Findlay Family Oct 12

FREE October 2012

Spooks, Thrills,

Chills!

Fit for children

Findlay instructor Barb Matheny introduces p6 yoga for little ones

The talk

The secret to a succesful parent teacher conference

p14

My only cannoli

and

p8

p15

New La Scola Tuscan Grill impresses

Now enrolling for summer!

Infants, toddlers and preschoolers.

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

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

www.mackliniginstitute.org

2

• October 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

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

Adams Street Publishing Co.

Volume 2 • Issue 10

October 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

Graphic Design

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

departments 4 5 6 7 17

19

community snapshots

commentary

14 family planet

Meet the teacher

what’s briefly happening

new kids on the block

exceptional families calendar marketplace

Remembering fond favorites and current inspirations

— by Rose

Roccisano Barto

Italian intentions

Experiencing the new La Scola Tuscan Grill — by Rose Roccisano Barto

14 parent profile

— compiled by Julian Garcia

15 food fight

Horsing around

Stella Prescott’s passion for all things equestrian — by David Coehrs

features

Sales Coordinator

p8

Shannon Reiter: sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Classified Sales

Emily Gibb: classifieds@findlayfamily.com

Administration Accounting

Robin Armstrong: rarmstrong@findlayfamily.com

Interns

Marisa Rubin: mrubin@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Advertising/General Info: For advertising

Oliver Enright, 2, of Findlay

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

Letters to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are subject to editing and should include the writer’s full name and phone number.

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

Audited by

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 want to hear from you!

Findlay Area Family

editor@findlayfamily.com 419-244-9859

www.findlayfamily.com • October 2012 •

3

sponsored by

Best friends, Ava, and Jaela, both 9, of Findlay

Savanna Eakin, age 6 Findlay, at Riverside park

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

Risa Lindamood, age 10 Findlay, Ohio Alex Houck, age 5 Findlay, Ohio Oliver Enright (our cover kid!), age 2 and at right, Skyler Enright, age 3, of Findlay, Ohio

4

• October 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Run in the sun

Active folks of all ages, students or not, can be a part of the University of Findlay’s Homecoming celebration this fall with the seventh annual Homecoming 5K Run/Walk and Little Oiler Fun Run on Saturday, October 13. It’s a chance to get out in the sun on an autumn morning and have a little heart rate-raising fun on the University’s beautiful campus.

There are plenty of prizes available — the top-three finishers in each age division win awards, as well the top UF students and alumni. Door prizes include restaurant gift certificates and a Findlay Weekend Getaway with hotel accommodations and dinner for two. Registration starts at 6:45am in Croy Gymnasium, and the Fun Run begins at 7:45. The race begins and ends at Old Main, and it’s sure to be a great celebration of fitness and the University community. $15 with registration before September 21, $20 after. (Early registration guarantees you a T-shirt!) 1000 N. Main St. 419-434-4589. www.findlay.edu. —MD

Kids will get a peek at the crafts of the olden days during Harvest The Past; above, Robin Longworth teaches 3-year-old Casen Stateler how apples are pressed to make cider

What’s past is prologue

Take some time to do it the old-fashioned way, as the Hancock County Parks presents Harvest the Past, a charmingly backward-looking celebration of autumn. Come out to Litzenberg Memorial Woods to hear old-school backcountry music from Dulcimer Gatherin’ and see demonstrations of old-time crafts done the way our ancestors did them, from blacksmithing to broom-making. Watch real apple butter made over an open fire, and feel free to take some home (for a donation!). You can visit with “living history” characters in old-time dress at the 1840s McKinnis House, and maybe get their take on our modern world. There are plenty of hayrides, children’s activities and other wholesome fall fun, so make a day of it. Your kids might be thrilled to learn of a world before iPads! Sunday, October 7, 1-5pm. 6100 US 224. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com. —MD

Early holiday start

A cavalcade of arts and crafts, musical entertainment, food, kids’ fun and more will fill the Hancock County fairgrounds, with a touch of Yuletide to whet your whistle for the coming holiday. It’s the 25th Annual Christmas in October Craft Show, and promoter Judy Cloud guarantees there will be something for everyone. What evolved from similar but smaller events Cloud held while a resident of California and New York has grown with her show in Findlay.

More than 300 craft vendors will offer everything from woodwork to jewelry to quilts, and, of course, holiday decor, in a fun, relaxed atmosphere spanning 11 buildings, two large tents and outdoor exhibits. Upwards of 8,000 people are expected to join the festivities that include two dozen food vendors, a barbershop quartet, pony rides, a clown, face painting and live demonstrations. Oh, and a visit from ol’ Santa too! It’s great way to shop and get in the holiday spirit. $5/adults, Children under 12 free. Saturday, October 6, 10am-5pm; Sunday, October 7, 11am-4pm. Hancock County Fairgrounds, 1017 E. Sandusky St. 419-429-7344. www.cloudshows.biz. Free parking. —DC

