Toledo Area Parent July/August Issue

FREE JULY/AUG. 2021

THE RESULTS 10

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Ronald McDonald House Continues to evolve after COVID

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Ferdinand with the Extra Toes New book celebrates what makes us unique

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Food Fight Hit the VI for Cameo Pizza

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Volume 29 • Issue 4 JULY/AUGUST 2021

Toledo’s Award-Winning Parent Newspaper

ONLINE

FOLLOW US: toledoparent.com New Beginnings: Looking Ahead to a Post-Pandemic Life Find, like and follow us /toledoparent

We’re celebrating kids and family #toledoparent on Instagram!

Then follow what we like! /toledoparent

Keeping Kids Safe While Learning Virtually

Tips to help your children navigate an increase in screen time

UT Students Bring Camp Kesem to Toledo

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most read ONLINE

A supportive summer camp for kids whose parents have been affected by cancer

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FREE MAY/JUNE 2021

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Family Favorites voting

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MAKING HAPP Y CAMPERS

More Summer

Camp ideas for your kids!

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Meet Northwest Ohio’s first female Eagle Scou ts! P22

Feed yo ur child’s curiosity ! P8

Spring contest winners!

Rubik’s Perplexus Fusion

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Mother’s Day Brunch Spots Signs, Symptoms and Statistics of Sibling Sexual Abuse

JULY/AUG GIVEAWAY

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YOUR KID ON THE COVER OF TOLEDO PARENT!

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Would you like to see your little one on the cover of an upcoming Toledo Area Parent?

We are searching for the area’s cutest kids to be featured on our November/December 2021 cover! Receiving a FREE photo session from our sponsor, family photographer Raven Leigh Photography! Follow her on Facebook @RavenLeighPhotography.

Log onto toledoparent.com for more information and to enter. Just click on the contest link. Entries accepted now through August 5th.

Are you ready for a new twist on the classic puzzle— literally? This month we’re giving away Rubik’s Perplexus Fusion, a mind-bending puzzle that brings together two different challenges in one remarkable package. Arrange the cube in classic Rubik’s fashion, then move a ball through a confounding maze with over 200 obstacles. A brain-bender to keep you and your family entertained for hours! Enter today!

With businesses reopening, I can’t help but feel like I’ve gotten a new lease on life. The grass looks greener, people seem friendlier and every trip to the grocery store is a joy that doesn’t involve white knuckling a shopping cart while hoping I don’t have to sneeze in my mask again (ugh, the worst). I hope all of you are feeling the same profound sense of gratitude that this edging toward normalcy has given me!

The relief my husband and I have experienced being vaccinated is palpable— I feel the tension I’ve held in my body for the past year and a half easing up more and more every day. Back in March, when I was closing in on nine months of pregnancy, I talked to my doctor about getting the vaccine.

Without hesitation, she said, “Do it!” explaining that my child would benefit from the antibodies both in utero and during breastfeeding. I got my first shot of Moderna while pregnant and the second two weeks after Townes was born. No regrets.

This issue of Toledo Parent is all about embracing the things we’ve missed— see Family Favorites for fun activities— and the back-to-basics practices we learned to enjoy in the pandemic— like family gardening. This issue is a guide for families who are ready to make up for lost time, enjoying the rich experiences Toledo has to offer. Here’s to (carefully) revisiting the Old Normal— hopefully with a new appreciation for all the little moments we might have taken for granted before the virus.

Now go forth and summer!

With love, Erin Holden Toledo Parent Assignment Editor

Congratulations to the winner of our May/June FUNKO SNAPSIES giveaway!

Emilia Garner, 11, and Maddie Garner, 5, with their prizes!

www.toledoparent.com • JULY/AUGUST 2021 •

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Kids Astrology

By Kimmie Rose

Adams Street Publishing Co. What’s your favorite thing you get to do now that you didn’t get to do last summer due to COVID? Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) GO TO FLEA MARKETS AND ART FAIRS.

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer

June 21 - July 22 Cancer children are smart, independent homebodies. They have amazing imaginations and tend to be hoarders. The next two months will ignite your Cancer’s natural curiosity. . .which will mean more mess than normal indoors! To avoid frustrations with cleaning up one creative endeavor after another, spend as much time outdoors as possible. Plan an outdoor treasure hunt to satisfy adventurous minds! Provide your little Cancer with a container to store little treasures s/he finds around the house or in the yard. Let your child decorate it to make it his/her very own treasure chest!

LEO

FAMILY FAVORITES 1st Place - Favorite Family Activity 1st Place - Favorite Family Day Trip

July 23 - August 22 Playful and full of enthusiasm, your little Leo loves to be the center of attention.

Your little lion feels the need to make everyone happy, the perfect time to teach him/her to help others for the sake of spreading joy, versus doing good deeds for attention and praise. Point out for them how their kindness helps others.

To reiterate the importance of good deeds, choose a person who could use some extra kindness and let your little lion feel the joy of secretly performing good deeds, without reward, to encourage him/her to feel the strength of community.

Enhance your lion’s natural leadership ability, instill compassion and teach that everyone can play a significant role in making the world a better place. Those feelings are needed now more than ever!

We’re celebrating kids and family

#toledokids on Instagram!

Want to be featured on our IG? Use the hashtag #toledokids and your pictures could end up on our page.

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• JULY/AUGUST 2021 • www.toledoparent.com

Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) SEE LIVE MUSIC.

Editorial Assignment Editor Erin Holden

(toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com) GOING SHOPPING AND GETTING TO TRY ON CLOTHES!

Interim Assignment Editor Jeff McGinnis

(mcginnis@adamsstreetpublishing.com) SEE MOVIES IN THE THEATER!

Digital Media Nate Light (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) LIVE SPORTS AND LIVE MUSIC! Digital Marketing & Social Media Margot Jacobs (margot@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

LIVE MUSIC! Contributing Writers Emily Remaklus, Tanni Haas, Ph.D., Laurie Bertke, Erin Schoen Marsh

Advertising

Sales Coordinator/Classifieds Ebanie Fischer (ebanie@adamsstreetpublishing.com) GO TO CANCUN FOR A DESTINATION WEDDING WE’RE IN THAT WAS MOVED A BECAUSE OF COVID. Sales Suzanne Bell (sbell@adamsstreetpublishing.com) ATTEND CONCERTS! Gabrielle Huff (ghuff@adamsstreetpublishing.com) GOING OUT TO TRY NEW RESTAURANTS WITH FRIENDS AND ATTENDING CONCERTS! Bonnie Hunter (bhunter@adamsstreetpublishing.com) VISIT AND HUG MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS. Jenny Leach (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) LIVE SUMMER CONCERTS!!

Art/Production

Production Manager Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) LONG WALKS. SO HARD TO BREATH WITH COVID. WALKING HAS BECOME THE THING I ENJOY THE MOST. Senior Designer Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) GO TO BASEBALL GAMES.

Administration

Accounting Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) GO TO CONCERTS! Distribution Karena Adams (distribution@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

Advertising/General Info

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.

Audited by

Also publishers of:

As childhood evolves, so do we. Check out some of our favorite moments on social media and send your most loved photos to production@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Polar Bear club (Mom on the Go): from left to right; Samuel Kunkle, Cambra Kaiser, Kat Tomasewski, Mya Tomasewski (15), Kris Kunkle, Maxwell Tomasewski (13), Elijah Kaiser(3), & Maddy Tomasewski (10).

West Toledo.

Sliding@ Secor Metropark: Bentley Murd, 21 months, Maumee

Fun!

Lemonade Stand: Sophia Ernst (9) and Arabella Ernst (6) Maumee

Strawberry picking Bennett Fiske, age 7 from Haskins

Swimming at Sylvania YMCA: Alivia Robinson 9 West Toledo

www.toledoparent.com • JULY/AUGUST 2021 •

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Oregon Theatre presents the Bare Necessities of the Jungle Book

The classic Rudyard Kipling novel and beloved Disney musical comes to life with an Oregon Community Theatre (OCT) production of The Jungle Book Kids.

Presented as part of OCT’s Summer Children’s Theatre Camp, the show presents an abridged version of the animated musical featuring its classic songs. Two separate stagings of the show will be produced simultaneously as part of OTC’s summer camp, with one session presenting their show on Saturday, July 17, and the other performing on Sunday, July 18. For more information on Jungle Book Kids, visit facebook.com/OCTKidsShow.

Toledo makes healthy drinks default options for kids

A recent vote by the Toledo City Council is aimed at cutting down on kids’ consumption of sugary drinks at area restaurants. On April 13, Council approved a measure that makes healthy drinks— such as low-fat milk, fruit juice or water— the default options offered with kids’ meals at area restaurants. Parents will still be able to request different drinks, if they wish. The program will be rolled out gradually over a period of six months to allow restaurants to change their menus and to retrain staff.

Amazon donates to TPS

Amazon presented a check for $7,500 to Toledo Public Schools on May 6. The donation was made in part to celebrate the opening and completion of Amazon’s 150,000 square foot sorting hub on Reynolds Rd. (at the former site of Southwyck Mall). The donation was made in a ceremony at Byrnedale Elementary School with a check presented to TPS Superintendent Romules Durant. Amazon noted that the company hopes to partner with the school district in the future, including collaborating on educational programs and offering internships.

Spreading love through stories of a panda Area celebrities share their favorite children’s stories

Gather around the computer, kids— it’s time to hear a story! In defiance of the pandemic, the 8th season of the Valentine Theatre’s popular Gretchen Zyndorf School Days Educational Theatre Series is showcased on the Valentine’s YouTube channel and webpages, with notable locals reading some of their favorite children’s stories to young listeners. Participants this season included former Toledo Mayor Mike Bell, current Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz, City Council member Dr. Cecelia Adams and Ohio First Lady Fran DeWine. To join the storytime, visit valentinetheatre.com.

