Toledo Parent - January 2022

SPONSORED COVER

JAN./FEB. 2022

Toledo

Mompreneurs: Doing it all From Home

2022

Wellness Guide Start the New Year with Healthy Habits

ands & p x E l o o h c S ic s u Forté M es s s la C e im T n u F Adds Music

ni rehto yna ekilnu raey loohcs a no krabme ew sA evintci aredhnto a tyrnoapepkuislneuhrtareoyf llo uo fkhncashat neo r’ekwra,b yrm oteseihwrusA o ev,iff tcaatsdrnuaot,rsorepnptursapehyttirnouf m lum fko ncahrut oerf’eowno,yitraop tsiichitrru o ap sl’eruwo,s,syraew ntlaraFacebook.com/TPSProud mamf o oa nstoniteadpuictsitrru ap e,cffaaftltps.org spAy.stieniluim ricehrut odnfTwitter.com/TPSProud o Facebook.com/TPSProud Twitter.com/TPSProud estcraafeltps.org l’erw ,sn yai w laoh sAh.tsiewilism afitrireuhot fdonsaesgtnneeldlauhtcs reuhot h u o e p e m 1609 N. Summit St. Toledo, Ohio 43604 strae.1609 horiutaocN. nuideeSummit poothtn hetim w tSt. sim em itorcugonfioresOhio lanhacdenhat n m veagwnneul43604 Toledo, .noitacude ot tnemtimmoc gnirevawnu na dna

Partering with local employers and industry As we embark with on a school yearemployers unlike any other and in Partering local industry for onsite instruction and training As we embark on a school year unlike any other in our history, we’re thankful for the support and active for onsiteofinstruction and training our history, we’re thankful for thepartners, supportour andstaff, active participation our community Magnet schools attracting talented participation of our community partners, our students and their families. As always,our we’llstaff, face students Magnet schools attracting talented our challenges students and families. always, we’ll face students from across the Toledo area the of their our times withAs hope in our hearts from across the Toledo the challenges of our times with hope in our hearts and an unwavering commitment to area education. and an unwaveringclassroom commitment toexperience education.

Connecting with future Connecting classroom experience with future careers careers duorPSPT/moc.rettiwT duorPSPT/moc.rettiwT

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Toledo Public Schools’ Career Technology Programs continue to TO through partnerships and options for h students. egelloLET’S C ystrong lraE odecommunity loGET T sulP tiderC eg ellointern C ceT reeraC

GET TO eg)eCllEoLET’S T s,tu lP tiderC egelloC hceT reeraC TC( ylolroahEWORK! coSdhegloiH roffe dednuf-etats siht hguorhT stneduts SPT ,loohcs hgih ni elihW )CET( loohceS hgiH e cdsehdgniu -ettoabtsnsriahet shtgnueodruhtTs dna,trloff oh hfh wstennefdoustns oSiPllTim,loeohhtcrsoh f egrih apneireplinhaWc CET ,mulucirruc perp egWORK! lloc sti htiW noaslaloyoeSafety hhcTs .htsgoihc ohntotba ntirdaeercstengeedlu wenni efo htsrnoofietirsaopped rpelnliakcs lotcs lbsanlioaivllaim woen Schools offer dcareer Maintaining CgEnTi,nmrauToledo uichpreorfpPublic elu l rceirhrg stengeedlluotcs sstei Schools ihdtaiW er Airline os,elacnyeihreTp.txseocegoenlltoacteidhetroctengi elslo c TPS’ Pre-Med noitu elab,aelcianv& aicw olanmsinnoait,gisnoiptndueolclickas Toledo Public offer career a e e s Health re.hsrgeih ntendeuctstss1e2iddanear MgMnEinTrSareul O erraoalternatives cf ysrtu to collegereh,geichnneoiretpraxtes edgaelhloacgenhit toetgnieelishawe Science,gontuAcademy eicnsoliasm inaih,eccanm iceinrpa ,yggnoitlnounohcceat eriaralternatives ts1a2 enM icM idEeTmS nruoOyl.isrraem pc yserusutnceocf m rgdonrpa to collegerehgih no trats daeh a gnitteg elihw ,gninih siictearcpin,u yg looncheclet odeloT fo ytisrevinU ehT .gninrael ncaabm run,sonio mom enicidem sutlcaoefhmeahrtgdonrpa ,snnooisyselifroarm pireprasceh refvSiP nTUhethiw T .sgrneinntrraaepl .mohigh adreglorTpfosiyhtisro Matriculating to , s n o i s s e f o r p e r a c h ethgenhiytodjnea college right after acideMorP fo troppusta elahfour-year . m a r g o r p s i h t r o f S P T h t i w srentrap Matriculating to a four-year college right after high path for some young aschool cideM.oodrmay PelfooTtfnot rooyptpibe eihntUgbest jnea sursevthe enhiytodcareer school path for some young .odmay eThere loT fnot o yare tibe sremany vthe inUbest eother ht dcareer nacareer people. paths that lead to

people.

There are many career paths that lead to lucrative, satisfying jobs.other Toledo Public Schools has teamed lucrative, satisfying jobs. companies Toledo Public has teamed up with various regional andSchools organizations to up with various regional companies and organizations to create several job training programs in area high schools create several training area high schools in a variety of job career fields,programs includinginpublic safety, in a variety of career fields, including public safety, machining, carpentry, and more. machining, carpentry, and more.

Retired fire inspector Andre Tiggs Retired fire inspector Andre Tiggs

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Chief Danny Brown-Martinez Chief Danny Brown-Martinez

Brown-Martinez as being the main orchestrator of PS419, Brown-Martinez as being the main orchestrator of PS419, though Chief Brown-Martinez is quick to emphasize the though Chief Brown-Martinez is quick to emphasize the program is a group effort.

PS419 program is a groupwouldn’t effort. have been possible without the “This program PS419 “This program wouldn’t have been possible the What it is: A public safety educational program, founded collective input from (TPS Superintendent) Dr.without Romules What it is: A public safety educational program, founded oledo Public Schools’ newest magcollectiveToledo input Chief from (TPS Superintendent) Romules as a collaboration between Toledo Public Schools, Toledo Durant, of Police George Kral,Dr. Toledo net high school will welcome stuas a collaboration Toledo Public Schools, Toledo Police George Kral, Police, Toledo Firebetween and Rescue, City of Toledo, andToledo Owens Durant, Fire Chief BrianChief Byrd,of the Mayor’s office, andToledo everyone dents in August, 2022.

The Toledo Police, ToledoCollege.

Fire and Rescue, CityKapszukiewicz of Toledo, andfirst Owens Fire Chief Brian Byrd, the Mayor’s office, and everyone Community Mayor Wade at Owens Community College, ” said Brown-Martinez.

Pre-Med & Health Science Academy is a Community College.

Mayor Wade first at Owens Community College,” said Brown-Martinez. announced the program in his 2021Kapszukiewicz State of the City “PS419 is designed to introduce students to careersbyinToledo four-year high school sponsored announced the program in his 2021 State of the City “PS419 is designed to introduce students to careers in address. safety. It’s a technical just ProMedica like learning heating Publicprogram, Schools and that’s open to address. safety. a technical just like learning heating and airIt’s conditioning. ”program, all students in Northwest Ohio, regardless of and conditioning. ” is overseen Where: Bowsher High School Allair EMT certification the district or wherebya Owens studentCommunity currently atWhere: Bowsher High School All EMT certification is overseen Owens Community College’s Centertends. for Emergency Preparedness and the goalto Students willby have the opportunity College’s Center for Emergency Preparedness and the goal How it works: Retired fire inspector Andre Tiggs leads takepipeline advantage of TPS internships and in mentoring is toExpress create a career from to a career Toledo PS has partneredRetired with Delta Tech at the Eugene F. Krantz Toledo How it works: fire inspector Andre Tiggs leads is tovaluable create a career pipeline from TPS a career in30Toledo this program, which pairs students interested in public withworked ProMedica professionals at nearby Topublic safety.

“I’ve with kids fortomore than Ops, the largest airline maintenance Airport to provide students with this program, which pairs students interested in public public safety.

“I’ve worked with kids for more than 30 safety with a career and personal mentor working in the ledo Hospital, plus get the chance to work years repair and overhaul provider in hands-on learning experiences thatand willthis is a great way to show them there are career safety withtogoal aoffer career andonce personal working in the years and this out isinahealthcare great way to show there arego career positions upon graduation. field.

“The isstudents that these mentor kids finish thefor program, North America, an opporprepare them a career in aviation. opportunities there for them eventhem if they don’t toStufield.

“The goal is that once these kids finish the program, dents who are passionate to serve others opportunities out there for them even if they don’t go to tunity to gainbe valuable skills with on-the-job they’ll certified EMTs right out of Toledo high school, said began the Public ” Schools program college. ” they’ll be certified right out ofin high school, ” said and are considering a healthcare career are training.

Instructors fromEMTs the Aerospace college.from ” Tiggs, who credits Toledo fire battalion thechief fall ofDanny 2021 with great interest and Tiggs, Naturalwho Science Academy of Toledo encouraged to apply at tps.org. credits Toledo fire battalion chief Danny students and faculty alike

T

T

work with representatives from Delta Ops

An individualized path that can lead to a career AND a college degree.

An individualized path that can lead to a career AND a college degree.

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ni rehto yna ekilnu raey loohcs a no krabme ew sA • January/February 2022 • www.toledoparent.com evintci aredhnto a tyrnoapepkuislneuhrtareoyf llo uo fkhncashat neo r’ekwra,b yrm oteseihwrusA o ev,iff tcaatsdrnuaot,rsorepnptursapehyttirnouf m lum fko ncahrut oerf’eowno,yitraop tsiichitrru o ap ntlaraspAy.stieniluim mamf o ap e,cffaaftlsl’eruwo,s,syraew ricehrut odnfoa nstoniteadpuictsitrru o estcraafelh l’erw , s y a w l a s A . s e i l i m a f r i e h t d n a s t n e d u t s r u uo ni epoh htiw semit ruo fo segnellahc ehot straeh ruo ni epoh htiw semit ruo fo segnellahc eht 2

Toledo’s Award-Wining Parent Newspaper Volume 30  Issue 1  JAN/FEB 2021

ONLINE Identifying COVID vs. the Common Cold

by Mary Rose Kulczak Local health experts weigh in on tell-tale signs.

January & February

Giveaway Enter to win parent.com! o d le to t a y a d to

Toddler Activities in the 419

by Laurie Bertke Our roundup includes indoor fun for the winter ahead.

Check out our Top 10 Stories from 2021 at Toledoparent.com.

1. Family Favorites 2021 2. Kid Cover Contest 3. Signs, Symptoms and

Statistics of Sibling Sexual Abuse

4. In the Deep End: Your

guide to Toledo area pools

5. Kids Eat Free! Or Close To It 6. Figuring out if your child has colic or acid

reflux

7. Benefits of Learning Sign Language 8. Park and Playground Roundup 9. Food Fights: Mayberry Diner is a Toledo

Area Staple

10. Soak It Up: Area Splash Pads and

Swimming Pools

MOST READ ONLINE

1

Family Favorites 2021

2

Kid Cover Contest

3

Signs, Symptoms, and Statistics of Sibling Sexual Abuse

ON THE COVER

Forté music school students with school director Virgil Lupu

Expectant mothers often make a checklist a mile long to prepare for their new bundle of joy. What often gets left off the list, unfortunately, are tools for postpartum care! That’s why we are including this Hospital Bag Checklist giveaway for expectant mothers. These Lansinoh products include a postpartum wash bottle, hot and cold therapy packs, organic massage oil (gynaecologically tested for perineal massage), and a soothing herbal perineal spray. Take time to take care of yourself during your pregnancy and postpartum. You deserve it!

Congratulations to the winner of our November/ December giveaway, Marie Lecurgo of Toledo!

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2022 •

3

November 21

KIDS

Erin Holden

(toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com) WEARING UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATERS. STAFF WRITER

This month brings out the passion and creJeff McGinnis Adams Street Publishing Co. letter from the EDITOR ativity in your mysterious and sometimes (mcginnis@adamsstreetpublishing.com) is SMILE yourWHEN New Year’s SEEINGWhat MY NIECES THEY OPEN PRESENTS! quiet Scorpio child. Do you ever get that Resolution for 2022?

ASTROLOGY DIGITAL MEDIA feeling that inside that mysterious mind is Nate Light Kimmie Roseof a creative genius? This isbythe blessing (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Give yourself some grace ICEBALL FIGHTS. being the parent of a Scorpio. Get closer to them by watching them discover their DIGITALPublisher/Editor MARKETING in & Chief SOCIAL MEDIA Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) Margot Jacobs talents through experience.

Clean out closets. (margot@adamsstreetpublishing.com) WRAPPING PRESENTS. This month, Scorpios will illuminate their inCo-publisher/Chief Financial Officer Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) ner passions. Here’s a suggestion: pick up CONTRIBUTING Be grateful. WRITERS Roberts, Taylor Viers, Autumn 22-January an art canvas, coloredDecember pencils, stencils, an19 Erin Holden, AmeliaEditorial Vasquez, Jeff McGinnis, Kimmie Assignment Editor: Rose, Kiera Jacobs, Capricorns are truly some of the most apron, a table cover, paint, brushes and a Erin Holden (toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Julie Pompa, Mary Rose Kulczak, Lisa Alleman, adaptable children of the zodiac! This n I start to solidify plans for family visits. Who To complete the children’s book I’m writing Kimberly Feldkamp, Emily Remaklus, Mommy, What’s in the Basement? Laurie Bertke, sponge.

Put the tablecloth your table, adaptabilityover is a good quality, but most g at our house? Will we be making an 18-hour Staff Writer: Marsh Erin Schoen parents don’t even know about it until and set up a creative space for them to exJeff McGinnis (mcginnis@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Christmas? Last year threw all of those joyous they see the child figuring out ways To move on.

Advertising press themselves. Scorpio to into Contributing Writers: to make anchildren unexpectedlove situation of disconnect. Holiday traditions went by the Erin Holden, Taylor Viers, Autumn Vasquez, Kimmie a positive experience.

Your child SALES explore new things.

Tell them that you just was Rose, Jeff McGinnis, Mary Rose Kulczak, Molly Kilma, tay safe and make it through without engaging (sbell@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Suzanne born with the natural talent of turning Lila Waterfield,Bell Kimberly Feldcamp, Emily Remakulus wanted to have some fun drawing, paintLaurie Bertke.

FAVORITE FOOD FOR FAMILY MEALS stressful situations into something that PREPARING ALL THEand me, it was a lot of watching bad Christmas roming and that they can Leave set up will betoo. grounded anditwithout a lot of my family get-togethers.

Gabrielle HuffAdvertising (ghuff@adamsstreetpublishing.com) drama.

That will come(on in handy beSales Coordinator for a week and you will see them their DECORATING OUR CHRISTMAS TREE AND HAVING ming that connectivity with our family. In this cause there are a few situations that will CHRISTMAS DINNER WITH MY FAMILY own time) delving into their inner expresget in your child’s way this month. about maintaining family ties, like our Digital Be forewarned: The planet Mars isBonnie Hunter (bhunter@adamsstreetpublishing.com) sion. app that promotes togetherness through cook-

New Year’s Resolutions

In addition to our annual Holiday Happenings ages with hopeful stories, including the feature ilds community among mothers.

