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FREE January 2014

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Tips & Tricks to keep your little ones healthy

Moms Weigh In

"Rules of thumb" to avoid sick days home from school

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Snow Belt Baby Snow days mean winter bliss for the Barto family

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Mother Mayhem p12 On how to keep calm and carry on

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• January 2014 • www.findlayfamily.com

departments 5 6 7 7 11 16

Volume 5 • Issue 1

January 2014 www.findlayfamily.com

commentary

12 mother mayhem

Keep Calm and Carry On what’s briefly happening Hoping for a frazzle free New Year community snapshots exceptional families tween the lines healthy kids calendar — compiled by Marisa Rubin and Chloe Rothschild

19 marketplace

— by Mary Helen Darah

12 family planet

The Life of a Snow Belt Baby Moving from NY to Findlay means fewer snowflakes and a happier mom — by Rose Roccisano Barto

13 diary of a dad

Parenting Principles

Creating sibling relationships — by Matthew Reger

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

Online exclusives

15 food fight

Joey Fratello’s Promises Freshness

Take a bite out of this New-York-Italian pizzeria — by Sarah Mayle

16 likewise

A Parent’s Torch Song The laughs behind being a dad — by Samuel Kaplan

features

through Pandora

commentary

14 parent profile

Big Home with a Big Heart

The Waltons show what it means to love unconditionally — by Sarah Mayle

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www.findlayfamily.com • January 2014 • Aero eats natic

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Adams Street Publishing Co. “What’s your rule of thumb for keeping yourself and your family healthy throughout the winter?”

Publisher/Editor in Chief

KIDS HOROSCOPE December 22January 19

By Sue Lovett

They come into the world wide-eyed and calm. They love to be touched and express their feelings openly. As toddlers they walk around looking really smart, sometimes making you feel they know more than you do.

They are curious and eager to be helpful, especially to older people. In school they are teacher’s pet and often tell their classmates and friends how to behave. They make sure they have your attention by touching you and looking you straight in the eye. Then they talk, talk, and talk some more.

This time of year they enjoy traditional activities such as handling antique decorations and attending family gatherings.

They love clocks and watches and anything that makes a ticking noise. They are climbers and like to be on the top of the couch looking down at everyone else in the room. They enjoy helping you plan menus and going with you to grocery shop. Give them responsibilities.

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) MODERATION

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) Exercise and more exercise

Editorial

Assignment Editor: Nadine Akra (nadine@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Dressing in layers Calendar: Marisa Rubin (mrubin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Sleep a lot Social Media Specialist: Brandon Doriot (aspcmedia@gmail.com) Veggie Pizza?

Staff Writer: Griffin Messer-Kruse (griffin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Eat locally grown organic Contributing Writers: Mary Helen Darah, Erin Marsh, Sue Lovett, Christine Holliday, Jeff Berry

Art/Production

Art Director: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) An apple a day Graphic Design: Brittney Koehl (adsin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Apples and Jif-To-Go Peanut Butter Megan Anderson (manderson@toledoparent.com) Dressing for the weather. Sometimes at the expense of fashion Jameson Staneluis (jameson@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Walk every day Kyle Iwanicki (kyle@adamsstreetpublishing.com) A vegetarian diet & copious amounts of BMX Sara Welborn (production@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Happy lights in every room to combat S.A.D.

Advertising Sales Manager: Aubrey Hornsby (ahornsby@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Family, healthy, winter? Ha! Sales Coordinator: Emily Gibb (classifieds@toledoparent.com) YOGA Customer Service Representative: Lydia Schaefer (lydia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Laugh a lot!

Administration

Accounting: Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) Walking my dog!

Distribution: Michelle Flanagan (distribution@toledoparent.com) Eat Vegetables, especially brussel sprouts and green beans :) Publisher’s Assistant: Jan Thomas (jthomas@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Healthy eating-homemade & organic (slow food)-no processed or fast food!

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter: facebook.com/findlayfamily twitter.com/findlayfamily

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 $30 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.

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Entire contents © 2014 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

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• January 2014 • www.findlayfamily.com

Snaps

COMMUNITY Brrrrr...

Baby it’s cold

outside!

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Go online to see more reader photos @ findlayfamily.com

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Send us your photos!

Email with name, age & hometown to: production@ adamsstreetpublishing.com.

By sending photos, you give us permission to publish now, in the future or on our website and Facebook page.

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www.findlayfamily.com • January 2014 •

Grant Rider,

7, Arlington

5

what’s

briefly happening...

Compiled By Rose Roccisano Barto

Penguins and Pinecones for Funday Sunday A little penguin’s unlikely friendship with a pinecone will kick off the Mazza Museum’s Funday Sunday series for 2014. A “Penguin Party” will be hosted by the museum featuring the book “Penguin and Pinecone” by Salina Yoon. Yoon’s artwork is also a part of the collection of the museum, an internationally-recognized facility dedicated to preserving and promoting children’s literacy. The day will feature handson stations including Japanese origami and storytelling. A special “challenge station” will offer children, ages nine and older, age-appropriate activities. Funday Sunday also offers toddler storytimes and tours of its exhibits.

Sunday, January 12 from 1:30-3:30pm. The University of Findlay campus in the Virginia B. Gardner Fine Arts Pavilion, 1000 North Main St., Findlay. For more information, call 419434-4460 or visit www.findlay.edu/offices/ academic/mazzamuseum. Free.

Cure the Winter Blues with

FFE & Pantasia Performance

Two local musical powerhouses will join forces for a concert sure to beat the winter blues with song, dance and steel drums. Findlay First Edition and Pantasia, acclaimed groups at Findlay High School, will bring their own brands of entertainment to the evening. FFE has claimed more than 75 grand championships and more than 34 national awards in its 30 years. Accompanied by award-winning musical ensemble, The Boingers, the 50-member show choir most recently won several awards at the Ada Music Fest. Pantasia will bring a taste of the Caribbean with steel drums, the national instrument of the island nations of Trinidad and Tobago. Now in its seventeenth season, the group has performed internationally and across the U.S., and has also been featured on five of its own CDs including “Caribbean Christmas.”

Friday, January 24 at 7:30pm. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. R.L. Heminger Auditorium at Findlay High School, 1200 Broad Ave., Findlay. Purchase tickets from the Arts Partnership at 419-422-4624 or by visiting www.artspartnership.com.

Staying Active Outdoors with

Winter Hikes and Woodpeckers

“Take a hike” takes on new meaning in the winter thanks to the Hancock County Park District. Cabin fever can be cured by participating in the winter activities hosted by the park district.