www.findlayfamily.com • October 2012 •

5

Youth yogis

Kids and yoga? Barb Matheny’s Harmony Yoga will show you the combination is a perfect fit, and great way to bond with your little ones. The retired Findlay teacher is presenting "Big and Little" yoga classes for children ages six months to two years, and preschool yoga classes for those age 3 to 5. These simple lessons, offered in this area exclusively through Matheny, use basic poses, stories, games, books, music and breathing and relaxation techniques in a playful setting. The younger children experience special bonding time with their guardian, and the preschool kids get exercise but also lessons in focus, stress and anger reduction, relaxation, cooperation, social skills and creativity. “Kids are always so busy, and this is a way to introduce some calm into their lives,” Matheny says. “Yoga also helps them become learningready.” Certified in YogaEd through the international business’s Miami, Florida, branch, Matheny introduced her children’s classes in January at Whittier Elementary School.

Harmony Yoga shares space with Deviate Recording Studio in Findlay, although Barb says expansion is in the works, including the possibility of yoga-themed birthday parties. Six classes over six weeks cost $50, and sessions start Monday, Oct. 22. 106 Southwest St. Free parking. For information, or to sign up, call 419-306-6136 or email barbmatheny@gmail.com. —DC

6

• October 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

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

Art meets athletics

Sarah Crisp and her crew are now awakening minds not only with art, but athletics as well.

Awakening Minds Art, an organization that has provided therapeutic art for more than three years in the Findlay area, added athletics to the mix over the summer. Now known as Awakening Minds Art and Athletics, it offers dance, martial arts, baseball and golf as additional ways to help reach individuals with special needs or those who benefit from one-on-one instruction.

“All of our programs here are whatever families need and request,” says Crisp, the organization’s director. “A lot of families started talking about getting their children more involved in extra-curricular activities.” Dance and martial arts instruction takes place at the group’s temporary facility on Crawford Street, with baseball and golf taught at Emory Adams Park, weather permitting. Once the group moves Harrison Holly, 18, has great dedication and passion towards his AMA baseball lessons. into a permanent building next year, all sports and art will be housed under one roof. More than 40 students currently come to AMA for instruction, with instructors also traveling to nursing homes and other group settings.

It’s all meant to support and encourage the therapy a client is already receiving.

For example, if a client has trouble crossing the midline of the body, Crisp and her instructors can work on that while having fun. A baseball player can work on his or her swing, and an artist can paint from one side of a canvas to another. Most sessions are one-on-one.

The group’s second annual fundraiser will be held from 7-10pm on December 1 at Waldo Pepper’s, 411 S. Main St., and will include an art auction and sale. Admission is $10. For more information on the fundraiser or AMA, contact Crisp at 419-302-3892 or by email at awakeningmindsart@yahoo.com. www.awakeningmindsart.org —RB Advertorial

How's your hearing?

School signifies the importance of sound ears

By Dr. Larry Schmidbauer Hearing is one of two jobs that the ears and the brain do together. Hearing is what you do twenty four hours a day seven days a week. It is surveillance of the world around you.

Most of what you hear you process subconsciously in short term memory. This is natural and is made possible because you are familiar with the sound you are hearing. Unfamiliar sounds or alert sounds (i.e. alarms, timers etc.) are not processed subconsciously but at a conscious level where your ears and your brain are doing the second job they perform called listening.

Listening is the pairing of the brain and the ears intentionally on a specific task. You turn it on and turn it off. Listening is always at a conscious level. You don't want a lot of interference from background noise here because it makes it harder to listen ... it's distracting.

October is Senior Living Month and it is important that seniors hear well in order to live well and be productive. Hearing sensitivity is one of those things that decline as we get older. Having your hearing evaluated by an audiologist is a great way to find out where you stand compared to normal hearers. Audiologists are the professional to choose because they are diagnosticians and also trained in treatments for hearing loss. They are appropriate "gate keepers" for hearing and balance disorders. They are trained not only to sell you a product but to accurately diagnose the nature and extent of your condition.

Hearing loss is good to get a handle on early. You do not want to wait until it is severe. Untreated hearing loss leads to problems with attention span, memory, anxiety, depression and general health issues. Once we have an accurate hearing evaluation we can talk about your current hearing condition and whether treatment for any hearing loss or tinnitus — ringing in the ears — is necessary. Having a baseline test to compare future tests to is helpful to see what changes occur, which frequencies are involved and how quickly changes are occurring.

Your quality of life is directly related to how well you hear and listen! Be attentive to your ears. Schedule a time to have a discussion with your audiologist today!

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

877-664-7758. professionalhearingtiffin.com

www.findlayfamily.com • October 2012 •

7

Trick or treat times Findlay: Thursday, October 25, 6:30-8pm North Baltimore: Thursday, October 25, 6-7:30pm Arcadia: Saturday, October 27, 6-7:30pm Fostoria: Wednesday, October 31, 6-7:30pm McComb: Wednesday, October 31, 6-7pm, downtown parade at 7:30pm

Learning

Monday, October 15

Wee Ones: Bats Discovery Center Oakwoods Nature Preserve 1400 Oakwoods Ln. (off CR 144) 419-425-7275 www.hancockparks.com Bats are a little spooky for some folks, but they are also beneficial. Learn about the bat’s place in nature, and maybe bust some bat myths as well. The program includes a story, activities and a craft. It’s recommended for children under three with an adult companion. 10am-1pm.