I have atough complicated relationship with New Year’s Resolutions, which is help you navigate decisions that moms probably true for most of us. Frankly, it can be a bit demoralizing to realize ut, includingyou the “breast is best” topic, with lohaven’t yet achieved your resolution from last year, as is often the case. oints of view, plus to get you through Here’sresources what I propose: in addition to writing down our resolutions for 2022, write down a few big, positive changes that you’ve made in recent um adjustment. years. Did you quit smoking? Did you do something outside of your r tools to help youzone, on like your parenting journey comfort experiencing culture shock during your travels? Did you simply let go of something in your life that was no longer serving you? If ow you’ll find inspiration in our November/

playing with your child’s emotions and, WATCHING MOVIES. while your grounded child seems like Janet Brehm Taylor (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) live my(life 100% unapologetic, authentic, Jenny To Leach jleach@adamsstreetpublishing.com) everything is fine, they will be chaland to the fullest! lenged with issues of trust and feelings DECORATING OUR CHRISTMAS TREE WITH THE Account Executives: ALWAYS MY FAVORITE! ALL GROWN of being left out. Focus on the energyKIDDOS WASGabbie Huff (ghuff@adamsstreetpublishing.com) I don’t know!

NOW, SO MISS IT! of “temporary” and take advantage of Bonnie Hunter (bhunter@ adamsstreetpublishing.com) being able to teach your strong-minded to be more appreciative.

Art/Production Capricorn child different ways to adapt Jenny Leach (jleach@adamsstreetpublishing.com) to change. This is surely a month that Strive to be healther, body & mind! your child will soak up a lot of lessons Jaclyn Lebert (jlebert@ adamsstreetpublishing.com) To laugh more. that can be really fun for you as a parJon Smith (jsmith@ adamsstreetpublishing.com) ent and advantageous for your family.

November 22 to December 21

Swim more.

you make a list of some of your accomplishments, it might just give you the PRODUCTION MANAGER Art/Production confidence you need to make 2022 your best year yet. Give yourself props Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Production Manager: for all the good you already do! In short, show yourself a little grace and SWEET POTATO SOUFFLE. Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) begin anew. That’s my plan.

To be a better teammate.

SENIOR DESIGNER Self-care is a facet of our lives that we can continually revisit and this Senior Designer: (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Leah Foley January/February issue includes our annual Health and Wellness Guide, Travel More.

BLACK FRIDAY SHOPPING . where local experts, from pediatricians to massage therapists, weigh in on Digital Media: Nate Light (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) how to maintain a balanced, healthy lifestyle. Our writers have also conTo play my guitar more often!

January Sagittarius child was born20-February with a curi-18 tributed stories that address mental health concerns facedYour by our children, Administration Digital Marketing and Social Media: This maywant be an exciting month for like social media use/addiction and the importance of safe spaces in our ous mind and will always to explore Margot Jacobs (margot@adamsstreetpublishing.com) ACCOUNTING Keep moving. both you and your child.

From my own schools for kids to receive the support they need for them to thrive.

Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) beyond Mom and Dad’s limits; however, experience as an Aquarian child with We are also proud to showcase local entrepreneurial moms who have Administration OUR FAMILY OUTING TO CUT DOWN A Accounting: imaginary from friends (that I didn’t they truly alsomade want direction Mom andthink done more than resolve to make their dreams a reality: they’ve FRESH CHRISTMAS TREE. (rarmstrong@toledocitypaper.com) Robin Armstrong weren’t so imaginary), my parents were Camp more, worry less. a difference in our community, all while maintaining the Dad covetedabout work-life what is, and what isn’t, good supportive and would play along.

If Distribution: DISTRIBUTION balance, which means something a little different to everyone. Every family Karena Adams (distribution@toledocitypaper.com) for them.

They areyour thechild future sci-question, Karena asks teachers, an imaginative Adams is different; every mother has a different approach that works for her. The To Be present(distribution@adamsstreetpublishing.com) concious and to smell the like “Could dig my way toThis China?” flowers more often! feature, “Moms Who Do it at Home,” is a series that will entists, hopefully inspire researchers, and Iexplorers. read articles together on the subject. Advertising/General Info you to make your own dreams come true this year! advertising and general information, month will offer you and child op- For As youryour Aquarius is athe humanitarian, Finally, we are gearing up for Family Favorites, where our readers give call 419-244-9859 or fax 419-244-9871. E-mail ads to adsin@ addressing questions adamsstreetpublishing.com. Deadline for advertising copy 2 portunity to grow together as theyabout will the beephemsome love to the local establishments they can’t get enough of. NominaAdvertising/General Info p.m. Friday before publication. Toledo Area Parent subscriperal nature of life is very important and For advertising and general information, call 419/244-9859 tions run through February 15. The top contenders advance to the ballot, attached at your hip, watching everything tions are available byE-mail mailads forto $30 per year at Adams Street or fax 419/244-9871. adsin@adamsstreetpubthis is a great time to give your child for voting from March 1 through April 15. Begin nominating your Family lishing.com. p.m. Friday Publishing, 1120 Deadline Adams for St.,advertising Toledo, copy Ohio2 43604.

One copy free before publication.

Toledo Area Parent subscriptions hands-on experiences, like sending you do and wanting to try it! per person per week; each. Street Persons taking Favorites at toledoparent.com today! are available by mail extra for $30 copies per year $1 at Adams copies Publishing, for any reason other than Ohio personal usecopy are subject to 1120 Adams St., Toledo, 43604. One money to help a certain cause. free per person per week; extra copies $1 each. Persons prosecution.

If your Aquarius is considering who taking copies for any reason other than personal use are Here’s to a new year with infinite possibilities!

Letterssubject to the editor must be limited to 300 to prosecution.

Letters to the editor mustwords, be limit- are subject they want to be when they grow up, ask ed toand 300 words, are include subject to the editing, and should XOXO, to editing, should writer’s fullinclude name and phone the writer’s full name and phone number. Any letter TO RECEIVE OUR WEEKLY them for a few ideas and match themnumber.

Any letter to the editor or publisher may be submitted to thesubmitted editor or publisher may be printed at the Also publishers of: discretion in issues subsequent its receipt. printedpublisher’s at the publisher’s discretion in to issues subsequent to with someone in that line of work who Erin Holden Entire contents © 2022-23 by Adams Street Publishing Co. E-NEWSLETTER TO ENTER receipt.

Entire contents © 2021 by Adams Street Publishing All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibwill mentor them for a day. The most its Assignment Editor Co. All ited rights reserved.

Reproduction in any form is prohibited without written permission of the publisher.

CONTESTS AND GET important thing you can say to your without written permission of the publisher.

Toledo Area Parent Aquarius child— or really any child— is Audited by THE “SCOOP” ON WHAT’S “We don’t use the word ‘can’t’ in this HAPPEINING AROUND house!” Allow and encourage them to do anything they set their minds to.

SIGN UP TOLEDO.

• January/February 2022 • www.toledoparent.com toledoparent.com 4

• November/December 2021 • www.toledoparent.com

#showandtell We asked our readers to show us their favorite family photos of holiday fun. If you have photos you’d like to share for our next issue, send them, along with a caption, to toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com.

Nolan Culbertson (age 2, Toledo) enjoying some tasty Christmas goodies!

Peyton (age 6) and Zoey Jo (age 2) from Toledo, playing reindeer games

m Sylvania

David (age 3) fro

Fun wi Elf on the Shelf th

Instagrams we Love

It’s tea time.

@fitmamas419 Get the scoop on workout classes and meet-up events for moving moms in the 419. You’ll find live-streamed workouts, opportunities for active playdates with other moms and even mommy’s night out activities.

Booster shots all around!

@thenotsobasicmama This mama shares hilarious reels about married life, being a busy mom and being open about anxiety-related struggles. With 3,885 followers, she has garnered a lot of fans. We’re also big fans of her relatable content.

@axiomlux Find community with this local mom and energy worker. Learn about kids’ classes in her studio, read inspirational quotes, and shop for products in this already-thriving new business! From reiki to sisterhood gatherings, this wellness brand is a must-follow.

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2022 •

5

what’s briefly happening...

Dial-a-Story

The Toledo Lucas County Public Library presents Dial-A-Story! These are free, pre-recorded stories for children, teens and adults. Listeners can enjoy the stories by phone at any time of day or night by calling 419-745-9700, and then choosing an age-group specific story from the Library’s vast collection. The stories are updated every two weeks and are a perfect listen while riding in the car, waiting in line or winding down for bedtime! —AV

Local author’s book addresses bullying

From Bully To Friend deals with an all-too-common problem that kids have to navigate. “Bullying is something that happens every day with kids, and I had to say something about it,” said Toledo first-time author Barbara Jones-Wilson.

From Bully to Friend follows two sixth graders, Omar and CJ, a pair who are constantly bullied by one of their classmates, Kevin. But instead of seeking revenge on Kevin, Omar and CJ attempt to understand him.They come to find that Kevin gets bullied by his own parents, which ultimately makes him become a bully himself.

This new understanding leads to the formation of a new friendship! You can find the book on Amazon. —AV

Mini Mondays at H.O.O.V.E.S. For kids who love both crafts and horses, H.O.O.V.E.S. offers an event that fits the bill!

Each Mini Monday class has a different craft project for kids to work on with an instructor’s guidance, and afterwards they get to go on a tour of the farm (weather permitting), which has many animals, including miniature horses. Even if the weather doesn’t cooperate, the instructor will make sure that your kiddos get to meet some furry friends! $10 per ticket for up to 20 kids. 5-6pm. Monday, January 10 and Monday, February 21. H.O.O.V.E.S. 4055 Wilkins Rd., Swanton. Tickets can be purchased at facebook.com/hoovesforvets. Contact Mini Mondays instructor Myah McCroskey at myah@hooves.us for more details. —EH

TSA aims for expansion this spring

The Toledo School for the Arts (TSA) is making a final push to raise a total goal $2 million for their “Next Big Thing”— expansions to their current building. Aimed at adding a new annex along Adams St. and expanded stairwell to the building, the new additions will significantly increase the building’s capacity, allowing an additional 140 students to enroll, a 20 percent increase over current numbers. With over 200 students left on a waitlist every year, unable to be enrolled due to limited space, the school hopes to begin construction on the expansion this spring. For more information or to donate, visit ts4arts.org/nbt. —JM

6

Maumee Valley Country Day is the B.E.S.T.

Bowling Green State University hosted the ninth annual Falcon B.E.S.T. Robotics Competition on November 6, a one of its kind event in Ohio which challenges high school student-led teams to design a remote-controlled robot. The title of Falcon B.E.S.T. (Boosting Engineering, Science, and Technology) is bestowed on the winning teams, with more than 150 students from Northwest Ohio high schools participating in the competition. “They design and build a robot as a team. This year’s theme was ‘DEMO DAZE,’ which means the teams had to design and build a construction-site, demolition robot,” Falcon B.E.S.T. hub director Resmi KrishnankuttyRema said. Maumee Valley Country Day School was the Falcon B.E.S.T. of 2021. The school also garnered B.E.S.T. Website, B.E.S.T. Video, and a first place-finish for B.E.S.T. T-Shirt! —AV

• January/February 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

My New Year’s Resolutions for Parenting Teens

Jera’s Heavenly Sweet

If you’re looking for a sweet treat in Toledo, Jera’s Heavenly Sweet is, well, divine. Since their grand opening last September, they’ve been serving up delicious cookies, pies, brownies, cupcakes, breakfast pastries, dinner rolls, cakes, breads and cheesecakes. Now located at 3059 W. Bancroft St., just east of Secor Rd., Jera’s Heavenly Sweet makes exceptional custom baked goods. Visit facebook.com/jerasheavenlysweet and jheavenlysweet.com to read about their story, menu and specials! —TV

5 tips for helping teenagers thrive in 2022

By Cheryl Maguire

Insomnia Cookies now in Toledo!

Who doesn’t love a warm, fresh baked cookie (even at midnight)? Insomnia Cookies’ new Toledo location is what we night owls have been jonesing for. Open until 1am SundayWednesday and 3am Thursday-Saturday, Insomnia Cookies is located at 1440 Secor Rd. next to The University of Toledo’s Barnes & Noble. To view their menu or to order online, visit insomniacookies.com. —TV

Be Well at Wixey

The Wixey Center for Wellness, a meditation studio in Maumee, founded and directed by Rachel Wixey, provides secular teachings & meditation classes designed to serve all races, cultures, gender identities, religions, non-religions and communities of people. New clients can book a free thirty-minute consultation at bookme.name/ rachelwixey, to work one-on-one with Rachel to establish mindfulness meditation practices. Private bookings for the Personal Wellness Plan sessions are also available and address specific goals related to overall health. The Wixey Center For Wellness is located at 6546 Weatherfield Ct, Building E5 Maumee, 419-725-9499. —AV

Here’s the story

Storied is a Toledo-based video production company recently founded

by Joni Johnson. Capturing anecdotes and interviews of families and loved ones, Storied provides a digital heirloom through autobiographical documentaries of elders, children and families. The recorded and professionally edited videos can memorialize an elder with a captivating story to tell, a graduating high school senior reflecting on the educational experience or capture the essence of the whole family on video! Learn about pricing and details at tellyourstoried. com. After scheduling an interview, an extensive list of sample questions will be provided as food for thought. Tellyourstoried@gmail.com or 419-6019163. —AV

I’m not a big fan of New Year’s Resolutions, but I thought I would embrace change this year. As I reflect back on last year my first thought is, “I survived being the mom of twin teens!” Their fourteenth birthday is in February, so this time of year also marks my accomplishment, and yes, I view that as an accomplishment.

If I’m honest with myself, I can also admit there is still room for improvement. Since I know that I can only control my behavior, I plan to focus on what I can do differently as a parent. So here’s my list, in no particular order (even though I numbered it...I just like numbered lists).

1

I will encourage my twin teens to be more independent. During their morning routine, I will remain silent without saying, “Hurry up or you will miss the bus!” I will also give them a list of things they are responsible for, such as putting away their laundry, cleaning the dishes and packing their lunches.

2

I will allow them to fail.

This is a tough one for me, as I often feel this may somehow be a reflection on me as a parent. I also struggle with being a perfectionist, but I realize sometimes “failing” is the only way you learn and grow as a person. So when they ask me to bring to school their forgotten homework or other items my answer will be a hard “no.”

3

I will continue to attempt to communicate with them. This year, whenever I tried to ask my teens questions, I heard a lot of one-word, generic responses.

When I ask, “How was school today?” often their response is a one word “good” without any other details. After hearing “good” or “nothing” a hundred times, I was tempted to give up trying. But I have been told by more than one person that I’m tenacious, so I tried other methods. I found by asking unusual questions or offering up information about myself, I was often able to engage in what some might consider a conversation. So I’m going to keep trying because when it works, it’s worth the effort.

4

I’m going to nag less and observe more. I never enjoy nagging, and it rarely yields the results I want. After reading articles and interviewing experts, I learned that making observational comments or questions is much more effective.

