations. Then, savor the cuisine offered at area restaurants. ArtWalk is a great way to spend an enjoyable evening with your friends and family. 5-9pm. Downtown Findlay. www.artspartnership.com 20

• November 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

4 SUNDAY Hands-on History - It’s nutty at the McKinnis Farm! Meet the living history interpreters as they make walnut stain and dye, and bake walnut sweet treats in the kitchen. 1:30pm. Litzenberg Memorial Woods, 6100 U.S. Route 224. 419-4257275. www.hancockparks.com 2nd Annual Countdown to Christmas Vendor Showcase - Shop early for Christmas and support a wonderful group of teens! Vendors include jewelry, baked goods, photography, crafts and more. Many vendors will be offering one-day only specials. Dinner and raffle prizes will also be available. All proceeds benefit Children of the Light Summer Ministry Tour. Receive free raffle ticket just for coming! 4-7pm. Lighthouse, US Rt 224. www.childrenofthelight.org

5 MONDAY Discovery Story: Animal Teeth Program includes a story, activities and a craft. Recommended for children three to six years old with an adult companion.

Other age siblings welcome. 10:30am & 1pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com Diary of a Wimpy Kid Party Celebrate the World of Wimpy Kid and the new book. There will be crafts, games and snacks. For children grades 2-8.

6-7pm. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-4221712. www.findlaylibrary.org Work on Reading with Tango and Drysdale - Have fun reading with some furry friends. They love listening to stories!

This event occurs weekly on Tuesday and Wednesday. 6-7pm. Free. FindlayHancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org

8 THURSDAY Creative Writing and fun for Teens This program is filled with games, writing exercises and fun. Snacks will be provided. Registration required. 7-8pm.

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

World of Downtown Restaurants Enjoy a self-guided, walking tour celebrating the fabulous cuisine in downtown Findlay. Passports should be purchased in advance and are your invitation for one sample of food from each participating restaurant. Proceeds benefit the United Way of Hancock County. Passports are on sale at Coffee Amici. 5-9pm. $20.

Downtown Findlay. www.uwhancock.org

9 FRIDAY Homeschool Show What You Know! - Here’s an opportunity for homeschooled students (K-12) to “Show Whatt You Know!” Come to the library for a Homeschool show and tell. Each student will have approximately 5 minutes to share a project, read a report or their own creative writing, present their artwork, or demonstrate something they’ve learned how to do. Presentation and active listening skills will be introduced.

Registration required. 2-3:30pm. FindlayHancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org Farm Fun - Children will enjoy stories, songs and activities that focus on farming and agriculture. Presented by members of the Block and Bridle Club of the University of Findlay. For ages 2-8 years old and their caregivers. 7:30-8pm. FindlayHancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org 1-2-3 Knit With Heater McDonnell Children ages 8-14 can learn to knit. No experience needed. Registration required.

4-4:45pm. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-4221712. www.findlaylibrary.org

10 SATURDAY

15 THURSDAY

Family Movie Saturday - Movies will be shown for the whole family. Nov. 10, Madagascar 3; Nov. 17, Brave; Nov. 24, Arthur Christmas.1:30-4:30pm. FindlayHancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org St. Michael Rosary Altar Society 58th Annual Christmas Bazaar Shop homemade baked goods, handcrafted gift items, handmade apparel, holiday decor, jewelry and other unique gift items. They’ll be serving homemade Mexican, café food and gourmet coffee bar. Entertainment includes raffles, live music, Santa visits, kids crafts, and more.

9am-3pm. Free. St. Michael’s School, 750 Bright Rd. 419-423-2909 2nd Annual 5K Pumpkin Fun Run/ Walk - It’s time for the 2nd Annual Pumpkin Fun Run/Walk sponsored by Hancock Youth Leadership. Registration opens at 8am and closes at 8:45am the day of the event. If you catch the Pumpkin Runner, your fee will be refunded! All proceeds benefit Hancock Youth Leadership.