Whether you want to stay inside or try one of the trails with your toddler, the park district has several ideas to get you out of the house. Learn all about woodpeckers with a preschool educational program at the “Doc” Phillips Discovery Center at Oakwoods Nature Preserve. The program is recommended for children ages three to six, though other aged siblings are also welcome. It includes a story, activities and Preschool Educational a craft. Beavers get the spotlight, same time and Program: Mondays, place, on January 27. Also, A winter hike will be January 6 and 27 at hosted at the Riverbend Recreation Area. Dress for 10am. “Doc” Phillips the weather and enjoy a brisk hike in the winter Discovery Center at woods!

Oakwoods Nature Winter Hike: Sunday January 18 from 1-3pm. Beginning at Preserve, 1400 shelter #3 at Riverbend Recreation Area, 16618 Township Oakwoods Lane off Road 208., Findlay. For more information, contact the park County Road 144., district at 419-425-PARK or visit www.hancockparks.com.

Findlay. Free

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• January 2014 • www.findlayfamily.com

“Lego” have some fun at the Library

Lego fans – both the young and young at heart – will find plenty of activities to test their skills in January. First up is the Lego Challenge where Legomaniacs can build models that use gears, axles and pulleys. Working in teams with guided instruction from Snapology, children of all ages and abilities can build together. Need more Lego love? Snapology will host several afterschool classes with thousands of Legos. Starting in January, classes begin in Lego Engineering, Amusement Park Adventures Camp, Mini-figure Mania and Combat Robots. A small fee is charged for the afterschool classes, which run for several weeks. The Discovery Center is also open for Lego play, from 6 to 8 pm. on Fridays and for parties on the weekends. Free play in the Discovery Center starts at $10 for two hours.

The Lego Challenge, Monday, January 6 from 6:30 to 7:30pm. The Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St., Findlay.

Free.

The January Snapology classes take place at The Discovery Center, 15041 Flag City Drive (next to City BBQ). For more information on Snapology events, call 419-701-9529 or visit findlay.snapology.com.

THE LINES TWEEN advice for parents with children 10-16

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(Left) Cody Towell getting a head start at the U of F (Below) Cody on a mission trip to Haiti

Showing Love on the Ice Rink

Jackson Doll shows the true meaning of a Gliding Star

By Kay Matthias

Scan this QR Code to see Jackson’s story.

All Ends of the Spectrum Tween Cody Towell does it all

By Sarah Mayle

Dermatologist or Christian music singer/songwriter? They’re two fields at pretty opposite ends of the skills spectrum, but they’re at the top of 16year-old Cody Towell’s list for the future.

Knowing him, he might just do both.

Homeschooled since fifth grade, Towell has availed himself of an exceptional opportunity to get involved in the community and try out an array of activities.

Towell is involved with Gateway Church and volunteers in the nursery there. He also assists with Vacation Bible School, and is a member of the Nazarene Youth Group. In 2011, Cody went on a church-sponsored mission trip to Haiti.

“It gave me more of an appreciation of school and of the need for clean drinking water,” Towell said of the trip. “It definitely gave me a love for the country and its people. I loved the kids there. They were so appreciative.”

Cody was so moved by the trip that he is looking into learning Haitian Creole, the island nation’s language. His dermatology ambition stems from his desire to take that knowledge with him on more mission trips.

Towell loves Christian music and has written and performed his own material. He’s taken voice lessons and plays piano and guitar, with future

plans to submit his musical work to a producer.

“The Lord has helped me through (difficult trials) and He has been my fortress,” Towell said. “I would love to use music as a ministry to help people through their own trials.”

In addition to his involvement with the church, Towell has been an ice skater with the Findlay Silver Blades for eight years. He practices three times a week in season, which culminates with a performance in March. Cody is also an instructor for the Gliding Stars of Findlay and is training to become an ice dancing partner to earn money for medical school.

On the side, Cody works at Kumon Learning Center, babysits, cleans houses, takes post-secondary option classes at the University of Findlay, and has held the lead role in both a musical and another play through the Arts Partnership. This year, Cody and his family will arrange their third Christian Prom for those who “want an encouraging and appropriate atmosphere.”

And not many can say this: Cody recently sang for “Mandisa” of American Idol fame in a talent competition while on a cruise with his family.

“She said she liked my voice,” Towell said.

For Cody, the future’s not bright – it’s blazing.

Nine-year-old Jackson Doll of Findlay has never had a playdate, gone to a birthday party or been to a movie theatre, but he has shown his ice-skating skills to a packed arena full of cheers.

Jackson’s mom, Jennifer, decided to enroll her autistic son in the local program, The Gliding Stars, an organization that provides individuals with the opportunity to increase their personal potential through ice-skating. The Doll family began to realize that their previous views on Jackson’s “limitations” were based on the natural desire to protect Jackson and being unsure of the expectations for a son with a disability.

“Part of me thinks, God, why didn’t I expect more from him all along? I think he can do anything now,” says Jennifer at the conclusion of an emotionally-inspiring documentary about Jackson’s journey into the program. The documentary created by Timber and Frame (formerly Severance Visuals), is posted on the Gliding Stars of Findlay website, www.glidingstars.org/findlay.html, along with a blog written by Jennifer about the family’s gains as participants.

In the documentary, Jennifer says she was feeling hesitant and skeptical as she made her way to the doors of The Cube ice arena with Jackson for that first Sunday afternoon session. “I thought there is no way that Jackson’s going to ice-skate,” she said. “We got out there and put on his

ice-skates and HE…. WAS….. MAD!” Approximately 20 minutes later, and with the help from others to calm and encourage Jackson, he was finally able to venture onto the ice. Still feeling tense and apprehensive for her son, Jennifer says that about 12 parents came up to her to voice their support.

“Not one person cared that Jackson was screaming,” Jennifer said. “I felt so safe then, in a roomful of people that understood.” Once the session was over, she called her mom to give her the news.

“How was it?” asked Jennifer’s mother anxiously. “It was the most horribly wonderful thing I’ve ever done,” she said crying.

The Gliding Stars organization requires that its participants take part in a regular program of instruction and practice, culminating in a demonstration of skills in an end-of-season, on-ice, choreographed, public performance. The staff concentrates on building the motivation, teamwork and increased self-esteem of each participant. The organization was founded in 1994 and Jean Folkerth got the ball rolling to establish Findlay’s chapter in 2002. Continuing the work to change people’s lives is program coordinator, Cindy Bregel.

For information about the Gliding Stars program or to view the documentary, Go Jackson Doll, visit www.glidingstars.org/findlay.html.

www.findlayfamily.com • January 2014 •

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TOP DOCS Special Advertising Section

2013

2013

We all know how hard it can be to get kids excited about veggies instead of French fries, outdoor activities instead of video games, and keeping their pearly whites, well, pearly. Findlay Area Family asked medical experts in the area to help you help your kids be healthy!

