Toledo region 12614

Prepared in Partnership with the TOLEDO REGION

Toledo Region: Business and Opportunity Accelerated

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toledoBlade.com

THE BLADE: TOLEDO, OHIO ■ SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2014

Toledo Region:

Business and Opportunity Accelerated Our Story This slice of Northwestern Ohio that’s centered around Toledo has been at the heart of industrial activity since the time it was founded as a terminus of the Miami and Erie Canal, then as a key railway center between New York and Chicago, and then as a cornerstone of the automobile industry.

With so much in place as a center of the nation’s earlier manufacturing economy, it’s no surprise the region is poised to become the capital of the New Manufacturing Economy.

D. Michael Collins Mayor City of Toledo

The Toledo Region is taking its place at the forefront of this new economy because it has manufacturing in its DNA. Think of the region as possessing the very best of the manufacturing mindset. It’s ingrained in the business community, upheld by the universities, and proudly embraced by the region’s diverse, dedicated, and skilled workforce.

The region supports a business model so efficient it can seem downright plug-and-play for business builders and leaders. From diverse talent and capital to powerful networks and innovative universities, it’s obvious that you’ll find everything you need to accelerate your opportunity.

Generations of the region’s residents and their neighbors recognized this area’s rare combination of opportunity and beauty and made the commitment to strike deep, lasting roots here. The cultural and social investments they made, and the distinctive neighborhoods and communities they created, remain to welcome new generations today.

Carol Contrada President Lucas County Board of Commissioners

The Toledo Region extends a particular welcome. Our remarkable combination of affordability and accessibility that you can only find at rare moments and places converges to create a quality of life that others can only dream about.

We’re poised to attract and retain the best talents as the heart of the New Manufacturing Economy, where good ideas can reach global proportions, and life can be good every step of the way.

Jeff Schaaf Toledo Region Brand Manager

Key Industries The State of Ohio is focused on promoting and developing a set of 10 business clusters based on core capacity and competitive advantages in each industry. Six of these clusters are featured as major strengths of the Toledo Region. Coupled with our expertise in business functions and international operations, these industries represent the dynamic and diverse opportunities in the Toledo Region.

Advanced & Alternative Energy The Toledo Region has gained an international reputation in solar and other alternative technologies based on its successful history and knowledge base in the glass industry.

When considering the many renewable energy companies that are thriving here, businesses and entrepreneurs are realizing the natural fit for advanced energy in the Toledo Region.

Bioscience In the Toledo Region, bioscience has developed into a fast-growing cluster providing great potential in the creation of new businesses, high-paying jobs and diversity in the number of industries it impacts. Existing companies have provided the foundation for future industry growth in sub sectors such as medical devices and equipment, agricultural biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and therapeutics.

Advanced Materials & Manufacturing Technologies Advanced manufacturing applies cutting-edge concepts in computers, electronics, software and automation to improve production. Significant leaps in technology are driven by the creation of advanced materials. Advanced materials include unique composites of plastic, glass fibers, carbon fibers, ceramics, metals and nano-materials finer than smoke particles. Any of these can be used to create end products that are stronger, faster and lighter than anyone imagined possible.

These innovative industrial technologies not only enable commercialization, but also provide the means to produce new products effectively and efficiently.

Food Processing & Agribusiness With a strategic location between the traditional Grain Belt region and the populous East Coast markets, it’s not surprising the Toledo Region is one of the leading manufacturers of food and agriculture products in the United States. Some of the biggest names in the food industry do business right here. Our location, combined with a comprehensive transportation network and intermodal connections allows for fast, efficient and cost-effective access to customers.

Automotive For well over 100 years, the Toledo Region has served as a major location for development and production in the automotive industry. Its niche in automotive evolved from the bicycle industry, where Toledo grew into one of the biggest manufacturing locations in the country. The Toledo Region’s extensive Tier I, Tier II and Tier III automotive parts suppliers employ thousands of experts skilled in tool and die, stamping, machining, extruding, casting, injection molding, coating and other processes.

Transportation & Integrated Logistics Within a 300-mile radius of Toledo, our region has access to the most industrial square footage in the United States and Canada. No other site in North America can make a similar claim. The Toledo region offers every available mode to meet the global needs of business: air, rail, road, and water.

For investment information, contact Jeff Schaaf at jeff.schaaf@toledochamber.com or at 419.243.8191

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THE BLADE: TOLEDO, OHIO ■ SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2014

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Toledo Region {By the Numbers}

Toledo

Nearly 1.5 million people call the Toledo Region home. These diverse people and their innovative companies make the Toledo Region a dynamic place to grow.

Allen

Crawford

Population: 106,331 Labor Force: 49,800 Major Employers include: • Ford Motor Company • MetoKote Corporation • Procter & Gamble

Population: 43,784 Labor Force: 20,900 Major Employers include: • Hebco Products Inc. • The Timken Company • Pittsburgh Glass Works

Defiance

Erie

Population: 39,037 Labor Force: 19,400 Major Employers include: • General Motors • Johns Manville • Defiance Metal Products Company

Population: 77,079 Labor Force: 42,000 Major Employers include: • Cedar Fair/CedarPoint • Kalahari Resorts • Kyklos Bearing Inc.

Fulton

Hancock

Hardin

Henry

Hillsdale

Lucas

Population: 42,698 Labor Force: 22,000 Major Employers include: • Sauder Woodworking • International Automotive Components • NorthStar BlueScope Steel

Population: 74,782 Labor Force: 40,100 Major Employers include: • Hearthside Food Solutions • Cooper Tire & Rubber Company • Marathon Petroleum

Population: 32,058 Labor Force: 14,600 Major Employers include: • International Paper • Amer Sports/Wilson Sporting Goods • Ada Technologies

Population: 28,215 Labor Force: 15,400 Major Employers include: • Alex Products • Campbell Soup • Tenneco Inc.

Population: 37,047 Labor Force: 21,463 Major Employers include: • Hillsdale College • Metaldyne • Hillsdale Community Health Center

Population: 441,815 Labor Force: 211,000 Major Employers include: • ProMedica • The Andersons, Inc. • Dana Holding Corp.

• Owens Corning

Lenawee

Monroe

Ottawa

Paulding

Putnam

Sandusky

Population: 99,892 Labor Force: 48,814 Major Employers include: • Emma L. Bixby Medical Center • Wacker Chemical Corporation • Adrian Steel Company

Population: 152,021 Labor Force: 76,211 Major Employers include: • Ford Motor Company • La-Z-Boy • Memorial Hospital

Population: 41,428 Labor Force: 21,100 Major Employers include: • Brush Wellman Inc • FirstEnergy Corporation • United States Gypsum Company

Population: 19,614 Labor Force: 10,100 Major Employers include: • Alex Products Inc. • Cooper Farms Inc. • H.E. Orr Company

Population: 34,449 Labor Force: 18,100 Major Employers include: • Kalida Manufacturing • Midway Products/ Progressive Stamping • Procter & Gamble/Iams Company

Population: 60,944 Labor Force: 33,400 Major Employers include: • Crown Battery • HJ Heinz Co. • Whirlpool

Seneca

Van Wert

Williams

Wood

Wyandot

Population: 56,745 Labor Force: 29,400 Major Employers include: • Dorel Industries/ Ameriwood Industries • Fram Group • Trane U.S. Inc.

Population: 28,744 Labor Force: 14,200 Major Employers include: • Braun Industries Inc • Eaton • Federal-Mogul

Population: 37,642 Labor Force: 19,100 Major Employers include: • Ohio Art • Spangler Candy Co. • Titan Tire Co.

Population: 125,488 Labor Force: 66,100 Major Employers include: • Cooper Standard • First Solar • Owens Illinois

Population: 22,615 Labor Force: 11,100 Major Employers include: • Bridgestone • Continental Structural Plastics • Guardian Industries

Ohio figures are courtesy of Ohio Office of Policy, Research and Strategic Planning.

Michigan figures are courtesy of the U.S. Census Bureau.

Bold indicates Fortune 500™ companies

Doing Business Here The Toledo Region offers a unique blend of small-town values and mid-sized city opportunities. It features world-class attractions along with a variety of entertainment options that take advantage of the rural mix and lakeshore setting. Perhaps the best testimonial for growing or developing business in the Toledo Region can be made by existing companies that continue to invest and expand their operations. Our region is focused on business growth and will do everything to accelerate your opportunity.

Transportation & Logistics The Toledo Region offers the most efficient and cost-effective means to transport products to customers. The region’s combination of rail, water, air and highway transportation assets offers unparalleled access to the North American and global marketplace.