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Local author and illustrator Myra G. Love released the third book in her series of tales for children focused on a character named Davey Panda. God Will Bless Those Who Are Sad follows its young protagonist as he helps his friends deal with experiencing loss. Written in the style of a nursery rhyme, Love’s book series spreads the word of the gospel and helps her young audiences remember scripture. Visit Love’s website at myraglove.com.

Boys and Girls Club & First Tee to open new youth center

First Tee of Lake Erie and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo are partnering to build a new 15,000 square foot youth center on Hill Ave., between Richards and Reynolds.

The Dattilo Youth Leadership Center, which began construction last year, will open this fall. First Tee, a national non-profit which aims to inspire children while teaching them the game of golf, also will serve as the home base for the Schoenrock Family Boys & Girls Club, with classrooms, a gym, game rooms and a full driving range. For more information, visit bgctoledo.org.

Downtown Sylvania gets Grumpy

Turn that frown upside down! Toledo dining favorite Grumpy’s Food and Drink has opened at 5629 Main St. in Sylvania, the site of the former Executive Diner. Featuring classic Grumpy’s favorites like the Garbage Salad, the Grilled Chicken Deluxe Sandwich, Grumpy’s signature breakfast and more, the menu will put a smile on most any face. Grumpy’s has announced that a third location will soon open in Bowling Green.

1. Wolf _______________________ 2. Strawberries ________________

A new tutoring business hits Toledo

Mindy Hazuda, the owner of Academic Foundations, has 19 years of experience in special education and is now offering both in-person and virtual tutoring sessions.

She specializes in teaching phonemic awareness, phonics, sight words, reading fluency, reading comprehension, math calculation, math problem solving and written expression. She also specializes in K-6 Language Arts and Math. Academic Foundations.

Academicfoundations2021@gmail.com. facebook.com/academicfoundations2021

3. Robot ____________________ 4. Cat ______________________ 5. Cow______________________ 6. Popcorn____________________ 7. Globe_______________________ 8. Toothbrush __________________

Winner will be selected from all correct entries. Entries must be received by August 15. 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.

Sumit entries to distribution@ adamsstreetpublishing.com

9. Rubik’s Cube ________________

Free summer sports camp

Western Toledo Preparatory Academy is a new, tuition-free, K-7 public charter school with a goal to develop new student athletes. Toledo native Kechan Johnson, the school’s principal, a former professional athlete, intends for students to build on their athleticism and competitive spirit while still focusing on academic pursuits. Western Toledo Preparatory Academy. 61455 Hill Ave. 419-697-1518. westerntoledoprep.org

10. Milk ________________________

Mary Poppins makes her way to Toledo

This summer, the Glass City welcomes a new daycare facility named after a most famous British nanny. Mary Poppins Daycare & Nanny Services offers structured routines for children aged six weeks to twelve years old, but with a comfortable home-like environment. With a mission to help kids develop physically, intellectually, emotionally and socially by engaging their curiosity in the world around them, qualifying parents can take advantage of their at-home nanny services, if preferred over daycare.

Call or visit their website to learn more about this addition to Toledo’s childcare community. Mary Poppins Daycare & Nanny Services. 5702 W. Alexis Ave., Sylvania.

419-318-2844. marypoppinsdaycare.org

www.toledoparent.com • JULY/AUGUST 2021 •

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EXCEPTIONAL FAMILIES for parents of children with special needs

Aid to Excel

H.Y.P.E. serves the community’s mental health needs

By Emily Remaklus

According to the National Alliance on Mental Health, 1 in 5 adults in the United States has experienced mental illness. The National Survey of Children’s Health states that 1 in 6 children in the United States from ages 6-17 have a treatable mental health disorder. And with the global pandemic, those numbers are sure to have increased. When it comes to mental health issues, there are a number of local options for help.

What is H.Y.P.E? H.Y.P.E. (Helping Young People Excel) is a Toledo-area behavioral health company that assists those struggling with mental and behavioral health.

The organization started as a tutoring service for students in grades 1-9 but, as CEO Claudia Romero stated, “We began to notice education was not the only barrier many of our clients were struggling with. Many showed struggles with anxiety, depression and traumas.”

H.Y.P.E. developed a holistic approach, addressing external and internal struggles, such as mental health awareness.

Services offered by H.Y.P.E. include individual therapy, case management, psychiatric services and day treatment-all supported by professional health care providers. H.Y.P.E. also provides education programs to assist students in summer school, as well as job training programs.

Serving the public, no matter what Recently, H.Y.P.E. underwent some changes, relocating to the Monroe Medical Plaza. This larger space allows more people to be served while multiple group sessions to take place at once.

With inviting colors and themes in the building’s rooms, they serve people where they are most comfortable, with meetings at their office, in the community or at an individual’s home. To ensure that clients are able to make their appointments, H.Y.P.E. provides transportation to scheduled sessions as well.

H.Y.P.E. also offers integrated telehealth services which aid those in need.

According to Romero, “H.Y.P.E. has noticed an increased need in services due to the state requirements of COVID-19 guidelines. We saw an increase in depression and anxiety rising as young people were forced to transition from their everyday routine to being restricted from having face-to-face encounters with others.”

To ensure that everyone received assistance during quarantine, H.Y.P.E. team members, provided with proper equipment, continued to offer their services. H.Y.P.E. also provided clients with headphones— and sometimes even iPads— to ensure they could attend sessions virtually.

With the mental health strains imposed upon so many by the pandemic, H.Y.P.E. has truly been, and continues to be, a lifeline.

For more information about H.Y.P.E. and their services, check out www.hypeoflucas.com.

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tween the lines

advice for parents with children 10-16

r u o y g Gettin talk o t s n e e T Tips For Parents

By Tanni Haas, Ph.D.

Parents of teens know that it can be difficult to get them to talk. If they’re not in the mood and you ask how their day was, the likely answer is a monosyllabic, “Fine.” It doesn’t have to be that way.

There are many things parents can do to get their teen to talk. Here’s what experts suggest:

Ask open-ended questions Ask questions where a simple yes or no response won’t suffice. “By asking questions that can’t be answered with only a yes or no,” says Sue Scheff, founder and president of Parents’ Universal Resource Experts, a teen advocacy organization, “you’re opening the door for your teenager to say more than a couple of words in reply to you.” Instead of asking your teen how their day was, Scheff suggests saying, “Tell me about your day.”

If you want specific information from your teen, ask personal and fun questions that trigger deeper conversation.

For example, you could ask questions like, “What was an interesting thing that happened at school today?” or “Why do you think your friend wanted to talk to you?”

Respect their privacy Whatever your teen chooses to share with you, assure them that you’ll respect their privacy and not share the content of the conversation with others. “To earn our kids’ confidence, we’ve got to respect their privacy and keep our promises.” says Joanna Teigen, author. “Consistently handling their ideas, emotions, and stories with care goes a long way to keeping communication open.”

Listen well Listen to your teens, and listen well.

“Listen, listen and continue to listen without interrupting,” says clinical psychologist Dr. Barbara Greenberg. “Once you interrupt, your teens are likely to shut down. Just let them talk and vent, and they’ll be so appreciative.”

A great way to show that you’re listening, according to clinical psychologist Dr. Laura Markham, author of Positive Parent, is to “backchannel your teen’s words occasionally— not repeating everything they say, of course, but repeating some key phrases here and there, with a questioning intonation to make sure you’ve got it right.”

Look at the world from their perspective Another strategy to get your teens to talk is to make an effort to look at the world from their perspective. “Teenagers think that their parents and caregivers don’t understand them,” says Scheff.

To counteract that, “really try to imagine how you’d feel if you were in her shoes.”

If your teens are sharing something that’s making them angry or sad, show that you understand what it’s like.

Offer advice sparingly If you feel the need to offer advice (an almost irrepressible parental urge), be careful about blurting out what you think they should do. Instead, ask your teen what options they’re considering.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Elaine Reese agrees that parents should only give advice sparingly. “More than likely, if your teen’s disclosing it to you, they already know what they should do. Heavyhanded advice will only make them less likely to disclose in the future.”

Talk about yourself As Joe White, author of Sticking With Your Teen, says, “Model what you want your teen to do.” Clinical psychologist Dr. Darling agrees. If you want your teen to talk about their day, talk first about yours, like “things you enjoyed, something funny that happened at lunch, a movie you loved, a great meme you thought was funny on Facebook. And while you’re still laughing, ask them about their favorite YouTube video.”

Using these easy-to-implement principles, you’ll have the adolescent in your life go from being reticent to a fountain of sharing.

www.toledoparent.com • JULY/AUGUST 2021 •

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Every year, thousands of Toledo area parents weigh in on the businesses, places and people they love. Parents rely on our list of winners to help them choose pediatricians, find the perfect birthday venue, grab the most delicious meal and much more. We are honored that you take the time to let your voice be heard and support your favorite area institutions. Here are the TAP Family Favorites of 2021!