8am. $5. The Pavilion at Riverside Park, 231 McManness Ave. www.FindlayHancockAlliance.com

13 TUESDAY Teen Movie Night - Come hang out at the library and watch a teen movie with friends and do an activity related to the movie. Teens must have a parent permission form on file to attend. Movie titles will be listed in the library closer to the date.

Registration required. 5:45-8pm. FindlayHancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org

Holiday Foods - Yes, it is here again, those turkey cooking holidays. It is time to review food safety tips and plan for the holidays. Karen McDougall, Hancock County Ohio State University Extension Office, will be presenting this free class.

Register to get ready for the holidays and take home new recipes. Adults only. 4:305:30pm. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-4221712. www.findlaylibrary.org

18 SUNDAY Hands-on Nature: Journey to the Stars - Blastoff to outer space and explore the constellations found in the night sky inside the new portable planetarium. Shows will take place every 15 minutes. All ages are welcome to learn more about the stars and the moon. Youth can play in a “spaceship,” make their own astronaut helmet, and more. 1pm.

Oakwooods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com Hands-on History: Sweet Treats Get into the holiday spirit with the McKinnis family as they prepare 19th century desserts and candies. Mrs. Poe will be showing how salt water taffy is made in the kitchen and the girls will be making decorations for an upcoming holiday party. Come and join in on the fun!

1:30pm. Litzenberg Memorial Woods, 6100 U.S. Route 224. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com

Cont. on pg 22

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Cont. from pg 21

MONDAY-FRIDAY

Mom & Tot Skate, Bring the little ones to the Cube for open ice skating MondayFriday. 10am-11am. $2 child/$3 adult skates included. The CUBE, 3430 N. Main St. 419-424-7176. www.findlayohio.com

TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS

Fall Story Time, Hear stories with songs and a simple craft. For all ages.

10:30-11:30am. Free. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St., Findlay. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org

TUESDAYS

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 Street, Findlay. 419-422-5415. www.campfireusa-nwohio.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., Findlay. 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., Findlay. 419-422-7847. www.findlayartleague.com

THURSDAYS

Jr. Teens in Action, This is for children grades six to eight. Curriculum is based on the Five Trails of Camp Fire USA. The Trail to Knowing Me. The Trail to Family and Community. The Trail to Creativity.

The Trail to the Environment. The Trail to the Future. 5:30–6:30pm. Camp Fire USA, 305 W. Hardin St., Findlay.

419-422-5415. www.campfireusa-nwohio.com

19 MONDAY Wee Ones: Stars - Program includes a story, activities and a craft and a look inside the new portable planetarium.

Recommended for children three years old and under with an adult companion.

Other age siblings welcome. 10am & 1pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com

20 TUESDAY Holiday Skate - During Thanksgiving break take the family to the Cube to burn off all the turkey and stuffing! November 20-25. Tuesday & Wednesday, 2-4pm; Friday, 12-1:50pm, 2-4pm, 8-11pm; Saturday, 1-2:50pm, 8-11pm; Sunday, 12-1:50pm. The CUBE, 3430 North Main St. 419-424-7176. www.findlayohio.com

23 FRIDAY Tree Lighting Ceremony & Winterfest Kick Off - Bring your family to Dorney Plaza and officially kickoff the Christmas season with the lighting of the City Christmas Tree. Visit with Santa, shop, eat and enjoy the lights in Downtown Findlay. 6-8pm. Downtown Findlay.

North Pole Express - Bring everyone out to take a magical little train ride around the track decorated with sparkling lights and holiday decorations. Warm up inside with a cup of hot chocolate, fresh-popped popcorn, and other treats.

Take a stroll to see 40+ beautifully decorated Christmas trees, each unique.

And do some shopping in the railroad gift shop stocked with items for big and little train enthusiasts. Through December 30. Fridays, 6-9pm; Saturdays, 5-9pm; Sundays 5-8pm. $2 adults / $1 children 12 and younger. Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation, 11600 CR 99.