Sunday, October 28

Hands-On Nature: Fairy Fun Discovery Center Oakwoods Nature Preserve 1400 Oakwoods Ln. (off CR 144) 419-425-7275 www.hancockparks.com Bring your family out to frolic with the fairies! Enjoy children’s activities centering around these little nature lovers and listen to some fairy tales, too. Search for fairy houses on a short hike, then come back to build your own fairy house.

Feel free to come dressed as your favorite story book character or pixie. 1-4pm. open house, hike leaves at 2pm.

8

Spooky, scary, sweet or silly — there is something for everyone during the Halloween season. Hayrides, pumpkins, trains, crafts and tours are plentiful in October as we celebrate the harvest. So grab a cup of cider, a light jacket and your camera and sample the many fall festivities in the Findlay area.

By Rose Roccisano Barto

Walks, Hikes & Tours

Tuesday, October 2

Pioneer Tyke Hikes McKinnis Homestead Litzenberg Memorial Woods 6100 U.S. 224 West 419-425-PARK www.hancockparks.com Here’s a great way to wear your little ones out — an adventure at the McKinnis Homestead. Children under three, with an adult, can help grind corn, make cider and meet a pioneer. 10am-2pm. 50 cents.

Saturday, October 20

14th Annual Enchanted Forest Walk Discovery Center Oakwoods Nature Preserve 1400 Oakwoods Ln. (off CR 144) 419-425-PARK www.hancockparks.com Take a walk through the woods without the spooky stuff! Tour a

• October 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

character-filled trail with a guide, who will point out the park’s after-dark inhabitants. Designed for ages 5 and up. 7-8:30pm, with tours leaving every 15 minutes. $2 per person, registration due October 18.

Saturday, October 20

horseback trick or treat Project H.O.P.E. 6645 T.R. 215 419-469-0415 www.projecthope-equinetherapy.com Raise funds for Project H.O.P.E. Equine Therapies, a private, non-profit organization that offers therapeutic horseback riding activities to area children, at this trick-or-treating on horseback event. Children of all ages are welcome to join, and costumes are not required. $5 donation. 1-5pm.

Ava Cole, 9, Findlay

d n a s t Craf s-on

s d e n i t a i h activ

s e z a M Corn ayrides and H

Saturdays and Sundays in October 2012 Corn Maze Suter’s Produce 12200 Pandora Rd., Pandora 419-384-3331 www.suterproduce.com The theme for Suter’s annual corn maze is Fun on the Farm, and is a non-scary way to add a little adventure to your life — no GPS allowed! Other fall fun includes hayrides and pumpkin picking, corn cannons, mini-mazes and the biggest ear of corn ever. 1-8pm, with the last admission at 7pm. $6, students kindergarten through college $4.50.

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in October Barnyard Fun and Corn Maze Riehm Farms 7244 Ohio 53 North, Tiffin 419-992-4392 www.funacres.net Cheer three little pigs to the finish line, launch veggies at targets, milk cows and burrow through a hay tunnel — there are a lot of ways to have fun at Riehms Farms.

A corn maze and hayride round out the day. 4-7pm Fridays, noon-7pm Saturdays, and 2-6pm Sundays. $7 with free admission for those under two years old.

They are Aidyn, 3, and Cohen, 2, Levenhagen of Findlay Through early November Hay Rides at Riverbend Recreation Area 16618 Township Rd. 208 419-425-7275 www.hancockparks.com Get a group of 25 or less together and bring them to Riverbend for a fall color adventure on the back of an old-fashioned tractor-drawn hayride. Be sure to bring a blanket and bundle up for a trip through the park, where you might just spy wildlife enjoying the last bit of fall. Hayrides are available through early November, weather permitting, and can be reserved for $60 per load through the park district.

Rides can be finished off by using the campground for a campfire or a shelter can be reserved for $40.

Cont. on pg 10

www.findlayfamily.com • October 2012 •

9

Saturday, October 20 Cont. from pg 9

Friday, Saturdays and Sundays through October 28

Friday, October 5 and Saturday, October 6

HalloWeekends Cedar Point One Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky 419-627-2350 www.cedarpoint.com Your favorite amusement park gets transformed into 10 haunted houses and nighttime attractions to add an extra scare to your weekend. During the daytime there is a parade and other fun for kids. Some rides and attractions will be closed Fridays. 6pmmidnight Fridays, 11am-midnight Saturdays and noon-9pm Sundays. HalloWeekends admission is free with regular park admission.

Cora Bowman, 2, of Findlay.

