11/17 - Toledo Area Parent

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Celebrating 25 years

FREE NOVEMBER 2017

special NEEDS RESOURCE GUIDE

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Internet Bullies

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Overcoming obstacles and learning from the community

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• November 2017 • www.toledoparent.com

Ask For Aaron Misthal Family Law Attorney

Toledo’s Award-Winning Parent Newspaper Volume 25 • Issue 11 • November 2017

November

giveaway

[special features]

special NEEDS

Local resources ready to help families

10

departments community snapshots 5

what’s briefly happening

6

new kids

7

exceptional families 8 tween the lines 9 parent profile 19 healthy kids 20 my family, my way 22 calendar 25 marketplace

27

commentary

OPEN HOUSE GUIDE

II

Tour area schools to find the perfect one for your student

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Online in November

Teaching Kids About Kindness: Small Gestures to Put Smiles on Peoples Faces

Who doesn’t love playing a game with the family during the holidays? We’re giving away fun games suitable for kids of all ages. Little ones ages 2-4 will have a farm-tastic time playing Educational Insight’s Peekaboo Barn Game.

For those 5 and up, it’ll be fun to practice sight words with the Learning Resources Sight Words Swat! And for the bigger kids, The Purple Cows 60 Seconds What’s Your Story? empowers players to create and tell a story inspired by theme cards. Three lucky readers will each win one game. For your chance to win, enter at toledoparent.com.

By Kimberly Blaker In today’s world, we could all practice more kindness. November 13 is World Kindness Day. Here’s a list of simple things the whole family can do to make the world a kinder, more gentle place.

[Always online]

Amazing Gray 14

A little boy battling against the odds— his story provides hope and inspiration. — by Heidi Borst

OCTOBER WINNER

Congratulations to Lisa Mulligan, winner of the Real Cooking Princess Cakes Deluxe Baking set.

food fight 24

Briarwood Cafe

A neighborhood cafe is a go-to when you need comfort food. — by Karen L. Zickes

Kids Eat Free

Get out of the kitchen and let someone else do the cooking. There are plenty of places around town where kids eat free. Check out our guide to find out which resturants offer daily deals. Blogs by local moms, for local moms, are at your fingertips. Relatable and hilarious reads online

toledoparent.com

On the cover

Sawyer, 2, Swanton

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

Join us and our 3,500+ followers for laughs, updates & parenting discussions. “Like” us on facebook.com/toledoareaparent

most read online 1. Halloween

Happenings 2. Open House Guide 3. Pediatric Dentists

www.toledoparent.com • November 2017 •

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Adams Street Publishing Co. What are you thankful for?

KIDS HOROSCOPE

October 23 November 22 By Kimmie Rose

Volunteers Needed! Needed! Volunteers Anyone can... we need you!

We need you for:

s Special Events s Adoption Events s Transportation s Truck Drivers s Office Volunteer s Cat Care Volunteer s & Crafters

volunteer@plannedpethood.org s plannedpethood.org

Your Scorpio child is wise, compassionate, and intuitive. Look into their eyes if you want to know what they are feeling, since as you know the eyes are the window of the soul. When you do you will experience their gentle nature, able to see you on all levels. This month their mind will be looking for ways to learn more and understand people. They will be full of questions, ready for answers and will want to find ways to understand the world around them. This is the perfect time to get a globe and spin it. Close your eyes with them and have them put their finger on it and learn about the country they picked. Explore the nature of the weather, language and culture. This a time when they will begin to see the world that exists far and near. It’s a good time to nurture the compassion they feel for every living being on the planet.

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) My Family.

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) kimchi.

Editorial

Assignment Editor Kimberly Feldkamp

(toledoparenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com) my family. Associate Editor Athena Cocoves (athena@adamsstreetpublishing.com) I’ll tell you once it gets taken away. Calendar Mara Kalinoski (calendar@adamsstreetpublishing.com) sunshine. Contributing Writers TiAnna Anderson, Kimberly Blaker, Heidi Borst, Kimberly Feldkamp, Carolyn Jabs, Erin Marsh, Judy Miller, Emily Remaklus, Kimmie Rose, Karen Zickes

Art/Production

Production Manager Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) my blackness. Senior Designer Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Coffee and Chocolate. Graphic Design Anita Tipton (atipton@adamsstreetpublishing.com) My FAMILY and My Health. Kelli Miller (kmiller@adamsstreetpublishing.com) TACOS.

Advertising

Sales Coordinator Jenny Leach (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) family. Classifieds Catherine Bohr (classifieds@adamsstreetpublishing.com) LIFE. Sales Bonnie Hunter (bhunter@adamsstreetpublishing.com) EVERYTHING. Kathleen Dewar (kdewar@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Holidays. Lindsay Greene (lgreene@adamsstreetpublishing.com) my dogs. Suzanne Bell (sbell@adamsstreetpublishing.com) A power greater than me! Brittany Stahl (bstahl@adamsstreetpublishing.com) God, my husband Jay, family and friends!

Administration

Accounting Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) My Family. Distribution Anne Harrington (distribution@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Freedom of Speech.

Digital

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.

We offer everything you need to set a perfect holiday table!

Libbey Outlet 205 South Erie Street, Toledo, OH 43604 (419) 254-5000 | retail.libbey.com 4

FIND LIKE AND FOL LOW US

• November 2017 • www.toledoparent.com

Tech Manager Saul Jacobs (saul@adamsstreetpublishing.com) catherine. Web Guru Ashley Boardman (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Having a college degree, my significant other, and being healthy!

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 © 2017 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without written permission of the publisher. Also publishers of:

Audited by

We’re always looking for great photos to fill our community snaps page! Send your favorite moments to production@adamsstreetpublishing.com

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www.toledoparent.com • November 2017 •

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Compiled by Kimberly Feldkamp

Help for new parents Are you a new or expectant parent who could use some help with needed baby items? Heartbeat of Toledo has you covered. Pat Todak, executive director of the pregnancy help center, explains, “For parents with an immediate need, we offer emergency diapers and formula.”

A newborn baby basket full of sleepers, onesies, outfits, blankets, diapers, a handmade quilt and more is provided along with classes about pregnancy, childbirth and parenting. Parents earn points each class they complete, to be used at the center’s baby boutique which stocks everything from diapers, formula and baby food to strollers, high chairs, car seats, toys and more. Heartbeat has two locations and each offers group and one-on-one parenting classes and has a baby boutique. For more information, call 419-241-9131 (Sylvania location) or 419-214-0768 (East Toledo location).

20 YEARS

Safe Routes to School The YMCA of Greater Toledo Live

Growing Stronger Together If your teen is looking for a non-team sport extracurricular activity, check out

the Teen Leaders Club at the Wolf Creek YMCA. Students in grades 7-12 volunteer their time and talents to help with events and programs at the Y in the community. It’s a great way for students to meet new people, provide service to the community and learn leadership and life skills. Meetings are the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 6:30pm in the Anderson Center (yellow building next to the Y) and all interested students are encouraged to show up. For more information, contact the Wolf Creek YMCA at 419-866-9622 or search for WolfCreekYTeens on Facebook.

Well program and the City of Toledo will receive a $710,000 grant from the the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) to support the Safe Routes to School Program throughout the city. $250,000 is earmarked to focus to upgrade crosswalks, improve sidewalks, install bike lanes and educate the community on safe active transportation. Live Well Greater Toledo and Safe Routes to School will receive $460,000 for projects and programs for students in the Toledo Public School District focusing on pedestrian and bicycle safety. To create a community that supports and enhances safe walking and biking to school on the 6 E’s— engineering, enforcement, evaluation, education, encouragement and equity— to make the trip to and from school more safe and sustainable.

Congrats on 20 years! Toledo Area Parent congratulates

New Bedford Academy on it’s 20th anniversary! They K-8 Michigan Public School Academy based in Lambertville focuses on ability-based instruction. “Ability-based instruction is truly what sets our school apart from other public schools,” said Principal Greg Sauter. “Our approach permits all students to be challenged and successful. Students achieving above grade level are offered advanced instruction.” The Academy uses multi-age classrooms where students of varying ages can collaborate. Students develop at their own rate, tutor others, and interact with other students to learn more or to set up a tour, call 734-854-5437.

American Academy of Martial Arts/Judan Judo Fall Classes Forming Now! Tue. & Thur. 6-8pm & Sat. 10-12pm Ages 5 and up!

419.726.8388

JudanJudoToledo@gmail.com AmericanAcademyMartialArts.com

Bring this ad in and recieve 10% off your first 3 months membership 5020 Lewis Ave. #B, Toledo OH 43612 Corner of Lewis and Laskey 6

• November 2017 • www.toledoparent.com

Come have fun with us!

Head of the Class

Maumee Valley Country Day School will have a new head of school next year. Lynn Casto has been appointed Maumee Valley’s Head of School, effective July 1, 2018. Lynn comes to Maumee Valley from the Sanford School in Hockessin Delaware, where she has served as upper school head since 2013. Casto brings an impressive background in independent school education. She taught and coached at the Brookwood School in Georgia and at Charlotte Country Day School in North Carolina. Maumee Valley’s vision of a personal, experiential, and global education resonates with Casto. “I love the student-centered focus of the school. That’s originally what drew me to MV. It’s a place where each child can define his or her passion, discover it, and explore it,” Casto said.

More than 33,000 children live in poverty and are hungry daily in the Toledo area; there has never been a more important time to engage the public on the issue of hunger. To more fully reflect our mission and unite Northwest Ohioans in the fight against childhood hunger, Feed Lucas County Children has adopted a new name, Connecting Kids to Meals. As Northwest Ohio’s leading child hunger-relief charity it is our responsibility, with your help, to erase hunger for the youth in our community.