Healthy is Hip

By Jeff Berry

Blanchard Valley Pediatrics

Parents can encourage their children to eat healthy by setting an example and modeling healthy food behaviors.

A balanced diet is essential for a child’s overall health. And, unfortunately, when they’re not sitting at your dining room table, it’s hard to make sure they’re eating the right things. Dr. Ami Orr tells us how to encourage kids to make good choices for themselves.

“Parents can encourage their children to eat healthy by setting an example and modeling healthy food behaviors. Don’t have junk food in the house—refuse to buy it and don’t eat it in front of the kids.

Parents can help by sitting down at the table for dinner and making mealtime a social situation. Once the child is old enough, have them help with food preparation--even the younger kids can put veggies on a plate.”

Getting through the winter months without children getting the cold or flu is enough to make most moms do a victory dance. Dr. Orr discussed effective ways to make sure there’s more time enjoying winter activities and less time spent home sick from school.

“The flu shot for children is an option for parents. The advantages of getting the flu shot absolutely outweigh the risks. Influenza is as dangerous for the young as it is for the old. The more people that are vaccinated, the less likely influenza is going to spread to others. Mothers who are breast feeding can get a flu vaccination and pass some of that imbvpediatrics.com munity to the child, but no one under the age of six months can be 1818 Chapel Dr., Findlay; vaccinated. Pregnant woman can and should get the injectable flu 419-424-1922 vaccination.”

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• January 2014 • www.findlayfamily.com

TOP DOCS Special Advertising Section

Drs. Badik & Badik

Toledo Clinic ENT

The air is filled with pollutants, dust mites and pollen that give your little ones the sniffles and sneezes all too often. Dr. Jill Badik gives helpful tips on how to keep them more comfortable during allergy season and healthy throughout the year.

Sinus Center of Excellence Dr. Christopher Perry focuses on important topics

for your children when it comes to their ears, nose and throat. Children are susceptible to various problems with their ears, nose, and throat and in fact, more than 80 percent of children will experience an ear infection by age three.

“Children should be examined for ear, nose and throat health by a family doctor or pediatrician at least once a year. Every child receives a newborn hearing screening at birth. But if a child exhibits speech delay or if a parent suspects a hearing deficit, then a hearing test can be done at any time. If a child demonstrates a pattern of recurrent ear infections or tonsillitis, which are the most common problems seen in children, then an ENT consultation may be indicated. A set of ear tubes or tonsillectomy may break the cycle of ear infections or sore throat and lead to an improved quality of life for children. Because children are so prone to upper airway infections, a preventative measure parents can take is to encourage children to wash their hands or use a hand sanitizer. Parents should look out for signs and symptoms such as sinus drainage, fever, nasal congestion, sore throat, bad breath and cough which may indicate a sinus infection.” toledoclinicent.com 5800 Park Center Ct., Toledo

419-724-8368

“Keeping kids healthy starts with making sure they get plenty of rest and eat healthy.

Most children need eight to ten hours of sleep a night. This allows the body time to recover and rest from anything that it might be trying to fight off. Eating healthy foods and drinking plenty of fluids (water, juice, and milk) allows the body to have the proper nutrition to fight off any infections. Hand washing frequently throughout the day is also a good rule of thumb. Multivitamins are helpful, especially if a child is a picky eater and does not eat enough servings of fruits and vegetables. I recommend any over the counter vitamins; the Chewables are more popular with younger children.

The most common type of allergy is to pollens and dust. Allergies are caused by an overactive immune system that makes the body respond to the allergen as though it is trying to cause an infection in the body. To prevent children from developing bad allergies, a parent would need to try to reduce the exposure to the allergen as much as possible. Also, they can treat mild allergy symptoms with an antihistamine like Claritin or Zyrtec which can prevent the body from producwww.promedica.org/fostoria ing an over-reaction to the allergen when it comes in contact.

455 W. 4th St., Suite 100, Fostoria, A majority of the time, it is difficult to prevent bad allergies.

419-436-6681 At times, allergy shots are needed.”

Northwest Ohio Orthopedic and Sports Medicine

Taking care of our bones doesn’t stop with drinking a glass of milk every day. Dr. John Kaufman explains why it’s important for kids to have good posture, remain active, and eat the right things to help them stand taller and play harder.

“Make sure that the kids have a balanced diet— lots of fruits and vegetables, and a good choice of dairy products throughout the day. If they’re lactose intolerant, avoid the dairy, but they can still get a lot of the calcium through the dark green vegetables, like kale, broccoli, and spinach. Posture and stretching is very important for active kids. By having good posture, it helps them hold their head up high, giving them a confident air and helping them have a brighter outlook on life. By avoiding slouching, they will be less likely to pinch nerves, aiding nerve transmission by keeping the signal going down the nerves; resulting in improved balance.

Proper balance can prevent falls, which can cause a wide array of issues, like muscle tears or fractures. Having good posture can keep them happy, healthy, and active!” nwomedicine.com/pages/practice.html 7595 County Rd. 236, Findlay; 419-427-3117

www.findlayfamily.com • January 2014 •

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What do you do to keep your family healthy and happy during the winter?

By Jeff Berry

Findlay Area Family asked local moms what they do to keep themselves and their families healthy during the dreaded cold and flu season.

Denise Beach and her son, Hudson, 1

Q:

What do you do to keep your family healthy during the winter? “I make sure Hudson gets a flu shot, wash his toys regularly, and we play outside when we can.

When it comes to eating healthy, we play games to make meals more fun!”

Heather King and her son, Braylon, 2

Q:

What extra steps do you take to keep germs away in the colder months? “I make sure I clean my son’s toys a little more often in the winter.

We practice good hand-washing and I’m thankful that his school, YMCA CDC, practices that as well. Lysol wipes are my best friend in the winter months. I can’t wipe things down enough!”

Q:

What do you do to keep your son active indoors? “For indoor activities, my son loves to do yoga. He grabs my mat everyday and hands me the DVDs. It’s nice because it actually forces me to be active daily!”

Lynsie Smith and children, Cohen, 7, and Ady, 6

Q:

What do you do during the winter to keep your child from getting sick? “I’ve tried to teach my kids to always wash their hands.

They each pick out their own fun soap from the dollar store, “Superheroes” and “Strawberry Shortcake.” I also spray their toys down once a week with disinfectant spray.”

RaShay Everly and her children, Braydyn Biddle, 9, and Raegan Everly, 6

Q:

How do you get your child to eat healthy? “They like their fruits cut up into shapes.