Supply Chain This region offers a strong supply chain rich with secondary suppliers, including mechanical and machine fabrication shops. In addition, there are great opportunities for packaging companies and component suppliers.

Natural Resources The Toledo Region offers an abundance of one of the most important natural resources – water. Bounded by Lake Erie and the Great Lakes, this region provides the world’s largest supply of fresh water. The region also offers some of the lowest industrial electric rates in the Midwest, currently as low as 4.73 cents per kilowatt hour.

Entrepreneurial Support Entrepreneurs will find more than resources in the Toledo Region. Business-builders in the Toledo Region can count on support from experts and peers as well as direct access to financial programs and other incentives geared to their growth and long-term success.

Workforce For years, the Toledo Region’s workforce has been recognized among the most trained, educated and productive in North America. Three local automotive plants were ranked as the most productive in North America. Chrysler’s Toledo North Assembly Plant was named the most productive assembly plant; GM’s Powertrain Plant was recognized as the most productive transmission facility; and Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance was named most productive engine plant.

Regional Hospitals/Physicians The Toledo Region offers a strong association of health care systems and hospitals. Many of the physicians at these institutions are very inventive and bring an entrepreneurial mindset in looking to commercialize their ideas in the marketplace.

Universities/Education A commitment to education is deeply rooted and strong in the Toledo Region. Nearly three dozen schools of higher education are located within 60 miles of Toledo equaling one of the highest such concentrations in the United States. The region boasts approximately 100,000 undergraduate and graduate students pursuing studies in a comprehensive selection of programs.

Foreign Trade Zones The Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority is the grantee of Foreign Trade Zone #8, encompassing the seaport, airport, and other key locations around metropolitan Toledo. The Findlay Hancock County Alliance features Foreign Trade Zone #151, focused around Tall Timbers Business Park, home to many international companies.

Market Access The Toledo Region’s central Midwest location features the intersection of the most traveled interstates across the country (I-75, I-80, I-90), which provides companies access to nearly 100 million people within a 10-hour drive. There is also more industrial space within 300 miles of Toledo than any other location in the United States.

Infrastructure The Toledo Region’s onsite infrastructure features an array of accessible and reliable services that encompass the region’s major business areas. Competitive electric and gas utility rates; fresh water supply and sanitation; and major fiber optics and telecommunication services are as strong as anywhere in the United States.

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THE BLADE: TOLEDO, OHIO ■ SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2014

Harbor – An Employer, Provider and Partner of Choice Harbor’s Vision Statement says it all: Harbor will be the regional employer, provider, and partner of choice. With a vision like that from a leading health care non-profit organization, it comes as no surprise that Harbor has been voted as a Top Work Place in Toledo.

Building its history since 1914, Harbor has grown and evolved into a team of professionals who change the lives of individuals and families every day. Today, Harbor is one of the largest mental health providers in Northwest Ohio. A successful, community owned health care organization that has thrived for 100 years because of the dedication of its team and their contributions to serving the community.

What makes Harbor a Top Work Place?

Currently employing over 480 people, Harbor stays true to its Vision as the regional Employer of Choice. Harbor is committed to its team members and understands that treating team members well is essential to providing excellent service to its clients.

They work well with the UFCW Union and have cultivated a successful partnership.

The employees at Harbor are passionate about the work they do in the community – using their talents and expertise to help

those who need it the most.

Harbor is the Provider of Choice in the community, as well. As the leader in the Mental Health area, thousands of clients look to Harbor to provide the help they are searching for. Harbor is very diverse in the services that are offered, from office and community-based counseling for mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and schizophrenia to helping those with developmental disabilities learn to improve their quality of life. Harbor diagnoses and treats autism and ADHD, offers employee assistance programs, helps those with disabilities write resumes and find jobs and counsels day cares and caregivers on how to work with children with behavioral challenges.

They offer a day habilitation program for adults with disabilities, health home services for certain populations, and primary care.

Harbor is counseling and so much more.

Harbor is a Partner of Choice. Partnering with numerous local agencies, service organizations and health care providers, Harbor works hand in hand to provide help to all who need it.

Harbor plans to be here for another 100 years by investing in their greatest asset: employees.

ProMedica – Locally Based, Nationally Recognized ProMedica is a not-for-profit healthcare network founded and headquartered in Toledo, Ohio. Every day, we help people improve their health and wellness by bringing together the best doctors, hospitals and resources in our 27-county region. We bring great depth of care in specialties ranging from heart and vascular to neurosciences and cancer. And we don’t stop there. While the clinical excellence of our staff and the quality of our care is second to none, the compassion of our service, innovation of our researchers, cost-efficiency, and easy access to services all have also become our hallmarks.

We’re proud to be the leading healthcare system in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. People have put their trust in us to care for what’s most important in their lives – the health of their family. That’s a trust and a privilege we never take for granted, and we humbly give it everything we’ve got every single day.

Our Hospitals: A Legacy of Caring for the Community ProMedica was formed in 1986, but our history runs much deeper. Our roots began more than 140 years ago when a group of churchwomen came together to care for the sick, aged and indigent of the Toledo community. Led by Mrs. Thomas Daniels, the Women’s Christian Association purchased property at 171 Union St. in Toledo. This community activism, focused on changing local health for the better, would become the foundation for the missions of ProMedica Toledo Hospital and, later, ProMedica.

Our 12 ProMedica hospitals span the region and form the basis of the ProMedica system, supporting each of our local communities. Each ProMedica hospital has earned national recognition for quality, excellence and

creating a better patient experience.

Our Physicians: Committed To Patients and Their Families Our commitment to this region can be measured by the care we provide through 4.4 million patient encounters each year. With more than 600 providers, our patients trust the care, compassion and expertise of our doctors and advanced practice providers. Our network continues to expand and currently has nearly 30 different types of specialty physicians. Our primary care physicians and their offices are recognized by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), a distinction few other systems in the nation can claim.

Beyond Inpatient Care: Services to Keep You Healthy The care from ProMedica doesn’t end when you leave the hospital. We offer a wide range of services to improve your daily life and support your health goals. Our services include long-term care, rehabilitation and sports care, at-home hospice, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, home infusion IV, senior, and pharmacy services. This exceptional continuity of care is accessible in each of our communities by our hospitals, doctors and you.

Beyond Medical Care: Additional support for the Communities We Serve Our mission doesn’t stop within the walls of our hospitals and medical

offices. In 2012, we provided nearly $130 million of community support across northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. More than 300 organizations benefited from ProMedica. Our ProMedica Advocacy Fund supports local nonprofit agencies, helping them fulfill the basic needs of residents, such as food, clothing and shelter. We partnered with the national Alliance to End Hunger and established the Hunger-Free Community to stop hunger locally by 2015. We also joined community organizations to form our Autism Collaborative and opened a center for early diagnosis, intervention, education, and family support.

toward preparing for our region’s future, we are working with the Cleveland Clinic to develop a health system affiliation. ProMedica and Cleveland Clinic are creating a clinically integrated network that will provide services of even greater quality, cost-effectiveness and technological advancement to the region and beyond.

Proud of our history and looking ahead to our future, ProMedica, our employees, doctors, nurses, board members, and volunteers loyally continue to serve the people who trust us to improve their health and well-being in the decades ahead.

The Future of Our Growth: Connected to Cleveland Clinic We strive to anticipate future needs and position ourselves in ways to best respond to the rapidly changing healthcare environment. As a step

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THE BLADE: TOLEDO, OHIO ■ SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2014

Cedar Point supports more Beyond Books: The Toledo-Lucas County family fun and our local economy.

Public Library Interacts With The Future The Toledo-Lucas County Public Library (TLCPL) has long delivered economic value to the local community by providing and facilitating access to a wealth of knowledge and information.

This makes our Library a great benefit to the community, and one that can measure the outcomes of our reach to its citizens in a cost-effective way. Our benefit to the greater Toledo region is beyond books – we are interacting with the future by providing invaluable information to the overall success of the populous.

The economic value of the services we provide – from downloadable access to eMedia to government data – puts our public library system at the crossroads of the regional and American economy. We offer nearly 3 million customers, who visit us annually, access to a delivery of new and innovative services under the categories of technology, education, information, job assistance, community and entertainment, and so much more. We are open to all and impact many.