Healthy eating made easy

A new restaurant is making it easy to get fresh, healthy food when you may not have time to make it yourself. CoreLife Eatery, now open on Monroe Street west of Talmadge, features clean, tasty foods free of GMOs, trans fat, artificial colors, sweeteners and other additives. Plus, all items are gluten free. CoreLife Eatery believes the food you eat affects the way you look, feel and how you perform, so they bring healthy food to everyone, every day. They make food from scratch daily, including hearty bowls with greens, grains and bone broths. Prices start at $5.95. 5231 Monroe Street, Suite C, Toledo. 419-540-0416

For more information about Connecting Kids to Meals and to find out how you can help contact us at (419)720-1106 or visit our website:

www.connectingkidstomeals.org

New to the zoo

There are several new cute faces to check out the next time you’re at the Toledo Zoo. A new female snow leopard cub is now on the prowl. Born in June, Dariga is healthy and bonded well with her parents. In addition to Dariga, the zoo also welcomed three female cougar cubs recently orphaned because of human-wildlife conflict. The cubs came to Toledo from Washington state. Right now you can see the cubs each day during veterinarian supervised bottle feedings near the indoor viewing of the elephants on Tembo Trail. Times and availability vary, visit toledozoo.org for the schedule.

TSA Welcomes New Principal

Michelle Hiser, Toledo School for the Arts’ new principal, came to TSA with an extensive background as both a teacher and a principal. Working in both rural and urban environments, Hiser has always strived towards creating a school environment where students can explore a wide variety of opportunities. This value, shared by many at Toledo School for the Arts, is what drew her to the school. “I am extremely excited and honored to join the TSA family! Thank you to everyone who has welcomed my family and me as we transitioned to Toledo. I look forward to building a partnership with the TSA families as well as the greater Toledo Community.”

www.toledoparent.com • November 2017 •

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Football Fun for Everyone

Toledo Crash focuses on awareness and community By Emily Remaklus

“Did you catch that game last weekend?” It’s the classic water cooler conversation, and for many men (and women) football is a favorite pastime. However, for people with disabilities, participating in football has been a rare opportunity. That’s where The Toledo Crash Football Team comes in.

Changing society’s perspective

Head of the Class Local educators at the top of their field

Toledo Crash is a local integrated wheelchair football team dedicated to building community and increasing awareness. “Besides having the goal of building an inclusive team, what I hope to leave behind during my time with the Toledo Crash is to change the societal perspective of what it means to be a disabled athlete,” said Nick Hyndman, Toledo Crash quarterback. The team focuses on creating opportunities for all sports enthusiasts, those with or without disabilities, to come together to play football. Opportunities bring together athletes of all ability levels. Opponents include local teams of players with and without disabilities. Toledo Crash’s opponents include a variety of organizations in the area including Toledo Reign— a female football team, Toledo Thunder— a minor league team, and college teams from Owens Community College and The University of Toledo. While the opposing teams are often made up of players without disabilities, Toledo Crash is integrated, which means anyone is welcome to play on the team.

Ensuring equal competition

Issue Date: JAN. 1st, Reserve By DEC. 15th RESERVE SPACE NOW!! Call 419-244-9859 or Email Sales@AdamsStreetPublishing.com 8

Toledo Crash is open to teens and adults. Players are classified based on their varied abilities. Rules are created to ensure equal competition. There are three primary levels of classification. Level 1 players are those with fully functioning arms, hands, and eyes; these players

• November 2017 • www.toledoparent.com

may include paraplegics, amputees, and non-disabled players. Level 2 players are those with limited arm and hand movement, such as quadriplegics, and those who are visually impaired. Level 3 players have minimal to no arm movements or are blind. When a teammate is blind, a noise-making device like a beeping football and portable radios on wheelchairs can be used. Rules are adapted according to the different player levels. For instance, Level 1 players are required to catch and hold onto the ball, whereas a Level 2 player is required to gain possession by touching the ball, but then is able to “run” without the ball in their hand. A Level 3 player would need to have the ball touch them above the waist and then they can “run” without the ball. Although some rules are predetermined, many aspects of the game are agreed upon by the two teams. The timing of the game, the physical contact level, and number of players can vary depending on what the teams agree to.

Recruiting players

As the game is played in wheelchairs, a standard football field is not plausible, so instead the game is played on a basketball court. Toledo Crash usually plays and practices on the UT rec center’s court or the YMCA’s court. This year’s practices began on October 11, and the first game took place on October 22 against the UT fraternity Alpha Sigma Phi. Although the season is currently underway, Toledo Crash is always looking to recruit new players, and is also looking for groups or organizations who would like to play against Toledo Crash. If interested, please contact The Ability Center of Greater Toledo, 419-885-5733, or visit abilitycenter.org.

tween the lines

advice for parents with children 10-16

13 Reasons Why Not Discussing teenage suicide By Erin Marsh

One of the biggest fears for most parents— maybe all parents— is losing a child. We worry about choking, drowning, freak injuries, car accidents, but we typically don’t consider suicide as an impending danger. Suicide is rare overall, but for those under 24 years of age, suicide is the No. 2 cause of death after unintentional injury. Researchers speculate that, because teenagers and young adults are generally healthy, rarely dying of disease, accidents and suicide become leading causes of death. Death is never an easy reality, and suicide comes with added baggage. Michael Kimball, doctor of clinical psychology at Center for Healing Connections in Monroe, MI., sums it up candidly: “The biggest message in suicide is ‘f**k you.’” He clarifies, “[Suicidal people are] people who are angry, who are depressed. Depressed individuals tend to have quite a bit of anger. According to Freud, depression is anger directed at self.”

“It’s not one incident; it’s a collection of things— beliefs about self and beliefs about others and the world.” Jennifer Nagy, counselor at Ottawa Hills Jr/Sr High school, expresses a similar viewpoint: “My issue with a show like 13 Reasons Why is that it dramatizes and simplifies a very serious and complex issue. When a person is thinking of suicide or self-harm, it is not usually occurring in a vacuum. In my experience, there is a history of prior trauma or other troubling events in that person’s life. While bullying can definitely be a culminating factor, there are usually other experiences prior to that event.” “With that said, I believe it is super important for everyone, students and adults, to really think about how they are treating other people,” Nagy continues. “It might sound cliché, but it’s so true that no one ever really knows what someone else is going through or has gone through. To be a kind and caring person in someone’s life can be very powerful — a reason for that person to look at life differently and to ask for help.”

“Suicide is not one incident; it’s a collection of things— beliefs about self, others, and the world.”

The whole picture

Blame for the increase in teenage suicide focuses on bullying, with Netflix’s 13 Reasons Why solidifying this belief. Kimball disagrees with this simplification. “Suicide is commonly portrayed in isolation or in response to bullying. When you look at the whole picture, that’s not it. When a kid has a solid foundation— strong family support with good communication skills and a good rapport with parents— suicide doesn’t happen…. If [the parents] were as perfect as they were portrayed in that show, the girl would have never killed herself.” “Suicide is not something that happens overnight,” Kimball expounds.

Importance of discussion

One mother, who wishes to remain anonymous to protect her son, faced her own worst fears. Her 16-year-old son admitted to her and her husband that he was having suicidal thoughts after a difficult breakup with his girlfriend. The mother shares, “You don’t know if they’ll do it or not...there are so many people who do it. I really think suicide needs to be discussed; kids need to have an outlet. What if they can’t talk to their parents? They need someone to talk to.”

She continues, “You don’t get a manual men, specifically white men, are the as a parent; you don’t know how to act. I highest subcategory affected by suicide. Kimball theorizes as to why this is the immediately told our doctor— I needed to talk to someone— and I emailed all of case. “They’re often divorced, and men his teachers. [My husband and I] broke do not do well with divorce. They start down and cried and told him we could to experience loss, and they don’t do well with loss.” never live without him.” Kimball clarifies, “Anecdotally, as we “We told him he had to think of everyone. Suicide affects the whole family. get older, our emotional issues come to We told him he could tell us anything; the forefront. A lot of the damage is done we would never judge him. Boys are so before we’re 8. Maybe we get a nonverhard because they don’t talk, and he’s a bal ‘Don’t be’ or ‘Don’t exist’ from our clone of his father who does not like to parents. You could be the fifth kid and express his feelings. You can’t bottle it up they only wanted four, or the parents are [inadvertently] blaming their kids for though...you have to talk about it.” Katie Vogt, social studies teacher at their financial hardship.” “Once that’s imparted, that’s what Springfield High School, also believes discussion is important. “I tend to be people are acting out, the idea that afraid to mention the word suicide, but ‘There’s no place in this world for me….’ after learning more about it, I try to use Smoking, reckless driving, drinking and my sociology class and Teen PEP (Peers driving— those are all suicidal behavEducating Peers) as a resource for stu- iors. They are acting out the same mesdents to learn what to notice in someone sage: don’t exist,” Kimball says. who might need help. I think our general fear of talking about suicide can have If someone you love needs help, here are negative effects,” Vogt says. some options: Nagy reiterates the importance of speaking up: “If other students are concerned that a classmate might be thinking about suicide, the best thing they can do is to tell an adult. It can be their parents, their school counselor, a teacher— it’s just important that they not keep it a secret or feel like they Contact the Lucas County Suicide need to take on helping the student by themselves. It is crucial Prevention Coalition, lucas-suithat they tell an adult that they cideprevention.org, or the National trust.” Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) While suicide is a one of the of Greater Toledo, namitoledo.org, leading causes of death for teenor call the National Suicide Hotline, agers and young adults, they are 800-273-TALK (8255). one of the smallest populations affected by suicide. Middle-aged

Visit the emergency room for assessment.

Access your medical insurance provider or primary care physician to refer therapists that can work with the family.

www.toledoparent.com • November 2017 •

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special NEEDS Amazing Gray

Ready Resources for Families As parents, we all want our children to be happy, loved and accepted. This is especially true for parents with children that have special needs. Here we’ve compiled stories of hope and resilience, along with local resources to help you and your family get the support you need to be the best version of yourself.