10

Nightfall Festival Toledo Botanical Garden 5403 Elmer Dr., Toledo www.toledogarden.org A garden can be a thing of beauty, or a place filled with the strange and unusual. The Toledo Botanical Garden gets transformed for its annual festival, with trick-or-treating, art activities and a new fairy garden. Experience a spooky pumpkin patch, eerie lantern walking tour and The Creature of Crosby Lake. Horse-drawn wagon rides will also be available. 4-10pm. $8 for adults, $7 for students and seniors 60 and over, and $6 for garden members.

Those under 12 are admitted free.

Thursday, October 18 and Friday, October 19

Little Boo at the Zoo Toledo Zoo 2700 Broadway St., Toledo 419-385-5721 www.toledozoo.org The Toledo Zoo becomes a Halloween haven for tiny trick-or-treaters. Costumes are encouraged at this event, which is smaller in scope so little legs won’t tire as easily as children visit trick or treat stations around the amphitheater. Please bring a bag or bucket for all

• October 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

those treats! 10am-3pm. Admission is the same as regular zoo admission: $14 for adults, $11 for seniors, $11 for children under 12; children under 2 admitted free.

Friday, October 19 and Saturday, October 20

All Hallows Eve Celebration Seven Eagles Historical Education Center 16486 Wapakoneta Rd., Grand Rapids 419-509-0095 www.seven-eagles.com Costumed storytellers, bonfires, hayrides and lantern tours fill the center’s historical sites. All Hallows activities include hay rides, handson activities, food and entertainment.

Come early on Saturday and make it a family event by picnicking, canoeing, cane-pole fishing or throwing tomahawks. 6-10 p.m. $2.50 for children and seniors, $5 for adults for $10 per family. Children under four are admitted free.

Non-Scary Halloween Hancock County Fairgrounds 1017 East Sandusky St. 419-422-5415 www.campfireusa-nwohio. com Halloween doesn’t have to b e all ghosts and ghouls. The tenderest among us appreciate a non-scary event, too! You’ll find that at the annual Camp Fire USA event, which is geared to kids in preschool through fourth grade.

Children get to play games, earn prizes, do a craft and go through a maze.

Noon-4pm. $3 for children, who get 10 game tickets. Additional game tickets can be purchased for $1. Adults are admitted free with a child.

Saturday, October 20

Halloween Skate Rolling Thunder Skating and Family Fun Center 2225 Keith Parkway 419-422-7227 www.rollingthunderskatefindlay.com Rolling Thunder hosts its second Halloween skate, with themed music, a Jello eating contest and other familyfriendly activities. Awards will be given for the best youth and adult costumes, judged by event sponsor Chase Bank.

7pm-midnight. $8.50 plus skate rental if applicable.

Friday, October 19 & Saturday, October 20

Boocentennial spooktacular!

618 S. Main St. 419-422-4624 www.artspartnership.com Celebrate the spooky side of Findlay’s history at this weekend-long event.

Friday, 5pm to Saturday, 11:30pm.

Saturday, October 20

Camp Fire’s 21st annual non-scary halloween 1017 E. Sandusky St. 419-422-5415 jtreece@campfirenwohio.com Explore the Hancock County Fairgrounds Merchant’s Building for treats (no tricks here!). Halloweenthemed games, face painting and pumpkins will be on hand, and there will even be a maze. 12-4pm. $3 for 10 tickets/adults free. Additional tickets are 10 for $1.

Cont. on pg 12

www.findlayfamily.com • October 2012 •

11

Cont. from pg 11 ued

Friday, October 19 & Saturday, October 20

Boocentennial spooktacular!

618 S. Main St. 419-422-4624 www.artspartnership.com Celebrate the spooky side of Findlay’s history at this weekend-long event.

Friday, 5pm to Saturday, 11:30pm.

Saturday, October 20

Camp Fire’s 21st annual non-scary halloween 1017 E. Sandusky St. 419-422-5415 jtreece@campfirenwohio.com Explore the Hancock County Fairgrounds Merchant’s Building for treats (no tricks here!).

Halloween-themed games, face painting and pumpkins will be on hand, and there will even be a maze. 12-4pm. $3 for 10 tickets/ adults free. Additional tickets are 10 for $1.

Dayton Young, 6, of Arlington

12

contin

Sunday, October 21

Findlay YMCA Fall Fest Downtown Branch 300 East Lincoln St. 419-422-4424 www.findlayymca.org Games, snacks and a costume contest are included in the non-scary event.

Free and open to the public.

Tuesday, October 23

Halloween parade Downtown Findlay 419-422-3313 www.hancockleadershipalumni.com This year’s parade will also feature a costume contest. The route starts on East Lincoln Street, runs along North Main and turns on West Main Cross, and ends on West Street, rain or shine.

7pm. Free.

Thursday, October 25

Trick or Treat at the Mall Findlay Village Mall 1800 Tiffin Ave. 419-423-8732 www.shopfindlayvillagemall.com Trick or treaters are welcome at the Findlay Village Mall. Come in through any mall entrance and move along the outer loop of the mall, where merchants will be standing outside their stores with treats. 6-8pm. Free.