I cut their apples into stars and they will eat them because it’s in a different, fun shape. My kids are also big peanut butter fans, so we like to mix peanut butter with bananas and apples to keep them eating healthy.”

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Q:

How do you make healthy eating fun for kids? “My kids are picky eaters, so eating healthy is a challenge. I use cookie cutters a lot to make their food fun and let them help me put together their snacks or dinner.”

Q:

Are there any activities you do in the winter to keep them active since it’s too cold to play outside? “We go to the YMCA for Family Swim a lot in the winter. The kids love to swim and it gets them out of the house.”

• January 2014 • www.findlayfamily.com

healthy kids

SEVEN BATH TIPS

Keep your kids safe in the water

By Meagan Ruffing

January is National Bath Safety Month Bath time serves many purposes. It’s a time to get your kids clean. It’s a time for your kids to splash around in shallow water and it’s a time for make believe sea water rescues and mermaid tea parties. Kids love the freedom that water has to offer and parents love to soak up their sweet smelling children wrapped up in warm, fluffy towels just before bedtime. With all of the great things there are to adore about bath time there can also be dangers if kids are left unattended. It may be tempting to leave the kids in the tub while you run to the laundry room “for just a second” or to grab your phone “real quick” but accidents can happen in those few seconds.

These 7 tips will help you create a safe environment and give your kids the freedom to splash around.

Make sure the temperature of the water is not too hot or too cold. Test it on your wrist first for a more accurate feel.

Better yet, buy one of those bath toy thermometers to help you figure out the correct temperature. Newborns get cold quicker since their skin is thinner.

Children can get cut very easily on the water spout. Be sure to cover it up with an inflatable cover to protect your kids from hitting up against it or accidently standing up and scraping their backs on it.

The best bath toys are those that do not have any holes in them. Water can get inside and mold can grow; making the bathtub a breeding ground for germs. You should wash bath toys regularly or toss the ones that do have holes in them after a few months of play.

Do not fill the bath so high with water that your kids could fall under and be completely submerged. Just a few inches of water will do for infants and about waist high for toddlers.

Always stay with your children while they are bathing. Accidents can happen in seconds and if your child is not old enough to know how to lift their head out of the water – drowning can occur.

Encourage your kids to play in the tub but leave jumping for outside of the bathtub. Toddlers like to test their boundaries and they like to splash, jump and watch the water fly out of the tub. Slipping in the bathtub can lead to a serious injury. Be sure to keep them seated in the tub or supervised while standing to wash.

Keep little fingers out of the drain.

The drain holes are usually very small but small fingers can easily get stuck if you are not watching your child closely. Bath time should remain fun while being safe. Encourage your children to use their imagination and explore their surroundings. Scrub-a-dub-dub!

Meagan Ruffing is a freelance parenting writer.

She loves bath time just as much as her kids do and enjoys finding fun and creative ways to make bathing more fun.

www.findlayfamily.com • January 2014 •

11

Keep Calm and Carry On

The Life of a Snow Belt Baby

Moving from New York to Findlay means fewer snowflakes and a happier mom

By Rose Roccisano Barto

The Bartos celebrate the snow if it means a school closing

Whenever my kids complain about having to go to school in the snow, I tell my story about growing up in the snow belt of New York.

Upstate New York is not for sissies.

Snow is measured in feet there. I went to school at a university that prides itself on being in one of the top cities for snowfall every year. We have several pictures of my dad shoveling snow with the piles above his head. And in Upstate New York, we rarely, if ever, had a snow day in elementary or high school.

Rare occasion: school closing

That reputation must be what my mother relied on one morning when she bundled me up and sent me off to walk to school. I got to the school and it was locked tight. I walked around and knocked on the window of the school secretary’s office.

She came to the door and said to go home because it was a snow day.

So I hold the dubious distinction of being one of the few kids whose parents sent them to school on a snow day.

I couldn’t really blame my mom, since snow days were so rare back then. Now that I have children, however, it seems like many mornings during the winter, I am glued to the TV’s school closings scrawl.

Every text is immediately reviewed to see whether it’s a delay or a closing.

I don’t know who is happier when school closes – me or my kids.

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Don’t make me drive in the snow

When I was younger, I was a pretty fearless winter driver. You have to be to survive in the snow belt. I drove home from a college break in heavy snow at night – I drove slowly and carefully, and got there safely. When I worked in Fremont, I never missed work for weather.

And even when I lived in the south, I commuted just fine with the exception of the Blizzard of 1993.

Now, I hate driving in the snow.

Part of it might be getting older and not wanting to deal with it. Part of it might be the way streets are cleared in Findlay.

Many times my street was not cleared and was made passable only by trucks tamping down the snow. Part of it might be other motorists who seem to believe that speeding and tailgating are acceptable, even with poor road conditions.

Either way, I look forward to peeking out my front window after an overnight snowfall to see what the street looks like. I can tell based on the condition of my street if there is a delay or closing. I’ve been wrong a handful of times in nine years but, more often than not, I am right even before the text comes to my phone.

No one can predict what this winter will bring. I hate snow. But when it comes – and it will – we will hunker down inside and wait it out. I might be a Snow Belt Baby, but I am also a cautious driver who knows all it takes is a few flakes.

Hoping for a frazzle free New Year

By Mary Helen Darah

I experienced an English tea room recently while visiting my Uncle Tom in New Orleans. He took me there because the Queen of England shares my birthday of April 21. Many think that her day of birth is in June. Don’t be fooled. She celebrates in June because the weather is more desirable to ride her horse around the square.

I guess being queen, she can call the shots. I ate a lovely lunch on fine china and drank tea with an extended pinky- that led to many trips to the loo the remainder of the day- and left me feeling content and cultured. The “takeaway” moment for me, however, wasn’t the delectable scones, (well a bit of a take-away considering some of the scone left in my purse) but the memory of dining under a sign that boldly stated “KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON”.

According to our server the poster’s origin dates back to London at the beginning of the Second World War. It was intended to raise morale in the event of bombings, and explosions that could occur. Obviously, my issues are insignificant in comparison- although there is a lot of gas in a house with teens- it has become my new mantra and I plan on using it often in the year ahead.