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Overcoming obstacles By Heidi Borst

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wo-year-old Grayson Ballard is, undeniably, a fighter. His journey has been nothing short of a battle. Diagnosed with a rare congenital heart defect, critical aortic stenosis with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), Grayson has endured four heart surgeries— the first, while still in his mother’s womb. And yet, the ferocity of this little boy’s strength continues to grow with every challenge he faces. At the beginning of her third trimester, Gray’s mother, Hanna Stuart, confronted a difficult reality: Grayson needed surgical intervention, now. Without it, he would not survive more than 15 minutes past birth. Twenty-nine weeks into the pregnancy, doctors at Mott’s Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor performed heart surgery on Grayson. A fetal heart specialist placed a stent into Grayson’s aortic valve, which was narrowed and causing an obstruction of blood flow to his tiny, 2.5-pound body. “I was prepared, mentally. I knew it was my choice to either terminate the pregnancy or fight a long battle, so I took the time to prepare myself and my family for the worst. God thought I was

strong enough for a broken heart, so I took on the challenge,� Stuart recalls.

Tough Beginnings

He was born on October 19, 2015, three hours after his birth, Grayson was taken for open-heart surgery. Doctors placed bands on his pulmonary arteries, helping his heart deliver blood to his body. “I was able to see him for about 20 minutes before the surgery, and directly after the surgery it was tough, but I knew I made the right choice and he was given to me for a reason,� Stuart says. Grayson persevered. “He was in the ICU for two weeks, and the night before he was scheduled to move over to general care he coded due to a high heart rate. It took them 30 minutes to get him back. I was there watching the whole time, and he came back fighting.�

An Uphill Battle

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, HLHS is a birth defect in which the left side of the heart does not form correctly, affecting normal blood flow. To rebuild his heart and facilitate proper blood flow to his lungs, Grayson would need three more open-

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• November 2017 • www.toledoparent.com

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heart surgeries. The first two stages of surgery were successfully performed at 4 months and 10 months of age. After the second surgery, and just shy of 1 year old, Grayson was at last healthy enough to go out in public. “He finally got to go to the store and see the park for the first time,” Stuart shares. “He started school a little after he turned 1.” Stuart admits each hospital stay is hard on Grayson. “He is very aware of everything that goes on. He’s deathly afraid of nurses and doctors and won’t let them touch him. He knows everyone who comes in with blue scrubs is going to do something with him.” Still, Stuart credits Grayson’s nurses with keeping her sane, acknowledging the incredible support system they provide. “I take it a day at a time. I have to be there for him. If he wasn’t as strong as he is I would probably lose it.”

Life of the Party

Despite it all, Grayson is a boy that loves life. “He is hands down the funniest kid I’ve ever met in my life. He’s

No doubt Grayson is a fighter. Each bead you see here represents a procedure he’s been through in his short life. Continued on p.12

the life of the party everywhere he goes. You wouldn’t know he was sick unless you saw his scars. He loves to play outside with his bikes and cars. His favorite thing to do with his brother is wrestle; they are silly together,” Stuart says, adding that 4-year-old Liam is Grayson’s No. 1 supporter. “Liam is crazy about him. He tells his friends at school that his brother has a broken heart. He is so proud of Grayson.”

You Got This, Grayson

Grayson will undergo one last phase of surgeries to reduce the work being done by the right side of his heart and allow his lungs to develop properly.

The procedure was postponed after Grayson contracted a cold at the hospital. Doctors decided to put off the surgery until the spring to allow him time to heal. For Stuart, Grayson’s journey has been an impetus to advocate public awareness of Congenital Heart Disease, the leading cause of infant death. In December, Grayson and his brother Liam will be taking a much-anticipated trip to Disneyland with their mother. From all of us at Toledo Parent, have a magical time! We are all rooting for you, Grayson.

Bright Horizons Advocacy & Consulting, LLC Join Bright Horizons’ advocates on Facebook Live or in person at neighborhood libraries for a discussion of Special Education Topics. Check out Bright Horizons Advocacy Facebook page for schedule.

UPCOMING TOPICS INCLUDE: UDifference between an IEP and a 504 Plan UÊ1 `iÀÃÌ> ` }ÊÌ iÊ ÌiÀÛi Ì Ê> `Ê Evaluation Processes UÊ >ÀÌiÀÊÃV Ã]Ê«À Û>ÌiÊÃV ÃÊ> `Ê UÊ1 `iÀÃÌ> ` }Ê" ½ÃÊëiV > Ê education scholarships UÊ* > }Êv ÀÊV i}iÊ ÀÊÜ À ÊÜ Ì Ê>Ê` Ã>L ÌÞ UÊ ÃV « iÊ, } ÌÃÊ vÊ-ÌÕ`i ÌÃÊ7 Ì Ê Ã>L Ì ià UÊ1 `iÀÃÌ> ` }Ê ÝÌi `i`Ê-V Ê9i>À UÊ VViÃà }Ê i iwÌÃÊ> `Ê Õ ÌÞÊ-iÀÛ ViÃ

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brighthorizonsadvcon.com www.toledoparent.com • November 2017 •

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VLJQLILFDQW SXEOLF KHDOWK SUREOHP WKDW DIIHFWV WKRXVDQGV RI \RXQJ SHRSOH HDFK GD\ &KLOGUHQ ZKR DUH EXOOLHG DUH PRUH OLNHO\ WR EH GHSUHVVHG ORQHO\ DQG DQ[LRXV KDYH ORZ VHOI HVWHHP IHHO XQZHOO DQG WKLQN DERXW VXLFLGH :LWK WKH By Judy Miller LQFUHDVH XVDJH RI VRFLDO PHGLD WKLV KDV DOORZHG I am hoarse from yelling. I can’t help My daughter does a flip turn at the other end of the pool. Screaming erupts myself. My girl, my child with special FKLOGUHQ WR EH EXOOLHG ZKHQ QRUPDOO\ WKH\ ZRXOG needs, has come so far and overcome so amongQRW 1RW RQO\ KDV WKH EXOO\ JRWWHQ LQWR WKH KHDGV teammates, competing teams, much. I am her biggest cheerleader. parents, and coaches as she and the RI WKH YLFWLP DW VFKRRO EXW QRZ WKH\ KDYH PDGH swimmer next to her break the water’s D MySULVRQHU LQ WKHLU KRPH NeverRZQ did I imagine thatWKURXJK I would have surfaceWKHP in unison. daughter rises a child with special needs. I imagined a higher,VRFLDO PHGLD DQG RWKHU ,QWHUQHW SODWIRUPV :KHQ her arms out wide before whipbrood of “normal� kids. I ventured into ping them forward to dive under the RQOLQH EXOO\LQJ RFFXUV parenting PRVW FKLOGUHQ ODFN WKH with prayers and dreams of surface again. SURSHU FRSLQJ VNLOOV QHFHVVDU\ perfection. WR KDQGOH WKLV

What My Child with Special Needs Has Taught Me

&KLOGUHQ ZKR DUH EXOOLHG DUH PRUH OLNHO\ WR EH GHSUHVVHG ORQHO\ DQG DQ[LRXV KDYH ORZ H.O.P.E. BULLYING PROJECT VHOI HVWHHP IHHO XQZHOO DQG WKLQN DERXW VXLFLGH By Beth’a El-Shamy, LSW, R.A.C.A :LWK WKH LQFUHDVH XVDJH RI VRFLDO PHGLD WKLV KDV Bullying, a form of youth violence, has become a DOORZHG FKLOGUHQ WR EH EXOOLHG ZKHQ QRUPDOO\ WKH\ significant public health problem that affects thousands ZRXOG QRW 1RW RQO\ KDV WKH EXOO\ JRWWHQ LQWR WKH of young people each day. Children who are bullied are more likely to be depressed, lonely, and anxious; have low KHDGV RI WKH YLFWLP DW VFKRRO EXW QRZ WKH\ KDYH self-esteem; feel unwell; and think about suicide. With the PDGH WKHP D SULVRQHU LQ WKHLU RZQ KRPH WKURXJK increase usage of social has allowed children VRFLDO PHGLD DQG media RWKHU thisLQWHUQHW SODWIRUPV to be bullied when normally they would not. Not only has 6RPH VLJQV RI EXOO\LQJ the bully gotten into the heads of the victim at school but

now ࢒ they/RVW RU GDPDJHG FORWKLQJ RU EHORQJLQJV have made them a prisoner in their own home through social media and other Internet platforms. When ࢒ &XWV EUXLVHV VFUDWFKHV RU XQH[SODLQHG online bullying occurs, most children lack the proper LQMXULHV coping skills necessary to handle this. ࢒ )HZ LI DQ\ IULHQGV HLWKHU DW VFKRRO RU Some signs of bullying: LQ WKH FRPPXQLW\