• October 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Saturdays and Sundays through October 21

Pumpkin Train rides Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation 11600 County Rd. 99 419-423-2955 www.nworrp.org Children of all ages are welcome on the Pumpkin Train, with departures every 15 minutes to the pumpkin patch, where little ones can choose a special pumpkin and have it shipped by rail back to the station.

1-4 p.m. $2/adults, $1/children 12 and under.

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays

Haunted Engine House Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation 11600 County Rd. 99 419-423-2955 www.nworrp.org Enjoy — or endure — a walk through the creepy dark building full of spooky surprises. Organizers emphasize the event is unsuitable for those under age 13. 7pmmidnight Fridays and Saturdays, and 7-10pm Sundays. $7.

Miley Eakin, 3, Findlay

www.findlayfamily.com • October 2012 •

13

Meet the teacher

Remembering fond favorites and current inspirations

By Rose Roccisano Barto My favorite teacher of all time was my second grade teacher, Mrs. Carpenter.

I think almost every one of my classmates would disagree. She was a few years away from retirement, didn’t put up with any nonsense and was known as the strictest teacher in our elementary school – maybe even the world. Still, many years after second grade, I still remember her fondly as the teacher who let me imagine.

If we were well-behaved, she took a few minutes at the end of the day and had us put our heads down on our desks. She would then tell us of her travels to places we kids literally only dreamed of. It wasn’t so much the math and English and spelling she taught. She gave us a window to the world, and, using our imaginations, we could see ourselves walking a dusty path in Egypt or sampling cheese in France.

As the school year begins, parents can only hope our children experience at least one Mrs. Carpenter during their school years. We hope for teachers who can communicate not only with our children but with us. In the next few months we will all be signing up for parent teacher conferences. It’s a chance to set the right tone with our children’s teachers.

Prepared parents

The National PTA suggests doing some homework before those conferences. Talk to your children about what subjects they like best and least, and why. Are there any concepts they just don’t understand? Any concerns they have that might go beyond learning, such as distractions in the classroom? Make a list of things you’d like to discuss with the teacher.

14

Above all, keep in mind that the teacher is a partner with you in your children’s education, not the sole source of it. I like to use conferences as a way to confirm that all is well.

For example, if the teacher describes a child who is completely opposite from the one I know at home, there is an issue. I also have the opportunity to explain some of the nuances of my children, such as who works best on her own and who needs a little nudge sometimes.

After one particularly challenging year, I came up with my own personal checklist. I want to know how accessible the teacher is via email or a phone call. I want to know if my child is tanking a subject right away, not when report cards come home. I also want to know if the teacher is willing to give my child extra help – you’d be surprised how difficult that can be to schedule. In particular, I want a teacher who truly values the parentteacher partnership.

Last year my oldest daughter had one of those teachers, and she made all the difference. She took a girl who only tolerated math and turned her into someone who is considering it as a career. She always answered my emails promptly, and never made me feel I was bothering her. Maybe I was, but I appreciated her patience and enthusiasm.

Like Mrs. Carpenter, she expanded my daughter’s world to include more possibilities, including math as a girl’s game. And that’s what we want for our children – the chance to grow as a person and see the world as an exciting, hopeful place. The right teachers, together with parents, can make all the difference.

Stella Prescott’s passion for horses led to a lifelong equestrian career

Horsing around

Stella Prescott brings passion to the equestrian field

By David J. Coehrs For Stella Prescott, it’s a simple matter of loving what you do. The lifelong horse enthusiast said her job as director of the Hunter-Jumper program at the Child Equestrian Complex of the University of Findlay couldn’t be more perfect if she had designed it herself. “For success, it starts with really loving what you do. I feel very fortunate that the job I have with the university is the perfect match for me,” she said.

The former owner of Star Ridge Stables in Hardeeville, S.C., 41-year-old Prescott can no longer ride due to health issues, but that hasn’t stopped her from pursuing a career helping students fulfill their equestrian dreams.

Since August of 2011, she has led three-hour-plus UF classes in horse training, equitation (how a rider’s position affects a horse’s travel), and how to become an instructor. Her days begin at 5 a.m. and her work can last until 8 p.m.

Her classroom is the university’s 30-acre equestrian complex, located about 10 miles from the main campus.

In the process of pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in animal sciences, her students also learn such life skills as communication, time management, empathy for living things and dealing with other people. Prescott said because it’s wellknown the horse industry requires long hours and does not pay well, she knows the students involved genuinely love and are committed to the work.

“People, in my experience, get involved in the horse industry because they are passionate about it,” Prescott said. “This world gives you an immediate connection to family. Within the students themselves, they are really supportive of each other. And as trainers, you get to know them on a really personal level.”

• October 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

The Georgia native started riding at six years old at a horse camp near her home. She never owned her own horse, but a trainer she rode with through high school kept a mount for her. At 15, Prescott switched trainers and got involved in competitions and showings.

She attended the University of Georgia, where she worked breaking horses.

But her final year of college was spent studying horse breeding during an internship at Queensland University in Australia.