A recent University of Toledo study calculated that TLCPL provides public services worth as much as $136 million a year — circulating books and other materials, supplying expert reference help, and offering other “value-added”

Cedar Point® amusement park and resort, voted the “Best Amusement Park in the World” for a record 16 consecutive years, will focus on family fun in 2014 with the introduction of two new rides, enhancements to the park’s Camp services such as access to computers, wireless connections, and meeting Snoopy area and several other new space. In other words, for every dollar additions. the library spends, the community gets While guests of all ages can enjoy nearly $3 in benefits. In essence, our these new additions when Cedar system directly affects every three out Point opens for the season on of four county residents.

Saturday, May 10, local companies The Library’s programs and services and their employees are already reveal a deep and long-standing commitment to the community. Historically benefitting from employment during and currently, the Library turns outward the winter months when construction and is present in the community. We projects are harder to come by. participate in planning groups. We form “We are proud to find the highlypartnerships and coalitions. We are skilled engineers and workers invited to sit on local boards created to needed to work on these projects solve the problems of early childhood, here locally,” said Jason McClure, or economic conditions, because we vice president and general manager have proven that our expertise is a valuable part of the solution. Our story of Cedar Point. “This area of the is more about impact than volume, and protecting our most valuable investment – the people we serve.

TLCPL also has a strong tradition of helping families succeed. We’re here for the whole person, for their entire life. Our customers share stories of lifelong use and the positive impact that TLCPL has provided our entire community. This type of commitment and impact from the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library system makes the community and the region a better place to live.

country is known for having some of the best skilled laborers and contractors in the world and you can see that in the well-built rides, buildings and attractions here at Cedar Point.”

Joining the park’s impressive lineup of rides next summer will be Pipe Scream, a Disk’O Coaster; and Lake Erie Eagles, a Flying Scooters ride. In addition to the new rides, there will be enhancements to the Camp Snoopy kids’ area, which will be celebrating 15 years of family fun at Cedar Point in 2014.

Cedar Point will be open daily, May 10 through Labor Day, September 1.

The park will be open Friday night, September 5; Sunday, September 7; and Friday nights, Saturdays and Sundays through Nov. 2. For more information, log on to www.cedarpoint.com.

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toledoBlade.com

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The Toledo Museum of Art: Toledo’s Treasure Box

Photo by Floto+Warner.

When anyone talks about the Toledo Region’s quality of life, the next sentence invariably includes the Toledo Museum of Art. It’s no wonder. The Toledo Museum of Art is a rarity—a world-class museum in a midsized, Midwest American city. Its treasures include works by van Gogh, Rembrandt, Hals, Picasso, Monet, and Rubens, as well as modern works by Chuck Close and Frank Stella—a total of 30,000 objects in one incredible collection.

Approximately 400,000 people from all over the world visit the Toledo Museum of Art each year. Many come for special exhibitions. Others come for the incredible collection of art glass — so large, it is housed in its own building. The Glass Pavilion, built in 2006 and designed by Tokyo-based SANAA, has won accolades from the New York Times and the Los Angeles Times, as well as a 2007 Travel+Leisure Design Award for Best Museum.

The Museum does more than showcase art. Classes for all ages, from

infants to seniors, teach everything from art appreciation to drawing and glassblowing.

Because there is so much to see and do, visitors can work up an appetite.

The Toledo Museum of Art’s café won the TripAdvisor 2013 Certificate of Excellence, and was rated first out of 616 area restaurants.

Toledo’s treasure, the Toledo Museum of Art, is free and open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, with special events every Thursday and Friday evening.

Photo by Floto+Warner.

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The Rocket Nation is bringing Toledo to millions Like the many roads leading into a metropolis, local, national and global communities are finding the varied ways to connect with The University of Toledo through Rocket athletics as the proverbial “front doors” to campus expand exponentially.

The career and success of the women’s basketball team, led by Coach Tricia Cullop and Naama Shafir, brought a national title to the Glass City and international recognition for Shafir’s excellence, her religious conviction and the team’s fierce commitment and devotion to each other.

Tod Kowalczyk has led the men’s basketball team back to prominence, a fact recognized by the New York Times and USA Today. The team began with an undefeated start to the season, and Julius Brown’s last-second jumper to beat Buffalo caught the attention of ESPN’s Top Plays producer.

Even the bow ties the basketball team will wear Feb. 5 as part of the fourth annual Tie One On event to raise money for cancer care, awareness and outreach have reached national audiences. For two straight years, UT’s bow tie has been seen by baseball fans across the nation when Fox Sports analyst Ken Rosenthal wore it during his World Series coverage.

Tigers and Red Wings fans see evidence of the Rocket Nation and The University of Toledo at every home game they attend. And a lot of these fans are choosing UT. Since the University began advertising in Detroit and southeast Michigan in 2006, there has been an increase of 70 percent – nearly 1,000 students – who have crossed the border to make the Rockets their home team.

While national exposure on ESPN for UT sporting events is the front door to UT for the largest number of people — UT’s 2011 football game against Boise State alone introduced 2.7 million viewers to the Glass

Bowl and the Rocket Nation — that attention is serving to highlight the academic, research and economic strength of The University of Toledo.

Just this week, UT officials are returning from the World Future Energy Summit, an annual conference in Abu Dhabi that serves as the preeminent gathering for those investigating in the future of clean energy that will be so necessary to the long-term survival of our species.

One of only a handful of American universities attend the event and this is the sixth year UT will have an active role. UT researchers in solar energy, biofuels and water desalination are among the world’s leaders in pursuing research integral to advanced and developing countries alike.

While those in the United Arab Emirates look to the future, UT researchers in Arizona are peering into the past. The Discovery Channel Telescope in Flagstaff, Ariz. is one of the newest telescopes in the world.

With its 4.3 meter lens, UT astronomers are using this advanced technology to discover the origins of planets, solar systems, stars and galaxies.

UT researchers are working to fight algal blooms and turn them into biofuel, halt international sex trafficking, and increase the number of available kidneys for transplantation.

An international clinical trial led by a UT professor and physician recently discovered medicine, not surgery, is the best treatment for a specific type of high blood pressure. And that just scratches the surface.

In each instance, not only did the scientific and research communities benefit, but millions of people across the nation learned about these advancements in the national media.

For many, their connection with the Rocket Nation is that newspaper article laying out a brighter future, thanks to a new discovery or new knowledge created at The University of Toledo.

The Rocket Nation’s primary export is our students. With more than 130,000 alumni around the globe and more than 5,000 new graduates each year, UT is creating the educated workforce to drive the global economy and the next generation of leaders.

Programs like the advanced teambased simulation training students in the health sciences receive, the co-op and internship programs experienced by students in the Colleges of Engineering and Business and Innovation, and the state-wide Intern in Ohio initiative are all ways UT is empowering students and giving them the tools to start their careers with more experience, more confidence and a greater understanding of employers’ expectations.

In the College of Engineering, local companies as well as those with global reach come back to UT time and time again to fill their co-op positions.

In engineering – like many other fields of study at UT – being a member of the Rocket Nation symbolizes the intelligence, curiosity and innovative thinking engineering firms crave. It is a reputation built slowly over time that current students and recent graduates strengthen and reinforce.

The University of Toledo Medical Center is home to some of the most advanced care in the region and the destination for patients with complex conditions to receive care from some of the world’s leading medical specialists at the academic medical center.

One family lobbied to change Greek law and traveled from that nation to the Rocket Nation to undergo a kidney transplant.

Ranked as a best hospital in the region by U.S. News and World Report for the past three years, UTMC is providing top-tier health care while teaching the next generation of health care providers. That dual mission mandates the constant push to adopt and administer the most up-to-date

clinical techniques and ensures that UT-trained physicians and clinicians deliver University-quality care.

As the global community grows smaller and more interconnected, the Rocket Nation is surging. UT is teaching students in India, China, Egypt and throughout Europe. UT students are studying abroad and connecting with others in dozens of countries across the globe.

There is no one entry point to the Rocket Nation. UT is a global institution now more than ever.

With so many technological and electronic access points and physical locations, all roads lead to The University of Toledo.

The Toledo Zoo: Enhancing Quality of Life For Toledoans of All Species More than a century after a humble start with just one animal – a woodchuck – the Zoo remains a cherished part of the community and a top destination for tourists.

A lot has changed since the woodchuck days, with every season offering something new.

This year, visitors can explore Penguin Beach, a new walkthrough encounter. It’s part of a year-long celebration of flight, from flamingos and flying reptiles to bats, butterflies and more.

The focus on flight enhances the attractions available Zoo-wide.