UĂŠ ࢒ Lost$SSHDUV DIUDLG RU DQ[LRXV DQG RXW RI WKH or damaged clothing or belongings RUGLQDU\ ORZ VHOI HVWHHP SRVVLEOH GURS UĂŠ Cuts, bruises, scratches or unexplained injuries. UĂŠ FewLQ JUDGHV if any friends either at school or in the ࢒community 5HIXVHV WR WDNH WKH EXV WR VFKRRO RU UĂŠ Appears afraid or anxious and out of the EHJLQV WR ZDON D GLIIHUHQW URXWH WR VFKRRO low self-esteem, possible drop in ࢒ordinary +DV ORVW VLJQLILFDQW LQWHUHVW LQ DFWLYLWLHV grades. WKDW KH VKH XVHG WR EH LQYROYHG LQ UĂŠ Refuses to take the bus to school or begins to ࢒walk'HWHQWLRQV RU VXVSHQVLRQ a different route to school. ࢒ 6HHPV VDG PRRG\ RU GHSUHVVHG ZKHQ UĂŠ Has lost significant interest in activities that he/ sheWKH\ FRPH KRPH IURP VFKRRO used to be involved in. UĂŠ ࢒ Detentions or suspension. 5XQV RXW RI OXQFK PRQH\ EHIRUH WKH\ ZRXOG W\SLFDOO\ UĂŠ Seems sad, moody or depressed when they home from school. ,QFUHDVH QXUVH YLVLWV ZLWK FRPSODLQWV RI ࢒come UĂŠ Runs out of lunch money before they would VWRPDFKDFKH KHDGDFKHV RU VRUH typically. WKURDWV UĂŠ Increase nurse visits with complaints of ,I \RX VXVSHFW \RXU FKLOG LV EHLQJ EXOOLHG =HSI stomachache, headaches or sore throats. &HQWHU¡V + 2 3 ( %XOO\LQJ 3URMHFW LV KHUH WR If KHOS you suspect your child bullied, Zepf Center’s &RQWDFW XV is DW being DQG H.O.P.E. Bullying Project is here to help! Contact us at RQOLQH DW ZZZ ]HSIFHQWHU RUJ IRU PRUH (419) 841-7701 and online at www.zepfcenter.org for LQIRUPDWLRQ =HSI &HQWHU¡V more information DERXW about Zepf Center’s HOPE +23( Bullying %XOO\LQJ SURMHFW /HW XV KHOS \RXU FKLOG Project. Let us help your child and family stop, healDQG and IDPLO\ bullying! VWRS KHDO DQG FRQTXHU EXOO\LQJ conquer

Phone:(419) 419-841-7701 Phone: 841-7701

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Please don’t judge me. I am being honest here. Special needs was a wild card, an unfamiliar and distressing spectrum of unknown territory. Special needs frightened me. Additionally, I was sure I did not have it in me to parent a child with special needs. Granted, I had no idea what it might take. As it would happen, I would parent three with special needs. But this child— my third of four, our swimmer— would be the one to bring me to my knees, initially in abject fear and then in profound gratitude. My daughter would prove one of my greatest teachers, providing lessons I had to learn, even as I fought them. Here is some of what my precious girl taught me:

“Meet me where I am.�

Adopted from China at the age of 12 months, she was truly sick and out of sync. Institutionalization just about broke her. Even though my daughter did not speak for close to three and a half years, she communicated what she needed. Along with signing, we had our own special language. I learned to listen with more than my ears and to be aware of more than the spoken word, such as what her unique movements meant. She showed me that her thumb was the best pacifier; naked was better than clothes; and that playing in the dirt and watching nature was fascinating. She was tender with ants, worms and snakes. Curious and fearless, she held them without crushing their small bodies. When the time arrived to gently strip her pudgy hands of her “friends,� she erupted into keening. Although I took care to replace them with babysafe insects, she was not fooled.

“Listen to your gut and your heart, and hold me close so that I can listen to it, too.�

She quickly taught me that holding her skin-to-skin and heart-to-heart calmed her outbursts and destressed Mama. Indeed it was during these countless holding sessions that I absorbed the miracle of my daughter, memorized her porcelain skin and downy dark hair.

• November 2017 • www.toledoparent.com

My daughter touches the wall first. No one screams louder than I do. She turns and finds me in the bleachers. Pride and satisfaction light her smile. I smile back so hard my face hurts, and I raise two thumbs us. You got this, babe.

“Don’t give up, Mama.�

I was determined to leave no stone unturned, Despite an initial screening and several follow-ups, specialists provided no diagnosis other than “significantly delayed.� They were divided on whether she would or could catch up. I refused to believe them. My gut told me the specialists were missing something big, but of course, I had no idea what it was.

“Always embrace hope, but prepare for the worst.�

I began to journal about my daughter— behavior (unpredictable, no pattern), outbursts (constant), setbacks (many), likes and dislikes, movements (“odd�), and milestones (few). Close to being out of options, I scheduled another appointment and took my notes. Upon entering the therapy group’s office that day, hope pounded in my throat and prayers pooled in my eyes. I remember my daughter shifting in my arms so that she could look me in the eyes. Her sweet smile seemed to say, “We’ve got this.� She snuggled back into my chest, tucking her soft hand under my bra, resting over my heart, while we waited to begin. The 30-minute appointment turned into several hours as other specialists screened my daughter. We waited patiently. Per usual, my diaper bag was bursting with snacks, milk and toys. Fortunately, I had also packed her lovey, Snakey— a stuffed snake longer than she was. My girl resorted to sucking her thumb as time ticked by, next to the comfort of Snakey. Excited voices grew louder in the room next to us. One therapist came to get us and took us into that room. The team gave us a diagnosis and outlined a plan for a battalion of therapies, which my girl began the following day. Therapy would not taper off for close to six years and would help my daughter and teach me more about supporting her as she became whole.

Special Needs Resources Sensational Kids Daycare & Learning Center 6060 Merger Drive Holland, OH 419-724-5434 sensationalkidsdaycare.com

Sensational Kids offers an alternative schooling option for children with special needs. The school’s experienced therapists and special education teachers work with parents to put together a program that will help with each child’s educational and developmental goals.

Sunshine Inc. of Northwest Ohio

7223 Maumee Western Road Maumee, OH 419-865-0251, sunshine.org Sunshine Communities supports men, women and children with developmental disabilities with housing options, day programming, therapy services, community employment, and recreational and animal-assisted activities. Its long-time mission has been to “create community,” and to that end, Sunshine in 2017 renovated, constructed or broke ground on five new homes in Lucas and Wood counties for residents with disabilities. It opened as a children’s home in 1950 when a couple with five children could find no help elsewhere, and today Sunshine supports people of ages in Northwest Ohio in more than two dozen homes and programming sites. It also operates Georgette’s Grounds & Gifts and Sunshine Studios.

Bright Horizon Advocacy and Consulting LLC 205 Farnsworth, Waterville, OH 419-441-1011 brighthorizonsadvcon.com

A non-attorney advocacy firm that’s dedicated to helping people with disabilities achieve their goals, Bright Horizons can help families advocate for a variety of issues, including special education issues, employment accommodations or vocational supports.

Zepf Center

Various locations 419-841-7701 zepfcenter.org With a mission of creating hope and recovery through integrated personcentered services, the Zepf Center is a local nonprofit that provides behavioral health and vocational services to Lucas County youth and adults with severe and persistent mental illness, including child and adolescent psychiatric, medical, residential, and therapy services, as well as career development.

HOPE Learning Academy 4234 Monroe St. Ottawa Hills, OH 419-297-6313 hopelearningacademy.org

HOPE Learning Academy of Toledo focuses on providing children with special needs with an excellent education. Students at HOPE develop selfreliance, critical thinking and problem solving skills through a research-based curriculum that is infused with social, sensory, and art enrichment.

Harbor Behavioral Health

Various locations throughout Toledo 419-475-4449, harbor.org Harbor Behavioral Health is a leading mental health provider in Northwest Ohio, with a developmental and behavioral pediatrics team dedicated to providing children with care to ensure they are successful in their home, school and community. Harbor offers a wide range of services, including psychological testing, psychiatric evaulations, community based therapy, individual and group counseling, parent/caregiver support and much more.

Painting Partnership Bittersweet Farms Social Living

Club (SLC), a recreational club for teens with autism spectrum disorders, is starting a new partnership with the Toledo Museum of Art. The partnership includes painting and drawing classes at the Museum. Teens in the SLC will learn different painting and drawing techniques. The program runs 6-7pm on Thursdays for four weeks, starting November 9. The cost is $65 and scholarships are available. For more information, contact Bittersweet Farms at 419-206-7803.

Sunshine Communities supports people of all ages with developmental disabilities by offering options in housing, day programming, coaching for independent living, community employment, recreation and clinical care. We build opportunities for meaningful relationships and purpose-filled days as part of our mission to create community for all.

419-865-0251 Call us today or visit sunshine.org to learn more about Sunshine

www.toledoparent.com • November 2017 •

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Part Two

OPEN HOUSE GUIDE Choosing the right school is key to a successful education and future endeavors. Check out these local schools to determine if one might be the perfect fit for your child. By Emily Remaklus

Daycroft Montessori St. Ursula Academy 1095 N Zeeb Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 734-662-3335 daycroft.org

4025 Indian Rd., Toledo 419-475-9359 toledosua.org

Open House: Oakbrook Campus (Pre-K) - Nov. 7th Zeeb Campus (K-8) - Nov.9th

Open House: November 12 12-3pm

Daycroft Montessori uniquely combines traditional Montessori approaches to teaching along with progressive teaching methods. Daycroft offers a low student-to-teacher ratio which allows for personalized learning. With the philosophy that children learn at their own pace, the school provides a learning environment that addresses students’ varied learning styles and allow children to demonstrate their learning in a variety of ways. After-school enrichment programs are also offered and vary based on semester. These organizations include language lessons, art classes, music lessons, sports, and chess.

St. Ursula Academy is a Catholic, college preparatory school for girls from grades 6-12. The academy helps develop girls into smart, strong, and spirited young women. SUA offers rigorous college-prep academics such as a variety of AP and Honors Courses. The young women at SUA not only become strong academics, but they also are national and state champions for many athletic teams, take part in nationally recognized fine arts programs, and are members of a nationally recognized STEM team. With over 40 clubs, students have many opportunities to take on leadership roles and develop new interests.

Ottawa Hills 3600 Indian Rd, Ottawa Hills 419-536-6371 ottawahillsschool.org

Open House: We invite you to learn more about our tuition enrollment option. Please call to schedule a school tour or student shadow day.

Ottawa Hills Local Schools offers maximum learning for every student from kindergarten through grade 12. With a tradition of excellence, Ottawa Hills provides a challenging curriculum for students and involves parents as partners in the education of their children. Ottawa Hills inspires each student to realize his or her unique potential and embrace learning as a lifelong process. With a variety of extracurricular activities including arts and athletics, Ottawa Hills Local Schools set students up for lifelong success.