My favorite one— which even elicits the occasional chuckle— is, “Are you working hard or hardly working?”

5

I’m going to let them know when they are doing a good job. It’s easy to notice all the things a teen is doing wrong, such as leaving their towel on the floor, staying up too late at night or eating junk food. It’s much harder to point out what they are doing right, such as how they did their homework, helped their sibling, or cleaned their room. I plan to notice at least once a day what they are doing right and let them know how proud I am of them. Because they are doing a lot of things right that make me so proud.

One of the reasons I don’t like New Year’s Resolutions is because— often by March— people are back to their old ways and their New Year’s Resolutions are quickly forgotten.

That’s why I’m writing it down, so I can reflect on this list and remind myself that me pursuing these goals will help us have a better relationship, hopefully helping my teens grow up to be successful adults. It’s certainly worth trying something new to achieve that.

Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter.

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2022 •

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BGSU Grad Creates MagnaHalter for Riders With Disabilities Sara Yarger’s invention promotes independence

By Molly Klima

Sara Yarger can’t remember exactly when she developed a passion for working with individuals with special needs, a thread woven throughout her life. Looking back, Sara recalls being designated to accompany another young girl to church on Sundays and befriending another child at daycare with special needs. Now a college graduate with a degree in Special Education from Bowling Green State University, Sara worked her way from Paraprofessional to Intervention Specialist at Ohio Virtual Academy.

Aside from developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and teaching, Sarah has spent the past six years developing a horse halter that enhances accessibility for participation in equine recreation and hippotherapy.

MagnaHalter has a magnet and bracket instead of a snap or buckle that allows

individuals with fine motor limitations to remove and place the halter independently. The magnet and bracket also make it easier to use the halter in cold temperatures or while wearing gloves.

Equine therapy— a treatment that uses the bond between people and horses to promote healing— offers benefits such as decreased anxiety, improved self-esteem and communication. Hippotherapy, which focuses specifically on physical healing, can be used for speech, as well as occupational and physical therapy by individuals who have a variety of conditions such as learning disabilities, Cerebral Palsy or Traumatic Brain Injury.

Harley, with his owner Sara Yarger, poses with a MagnaHalter.

Going back to her roots At the age of 12, Sara began to show horses with her 4-H club. After completing all available horse programs

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Families are welcome.

Parking and admission are free.

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The magnet that slides into the bracket relieves the challenges of needing hand strength or coordination to snap or fasten buckles. through 4-H, she showed horses and also became an advisor, teaching others about riding and horse care. “My experience in 4-H truly laid the foundation for who I am today. It taught me the leadership skills I needed.” Sara says.

During college, Sara rode for the BGSU Western Equestrian Team. The team participated in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association competitions throughout the region. Sara also volunteered at Serenity Farm Equestrian Center in Luckey prior to their October 2021 closing. It was during her time in 4-H and volunteering that Sara noticed how many people were struggling with limitations of fine motor skills, detracting from their ability to halter horses on their own.

Hatching new ideas The journey for inventing and producing the MagnaHalter began in an assistive technology class at BGSU where

• January/February 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

students had to design and develop a product. After completing the class, Sara was chosen to be one of eight students to present her idea at The Hatch.

“The Hatch is a Shark Tank-style forum where BGSU students and alumni have two minutes to present their products to a room of alumni who are there to serve as investors,” she explains.

After having several investors make offers, one man, Ed Reiter, stood up and offered to fully invest in her product with no equity required in return. The product went through three rounds of testing by Serenity Farms and other equine centers located through PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) International, which allowed the product to be tested in 20 states. Sara also collaborated with Healing Strides Therapeutic Center in Virginia and the US Equestrian Federation of Excellence, working with people who are training for the paralympics.

One of MagnaHalter’s biggest supporters is Heather Smith, Para Reining gold medalist.

With all manufacturing done in the USA, MagnaHalter is currently sold online and in two brick-and-mortar stores, one in South Carolina and the other in Texas. Halters have been donated to equestrian centers and competitors. Sara and her husband,Trey, also sell the halter at various events and shows. “Trey comes to every show with me and carries a lot of heavy things and he helps me with assembling. I literally could not do this without his support.”

Halters can be purchased through MagnaHalter.com.

ZOOTeens Follow Their Animal Instincts The Toledo Zoo program pairs science and service

By Mary Rose Kulczak

ZOOTeens provide information to guests at the zoo exhibits throughout the year.

K

ZOOTeen volunteers help clean up waterways with Partners for Clean Streams.

now a teen who likes to walk on the wild side? They may be the perfect candidate for the ZOOTeen Program at the Toledo Zoo. “The ZOOTeen Program, launched in 1999, provides an opportunity for teens to connect with the Zoo, animals, nature and the community at large,” explains Bill Davis, Director of Volunteers. “Since its inception, the program has grown, not only in the number of participants, but in the range and depth of the opportunities that are available. Through the ZOOTeen Program, teens meet new friends, learn about the animals and the zoo and develop a range of personal skills, including interpersonal communication, time management, problemsolving and team-building.”

A rewarding experience For Alyssabeth LaPlante, 17, the zoo was the perfect environment for growing, learning, and connecting with others. She became a ZOOTeen in June 2018. “I joined because my sister was already a part of the program, and I saw all the amazing opportunities she was a part of,” LaPlante said. “I also have loved animals my whole life and plan on going into biology and animal sciences after high school, so I wanted more experience with different available jobs.”

LaPlante, a senior at Clay High School, has served as the ZOOTeen enrichment chair as well as the organization’s vice president. Some of her favorite community activities include working with the Being Project and the Humane Society. “Being Project was created by ZOOTeens. We go downtown to a parking lot by the Toledo library and we play with kids, talk to adults and help the Fellowship Matters team pass out food and essentials to the unhoused population of Toledo,” says LaPlante,

Through the ZOOTeen Program, teens meet new friends, learn about the animals and the zoo and develop a range of personal skills... adding that “the best feeling is when you turn the corner into the parking lot and the kids recognize our yellow shirts and run over to give hugs.”

At the Humane Society, ZOOTeens will often help walk dogs, clean the cat and kitten rooms, and socialize the animals. ZOOTeens also offers enrichment for the animals in the zoo exhibits.

“Enrichment is a huge part of running a zoo,” she said. “Enrichment is anything that makes the animals work their minds. Without it, the animals would be bored and pacing. As an enrichment team member, I use papier mache and cardboard to make nontoxic hollow cutouts, and I decorate with non-toxic paint. I made enrichment items for every animal in the zoo besides the primates and animals with water enclosures.” The hard work pays off when volunteers see the animals benefit. “The most rewarding part was to see how the animals interact with the enrichment, such as elephants who eat [the items] whole, while the bears just rip them open,” LaPlante said.

As part of Keeper Help, teens are given opportunities to go into exhibits to clean and renovate enclosures (when animals are not in those locations). They also feed animals under supervision, as there is a no touch policy while working in exhibits.

ZOOTeen Volunteers working with TOLEDO Grows.

Developing future leaders A love of animals prompted Kennedy Koontz, 17, to join the ZOOTeens program. Through a unique program, Koontz, a senior at Bedford High School, learned that she also loved working with teens with disabilities.

“I’ve been in the program since 2017,” she says. “I heard about the program through friends and decided to join because I wanted to learn more about animals, but quickly discovered my passion for leadership.”

Koontz joined the ADaPT program in 2018, which allows teens with disabilities to participate by providing personalized accommodations to meet their needs. “This has been one of my favorite experiences, as I have learned a lot about people. It has been really cool to see teens reach a level of independence that they may never have thought they could,” Koontz added.

Learn more at upcoming information sessions Interested teens can attend informational sessions in January and February with a parent or guardian, where they will meet staff and current members while learning about various opportunities. Registration is now available on the Zoo’s website.

“ZOOTeens have the opportunity to support a range of activities at the Zoo, including staffing educational carts and stations, assisting summer camps and helping with special events. In addition, ZOOTeens can choose to support different projects and organizations throughout the community,” Davis says. Projects include Partners for Clean Streams, Toledo Metroparks, Toledo GROWS and the Seagate Food Bank, among others.

“Ultimately, what ZOOTeens take away from this program will depend on their level of participation,” Davis said. “Much like life, the more they put into it, the more they will receive from it.”

To learn how to get your teen involved in the program, call 419-385-5721, ext. 2045, or email volunteer@toledozoo.org. Visit toledozoo.org for more information.

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2022 •

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who do it from home Entrepreneurial parents teach a lesson in work-life balance

By Emily Remaklus

Being a mom can be tough, and being a mom who also owns her own business is even tougher. We found eight awesome entrepreneurial moms who somehow manage to do it all. Raising a family while also managing their own Toledo area businesses, these women share tips and tricks for balancing family life and work, while finding success and happiness in both pursuits. Find the unabridged version of this story at toledoparent.com.

Dr. Jena Hinds Hinds Educational Learning & Preparedness 567-343-6472 Tell us about your business. Hinds Educational Learning & Preparedness— the HELP Center— is an alternative educational center that helps kids, teens and adults reduce stress and anxiety, creating a healthier lifestyle, a better educational experience and improved academic performance and test scores.

The Center provides tutoring with certified teachers in reading, writing and math. Additionally, consultant services are available to help parents and schools with special education services. The Center also hosts author visits.

What was the motivation? Dr. Hinds worked in the education field for 21 years as an intervention specialist. Her job was to help students with special needs who had a difficult time learning. With testing a big focus in schools, Hinds worked to help her students reduce anxiety and stress which led to better academic and testing experiences. In 2020 she earned her Ph.D., while studying how to reduce test anxiety and to increase academic performance outcomes. Additionally, Dr. Hinds’ son struggles with academics due to ADD. Along with starting the Center, she started writing for children, publishing two books, This is ME and Little Brown Puppy with Big Paws, which focus on diversity and inclusion.

Tips for balancing work and parenting: “The trick as a parent, professor and owner of a Center is to structure my days and leave time for family activities and self-care.”

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Sherelle Gaston Greatest in the Kingdom instagram.com/thegreatestinthekingdom

What is your favorite Toledo restaurant?

As a family, we love going to The Beirut and our favorite pizza place, Pizza Cat. Your life in 5 words or less?

Living a prosperous life.

Favorite place to go as a family?

We love going to the Lights at the Zoo and to Mud Hens games.

Other advice from Dr. Hinds: “My biggest advice for parents is to advocate for their child. If you do not know how, please seek assistance from consultants, like the HELP Center, to help you better understand your child and their needs while also enhancing communication with their teachers and school.” More information about the Center can be found on Facebook at Hinds Educational Learning & Preparedness and at myhelpcenter.org.

What is your favorite Toledo restaurant?

The Onyx (at the Oliver House) is my favorite coffee house. Bombay Kitchen is my favorite restaurant!

I’m friends with the owner Rita, and she’s amazing.

What is Greatest in the Kingdom? A publishing company that Sherelle started in 2019 when she Your life in 5 words or less?

Family, faith, fitness, football and discovered that she couldn’t find food! any books that represented characters that looked like her children, Favorite place to go as a so she decided to create them herfamily? self. Additionally, she explains that Florida. one of her children struggles with reading, and she couldn’t find content to interest him. In 2019, she began working for a children’s ministry and she used the lessons from her ministry to create The Greatest of the Kingdom book series. The first book, Jesus is my Best Friend, was published in May 2020.

Her inspiration: Sherelle wanted to create books that were more diverse. “Statistically, there are more animals in children’s books than there are children of color, and I wanted to change that narrative one book at a time,” explains Sherelle. “29 percent of illustrations are animals in children’s books, 8 percent are African Americans, 5 percent are Latino, and the rest of the ethnicities are smaller, single-digit numbers according to a 2018 statistical study. If we want more children to read, they need to see themselves represented in books. All of my books represent not only children of color, but also children with special needs.”

Her tips for work-life balance: Sherelle is glued to her phone and uses it for everything. Not only is it needed for downloading books, but also to download illustrations.

“I know it is such a cliché to say that self-care is the best care, but finding time to go for that walk or just have a cup of Joe at some of my favorite coffee houses— like the Onyx downtown— is one of my favorite pastimes. I spend hours there just typing out the many books that I have on my mind.” Currently, Sherelle is working on a cookbook to inspire parents and kids to cook together.

• January/February 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

Elizabeth Richardson Fangboner Farms 1179 S. Crissey Rd., Holland 567-703-6191 fangbonerfarms.com What is Fangboner Farms? Fangboner Farms is a sustainable destination farm located in Holland. One of the main goals of the Farm is to repurpose materials and to promote living a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, the Farm offers tours and an event venue.

How Elizabeth took on the business: Fangboner Farms began with growing herbs to create home-cooked dishes with spiced blends, meat rubs and other recipes that used the bounty of the farm’s harvest. The business has evolved and now includes hosting weddings, parties, reunions and other gatherings. Additionally, the house on site is rented out as an Airbnb for short or long-term stays. The farm also has a market shop— open by appointment— where visitors can purchase spices, teas, jams, candles, coffee and more.

What is your favorite Toledo restaurant?

J’mae’s.

Your life in 5 words or less?

A soul happily free.

Favorite place to go as a family?

Hocking Hills.

Her tricks for balancing family life and career: “I’m a full-circle entrepreneur,” says Elizabeth. “I eat, sleep, and breathe farm life, and I am passionate about sustainability, home-cooking, family life and going on adventures. I also love being a public figure/influencer for women who look like me and who strive to achieve similar goals with work and parenting. For me, it’s all about organizing my time and limiting distractions.

Time management and setting boundaries are the tricks that have worked for me.”

Suggestions for you to check out: Subscribe to the newsletter for weekly farm updates, promos and a local blog on area eats that are Richardson family approved. Find it at fangbonerfarms.com.

Fangboner Farms’ CEO Elizabeth Richardson with her husband, Adam Borchardt, and her daughter Izabella.

Lindsey Mahoney Building Bluebird and real estate agent buildingbluebird.com What is Building Bluebird? Lindsey’s home decor blog which includes do-ityourself tips to create a functional and happy home. The blog features a variety of information including complete room makeovers, affordable DIY projects and tips about investing in real estate.

What is your favorite Toledo restaurant?

Kengo.

Your life in 5 words or less?

Living life to the fullest.

Favorite place to go as a family?

We love visiting the Metroparks around Toledo.

Our favorite at the moment is Wildwood.

photo credit Mary Wyar

What is the motivation? Building Bluebird started five years ago when Lindsey and her family were still living in Denver.

On the weekends, she and her husband Chris would work on home projects during spare time. Lindsey explains, “After living through and managing three home renovations, I realized that my heart was completely in real estate and home renovation.” She and her family decided to move back to their hometown, Toledo, and she turned her passion of “all-things-home” into a career. She has been a licensed real estate agent with Danberry Realtors for the last three years and continues to share tips and tricks on Building Bluebird.

Lindsey’s tips and tricks for work-life balance: “One thing I always try to remember when I feel overwhelmed while attempting to balance work, life and parenting is that it takes a village! No one can do it all, and I am grateful that, along with having an extremely supportive spouse, I also have wonderful family members and friends who are willing to help out when I call. I also like to include the kids when tackling home projects and I even enjoy taking them to the office every once and a while. Understanding real estate as well as tackling home projects are valuable life skills that we try to teach our kids.”