After earning a Bachelor of Science in Equine Science, Prescott did some runway modeling and got part-time work grooming horses and cleaning stalls in Georgia. In 1996, she was hired as a stable manager at the Olympic games held in Atlanta.

Following 10 years of owning and operating her stable business, she decided to accept the university’s offer to direct their equestrian complex, which includes one outdoor and three indoor riding arenas.

Perhaps the greatest life lesson her students learn from horses, Prescott said, is patience.

“They are not machines. It has to be a team effort,” she said. “They’re like a dance partner or a teammate. You can’t lose your temper.”

She misses riding, but feels being on the sidelines, nurturing her students, is more exciting than being in the saddle.

“Their success is due to what they learn from me, and that’s always been a really good feeling. I still get to see that ‘lightbulb’ moment with students. It’s a great thing to be able to have that positive influence on so many people,” she said.

The bottom line, Prescott said, is “you have to love what you do. I love what I’m doing.”

Italian intentions A family pasta party at the new La Scola

La Scola Tuscan Grill

By Rose Roccisano Barto

2215 Tiffin Ave. 567-301-2023 lascolaitaliangrill.com Open: Sundays 11am-9pm Monday thru Thursday 11am-10pm Friday Saturday 11am-11pm

Most Italian families have a secret recipe or two — something only they can make. The ingredients of their prized dishes are so under wraps that even if they give the recipe away, they leave out a key ingredient so no one can recreate the deliciousness. This is how my family’s cannoli recipe is — often imitated, never duplicated.

For those unfamiliar with cannoli, it is a tube-shaped shell of fried pastry dough, filled with a sweet, creamy filling that usually has a mixture of ricotta, sugar and a few other ingredients done in a certain way. In my hometown one branch of the family makes a living creating cannoli and other Italian desserts. Every family has a cannoli recipe, and ours is distinctly rich and decadent — something I’ve never experienced outside of the family. Until now.

Italiano with a twist

When we went to the recently-opened La Scola Tuscan Grill we were impressed with the décor, which featured a massive stone fireplace separating the dining and bar areas. The colors were warm and rich, from the red and black leather seats to the exposed beams and wine bottle light fixtures. We sat down and perused the menu., a list of Italian favorites with a twist.

For starters we ordered bruschetta, a toasted Italian bread traditionally served with olive oil and chopped garlic and tomatoes. This version was topped with cherry tomatoes, pesto and cheese — a different but tasty combo! Also at our table was warm bread for dipping into a saucer filled with olive oil.

Although a kids’ menu is available, my preteen daughters chose to order off the main menu. They got half orders of their favorites — for $7.99 each, they got half orders of the spaghetti marinara, and also two side salads for $2.75 each. My husband got the trio ($16.95) with lasagna, chicken parmigiana and fettuccine, along with a side salad. I ordered the butternut squash ravioli ($15.99) that contained squash, roasted peppers and goat cheese in a sherry butter sauce.

That’s amore!

Everyone loved their meals! As is our usual modus operandi, we all tasted a little bit of everything. My husband was pleasantly surprised at the richness of the ravioli, which I was impressed with the bite of lasagna I pilfered from his plate. My daughters enjoyed bites from both plates, but were fo-

cused on their spaghetti. We knew going in, based on the size of the plates, we’d be taking home leftovers. We used to tease my mother that if there were no leftovers she obviously didn’t cook enough, and that’s the case at La Scola. Be prepared to bring a round of goodies home.

Speaking of goodies, we were not too full to peruse the dessert menu. And there it was — cannoli. We tend to order one or two desserts and share, so my oldest daughter ordered her favorite, crème brulee at $5.99, while I ordered mini-cannoli at $4.50. The crème brulee didn’t last long, and we were lucky to get a bite before it went bye-bye.

That’s okay, though, because the cannoli more than made up for that.

It’s hard to describe my family’s cannoli, except to say La Scola has come the closest ever. Just the right texture and sweetness, sprinkled with chocolate chips and drizzled with sweet sauce. We each had a bite or two, and as one proclaimed they just might save us a trip to New York when we are in a cannoli state of mind.

THE SHORT COURSE Kid-friendly? Yes To avoid wait: Consider off-peak hours, but reservations are accepted Noise level: Just right Bathroom amenities: Changing tables and hand lotion available High chairs? Yes Got milk? Yes (plain and chocolate too!) as well as pink lemonade, apple, cranberry, and orange juices Kids’ menu? Yes Anything healthy for the kids?

Side salads and seasonal vegetables Food allergy concerns? Some gluten-free options available

www.findlayfamily.com • October 2012 •

15

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

Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

Friday, October 12 Sunday, October 14

University of Findlay Homecoming & Family Weekend

This three day series of events has something fun for the entire family and is the official kickoff to the University of Findlay OIlers’ home football season. On Friday, catch the Homecoming Parade at 7pm followed by the Coronation of King & Queen ceremony and pep rally. There’s also a carnival with mechanical bull riding, laser tag, delicious carnival foods and fireworks at 9pm to top the night off. On Saturday, after the Oilers vs. Ohio Dominican football game at 3pm, enjoy music, libations and great food during the after-party from 8pm-12am for $10.