New mantra in use

Little did I know that I would be reciting it over and over again so soon after leaving my uncle’s. I left for the airport from his home at 4 a.m. on a Saturday morning and arrived home Sunday at 5 p.m. Mind you, I am a grateful that we live in a world where it takes hours and not months to arrive at a desired destination and that there is little fear of a tribal attack or getting some freaky disease, but is was still daunting. Apparently, I chose to fly during one of the worst storms in decades. I experienced THE most horrific landing of my life. You know you are in trouble when the retired Royal Air Force pilot sitting next to you grabs your arm and says, “Hang on love. Things are going to get a bit wild.” After my initial disappointment from realizing that a man has never said that to me in another venue, I took a deep breath as we skidded down the runway and quietly repeated “KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON”. I used my new mantra numerous times that day; on the runway in a little prop plane that never was able to take off; while in line for three hours waiting to get another

• January 2014 • www.findlayfamily.com

connecting flight home; and in my Super 8 Hotel room where the weather conditions forced me to spend the evening. I discovered a full size fridge. Thankfully it contained leftover Chinese food and an unrecognizable alcoholic beverage instead of a body. Oddly, I was at peace that day, while my fellow travellers were less than composed, seeming to believe that the United Airways staff personally brewed up the storm to make their lives miserable.

Keeping calm at home

Now that I am finally home safe and sound, I use my calming chant daily— sometimes hourly. On the occasions when I find myself sitting in the passenger seat with my driver in training teen, I calmly explain that A. We are not in London and the right side of the road is the way to go and B. Turns are best taken at speeds less than 35 mph., I KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON. When my furnace dies, the water heater has a leaky nipple (tough to keep a straight face with that one) and apparently there is moisture in my crack—in the basement that is—I KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON. Upon hearing, “Mom, I kind of dropped your phone in pumpkin muffin batter,” or “Mom, Maggie (the pooch) just ate a Fiber One Bar from the pantry,” again, “KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON”. Of course, my new found mantra has its limits. As a cancer survivor, during a recent scan, I resorted to “KEEP CALM- take an Ativan- AND CARRY ON”, but it did help.

A friend and fellow cancer survivor uses a visual to maintain her serenity. She imagines herself floating down a stream.

Of course, life has a way of throwing some heavy currents her way, and when it does, she doesn’t fight the turbulence.

She moves with the current and has faith that tranquil waters are up ahead. However, these are my words of summation not hers. My buddy Virginia would say, “GIRL, what are you thinking, swimming so hard? All you have to do is float through the rough stuff until you get to the smooth waters? By the way, you have too much sh** in your stream.” Either way, whether you choose to visualize or chant again and again and again, as long as it takes, I wish you a frazzle-free, unruffled year ahead with smooth waters.

KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON!

Parenting Principles through Pandora A father looks at how to create lasting sibling relationships ­­­

By Matthew Reger

Pandora has had an impact on my parenting. Through the algorithms of the on-line listening site, a song I had never heard came to my ears. The words caused me to consider a failed relationship and how I could make amends through my own children.

The Picture, by Louden Wainwright III, is about a photograph of a brother and sister sitting at a card table coloring on paper. The black and white photo was taken when the brother was five and his sister four. In the song he is looking back forty years after the image was captured, reflecting on a lost time. As he reminisces he realizes that the simple scene reflects all that was important in his world at five years old; a time when concerns didn’t go farther than coloring within the lines and sharing with his sister. Forty years later that image is as compelling as it is heartbreaking because relationships are no longer that easy and life is much more complicated.

Remembering a lost relationship

I have a picture like that of my sister and me. In the picture we are happy, sitting on a rock near the Atlantic Ocean, taking a break after we finished running on the beach. We were eight years apart and for a brief time in our lives we were inseparable. She would ride on my wagon while I delivered papers, we swam together in

the lake near our home, and she looked up to her older brother in a way I really never deserved.

What caused us to drift apart I really can’t say; maybe it was when I left for college, but I think it was before that. Whenever it happened, there is no relationship now.

We rarely speak and our lives move in different places.

Even if I tried I don’t think I could break through to discover what happened to separate us. It is not anger or animosity; it is lives that are so far apart the only commonness is our parents.

Hoping for a lifetime of love

As I contemplate that relationship I look at my own children. They are four years apart and seem to be devoted to each other. They play, pick at, and tattle on each other. At one moment they will be coloring together at the dining room table, the next hitting each other, and then within minutes jumping off the couch in defiance of my protestations. They can be conspirators against their parents and enemies over a toy in a short span of time. But ultimately they come together and we make a family.

My concern is what happens years from now. What could my parents have done to stem the tide of separation between my sister and me? What can I do to encour-

age a continued, lifelong relationship between siblings? I have no answers to these imponderable questions. I just seem to plod along hoping I get it right without knowing how.

I try to find things that bind us as a family. We share a laugh when I say “have fun storming the castle”, both of them having seen The Princess Bride with me more times than we can count. We also share music and love to hear They Might be Giants sing Istanbul not Constantinople. “Why they changed it I can’t say, people just liked it better that way” is commonly sung on car trips.

Maybe it is as basic as that; as simple as the picture in the song. It is sharing the simple things in life and making them special to us. Maybe the glue I am seeking is in a shared laugh, a common experience or just a line from a movie. I don’t know, I’ll keep you posted.

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www.findlayfamily.com • January 2014 •

13

Big Home with a Big Heart

The Waltons show what it means to love unconditionally

By Sarah Mayle

The Waltons with their two biological sons, Tyler and Isaac, enjoying vacation

It’s time to

make history!

An important message from Gene Stevens: Each year, United Way of Hancock County sets out to raise funds to improve lives.

Right now, YOU have a chance to make history. We are very close to raising $3 million dollars for our community, and YOU can make it happen!

At this time, we are just a few thousand dollars away from not only surpassing last year’s amount raised, but hitting a fundraising milestone. Imagine the good things we could accomplish, as a community, with $3 million dollars. More children would be fed, more families could be taught to better manage their finances, and more cancer patients could receive much needed help.

Please take the time to make history. Give at your workplace, give online or mail your contribution. Every contribution helps! We can do this!

Visit LiveUnitedHancockCounty.org to donate or mail your contribution to: United Way of Hancock County 245 Stanford Pkwy Findlay, Ohio 45840

14

There is a photograph Mary Walton has that puts it all together. The picture captures eight happy, squirmy kids and her husband beaming at her from the fort-in-progress underneath the dining room table.

“That’s a snapshot of exactly what it should be,” said Mary, who is a foster parent with her husband, Mark. “It was so funny, all those grinning kids of all ages and colors, crammed under there having a good time.”

In six years, the Waltons have fostered 22 children from Wood, Sandusky, Hardin, and Hancock counties, and have provided respite care for Wyandot County. When the opportunity arose, they even adopted a sibling pair, a brother and sister - the first two foster children they ever had in their home near Upper Sandusky.

Mark, 56, and Mary, 55, have been married 26 years and have two grown sons. Right now, they have six children living under their roof – they have legal custody of one child, along with their two adopted children and three foster children. Some wonder how they do it, but they wouldn’t have it any other way.