Learn more about Lindsey’s work: Check out Building Bluebird at buildingbluebird.com, and visit Lindsey’s real estate site at lindseymahoney.danberry.com.

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2022 •

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Becky Ohm The Flying Joe 419-931-0273 2130 Preston Pkwy., Perrysburg theflyingjoe.com Tell us about The Flying Joe. Located in Perrysburg, The Flying Joe is a coffee shop operated and run by veterans which serves made-from-scratch breakfast sandwiches, housemade pastries, organic teas and roasted coffee. They also have housemade cocktails, as well as beer and wine. Depending on the season, you may find a new special food item, coffee or cocktail.

What was your motivation? Becky’s husband was stationed in Oklahoma as an active duty member of the Air Force. She was stationed in Toledo, so they would fly back and forth to see one another. When she’d visit Oklahoma, they frequented a local coffee shop and fell in love with the atmosphere and how it brought the community together. Five years later, they settled down in Toledo and planned to create a coffee shop of their own to help them get to know the community.

Becky’s tricks for a work-life balance: “I am still learning how to do this everyday! I have tricks as I am sure everyone does. The hard part is sticking to them. It’s definitely not easy and I have to remind myself on occasion why I do what I do. Boundaries are very important. Yes, we take our work home with us and need to address some issues after business hours, but you can control certain aspects of that.”

She explains that setting aside a specific time for responding to texts, emails and phone calls helps to establish boundaries.

Maareya Hejazi Le Petit Macaron 1002 Bedford Woods Dr. 303-668-1033 lepetitmacaron.business.site What is Le Petit Macaron? A licensed home bakery in Toledo specializing in French macarons. Maareya Hejazi explains that the business was launched from her first apartment with her husband, and now they operate out of their family home. Le Petit Macaron features French macarons, cupcakes, cakes, dessert cups and more. More information can be found on Facebook and Instagram @lepetitmacarontoledo.

What was your motivation? Maareya has always loved baking. As a kid, she had an Easy-Bake oven and grew up baking quite a variety of items, which ranged from Middle Eastern sweets to French macarons. She explains, “I became interested in selling (the baked goods) after I perfected my technique with some of the hardest sweets to make. Family and friends encouraged me, and I took the plunge in 2018, at first only selling to family, friends and acquaintances, operating under Ohio’s Cottage Food Laws. Years later, I now have a licensed home bakery, a registered business and have recently begun attending small markets and events as a vendor! I love the challenge!”

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Becky Ohm and her husband met while they were both serving in the U.S. Air Force. Now they have three children and own the every-popular Flying Joe coffee shop!

Other pointers from Becky: Although it isn’t easy wearing so many hats and owning a business, Becky says, “We are passionate about the work we do.

I love to serve people and create a fun and comfortable environment for our guests. When you see someone’s reaction after they take a sip or a bite of something that you created, it’s pretty amazing! When I hear how a guest had a wonderful experience at The Flying Joe, it makes me very proud. When my customers know each other because they met at The Joe, that is the meaning of community.”

What is your favorite Toledo restaurant?

That is a tough one! I will have to pick a few.

We loved our experience at Souk in Downtown Toledo. The food and drinks were amazing and the service was outstanding. Benchmark is another outstanding restaurant. Right next to Benchmark is Basil. Both have great service and food. I love Mexican food and would eat it every day if my kids would let me. Cocina De Carlos or Tekela are my restaurants of choice. I better stop before I run out of room!

Your life in 5 words or less? Every day is an adventure.

Favorite place to go as a family? Favorite Spot in Toledo: The Toledo Zoo. Disney World is our favorite place outside of Toledo. We also love Cedar Point!

Her tricks for balancing work, life and parenting: Maareya explains that balancing her home life and work life hasn’t always been difficult.

When she first started baking during the summer of 2018, she would bake while her husband was at work. When she decided to begin work on her Master of Public Health degree at The University of Toledo, however, baking was only possible on holiday breaks.

In August 2019, Maareya became pregnant and soon after that came the shutdown due to COVID, which meant less baking. Now that things have opened back up, and with the birth of her son, she’s had to find time to bake while her son naps, eats lunch or plays in the kitchen.

After he goes to bed for the evening, she usually does more baking, decorating and admin work.

Her motto: “I enjoy collaborating with other local bakers and makers. I strongly believe that we aren’t competition — we are here to lift and encourage each other.”

• January/February 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

Maareya Hejazi with her husband and little boy, all repping Le Petit Macaron, a company she founded in 2018 out of her family’s apartment.

What is your favorite Toledo restaurant?

Tougen Japanese Restaurant is my absolute favorite hidden gem.

Your life in 5 words or less? Bake, eat, sleep, repeat.

Favorite place to go as a family? Any of the Metroparks!

Krystal Rosser A Clean Experience, LLC 419-901-7529 acleanexperiencellc.com Tell us more about your business. A Clean Experience, LLC is a Black-owned cleaning business located in Toledo, specializing in commercial and residential cleaning services.

What is your favorite Toledo What was the restaurant? inspiration Right now it’s LongHorn behind A Clean for their Porterhouse Experience? As a steak! single mom, Krystal Your life in 5 relied solely on daycare words or less? to look after her son Blessed and highly while she worked. After favored. her son was diagnosed Favorite place to with ADHD, daycare go as a family? options became limited.

Going on adventures to The places where he explore new things. was accepted were not always equipped to help a child with ADHD; he would often be removed, which resulted in her losing her job. “It got to the point where it felt normal to keep changing jobs, but I knew I didn’t deserve this type of life,” explains Krystal. “I took the necessary steps to better myself. I had to find myself!

I knew I wanted independence and freedom (and I wanted to stop) relying on daycare for support. I had to sacrifice a lot to get to this point in life. I found myself through God!” Krystal’s tricks for balancing work life and parenting: Being present in the moment and not dwelling on what she might miss out on is how Krystal finds balance. Enjoying every moment she can with her son is the most important thing.

Her motto: “Treat people with kindness because you never know what someone is going through.”

Taylor Holloway Callisto Terra Candles callistoterra.com What is Callisto Terra? Callisto Terra is a locally owned, homemade candle shop. The candles, which provide peace and relaxation for buyers, are offered in varied scents — to create a moment of nostalgia or a new scent to establish new memories. Callisto Terra Candles are created to provide pockets of peace during the busy-ness of everyday life.

What was your motivation? Curiosity pushed Taylor into candle making. She simply wanted to try to make a candle on her own and, then, she continued to create and learn.

Her tricks for balancing work life and parenting: Taylor is a single mom to four kids (9, 7, 5 and 2 years old) and she has raised them to be very independent. They work as a team alongside her to keep the house clean, cook dinner, make candles and enjoy one another.

Taylor gives her kids the opportunity and responsibility to make age-appropriate decisions, and then discusses those decisions with them. By releasing the reins and letting her kids grow a bit on their own, that frees them to accomplish things beyond traditional age-related expectations. The family practices open communication, which

What is your favorite Toledo restaurant?

Definitely Sidon Lebanese Grille & Bakery. Easily the best food I’ve had in the entire city. My kids & I LOVE getting any meal from there!

Your life in 5 words or less? I’ll wear black again today.

Favorite place to go as a family? ANY Metropark in the area; we have so many. Those walking trails and playgrounds are good for the soul. gives Taylor’s kids the chance to form and express their opinions on most things, but they also have clear boundaries and respect one another. Taylor explains, “Our family dynamics are unique, as are each of us individually. We work together and apart, but we keep moving in the same direction. I’m so proud of them!”

“Because I am not raising my kids in a typical way, I think it’s important that I’ve given them a safe place to speak with an unrelated adult outside of our home,” adds Taylor. “Therapy is very important to me as an entrepreneur. I saw a need I couldn’t fill for my kids and connected them with Marlene, who specializes in Play Therapy. It has changed the trajectory of our lives. She has given us the tools to grow, thrive and communicate with each other. Owning a business is no easy feat. There are great highs, but those lows will get you if you’re not careful. Take good care of yourself as a mamma and business owner! Those kids only get to go through this life with you once.”

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2022 •

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SPONSORED CONTENT

health & wellness Local experts weigh in on self-care in the new year

By Emily Remaklus

Ringing in the New Year provides a chance to ring in some new healthy habits. We asked local health experts what helpful tips they have to start the year off right.

Ashley Hirzel Open Arms Wellness Center & Yoga Loft 2300 Navarre Ave., #204, Oregon 419-720-8604 openarmsmassagestudio.com

Dr. Nick Goin CACCP

Innate Health Chiropractic

tive issues, poor sleep, anxiety, ADHD, ear infections, prenatal care, baby positioning and much more!

26580 N. Dixie Hwy., #101, Perrysburg 419-872-2255 getinnatehealth.com Tell us a little about your practice and what sets it apart?

The focus of our office is prenatal and pediatric care, which makes up over 60 percent of our practice. Our doctors have extensive training through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) which allows them to specialize in these areas, which includes certification for the Webster Technique for prenatal moms.

What’s something you wish people knew about their health and chiropractic care?

You don’t have to have neck or back pain to see a chiropractor. A large portion of our practice comes for healing from other health challenges like colic, reflux, diges14

What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their health?

The biggest mistake is when health is not made a priority. Most people wait until they have a health challenge before they pay attention to their body, which can be too late. Preventative care and proactive care is always the best approach!

What health-related resolution would you suggest people consider for 2022? Get your spine and nervous system checked. Nervous system health is vital to reaching your health goals because your brain and nervous system control and regulate all functions of your body!

Tell us a little about your business, and what sets it apart from other wellness centers?

Open Arms is simply a unique and wonderful all-in-one wellness center.

Offering massage therapy, prenatal and postpartum specialties/mother roasting and belly binding, aesthetics and waxing, yoga, infrared sauna, halotherapy, LED therapy, education seminars and a boutique full of beautiful gifts. We set ourselves apart by offering a wide variety of self-care, alternative therapies and educational CEU programs for professionals in the massage industry.

Our Massage Therapists are specifically trained in a wide variety of modalities, including lymphatic drainage with specialties in lymphedema, cancer and more. Other specialties include cranial sacral release, prenatal, postpartum, delivery support, reflexology, cold/ hot stone, couples massage, fertility, menopause, ashiatsu, cupping, medical massage, oncology and energy healing, such as reiki and crystal healing.

Our philosophy is that visitors should receive affordable massage therapy and alternative care. It is our goal that each time you come through the doors, you’re not treated like just another client. We are personable and work with you to improve your overall well-being, mind, body and soul. We want to help you overcome the obstacles in your everyday life, whether it be fibromyalgia, back pain, arthritis, chronic pain or migraine. We customize each session to address these issues.

What’s something you wish people knew about their health in regard to your specialty?

Our health, body, mind and soul are so important. It’s what keeps us enjoying our lives, our children and our grandchildren and what keeps us moving and traveling to the places we want to go.

Over the last two years, we have faced something no one in history should have to endure: a pandemic. The result has been fear, panic and stress, all of which can add to overeating or even stress-induced health issues.

• January/February 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

Massage therapy is among the top stress reducers in the world today!

COVID hit us hard. We forgot what it was like to hug and experience a simple handshake. Touch is essential to our human body. It is the first sense we develop and the first sense we engage in when we are born. We crave it from the very beginning. When you experience touch, your brain engages your pain relieving receptors and engages those feel good senses, reducing stress, fear and panic. Touch therapy does not have to be a massage, it can be a completed clothed session such as reiki (energy healing). Massage and touch alone are beneficial for all mankind. The research is there: it improves the immune system, decreases blood pressure, reduces pain, improves range of motion and helps reduce sleeplessness, among so many other benefits. If you’ve never received a massage before, I think it’s time you tried one!

What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their health. The biggest mistake is not trying to slow down.

Everyone tells me they do not have the time, or choose not to have the time, to take care of themselves. The time is there! You just need to make room for it, or before you know it you’re overworked, burnt out and unhappy. Make time for self-care, whether that involves a walk, a class or a massage. Make time for you!

What health-related resolution would you suggest people consider for 2022? Consider taking the time to develop a passion for something that makes you happy. Not your significant other, not your children, but you!

Find something that you LOVE that gives you the chills when you talk about it! Those touch receptors will thank you!

SPONSORED CONTENT

Dr. Jon Frankel DDS

Jon Frankel Dentistry 5012 Talmadge Rd., #100 419-474-9611 jonfrankeldentistry.com

Tell us a little about your practice, and what sets it apart?

Frankel Dentistry is the first 100 percent employee-owned dental practice in the United States. I am sharing the legacy my father started in 1946. Seventy-five years later, Frankel Dentistry continues to change the lives of patients and the owners.

What’s something you wish people knew about their health in regard to your specialty? Regularly scheduled dental visits are the key to not only a beautiful, healthy smile, but enhanced overall health. Dentistry has changed dramatically over the years. Most of our patients tell us they look forward to their visits.

What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their health? Avoiding preventative measures and symptoms of disease.

Waiting too long leads to serious issues. Take care of small issues before they become big problems.

What health-related resolution would you suggest people consider for 2022? Schedule a dental appointment.

Dr. Shawn Brohl D.C., C.C.S.P.

Spring Meadows Chiropractic Center 6923 Spring Valley Dr., Holland 419-866-6325 springmeadowschiropractic.com Can you tell us a little about your practice, and what sets it apart?

We are a family practice that strives to help patients with peak performance, not just pain relief. Our staff is top notch and that helps set us apart.

What’s something you wish people knew about their health in regard to your specialty? We help our patients maintain their health, not just pain relief.

What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their health? Waiting until they have symptoms rather than practicing prevention.

What health-related resolution would you suggest people consider for 2022? The Toledo area has a lot of great chiropractors, so make a resolution to visit one if you are not already seeing one.

Cont’d on p16

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2022 •

15

SPONSORED CONTENT

Ashley Bush

MSW, LISW-S, PMH-C Bloom Women’s Counseling, Consulting, and Wellness LLC 128 E. Dudley St., Ste. F/G, Maumee 419-326-5732 bloomwomenscounseling.com Can you tell us a little about your practice, and what sets it apart?

Bloom Women’s Counseling, Consulting, and Wellness, LLC provides services exclusively to women experiencing postpartum mood disorders (such as postpartum depression/anxiety), miscarriage/pregnancy/stillbirth/infant loss, motherhood adjustment, as well as relationship and parenting concerns.

This is a unique area of mental health that is often underserved. It requires specific knowledge and training to effectively treat and manage those going through these experiences.

What’s something you wish people knew about their health?

I think many women suffer in silence because they may be afraid to admit

they are struggling in their motherhood journey, or they are not sure where to turn. I wish more women knew how common many of these experiences are, and that they are not alone.

What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their health? I see many women waiting to get the help they need. While seeking care for mental health is something you can do at any time, if you are struggling with a postpartum mood disorder, grief or anger related to motherhood, getting help as soon as possible can make a world of difference for both you and your children.

What health-related resolution would you suggest people consider for 2022? No matter who you are, I think prioritizing self-care is essential (especially coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic).There are six types of self care: psychological, emotional, spiritual, personal, professional and physical. Making a resolution to focus on just one of these types of self-care can greatly improve your wellness over the year to come, and finding a qualified mental health professional can be a perfect way to help you meet this goal!