419-423-2995. www.nworrp.org

26 MONDAY Winterfest - Enjoy the beauty and excitement of the holiday season with your family, friends and neighbors. The Downtown Winterfest has become an annual Findlay tradition. This year, bring the family to St. Andrews Church to visit with Santa and then take the short walk to downtown to shop, eat and enjoy the lights in Downtown Findlay. 6-8pm. St. Andrews Church, 120 W. Sandusky St. www.saumcfindlay.org

27 TUESDAY Giant 3-D Snowflake - Teens can create a giant 3-D snowflake. 6-7:30pm.

Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org Sugar Plum Fairy’s Guide to the Land of Sweets - Learn about the “Nut cracker” from some of the performers.

Presented in cooperation with the Arts Partnership and Neos Dance Theatre.

4:30-5:30pm. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org

28 WEDNESDAY

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• November 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Make a Holiday Wreath - Make a holiday wreath using fresh greens with the Master Gardeners. Registration required.

5:30-7pm. $15 material fee. FindlayHancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org

29 THURSDAY Nuncrackers - The Christmas musical Nuncrackers stars the nuns you love from Nunsense plus Father Virgil and four of Mount Saint Helen’s most talented students. Presented as the first TV special taped in the convent basement, it features all new songs including “Twelve Days Prior to Christmas”, “Santa Ain’t Coming to Our House” and “We Three Kings of Orient Are Us”. Filled with typical Nunsense humor, your favorite carols, and “Secret Santa” audience participation, this performance by the Fort Findlay Playhouse Players is sure to delight. Friday & Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. $15.

Fort Findlay Playhouse, 300 W. Sandusky St. 419-422-4624. www.artspartnership.com

30 FRIDAY The Nutcracker - The Arts Partnership welcomes the Neos Dance Theatre to Findlay once again for an all new breathtaking original version of a holiday classic. In collaboration with Judith Shoaff Reading and the Findlay Academy of Ballet, as well as members of the local community, Neos’ Artistic Director Bobby Wesner has transported this classic story to the American Midwest of the 1940s.

Beautiful new costumes and amazing sets guarantee a spectacular evening of music and dance. Begin a holiday tradition for the whole family! 7:30-11pm. $25 adults / $23 seniors / $15 students. Central Auditorium, 200 W. Main Cross St. 419-422-4624. www.artspartnership.com

Visit www.findlayfamily.com for more events and to add your own!

marketplace ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE Free Classifieds:

Individuals may receive one free 20-word ad per month (products offered in ads must sell for under $100). Each additional word 40 cents, payment must accompany ad. Free ads run 1 month and are reserved for private-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.

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.

Qualified home health aides needed! Family Service of NW Ohio,

701 Jefferson, Suite 301, Toledo, OH 43604. Inquiries call 419-720-0014 Teachers Aide Year round school for students with Autism.

Monday through Friday, 7:45 am – 3:30 pm. $8 per hour. 35 hours per week.

Benefits available. Must have high school diploma and able to pass a background.

Send resume to the Autism Model School.

3020 Tremainsville Rd. Toledo, Oh 43613 Attn: Matt. Please no phone calls or walk-ins. EOE.

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.

LESSONS Dance class for hearing impaired school age

Earn $28,000

children. Sundays 4 p.m. 419-309-1610

Music Lessons. Piano, Voice, Guitar. BGSU Grad. 419-422-7804

HELP WANTED Freelance writers needed. Send resume to:

editor@findlayfamily.com

Drivers needed to deliver Findlay Area

Birthdays • Banquets Schools • Scouts • More!

419-472-4333

www.AndrewMartinMagic.com

See ! rew And

Shorties Tuesdays 6-8 PM Pizza Papalis Wednesdays 6-8 PM

419.

ABC’s Wife Swap Magicians

244.9859

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

to place your ad

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• November 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com