Places and Spaces Overnight Trip with the Kids WINNER: Kalahari Resorts Sandusky 7000 Kalahari Dr., Sandusky 877-525-2427 kalahariresorts.com

RUNNER UP: Great Wolf Lodge greatwolf.com

Family Activity WINNER: Toledo Zoo 2 Hippo Way 419-385-4040 toledozoo.org

RUNNER UP:

Country Lane Tree Farm countrylanetreefarm.com

Family Day Trip WINNER: Toledo Zoo 2 Hippo Way 419-385-4040 toledozoo.org

RUNNER UP:

Favorite Library Branch WINNER: Main Library 325 N. Michigan St. 419-259-5200 toledolibrary.org

RUNNER UP: Waterville Place to Worship WINNER: St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Maumee 104 W. Broadway St., Maumee 419-893-4848 stjosephmaumee.org

RUNNER UP: Cedar Creek cedarcreek.tv

Kid-Friendly Museum WINNER: Imagination Station 1 Discovery Way 419-244-2674 imaginationstationtoledo.org

RUNNER UP:

Toledo Museum of Art toledomuseum.org

Sporting Event for Families WINNER: Toledo Mud Hens Fifth Third Field, 406 Washington St. 419-725-4367 milb.com/toledo

RUNNER UP: Toledo Walleye toledowalleye.com

Place to Volunteer WINNER: Toledo Humane Society 827 Illinois Ave., Maumee 419-891-0705 toledohumane.org

RUNNER UP:

Toledo’s Pet Bull Project toledospetbullproject.com

Animal Encounters WINNER: Indian Creek Zoo 2744 Consear Rd., Lambertville, MI 734-224-0390 indiancreekzoo.com

RUNNER UP: Toledo Zoo toledozoo.org

Country Lane Tree Farm

One of the Glass City’s most powerful resources of breathtaking views, the Toledo Botanical Garden offers 60 acres of quiet beauty. Offering a place to learn about gardening and perennials, remarkable pieces in the Artisan Village, the Secret Forest play area for kids and the new Doneghy Inclusive Garden, the Botanical Garden delivers unforgettable experiences for all ages.

RUNNER UP: The 577 Foundation

countrylanetreefarm.com

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Garden/Nature Center WINNER: Toledo Botanical Garden 5403 Elmer Dr. 419-270-7500 metroparkstoledo.com

577foundation.org

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ISSUE BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE Call today for more information 419.244.9859

COVID-Friendly Spot WINNER: Metroparks Toledo Various locations 419-407-9700 metroparkstoledo.com

RUNNER UP:

Country Lane Tree Farm countrylanetreefarm.com

TIME TO PARTY

Locally Owned Place to Buy a Gift WINNER: Fiddlestix Boutique 5693 Main St., Sylvania. 419-386-2812 4165 Chappel Dr., Perrysburg.

419-931-2022 fiddlestixboutique.com

RUNNER UP: Toledo Lamp Co. toledolampcompany.com

Party Entertainment WINNER: Laurel’s Princess Parties 6800 Central Ave. 567-455-1134 laurelsprincessparties.com

Place for an indoor birthday bash WINNER: Country Lane Tree Farm 3525 N. Bolander Rd., Genoa 419-461-1298 countrylanetreefarm.com

RUNNER UP: Addie’s Closet Parties

RUNNER UP: Paint Your Place

Place to Buy a Birthday Cake WINNER: Sara’s Sweets 435 S. Eastown Rd., Lima 419-371-4745 sarassweetslima.com

Place for an Outdoor Birthday Bash WINNER: Country Lane Tree Farm 3525 N. Bolander Rd., Genoa 419-461-1298 countrylanetreefarm.com

RUNNER UP:

RUNNER UP: Wildwood

addiescloset.shop

Crowned Cakes by Jess crownedcakesbyjess.com

paintyourplacebyjm.com

metroparkstoledo.com

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DELICIOUS EATS Cupcakes/Bakery WINNER: Natalie’s Cake Library nataliescakelibrary.com

RUNNER UP: Cake in a Cup cakeinacup.com

Candy Shop

WINNER:

Boyd’s Retro Candy Store 954 Phillips Ave. 419-720-7387 boydsretrocandy.com

RUNNER UP:

Maumee Valley Chocolate and Candy valleycandy.com

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Family Friendly Restaurant WINNER: Local Thyme 6719 Providence St., Whitehouse 567-246-5014 localthyme.pub

Frozen Treats Shop WINNER: Mr. Freeze 2031 N. McCord Rd. 627 W. South Boundary St., Perrysburg.

Search “Mr. Freeze” on Facebook

RUNNER UP: Whitehouse Inn

RUNNER UP: General’s Ice Cream

thewhitehouseinn.net

generalsicecream.com

Healthy Family Restaurant WINNER: Fowl and Fodder 614 Adams St. 419-214-1588 fowlandfodder.com

Local Pizza Place WINNER: 5th Street Pub 105 W. 5th St., Perrysburg 419-931-9933 5thstreetpub.com

RUNNER UP:

pizzaromamenu.com

Balance Pan-Asian Grille balancegrille.com

Kid Friendly Coffee Shop WINNER: Flying Joe 2130 Preston Pkwy., Perrysburg 419-931-0273 theflyingjoe.com

RUNNER UP:

Brew House Coffee & Bake Shop brewhousemaumee.com

RUNNER UP: PizzAroma

Place Where Kids Eat Free WINNER: Fricker’s Various locations frickers.com

Best Curbside Option WINNER: Balance Pan-Asian Grille 5860 W. Central Ave. 419-578-7777 26520 N. Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg.

419-874-7777 balancegrille.com Though its downtown location may be temporarily closed, Balance’s Central Ave. and Perrysburg restaurants adapted admirably to a pandemic world. Customers can order on the official Balance App and pick up curbside at either location. With their amazing selection of snacks, bowls, tacos and more, there are few options that are better (or better for you) than Balance.

RUNNER UP: Zingo’s eatzingos.com

RUNNER UP: El Vaquero vaquerorestaurant.com

Best Delivery Option WINNER: Jimmy John’s Various locations jimmyjohns.com

WHO WON LAST YEAR? LOG ON TO SEE

toledoparent.com

RUNNER UP: Vito’s Pizza vitos.com

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SHOP LOCAL Locally Owned Place to Buy Kids’ Clothing WINNER: Piper Jean Bowtique 3132 West Sylvania Ave. 419-215-5720 Search “Piper Jean Bowtique” on Facebook

RUNNER UP: Once Upon a Child onceuponachild.com

Baby Boutique Shop WINNER: Piper Jean Bowtique 3132 West Sylvania Ave. 419-215-5720 Search “Piper Jean Bowtique” on Facebook

RUNNER UP: Bowinkles bowinklesboutique.com

Family-Friendly, Locally Owned Grocery Store WINNER: Walt Churchill’s Market 3320 Briarfield Blvd., Maumee.

419-794-4000 26625 N. Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg.

419-872-6900 waltchurchillsmarket.com

RUNNER UP: Sautter’s sauttersmarket.com

Place to Buy Children’s Books WINNER: Gathering Volumes 196 E. South Boundary St., Perrysburg 567-336-6188 gatheringvolumes.com

RUNNER UP:

NeverMore Used Bookstore Search “NeverMore Used Bookstore” on Facebook

Mom-Owned Business WINNER: Axiom Lux 5650 W. Central Ave., Ste. D3 419-318-9005 axiomlux.com

RUNNER UP:

Piper Jean Bowtique Search “Piper Jean Bowtique” on Facebook

Family Photographer

WINNER:

Lindsey Brown Photography 11639 Savannah Lake Blvd., Whitehouse 419-265-2518 lindseybrownphotos.com

RUNNER UP: Galati Photography galatiphoto.com

Bike Shop WINNER: Wersell’s 2860 Central Ave. 419-474-7412 wersellsbikeshop.com

RUNNER UP: Cycle Werks shopcyclewerks.com

Kids’ Consignment/ Resale Shop WINNER: Once Upon a Child Various locations onceuponachild.com

Black-Owned Business WINNER: We Be Ribs 21 Wenz Rd. 419-537-9268 weberibs.com There are some names that are just synonymous with cuisine in Toledo. Steak: Mancy’s. Hot Dogs: Packo’s. Ribs: ...well, it’s right there in the name. Owner and founder James McDay has worked tirelessly to create the most lip-smackingly delicious sauce in Northwest Ohio for his ribs and one taste will let you know it was worth every effort. We Be Ribs has been a staple of Toledo diets since 1993.

RUNNER UP:

Jera’s Heavenly Sweets jheavenlysweet.com

RUNNER UP: Twice but Nice Search “Twice but Nice” on Facebook

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participation of our community partners, our staff,

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Technology Engineering Electronics Business Accounting Entrepreneurship Vehicle Technology Auto-Engine/Body Diesel Medical Office Management Technology Construction Electrical Trades Carpentry Welding Magnet High Schools Jones Leadership Academy of Business Toledo Early College Toledo Technology Academy Aerospace and Natural Science Academy of Toledo

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

ENROLL NOW! 16

FOR MORE INFORMATION

VISIT TPS.ORG

• www.toledoparent.com ni rehto yna ekilnu raey•loJULY/AUGUST ohcs a no krab2021 me ew sA evitca dna troppus eht rof lufknaht er’ew ,yrotsih ruo ,ffats ruo ,srentrap ytinummoc ruo fo noitapicitrap ecaf ll’ew ,syawla sA .seilimaf rieht dna stneduts ruo straeh ruo ni epoh htiw semit ruo fo segnellahc eht

Continued from P. 14 Local Parent Facebook Group WINNER: Toledo Moms facebook.com/toledomomcollective

RUNNER UP:

School Principal WINNER: Jamie Hollinger, Waterville Primary

RUNNER UP: Cristy Seely, Elizabeth Wayne Preschool

Toledo Moms for Social Justice Search “Toledo Moms for Social Justice” on Facebook