FAMILY FAVORITES

NOMINATIONS

2022

JANUARY 1ST - FEBRUARY 15TH | VOTE ONCE PER DAY PER EMAIL | TOLEDOPARENT.COM

16

• January/February 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

SPONSORED CONTENT

Mixing fun with learning is what these local summer camp programs are about.

Whether swimming, cycling or horseback riding, memorable experiences are just ahead!

MAR/APRIL 2022 CALL 419,244.9859 or Email Sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Dr. Janelle Crozier Sullivan MD

The Pediatric Center, Inc. 3900 Sunforest Ct. #215 419-473-6670 2702 Navarre Ave. #106, Oregon 419-697-6777 3309 Quail Hollow Dr. #C, Lambertville, MI

What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their health?

Not getting enough sleep. It can affect many aspects of your physical and mental health. A consistent bedtime, a bedtime routine and avoiding electronics before bedtime can help improve sleep quality.

What health-related resolution would you suggest people consider for 2022?

Work on finding a way to fit physical activity and going outdoors into your regular routine. It can improve sleep, boost mental well-being and maintain physical fitness.

NEW ADDRESS IN JANUARY: 3417 W. Sterns Rd., Lambertville, MI 734-854-2428 facebook.com/pediatriccenter.inc

Cont’d on p18

Please Welcome Dr. Sullivan To Our Health Care Family!

Licensed School Psychologists on Staff Stephanie Dillabaugh, Ed.S. and Samantha Tomaszewski, Ed.S. ADHD / ASD Evaluations Developing behavior & academic intervention plans

Tell us a little about your practice and what sets it apart?

The Pediatric Center is a private practice with offices in Oregon, Toledo and Lambertville. An advantage to being a small private practice is that we are able to quickly adapt and be flexible to address the healthcare needs of our community.

What’s something you wish people knew about their health?

Taking care of your health includes mental wellness, and many people have been struggling with this even more during the pandemic. Wintertime, when there is limited daylight, can also affect mood. There are many resources in the community if you are struggling with depression, anxiety or any other mental health concerns.

Accepting New Patients Same Day Sick Calls Call Today, Get in Today!

ToLEDo 3900 Sunforest Ct. #215 419-473-6670

bloomwomenscounseling.com

iLLE LAmbErTv #C w Dr. 3309 Quail Hollo 2428 734-854-

orEgon 2702 Navarre Ave. #106 419-697-6777 ReloCAtiNg to Newly RemoDeleD lAmbeRtville offiCe jA NuARy 2022

3417 W. Stern s road Lambertville, m i

MAUMEE, OHIO | 419-326-5732

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2022 •

17

SPONSORED CONTENT

Meet Our Navigators

Dr. Andre Haerian DDS, MS

HLS Orthodontics 6407 Monroe St., Sylvania 419-882-1017 Andrea

Cheryl

DeShawn

Esteea

Julie

7928 Secor Rd., Lambertville, MI 734-854-6221 4413 Keystone Dr., Maumee 419-887-1247 perfectbraces.com

Glori

Maria

Patricia

Hilaree

Toledo/Lucas County CareNet's certified and licensed navigators are helping northwest Ohioans enroll in the federal Health Insurance Marketplace and Medicaid. Schedule a free appointment before open enrollment ends January 15.

Can you tell us a little about your practice, and what sets it apart?

Our practice is unique in that, although we offer the most advanced techniques and technology, we also provide care in a fun atmosphere.

(833) 628-4467 https://bit.ly/3FBIET7 This project is supported by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $1.92 million with 100 percent funded by CMS/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CMS/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

18

• January/February 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

What’s something you wish people knew about their health in regard to your specialty?

Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics is not just about pretty smiles.

Although the end results are always aesthetically pleasing, our treatment offers jaw alignment for long-term oral health.

What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their health? Looking for treatment when something is wrong as opposed to preventive health maintenance.

What health-related resolution would you suggest people consider for 2022? 2022 can be the year for everyone to consider their own health and how their decisions can affect their loved ones and others in the community. Stay healthy and avoid unhealthy habits.

Letter from the EDITOR

SPONSORED CONTENT

Home for the Holidays

Returning to Pre-Pandemic Traditions

Kids Astrology

By Kimmie Rose

Adams Street Publishing Co. What is your favorite winter holiday tradition?

Cover Kid Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS IN FLORIDA WITH THE FAMILY, BUT THIS YEAR WILL BE DIFFERENT SINCE WE’RE AWAITNG THE ARRIVAL OF OUR FIRST GRANDCHILD!

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer

Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) CHRISTMAS ALE.

October 23 November 21

Debbie Evers

What sets your practice apart?

Our office provides pediatric-specific specialty dental care. We work with kids This month brings out the passion and creof all ages and LOVE what we do! ativity in your mysterious and sometimes quiet Scorpio child. Do you ever get that What’s the biggest mistake feeling that inside that mysterious mind is you see people making when a creative genius? This is the blessing of it comes to their health? FollowSylvania Pediatric Dental Care being the parent of a Scorpio. Get closer ing diet fads and trends. Nothing can to them by watching them discover their 5860 W Alexis Rd, Sylvania replace simple, wholesome ingredients. talents through experience.

419-882-7187 Eat a variety of colors and try to find This month, Scorpios will illuminate their insylvaniapediatricdentalcare.com foods with as few modifications as pos- ner passions. Here’s a suggestion: pick up sible. an art canvas, colored pencils, stencils, an apron, a table cover, paint, brushes and a This ismade the time of year whenor I start to solidify plans for family visits. Who If families one change What tips do you have for a sponge. Put the tablecloth over your table, is going spend Thanksgiving added onetonew habit regard-at our house? Will we be making an 18-hour happy, healthy 2022? Be present. and set up a creative space for them to exto see in mythe parents forYear, Christmas? Last year threw all of those joyous ing road theirtrip health New Life gets very busy at times and it is press themselves. Scorpio children love to anticipations intosuggest a flat feeling of disconnect. Holiday traditions went by the what would you they easy to lose sight of what really matters. explore new things. Tell them that you just as wewater. all just tried to stay safe and make it through without engaging do?wayside Drink more It’s a great way Put down your devices and spend time wanted to have some fun drawing, paintin super-spreader For me, it was a lot of watching bad Christmas romto keep your teeth andevents. body hydrated, ing and that they can too. Leave it set up connecting with your loved ones. coms on Netflix and missing my family get-togethers. clean and healthy. for a week and you will see them (on their This year is all about reclaiming that connectivity with our family. In this own time) delving into their inner expresissue, we’ve included stories about maintaining family ties, like our Digital sion.

Age article about Dishtory, an app that promotes togetherness through cook-

RDH, EFDA

ing and sharing family recipes. In addition to our annual Holiday Happenings and Gift Guide, we filled the pages with hopeful stories, including the feature on Fia, an organization that builds community among mothers.

You’ll also find resources to help you navigate tough decisions that moms tend to feel intense conflict about, including the “breast is best” topic, with local experts sharing different points of view, plus resources to get you through what is often a tricky postpartum adjustment.

Whether you are looking for tools to help you on your parenting journey or tips for holiday fun, we know you’ll find inspiration in our November/ December issue.

November 22 to December 21

(toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com) WEARING UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATERS. STAFF WRITER Jeff McGinnis

(mcginnis@adamsstreetpublishing.com) SEEING MY NIECES SMILE WHEN THEY OPEN PRESENTS! DIGITAL MEDIA Nate Light (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) ICEBALL FIGHTS. DIGITAL MARKETING & SOCIAL MEDIA Margot Jacobs (margot@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

WRAPPING PRESENTS. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Erin Holden, Amelia Roberts, Taylor Viers, Autumn Vasquez, Jeff McGinnis, Kimmie Rose, Kiera Jacobs, Julie Pompa, Mary Rose Kulczak, Lisa Alleman, Kimberly Feldkamp, Emily Remaklus, Laurie Bertke, Erin Schoen Marsh

Advertising SALES Suzanne Bell (sbell@adamsstreetpublishing.com) PREPARING ALL THE FAVORITE FOOD FOR FAMILY MEALS Gabrielle Huff (ghuff@adamsstreetpublishing.com) DECORATING OUR CHRISTMAS TREE AND HAVING CHRISTMAS DINNER WITH MY FAMILY Bonnie Hunter (bhunter@adamsstreetpublishing.com) WATCHING MOVIES. Jenny Leach (jleach@adamsstreetpublishing.com) DECORATING OUR CHRISTMAS TREE WITH THE KIDDOS WAS ALWAYS MY FAVORITE! ALL GROWN NOW, SO MISS IT!

Art/Production

PRODUCTION MANAGER Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) SWEET POTATO SOUFFLE.

getinnatehealth.com Happy Holidays!

(419) 872-2255 XOXO,

SENIOR DESIGNER Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) BLACK FRIDAY SHOPPING .

Erin Holden Assignment Editor Toledo Area Parent

Leading the way with pediatric, prenatal and family chiropractic care!

SIGN UP TO RECEIVE OUR WEEKLY E-NEWSLETTER TO ENTER CONTESTS AND GET THE “SCOOP” ON WHAT’S HAPPEINING AROUND TOLEDO.

toledoparent.com

4

Editorial

ASSIGNMENT EDITOR Erin Holden

Your Sagittarius child was born with a curious mind and will always want to explore beyond Mom and Dad’s limits; however, they also want direction from Mom and Dad about what is, and what isn’t, good for them. They are the future teachers, scientists, researchers, and explorers. This month will offer you and your child the opportunity to grow together as they will be attached at your hip, watching everything you do and wanting to try it!

Administration

ACCOUNTING Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) OUR FAMILY OUTING TO CUT DOWN A FRESH CHRISTMAS TREE. DISTRIBUTION Karena Adams (distribution@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

Advertising/General Info

TIME TO SEND IN YOUR PHOTOS!

For advertising and general information, call 419-244-9859 or fax 419-244-9871. E-mail ads to adsin@ adamsstreetpublishing.com. Deadline for advertising copy 2 p.m. Friday before publication. Toledo Area Parent subscriptions are available by mail for $30 per year at Adams Street Publishing, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, Ohio 43604. One copy free per person per week; extra copies $1 each. Persons taking copies for any reason other than personal use are subject to prosecution.

Letters to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are subject to editing, and should include the writer’s full name and phone number. Any letter submitted to the editor or publisher may be printed at the publisher’s discretion in issues subsequent to its receipt. Entire contents © 2021 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without written permission of the publisher.

Head to toledoparent.com and show us your cadidates for our next cover kid contest!

Also publishers of:

• November/December 2021 • www.toledoparent.com www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2022 •

Audited by

19

SPONSORED CONTENT

HEAD CLASS

Local educators showcase their passion, experience and expertise

By Erin Holden

Behind every impressive educational institution and intensive curriculum, there is always a leader who can mobilize their team to make the whole thing a success. We reached out to area educators who have dedicated their professional lives to enriching the lives of children. Through their innovative techniques and pedagogical philosophies, they truly make a difference in their students’ educational journeys.

Hunter

Principal

Toledo Public Schools’ Pre-Medical and Health Science Academy 419-671-3400 tpsmed.org

T

oledo Public Schools is now taking applications for their newest program, in partnership with ProMedica, which is set to launch in fall of 2022.

Incoming ninth graders will have the chance to earn their STNA (State Tested Nurse Aide) certification, along with education in phlebotomy, pharmacy, and biomedical engineering at the Toledo Pre-Medical and Health Science Academy.

Jack Hunter, who has served as an administrator at TPS for a decade, will serve as principal of the school. He says that the program will be intensive, but within a nurturing environment suited to help students thrive. “The academic courses will be designed to meet each student’s needs every year,” Hunter says. “We understand how mental health plays a role in education and life, so we will meet with families frequently to check on how the learners are doing with coursework to decide what is best for them moving forward. We will have numerous types of course track options, allowing our students unprecedented flexibility.”

Hunter is the ideal leader for this new initiative, as his philosophy is to challenge the status quo and “uncovering the hidden talents in students.” What he loves most about this position is its potential to help students become immersed in a career that they love, and to see them excel as they move from high school to college, or immediately into the job market.

“Many times I have met students who already have the vision for what their success will look like,” adds Hunter. “My passion is to help remove all barriers so that learners can reach their goals.”

20

Bennett

Leadership Resident

iLead Spring Meadows

1615 Timberwolf Dr., Holland 419-491-7423 ileadspringmeadows.org Years at institution: This is my second year at iLEAD Spring Meadows. I have spent 13 years in charter school education.

Describe your responsibilities within this position: To support the campus, however possible, with my background in charter school leadership, and also to learn and grow within the iLEAD organization.

• January/February 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

What is it that makes iLEAD stand apart from others? Aside from the open concept class spaces and project-based learning, we truly focus on the learners as individuals. iLEAD’s vision and mission provide opportunities for intentional activities that truly support all aspects of a learner’s growth.

What do you love most about your job? The people I work with, as well as the freedom to do what’s right for those people!

Educational philosophy: When you put people and relationships first, the rest will come. You can’t teach people if you don’t know them.

SPONSORED CONTENT

Join us for

TAKE A TOUR TUESDAYS!

Nathaniel

Director, Lead Preschool Teacher

ENROLL NOW!

Cardan Montessori Center 1555 S. Byrne Rd., Ste. 100 419-787-7376 cardanmontessori.com Years at institution:

6 years

Describe your responsibilities at Cardan Montessori: I play a dual role as a teacher and as the school’s director. As the lead preschool teacher, I create group and individual lessons to ensure I’m meeting each child’s needs academically. As the Director, I oversee curriculum, budgeting, and student-parent relations. I aid our staff in creating and implementing developmentally-appropriate lessons, as well as guide and support them during their Montessori training. To me, it is essential to form a relationship with every family that attends Cardan Montessori Center. If I’m familiar with each child’s individual needs, I’m better able to help them develop a life-long love of learning and to reach their highest potential.

What is it that makes your school stand apart from others? We are bridging the education gap by providing high quality early childhood education to children and families from low-income homes. Our goal is to make Montessori education accessible to everyone, regardless of the family’s ability to pay, and to support them as their child’s first and best teacher.

What do you love most about your job? My favorite part of my job is being in the classroom when children make new discoveries and realize they are capable of anything they set their mind to. I love when a child understands a new concept, especially if it’s one they’ve been struggling with, and you see the lightbulb go off…it’s the “aha” moments for me.

What is your educational philosophy? I believe the purpose of education is to create individuals who can think, not only for themselves, but for the well-being of others in their community. All children deserve equal access to a quality education, regardless of any differences they may have. Children need an enriching environment in order to succeed, and as an educator I provide that.

Cont’d on P.22

Free To Think, Inspired To Create! iLEAD Spring Meadows is a TUITION-FREE public community school serving grades K-8 with: Project-based learning Social-emotional development Innovative, independent critical thinking Entrepreneurial and collaborative opportunities Flexible learning options to accommodate your family needs

To learn more, go to

31 years of teaching dance

dance center ages 2 & up winter session begins jan. 10th, registration jan. 7th 5:30-7:00 pm specializing in variety of classes jazz tap  ballet  hip  lyrical tumble

iLEADSpringMeadows.org 1615 Timberwolf Dr. Holland, OH 43528 419-491-7423 info@ileadspringmeadows.org

class schedule, pricing & more info online at

minimotionsdance.com 419.473.0999 | 2437 tremainsville rd.