Visitors get close to orangutans and gorillas in Kingdom of the Apes, while lemurs, monkeys and gibbons show off their acrobatics in Primate Forest. The Zoo is also home to a historic Reptile House,

an award-winning Aviary and an elephant exhibit, unveiled in 2012, that is ranked among the nation’s best in terms of its vertical enrichment.

A panoramic Africa! experience, open during warm weather, lets visitors see giraffes, wildebeest, zebra and more together in one multispecies exhibit. Nearby, the Arctic Encounter showcases polar bears, seals and wolves.

Young visitors love Nature’s Neighborhood, the year-round children’s zoo that has been named one of the country’s best.

Rides on the Safari Railway and the African Animal Carousel round out the fun of a family visit. Then, of course, there’s lunch at the Carnivore Café, where lions, tigers and other big cats once lived.

Dynamic Toledo Zoo animals like Baru have inspired visitors to care about animals and the natural world. Baru arrived in 2013 through the support of Block Communications, Inc. Photo: Toledo Zoo/R. Andrew Odum

Penguin Beach, a dynamic new walk-through penguin exhibit, opens May 23.

Photo: Toledo Zoo/Andi Norman

Community support A big part of the Zoo’s success comes from the longtime loyalty of Lucas County voters, who provide about one fourth of the Zoo’s revenue through levy support.

In return for this support, the Zoo admits Lucas County residents free on more than 50 days each year, including non-holiday Monday mornings, Martin Luther King Day weekend, President’s Day weekend and Christmas Eve. Throughout the rest of the year, Lucas County residents get discounted admission during regular Zoo hours.

This support has helped enable the Zoo to become the region’s leading attraction. The Zoo also provides more than 700 local jobs, and works with local suppliers

and contract service providers on exciting projects and exhibits all across the Zoo. Excellent animal care At the center of it all are the Zoo’s 6,000-plus animals.

Dedication to top-notch care for these animals shows in dynamic exhibits like Tembo Trail, home to four African elephants, including “little” Lucas who was born in 2011. Not far from Tembo Trail, the new crocodile solarium has brought hundreds of thousands of visitors eye to eye with Baru, the largest saltwater crocodile in North America.

The excellence continues with Penguin Beach, opening May 23, and the newly renovated Aquarium, reopening in the first half of 2015.

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Fort Meigs: Ohio’s War of 1812 Battlefield Hear the crackle of muskets and roar of cannons when you visit Fort Meigs, the largest wooden-walled fort in the United States. This National Historic Landmark sits on its original location along the historic Maumee River. The seven blockhouses, five artillery batteries and numerous earthworks appear much as they did during the spring of 1813.

History lovers will enjoy touring our museum full of original War of 1812 artifacts, many found at the fort. Historical interpreters dressed in 1812 clothing present demonstrations of camp life, weapons, and other activities throughout the summer. Reenactments and special events further highlight America’s rich military history.

Fort Meigs in the War of 1812 Fort Meigs, built during the War of 1812, was a strategic fortification along the banks of the Maumee River in present day Perrysburg, Ohio. The fort withstood two British sieges in 1813 and became a turning point in the war for the American forces.

It was these two victories at Fort Meigs that marked a turning point in the western theater of war in favor of the American forces. The victories at Fort Meigs were followed by successive American victories at Fort Stephenson, the Battle of Lake Erie, and finally at the Battle of the Thames where the British forces were thoroughly defeated, and the pan-Indian confederacy allied with the British was broken. The U.S. victories, starting at Fort Meigs, secured the western Great Lakes in American control, and established the cultural and

geographic boundaries that exist still today.

Fort Meigs Today The Ohio Historical Society reconstructed the fort in the 1970s and most recently in 2003. The Fort Meigs Association, a local 501c3 non-profit, manages 70 acres of the original battlefield on behalf of the historical society and the State of Ohio.

Guests step back in time to the spring of 1813 when touring the fort. Exhibits in the fort’s blockhouses describe the life of a soldier, the building of the fort, and dramatic accounts of the two sieges against the fort in 1813.

A modern visitor center houses classrooms (that can be rented), a museum store, and a museum. The museum exhibits tell fascinating stories about early Ohio, the War of 1812, the impact of the war in Ohio, and how historians and archaeologists learned what happened at the fort. Important artifact collections are featured in the museum exhibits, including War of 1812 weapons, accouterments, uniforms and personal items of soldiers.

Reenactments, hands-on programs, and special events truly bring the fort back to life and engage guests in the history of the War of 1812.

The museum and visitor center are open year around, Wednesday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. The fort itself is open for touring from April through the end of October. Start your visit at www.fortmeigs. org and learn more about what Fort Meigs has to offer.

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the jdi group: A Leader In The A/E Community Recently cited as a Top Work Place in Toledo by The Blade and Monster.com, the jdi group, Inc. is one of Northwest Ohio’s fastest growing architectural and engineering firms.

Founded in 2002, the jdi group has grown to 80+ professionals providing such services as mechanical, electrical, civil, structural, chemical, and process engineering; architecture; and controls and instrumentation. Much of the firm’s success can be attributed to its diversification.

“We purposely organized ourselves to serve a variety of clients and markets,” states Tim Fry, one jdi ’s founding principals. “It’s our goal to provide dedicated services to each of our clients, regardless of the type of project they hire us to design.”

This philosophy is working. Clients such as General Motors, General Mills, BP Husky, Honda, Marathon, Johns-Manville, Smuckers, The

University of Toledo and Eastern Michigan University have commissioned jdi for multiple projects over the past dozen years.

One area in which jdi is becoming well known is Building Information Modeling (BIM). A technology that merges the data, materials, drawings, and documents of a project, BIM allows the architect/engineer to produce 3-D models and apply design alternatives, instantly checking their impact on the final project and cost.

“We have used BIM on our projects for ten years and plan to continue to be a leader in this area of our business,” says Fry. Whether it’s the company’s diversification, philosophy of client service, or use of BIM, the jdi group has become a force to be reckoned with in the design and construction industry.

GenoaBank believes “bigger is not better” when it comes to banking.

A small business itself, GenoaBank provides banking options that cater to small businesses, such as its 2-3 Small Business Loan: two-day commercial loan decisions and, if approved, a three-week closing guarantee. That’s the benefit of local, down-to-earth timely service.

For consumers, GenoaBank prides itself on being a community bank that offers quick, locally-made loan decisions and truly takes your banking needs personally.

Recently, GenoaBank broke ground for its seventh location. The new Sylvania Township facility at Monroe Street and Whiteford Road marks its entry into western Lucas County. The new branch is part of a $2.4 million investment to expand service and convenience for area customers. A mid-summer 2014 opening is planned.

“The Sylvania branch will provide

access for both new and existing customers,” stated Martin P. Sutter, President and CEO of GenoaBank.

“This investment provides tangible proof of the strength of our organization and our commitment to growing our brand to meet the needs of our customers.”

Dedicated to community support and engagement, GenoaBank looks forward to becoming an integral part of the Sylvania community. Established in 1902, the independent community bank also has branches in Elmore, Maumee, Millbury, Oregon and Rossford.

At GenoaBank, the top priority is meeting customer needs with exceptional services, quick decisions made locally, innovative products and great rates that only local ownership can deliver. Committed to outstanding service, community involvement and strategic growth, GenoaBank strives to be Northwest Ohio’s premier community bank.

GenoaBank Takes Your Banking Needs Personally

The Toledo Lucas County Port Authority: A Story of Growth, Innovation and Planning The villages of Port Lawrence and Vistula were already ports on the Maumee River, at the western end of Lake Erie, when they merged in 1833 to form the city of Toledo.

Toledo quickly became one of the major transshipping ports on the Great Lakes - handling grain, flour, butter, pork and lumber. Through the years, the seaport began to grow exponentially, and is now the largest landmass seaport on the Great Lakes. The Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority, the first port authority created in the state of Ohio in 1955, was established for the development of overseas shipping facilities.

Today, the Port Authority continues to work diligently not only in expanding and modernizing operations at the Port of Toledo, but by making strides on the expansion of all of the community’s transportation assets.

The Port also has a continued investment in redeveloping the region’s brownfields and fostering economic growth in northwest Ohio.

Recent successes at Toledo Express Airport include the completion of an $11 million overlay of the airport’s main runway, the beginning of a long term partnership with cargo carriers Sierra West and Northern Air Cargo, nonstop service to Ft. Myers, Florida on Allegiant Airlines, and new energy efficiency upgrades in the airfield and terminal building. The airport also saw an overall year-overyear 11 percent increase in passenger traffic. In the coming years, the Port will build on this positive momentum and work with its partners to identify new business opportunities at both of its airports.