Maumee Valley Country Day School 1715 S. Reynolds Rd. Toledo 419-381-1313, mvcds.org/page

Open House: 1-3pm. Sunday, November 12.

Maumee Valley Country Day School is the only Preschool (30 months) - 12th grade accredited, co-educational, independent school in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. Maumee Valley’s rich tradition of excellence in education, as measured by the strongest test scores in the region, remains at the core of their program. Students learn in an environment where each is challenged to think creatively and work collaboratively to find answers to relevant, real-world problems. Along with academics, arts, and athletics, Maumee Valley provides students with the opportunity to develop their personal narratives.

Continued on p.16

We Dare To See Education Differently! • Project-Based Learning • Social/Emotional Learning • Collaboration • Authentic Experiences • Independent Thinking • Learning for Life

It’s never too late to do something great for your child. iLEAD Spring Meadows is enrolling right now. Take a tour today! 14

iLEADSpringMeadows.org

1615 Timberwolf Drive, Holland, OH 43528 • 419-491-7423

• November 2017 • www.toledoparent.com

West Side Montessori School

7115 W. Bancroft St. Toledo 419-866-1931 montessoritoledo.org/blog/fall-open-house/ Open House: November 7

West Side Montessori inspires children of all ages to discover their full potential and focuses on creating independent and selfmotivated graduates. Unique to West Side Montessori is the world language curriculum. World languages are introduced to students at 3 years old, and that leads to an immersion program in upper grades. Additionally, West Side Montessori creates lessons that are geared towards each student’s learning style. Children work at their own pace and choose work based on their own interests and abilities.

www.toledoparent.com • November 2017 •

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Continued from p.14

Owens Community College PO Box 10000 Toledo 567-661-7149 owens.edu

Open House: Natural Sciences and Transportation Preview Day on November 8 Nursing and Health Professionals Preview Day on November 14 Fine and Performing Arts Preview on November 17

Since its establishment in 1965, Owens Community College has been providing educational opportunities and training for residents of Northwest Ohio. With over 100 academic programs and certificates, Owens offers something for everyone. Students can prepare for a career, retrain for a new career, and obtain credits to transfer to a four-year college even while still in high school. The average class size is only 14 students which allows students to receive more personal attention needed to help them succeed. Along with great educational opportunities, Owens provides student activities, clubs and organizations, athletics, and volunteer activities. Please RSVP online (owens.edu/visit/toledo-preview)if you’d like to attend a preview session.

ILead Schools Follow the Eyes PO Box 348 Perrysburg, OH. 419-508-9229 ileadschools.org/

Open House: Call to schedule your tour.

ILead serves students from Kindergarten up through 12th grade, and helps prepare to become critical thinkers and leaders. The name ILead stands for International, Leadership, Entrepreneurial Development, Arts, and Design Thinking. Students not only learn to become leaders, but they also become open-minded world citizens, team players, artists, and project-based learners. The goal of ILead is not only to develop strong learners, but also to develop learners who will go on to change the world.

Story Orchard Learning Academy LLC New SPECIAL NEEDS PRESCHOOL PROGRAM at Story Orchard Learning Academy for ages 2.5 to 6 years old. A qualified and degreed teacher in Early Childhood Education and Early Intervention will work with a small group of preschool aged children who might need a little extra attention on anything from developmental delays, behavior modification, to ASD. For more information about our new Special Needs Preschool Program at Story Orchard Learning Academy, and for FREE registration the entire month of November, please call: 419-826-9039 or email: solaresearch1@gmail.com. 7EST !IRPORT (IGHWAY 3WANTON /HIO s 16

• November 2017 • www.toledoparent.com

Children Thrive on Consistency

PERSPECTIVES ON PARENTING advertorial

The Spirit of Giving Cultivating the spirit of giving in children at an early age is important because it fosters a sense of belonging and self-worth. Very young children want to help. Encouraging them in simple acts of kindness such as bringing mommy a diaper for the new baby or helping daddy wash the car validates their place in the family. So what if their actions are incomplete or imprecise? Your appreciation for their efforts makes their hearts sing. Encouraging young children to reach beyond themselves and care for others is essential for healthy social development. Parents want their children to have friends, to learn give and take, to reach beyond themselves. This takes practice. It’s not easy for young children to put others first. The situations you create for your child to care for others should be real. From little ones carrying a box of tissues to a sick sibling to big kids unloading groceries from the car, each act of kindness should be rewarded with genuine affection.

Toledo Campus 7115 W. Bancroft St. Toledo, OH 43615

Perrysburg Campus 13587 Roachton Rd. Perrysburg, OH 43551

It’s important to explain to pre-school children why you go to visit a grandparent, or give money to a cause you value. The impression you make on tender young minds is validated by the actions that support your words. When I hear of a 10-year-old forgoing birthday party presents and requesting contributions for a food bank instead, I know that the parents have thoughtfully developed a caring child who takes real pride in being a contributing member of society. The internal rewards are sustainable and help to develop social beings that can create a better world.

Lynn Fisher Founder and Head of School West Side Montessori lfisher@montessoritoledo.org

www.toledoparent.com • November 2017 •

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• November 2017 • www.toledoparent.com

Q&A w ith Camisha Shamaine

Camisha Shamaine and her mother Shawn

From Tragedy to Triumph A local mom’s story By TiAnna Anderson

Although Camisha Shamaine became a single parent through tragic circumstances, she has blazed a trail from tragedy to triumph, from depression to greatness, and from low self-esteem to confidence. Four years ago, her partner, Joseph Moore, passed away in his sleep of natural causes, and she was left to pick up the pieces with a 6-day-old infant and 2-year-old toddler. Shamaine credits her faith in God, the love and support of her mother, Shawn, and her children with helping her to build her life back, better than before she lost her life partner.

Making a change

One day, Shamaine stood in front of the mirror and looked at herself, and how she had changed, physically and mentally. She was at her heaviest, 190 pounds. She was depressed and didn’t know what to do. She cried out to God and asked him to give her the strength to fix things, and in that moment her mindset began to change. From the time she was 12 years old, she suffered from low self-esteem and feelings of unworthiness. Shamaine was bullied and not welcomed because she was “the new, overweight, bubbly, dark-skinned girl”. Today, Shamaine is at a healthy 135 pounds, has a strong sense of purpose, and is living out her dreams. “There will always be a new day to change your yesterday,” she says. She learned the importance of setting her mind and focusing on positive things, eating healthy on a budget, and using her surroundings to develop a good workout regimen. She even involves her kids, Jailan, 7, and Justin, 4. On any given day, you can catch all three of them working out together or enjoying a “cheat day” from their healthy lifestyle.

Family support

After Joseph’s death, Shamaine’s mother, Shawn, and stepfather, Robert,

became an integral part of her family unit. The boys enjoy riding bikes, picking apples and pears, and golfing with their grandparents. In addition to the fun moments, Shawn provides wisdom and consistency for their family as they navigate growing up without their dad. The main thing Shamaine tries to instill in her sons is that they are great and powerful young men, and that the sky is the limit for them.

What’s your favorite activity to do with your family/kids ? The boys and I love listeni ng to music, and they try to guess the artist. Best Holiday memory you have from when you were a kid ? My best memory is Christ mas time having half of the living room covere d with gifts and opening presents with my brothers. What’s your go-to ac tivity when you finally have a few mi nutes to yourself? Journaling and listening to music Name one thing you swore you’d never do as a mom, but totally do. I swore I would never be as tough on them academically and make them go to bed by 8pm .

Describe your life in five words. Blessed, Bright, Memorab le, Irreplaceable, Lessons

New found confidence

Camisha Shamaine has grown from self-doubting to a confident woman; after her partner died, she realized she didn’t have a choice, she needed to create a safe space for her children to develop. Along with her new-found confidence, Shamaine had an epiphany about a year ago at two in the morning. She had an idea to start a cosmetics company that was all about helping women feel beautiful and finding their self-worth. SexC Cosmetics was born and she has invested her savings into building her dreams and empowering women. Shamaine’s motto is: “Let go and reclaim YOUR life back! Discover who you really are and pursue your passion.” Makeup is a way to feel beautiful and validate yourself, so that you are not dependent on another’s narrative of you. Shamaine believes, for many women, it can be extremely difficult to step out and do something different, if we don’t feel beautiful. “Often, confidence comes from beauty,” she says. Shamaine never felt beautiful until a few years ago when she found her inner strength, and now she is taking her empowering story and building a professional speaking platform. Her message of pushing through adversity, following dreams, and building selfconfidence is a common struggle and she enjoys speaking to diverse groups.

www.toledoparent.com • November 2017 •

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healthy kids Is There a Gun in the House?

Okos says he has yet to meet a firearm owner that wouldn’t answer these questions honestly, parent to parent. Often, children know where guns are hidden in the home, and parents underestimate the power of a kid’s curiosity. That’s why proper firearm storage is crucial. “If you’re going to have a gun at home, keep it locked in a safe, or keep the firearm itself locked with a trigger lock. Beyond that, teach every child what to do if they encounter a firearm,” Okos recommends.

Keeping our children safe By Heidi Borst

No matter how you feel about owning a gun, the fact is every week in this country, two children are shot by other children. Every week. As parents, we often go to extreme measures to protect our children from harm, yet asking other parents whether they have a gun in their home somehow falls off our radar. To keep our kids safe and to avoid a potentially tragic accident, the question begs to be asked. Read on for tips on making this delicate conversation less intimidating, and how to teach our kids about gun safety.

Hey kids: hands off all guns

Full disclosure: ask and tell

Having an age-appropriate conversation with our kids and instilling a respect for weapons is important no matter what side of the fence we’re on. “We teach our kids not to touch a hot stove, not to hit themselves with a hammer. But we avoid teaching them about firearms. Education is the best means of safety, because if a child understands a firearm is a dangerous item, they will respect it more,” Okos says, adding parents can start teaching kids about gun safety as early as 2 years old.