Library visitors inspire the Waltons

It all started when Mary, who used to work at a local library, noticed that many children who came after school had no one to look after them, often until closing.

Library staff looked into the situation, but one day Mary came home and simply asked Mark if he might want to adopt a 7-year-old girl.

Mark was all for it, and though they did not actually adopt the girl, the conversation brought foster care into focus.

Months later, after an extensive process that included a physical, background checks, fingerprinting, an intensive home study and hours of preparatory classes, they fostered the girl for a short period until she moved to another state with relatives.

“She had never roasted marshmallows over an open fire or laid in a hammock,” Mary said. “It was sad. She was

• January 2014 • www.findlayfamily.com

a great pleasure to be around. She just soaked up the attention and affection.”

Not always easy, but always worth it

Foster care isn’t easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding, the Waltons said. The children who have lived with them may have behavior issues, have suffered abuse, or experienced hunger – but the Waltons use their training and the resources provided by the foster care system to best care for them. The children’s appreciation and love drive them on.

The goal of foster care is to establish a temporary home while a parent or relative is given time to be able to properly take care of the child, Mark said.

“It pretty much rips our hearts out when they have to go,” Mark said. “But we stay in contact with almost everyone that we’ve had. Their parents will send us pictures of how they’re growing up.”

Puling at the heart strings

Mary’s average day starts at 5 am.

She sends the older kids on the bus at 6:30 am, then spends the day keeping appointments – taking the kids to see birth parents, visit the doctor, maybe see a counselor. When she’s not doing that, it’s, “non-stop playing games, dressing up, coloring, playing with Play-Doh, reading books, listening to music… They love to dance,” she said.

During naps, she makes dinner, and when the older kids and Mark get home, they eat. She tries to have a cup of tea and rest while he plays with the children, and is usually up until about 10 pm with one of the babies.

“When I’m sitting there at night feeding a baby, they’re looking into my eyes, and I hold them up to burp them and they feel under my chin,” Mark said.

“You know they’re comfortable, happy and healthy. It’s an amazing feeling – that’s what we’re here for.”

Mark and Mary’s days are long, but they work together to accomplish what they love. Knowing the kids feel their love and feel secure makes it all worth it.

Joey Fratello’s promises freshness Take a bite out of this New-York-Italian pizzeria

By Sarah Mayle

The menu says Joey Fratello’s “only uses the freshest, finest ingredients available to bring you extraordinarily good flavor.” They aren’t kidding – it was evident in all of the food we sampled that it was high quality, and it tasted excellent.

Joey’s touts a wide selection on its menu, including appetizers and sides like Mediterranean calamari and bruschetta; they offer chicken wings; eight different salads, 19 specialty pizzas plus the option to create your own; calzones; 15 diverse oven-toasted sandwiches;

To avoid wait Consider calling for delivery, or ordering before heading in to eat Bathroom amenities Clean and adequate

116 E. Sandusky St. 419-427-JOEY www.joeyfratellos.com, also find them on Facebook Sun-Thurs 11 am to 10 pm Fri 11 am to 12 am Sat 11 am to 11 pm Delivery, carry-out and catering available.

“Meaty” menu of choices

Kid-friendly Yes

Noise level Good

Joey Fratello’s Pizzeria

As we were wrapping up our meal at Joey Fratello’s Pizzeria in downtown Findlay, my 5-year-old daughter peered over the plates from dinner, salad and appetizer, and offered, “This is like we’re having a feast!”

And that’s just what it felt like. Our family of four was stuffed. Early in the meal, we had set our sights on polishing off one of the gourmet dessert pizzas, but as we worked our way through our order, we just couldn’t think of eating another bite.

Joey Fratello’s is a family-owned, quaint pizzeria in downtown Findlay, offering New-York-Italian cuisine.

You pass the kitchen and giant pizza oven on the way in, greeted by staff. Booth and table seating are available amid a collection of mostly black and white photographs of historic New York City. There is also a large flat screen TV in the main dining area, and additional seating is available in the back of the restaurant.

THE SHORT COURSE

High Chairs Yes

Got Milk No, but iced tea is available

Kid’s Menu No, but accommodating for kids Anything healthy for the kids?

Yes, salads Food allergy concerns? As always, ask wraps; a variety of spaghetti choices; and dinners like baked rigatoni or ravioli, gnocchi with carbonara sauce, lasagna, chicken parmigiana; and even dessert pizza.

Deliciously feeding a family of four

My husband and I started with the 3 Cheese Breadsticks ($5.99). They arrived with marinara sauce for dipping and were wonderful - the warm, soft, flavorful cheese melts in your mouth straight out of the oven.

Joey Fratello’s does not have a kids’ menu, but we didn’t find that to be a problem. Most kids like pizza, and when we visited, our kids decided to split an order of spaghetti and meatballs ($7.99) and just use two separate plates.

My 8-year-old son is about as picky as it gets. But he, as well as his sister, really enjoyed the spaghetti.

It came with two massive meatballs and two soft, seasoned breadsticks.

My husband ordered a traditional cheese calzone, with pepperoni, ham and sausage ($3.99), and I ordered a side salad ($2.49) with ranch dressing and an 8-inch barbeque chicken specialty pizza ($6.99). I was impressed by the absolute freshness of the romaine lettuce, green peppers, red onion and shredded mozzarella cheese in my salad.

My pizza came with chicken, red onions, bacon, mozzarella cheese and barbeque sauce and had a wonderful taste. It was spicy and flavorful, yet had a nice texture, almost creamy. The bacon was crisp and I really

enjoyed it, but needed to request a box for half of the pizza.

We will definitely be back to Joey Fratello’s. The price was great for a family of four, and we want to try more of the entrées. There’s also one other reason for a return trip: We have unfinished business on the dessert menu.

www.findlayfamily.com • January 2014 •

15

{January 2014} A Parent’s Torch Song

Winter warm-ups Ever heard of cabin fever?

Don't worry! Beginning on January 7, the YMCA will provide a wide variety of wintertime activities. From family movie nights to sports teams and everything in between, there is something perfect for every member of your family. In preparation for summer, swimming lessons are a good idea for toddlers, either to learn how to tread water or keep up with their skills during the winter. On January 10th at 6pm, enjoy swimming, snacks and games during family pool night (also on February 14 & March 14). Health fitness classes range from the calm of yoga and pilates to the high-endurance classes like Insanity and kickboxing. Visit the Findlay YMCA website for a full brochure of lessons offered. Registration required.