TAKE A TOUR TUESDAYS!

9:30-10am and 10am-10:30am www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2022 •

21

SPONSORED CONTENT

Blochowski Computer Science teacher and baseball coach St. Francis de Sales High School 2323 W. Bancroft St. 419-531-1618 sfsknights.org

Years at institution: 29 Describe the work you do at St. Francis: My current responsibilities are teaching Introduction to Computer Science, Web Design, Game Design, AP Computer Science A and Principles, Cybersecurity, and Introduction to Engineering; however, over the last 29 years, the courses I have taught have changed in the same way that technology has changed.

ENROLL YOUR CHILD TODAY!

Cardan Montessori Center

What is it that makes your school stand apart from others? St. Francis is a high academic institution that focuses on equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in college. What makes us different is that the uniqueness of each student is valued and supported, and the students form a bond that no other word can describe except “brotherhood.” The slogan, “Be who you are and be that well” is lived.

What did your child learn today? www.cardanmontessori.com

OPEN FROM MONDAY TO FRIDAY AT 4:30 AM TO 8:00 PM

What do you love most about your job? Most teachers realize that they won’t inspire every student they teach to love their subject or even love themselves. But when that does happen, it brings a tremendous feeling of accomplishment. Additionally, seeing a student go out and make an impact on the world is very rewarding.

Affordable rates.

Quality Early Childhood Education Degreed Staff Meals and Snacks Included Providing care for ages 6 weeks- 12 years.

We are thrilled to announce that our Teacher of the Month is Mariah Gregg, our Infant Lead Teacher!

Mariah has been with us for 3 years, and in that time she’s earned a great reputation among parents, students, and co-workers for her thoughtfulness and great attitude.

Mariah just finished her CDA to benefit herself and classroom. Many times, Mariah has stayed late or come in early to help. When we have new employees, she has taken time to train them properly.

Thanks for all that you do, Mariah!

Mariah Gregg Infant Lead Teacher

Hometown: Toledo, Ohio How many years have you taught in the Toledo area? 3.5 years My classroom is always stocked with: Supplies and snacks How did you decide you wanted to be a teacher? I’ve wanted to be a teacher since I was a little girl. I loved to play school.

Throughout my education I was always the teacher’s helper.

If I weren’t a teacher, I would’ve been: The arts and crafts coordinator of a nursing home or hospital.

My favorite thing to do in the classroom this time of year:

Making fun winter crafts with the children and playing with snow in the sensory bins.

www.educareacademy.com 22

Call to set up your tour today! (419) 704-2009

• January/February 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

SPONSORED CONTENT

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES HIGH SCHOOL 2323 W. Bancroft St. 419-531-1618 | sfstoledo.org Open House: Call to make appointment

Simmons

At St. Francis, we not only want to be the best school, but the best school for each individual student. From the teachings of St. Francis de Sales, we encourage our students to ‘be who you are and be that well.’

This motto, imprinted on the hearts School Leader of our students and faculty, has formed our educational philosophy. Students at St. Francis understand that myPREP is “my path, my journey, and my plan HOPE Learning for education.” myPREP (Professional Readiness Education Program) is our Academy innovative, individualized approach to education, where students can explore areas 4234 St.myPREP is to ignite the of interest and go deeper into their passions.

TheMonroe goal of love of learning in students of all grades. 419-297-6313 hopelearningacademy.org

Years at institution: 3 years CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY CENTER Locations in Toledo, Holland, Perrysburg, and Waterville 419-867-8570 | childrensdiscoverycenters.com

Describe your responsibilities as We believe in: school leader: Call As the school leader of Helping each student reach his or her Open House: for an appointment HOPE Learning Academy of Toledo, it potential With centers throughout the Toledo area, Children’s Discovery Center is a great opis my responsibility to uphold the misand implementing various tion for many families. This early care facility is aObtaining place where students learn through sion and vision of HOPE. Our primary strategies to in accommodate exploration, and the staff works hard to supportteaching children and families a creative goal is to support the social, emotional, different learning styles Christian environment. Children’s Discovery Center has programs for infants, todand academic needs of students with dlers and preschoolers, and offers a Discovery Express School for kindergarten-aged Protecting each student’s right to learn special needs and exceptionalities. Hope children. in a safe and healthy environment Learning Academy uses a non-tradiAdditionally, Camp Discovery is a summer program designed for school-aged chiltional classroom approach to meet the Expecting onlywhich positive outcomes dren. The school follows Reggio Emilia’s approach to learning, focuses on creatneeds of students we serve. I support ing strong, powerful and capable children. The Center’s educators are degreed teachers my staff in executing their commitment who have ongoing training throughout the school year. The programs are all Step Up to to high standards and success for all our What do you love most about Quality star-rated and the Centers have won various local and national awards. your job?

I love that every day I have students. the opportunity to make a positive CON’T ON PG 16 I lead the day-to-day activities of the impact on those around me. My goal is school with a positive, enthusiastic atto inspire others with kindness, grace, titude, taking the time to listen to what and positivity. I lead with patience and the students, staff, and parents need. It kindness with the hope that others feel is my responsibility to ensure that our the impact of that approach while workteachers are effective by supporting ing with me. classroom instruction, providing professional development, and providing a curriculum across all grade levels that will support our students’ learning.

My most important responsibility is to provide a safe and engaging learning environment where each individual student can learn, be inspired, and grow academically as well as socially.

What is it that makes your school stand apart from others?

There is no other school in the Toledo area that is like HOPE Learning Academy. We are dedicated to being a successful school by focusing on the social, emotional, and academic needs of the students we serve. HOPE provides small classroom sizes, sensory integration, social skills, and arts integration.

What is your educational philosophy? My personal philosophy of education is that all children are different and have different learning needs. Every child deserves to have a stimulating educational environment where they can grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. It is my mission to create this type of atmosphere where students can meet their full potential. HOPE provides a safe environment where students are invited to be themselves.

My personal mission is to teach, inspire, and help others to grow. HOPE Learning Academy is about giving hope to students and families that may have faced challenges in traditional classrooms. We individualize our education and instruction so that each student can learn and grow to their fullest potential.

As the school leader, I am able to make a positive impact on the students and teachers that I lead.

www.toledoparent.com • November/December www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2022 ••

15 23

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Forté Music School Expands Facility and Adds Toddler Programming

Forteì Music School student Maxellee O’Nan is having violin lesson with her amazing instructor Haleigh Willingham.

HOPE

Learning Academy of Toledo

Forteì Music School teacher Ryan Tequia is having voice lesson with school’s guitar & piano teacher Taylor Wilson in one of the Forteì’s newly renovated studios.

HOPE LEARNING ACADEMY OF TOLEDO

Experience the Hope Difference Designed for Students with exceptional Learning needs 4234 MONROE STREET TOLEDO OHIO 43606 419-297-6313

HOPELEARNINGACADEMY.ORG 24

W

hen the pandemic hit, Forté music school had many families pulling their kids from music lessons after devastating job losses. It wasn’t easy to weather the storm, but Forté has persevered and adapted to the “new normal” by adding air purifiers, a top-notch HVAC system complete with UV lights, while adhering to all recommended safety precautions.

“Thankfully, most of our wonderful students understood and were there for us!” says the school’s director, Virgil Lupu. “We were able to keep going through online lessons, and slowly we were able to rebuild back to where we were two years ago.”

Forté has now expanded to create studios on the second floor of their building, including eight new studio spaces to accommodate more than 700 students and 43 professionally trained music instructors. This expansion was an incredible feat during the pandemic, when contractors were not easy to come by.

To add to this accomplishment, Forté has also incorporated Music FunTime classes into their programming, which are ideal for children aged two through five.

Though it is designed to last two years, kids can take their time, learning at their own pace. A curriculum derived from research at Johns-Hopkins, Music FunTime enables kids to get a head start on their foundational knowledge of music.

“Kids absolutely love these classes!” says Lupu. “Seeing their smiles every time they come to class and every time they get a new instrument is priceless. It pays off for all the struggles we had to overcome during the expansion and during the launch of this new program.”

• January/February 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

digital age

include lower grades in school, a higher likelihood of developing mental health disorders (or the worsening of preexisting ones), disrupted sleep (which plays a huge role in the development process, especially during the teenage years), loss of friendships...the list goes on.

IsDishtory Your Preserves Child Food and Familyto Memories Addicted Social Media?

New app developed by Toledoans creates audio heirlooms by recording recipes

By Mary Rose Kulczak

Tips to help teens stay safe and find balance

It all started with a cookie. Dan ZaBegin at the beginning wisza was hoping to re-create the perfect Zawisza, a lifelong resident of Toledo sugar cookie from his childhood, so he and a University of Toledo graduate, went to the source and called his mother. contacted Chris Kozak to brainstorm “The inspiration for Dishtory started the idea. Kozak, also a Toledo native with a conversation between me and and UT graduate, knew where to start. my mother,” Zawisza said. “Looking to about In light of media coverage “Chris started from the beginning by share the sugar cookies I remembered saying, what we don’t the harmful effects that apps such as‘We don’t know or watch that new YouTube vlog right That being said, there have also from my youth with my own family, know,’” Zawisza said. “So we went to Instagram have onforyoung people, I wanted to get hercan cookie recipe before you go to bed. Maybe set aside been effects with social media, as many Northwest Ohiopositive resources as myself.

Afterparents a game ofare phone tag, my many wondering how they we could find. Weespecially talked to the Chama few hours a day where you’re not on in its ability to connect people mom called me back and left a voicemail can protect their kids. Is it okayber, for yourLaunchduring Rocket and Jump Start to Snapchat and go for a walk or read or the toughest of lockdowns at describing how she used to make the help lay the foundation for the app. In child tothat’s usewhen social promotional items, and Double A Solucookies, and themedia? concept If so, how can cook or...anything! pandemic. But of addition, we usedthe localbeginning resources likeof the tions for the app’s development.” of Dishtory was After listening to they do soborn. safely? (the law firm) Eastman and Smith for Also, curate your feed. Don’t follow course, moderation isKozak key. knew that he wanted this app the voicemail, I realized I now have this Seeking guidance, we reached out toFront Door Marketing for legal help, to be something that was accessible to people who make you feel bad about recipe (preserved) for the rest of my life, Caroline Fenkel at Charlie Health, all members the family while also andDr. in my mom’s voice.”

Did it surprise you whenof news yourself or your life. Always block and being user-friendly. “From the onset, we the first-ever virtual mental health broke that Facebook’s report any bullying (which, yes, inwanted thisown to be a multi-generational clinic for high-acuity patients. The clinic research showed its photo-and app, meaning it would be easy for users passive-aggressive commenting cludes serves teens and young adults strugof all ages regardless of their technologivideo-sharing app, Instagram, and anonymous posting). Your priority cal capabilities,” Kozak said. “Additiongling with mental health and substance can be toxic for ally, teenage girls? is your mental health, so making sure I think Dishtory can help bring use disorders. Fenkel, a licensed clinical through cooking Why? families together by sharing memories you haveConnecting a social media atmosphere Zawisza encourages families to social worker, is its co-founder and chief through meals theyand remember Definitely not a surprise to me, I from that is positive for your outlook— and download the app, take their devices years ago.” clinical officer. She shared some warnwould assume that most who provide maybe even yougetsomething— to theteaches kitchen, and to work creating ing signs to watch for as well as tips for mental health services for adolescentsto debut From development can makememories. a huge difference.

“The best way for kids to be inhelping your teen maintain balance in Kozak was no stranger would agree. It’s pretty obvious even to the kitchen.

• More instructors cluded in the Dishtory process is to With a family background in the restautheir digital lives. when you scroll through your own What are warning signs cooksome together!” he said. “Parents or of rant business, he knew how important • More studios grandparents can download the app Instagram feed — let alone the and feedsave of recipesdigital addiction in youth? it was to record that You have worked with youth• More opportunities! and work with their children to prepare be passed A simple threean average teenagercould — that the down. platform Broadly speaking, the emotional relaa delicious meal-- make a video of the button design allows users to record, and families for more than 13 is designed to promote an idealized tionship to devices, social media, gamadults and children cooking together, review and save those recipes with their years. What kind of changes kids through various steps in version or curated sense of reality. But ing, etc. iswalk what’s most important to pay smartphones. have you seen in your teen the recipe or let the young ones take “The launch has been an exercise in most of us aren’t actively thinking about attention to. The time spent is an obvipictures of the final product. The experipatience,” Kazak explains. “Dan and clients with the rise of social that when we’re scrolling, especially ous thingence to note, buttogether it’s notis always the of cooking sure to create I have been working on this for more media? memories, and, since the younger people who follow influencbest way family to determine whether orrecipe not a than two years, so the launch didn’t With a lot of our teen and young is recorded, those memories will last for We’re very excited to person ers who have huge happen sway overnight. over their young has a disordered relationfor Music generations.” finally share this with the world, and to adult patients, there’s a complicated Sign up audiences.

They’re bright and shiny and ship with technology.

Like all addiction, Lessons and receive help everyone start saving and sharing relationship with social media. We’re perfect and don’t usually disclose the app can be downloaded at Google Play it exists onThe a spectrum and varies from their memories.” seeing skyrocketing rates of youth stores, the iOS App, and dishstoryapp.com. murkier parts of their lives, so it makes person to person.

But when the relation-

By Laurie Bertke

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anxiety, depression, and suicidality, sense that their followers would think but I wouldn’t necessarily (or directly) Registration that their own lives will never measure Exp:1/15/22 attribute this solely to the increase in up. social media use. Nonetheless, we know It’s dangerous and irresponsible for that social media has played a huge role both the platforms and the influencers in exacerbating what may have been to continue to peddle this false narraCertificates benignGift mental health challenges. tive, especially around body image.

Available To give an example, someone might There’s an incredible amount of probe looking for healthy recipes on Instaeating•disorder content on Instagram 26 • November/December www.toledoparent.com gram. They already have underlying isthat’s masked as wellness, fitness, etc. sues around body image, but Instagram And it’s teaching young people that picks up on the user’s interest in healthy smaller is better; that altering your body eating and slowly takes them down a is better than accepting and loving it for rabbit hole that can lead to posts prowhat it is. Lots of research found that moting restrictive eating and ultimately rates of eating disorders increased in facilitate the development of disordered young girls during the pandemic, and eating or potentially more severe chalI absolutely think that’s because there lenges. This is just one example, but it was more time to scroll and compare. can manifest with almost any insecurity or seemingly benign inquiry.

What guidelines would you offer Other negative effects range from to help teens use social media increased feelings of loneliness and safely? isolation, worsening sense of self-worth, The first step is awareness. Be aware addictive tendencies with the technolof when and how much you’re on social ogy itself…all of the issues circulating in media. Maybe you don’t need to look at the news right now have been presentyour Instagram as soon as you wake up ing clinically for years.