While it may feel like an invasion of privacy, we should get comfortable asking both old friends and new acquaintances if there’s a gun in their home. Toledo Police Officer Joe Okos advises, “One out of four homes have a firearm. We should be accepting of that, and ask families: ‘Hey just out of curiosity, do you have a firearm in the home?’ Then follow up: ‘Do you keep the firearm locked or secured so that a child isn’t able to get ahold of Toledo Police Officer it?’” Having the conversation may feel awkward at first, but it’s purely a matter of safety. Joe Okos.

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As for how to get the true danger of a real gun to resonate with a child, Okos urges, “You really have to stress it. I’m very up front with children. I tell them, if you play with a gun there’s a very good chance you or your friend can die. It’s very serious. They need to have the facts. I don’t sugarcoat.”

Stop. Don’t touch. Run away. Tell a grown up. Officer Okos and Toledo police are teaching kids what to do if they see a gun: Stop. Don’t Touch. Run Away. Tell A Grown Up. A program, with mascot Eddie the Eagle, developed by the National Rifle Association, teaches kids ages pre-K to 4th grade about gun safety. Okos says the program is free

and available to any group of kids. An 8-minute animated video where Eddie the Eagle teaches kids it’s never safe to touch a gun is viewable here: eddieeagle.nra.org

It’s your right to ask

So, before your child’s next playdate, ask if there’s an unlocked gun in the house. Still uncomfortable? Preface the question with something like, “My kid gets into everything, so I was wondering”… or “I’ve been talking to my child about safety lately, and it got me thinking”… but DO ask. It’s not about politics; it’s about safety.

U --1 Ê / U

Holiday Gift Guide

Dec. 1st Space Reservation by: Nov. 15th

Make your list, check it twice, be a part of the guide that shows our readers where to get the best gifts of the season

www.toledoparent.com • November 2017 •

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MY FAMILY MY WAY

Love After Loss My journey of life By Karen L. Zickes

It’s been four years since my husband passed away, but the journey moving forward without him continues daily. Perhaps it’s no longer a journey of healing; rather it’s simply our journey of life. After all, are we ever completely “healed” after the loss of a loved one?

Unchartered territory

Losing a spouse or significant other leaves a void that isn’t easily explained nor is it easily filled. And the journey to pursue love after loss is just as personal and unique as your grief journey. This new place isn’t for everyone, and that’s OK, too. Some may think you’re dating too soon while others feel you’re taking too long to “get back out there.” Always remember, this isn’t their journey, it’s yours. My golden rule of healing and moving forward has always been to do what is best for me and my family no matter what others may say or think.

Mindfully walking the journey

Throughout my process of healing after Jim passed, I walked thoughtfully and deliberately regarding countless situations. More importantly, I had three young kids trying to figure out the journey as well. I knew I only had one chance to help us move forward as a family and I wanted to do it mindfully rather than haphazardly. It was important to me that my children observed and understood that we would be fine no matter what. I needed them to feel safe and secure in their future and know that “We’ve got this” should it always remain just the four of us. Never did I want

22

them to feel their mother needed to run to a man to save us. That was very personal and important to me. When I lost my husband my children were in second, fifth and eighth grades. As the first year turned into the second and then rounded to the third, I knew one day my children would be grown and on their own. I also knew I had too much love left to give and I hoped I would one day have someone to share my life with again. Yet a nagging guilt remained that maybe I shouldn’t venture into the dating scene. Would it mean I didn’t love my husband enough? Would my children think I didn’t love their daddy? Would people think I would no longer keep Jim’s memory alive? I decided, at least for me, it meant none of those things.

Fighting off the fears and finding happiness

I can’t speak for everyone, but I think many who have experienced the loss of a significant other would say they hope to never endure that again. I am no different. I played every scenario in my mind of what might happen to the next person I let myself love. I lived it once; I’m not sure I could live it again. But I realized I had to get real. I was either going to play it safe and possibly miss out on many wonderful years with someone special, or I was going to take a leap of faith and believe that I did deserve to be happy with someone again. I had already learned there were no guarantees in life.

Moving forward is not forgetting

Moving forward is not synonymous with forgetting. And though my children have known and loved my current significant other their entire lives, it has been important that they understand their dad will always be their dad and that no one will ever take his place. Even still, that doesn’t always make things easier. Though they might have a difficult time now and then, I know deep down children want to see their parents happy, and mine are no different. This new and uncharted part of the journey continues to take all of us through ever-changing terrain. But as a family we will continue to walk the path while honoring their dad’s memory and making new memories.

• November 2017 • www.toledoparent.com

or, well, insulting? That’s the question you have to ask about a new fad called roasting. Kids voluntarily post a photo or video with the hashtag #roast me. Sometimes what they get is goodnatured joshing. And sometimes they get ripped to shreds. A child who asks to be roasted is hungry for attention and probably needs better outlets.

What To Do About Bullies Protecting your kids in cyberspace

Discuss real world consequences. Sometimes kids— and adults— use By Carolyn Jabs the concept of free speech as a justifiBullying in the schoolyard isn’t employers, the app has degenerated into cation for messages that denigrate or disparage other people. Although free new. But parents today have to worry a place where people feel free to say all about kids being bullied online, too. In the horrible things they would never say discussion of ideas and opinions is at the past year, many communities and face-to-face. For teens and pre-teens, the the heart of democracy, it should always schools report an increase in the number feedback can be devastating. Anonymous be done with respect. Children need of incidents in which children are haapps are cowardly. Make them off limits. to understand the difference between healthy, even heated, debate and atrassed because of gender, race, ethnicity, Enlist artificial intelligence. The sexual orientation or political point of survey by Reportlinker found cyberbulview. According to Stopbullying.gov, lying was most likely to occur in text 49% of children in grades 4 to 12 have messages and social media accounts experienced bullying, and 30% admitlike Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and ted to bullying others. Snapchat. Supervising these environLike old fashioned bullying, cyberments isn’t easy, unless parents turn to bullying involves a willful, repeated software like Bark (www.bark.us). This effort to humiliate, harass or threaten new app uses artificial intelligence to another person. Unlike traditional bulscan communications for slang and other lying, cyber attacks use technology like clues associated with bullying, grooming text messages, social media, apps or or harassment.The app also gives parents even the chat option on video games. advice about how to intervene constructively. Bark offers a 30-day trial free and Cyberbullying is different from then charges $9 per month. traditional bullying in two ways. First, there’s no escape. Technology follows kids home and even to another school. As soon as a child logs on, insults, slurs and hate become vivid again. Second, nothing disappears online. Taunts that would have been forgotten at the end of the day can resurface at any time. Young people can be truly traumatized if their most embarrassing moments go viral.

tacks on people for who they are or how they look. People can— and often do— change their minds when they are exposed to better ideas. Because of hateful posts, young people have lost jobs, scholarships, college acceptances and athletic opportunities, not to mention friendships with people who find such views offensive. Perhaps the most important thing parents can do to counter bullying of all kinds is to raise children strong enough to be compassionate, curious, constructive and courageous instead of critical, condescending, cowardly and cruel. To do that, all of us have to aspire to be models of what we hope our children will become.

Say no to roasting. Are insults funny

Now more than ever, parents need to stand firmly on the side of decency and kindness. By setting clear household rules, you can help your children develop the self-control that keeps them from making someone’s life miserable. Here are other ideas about how to combat bullying online: Delay social media access. Middle school students are especially vulnerable to bullying because they are trying to figure out where they fit socially. Often they form very strong ties to a particular peer group, and they can be insensitive, intolerant or even cruel to people outside that group. Keeping kids away from social media until they have better social skills makes sense, though it isn’t easy if “everyone” has a smartphone. “Wait Until 8th” is an effort to create support for parents who don’t think smartphones are necessary in middle school. Started by a Mom in Texas, the program encourages parents to band together so teens don’t feel like the only one without a phone. Avoid anonymous apps. Being anonymous seems to encourage cruelty. The most recent example is an app called Sarahah, a word which translates as honesty in Arabic. Originally intended as a way for employees to provide constructive anonymous feedback to

www.toledoparent.com • November 2017 •

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The Briarfield Café 3220 Briarfield Blvd. at Dussel, Maumee 419-865-7260 Mon-Thur: 7am-8pm Fri-Sat: 7am-9pm Sun: 7am-3pm

The Briarfield Café a local people pleaser By Karen L. Zickes

I just discovered one of my new favorite places to stop in with the family for a good home-cooked meal, but I’m beyond disappointed it took me so long. Sadly I have driven by it more times than I could count. If you are like me, stop in The Briarfield Café once, and you won’t drive by it again.

Fast friendly service with a smile

Eatin’ Good In The Neighborhood

Located in a strip plaza at the corner of Briarfield and Dussel in Maumee, years ago I stopped in for a quick breakfast with a friend and failed to pay much attention to the rest of the menu. Unfortunately for me, I assumed they were only open for breakfast and lunch. Since my great dis-

covery, I have had several friends tell me they’ve been there many times, including the friend we ran into as she grabbed her carry out order. Toledoans David and Judy Katafiasz have been pleasing the locals for 13.5 years. David Katafiasz has 42 years in the food business, but Briarfield Café is his first restaurant endeavor. “I have one of the best staffs I have ever worked with,” he said. He raved about how his employees are terrific people who are caring and who take ownership. The Friday night my family stopped in they were very busy but they all maintained a smile on their face. The café, not large by any means, has been recently renovated, and the dining room is bright, open and now includes

long benches in the waiting area. Though there may be a short wait from time to time, Katafiasz said his staff does an amazing job at turning tables over. Even on the busiest of days, he is confident it’s no more than a 20-minute wait.

Small but mighty

For a café this size, the menu is quite large and available all day, according to Katafiasz. That’s right. If you just ended your shift at 7am and have a hankering for meatloaf, then meatloaf it is! If it’s 6pm and, like my daughter, you want breakfast? Then have at it. Not only is the immense variety available all day, but so much of what they make is from scratch, right down to their sauces and dressings, made daily. I would have never guessed there was so much going on behind those windows as I drove by countless times.