After sitting vacant for more than 20 years on Front Street in east

Toledo, the Port has led the effort to redevelop the former Gulf Oil property into a new Ironville terminal. Over $18.5 million in improvements were made to the new intermodal facility that has access to truck, rail, ship and pipeline. This new terminal will create much needed jobs for our community and significantly contribute to the Port of Toledo’s economic impact in the Toledo Region.

Overland Industrial Park, formerly known as the Jeep property, holds great promise for development of new jobs and commerce for the Toledo Region. To date, more than $8.5 million has been invested to remediate the land and to install a new roadway. Under the Port’s leadership, Overland has been prepared for the next chapter of redevelopment, which includes the construction of two new facilities this spring.

The Port Authority’s operations at the airports and seaport alone support more than 10,000 jobs and have an annual economic impact of over $1 billion on the local economy; while the Port’s innovative business financing has assisted more than 300 projects with an investment of nearly $1.1 billion and a creation and retention of nearly 16,000 jobs.

There is a continued spirit of cooperation in our community; the Port Authority and its partners work diligently to bring new opportunities to northwest Ohio, and the collaborative effort put forth by this group will contribute to the successes of the Toledo Region. The Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority is dedicated to moving our community forward, and through these efforts, we’ll all do better in Toledo.

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toledoBlade.com

THE BLADE: TOLEDO, OHIO ■ SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2014

THE BLADE: TOLEDO, OHIO ■ SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2014

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Lucas County The Core of the Region

Lucas County, Ohio encompasses approximately 340 square miles and packs an economic punch.

We are situated along the fertile Lake Erie shoreline, creating a perfect transportation hub with access to sea, land, and air routes — one of the few places in the country to boast all three. The Port of Toledo is one of the most active on the Great Lakes, allowing shipping through the lakes and the St. Lawrence Seaway. Multiple rail lines converge in Lucas County, and Toledo Express Airport is an ideal freight and passenger hub. With intermodal transportation growing in popularity, Lucas County is all that your business requires.

Lucas County at a Glance

Business owners would state that human resources are their most important asset. Lucas County offers a highly-skilled workforce that is prepared to meet your needs. We work to ensure sustainable growth and economic opportunity for our residents. Those new to our area are continually impressed at our high quality of life and low cost of living.

With educational opportunities abounding — from high quality elementary schools to more than a dozen institutions of higher learning within an hour of Lucas County, including many within our borders — parents can know their children will grow up ready to take on the world.

Home to:

• 11 townships • 11 municipalities • 11 school districts • 7 colleges & universities • 20 library branches • 8 hospitals

The Role of County Government County government was established in Ohio in 1788 as the administrative arm of the territorial government. Today, it serves the same purpose for the state, although the structure has changed and its range of responsibilities has increased.

There are certain state-mandated services that all counties must provide, such as: property tax assessment and collection, land records, election administration, public welfare and social services, and certain legal and judicial services that apply throughout the County.

The cultural offerings of Lucas County are also quite impressive: a world-class art museum; the famous Toledo Mud Hens baseball team; Fifth Third Field; the Toledo Walleye hockey team; Huntington Center; our ever-expanding zoo; an interactive science museum; and a convenient, safe and exciting Metroparks system, as well as many municipal parks. There is something to do for nearly every age group nearly every day of the week, from concerts to art exhibits to sporting events and more.

State law also permits counties to perform certain functions for their residents if they so choose. Discretionary powers exercised by Lucas County include parks and recreation, drainage, and economic development.

Responsibility for County government is shared by the Ohio General Assembly, which has legislative power; the County courts, which have judicial power; and the three-member Board of County Commissioners and eight other elected officials, county Auditor, county Clerk of Courts, county Coroner, county Engineer, county Prosecutor, county Recorder, county Sheriff and county Treasurer, all of who hold administrative power.

Lucas County is not merely the core of Northwest Ohio.

It is our region’s heart.

Important Lucas County Phone Numbers: Auditor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4406 Board of County Commissioners . . . . . . . . .419-213-4500 Board of Elections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4001 Building Regulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-2990 Canine Care & Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .419-213-2800 Clerk of Courts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4484 Clerk of the Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4511 Common Pleas Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4777 Coroner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .419-213-3900 County Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4535 Court of Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4755 Domestic Relations Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-6850 Economic Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4545 Emergency Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-6532 Engineer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-2860 Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-6465 Job and Family Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-8999 Juvenile Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-6722 Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .419-380-4000

Formed: June 20, 1835 Population: 437,998 Land in Square Miles: 340.86

Lucas County Children Services . . . . . . . . .419-213-3200 Lucas County Family Council . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-725-7190 Lucas County Land Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4293 Mental Health & Recovery Services Board of Lucas County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .419-213-4600 Office of Management and Budget . . . . . . . 419-213-4536 Probate Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4775 Prosecutor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .419-213-4700 Recorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .419-213-4400 Sanitary Engineer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-2926 Sheriff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .419-213-4900 Toledo-Lucas County Health Department . . 419-213-4100 Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4303 Veterans Service Commission . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-6090 Workforce Development Agency . . . . . . . . .419-213-6300 Receive text messages or emails notifying you of emergencies in your area, such as a tornado warning, snow emergency, or boil advisory. Sign up for this free service by visiting lucascountyalerts.com.

The voters of Lucas County elect each of the County’s eleven administrative officials for four-year terms. The terms of the three commissioners are staggered, but all are of equal rank, and they elect their own president. The eight other elected officials function as independent administrative heads of their respective offices.

The salaries for all county elected officials is set by the Ohio General Assembly and varies with the population of the county.

The County also has a number of semi-independent boards and commissions, which participate in County government. State law and the County Commissioners determine their powers and revenue sources.

For more information about Lucas County, visit

co.lucas.oh.us

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toledoBlade.com

THE BLADE: TOLEDO, OHIO ■ SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2014

THE BLADE: TOLEDO, OHIO ■ SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2014

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Lucas County The Core of the Region

Lucas County, Ohio encompasses approximately 340 square miles and packs an economic punch.

We are situated along the fertile Lake Erie shoreline, creating a perfect transportation hub with access to sea, land, and air routes — one of the few places in the country to boast all three. The Port of Toledo is one of the most active on the Great Lakes, allowing shipping through the lakes and the St. Lawrence Seaway. Multiple rail lines converge in Lucas County, and Toledo Express Airport is an ideal freight and passenger hub. With intermodal transportation growing in popularity, Lucas County is all that your business requires.

Lucas County at a Glance

Business owners would state that human resources are their most important asset. Lucas County offers a highly-skilled workforce that is prepared to meet your needs. We work to ensure sustainable growth and economic opportunity for our residents. Those new to our area are continually impressed at our high quality of life and low cost of living.

With educational opportunities abounding — from high quality elementary schools to more than a dozen institutions of higher learning within an hour of Lucas County, including many within our borders — parents can know their children will grow up ready to take on the world.

Home to:

• 11 townships • 11 municipalities • 11 school districts • 7 colleges & universities • 20 library branches • 8 hospitals

The Role of County Government County government was established in Ohio in 1788 as the administrative arm of the territorial government. Today, it serves the same purpose for the state, although the structure has changed and its range of responsibilities has increased.

There are certain state-mandated services that all counties must provide, such as: property tax assessment and collection, land records, election administration, public welfare and social services, and certain legal and judicial services that apply throughout the County.

The cultural offerings of Lucas County are also quite impressive: a world-class art museum; the famous Toledo Mud Hens baseball team; Fifth Third Field; the Toledo Walleye hockey team; Huntington Center; our ever-expanding zoo; an interactive science museum; and a convenient, safe and exciting Metroparks system, as well as many municipal parks. There is something to do for nearly every age group nearly every day of the week, from concerts to art exhibits to sporting events and more.

State law also permits counties to perform certain functions for their residents if they so choose. Discretionary powers exercised by Lucas County include parks and recreation, drainage, and economic development.

Responsibility for County government is shared by the Ohio General Assembly, which has legislative power; the County courts, which have judicial power; and the three-member Board of County Commissioners and eight other elected officials, county Auditor, county Clerk of Courts, county Coroner, county Engineer, county Prosecutor, county Recorder, county Sheriff and county Treasurer, all of who hold administrative power.

Lucas County is not merely the core of Northwest Ohio.

It is our region’s heart.