And on Sunday, families are invited to a special afternoon of storytelling, art projects, face painting and more to help celebrate the Mazza Museum’s 30th birthday from 1:30-3:30pm. Mayor of Findlay, Lydia Mihalik, will be on hand to declare the official Mazza Museum Day in Findlay. Go online for full list of events and times.

University of Findlay, 1000 N. Main St. www.findlay.edu—JG

16

• October 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

1 MONDAY Home of the Maize - Leaders Farms is the place to be in the Fall. Keep busy all day long with the corn maze, Gem Mining, play areas for the children, the Coop Shoot, scenic hayrides, cow train rides, face painting, live entertainment, costume characters, pumpkins, exotic petting zoo, Barnyard Bouncer and so much more. After dark, there are screams of terror and delight at Scream Acres Haunted Attractions. Get spooked in the Haunted Cornfield or brave your way through the halls of the PanDEMONium Project.

Daily through November 4. Leaders Farms, Corner of St Rt 24 and Co Rd 16, Napoleon. 419-599-1570. www.leadersfarms.com

4 THURSDAY Corn Maze - You don’t have to be a football fan to love the corn maze, designed in honor of the UT Rockets and BGSU Falcons. 16.2 miles of maze cover 16 acres, more than enough territory to work up an appetite for cider and donuts. Maze is open through month of October. Thursdays, 5-10pm; Fridays, 5pm-midnight; Saturdays, noon-midnight and Sundays, noon-8pm. $8 kids ages 10+ / $7 kids 6-9 (accompanied by an adult) and seniors. Butterfly House, 11455 Obee Rd., Whitehouse. 419-877-2733. www.wheelerfarms.com

5 FRIDAY Public Genealogy Lock In - The Findlay-Hancock County Public Library and the Hancock County Genealogical Society will co-host a genealogy lock-in for the public. Registration is required. Staff and volunteers will be available to assist attendees with their genealogy research.

Participants may also bring a brown bag lunch/supper with them. Registration required. 5-10pm. Findlay - Hancock Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org

6 SATURDAY 25th Annual Christmas in October Craft Show - Come to northwest Ohio’s largest and most distinctive craft show.

This exciting 2 day event will showcase a vast array of Arts & Crafts featuring Americana, Folk Art, Primitive, Country, Contemporary and many other handcrafted and designed items. The event includes 11 buildings, 2 big top tents and dozens of outdoor exhibits, demonstrations, pony rides, and entertainment as well as dozens of delicious food vendors. There’s also a children’s area! Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 11am-4pm. $5. Hancock County Fairgrounds, 1017 Sandusky St. www.cloudshows.biz

Apple Stir & Crafts Festival - The first weekend in October, families from throughout Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana flock to Holland for a full weekend of fun.

Pick your own apples, browse the arts & crafts show, take horse drawn wagon rides, camel rides, and enjoy live entertainment and music! There will be plenty of great food and of course the annual apple pie contest. 10am-6pm. MacQueen Orchards, 7605 Garden Rd., Holland.

419-865-2916. www.macqueenorchards.com

7 SUNDAY Teddy’s Rescue Fundraiser - Teddy’s Rescue will be hosting a Fundraiser with Origami Owl Custom Jewelry. Come and design your very own living locket that tells your story and support Teddy’s Rescue. 2:30-4:30pm. Teddy’s Rescue, Inc., 12409 County Road 99.

567-429-1695. www.origamiowl.com Cont. on pg 18

www.findlayfamily.com • October 2012 •

17

Cont. from pg 17

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

MONDAYS

Story Time, Hear stories with songs. For all ages. 11:15-11:45am. Free. FindlayHancock 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. 419422-5415. www.campfireusa-nwohio. com

12 FRIDAY The Diary of Anne Frank - Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl is one of the most widely read books documenting the Holocaust. It is the still, small voice of an adolescent girl living under extraordinary conditions that speaks above the clamorous cruelty of war. With an endearing style and a remarkably strong spirit, Anne records in her diary the events and personalities within her secret hiding place for nearly two years. With vivid clarity, playwrights Goodrich and Hackett bring to life the horrors of the war and the optimism and faith of one young girl who continues to believe that “people are really good at heart.” October, 12, 13 & 20 7:30pm; October 21, 2pm. $7 student / $11 adult. The Ritz Theatre, 30 South Washington St., Tiffin. 419-448-8544. www.ritztheatre.org

13 SATURDAY Drawing Leaves in Autumn - This workshop is a part of the Adult Education Program and uses pen and watercolor or colored pencil to emphasize color. All supplies provided. Register by Friday, October 12. 10am. $5. Riverbend Recreation Area, 16618 Township Road 208. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com 7th Annual Family 5K Run/Walk It’s Homecoming/Family Weekend at the University of Findlay and you can be part of the Oiler fun by participating in the 7th Annual Fun Run/Walk and Little Oiler Fun Run. All are welcome to participate, so come out and bring the whole family!