Great options for the kids and more

Just as the regular menu is offered all day, the kids’ menu is no different. Between breakfast and dinner selections your children have 13 options. You are sure to find exactly what your little one is craving and all for only $4.49 or less, plus drink. And don’t panic if you can’t find an available high chair. According to Katafiasz, they rotate high chairs out to keep them always clean and sanitized. Don’t see one? They’ll bring a newly cleaned one out from the back for you. Once we learned we could order off the entire menu, our party of four ordered something from the breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu as well as the all-you-can-eat Friday fish special with Alaskan Pollock. My beef stroganoff was just the comfort

Bottom Line:

food I was craving, while two of my kids enjoyed a burger and pancakes. Most lunch options are served with fresh-cut fries or homemade potato chips which I was told are amazing. All dinners come with multigrain bread and fingerlicking good homemade honey butter. Several meals come with a choice of soup or salad. I tried the chili that evening and it was chock-full of meat. However, I was told by friends that the French onion soup is one of the best around, as well as the Briarfield salad. With most everything on the menu costing $8.99 or less, families can actually afford to eat out without breaking the bank.

THE SHORT COURSE Kid-friendly: Yes

To avoid wait: Friday night and Sunday mornings are busiest, but they turn tables quickly Noise level: Moderate

Bathroom amenities: Padded changing table---like you would have at home! High chairs: Yes and they are sanitized regularly Got milk? Yes and a variety of juice

Kids’ menu? Yes, and it has 13 options

Allergy info: Alert your server ahead of time, however they can’t 100 percent guarantee no cross-contamination in the kitchen as counter space is limited.

There is much to love about The Briarfield Café. Whether you love the palatepleasing menu that is available all day, or the friendly and attentive staff, or the affordability, you will want to stop in more than once. Even your toughest critic will be overjoyed to have 13 options to choose from on the kids’ menu. 24

• November 2017 • www.toledoparent.com

{ November

2017 }

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

1 WEDNESDAY Toddler Trails - Your toddler will love this interactive, nature-focused group, for play and exploration. Ages 3 and younger with adult. 10-11am. $2. Wildwood Preserve, 5100 Central Ave., 419-4079700. metroparkstoledo.com Thinking Money Games - Learning about how to handle money doesn’t have to be boring - come to the Main Library to play games, bond with peers, and have fun while also learning valuable life skills. 3:30-4:30pm. Main Library, 325 Michigan Ave., 419-259-5200. toledolibrary.org. Free Trashformations Tinkering - Create your very own plastic fabric, then use other materials to make an exciting project to take home. Runs the month of November. Inside the IDEA Lab. TuesdaySaturday 10am-5pm. Sunday noon-5pm. Free with admission Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. 419-244-2674. imaginationstationtoledo.org.

2 THURSDAY Creative Drama Class - Check out fun acting classes for kids aged 3-6, covering song, movement, and drama. Prices and times vary by age group, $5-$20. Children’s Theatre Workshop at the Collingwood Arts Center, 2417 Collingwood Blvd., 419-244-5061. ctwtoledo.org Bristle Bot Challenge - Build your very own bristlebot robot and race to find the fastest. Recommended grades 3 and up, but younger participants are allowed with a grown-up’s assistance. Registration required. 3-4pm. Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Rd., Maumee. 419-259-5360. toledolibrary.org. Free Cycle Circle: Bike 101 - Learn the basics of long-distance riding at this fun bicycling workshop. Bring a bike, helmet, and tire tube. Ages 8 and up. 6-7:30pm. Secor Preserve, 10001 Central Ave., Sylvania. 419-407-9710. metroparkstoledo.com. Free

Pumpkin Painting Party - Stories, games, and pumpkin painting will get you in the fall mood. 6:30-7:30pm. Sanger Branch Library, 3030 Central Ave., 419-259-5370. toledolibrary.org. Free

Mom•2•Mom Sale

3 FRIDAY Birds of Woodlawn - Have a young birding enthusiast at home? Bring them to this fun, relaxing birdwatching event. Bring binoculars and bird guides if you have them. 8:30-10:30am. Historic Woodlawn Cemetery, 1502 W. Central Ave., 419-472-2186. historic-woodlawn.com. Free Fall Skies over Toledo - Listen to stories, learn about the night sky, and learn to be a backyard astronomer at this live, interactive experience. 7:30pm. $7/ adults, $5/students, seniors, UT members, free/3 and under. UT Ritter Planetarium, 2855 W Bancroft St., 419-530-2650. utoledo.edu/nsm/rpbo

Sunday, Nov 5, 10am-2pm

Here’s a way to help support Veterans ]and their families in need this Thanksgiving— ] shop the Mom to Mom Sale at American Legion Post 468 on Sunday, November 5. The event runs from 10am-2pm and admission is free. There will be tons of great deals on kids’ clothes, toys, books and baby items. American Legion Post 468, 5580 Centennial Road, Sylvania

Wizard of Oz: Broadway Musical

Tuesday, November 7, 7:30-10pm There truly is no place like home as the greatest family musical of all time, the wonderful Wizard of Oz, twists its way into The Valentine Theater! The entire family will be captivated as they travel down the Yellow Brick Road and beyond with Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow in this lavish film production, featuring breathtaking special effects, dazzling choreography and classic songs. Valentine Theater, 410 N. Superior Street, Toledo

Glass Art Workshop: November Glass Gourd Project - Make a cute little glass gourd for your Thanksgiving table or just for fun - with a glass expert during a 1-hour session. Open to children 14+ with adult. Registration required. Sessions at 6pm, 7pm, and 8pm. $30/members, $40/nonmembers. Glass Pavilion at Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St., 419-255-8000. toledomuseum.org

4 SATURDAY Hero Hustle 5K - Come enjoy this family event to strengthen support and education for organ, eye, and tissue donation. Superhero costumes encouraged! 7:30am registration, 8:30am kids Fun Run, 9am 5K. $25/registration, t-shirt, and bag. The Shops at Fallen Timbers, 3100 Main St., Maumee. facebook.com/ NWOhioHeroHustle5K The World at War: Miniature War Gaming Day - Kids can play a variety of historical, futuristic, and fantasy battle games with miniature war games experts. Food available. 9:30am-4pm. Fort Meigs, 29100 W. River Rd., Perrysburg. 419-874-4121. fortmeigs.org. Free with reg. admission Cont'd on 26

www.toledoparent.com • November 2017 •

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Cont'd from 25

5 SUNDAY

The Wright Brothers: Children's Series - Follow Orville and Wilbur Wright as they make their dreams of flying come true through a musical adventure in The Wright Brothers: Those Daring Young Men and Their Flying Machines. 2pm. $15/adults, $10/kids. The Valentine Theater, 410 Adams St., 419-242-2787. valentinetheatre.com

8 WEDNESDAY Mischief Makers Book Club - Young readers ages 6-8 are invited to discuss the monthly book at a fun and interactive club. Book can be purchased online. 7-7:30pm. Gathering Volumes Bookstore, 196 East S. Boundary St., Perrysburg. 567-336-6188. gatheringvolumes.com. National Chemistry Week - This year, Chemistry Week focuses on mysterysolving, through the science of DNA, fingerprints, art forgery, color, pigments, and more. November 8-12. WednesdaySaturday 10am-5pm. Sunday noon-5pm. Free with admission. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. 419-244-2674. imaginationstationtoledo.com

10 FRIDAY ABC University - Storytimes, crafts, and fun are used to promote literacy in kids. A different letter is highlighted each session at this bi-weekly program. 10-11am. Mott Branch Library, 1085 Dorr St., 419-259-5230. toledolibrary.org. Free

11 SATURDAY 30th Annual Blade Holiday Parade The annual parade, presented by the Taylor Automotive Family, will feature holiday fun for the whole family. 10am-noon. Downtown Toledo at Summit & Jefferson. 419-724-6394. Free Maker’s Mart: Holiday Edition Come out to Handmade Toledo’s winter session of the semi-annual indie art and crafts show. Enjoy wares from local vendors as well as artisanal food. 10am8pm. $1 admission. Handmade Toledo, 1717 Adams St., 419-214-1717. handmadetoledo.com Hensville Tree Lighting and Light Show - Watch as St. Clair Street is lit with over 200,000 twinkling lights at this event featuring dancing light shows, strolling carolers, a visit from Santa, and more. 6pm-midnight. Hensville Park, Washington & St. Clair Sts., hensvilletoledo.com. Free Walk to Help End Local Hunger Enjoy a walk or run, heated tent, food, and entertainment at The 3rd Annual ProMedica 5k to End Hunger and the 50th Annual Churchill’s Half Marathon (takes place at Perrysburg High School). 9am-noon. $20-$65. The Shops at Fallen Timbers, 3100 Main St., Maumee. churchillshalfmarathon.org

12 SUNDAY Holiday Open House - Visit the Isaac Ludwig Mill and take a journey through history, while kids make candles, bake on wood cook stoves, and create ornaments. 10:30am-3:30pm. Providence Metropark, 13801 S River Rd., Grand Rapids. 419-779-6052. metroparkstoledo.com. Free 26

• November 2017 • www.toledoparent.com

15 WEDNESDAY Homemade Holiday Candy Making - Create your own sweet holiday confection with Ms. Dorothy at this hands-on program. Recommended for teens. Register online. 4-5pm. Toledo Heights Branch Library, 423 Shasta Dr., 419-259-5220. toledolibrary.org. Free

16 THURSDAY Art Loop: Holiday Loop - Get in the holiday spirit with family activities, live music, arts & crafts by local vendors and artists, holiday exhibitions, and more. Wristbands cost $1.25 and grant you unlimited bus rides. 5:30-9pm. Downtown Toledo. theartscommission.org. Free