Important Lucas County Phone Numbers: Auditor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4406 Board of County Commissioners . . . . . . . . .419-213-4500 Board of Elections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4001 Building Regulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-2990 Canine Care & Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .419-213-2800 Clerk of Courts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4484 Clerk of the Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4511 Common Pleas Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4777 Coroner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .419-213-3900 County Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4535 Court of Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4755 Domestic Relations Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-6850 Economic Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4545 Emergency Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-6532 Engineer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-2860 Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-6465 Job and Family Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-8999 Juvenile Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-6722 Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .419-380-4000

Formed: June 20, 1835 Population: 437,998 Land in Square Miles: 340.86

Lucas County Children Services . . . . . . . . .419-213-3200 Lucas County Family Council . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-725-7190 Lucas County Land Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4293 Mental Health & Recovery Services Board of Lucas County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .419-213-4600 Office of Management and Budget . . . . . . . 419-213-4536 Probate Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4775 Prosecutor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .419-213-4700 Recorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .419-213-4400 Sanitary Engineer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-2926 Sheriff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .419-213-4900 Toledo-Lucas County Health Department . . 419-213-4100 Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-4303 Veterans Service Commission . . . . . . . . . . . 419-213-6090 Workforce Development Agency . . . . . . . . .419-213-6300 Receive text messages or emails notifying you of emergencies in your area, such as a tornado warning, snow emergency, or boil advisory. Sign up for this free service by visiting lucascountyalerts.com.

The voters of Lucas County elect each of the County’s eleven administrative officials for four-year terms. The terms of the three commissioners are staggered, but all are of equal rank, and they elect their own president. The eight other elected officials function as independent administrative heads of their respective offices.

The salaries for all county elected officials is set by the Ohio General Assembly and varies with the population of the county.

The County also has a number of semi-independent boards and commissions, which participate in County government. State law and the County Commissioners determine their powers and revenue sources.

For more information about Lucas County, visit

co.lucas.oh.us

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toledoBlade.com

THE BLADE: TOLEDO, OHIO ■ SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2014

The Pride of Our Commuity Toledo Mud Hens baseball and Toledo Walleye hockey are more than sports teams. They reflect community pride, fun times, a caring spirit, economic power and the joy of family experiences.

Our story parallels the continuing evolution of the entire Toledo Region.

It is a story of vision, dedication, collaboration and leadership powered by enlightened corporate support.

Toledo Supports Its Teams Since 2002, nearly eight million fans have attended games at Fifth Third Field and Huntington Center, which opened in 2009. Toledo was recently named the “#1 Minor League Sports Market in America“ by the prestigious Sports Business Journal. While quite an impressive accomplishment to surpass 235 other markets, it underscores the dedication and support of our Toledo Region community.

The Mud Hens Experience When the Mud Hens moved downtown in 2002, Newsweek called it “The best ballpark in the Minors.”

It was the beginning of exciting, sometimes challenging times in a sluggish regional economy. Today, our Mud Hens enjoy great success and fans love the family-oriented, affordable, enjoyable activity. Our corporate and community partners play a key role in supporting our mission of affordable fun.

The Walleye Experience The Toledo Walleye are in their fifth season at the fabulous Huntington Center arena, with attendance growing each year. We welcomed our one millionth Walleye fan on January 12.

The Toledo region has a long and storied history of supporting hockey.

Our base of game plan holders has grown each year and hundreds of businesses and groups host parties in the arena during Walleye games.

Concerts and Family Events Huntington Center is ranked by Venues Today Magazine as one of the “Top 8 Venues in the World” with under 10,000 seats. Family shows and concerts have included Elton John, Bob Seger, Kid Rock, Michael Bublé, Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Keith Urban, Cirque du Soleil, and others.

Toledo Walleye Winterfest Walleye Winterfest presented by ProMedica will be held from December 26, 2014 to January 4, 2015. It will feature the first two outdoor hockey games in ECHL history. The Mud Hens field will be transformed into a professional hockey rink for Walleye games on December 27, 2014 and January 3, 2015.

Coming Soon: Mudville The Mud Hens and Walleye have been important catalysts for development, with dozens of new businesses opening nearby. We are currently developing Mudville: a new dining, entertainment, office and retail complex adjacent to our headquarters.

We expect this $24 million development to be completed in 2016.

Two Teams, One Mission: Affordable Fun We work every day to maintain that focus and fan expectation. The reality is that we could not achieve our mission without community and corporate support. We thank businesses and individuals who commit to Walleye and Mud Hens game plans, host parties and entertain friends and family at the games. They do it because it’s a wonderful, memorable experience game after game.

To learn more about available opportunities, call 419-725-4367 or visit ToledoWalleye.com or Mudhens.com.

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THE BLADE: TOLEDO, OHIO ■ SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2014

Mercy is a neighbor who knows you Mercy has always remembered why we opened our doors 159 years ago: to care for people. To get to know patients and tend to their unique health needs. To look out for the Toledo area community. At Mercy, creating a healthier community is the very reason we exist.

The new year is a good time to remember and reflect on this idea.

Improving community health drives us to deliver unexpected solutions for changing healthcare needs. Because we know and understand our patients, Mercy proactively creates unique programs, facilities, and services to meet community needs.

At every step, we hold fast to the belief that effective healthcare requires caring. It requires compassion. It requires a sense of humanity that treats each patient as an individual person.

That’s our mission.

Healthcare options for individual needs Mercy serves the healthcare needs of 20 counties in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. As a faith-based, not-for-profit health system, Mercy is dedicated to helping all in need, regardless of their ability to pay.

In other words, we have a commitment to bring quality healthcare resources to the community and a great capacity to do so.

To serve such a large, diverse community, Mercy offers a broad network of healthcare facilities and services.

Primary care, critical care, community outreach, health clinics, outpatient services, specialized and emergency care centers–it’s comprehensive care that caters to individual needs.

Mercy hospitals have been part of the community for years: Mercy St. Vincent Medical Center, Mercy Children’s Hospital, Mercy St. Charles Hospital, Mercy St. Anne Hospital, Mercy Tiffin Hospital, Mercy Willard Hospital, and Mercy Defiance Hospital.

One-of-a-kind care in times of great need Our mission has led us to develop unique healthcare solutions. We are consistently reaching out to our patients and physicians, learning about specific health needs, and designing facilities and services to fill those needs. As a result, Mercy has the area’s only free-standing cardiovascular center, free-standing emergency center, and senior ER. For years, Mercy has been synonymous with the very best in heart health. The Mercy Heart & Vascular Center opened in response to the area’s high rates of heart disease and stroke. This nationally recognized center coordinates care through highly skilled physicians, technicians and nurses who pioneer new technologies and new techniques.

The area’s only free-standing Emergency Center, located at Mercy Medical Center – Perrysburg, provides accessible care with quick turnaround. In fact, it is a full-service, high-level emergency center, staffed by board-certified physicians using the latest diagnostic technology.

Nearly 20 percent of all seniors use the ER at least once a year. When they do, they often have a higher level of anxiety. So Mercy introduced the Mercy Senior ER at St. Anne –calmer, more comfortable and simpler than a typical ER experience.

Patients interact with staff who are specially trained in the unique needs of patients age 60 and older.

A leader in treating patients as people Mercy is the first in Ohio to create a patient-controlled environment for those undergoing a mammogram or an MRI exam. Located at Mercy Medical Center in Perrysburg, The SensorySuite puts women in control of the mammogram experience. The patient chooses the décor on the wall, the sounds she hears – even the fragrance added to the room. In

a similar way, our MR Caring Suite allows MRI patients to choose their own scenery and music, creating a more calming atmosphere.

Mercy is the first in Toledo to introduce MyChart, an electronic health record that helps patients and doctors communicate. From a phone, tablet or computer, patients can request appointments, check lab results, refill a prescription – even ask their doctor a question -- 24 hours a day. With MyChart, patients have everything they need to manage their health, wherever they are.

The Mercy Robotic Surgery Center at Mercy St. Vincent was the first in the region to introduce this advanced technology. During our 10 years as a pioneer in robotic surgery, Mercy has performed a number of ‘firsts’ in cardio thoracic, bariatric, urology and gynecology.

Care, compassion and convenience Our mission is not only bringing healthcare services to the community. It’s bringing services that address the needs of real people dealing with real life situations.

When time is short, our Regional Telemedicine Program can help patients in remote hospitals receive expert stroke care in minutes.

Through video feed and electronic, real-time data sharing, patients can receive an earlier diagnosis and treatment through this partnership with physicians at Mercy St. Vincent who specialize in stroke care.

When an injury happens, the Mercy Sports Medicine program helps athletes of all kinds, from weekend warriors to student athletes. Now serving more than 30 area schools and sports clubs, we coordinate and expedite the entire process of care, from diagnosis and treatment to procedures and rehab.