419-540-0070

ship to Instagram or the Xbox or the phone begins to impact other relationships, that’s when it becomes important to reevaluate its use. This can look like lower self-esteem, marked decrease in participation in activities they used to enjoy, increased feelings of loneliness or disconnection, higher irritability or anger than usual, disrupted sleep patterns, and disproportionate reactions (sobbing, screaming, etc.) when faced with the idea of losing access to the technology and/or platform.

What are the risks of digital addiction, and how should parents respond if they are seeing these warning signs?

Living with a digital addiction can be thought of through the lens of other addictions: it chips away at the person’s identity, it cuts them off from their relationships and the things they love, and it makes participating in a balanced life nearly impossible. For kids, the risks

Parents should approach the situation with empathy, first and foremost.

Remember: just because your child is spending a lot of time on their phone or device doesn’t mean they’re addicted (remember when you would spend hours on the landline with your best friend after school?). But if you suspect that the relationship with technology has begun to affect everyday functioning and mental health, try to sit your child down and start a conversation with them about it. Communication is key; be curious without making assumptions in your questions. It’s important for them to feel heard, validated, and safe.

At what point should parents seek professional help for their child?

When the functionality of your child is being impacted by technology or social media, that’s when it’s time to seek professional help. If you’re not sure, seek help! Mental health professionals are here to guide and support you. It’s never too soon to ask for help.

How can parents help their teens maintain a balanced and healthy relationship with digital media?

Encourage them to set boundaries.

Model and demonstrate those same boundaries yourself with your own social media. For example, ensure mealtimes are device-free. Plenty of parents spend just as much time — if not more — on Facebook or on their work email. This isn’t just a young person’s problem. Lead by example and foster an environment that sets healthy boundaries with devices.

My child is about to get his/her first cell phone. What kind of ground rules can we set to help us avoid problems down the road?

I always advocate for anyone to emphasize moderation. Too much of anything can become dangerous. To set boundaries, I might suggest no cell phones while we’re engaging as a family (i.e. eating dinner or watching a movie or hiking, or anything along those lines). Encourage them to enjoy staying present in the moment and value quality time with loved ones.

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2022 •

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Photo by Laurie Bertke

healthy kids Kindness Rooms

Student volunteers produce hundreds of handmade cards

By Laurie Bertke

Mona McGhee affectionately refers to them as her “kindness kids.” The card constructors: a group of students at Toledo’s Central Catholic High School that spend their free time folding, stamping, cutting, punching and gluing to create greeting cards that are miniature works of art.

The teens produce hundreds of handmade cards a month, working in the school’s “Kindness Room” after school, on Saturdays and during any other downtime they have. Central Catholic students then personalize the cards with notes and distribute them monthly to faculty and staff, as well as to outside organizations such as nursing homes, hospitals and military bases. “We want our cards to look professional. Not just like you whipped it together. Rather, (the cards should) look like there’s been love and time and effort,” says McGhee, a college and career advisor who oversees the card making operation. “We’re just excited to spread kindness.”

Inspiring space/ Personal motivation At Central Catholic, the walls of the kindness room are painted a soothing baby blue and covered in inspirational quotes about kindness. Pegboards and shelving are lined with colorful, neatly organized supplies for paper crafting, and comfortable couches invite students to relax and socialize when they aren’t working on cards. Along with inspiring young people to do kind things for others, the rooms are meant to provide a safe haven for students who are struggling with bullying or other challenges, according to Boyle.

She knows the stakes firsthand: Boyle founded the Luken T. Boyle Campaign for Kindness in 2017 after her oldest son took his own life at the age of 14 in response to a cyberbullying incident. She began speaking to youth about the dangers of bullying three months after his death, and has since shared her family’s story with hundreds of young people in honor of Luken. “I just knew I wanted to get the message out,” says Boyle. “I wanted young people to understand the power of their words and their actions.”

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Card makers at Central Catholic High School include, from left, Bart Reamer, Ryleigh Smigielski, Julie Friesel, Dylan Hegedus, Karis Pfeiffer and Antiwon Brown. Student volunteers donate time after school and on weekends to produce more than 100 cards a month in the Kindness Room.

Luken had planned to attend Central Catholic, and McGhee describes the school’s Kindness Room as a labor of love where positive things have arisen from a terrible tragedy. She would like to see similar rooms in every school to foster intentional kindness. “It would make all of us happy to know that we were a catalyst for a change like that,” added McGhee.

Advocating for and empowering youth The Luken T. Boyle Campaign for Kindness, founded in Maumee, the organization advocates for and empowers youth to find their voice and to facilitate positive conversations with kindness, as well as to support those affected by bullying/cyberbullying. Now in its third year, Central Catholic’s room has far exceeded anything the Campaign’s executive director, Samantha Boyle, could have imagined. “It’s a collaborative effort, and it’s really cool to see kids, who would not normally engage or hang out with each other, working together in the Kindness Room, and essentially becoming friends,” says Boyle.

“It’s really fostered relationships within the school, and it’s inspired them.”

Bart Reamer, a senior who serves as student coordinator for the room, says the card campaigns allow students to interact with people they wouldn’t otherwise meet. “It expands the horizons of who people know and how connected we all are, even within the walls of Central,” he explains.

Building more Kindness Rooms With support from the Campaign, kindness rooms are spreading to other schools. A second room opened this year for elementary students at St. Patrick of Heatherdowns, and a third is in

Some of the more complex cards students make in Central Catholic’s Kindness Room feature multiple panels, accordion folds or pop-up elements. Photo by Laurie Bertke the works at Blessed Sacrament School.

Boyle says other private and public schools have reached out to her expressing interest in creating kindness rooms.

It can cost between $5,000-$10,000 to get a kindness room up and running, and Boyle’s organization works to cover those costs through its own fundraising and by soliciting private donors. The concept is adaptable to any sized space

• January/February 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

and any grade level, according to Boyle.

“The kindness room is a gift from us,” she says. “It’s up to each school how they want to facilitate it.”

Learn more about the Luken T. Boyle Campaign for Kindness at luken4kindness.org.

family matters

Art & Soul co-owners Stephanie Scigliano (left) and Lynda Kuehn. You can find their store, which sells jewelry, art, and gifts by local/regional creators, in the Toledo Lucas County Main Library.

Real Life in Miniature Local artist Stephanie Scigliano’s handmade dollhouse furniture

By Lila Waterfield

During Covid, Toledo artist and business owner, Stephanie Scigliano revisited an aspect of her childhood she thought that she had left behind. When her friend, Becky Gannom, acquired a dollhouse she reached out, knowing that Scigliano had been very interested in dollhouses years ago. There was no hesitation, and Stephanie readily agreed to help build and redecorate it. “I was into dollhouses, and I had a lot of them when I was young,” says Scigliano. “I would make the furnishings and little people or animals. It’s funny that I’m doing it again, and I’m now in my 50s.”

A growing project What started as a small project got a little larger when a woman in Old Orchard sold Scigliano an unfinished four-story vintage dollhouse. Determined to work on it in her spare time, she has been slowly transforming it into a dollhouse hotel, where each room will have a different theme.

Originally embraced as a way to keep her sane during Covid, her creations transitioned online to her Etsy store for the general public to thoroughly enjoy.

She is selling handmade pillows, bedding and even miniature planters. One type of dollhouse that has been selling especially well lately are her Suitcase Dollhouses; they are single room “houses” that are easy to pack up and bring along on any road trip or outing.

It makes a great gift for your little ones who like to take their Barbies and Kens along for a car ride.

Scigliano is no stranger to running a brick-and-mortar business, as she was the owner of one nearly 20 years ago in Plymouth, MI. In 2019 she was approached by Lynda Kuehn, who had a store named “Art & Soul” at Cricket West. Kuehn’s former partner had to step back, and she realized she was going to need some help to keep the business running smoothly. Though Scigliano initially declined, a few months later she envisioned how great the concept could be when the Main Branch of the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library allowed the store to move into the giftshop area. By September, 2019 the store was open and ready for business.

“Libraries are trying to come up with different ideas and offering different experiences to bring people in,” notes Scigliano. “They want to be a community resource. Libraries are evolving.”

Fast forward to today and Art & Soul is still thriving, having survived through the harshest parts of 2020.

The store consists of “mainly local and regional artists, so we have a lot of Ohio and Michigan talent,” explains Scigliano. There are handmade delights of all kinds, ranging from notecards and crocheted dolls to painted vases.

To browse the unique doll furniture, visit Scigliano’s etsy page. For store hours, up to date news, or to contact , see Art & Soul’s Facebook page or website.

What is your favorite Toledo hangout? We go to Stubborn Brother Pizza Bar regularly, and not just because my son works there — we love their pizza!

What is your favorite thing to do with your family? My husband and I love going to Mud Hens games. We go to a lot of shows at the Stranahan Theater. My daughter is really into theatre, and she is going to be studying film at Cleveland State next year.

Describe Toledo in one sentence. I’ve always felt that Toledo is a very art-centric city since we moved here [nine years ago].

A quote that you really like? “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” -Margaret Mead

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2022 •

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It’s Taco Time

Te’kēla offers up great family meals

By Kimberly Feldkamp

Te’kela Cocina + Cantina 25481 N Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg 418-874-8800 5147 Main St., Sylvania 419-517-0233 tekelacocina.com It’s not the norm for us to venture out on a weeknight for a family dinner, but when mom can avoid cooking for a night, we make exceptions.

On a Monday evening, my family— my husband and four children ages ten and under— headed to Te’kēla in Perrysburg for dinner. We had never been there before, and from what we had heard, we were definitely missing out.

We arrived around 5:30pm and were surprised to find the parking lot completely full so early in the dinner hour.

“Wow, it’s crowded, mom,” my hungry ten-year-old son said. “Yes, but that’s usually a good sign,” I replied. “It means the food is good.”

Happy hour, happy customers As it turns out, we were arriving at the end of the restaurant’s popular happy hour., with all alcoholic beverages and appetizers half off daily from 3-5:30pm, and from the size of the crowd, it’s definitely a deal worth checking out.

Te’kēla Perrysburg is a large restaurant, situated on North Dixie Hwy. near Levis Commons. (There’s a second location on Main Street in Sylvania). There’s plenty of seating in the bar area (good for that happy hour!), as well as the dining side. With four kids, we were led to a table in the larger back room where we had plenty of space.

One of our favorite things about Mexican restaurants is the chips and salsa, and the ones served at Te’kēla did not disappoint. My kids ate multiple servings, though we had to ask our server not to bring more or the kids wouldn’t eat their meals. The salsa was fresh and tasty— not too spicy, but flavorful— so everyone at the table enjoyed it. My son ordered the housemade guacamole and said it was delicious.

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More than just tacos The menu options are plentiful; even the pickiest eaters should certainly find something they like! In addition to tacos, enchiladas, bowls and fajitas, Te’kēla also offers wings, soups and burgers. There are a wide variety of a la carte taco combinations that start at $3 each.You can add rice and beans for an additional $4. You’ll find traditional Mexican classics like wet burritos, carne asada and tamale plates, as well as Latin specialties like Patrón and lime chicken, Cano’s chori pollo, and steak nacho burritos.

My two oldest each chose carnitas bowls. We should’ve read the description better, as the salsa verde was definitely on the spicy side and ended up being a little too much heat for my daughter’s liking. Overall, though, both kids ate much of the sizable portions.

My two youngest— both taco lovers— were in the mood for American fare, so one ordered chicken tenders and fries while the other chose a cheeseburger. The food was hot, the fries were perfectly crispy and both kids ate really well - so no complaints! It’s always nice to have a variety of options when kids are in tow.

My husband selected the steak nacho burrito, which he clearly liked, because it was gone before I could even get a bite!

I tried two of the tacos, barbacoa and cilantro lime chicken, in flour tortillas.

It was difficult for me to pick just two with such a variety of tempting combinations. I was pleased with my picks when they were quickly delivered, and really warm from the kitchen.

A steady stream of diners entered Te'kēla while we were there, without a wait for a table, which we always appreciate when dining as a family.

The food arrived at the table at different times which was somewhat of a drawback as the two oldest kids were almost entirely done with their meals by the time my husband’s plate arrived.

Our server kept us updated on the status of the other orders, but I’m a big

Try to pick just two. Tekela’s tacos are tasty and come in a variety of combinations.

The kids menu offers classic favorites like chicken strips and cheeseburgers. fan of eating together, that's the point of family dinners, so my one complaint was the gap between the serving of the meals.

Bottom line: The tacos were really good, and we’ll be back on a Tuesday to check out their Taco Tuesday special ($2 carne asada and grilled chicken tacos; $1.75 ground beef and shredded chicken). The menu offers a wide variety of options, so everyone can find something they like. Employees are friendly and knowledgeable and our server was patient with our children as they placed their own orders.

• January/February 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

The Short Course Outdoor dining: Available at the Sylvania location.

Online ordering: No Carryout: Yes Delivery:Yes— Grubhub Kids’ Menu: Yes High Chair: Yes Got milk? Yes

CALENDAR THURSDAYS Dungeons and Dragons Adventurers League Learn how to play one of the most popular RPGs of all time at this weekly event. Bring your own dice and pencil.

5-9pm. Toledo Game Room, 3001 W. Sylvania Ave. 419-475-3775. toledogameroom.com Mother Goose This 30-minute early literacy program for babies aged birth through 18 months and their caregivers includes music, rhymes and stories. 10am. Way Public Library, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg.

419-874-3135. waypublic.info Free (Nintendo) Switch Night Challenge a Mott Branch staff member to a game on the Switch for the chance to win a prize. 4-5pm. Mott Branch Library, 1010 Dorr St. 419-259-5230. toledolibrary.org FRIDAYS Friday Night Swim All levels welcome, with coaches and board members on deck. Must be a YMCA member to attend. 6:45-7:45pm.

West Toledo YMCA, 2110 Tremainsville Rd. 419-475-3496. ymcatoledo.org SATURDAYS Toledo Farmers’ Market The Farmers’ Market Association hosts Toledo’s centralized market for area farmers and gardeners, showcasing highquality, local products every Saturday.

8am-2pm. 535 Market St. 419-2556765. toledofarmersmarket.com Free

JAN

SATURDAY 1.1 North Pole Express Take the family on a trip on this quarter-scale train ride through a winter wonderland. $4 for adults, $3 for children. 5:30-9pm. Also Sunday, January 2, 5:30-8:30pm. Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 County Rd. 99, Findlay. 419-423-2995. nworrp.org MONDAY 1.3 Spice of the Month Club Cardamom is the focus of this month’s Club meeting at the Way Public Library.

Members receive a sample packet of the spice, a recipe and some history. Register at waylibrary.info.

TUESDAY 1.4 Winterscapes Participants in this step-by-step painting class will create a winter landscape painting. No experience necessary.

1-2pm. Main Library, 325 Michigan St. 419-259-5200. toledolibrary.org THURSDAY 1.6 Bookaneers Book Club Kids participate in this monthly book club where they talk about what they have read and play games. 4:15-5:15pm.

Way Public Library, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. 419-874-3135. waypublic. info Free FRIDAY 1.7 First Friday See a one-hour presentation of worksin-progress by students from the Toledo School for the Arts. Reservations are required. 9am. 333 14th St., #4. 419246-8732. ta4arts.org Free Free Admission to Wood County Museum Come out to the Wood County Museum for free admission every first Friday and see the four different exhibits on display.