Elementary School

Local Online Influencer WINNER: Toledo Moms facebook.com/toledomomcollective

Waterville Primary School 457 Sycamore Ln., Waterville 419-878-2436 anthonywayneschools.org

RUNNER UP:

Mom on the Go in Holy Toledo momonthegoinholytoledo.com

Local YouTube Videos WINNER: Erin Marsh Yoga facebook.com/ErinMarshYoga

RUNNER UP: Jaden Jefferson Reports Search “Jaden Jefferson Reports” on YouTube

Local Business/Organization that Transitioned Online due to COVID WINNER: Laurel’s Princess Parties 6800 Central Ave. 567-455-1134 laurelsprincessparties.com

Parochial School WINNER: St. Ursula 4025 Indian Rd. 419-531-1693 toledosua.org

Tutoring Center WINNER: Sylvan Learning Various locations sylvanlearning.com

RUNNER UP:

kumon.com

Notre Dame Academy nda.org

WINNER:

Private School WINNER: St. Joseph’s Maumee 104 W. Broadway St., Maumee 419-893-3304 stjosephmaumee.org

RUNNER UP:

West Side Montessori montessoritoledo.org

RUNNER UP: sjjtoledo.org

Middle School

WINNER:

Fallen Timbers Middle School 6119 Finzel Rd., Whitehouse 419-877-0601 anthonywayneschools.org

RUNNER UP: Perrysburg Jr. High perrysburgschools.net

St. John’s Jesuit

After-School Program WINNER: Girls on the Run 6024 Renaissance Pl. 419-318-9211 girlsontherun.org

RUNNER UP:

Children’s Discovery Center childrensdiscoverycenters.com

RUNNER UP: Kumon Special Needs Service

WINNER:

Help Me Grow— Lucas County 1020 Varland Ave. 419-691-1429, ext. 244 helpmegrow.org

RUNNER UP:

Ability Center of Greater Toledo abilitycenter.org

Daycare

WINNER:

Children’s Discovery Center Various locations 419-867-8570 childrensdiscoverycenters.com

RUNNER UP:

Maria Early Learning Center mariaelc.org

Continued on P. 18

RUNNER UP: Toledo Library toledolibrary.org

WATCH ME SOAR Preschool WINNER: Children’s Discovery Center Various locations 419-867-8570 childrensdiscoverycenters.com

Charter School WINNER: Toledo School for the Arts 333 14th St. 419-246-8732 RUNNER UP: Elizabeth Wayne ts4arts.org Preschool stpaulsmaumee.org/ewpreschool Founded by Martin Porter in 1999, TSA has distinguished itself as one of the Teacher preeminent performing arts schools— WINNER: Melissa Gottschalk, not just locally, but nationwide. Beyond Waterville Primary School preparing its students for the collegiate RUNNER UP: Marissa Minnick-Metcalf, level with a focus on core subjects, atSt. Joseph Catholic Church tendees get the chance to learn about theatre, dance, visual arts and more, with opportunities to learn from professional artists and working partnerships with Toledo cultural cornerstones as well.

RUNNER UP:

Northwest Ohio Classical Academy nocacademy.org

www.toledoparent.com • JULY/AUGUST 2021 •

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Continued from P. 17 Martial Arts Program

WINNER:

New Heights Gymnastics and More 6539 Weatherfield Ct., Maumee 419-795-2132 newheightstoledo.com

ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES Acting and Theatre Classes

WINNER:

Children’s Theatre Workshop 2417 Collingwood Blvd.

419-244-5061 ctwtoledo.org

RUNNER UP:

Jon Penny’s Black Belt Academy jpblackbeltacademy.com

Swim Lessons WINNER: SafeSplash + SwimLabs 1510 Spring Meadows Dr. #D-100 419-370-2801 safesplash.com

RUNNER UP:

Perrysburg Musical Theater Company perrysburgmusicaltheatre.org

RUNNER UP:

YMCA of Greater Toledo ymcatoledo.org

Dance Studio

WINNER:

Rising Stars Dance Academy 3640 N. Holland Sylvania Rd. 419-279-1127 risingstarsdanceacad.com

RUNNER UP: Dance Expressions dance-expressions-studio.com

Horseback Lessons WINNER: Country Lane Tree Farm 3525 N. Bolander Rd., Genoa 419-461-1298 countrylanetreefarm.com

Music Lessons WINNER: Forté Music School 3208 W. Sylvania Ave. 419-471-2100 fortemusicandarts.com Name an instrument, almost any instrument. Yep, Forté offers lessons for it. No matter what your child wants to learn, no matter how much experience they have, no matter whether they will take lessons in person or online— Forté is your go-to destination.

With dozens of professional teachers on staff and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s clear why Forté has been a staple of these awards every year.

RUNNER UP:

The Liz Baldwin Studio Search “Liz Baldwin Studio” on Facebook

RUNNER UP: Oxford Farm oxfordfarms.com

Kids Art Class WINNER: Toledo Museum of Art 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000 toledomuseum.org

Soccer Lessons WINNER: Soccer Shots soccershots.org

popitpaintit.com

Pacesetter Soccer Club pacesettersoccer.com

RUNNER UP: Pop It Paint It Gymnastics Class

WINNER:

Sunrise Gymnastics Academy 3640 N. Holland Sylvania Rd. 419-841-2902 sunrisegymnastics.com

RUNNER UP:

New Heights Gymnastics and More newheightstoledo.com

RUNNER UP:

DOCTOR’S ORDERS Pediatric Practice WINNER: Perrysburg Pediatrics 1601 Brigham Dr. #200, Perrysburg 419-872-7700

Urgent Care WINNER: ProMedica Urgent Care Various locations promedica.org

RUNNER UP:

Greater Toledo Urgent Cares greatertoledourgentcares.com

OB/GYN

WINNER: Kristel Ward, ProMedica

Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology Maumee 660 Beaver Creek Cir #200, Maumee 419-891-6201 promedica.org

RUNNER UP: Franklin Park Pediatrics RUNNER UP: Jackie Vannuyen, franklinparkpediatrics.com

ProMedica Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology - Sylvania promedica.org

Midwife

WINNER: Erin Marten, unaffiliated RUNNER UP: Barbara Lahey, Toledo Midwife toledomidwife.net

Doula

WINNER: Tiana Taylor,

Doula Tiana Birth Services tianataylor.com

RUNNER UP:

Shelly Varelli, Ann Arbor Doulas annarbordoulas.com 18

• JULY/AUGUST 2021 • www.toledoparent.com

Family Doctor WINNER: Travis Rasor, Fallen Timbers Family Physicians 5705 Monclova Rd., Maumee 419-893-3321 mclaren.org

RUNNER UP:

Yasser Malik, The Toledo Clinic toledoclinic.com

ENT Doctor WINNER: Dr. Christopher Perry, Toledo Clinic ENT 5800 Park Center Ct. 419-724-8368 toledoclinicent.com

RUNNER UP:

Dr. Jay Jindal, ProMedica Physicians promedica.org

Optometrist/ Ophthamologist WINNER: Robert K. Rhee, Pediatric Ophthalmology Consultants 6544 Central Ave. 419-517-5500 pocllc.com

RUNNER UP:

Dr. Kyle Brodie, MyEyeDr. myeyedr.com

Place to Give Birth

WINNER:

ProMedica Toledo Hospital 2142 N. Cove Blvd. promedica.org Nearly half the babies born in our area are born at ProMedica Toledo Hospital. Featuring spacious rooms for labor, delivery and recovery, the hospital also hosts a level 3 perinatal unit, specifically for high-risk births. The hospital also features a variety of childbirth classes and postpartum support groups.

Place to Play Mini-Golf WINNER: Par 2 Golf 210 E. Alexis Rd. 419-478-4477 par2golf.com

RUNNER UP: McLaren St. Luke’s

RUNNER UP:

mclaren.org

Orthodontist Chiropractor WINNER: Innate Health Chiropractic WINNER: HLS Orthodontics Various locations 26580 N. Dixie Hwy #101, Perrysburg perfectbraces.com 419-872-2255 getinnatehealth.com RUNNER UP: Dr. Jean Kay,

RUNNER UP: Brendon McMahon, McMahon Chiropractic mcmahonchiropractictoledo.com

Kay and Paulus Orthodontics kayandpaulus.com

ProMedica Physicians 1050 Isaac Streets Dr. #128, Oregon 419-693-2230 promedica.org

Speech/Language Therapist WINNER: Leah Bechstein, Wood County Hospital Rehab Services 950 W. Wooster St., Bowling Green 419-354-8900 woodcountyhospital.org

RUNNER UP: Dr. Ghassan Safadi,

RUNNER UP: Grace Kelly,

Allergist

WINNER: M. Razi Rafeeq,

Allergy Clinic Ohio allergyclinicohio.com

Erin Knierim 3036 W. Sylvania Ave. 419-474-0733 drknierim.com

RUNNER UP:

RUNNER UP:

WINNER:

Sylvania Pediatric Dental Care sylvaniapediatricdentalcare.com

Family Dentist

WINNER:

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

RUNNER UP:

Howard, Nicholas and Baburek happysmiletoledo.com

Veterinarian

WINNER:

Whitehouse Animal Hospital 6828 Texas St., Whitehouse 419-877-0411 Search “Whitehouse Animal Hospital” on Facebook

RUNNER UP:

Park or playground WINNER: Oak Openings 4139 Girdham Rd., Swanton 419-360-9179 metroparkstoledo.com

RUNNER UP:

Toledo Botanical Gardens metroparkstoledo.com

Heatherdowns Veterinary Clinic heatherdownsvetclinic.com

Local Doc/Practice that Instituted Innovative Ways to Stay Safe during COVID

WINNER:

Toledo Pediatric Speech Therapy toledospeechtherapy.com

Family Mental Health and Counseling Services WINNER: The Willow Center 5565 Airport Hwy #100 419-720-5800 willowcenter.com

Pediatric Dentist

Perry Falls Mini Golf Search “Perry Falls Mini Golf” on Facebook

Anchored in Hope Counseling anchoredinhopecounseling.org

Perrysburg Family Physicians 702 Commerce Dr. #160, Perrysburg 419-872-7600 perrysburgfp.com

RUNNER UP: Dr. Jon Frankel, Jon Frankel Dentistry jonfrankeldentistry.com

GET ACTIVE

Natural Homeopathic Health WINNER: Dr. Maleigha Watts, Toledo Naturopathic 13 S. 3rd St., Waterville 419-376-6104 toledonaturopathic.com

RUNNER UP: Jennifer Pfleghaar,

Place to Go Ice Skating WINNER: Sylvania Tam-O-Shanter 7060 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania 419-885-1167 sylvaniatamoshanter.com

RUNNER UP: Ottawa Park ottawapark.org

Waterpark

WINNER:

Kalahari Resorts Sandusky 7000 Kalahari Dr., Sandusky 877-525-2427 kalahariresorts.com Featuring the state’s largest indoor waterpark, Kalahari Resorts in Sandusky offers a remarkable variety of ways to have fun while getting wet, no matter if you wanna take it easy or find some excitement. And the kids will love the colorful slides!

RUNNER UP: Great Wolf Lodge greatwolf.com

Pflegmed Integrative Medicine pflegmed.com

Continued on P. 20 www.toledoparent.com • JULY/AUGUST 2021 •

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Continued from P. 19 Family Friendly Gym/Fitness Club

WINNER:

New Heights Gymnastics & More 6539 Weatherfield Ct., Maumee 419-795-2132 newheightstoledo.com

RUNNER UP: YMCA of Greater Toledo

Summer Day Camp

Spa Day for Mom

New Heights Gymnastics & More 6539 Weatherfield Ct., Maumee 419-795-2132 newheightstoledo.com

Serenity Health & Wellness Center 1685 Lance Pointe Rd., Maumee 419-891-2181 serenitywellness1.com

WINNER:

WINNER:

RUNNER UP: Country Lane Tree Farm

RUNNER UP:

countrylanetreefarm.com

ymcatoledo.org

Kids Fitness Class

Soccer Program WINNER: Pacesetter Soccer Club 5400 Central Ave. 419-885-3140 pacesettersoccer.com

New Heights Gymnastics & More 6539 Weatherfield Ct., Maumee 419-795-2132 newheightstoledo.com

RUNNER UP: Soccer Shots soccershots.org

WINNER:

RUNNER UP:

YMCA of Greater Toledo ymcatoledo.org

Anthony Wayne Youth Foundation 7225 Providence St., Whitehouse 419-877-5050 awcommunity.net

Park for Family Hikes WINNER: Oak Openings Preserve Metropark 4139 Girdham Rd., Swanton 419-360-9179 metroparkstoledo.com

RUNNER UP: YMCA of Greater Toledo

RUNNER UP:

Youth Sports League

WINNER:

ymcatoledo.org

Wildwood Preserve Metropark metroparkstoledo.com

Family Friendly Bike Trails

WINNER:

WINNER

Oak Openings Preserve Metropark 4139 Girdham Rd., Swanton 419-360-9179 metroparkstoledo.com

RUNNER UP: University Trail metroparkstoledo.com

Soto Signature Salon and Spa sotosalonspa.com

COVID19 RESPONSE Most Generous Volunteer Group WINNER: Acoustics for Autism acousticsforautism.com

RUNNER UP:

Lucas County Juvenile Court CASA casakids.net

Best Online Resource for Education

WINNER:

Toledo-Lucas County Public Library toledolibrary.org

RUNNER UP: Toledo Zoo toledozoo.org

Best Remote Learning Options

WINNER:

Anthony Wayne Local Schools anthonywayneschools.org

RUNNER UP:

Imagination Station imaginationstationtoledo.org

ME TIME Date Night WINNER: Benchmark Restaurant 6130 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg 419-873-6590 benchmark-restaurant.com

RUNNER UP: Spaghetti Warehouse meatballs.com

Girls’ Night Out

WINNER:

Peace Love & Pottery Studio 6750 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania 419-517-4414 peaceloveandpotterystudio.com

RUNNER UP: The Heights theheightstoledo.com

Workout for Mom WINNER: YMCA of Greater Toledo 6465 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania 419-729-8135 ymcatoledo.org No matter your age or how intense a workout you are looking for, the YMCA offers something for you. A vast variety of group exercise classes and programs are available, and if you want something a little more in depth, the Y also offers sessions with personal trainers who can tailor your workout to your particular needs.

RUNNER UP: Fitmama 419 20

• JULY/AUGUST 2021 • www.toledoparent.com

fitmamas419.com

SPONSORED CONTENT

ASK THE EXPERT

Maternity Q&A with Dr. Nick Goin

What are the most frequent complaints you hear from pregnant patients about their aches and pains?

The most common discomforts we see in our pregnant mommas are low back pain, sciatica, pubic bone pain and round ligament discomfort.

What lifestyle changes do you recommend when it comes to preventative maternal care?

The best advice I can give a pregnant momma when it comes to lifestyle is to try to eat more green leafy veggies, get at least 30 minutes of activity or movement daily, practice pelvic floor exercises such as kegels and bodyweight squats, and get adjusted to maximize you and your baby’s health potential.

How do you help pregnant women with breech pregnancies?

Chiropractic care can help realign the pelvis and relieve stress in the ligaments supporting the uterus. This technique is called the Webster technique and can allow baby to have more room to move in utero. This often allows the baby to turn in the proper position when it’s time to give birth.

How can chiropractic care help babies who struggle to nurse?

One of the most common areas of stress we see in babies is located in the neck.

Stress in this area can restrict proper neck motion which can make it difficult for an infant to get into the right position to have an optimal latch.

Innate Health Chiropractic 26580 N. Dixie Hwy., Ste. 101, Perrysburg 419-872-2255 getinnatehealth.com

Read more chiropractic tips from Dr. Goin online toledoparent.com

www.toledoparent.com • JULY/AUGUST 2021 •

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Things I Googled While Pregnant

When is the best time to start and end your maternity leave? We’ve done studies that show the longer you’re able to work before the birth, the more likely you are to take the pregnancy later into term. We know that it’s better for your body to get up every day and keep moving, doing the things you need to do versus being more sedentary. Your body is very easily deconditioned, so if you’re able to work up until your due date, that’s the best option. It really depends on how much time you have off and how you want to spend it that time.

Local expertise on common questions

By Erin Holden

Throughout pregnancy, sometimes it seems as if you can’t eat a meal, exert yourself in any way or do simple household tasks without Googling, “[Insert concern] while pregnant.” Now that I have my three-month-old little boy in my arms, I have even more things to Google!

I thought it would be insightful to scroll through my search history and take up some of these compulsive Googling sessions with one of my amazing OB-GYNs at Mercy Health, Dr. Kathleen Piazza. Talking with your doctor lends more clarity to these nuanced concerns than sifting through the unwieldy world of internet opinions.

How many calories should you consume in each trimester? You only need about 300 extra calories a day to support a healthy pregnancy.

For women that start their pregnancy at an unhealthy BMI— so say they’re considered class one obesity or class two obesity— it’s okay for them to

Mercy Health’s, Dr. Kathleen Piazza even lose weight in pregnancy versus gaining weight. No need to gain as much weight as somebody who was underweight prior to getting pregnant, for example.

How many corn dogs is it okay to eat per day while pregnant?

I’m afraid I overindulge with this one... the jury’s still out on that. I would say a corn dog probably doesn’t have as much nutritional value as a lot of other food choices, so I recommend everything in moderation, especially if that’s the only thing your body allows you to eat; some women have a lot of food aversions during their pregnancies.

To what extent do your organs shift throughout pregnancy?

Pretty much every internal organ in your abdomen is going to get shifted a bit because your uterus becomes significantly bigger. A normal uterus, outside of pregnancy, is a little bit smaller than your fist. You can imagine how big a uterus gets with a full size baby and how your body adjusts to accommodate that.

How to fight constipation while pregnant: I know a lot of people like to go towards Benefiber or Metamucil, but fiber is kind of tricky. If you’re not drinking enough water, fiber has the opposite response for your body, so I would try Miralax first.

What percentage of first-timemoms give birth before their due date? It’s rare to have moms deliver exactly on their due date. Unfortunately, women nowadays have more health problems than women did 50 years ago, so we do have a lot of medical reasons to deliver babies earlier than the 40 week mark— so a significantly higher percentage deliver before 40 weeks than after 40 weeks.

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Do I need to have a pediatrician picked out before the baby is born? There are lists of providers for you to pick from before the baby’s born; however, I would say most women are given that same list while they’re in the hospital after they’ve had the baby. Pediatricians who are accepting new patients are very good about getting babies in within their first week of life.

What do I need to bring to the hospital? Bring in a tablet or a computer to watch movies. Snacks and your own big water jug, that’s what I suggest before delivery.

Definitely bring comfortable pajamas.