When weight becomes a health issue, the Mercy Weight Management Center understands. People may be over-

A MERCY SNAPSHOT $8.5 million* in outreach programs and screenings

$27.6 million* in free care to the poor and underserved

$86.5 million* in total community benefit

More than 275 physicians in the Mercy Medical Partners network

2,500 affiliated medical staff members 7,500 employees 7 hospitals in Northwest Ohio

Mercy is part of Catholic Health Partners, the largest health system in Ohio: 33,000 employees the fourth largest employer in the state

23 hospitals $385.4 million* in total community benefit

$5.6 billion in assets

*2012 Community Benefit

weight for many different reasons. If it’s medical, we offer many solutions, including bariatric surgery. If it’s lifestyle, we can create a supervised weight loss program. In all cases, we take a comprehensive, individualized approach.

Mercy is proud of the unique role we play in this community. Our legacy of caring, compassion and innovation has been our promise for 159 years.

Today, tomorrow and far into the future, we will continue to develop new ways to deliver Toledo’s finest healthcare.

There’s No Place Like Hollywood For big-time players and everyday fun-seekers who are looking for endless action and dazzling indulgence, there’s really only one destination: Hollywood Casino Toledo. Quite simply, it’s the ultimate in star-studded fun and electrifying entertainment.

even video poker and keno in every denomination from pennies all the way up to $100.

Hollywood is now casting winners for more than 60 world-class table games and 30 electrifying poker tables, from blackjack to minibaccarat, pai gow poker, craps,

Take in the glittering lights, the sights and sounds, the plush red carpet that stretches on in every direction for as far as the fun will take you. It’s a non-stop jolt of Hollywood-style action that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Boasting more than 290,000 square feet of superstar gaming, fabulous dining, and the kind of star treatment you won’t find anywhere else, here anything can happen and the fun never ends. It’s a spectacular casino featuring some of the best gaming you’ve ever experienced, from big-time blackjack to blockbuster jackpots and all the winning you can handle.

It’s a world of incredible action featuring more than 2,000 new and exciting slots, including all your favorites and the latest games like Betty Boop’s Love Meter, Grease, Pirates Jackpot and Rock Around the Clock, to name a few. There’s

roulette, Let It Ride, Texas Hold ‘Em and Omaha. Come bet on black. Let it ride. Win big. This is Vegas-style table action at its finest.

Maybe you’re looking for a little action of a different sort? Look no further than H Lounge, one of the area’s hottest nightspots featuring live entertainment, delicious cocktails and the coolest crowd.

Or try Scene, Toledo’s greatest sports bar, featuring all the best professional and college action on our huge-screen hi-def TV’s as you dine on famous Hollywood fries, wings, tasty burgers and the best drink specials in town.

Discover an award-winning dining experience that’s a cut above at Final Cut Steak & Seafood. Savor our thick, juicy steaks, succulent seafood fresh from the ocean and one of the most impressive selections of wine. Top it all off with one of our decadent desserts.

For a larger-than-life feast prepared fresh daily, try a buffet that could only be called Epic. Enjoy all your American favorites like baked ham, roasted turkey, meatloaf, fine seafood specialties and a savory array of sides and salads to the most authentic Italian and Asian dishes you’ve ever had. Or, take a quick break from winning at the Take 2 Grill featuring huge sandwiches, hamburgers, hotdogs and your favorite snacks made fast and delicious.

For those who want to get the most out of their Hollywood experience, there’s the Marquee Rewards® card. Use it every time you play and you’ll earn rewards for SlotPlay® Credits, delicious dining at incredible restaurants, entries into exciting promotions and giveaways.

Plus, you’ll earn tier points at lots of fabulous casinos: Hollywood Casino Toledo, Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg and Hollywood Casino Columbus. Best of all, with combined play on one superstar card, you’ll earn bigger comps and reach higher tier status faster than ever before. It’s free to join. Just visit Player Services for details.

Take advantage of the big-time fun and action-packed winning with Hollywood Casino’s many giveaways and tournaments. No matter what

day of the week, you could win luxurious cars, fabulous vacations, huge cash prizes, Free SlotPlay® Credits and more.

Since day one, Hollywood Casino has played a leading role here in the Toledo community. From neighborhood non-profits to local economic engines such as the Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Toledo Rotary, Hollywood proudly supports the people and businesses of Northwest Ohio.

The casino continues to make a difference every day through their work with the NAACP of Greater Toledo, March of Dimes, American Red Cross, the Jamie Farr Golf Classic, St. Paul’s Community Center, Boys and Girls Club of Toledo and the local YMCA to name just a few.

From one of the area’s largest casino floors to a wide variety of delicious dining, live music and incredible nightlife, Hollywood Casino Toledo has fast become the area’s premier gaming and entertainment destination.

For more information, visit hollywoodcasinotoledo.com.

RG TAG: Must be 21. ©2014 Penn National Gaming, Inc. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-589-9966.

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The Andersons, Inc. What began as a single grain elevator and one man’s dream has grown into a publicly traded company known for growing enduring relationships through extraordinary service, a deep knowledge of the market and a knack for finding new ways to add value. The Andersons is a diversified company rooted in agriculture conducting business across North America in the grain, ethanol, and plant nutrient sectors, railcar leasing, turf and cob products, and consumer retailing.

Currently, the company has operations in 19 states as well as Puerto Rico and railcar fleets extending into Canada and Mexico.

Throughout all of its business endeavors, the company and its 3,200 employees are committed to providing extraordinary service with the utmost integrity.

Agribusiness The company currently operates grain elevators, fertilizer distribution terminals, and farm centers in Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Florida, Nebraska, Iowa, Tennessee, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Puerto Rico. Collectively, these facilities store 141 million bushels of grain, ship 378 million bushels of grain and manufacture and store 2.1 million tons of dry and liquid agricultural nutrient products annually.

The company operates four ethanol plants for respective LLCs in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Iowa that are collectively capable of producing 330 million gallons of ethanol. The plants also manufacture and distribute the co-product dried distillers grains (DDGS), an animal feed ingredient that contributes more energy and protein to animals than corn. E85, for use in Flex-Fuel Vehicles, is produced at the plants and distributed directly to gasoline retailers.

Railcar Leasing & Repair The Andersons ranks eighth among privately-owned railcar fleets in North

America. The Andersons repairs, sells, manages, and leases various types of railcars and locomotives, offers fleet management services to private railcar owners, operates a custom steel fabrication business and 19 railcar repair facilities across the United States. The Andersons has the ability to design and fabricate components, reconfigure the railcars, then sell or lease the refurbished cars to its customers.

Turf & Specialty Products The Andersons is a leading supplier of turf and ornamental plant fertilizer and control products. Its premium small particle granular fertilizer is produced from a combination of premium turf nutrients, patented dispersing granule technology and a special manufacturing process.

The Andersons is also the largest manufacturer of corncob-based products which are primarily produced for small animal bedding, cat litter and chemical and feed ingredient carriers.

Retail A distinctive mix of products, reputation for value, and excellent customer service make The Andersons a strong competitor in the crowded retail market. The company operates four large, big box stores in Ohio, offering a broad blend of consumer products and services, from power tools to fine wines. Its specialty food store in Sylvania, The Andersons Market, focuses on fresh and specialty foods with extensive meat, wine and produce selections.

Commitment to Community The Andersons believes in generously sharing time, talents and financial resources to support and strengthen the communities we serve, as well as contributing a reasonable portion of our profits to charitable causes “in pursuit of our fundamental goal of serving God by serving others.”

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Heidtman Steel 2014 marks the 60th Anniversary of Heidtman Steel Products Inc. Established in 1954, and headquartered in Toledo, Heidtman Steel Products is a privately owned company offering both steel sales and steel processing services. Heidtman Steel provides a variety of flat rolled carbon steel products from 9 direct and joint venture processing facilities. The company’s captive services include, pickling, slitting, stretcher leveling, galvanizing, blanking, SCS, edging, temper pass and one pass. Products marketed include hot rolled, HRPO, galvanized, galvannealed, SCS and prepainted steel. Known for decades for its high strength steel expertise, Heidtman also boasts the largest pickling capacity in the US, as well as a fleet in excess of 100 trucks. Heidtman’s present set of production facilities are located in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Michigan.

In an expansion mode, the company plans to open new facilities this year in the Chicago area as well as in Mexico.