17 FRIDAY Lights Before Christmas - Get in the holiday spirit with the annual exhibit featuring over 70 miles of enchanting lights! Enjoy some warm treats and visit the Winter Village, including the new Bumper Cars on Ice. Open through December 31, excluding holidays. Sunday-Thursday 3-8pm. Friday-Saturday 3-9pm. $17/ adults, $14/seniors and kids 2-11, free/ ages 2 and under. Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-5721. toledozoo.org The Adventures of Rose Red - Meet Rose Red, Snow White’s less famous sister, as she discovers her true self in a world that’s telling her who to be. Put on by the Player’s Company. Performances: 9:45 am and 12:30pm November 17. 2pm and 5pm November 18 and 19. $6/students, $8/adults. Children’s Theatre Workshop at the Collingwood Arts Center, 2417 Collingwood Blvd., 419-244-5061. ctwtoledo.org

18 SATURDAY Sippy Cup Story Time - Enjoy a relaxing weekend morning with songs, stories, yoga, and more at SIP’s event for all ages. Also on Saturday, November 25. 9:30-10:30am. SIP Coffee, 3160 Markway Rd., 419-407-5038. facebook.com/SipCoffeeToledo. Free Holiday Art Show & Sale - You might catch a glimpse of Santa and the Grinch as they visit the annual arts & crafts show, also featuring live music, food, a silent auction, 50/50 raffle, and a student art show. 10am-4pm. Hope United Methodist Church, 10610 Waterville St., Whitehouse. 419-877-5383. whitehouseoh.gov. Free Tree Lighting at Levis Commons Save the date for the annual tree lighting celebration, this year with the theme “Back to the 90s”. Family and holiday fun abounds. 6-7pm. Levis Commons, 3201 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. 419931-8888. shopleviscommons.com. Free

20 MONDAY Monthly Memorial Ceremony Honor the life of your beloved pet by sharing memories at this support group, led by a licensed social worker certified in Pet Loss Bereavement. Feel free to bring a picture of your pet. RSVP required. Canine Karma, 6128 Merger Rd., Holland. 419-290-8237. caninekarma.org. Free

23 THURSDAY Dave’s Turkey Chase 5K - Get some exercise in so you don’t have to feel guilty about that Thanksgiving feast waiting at home! This annual fun run benefits local charities. Ages 6 and up. 9amnoon. $30/Turkey Chase, $15/1-mile walk, free/Kids Fun Run. WTOL11, 730 N Summit St., 419-248-1111. facebook.com/RunToledo

24 FRIDAY The Nutcracker Ballet - Enjoy the Ballet Theatre of Toledo’s beautiful annual Nutcracker performance. Special showing on Friday; regular performances run Saturday, November 25 at 7pm and Sunday, November 26 at 2pm. $25-$40. The Valentine Theater, 410 Adams St., 419-242-2787. ballettheatreoftoledo.org Santa's Magical Arrival and Family Dance Party at Oak Street A dance party and stage show with lights and costumed characters kicks off the evening, followed by Santa’s arrival on a lighted Maumee Fire Truck, and fireworks. 5:30-7pm. The Shops at Fallen Timbers, Oak Street (between Forever21 and Kay), Maumee. 419-740-7080. theshopsatfallentimbers.com. Free

25 SATURDAY Santa’s Secret Star - Rudolph, Santa, and friends will explore the constellations and use the stars to navigate their way back to the North Pole in this fulldome version of the classic children’s program. 1pm on Saturdays through December 23. $7/adults, $5/students, seniors, UT members, free/3 and under. UT Ritter Planetarium, 2855 W Bancroft St., 419-530-2650. utoledo.edu/nsm/rpbo

Maumee Holiday Light Parade The Holiday Hustle 5K, musical entertainment, and activities will be followed by the amazing light parade with 60 lighted floats, plus an appearance by Santa. Parade starts at Anthony Wayne Trail & Ford St., ending at the Maumee Indoor Theater, where you can meet Santa and take a picture. 5pm. Uptown Maumee, various locations. 419-893-5805. maumeeuptown.com. Free

26 SUNDAY North Pole Express - Enjoy a special train to the North Pole at the NWORRP on Fridays-Sundays through December 30. 5-9pm Friday & Saturday, 5-8pm Sunday. $3/adults, $2/kids. Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation, 12505 Township Highway 99, Findlay. 419-423-2995. nworrp.org

Lego Stop-Motion Movie Making Explore the process of making amazing stop-motion films with your own Lego creations. Meeting Room A. 6:30-8pm. Sanger Branch Library, 3030 Central Ave., 419-259-5370. toledolibrary.org. Free

30 THURSDAY Homesteading: Pioneering Christmas - At Johlin Cabin you’ll be able to experience the holiday traditions of our Black Swamp ancestors with activities and treats. All ages. 11am3pm. Pearson Park, 4600 Starr Ave., Oregon. 419-407-9714. metroparkstoledo.com. Free

toledoparent.com Saturdays & Sundays

Ugly Sweater Stitching Learn how to make your very own ugly sweater with basic sewing techniques for the upcoming holidays. Kids and adults are welcome. Takes place in the Think Tank. 2pm. $6/members, $8/non-members. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. 419-244-2674. imaginationstationtoledo.com

Mondays - Wednesdays

Homework Helper Your children can get help with their school assignments, learn study tips, and more at weekly sessions. Check online for other locations. 4-6pm. Main Library, 325 Michigan St., 419-259-5200. toledolibrary.org. Free

Thursdays

Mothers' Center Meetup Mothers meet for fun, food, and friendship with this group every other week. Reliable and safe childcare is provided while you enjoy a relaxing morning. Thursday, November 2 and 16. 9:45-11:15am. West Toledo YMCA, 2110 Tremainsville Rd., Toledo. motherscenter.net. Free

ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE Free Classifieds: Individuals may receive one free 20-word ad per month (products offered in ads must sell for under $100). Each additional word 40 cents, payment must accompany ad. Free ads run 1 month and are reserved for private-parties use, noncommercial concerns and free services. Line Classifieds: Only $20 per month for 20 words or less. Each additional word is 40 cents each and any artwork will be $5 extra. Display Classifieds: Display classifieds with a box may be purchased for $25 per column inch. Photos are accepted with ads for an additional $5 per photo.

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

Payment: Payment must be received before an

ad can be placed. We accept checks, cash, money orders and credit cards (Visa/Mastercard). Phone: 419-244-9859

E-Mail: classifieds@adamsstreetpublishing.com REFUNDS: Sorry, NO REFUNDS given. MISPRINTS: Credit toward future ads.

HELP WANTED

job opportunity PART TIME JOB OPPORTUNITIES WITH SUCCESSFUL AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM

27 MONDAY

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The LEARNING CLUB® of Toledo is seeking candidates to serve as Part Time teachers in an inner city after-school program. All candidates must make a commitment to either Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/ Thursday programming. Programs meet from 3:30-5:30PM. Looking for candidates who have good communication skills, high energy, and who are adaptable and reliable. BCI and FBI background checks required. I look forward to hearing from potential applicants Please send a resume to me at debbieapgar@aol.com or call at 419-360-2842 to set up an interview.

Signature Leather Jacket - 2X, 5 sport embroidery sewn designs. Call for more info 419-699-3398

Have 10K in Debt? National Debt Relief is rated A-Plus with the BBB. You could be debt free in 24-48 months. Call 1-888-998-4967 now for a free debt evaluation.

Safe Step Walk-In Tub Alert for Seniors. Bathroom falls can be fatal. Approved by Arthritis Foundation. Therapeutic Jets. Less Than 4 Inch StepIn. Wide Door. Anti-Slip Floors. American Made. Installation Included. Call 1-800906-3115 for $750 Off

CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! All Makes/ Models 2002-2016! Any Condition. Running or Not. Competitive Offer! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call Now: 1-888-368-1016

For sale

Crochet Puppy Pads and Kitty Carpets $5 Book Worms 50cents 419-698-8522

Announcements

CRAFTERS WANTED December 2, 2017 9am-4pm 8008 Jackman road Temperance MI

Got Knee Pain? Back Pain? Shoulder Pain? Get a pain-relieving brace -little or NO cost to you. Medicare Patients Call Health Hotline Now! 1800-419-3684 Lung Cancer? And 60 Years Old? If So, You and Your Family May Be Entitled To A Significant Cash Award. Call 800897-7205 To Learn More. No Risk. No Money Out of Pocket. SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. Unable to work? Denied benefits? We Can Help! WIN or Pay Nothing! Contact Bill Gordon & Associates at 1-800-208-6915 to start your application today! Stop OVERPAYING for your prescriptions! SAVE! Call our licensed Canadian and International pharmacy, compare prices and get $25.00 OFF your first prescription! CALL 1-800-254-4073 Promo Code CDC201625 A PLACE FOR MOM. The nation’s largest senior living referral service. Contact our trusted, local experts today! Our service is FREE/no obligation. CALL 1-800-880-1686

AUTOS WANTED

Business Opportunities

Ever Thought Of Owning Your Own Business? Christmas Shop From Your Own Back Office & Save! Call For Details: 641-715-3900 Ext 881513#

For Sale Building Materials

Galvanized, Water Stained, Economy, 2 1/2” Corrugated 24” coverage, 50 pc bundles 8’ $4.32 a sheet, 12’ $6.48 a sheet Closeout Deal. slateroadsupply.com 717-445-5222

Outside Sales Rep

You know Toledo. You’re hungry to join a growing, fast-paced and fun team. You have sales experience (and if not, you’re such a great communicator that you seem to create meaningful relationships with nearly everyone). You’re reliable and accessible. You’re open to accepting constructive feedback and finding a rhythm. For you, there’s no such thing as a tough sell. A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation. Send resume to sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com Send resume and references to mjacobs@adamsstreetpublishing.com We’re excited to work with the right person who shares our vision and values. Welcome aboard.

www.toledoparent.com • November 2017 •

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