10am-4pm. 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green. 419-352-0967. woodcountyhistory.org Free

Wild Lights at WW Knight Nature Preserve

Get some fresh air and wintry fun at the Nature Preserve, which has life size animal sculptures festooned with lights on display along the trail. It’s the perfect opportunity to leave your state of hibernation for a little exercise, and the kids will love the colorful characters they encounter. No registration is needed for this event. 5-8pm. Friday, January 8 through Sunday, January 10. WW Knight Nature Preserve. 29530 White Rd., Perrysburg. 419-353-1897. wcparks.org Free

Tecumseh’s 13th Annual Ice Sculpture Festival The weekend festivities at the Ice Sculpture Festival include vendors, balloon sculptures lining the downtown streets, and the main event: over 35 breathtaking ice sculptures created by local artists!

The event makes for a true winter wonderland for everyone in the family to take part in. Participating merchants are even offering a scavenger hunt! 9am5pm. Saturday, January 15. 10am-4pm. Sunday, January 16. Downtown Tecumseh, MI. 517-424-6003. downtowntecumseh.com

SATURDAY 1.8 Maumee Valley Adventurers Travel Circle Join the Adventurers for a hike followed by a travel related presentation. No reservations needed. 1pm. Also Saturday, January 22. Oak Openings Preserve, 4139 Girdham Rd., Swanton.

419-407-9700. metroparkstoledo.com Free Model Train Clinic Visit with model train hobbyists as they provide advice on repair and maintenance, as well as estimating the value of older trains. $5. 1-4pm.

Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, Spiegel Grove, Fremont.

419-332-2081. rbhayes.org Recycled Art Teens can create unique artworks using everyday recycled materials. 1-2pm.

Main Library, 325 Michigan St. 419259-5200. toledolibrary.org Free MONDAY 1.10 Amazing Animal Adaptations Learn what makes different animals unique and create your own unusual animal. For ages 6-10. 6-7pm. 3340 Dustin Rd., Oregon. 419-259-5230. toledolibrary.org Free

Cont’d on P.30

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2022 •

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Cont’d from P.29 Homeschool STEM Lab Offering hands-on STEM activities for students ages 5-12. 2-3pm. Waterville Branch Library, 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville. 419-878-3055. toledolibrary. org Free

Family Mini Terrarium Workshop at the Toledo Zoo What could be more fun in the dead of winter than creating your own tropical paradise? This educational event involves a tour of the Zoo’s Tropics greenhouse at the ProMedica Museum of Natural History, an introduction to a live tropical animal, and a guided creation of your own tropical terrarium. For ages five and older.

All children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. $30 for members. $35 for nonmembers. 1pm. Friday, February 19.

Toledo Zoo, 2700 Broadway St. 419-385-4040. toledozoo.org

Early Readers eBook Storytime BookFlix and other eBooks will be utilized for this storytime. For children 0-5 years old. Noon-12:30pm. Mott Branch Library, 1010 Dorr St. 419-259-5230. toledolibrary.org Free

THURSDAY 1.13 DYS Extended Family Education Learn from Diabetes Youth Services on how to manage your child’s Type 1 Diabetes at home. 7pm. 2100 Central Ave. 419-291-1234. Register at dys4kids.org. Free

Lego League For Lego masters (or for the inexperienced), Way Library provides Legos and the space for an hour of free building. 4:15pm. 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. 419-874-3135. waylibrary. info Free FRIDAY 1.14 BG Flea Market Scout out amazing buys at Bowling Green’s monthly flea market. 9am-4pm.

Also 9am-3pm, Sunday, January 15.

Wood County Fairgrounds, 13800 W. Poe Rd., Bowling Green. 419-277-0033.

Search “Bowling Green Flea Market” on Facebook.

Family Night Bird Feeders Create two feeders from clay and decorate them at this workshop for all ages. $30. 6-8pm. Sunshine Studios, 305 Conant St., Maumee. 419-8918877. sunshine.org Soul As part of their Silver Screen Series, the Valentine Theater presents a showing of the Disney/Pixar 2020 film Soul. $5.

7:30pm. 410 N. Superior St. 419-2423490. valentinetheatre.com

SATURDAY 1.15 Find Frosty Tabletop Escape Room Assemble the pieces of the famous snowman and win in this indoor game presented by Metroparks. 3-4pm. Main Library, 325 Michigan St. 419-2595200. toledolibrary.org Free THURSDAY 1.20 Reba McEntire The Queen of Country returns to Toledo with a show at the Huntington Center. $64.50-$234.50. 8pm.

500 Jefferson Ave. 419-321-5007. huntingtoncentertoledo.com River Rat and Cat An unlikely friendship is the focus of this play for young audiences. 4-5pm.

Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Rd., Maumee. 419-259-5360. toledolibrary. org Free SATURDAY 1.22 Cody Johnson The wildly popular country music star comes to the Huntington Center. $43128. 7:30pm. 500 Jefferson Ave. 419255-3300. huntingtoncentertoledo.com MONDAY 1.24 Furs, Fins and Farms Metroparks Toledo offers this presentation about how the landscape has shaped the history of the region. 6pm. Reynolds Corners Library, 4833 Dorr St. 419-2595320. toledolibrary.org Free FRIDAY 1.28 NW Ohio RV Camp & Travel Show The oldest and largest camping show in Ohio returns for a three-day event with more than 100 units on display. Through Sunday, January 30. Seagate Centre, 401 Jefferson Ave.419-321-5007. toledo-seagate.com

FEB

TUESDAY 2.1 Children’s Improv Workshop Children can learn beginning acting techniques through fun improv games.

5:30pm. Reynolds Corners, 4833 Dorr St. 419-259-5320. toledolibrary.org Free FRIDAY 2.4 Nickelodeon Night at the Walleye See the home team in custom Spongebob jerseys as they take on the Iowa Heartlanders. $19-28. 7:15pm.

Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave. 419-321-5007. toledowalleye.com SATURDAY 2.5 Ohio Novice State Tournament The tenth annual amateur wrestling event will be held at the Seagate Centre. $15, children 6 and under free. 9am.

401 Jefferson Ave. 419-255-3000. novicestate.com SUNDAY 2.6 Selfcare Sunday Take some time for you on the first Sunday of every month at YogaSix. Enjoy a yoga class or just stop by and find vendors offering different items. Event is free. To join the class is $5. 9am-1pm.

3300 Central Ave., Ste. A4. 419-9499186. yogasix.com/toledo

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• January/February 2022 • www.toledoparent.com

102.3 Proclaim FM’s Christmas Washington St. 419-725-4367. toledowDinner- Proclaim FM invites you to an alleye.com elegant and festive Christmas dinner!

Enjoy entertainment from social media stars Kristin & Danny, giveaways, and more! 6pm. $55. 2592 Parkway Place, Storytelling Day Maumee. 419-865-9767. proclaimfm.

This event, open to all ages, will feature ticketspice.com FOR RENT stations allowing visitors to experience stories from a variety of cultures, and FLEXIBLE STAY STUDIOS – Toledo FRIDAY 10 kids will take home a free piece of Siegel Suites, 6106 Trust Drive, Holland, The NutcrackerThe Stranahan multicultural literature. 3-5pm. Sylvania OH Beautifully fully furnished Studios. Pet TheaterChurch hosts Toledo Ballet’s 81st producfriendly w/ FREE utilities and Free cable.

United of Christ, 7240 Erie St., tion of the holiday classic.

7pm.

Also No lease, No Credit Check Required.Earn Sylvania. 419-882-0048. sylvaniaucc. performed December 11 at 2pm and free days with our REWARDS program. org 7pm, and December 12 at 2pm. $29Call now. 419-540-9029 47. Also available for streaming. 4645 HELP WANTED Heatherdowns Blvd. 419-381-8851. straTHURSDAY 2.10 PART TIME DRIVERS: If you nahantheater.com Metroparks Extended Hours are DEPENDABLE and can be counted on See the Metroparks in a whole new light to be CONSISTENT and are AVAILABLE, SATURDAY 11 event. Open until 8pm, WE want to talk with you. You must with this monthly St. Clements Christmas have DEPENDABLE TRANSPORTATION, flashlights encouraged.

5403BazaarCURRENT AUTO INSURANCE AND A From crafts to jewelry to clothing to treats, VALID DRIVER’S LICENSE. WE need you this event has it all! Make a visit and see to deliver magazines to local businesses, what you find! 10am-5pm. St. Clements FRIDAY 2.18 community gathering spots, and other locaChurch, 2990 Tremainsville Rd. stmstc.

Elevate the Stage ol- Come see the tions for Adams Street Publishing. A great org Free Podium-style gymnastics competition for mption with Ebenezer part time way to earn extra $$ do Repertoire Theatre, both NCAA and Junior Olympic Levels.

SEND A RESUME TODAY! Email: n a holiday tradition An Evening of February Broadway Through Sunday, 20. Seagate mijacobs58@gmail.com ars. 8pm. $19.75+.

Convention Centre, 401 Jefferson Ave. Featuring the Maumee Valley 19-243-9277.

419-321-5007. toledo-seagate.com String EnsembleEnjoy an evening of music and fun featuring a selection Perrysburg Winterfest of Broadway musical theatre songs, Shipshewana on athe Road rchestra- TheIce sculptures, family fun andperformances more can beautiful piano and musical Monroe, Perrysburg MI gift, food and estra is back! And be in This downtown overcraft show is an excellent opportunity to get your andfound surprise guests.shopping $15-$23.

7:30pm. ate 25 years ofPresidents holiday done, all while supporting local vendors. Unique gifts and Day weekend.

For the latest Maumee Indoor Theatre.

601 Conant St. other stories! 4pm and delicious food abound at this event where, if you are one of the first 200 guests information visit perrysburgwinterfest.org 419-897-8902. maumeeindoor.com ntington Center 500 to enter, you get $10 worth of Shipshebucks to spend! $5 entry fee. Saturday,

marketplace

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19-255-3300. trans-

Family

1. Tomatoes ___________ 2. A Pirate _____________

3. Airplane _____________

Winner will be selected from all correct entries. Entries must be received by December16, 2021. Winner will be notified by phone and receive $20 gift card to treasure hunt at ReStore.

All 10 photos must be found and page numbers indicated to be considered correct.

Favorites

4. Squishmellows _______ 5. Jelly Beans __________

6. Snowflake ___________ nominate your 7. An Ipadtoday! _____________ favorites 8. Pancakes ___________

2002

Sumit entries to ghuff@ adamsstreetpublishing.com

9. A lion _______________ 10. Candles _____________

FAMILY FAVORITES

November 6. 9am-6pm. Sunday, November 7. 10am-5pm. Monroe County THURSDAY 2.24 SUNDAY 12Fairgrounds, 3775 S. Custer Rd., Monroe, MI. 269-979-8888. Get a $1 off Jeff Dunham NOMINATIONS Million Dollar ChristmascouponQuartet at shipshewanaontheroad.com The wildly popular ventriloquist returns to Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins e Night: The Toledo as part of his 2022 Tour entitled and Elvis Presley come together again to as Carol- The “Jeff Dunham Seriously.” $51.50. 7pm. celebrate the holidays! It’s a jam-packed iew a classic holiHuntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave. Bedford Blizzard Fest of holiday hits that you won’t g along if you’d evening like!

419-255-3300. huntingtoncentertoledo. will be available want to miss! $44-74. 7:30pm. Stranahan This epic holiday event has it all: Christmas com 6:30-9pm. 3114 Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. 419movie showings, hot cocoa, an ice skating rink, 14-9025. ohiotheatre381-8851. stranahantheater.com Superheroes on Stage with TSO horse and carriage rides, and Olaf on a Jeepturned-snow-generator. What more could you This epic concert will feature THURSDAY 16 ask for? Blizzard Fest basically takes everything JANUARY 1ST - FEBRUARY 15TH | VOTE ONCE PER DAY PER EMAIL | TOLEDOPARENT.COM performances of some of the most you love about winter festivities and pulls sX- Visit this holiday Disney on Ice presents Mickey iconic superhero themes of all time, with and imagine and FriendsThe Huntington Center Superman, Spider-Man and them all into the lineup for this show stopping uty of art! From including perforevent. 3-9pm. Saturday, December 11. 9144 plays classic Disney of charac$25.featuring 7pm. Toledo Museum this event has itmore. all! host ters 2445 and the cast of Moana, Frozen and ter St. Bowling Art, Green.

Monroe St. 419-246-8000. Lewis Ave., Temperance, MI. facebook.com/ e more! $20-60. 7pm. Also performing bedfordblizzardfest toledosymphony.com Friday, December 17 at 7pm, Saturday, December 18 at 11am, 3pm and 7pm, SATURDAY 2.26 and Sunday, Seed SwapDecember 2022 19 at 1pm and 5pm. 500 Jefferson Ave. 419-255-3300.

Toledo GROWs Seed Swap will Annual Tree Lighting Event- If you’re Maumee Valley Historical Society disneyonice.com bring area gardeners together as spirit, looking to get into the Christmas they exchange and tree fes- Antique Show & Sale- The Annual look no potential further! Seecrops the Christmas Maumee Valley Historical Society Antique strategies.tooned Noon-3pm.

Scottlights.

High5pm.

School, with twinkling 6925 Show & Sale. $8. 10am-5pm. Also Providence St., Whitehouse.

419-8772400 Collingwood. 419-720-8714.

31 Sunday, December 5, 11am-4pm.

7315 www.toledoparent.com • November/December • 5383. whitehouseoh.gov Free toledogrows.org Free Championship Dr. Perrysburg. 248-425-

2022

BG Philharmonia Holiday ConcertHear live holiday music at BGSU! The BG Philharmonia will present a holiday concert in conjunction with ArtsX. 4pm.

1001 E Wooster St. Bowling Green. 419371-8171. Free

HELP WANTED 2868. wolcotthouse.org.

The Learning Club of Toledo is seek16th Annual Holiday Crafting

ingWishes candidates to serve as Part Time teachers for Make-A-Wish- Peruse the in work an inner city after-school of crafters and vendorsprogram. from near All candidates maketogether a commitment to either and far asmust they come to sell their Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday wares at this holiday show.

Also live perprogramming.

Programs meet from 3:30formances, pictures with Santa, and more!

Christmas at the Peristyle5:45pm.

Must2901 haveKey good communication 10am-4pm.

St. Maumee.

419Celebrate the sounds of the season! Join skills, high energy, and who are adaptable 494-5247. toledo.com Free the Toledo Symphony and Santa himself and reliable BCI and FBI background checks for this festive holiday tradition! 3pm. are required. Please send resume to deb$10+. 2445 Monroe St. 419-246-8000. bieapgar@aol.com OR call 419-360-2842 to toledosymphony.com schedule an interview.

Cover Kid

MORE EVENTS ONLINE AT TOLEDOPARENT.COM N

mile

S Y LVA N I A

6407 Monroe St. Sylvania, OH 43560 419.882.1017

m

mber • www.toledoparent.com

JUST POINT YOUR CAMERA!

TIME TO SEND IN YOUR PHOTOS! Head to toledoparent.com and show us your cadidates for our next cover kid contest!

www.toledoparent.com • January/February 2022 •

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