Serving hundreds of customers in various industries, Heidtman Steel is proud to acknowledge the automotive market as the company’s dominant market. Heidtman Steel is the largest privately held flat-rolled steel service center network in the entire United States! Underscoring the diversity of the industries served, Heidtman recently announced the rollout of its innovative Quick Ship Program (QSP) for the HVAC industry. Heidtman Steel provides the extensive range of capabilities associated with a large service center network, but still manages to maintain the “can do” attitude that only a privately owned company can provide! From large OEM customers to small job shops, Heidtman Steel ensures exceptional customer service, innovative steel solutions, and products that exceed customer expectations. It’s what we do! Heidtman is proud of its Toledo Heritage! Northwest Ohio is equally proud of Heidtman Steel!

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Sauder Village, Celebrating the Past . . . Inspiring the Future As Ohio’s largest living-history destination, Sauder Village provides guests from around the world with experiences rich in history, hospitality, creativity, and fun. In the Historic Village guests can experience life in Ohio from 1803-1910 while visiting with costumed guides and working craftsmen in more than 40 historic homes and shops. Favorite stops include the District 16 School, General Store, Grime Homestead, Natives & Newcomers and Pioneer Settlement. Guests also marvel at the talented resident artisans and craftsmen blending skill and creativity in glass, metal, fiber, wood and clay. With hands-on activities, intriguing stories, special demonstrations, and nearly 50,000 artifacts – there are many ways for guests to learn something new while having fun in the past.

Throughout the season guests can enjoy a full schedule of special events including a Quilt Show, farming events, concerts, vintage base ball games, craft events and more! Education continues throughout the year at Sauder Village with many craft retreats, classes and off-site programs offered year ‘round. Sauder Village also

includes the 350-seat Barn Restaurant, the Doughbox Bakery and banquet seating for 750 in Founder’s Hall. Guests can extend their visit to the Village by staying overnight at the 98-room Sauder Heritage Inn or the 48-site Campground (open seasonally). There is also unique shopping available year round at the Gift Shop, Quilt Shop, General Store and the Sauder Store & Outlet. Proceeds from the retail and hospitality areas along with admissions, memberships and donations help to support the mission of non-profit Sauder Village.

22611 State Route 2 Archbold OH 43502 www.saudervillage.org 800/5909755

BGSU’s College of Business: At the Heart of Innovation Competitive Edge In Bowling Green State University’s College of Business, we go beyond business as usual. In fact, innovation is at the heart of our programs. You will engage in hands-on learning, including interactive lab courses, to better understand global business operations. We call it applied learning. You can call it your competitive edge.

Beyond Business as Usual means you can explore career interests through internships with companies specifically seeking BGSU students.

Our Business Career Accelerator office is just the place to get started. You can develop your knowledge and skills outside the classroom from real world business projects, from your freshman to senior year. You may also choose to participate in and lead award-winning student organizations, representing every area of study, and meet face to face with regionally and nationally respected business leaders. Or take advantage of study abroad in such places as China, France, and Spain, at English-speaking, AACSB-accredited schools.

Starting on the Right Track You will also find a cutting-edge curriculum in which business education is reinvented. The Applied Business Experience offers a business education like no other in the country. The Gene & Ronnie Poor Innovation Lab is where business students interview actual customers, dissect existing products and services, and explore real organizations that create products and deliver services.

Just as we were one of the first in the nation to offer a Supply Chain Management specialization, the College of Business is going beyond business as usual by offering Business Analytics and Intelligence, as well as Sales and Services Marketing.

Very few institutions offer these dynamic, in-demand areas of study.

increase your knowledge, expand your horizons and prepare you to be market ready. We have exceptional, internationally recognized professors, and a 19:1 student to faculty ratio. Over 70% of business students complete at least one internship, sometimes during their first year. The payoff: the average starting salary of all BGSU business graduates is just under $50,000.

Ohio’s Premier Entrepreneurial Resource The Dallas-Hamilton Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership is northwest Ohio’s premier resource for entrepreneurial education and activities.

Academic Programs: Geared toward innovation and startup businesses, with a curriculum in entrepreneurship (including a minor degree) taught by outstanding faculty with strong expertise Special Opportunities: The Falcon Hatchery Incubator hosts “The Hatch,” a “Shark Tank”type event to help launch student-run businesses.

Successfully launched businesses include: Cribs on Campus, Bueno Taco (taco truck), Cherylanne Communications, and NiceShirt.org

E-Week events celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship. This year’s events are April 7-11.

Kickoff Breakfast, “Lunch and Learns” feature entrepreneurs sharing their insight on how to launch a business.

“The Hatch” (April 9) - Twelve finalists will pitch their business plans to a panel of alumni investors.

Sebo Series in Entrepreneurship (April 11) – presents world-class entrepreneurs who bring their success stories and advice to students, faculty, staff, and the business community. It is the region’s leading entrepreneurial event, annually attracting hundreds of participants.

BGSU Bonus At BGSU, just like in the world of business, value-added is an important concept. You can choose among the many opportunities that will

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Metroparks: A Vital Part Of Community’s Story The scenic Metroparks where we go to play with our children, attend family reunions and walk our dogs are more than just pretty places – they are part of the story of our region.

Residents and frequent visitors are well aware of the benefits. About half of Lucas County residents say they visit a Metropark at least once a month, and almost 70 percent say they visit four to 11 times per year. Nearly 3 million people passed through the gates of the Metroparks in 2013.

The park system also plays a vital role in how the Toledo area presents itself to the world. Our clean, green, safe and scenic parks are part of the region’s identity and quality of life.

Why are Metroparks important?

Experts say parks are good for the health and vitality of a community and the environment; help attract residents and visitors; and play a role in attracting businesses.

More importantly, here’s what Lucas County residents had to say when asked in a 2012 survey: • 94 percent said the Metroparks improve the quality of life in our community • 90 percent said the park system contributes to the overall health of individuals • 87 percent said the parks contribute to water and air quality • 82 percent agreed that they help recruit and retain visitors, businesses and residents and are important to economic development • 82 percent also said that supporting Metroparks is an investment in property values In addition to their value as places to gather, recreate and learn about nature, the Metroparks represent a public investment that pays returns in many other ways. Parks and open

space benefit the community by helping to clean the air and water, retaining storm water, harboring wildlife and enhancing property values. Real estate brokers know that being near a park is often a priority for families looking to relocate.

“Parks make money,” said John Crompton, a Distinguished Professor at Texas A&M University, and an internationally-known expert on the value of parks and open space, who spoke at Wildwood Preserve in October.

Dr. Crompton explained that private golf communities allocate large amounts of land for open space because they can sell the surrounding residential lots at a premium. In the same way, he said, parks add value to the communities around them. Homes near a nature park can enjoy greater property values than the same home located elsewhere, he said.

He added that parks and open space are vital to recruiting and retaining talented workers and small businesses that have the flexibility to locate anywhere.

“CEOs of small businesses want to locate where they want to live,” he said.

His advice to cities: amenities such as parks are as important as other factors, such as business costs, to an economic development plan.

“It is key: make it a nice place to live,” he said.

With the community’s support, making the region a nice place to live has been Metroparks of the Toledo Area’s priority for more than 80 years.

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Moving forward with the Toledo Region Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority — TARTA — has been moving forward with the Toledo region since 1971. With more than 30 interconnected routes carrying 3.4 million passengers per year in and around the Toledo area, TARTA serves the communities of Maumee, Ottawa Hills, Rossford, Sylvania, Sylvania Township, Toledo, and Waterville.

TARTA fare is $1 per person; fifty cents for persons with disabilities and senior citizens age 65 and over.

Children under age six ride free with an adult.

All TARTA buses are equipped with lifts or ramps, making them 100 percent wheelchair-accessible. TARTA also has bike racks mounted on the front of all of its buses, holding two bicycles independently.

TARTA’s curb-to-curb Call-A-Ride service operates in Maumee, Ottawa Hills, Rossford, Sylvania, Sylvania

Township, and Waterville. Passengers may connect to and from TARTA’s regular line service and other nearby Call-A-Rides.

For persons with disabilities preventing them from using regular TARTA buses, there’s TARPS. TARPS operates in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and covers the same service area as TARTA. Registered TARPS users may ride TARTA regular line and Call-A-Ride services free of fare.

TARTA’s Game Shuttle offers Park-NRide service from several area locations for all Mud Hens baseball games at Fifth Third Field and Walleye hockey games at Huntington Center. Fare is $1; no game ticket is required to ride.

Return trips leave twenty minutes following each game’s conclusion.

For more information, visit TARTA.com or call 419-243-7433.

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