If you plan to breastfeed, you want to have a comfortable nursing bra, maybe some bigger sanitary napkins. You might also want to bring your own shampoo, conditioner and toiletries that you prefer. Bring slippers, a bathrobe and a blanket. Then, of course, bring whatever baby clothes you want. They do provide diapers at the hospital, but if you want to use your own brand of diapers or certain brands of formula, onesies or an outfit to put the baby in, bring those items. You’ll definitely need the car seat for the baby to go home in as well.

Ronald McDon ald House Char ities of Northwest Ohi o provides free lodging and meals to families with children hospitalized in the Toledo area. Th e facility has 28 bedrooms and numerous common areas to accommodat e overnight gu ests and daytime visito rs.

Photos courtesy of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Ohio

Home Away from Home

Ronald McDonald House perseveres through pandemic with new programs

by Laurie Bertke

For nearly 40 years, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Ohio has been “keeping families close” with children hospitalized in the Toledo area.

Located adjacent to ProMedica Russell J. Ebeid Children’s Hospital, RMHC provides lodging, meals and a comfortable home away from home for families of children receiving care at any area medical facility. The charity’s 38,000 square-foot facility has 28 bedrooms and numerous common areas to accommodate overnight guests and daytime visitors-- a respite for families dealing with the stress, fear and anxiety of caring for a sick child.

Donation funding There is no charge for families to stay at the house, though some choose to “pay it forward” with a donation to cover the next family’s stay. “We’re 100 percent funded by donations,” notes Chad Bringman, RMHC executive director, adding, “There is no other funding source for the Ronald McDonald House here in Toledo.”

The house hosts hundreds of overnight guests annually, and its doors remained open throughout the pandemic. When occupancy limits were reduced to allow for social distancing,

RMHC of Northw est Ohio seeks to bring a new initia to Toledo. The m tive, Care Mobile obile clinic will br , ing medical care directly to childre n in the neighborhood s where they liv e.

RMHC arranged for some families to stay at local hotels. Volunteers were sent home, leaving operation of the house to a skeleton crew of staff members. “It really put a lot of burden on those folks,” Bringman says of the reduced staff.

“They did just an incredible job managing it for months.”

Local restaurants shared food and donors wrote checks to cover the cost of catering when volunteers were unable to prepare meals at the House.

“The community was just incredibly awesome to us through that period of time,” Bringman adds. “We never had to worry about where those funds were going to come from if we had to order food in.”

Mission is access to healthcare With restrictions lifted, RMHC has gradually opened its rooms and started welcoming smaller volunteer groups back to prepare meals for the families.

It recently reopened its hospitality suite at ProMedica Russell J. Ebeid Children’s Hospital, where families can find refreshments, support and information about services offered by RMHC. Bringman says the organization will also soon launch the Happy Wheels

, s lifting striction st Ohio e r h it e W f Northw RMHC o d welcoming te has star lunteer groups vo r r e ll a sm meals fo prepare back to s. ilie the fam

Cart program, which he describes as a “hospitality suite on wheels” offering similar services. The operation of the house itself is not the mission of RMHC, Bringman notes. ”It’s about access to healthcare and our ability to help folks that need it,” he explains.

A mobile clinic for Toledo A new initiative in the works, Care Mobile, would bring medical care directly to children in their own neighborhoods. Care Mobile vehicles already operate in about 35 cities in the United States. Pending approval of a grant submitted to the global office of RMHC, Bringman hopes to begin to operate the mobile clinic for Toledo soon so it can launch later this year. The global office would fund construction of the vehicle, at a cost of about $500,000.

Limited access to healthcare plays a role in the high infant mortality rate that exists in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan, Bringman explained. Care Mobile will help connect children with the healthcare system at a young age, with a particular focus on immunizations and wellness checks for children under three. The impact of such early interventions can make a huge difference in a child’s life.

Bringman encourages those interested in supporting Care Mobile and other programs of RMHC of Northwest Ohio to visit the organization’s website at rmhctoledo.org to make a donation or find current volunteer opportunities and wish lists.

www.toledoparent.com • JULY/AUGUST 2021 •

23

Katie Maskey, a local author, with Ferdinand, the main character of her children’s book Ferdinand with the Extra Toes, titled after her own polydactyl cat.

Teaching Kids to Embrace Differences Local author inspired by polydactyl cat

By Laurie Bertke

While spending more time than usual at home with her pets last spring, Katie Maskey found herself thinking that her cat Ferdinand would make a great children’s book character, given his unique, mitten-shaped paws.

Ferdinand is a polydactyl: a cat born with extra toes. Although the birth abnormality doesn’t hinder his abilities, it does set him apart. Eight extra toes between his front and back paws gives Ferdinand a distinct paw print and a little extra balance on the windowsills compared to other cats.

Imagining how her unique cat might inspire children who struggle to accept their own differences, Maskey delved into her first children’s book. The result of her “pandemic project” is Ferdinand with the Extra Toes, which hit local shelves last December.

Setting yourself apart The book tells the story of a shy-butcurious cat who learns his differences are what truly make him special. Just as a child might struggle with something that sets himself or herself apart from others, Ferdinand goes on a journey that teaches him to accept and embrace his differences. According to Maskey, through his adventures, everyone around Ferdinand learns to appreciate his unique qualities too.

Maskey, who works as product program manager for Girl Scouts of Western Ohio, grew up in Toledo and now lives in Lambertville, MI. She asked a friend, 24

• JULY/AUGUST 2021 • www.toledoparent.com

Ashley Thoreen of Piqua, to illustrate the story. Thoreen has a 10-year-old son with autism, and she brought her experiences in the special education realm as both a mother and parent mentor for her local school district to the project.

“It was a really great partnership,” says Maskey, noting that Thoreen considered imagery that captivated her son while designing some of the illustrations.

Pawtographed copies Maskey says she has received considerable positive feedback about the picture book and recommends Ferdinand’s story for early elementary grades, as well as a great read-along for younger children.

Ferdinand with the Extra Toes was self-published through Green Clover Books and links to purchase the book through Amazon or Etsy are available at greencloverbooks.com. Books purchased through Etsy are autographed by the author and “pawtographed” with a special stamp made from the real Ferdinand’s paw print.

The book is available locally for purchase at Bowinkles in Sylvania and Ragazza Boutique in Perrysburg. Maskey is working on a second book with a new adventure for Ferdinand, which she hopes to publish later this year.

healthy kids

Back to the Land

How gardening brings families together

By Laurie Bertke

Hands-on lessons The benefits of gardening with children are endless, according to Hannah Halfhill, education coordinator for Toledo GROWs, a nonprofit which supports the development of community-based gardens in Toledo and the surrounding area. “Taking kids into the garden is the best,” she says. “Especially kids who have not gardened before, because seeing them realize where their food comes from is equally hilarious and rewarding.”

It’s never too early to introduce children to gardening, according to Halfhill.

An infant benefits from the fresh air and sunshine, while a two-year-old might appreciate the textures and colors of the plants. A fifth-grader can observe the life cycles and biology of the plants. “So there’s really not an age limit to gardening with kids,” explains Halfhill.

In the garden, she says, kids learn about healthy eating and science while partaking in physical activities. They experience disappointment when the plants don’t grow, and joy when they do. And of course, when things go well, they ultimately get to enjoy sampling the harvest.

Getting started Halfhill’s biggest piece of advice for families looking to get into gardening?

Start small.

“The biggest issue we find when people are starting a garden is that they dream really big,” she says. “That’s fantastic, but if you make it so big that you can’t manage it, eventually you get tired of it. Everything dies, you get discouraged and you may never garden again.”

Rather than carving out an acre of land, try starting with some containers or a small raised bed.

Herbs are a good choice for first-time gardeners, Halfhill suggests, because they are resilient and grow easily in pots. Root vegetables such as carrots or beets are another favorite of hers to grow with children because the plants grow mostly underground, so kids are always amazed when they are revealed at harvest time. Themed gardens can also be fun, such as a pizza garden, a salsa garden or a rainbow garden filled with colorful crops.

For older children, it’s important to stay enthusiastic and avoid turning the garden into a chore, Halfhill says.

Older kids might even enjoy relating the garden to concepts in popular worldbuilding video games like Minecraft, Animal Crossing and Stardew Valley.

Limited costs The costs to get started can be minimal. The essentials include containers or wood for a raised bed, a quality topsoil compost mix and seeds. Often people think they need to purchase a variety of tools, but on a budget you can weed the garden easily by hand, and water using a hose or a container.

Normally Toledo GROWs distributes thousands of free seeds to the public at its annual Seed Swap, but the event was cancelled this year due to COVID-19 restrictions. Instead, the organization is sharing tip sheets, videos and gardening activity ideas for families in a virtual version of the event through its website and social media.

Samantha Bertke, six, of Toledo, proudly shows off a handful of beets harvested from the garden.

Many families found joy growing food in their backyards for the first time last year while spending more time at home during the pandemic.

Photo courtesy of Toledo Grows

Stay-at-home orders and grocery shortages sparked an unprecedented surge in home gardening last spring, motivating many families to find joy growing food in their backyards for the first time. One year later, most people are still spending more time at home, and now during summer, gardening remains a safe and fun activity to enjoy with children of any age.

Showing children where their food comes from is one of Hannah Halfhill’s favorite parts of her job as education coordinator at Toledo Grows.

Visit toledogrows.org for more information, or visit kidsgardening.org for more gardening ideas for children.

WINNER FIRST PLACE

• 1st Place - Kids Art Class RUNNER UP

• 2nd Place - Kid-Friendly Museum www.toledoparent.com • JULY/AUGUST 2021 •

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ParentProfile, with Maci’s dad, Jason Smithers What’s your favorite activity to do with your family?