Prices vary. Hours: Monday-Friday, 5am-10pm; Saturday, 7am-8pm; Sunday, 1pm-5pm. YMCA Downtown Branch, 300 E. Lincoln St. 419-422-4424. findlayymca.org —MLR

The laughs behind being a dad

By Samuel Kaplan

Ten years ago, when my oldest was eight, she asked completely out of the blue and apropos of nothing, “Daddy, what’s the ‘F-word?’” I nearly swerved off the road. But in a sense, I was pleased that she had apparently been shielded from so many crude and vulgar things.

This foolish belief came to a halt just a few days later when, while stopped first in line at a railroad crossing for a train, every imaginable vile, filthy, and degrading profanity appeared in large graffitistyle lettering on the railroad cars moving slowly before us. I looked back and saw her eyes behind her glasses moving back and forth eagerly tracking the words. After the train disappeared, I asked, “Well, what’d you think of that?” She said, “I already knew all the words. I had just never seen them all together like that.” So much for sheltering! Apparently, she had sheltered me from her knowledge. She is now eighteen and, thinking back over the years and that experience, I suppose the train was a rolling metaphor of sorts.

Parenting is a funny thing. It’s about so many different and, at times, competing efforts and concerns. It’s about being patient when you’re tired, and understanding when you’re angry. It’s about the tedium and monotony of day to day to day living: laundry and making school lunches and picking up the house. It’s about saying no again and again and again; particularly when it would be easier to simply cave and say yes but by saying no, parenting, rather than giving in and in today’s terminology, friending.

In a profound way, parenting also compels us to look back in time. And, of course, I selfishly wish that my children could have grown up when I did in a world of neighborhoods and not activities; where closest friends lo and behold just happened to be closest geographically rather than, as is so often done today, by common interest. But we do what little we can to recreate that mostly lost time and place. We give them the books we

16

read then and the best ones from today.

The same goes for music and movies all in the endeavor to make their world larger.

And, time and again, we turn off the electronics and push them out the back door to play. At eighteen, we change their direction and push them out the frontdoor instead. The oldest recently went without reluctance; the others likely will too, leaving memories to fill the quiet. And coming back to me in the new quiet is a final story, just a fragment really, and one which I don’t pretend offers any great lesson or meaning.

In the course of having three children in five years, many thousands of diapers were changed. At times they would be so filthy and stinking they couldn’t remain inside the house overnight. Some nights - particularly in winter - I would be too tired from the day to go down the stairs and out the back door to the garbage can to dispose of the mess. Instead, I’d open the bedroom window which looked out over the backyard and toss the offending diaper to the brick patio ten feet below to be retrieved and properly pitched the following morning.

Once, on a very early morning as winter was turning to spring, I found a lost diaper emerging from a melting snowbank. It was frozen stiff. And since the garbage can which stood perhaps twenty feet away didn’t have its lid on (as was often the case due to an enemy raccoon), I hurled the diaper through the air and across the driveway toward the awaiting can. When it actually went in and I didn’t have to scrape it up a second time, I lifted my arms in celebration.

This final scene, then: a middle-aged man alone in his backyard throwing his child’s months old frozen and filthy diaper at a garbage can; the same can he would later haul to the curb for pick-up before going back inside to the early and still morning quiet.

Samuel Z. Kaplan is a Toledo attorney and president of the city’s Civil Service Commission.

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

3 FRIDAY Walleye vs. Reading - Enjoy a night of hockey as the Toledo Walleye take on Reading. 7:15pm. Prices vary, see website.

The Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave., Toledo. 419-321-5007. huntingtoncentertoledo.com

4 SATURDAY Snowflake Workshops - Learn the art of Scherenchnitte (paper cutting) with snowflake expert, Mary Gaynier. Make beautiful creations to decorate your home all winter long. 1-4pm. Also on January 5, 1-4pm.

General admission. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way, Toledo. 419-244-2674. imaginationstationtoledo.org

5 SUNDAY Funday Sunday - Each month features activities, games and story time around a different theme. 1:30-3:30pm. Mazza Museum, 300 College St. 419-434-4560. mazzacollection.org Free

• January 2014 • www.findlayfamily.com

Jupiter - Tonight, Jupiter will be directly opposite the sun in the night sky. Come check out Jupiter and some of its moons in the planetarium. Recommended for ages 5+. Registration required by January 3.

2pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, “Doc” Phillips Discovery Center, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free Sandusky County YMCA-Fremont Annual Open House - Enjoy free fitness classes, tour and utilize the facilities, and take advantage of one-day-only membership promotions. Noon-4pm. Sandusky County YMCA-Fremont, 1000 N. St., Fremont. 419-322-9622. atTheY.org Free Impressionism - Bring the whole family to the TMA to create an impressionistic work of art using texture and reflection.

Noon-4pm. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St., Toledo. 419-255-8000. toledomuseum.org Free

6 MONDAY Discover Story: Woodpeckers - This fun program includes a story, hands-on activities and a craft. Recommended for children ages 3-6 with an adult companion.

10am & 1pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve,

“Doc” Phillips Discovery Center, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free

8 WEDNESDAY Tales For Tots - The Mazza Museum offers fun-themed story times on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, with new stories to engage children at each session. Also on January 22. 11-11:30am.

Mazza Museum, 300 College St. 419-434-4560. mazzacollection.org Free

10 FRIDAY Cinderella: Moscow Festival Ballet Company - The Moscow Festival Ballet brings Cinderella - A Storybook Production to The Valentine. All ages will be delighted with the humor, whimsy, and gorgeous scenery and costumes. Enjoy this fantastic production with your family, and experience the beloved Cinderella story in a whole new way! Music by Sergei Prokofiev.

8pm. $36-$56. The Valentine Theatre, 410 Adams St., Toledo. 419-242-ARTS. valentinestheatre.com Pizza Party and Planetarium Show - Families will enjoy pizza and drinks followed by the Stars in the Sky Planetarium Show. You will learn about constellations present in the sky tonight.

Participants must sit on floor, bring along a pillow if you wish. Ask about handicap accessibility. Registration required by January 7th. 5:30-7:30pm. $5. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, “Doc” Phillips Discovery Center, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-4257275. hancockparks.com

11 SATURDAY Sibshop - Many brothers and sisters have feelings that are difficult to express, even to a friend. At Sibshop, they’ll share these feelings with others who truly understand.

10am-1pm. Alternate Learning Center, 3939 Wrenwood, Toledo.

419-214-3066. siblingsupport.org Free

12 SUNDAY Toledo Walleye vs. Wheeling Nailers - Enjoy a night of hockey as the Toledo Walleye take on the Wheeling Nailers. 5:15pm. Prices vary, see website.

The Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave., Toledo. 419-321-5007. huntingtoncentertoledo.com What a Character! - Let your child’s imagination run wild when their favorite book characters come to life through music and song. Before the matinee at 3pm, enjoy pre-concert activities from the Toledo Lucas County Public Library.