Registration 6:45am. University of Findlay, 1000 N. Main St. www.findlay.edu 22nd Annual Van Buren Lions Club Apple Butter Fest & Craft Show - Enjoy excellent crafters, a quilt show, wood carving demonstrations, birds of prey, food vendors, kids’ activities and more. 9am-3pm. Van Buren High School, 217 S. Main St., Van Buren. 419-2993628. www.vanburenlions.org

14 SUNDAY Applebutter Fest - Always held the second Sunday of October, this festival features Heritage Craftsmen, juried crafts, entertainment, great food, vintage farm equipment, re-enactment groups and pioneer demonstrations, the traditional apple butter stir, and shops brimming with goodies. 10am-5pm. Downtown Grand Rapids. www.applebutterfest.org

15 MONDAY Wee Ones: Bats - This program includes a story, activities and a craft.

It’s recommended for children 3 or under with an adult companion. 10-11am.

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

17 WEDNESDAY Camouflage in Nature - Take a nature hike to study things in nature that are hard to find. 6-7:30pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com

20 SATURDAY 14th Annual Enchanted Forest Walk - Take a stroll through our character-filled trail; groups will leave the “Doc” Phillips Discovery Center with a guide every 15 minutes. Warm up afterward by 18

• October 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

the outside fireplace and enjoy refreshments. Participants are required to be ages 5 and up. Register by Thursday, October 18. 7-8:30pm. $2. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Lane.

419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com

22 MONDAY Open Arms Annual Meeting - The Open Arms Annual Meeting will feature special guest Beth Holloway. Join Beth as she shares her journey through a mother’s worst nightmare. When her daughter vanished in Aruba in 2005, Beth’s world changed forever. Now she tours the nation raising awareness with her story of inspiration. Reservations are required

by October 18th. 7-10pm. Free. Parkview Church, 15035 E. St 12. 419-420-9261. www.openarmsfindlay.org

27 SATURDAY Passport to Fishing Workshop Spaces are still available for adults,

groups, or conservation clubs who have a sincere interest in taking kids fishing and want to become certified fishing instructors. Passport to Fishing is a one-day instructor training program that qualifies individuals to become Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife certified fishing instructors, similar to a hunter education instructor. All participants will need to pass a background check before being certified. 9am-4pm. Free. Wildlife District Two, 52 Lima Ave. 419-429-8347. www.wildohio.com

28 SUNDAY Fairy Fun - Bring your family out to frolic with fairies! Enjoy children’s activities all about these little nature lovers and listen to fairy tales too. Take a hike to search for fairies then return to the Discover Center to make a fairy house of your own. Feel free to come dressed as your favorite storybook character or pixie. 1-4pm.

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

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

HELP WANTED Freelance writers needed. Send

Advertorial

A burning issue

How good is your fire protection plan?

Statistics show that most fatalities and property damage caused by residential fires occur after the first critical minutes. These incidents can be avoided if the fire is fought immediately. How is this possible? Only through a complete and balanced approach to fire protection that targets the fire from the inside out during the first few minutes. These initial minutes determine the path a fire will take—from a single flame to a fatal tragedy. To avoid the worst, we need to focus on designing a balanced fire protection plan—the first line of defense against fire before the fire department arrives.

The number of residential fires over the years remains consistent. That is why it is more important than ever to ensure that once a fire begins, all systems are in place to contain the initial flames while your family exits safely.

According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), a successful balanced fire protection plan should be designed so that your life does not depend solely on any single safeguard. Multiple safeguards shall be provided for your family’s safety in case something is ineffective due to human error or system failure. How to make sure your family is protected from unnecessary danger? Follow these simple steps:

resume to: editor@findlayfamily.com

Drivers needed to deliver Findlay

Area Family in Findlay and surrounding areas: Once a month, great pay.

Send resume to distribution@findlayfamily.com

Career Opportunity: Develop a

sales/construction management profession with established company.

419-754-1152

^ Assess your current safeguards ^ Obtain necessary equipment (escape ladders, fire extinguishers, smoke & fire alarms) ^ Install equipment and create a plan for regular checks and maintenance by competent fire equipment service personnel ^ Practice your evacuation plan with your family

Adapted from Fire Equipment Manufacturers’ Association, Inc. report: Balanced Fire Protection to Promote Life Safety, for Stump’s Fire Protection

words or less. Each additional word is 40 cents each and any artwork will be $5 extra.

Display Classifieds: Display classifieds with a box may be purchased for $25 per column inch. Photos are accepted with ads for an additional $5 per photo.

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

Payment:

Payment must be received before an ad can be placed. We accept checks, cash, money orders and credit cards (Visa/ Mastercard).

Mail or drop off:

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

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

Misprints: Credit toward future ads.

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 XX

Feeling Stressed?

Need to feel your best?

You’re worth it!

Call Licensed Massage Therapist

Jackie Jones

419-420-9955

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

By appointment only

to place your ad

www.findlayfamily.com • October 2012 •

19

20

• October 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com