We love the Toledo parks on beautiful days, going to local game rooms like Old School Gaming or staying in together playing video games.

What is your favorite book to read to your kids?

Our youngest loves The Boxcar Children series. Any interactive books like Press Here by Herve Tullet are always great!

Best memory from when you were a kid?

I miss the Super Cinemas that used to be on Airport Hwy. As a broke teenager in the 90s, $1 for a movie was pretty amazing.

What’s your go-to activity when you have a few minutes to yourself?

I love to keep my mind challenged. I really enjoy collecting sequential discovery puzzles by designers like Wil Strijbos, Eric Fuller and Felix Uri and the challenge/surprise they bring with them.

Describe your life in five words or less.

Working on raising good people.

Ally Lancaster and The Enchanted Fortress

What is your favorite Toledo hangout?

Toledo has a lot of great local game rooms that I encourage everyone to support. Toledo Game Room and Old School Gaming are fantastic and very helpful in getting the whole family excited about table-top and role-playing.

Describe Toledo in a sentence.

From someone like me who has moved away and come back, it’s even better the second time around.

11-year-old Maci Smithers publishes her latest novella

By Emily Remaklus

When COVID shut down schools, many students scrambled to find something to occupy their time. Some turned to video games or watching movies, but for one local girl, the extra time was spent finishing and publishing her third book.

Get to know Ally 11-year-old Maci Smithers just finished the fifth grade at Hull Prairie Intermediate in Perrysburg. Her favorite subjects are reading and science, and she loves dogs. “I will always include a dog in the books I write!” she says. In her latest publication, one of the main characters, a dog named Aristar, is inspired by Maci’s own dog Sam. This latest publication is her first novella and is titled Ally Lancaster and The Enchanted Fortress.

The story centers around Ally, a young girl who is not a fan of the school her parents have forced her to attend.

As a result, Ally tries to get herself expelled, but things take a turn when she comes face-to-face with a Dueling Dog (a massive black dog with giant wings) named Aristar, whom she soon befriends. Aristar takes her to a new school called Willow Reins where she learns how to duel, but also learns that it is up to her to save the world from the evil Zortavka and the dangers within the Enchanted Fortress.

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Maci’s writing process Maci was inspired by many stories, including the Harry Potter series and

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The Hunger Games books, but the main inspiration was her dad. “I was inspired by his books, and decided that I wanted to make my own,” says Maci. “He told me that if I could do every step of the writing process, then I could publish a book.”

Her dad, Jason Smithers, helped Maci learn the writing process. “People may think that only adults can write books, but my dad helped me learn the writing process, and anyone can do it if they try,” says Maci, who explains that the process for this story started with an idea which was then turned into a storyboard. Once the storyboard was completed, she began the first draft which she finished during quarantine.

Maci’s favorite part of writing is developing the characters and being able to give each of them their own personalities. She claimed that the hardest part, and least fun, was the editing process.

“I had to go back and fix a bunch of different mistakes, which were sometimes really hard,” she says. After the grueling editing process, she was finally able to format the book and upload it to be published.

When asked if she would like to continue writing in the future, Maci explains, “I love writing. I would love to be able to write stories as a career.” And it looks like she is on the fast track to making that dream come true. Currently, Maci is working on her next book— a sequel to Ally Lancaster.

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The VI in Sylvania: Fresh Decor Plus Cameo Pizza A Sylvania mainstay has been upgraded, and it’s a hit.

By Erin Schoen Marsh

THE VI

4984 N. Holland Sylvania Rd. Mon. to Thurs. 3PM-12AM | Fri. & Sat. 11:30AM-1AM | Sun. 11:30AM-12AM thevisylvania.com With mask mandates lifted for those fully vaccinated, Ohioans and restaurants are bustling once again. Just as newly-opened restaurants must find their rhythm, restaurants post-COVID are doing the same. While the last year was a tough one for many businesses, it was especially brutal for restaurants.

The restaurant industry lost many jobs

during the pandemic and now faces a new challenge— finding enough workers.

A new pizza fave for the kiddos We arrived at The VI during prime dinner time on a weekend, and the entire restaurant was full, both indoors and outside. The hostess requested we wait outside or in our car to maintain social distancing. She called us and seated us within the 20-minute wait time that she had projected.

Once we were at a table, it was clear that our young waitress was spread thin, but she was cheery and accommodating.

I asked for her appetizer recommendations, and without hesitation she said the pickle bread was the most popular. I had heard the same recommendation from others, so we ordered it to share.

Our drinks arrived after a time, but we never received the pickle bread. Our waitress was nowhere to be found, presumably running from one customer to the next, so when our meals arrived after nearly an hour’s wait, we didn’t mention the pickle bread Both kids ordered the Cameo pizza as we’d heard rave reviews. Since our son is lactose intolerant, we requested his pepperoni pizza without cheese, specifying that we wanted just sauce and pepperoni. Another server delivered our food, and both kids’ pizzas arrived with cheese. We alerted them of the mistake, and they put a rush on a replacement pizza— thankfully, they brought him a plate of fries to munch on in the meantime.

I ordered the chicken club sand-wedge — chicken, bacon, Cameo cheese and LTO (lettuce, tomato, onion) sandwiched between the Cameo family pizza crust— and a side of fries. It was a hearty sandwich, providing me with leftovers for lunch the following day. Alex ordered the American smash burger, which tasted thoroughly homemade and fresh off the grill. He upgraded to the tater tots, but after trying my fries, he regretted the choice, wishing he had stuck with the fries.

Camille, our five-year-old, devoured her pizza and happily exclaimed that it ranked as her new “#1 pizza!” Dexter (8) didn’t receive his pizza until we had all finished our meals, so we packed his to go, but he was equally happy with his Cameo crust covered in sauce and pepperoni.

A rich Sylvania history After The Village Inn closed in January of 2018 due to health code violations, the owners of Bar 145 bought it with the plan to make it a “neighborhood sports bar,” according to co-owner Jer-

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The Short Course Outdoor dining: Yes. Online ordering: Yes. Carryout: Yes. Delivery: Deliver Toledo, Slice, Doordash.

Kids’ Menu: Yes.

emy Fitzgerald. The new VI is decidedly more open than the former Village Inn, and the modern decor includes brick and oak with a dozen TVs gracing the walls.

Sylvania residents were invited to drop off photos and memorabilia to adorn the walls of The VI, as an ode to Sylvania schools, where Fitzgerald’s children attend. Co-owners Andy Grombacher and George Simon are also Sylvania residents, making The VI truly a local Sylvania spot.

Perfect for summer weather, the outside patio is stunning with a new bar, ample seating and plenty of umbrellas to create a perfect casual outdoor dining experience.

The arrival of Cameo Pizza was much anticipated, as it won awards at the 2019 Pizza Palooza at Sylvania’s Centennial Terrace. Cameo Pizza originated in Sandusky where the beloved family pizza recipe, handed down for generations, is a crowd pleaser—even with picky young eaters.

Bottom Line:

The VI is a Sylvania sports bar known for its history, fresh remodel, outdoor patio experience and Cameo pizza. While we experienced a few hiccups during our dining experience, these will all surely be ironed out once restaurants are fully staffed. The authentically delicious pizza was a hit with our family. We plan to order takeout from The VI soon, and we suggest you do the same!

CALENDAR JULY THURSDAY 1

Sunset Lavender Yoga - Enjoy a one-hour yoga class between rows of lavender in bloom. Bring your mat, insect/ sun protection, and scissor/shears for lavender. $12. 7:30-9pm. Pemberville, 19587 Luckey Road. luckeylavender.com

FRIDAY 2 4th Annual Red White & Boogie Enjoy live music, art, and camping at the Sanctuary with this three day event.

Fireworks on Saturday. Noon-11pm.

Grand Rapids, 24401 Poe Rd. Search “Red, White and Boogie” on Facebook.

Free

SATURDAY 3 Dance Fitness with Cari - Join a judgement-free, in-person dance fitness class with Cari Olman. Bring appropriate clothes, a yoga mat, and water. $8.

9:00-10:00am. 2121 S. Reynolds Rd. 419-944-9292. coachcario.com

SUNDAY 4 Starr Spangled 5k - Buy tickets for the 28th Annual Starr Spangled 5k at Starr Elementary, a Toledo-area 4th of July tradition. $17. 8am-noon. Oregon, 3230 Starr Ave. runsignup.com Mudd BBQ Battle - Glaze’Em Gourmet Funnel Cakes hosts the Mudd BBQ Battle.

Enjoy BBQ and funnel cakes at the Toledo Farmers Market. 3-8pm. 525 Market St. Search “Mudd BBQ Battle” on Facebook.

Free

THURSDAY 8 Movie in the Park: “Jumanji” at Navarre Park - Enjoy a movie in the park Bring blankets and lawn chairs. 7:309pm. 1001 White St. Search “Movie in the Park” on Facebook. Free

8th Annual Autism Awareness Car Show - Car show with raffle and food trucks. Money raised goes to the Northwest Ohio Autism Society.

10am-2pm. 5702 Monroe St. Search “Autism Awareness Car Show” on Facebook. Free

TUESDAY 13 Lucas County Fair - After a muted version of the Fair in 2020, the Lucas County Fairgrounds looks will to form this July. The week-long extravaganza will features rides, merchants, animal shows and more great fairground foods than you can shake a corn dog at. July 13-18.

Lucas County Fairgrounds, 1406 Key St., Maumee. 419-893-2127. lucascountyfair.com

FoLCD Run for Rescues Friends of Lucas County Dogs 5k run/walk to fundraise shelter purchases and medical supplies for rescue dogs. $35. 9-11am.