2-4pm. The Valentine Theatre, 410 Adams St., Toledo. 419-246-8000. valentinetheatre.com

15 WEDNESDAY Dr. Who Teen Club - Dr. Who Teen fans this is for you. Monthly club will feature crafts, video clips, discussion and games!

Wear your fan gear. See the teen flier for more details. For grades 6-12. 6-7pm.

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

continued on pg. 18

www.findlayfamily.com • January 2014 •

17

MONDAY-FRIDAY

Mom & Tot Skate, Enjoy ice skating with friends and family. 10am-11am. $3, skates included. The CUBE, 3430 N. Main St. 419-424-7176. findlayohio.com

MONDAYS

Open Studio, This studio time is for students to independently explore art.

All ages and abilities welcome. Anytime between 3-5pm. $10 per child/$5 per additional sibling. Awakening Minds Art, 515 S. Main St. 419-302-3892. awakeningmindsart.org

TUESDAYS

Sculpture Class, Individuals of all ages and abilities will have fun learning sculpture techniques and creating beautiful pieces of art. 6:30-7:30pm. $10.

Awakening Minds Art, 515 S. Main St. 419-302-3892. awakeningmindsart.org Jr. Teens in Action, 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. On the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. 5:30– 6:30pm. Grades 6-8. Camp Fire USA,

305 W. Hardin St. 419-422-5415. campfireusa-nwohio.com

WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY

Baby Storytime, Babies will love listening to songs and stories. Starting January 15. 9:45-10:15am. Free. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. findlaylibrary.org

WEDNESDAYS

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

11:30am-12:15pm. $8-$17. YMCA, Downtown Branch, 300 E. Lincoln St. 419-422-4424. findlayymca.org

Painting Class, Individuals of all ages and abilities will have fun at this painting class. 6:30-7:30pm. $10. Awakening Minds Art, 515 S. Main St. 419-3023892. awakeningmindsart.org

THURSDAYS

Combat Robots, During this 6-week course kids will build their very own robot. Registration required. January 16-February 20. 5-6pm. $75 for 6-week session. Snapology’s Discovery Center, 15041 Flag City Dr. 419-701-9529. findlay.snapology.com

17 FRIDAY Free-Flight Butterfly Exhibit - The Toledo Zoo kicks off it’s year-long celebration of flight by opening a butterfly freeflight exhibit. Butterflies flutter by as you and your family explore. Entry is free with regular Zoo admission. Through March 2.

10am. Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way, Toledo.

419-385-4040. toledozoo.org

18 SATURDAY Kids in the Park: Winter Hike - Get out and enjoy a brisk hike in the winter woods; fun for the whole family. 1-3pm.

Riverbend Recreation Area, Shelter 3, 16618 Township Rd. 208.

419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free Science Day - Young minds will be intrigued and challenged as they have fun learning about science through demonstrations. Takes place in Nature’s Neighborhood, so the usual play and exploring can be enjoyed as well. 10am.

Free with zoo admission. Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way, Toledo. 419-385-5721. toledozoo.org American Girl Club - You are invited to the monthly American Girl Club.

Participants will discuss their favorite American Girl dolls and make a craft.

Feel free to bring your American Girl doll along. 2pm. Barnes and Noble, 4940 Monroe St., Toledo. 419-472-6164. barnesandnoble.com Free Perfect Little Planet - Join a family of friendly aliens in search of the ultimate space vacation. Experience the solar system from a distinctly different viewpoint as you soar over the surface of Pluto, sail through the beautiful rings of Saturn and dare the ferocious lightning storms of Jupiter. Reservations encouraged.

Also on January 25. 7-8pm. Adult, $5 / 12 and under, $4. Lourdes University Appold Planetarium, 6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania. 419-517-8897. lourdes.edu/planetarium

21 TUESDAY Special Needs Planning Series At this informational lecture, attendees will learn how to plan for the future of their special needs child, as well as the use of Medicaid and the Wonderful World of Waivers. Childcare available at this event. 6:30-8:30pm. Please RSVP by Jan. 14th. Toledo Hospital Croxton Memorial Auditorium, 2142 N. Cove, Toledo.

18

• January 2014 • www.findlayfamily.com

25

28 TUESDAY

SATURDAY

Teen Movie Night - Popcorn and pop provided. Recommended for teens 6th-12th grade. Parent permission form on file is required. 5:30-8pm. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. findlaylibrary.org Free

Beginner Snowshoeing Workshop - Individuals will learn the snowshoe technique and take a hike on snowshoes. Wear layered clothing, including a hat and gloves. Participants are required to be 6 years or older. Youth must register with a participating adult.

Register with payment by Friday before the workshop at the HPD Office. Workshop is subject to adequate snow and weather conditions (at least 3-5 inches of snow base is required). 9-10:30am. $10 (includes snowshoe rental). Riverbend Recreation Area Shelter 3, 16618 Township Rd. 208.

419-425-7275. hancockparks.com

26

30

Rodents - Did you know that 4 of every 10 mammals is a rodent? Come learn all you’ve ever wanted to know about mice, squirrels and other members of this order. Rodents of Ohio will be highlighted.

Information, activities and games for kids will also be on hand. 1-4pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, “Doc� Phillips Discovery Center, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free

27 MONDAY Wee Ones: Beavers - Program includes a story, activities and a craft.

Recommended for children 3 years old and younger with an adult companion. Other aged siblings welcome. 10am & 1pm.

Oakwoods Nature Preserve, “Doc� Phillips Discovery Center, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. hancockparks.com Free

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THURSDAY

Social Media and Kids - Kate Fineske, a mother of 3 and staff member of the National Association of Mothers’ Centers, will share the advantages and disadvantages of allowing kids to use social media and where (and if) there are privacy settings available to help parents maintain some control and safety. The presentation is geared mostly toward parents of middle school students and below, but all are welcome. 7-8pm. Sylvania Branch Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. toledolibrary.org Free

SUNDAY

Things you need to KNOW

And before you leave the site don't forget to sign up for The Morning Buzz to receive a list of the coolest events taking place around Findlay everyday and the upcoming weekend.

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

marketplace HELP WANTED

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.

MORE

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).

events online

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

Misprints: Credit toward future ads.

findlayfamily.com

SERVICES

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WHERE WILL YOUR

Freelance writers needed. Send resume to: editor@findlayfamily.com

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KIDS

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Make sure you are a part of February’s Education Guide, where parents turn to ďŹ nd the best schools for their kids!

419.244.9859

to place your ad in Findlay Family FAVORITES

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CALL TODAY TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE! 419.244.9859 www.findlayfamily.com • January 2014 •

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