Oregon, 761 Lallendorf Rd. runsignup. com/Race/OH/Oregon/RunForRescues Christmas in July Craft Fair & Marketplace - Indoor and outdoor fair of 60+ crafters/vendors + food trucks.

Donation suggested. 10am-5pm. Holland, 7112 Angola Rd. 419-865-9767. proclaimfm.com

Free Youth Football Camp Students ages 8-14 can compete and develop lifelong skills at this youth football camp featuring Cleveland Browns coach Brandon Lynch. 1-3pm. 2550 Cherry St. Search “Free Youth Football Camp” on Facebook. Free

Movie in the Park: ”Tom & Jerry” at Joe E. Brown Park - Bring blankets and lawn chairs. 7:30-9:30pm. 150 W. Oakland St. Search “Movie in the Park” on Facebook. Free

PetMassage for Dog Day The PetMassage Training and Research Institute recognizes PetMassage for Dog Day. Bring your dog for a massage. 2950 Douglas Road.

419-450-1106. petmassage.com/other/ petmassage-dogs-day-july-11th

Pizza Palooza at Centennial Terrace - Enjoy live music, kids activities, and delicious pizza. 4:00-11:00pm.

Sylvania, 5773 Centennial Road. Search “Pizza Palooza” on Facebook. Free

SATURDAY 31 Rock the Bald for Children’s Cancer Virtual event to raise money for childhood cancer research worldwide. Donation suggested. 11am-noon. Online. stbaldricks.org

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

toledoparent.com CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

Nature Discovery Day with Girl Scouts at Independence Dam State Park - Join in the fun at Nature Discovery Day! Family scavenger hunt and other activities by Girl Scout staff/ volunteers for girls of all ages and their caregivers. 4-6pm. 27722 County Rd. 424, Defiance. 419-887-9481. eventbrite.com. Free

SATURDAY 10

SUNDAY 11

Are you a frequent Farmers Market shopper? Downtown Fremont might just be your new favorite! Along with having one of the area’s largest farmers markets, downtown Fremont has added additional attractions with fun, family-friendly activities—think scavenger hunts—for all ages.

On August 21, for example, the Market will host its Things That Go event, featuring big vehicles! The Market is held from 9am-1pm on July 17, August 7, and August 21. 315 Garrison St., Fremont. 419-3328696. downtownfremontohio.org

SATURDAY 17

Family Movie Night: “Beauty and the Beast” - Family Movie Nights, by Paramount Advantage, features pre-event food trucks, fun, and COVID-19 vaccines.

5-9pm. Promenade Park, downtown along the river. Search “Family Movie Night” on Facebook. Free

Summer Outdoor Expo Shop from area vendors at this expo presented by The Social Butterfly featuring music, prizes, food trucks and more. 10am-5pm. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd., 419-3679765. Search “The Social Butterfly” on Facebook. Free

Things That Go in Fremont

THURSDAY 22

FRIDAY 23 Christmas in July at Toledo Zoo See lights, Santa, the Snow Queen and Princess Anna. Play dark mini golf and enjoy other festive activities. $12.

7-10pm. 2700 Broadway. toledozoo.org/christmasinjuly.

Free for zoo members.

FRIDAY 30 Northwest Ohio Rib Off Dozens of culinary masters create the most mouth-watering, fall-off-the-bone BBQ ribs all weekend for attendees to enjoy.

Look forward to a deliciously messy weekend! 4pm, July 30 through 7pm, August 1. 1406 Key St., Maumee.

419-724-6000. nworiboff.com

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SUNDAY 8 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29 Family Movie Night: “Cars” Family Movie Nights, by Paramount Advantage, feature pre-event food trucks, fun, and COVID-19 vaccines. 5-9pm.

Promenade Park, downtown along the river. Search “Family Movie Night” on Facebook. Free

AUGUST SUNDAY 1

Chicken Wars - Restaurants, chefs and food trucks will all compete to prove who is best in the area at cooking chicken!

3-8pm. 525 Market St., 419-392-6714.

Search “Chicken Wars” on Facebook.

Free

MONDAY 2 Outdoor Explorers Camp - Reserve a spot at this week-long camp for kids ages 5-7 at the Metroparks. Go on nature walks, play, craft, and appreciate nature. $160. 9am-1pm.

5110 W. Central Ave. Search “Outdoor Explorers Camp” on Facebook.

TUESDAY 3 Dance Fitness with Cari - Break the boundaries of traditional workouts with this women-only class. $8. 7pm. Also held Saturdays at 9am. Routines Dance Fitness Studio, 2121 S. Reynolds Rd. 419-9449292. coachcario.com

THURSDAY 5 Movie in the Park: “Sonic the Hedgehog” at Ottawa Park - Bring blankets and lawn chairs. 7:30-9:30pm.

2200 Kenwood. Search “Movie in the Park” on Facebook. Free

FRIDAY 6 Toledo Jeep Fest - This year’s event will feature the Jeep Parade, exhibits, a full vendor midway and the Jeep Fest 4-miler run. Friday, August 6 through Sunday, August 8. Downtown Toledo. toledojeepfest.com Free

SATURDAY 7 Island Green Week - Celebrate Put-inBay’s natural beauty, ecology, and history.

All day. Put-in-Bay. 1-800-500-2421. millerferry.com/event/island-green-week.

Free

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Hoodstock 2021 - This community event will see hundreds of sets of school supplies being given to children as they prepare for the coming school year. 11am-8pm. Savage Park, City Park Ave. facebook.com/TheHoodStockFoundation

THURSDAY 12 Throwback Movie Night - The classic Will Smith/Tommy Lee Jones comedy “Men in Black” will be screened. 5:30-9:30pm. Promenade Park, 400 Water St. Free

FRIDAY 13 Maumee Summer Fair - The fair comes back to the streets of uptown Maumee for a two day celebration of music, cars, crafts and more. Children will love the Kid’s Zone! 5pm-midnight, Friday, August 13. 9am-midnight, Saturday, August 14.

Uptown Maumee. maumeesummerfair.com

SATURDAY 14 Machines And Things - Experience vehicles and equipment of all sorts. All proceeds benefit Courageous Community Services and Nature’s Nursery. 9am-1pm.

Fallen Timbers Lane and Russell Road. Search “Machines and Things” on Facebook. Free

THURSDAYS 11m-1pm through the end of September Take the kids on a Maumee River adventure aboard the Sandpiper and enjoy a tasty lunch from Superior Catering! Soak up the sun while you take in views of downtown Toledo, beautiful riverside homes, wildlife and many other sights from a new perspective. The hearty lunch options include vegetarian and glutenfree selections aboard the cruise vessel, which departs on its two-hour excursions every Thursday from 11am-1pm through the end of September. $21-$28. 1 Jefferson Ave. 419-537-1212. sandpiperboat.com

HIDDEN PICTURES

Family Movie Night: “Aladdin” ProMedica’s Family Movie Nights, by Paramount Advantage, features pre-event food trucks, fun, and COVID-19 vaccines.

5-9pm. Promenade Park, downtown along the river. Search “Family Movie Night” on Facebook. Free Barrio Latino Art Festival - This festival is full of live music, dancing, food, artwork on display, recognition award to an artist, crafts and many other special performances.

2-11pm. Nuestra Gente Community Center, 1411 Broadway St. 567-702-0040. nuestragentecommunityprojects.org

THURSDAY 19 Movie in the Park: “My Spy” at Inez Nash Park - Bring blankets and lawn chairs. 7:30-9:30pm. 206 E. Bancroft St. Search “Movie in the Park” on Facebook.

Free

SUNDAY 22 Drone Golf Ball Drop Fundraiser Play golf with balls dropped from a Toledo Aerial Media drone. Prizes vary on distance from hole and proceeds support educational programs, exhibits, and collections. $15. 3-5pm.

Wood County Museum, 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green Search “Drone Golf Ball Drop Fundraiser” on Facebook.

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Can you find and color all of the hidden images in this fun, summer picture?

Country BBQ Fundraiser and Dance - It’ll be a delicious and raucous afternoon at Highland Meadows Golf Club, all for the benefit of the Toledo Northwestern Ohio Food Bank. $60 per person. 2-6pm. 7455 Erie St., Sylvania.

419-862-7153. toledofoodbank.org

TUESDAY 24 Cork and Pork: A Ronald McDonald House Fundraiser - Join in person at The Venues for music, food, and drinks.

6-10pm. 540 S. St. Clair St. $45. Search for “Cork and Pork” on Facebook.

marketplace FOR RENT FLEXIBLE STAY STUDIOS – Toledo Siegel Suites, 6106 Trust Drive, Holland, OH Beautifully fully furnished Studios. Pet friendly w/ FREE utilities and Free cable.

No lease, No Credit Check Required.Earn free days with our REWARDS program.

Call now. 419-540-9029

HELP WANTED

THURSDAY 26 German American Festival - Toledo’s oldest and largest ethnic festival returns with a full slate of entertainment, music, folk dancing and authentic German food. VIP Event, Thursday, August 26.

4pm-1am, Friday, August 27. Noon1am, Saturday, August 28. Noon-11pm, Sunday, August 29. Oak Shade Grove, 3624 Seaman Rd., Oregon. facebook. com/GAFSociety

FRIDAY 27 Midwest Tejano y Mexicano Fest Features top musical acts from the Tejano and regional Mexican music scene, at the Stranahan Theater for a three-day festival. $18-$58. 3-11:30pm.

4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. Search “Midwest Tejano y Mexicano Fest” on Facebook. Free

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