FREE
A Toledo tradition since 2005 march
29 2009
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Race for Mayor 2009
Mike Bell rides to the rescue Story by Brandi Barhite, Page A6 Plus: ■ Inspirational words from Carty, Page A4 ■ NW Ohio Make-A-Wish turns 25, Page A14 ■ ProMedica and the stimulus plan, Page A19 ■ Start girls look back on great season, Page A21 ■ Auto Sense: Nick answers your mail, Page A22 ■ Holliday Travels in England, Page A26 ■ Shannon Szyperski on Southwyck, Page A27
Into the fire
A2 â– TOLEDO FREE PRESS
MARCH 29, 2009
OPINION
MARCH 29, 2009
PUBLISHER’S STATEMENT
The walking dead
T
he Cincinnati Post and Kentucky Post newspapers closed in December 2007 after a 126-year run. The Rocky Mountain News closed in February after 150 years in business. Newspapers in Seattle, Tuscon, Ariz., and as close to home as Detroit and Ann Arbor are closing, cutting back production days and reducing services. It is a dire time of transition for the newspaper industry, and there will be many more stories of cutbacks and closings as the months unfold. Daily paid newspapers are for the most part dead men walking, shambling relics of past glories with no sustainable business model. One of the reasons I started Toledo Free Press in 2004 was that I saw the signs of doom for the paid daily newspaper many years ago, and I believe that the community needs a viable long-term alternative, a source for information that drills beyond the fires and car crashes and Thomas F. POUNDS looks at our neighbors. I believed then, and I believe now, that a free, once-or-twice-a-week publication that focuses on strictly local news is the answer. The issues that are killing paid daily newspapers — legacy contract costs, investments in depreciating presses, reliance on content that has been in the marketplace for 24 hours — do not plague most free weekly newspapers. These are tight times, but free weekly newspapers are already on the other side of the collapse, integrating online resources and delivering local content that builds the community, not tears it down. As the paid daily newspaper goes the way of outdoor telephone booths, vinyl records and crop-dusting planes, free weekly publications are standing firm and preparing to be part of the next step in the evolution of the information revolution. Thomas F. Pounds is president and publisher of Toledo Free Press. Contact him at tpounds@toledofreepress.com.
LETTER OF THE WEEK
Weather watchers
N
ow local weather watchers don’t need a “weather radio” to hear National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio broadcasts for Northwest Ohio. Those up-tothe-minute forecasts complement the Toledo Free Press’s weekly weather box provided by FOX Toledo’s Chief Meteorologist Doug Moats. Listen to NOAA weather radio
broadcast reports for the greater Toledo area on a regular AM radio at 1630 kHz (rebroadcast by the Ohio Department of Transportation when it’s not broadcasting traffic information or Amber Alerts). Some very old AM radios may not tune that high, but all recently manufactured table and car radios receive 1630 kHz. THOMAS R. SCHOEN, Toledo
A publication of Toledo Free Press, LLC, Vol. 5, No. 13. Established 2005. EDITORIAL Mary Ann Stearns, Design Editor mastearns@toledofreepress.com Brandi Barhite, Special Sections Editor bbarhite@toledofreepress.com Julie Ryan, News Editor jryan@toledofreepress.com ADMINISTRATION Pam Burson, Business Manager pburson@toledofreepress.com
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■ .A3
LIGHTING THE FUSE
Letters to the Editor ledo Web sites, will determine a top five. From there, the judges will be asked to pick their favorite song, and we’ll reach a consensus. I haven’t been to your MySpace page, but if it gets you more exposure than our contest — City of Toledo/Lucas County Song of the Year designation; studio recording time at Strawberry Fields Dear Mary, Recording Studio; appearance on a FOX Apologize for what, exactly? “Your adoToledo segment; exposure on 106.5 The lescent behavior” covers 40 years of my adZone; a Toledo Free Press profile, a stage slot ventures. If you are referring to the March at the “Smoke on the Water/Ribs for the Red 6 incident at Maumee Valley Country Day Cross” concert; and a stage slot at an MIS School (MVCDS), apologize to whom? concert, opening for a national act — then MVCDS students? I’ve done that. you have one heck of a MySpace page. MVCDS administrators? I’ve done that. Entries are being accepted through My employer? I’ve done that. noon on April 3; details are at our Web Or do you mean apologize to judgmental people like you with no true pic- Michael S. MILLER site, www.toledofreepress.com. MM ture of what happened that morning? Tell you what, Mary; the next time you make a mistake, assuming you walk among us mortals and make TO THE EDITOR, Did you pay the fine on your red-light camera ticket? mistakes, we’ll write a skewed, fact-twisted, fabricatedSTEVE quote version of the incident designed to make you look bad and embarrass your employer, and you can walk around for a week apologizing and trying to set the re- Dear Steve, My intention was to not pay the fine, and to report cord straight. When you call us to protest, we’ll blow you off and let you figure out how to handle it for the public. and write about the process as it proceeded, to see how Then, more than two weeks later, we’ll run a wishy-washy, far the collection efforts would go on what many feel is 2,000-word analysis piece that lacks the spine and heart a legally uncollectible fine. But the week after the Feb. 1 to assign responsibility but further muddies the waters. column about the camera hearing, I received a phone Then, I’ll judge you and write you with a demand for an call from someone who said they overheard a conversation in which “making an example” referred to my public apology and ultimatum on your credibility. Wear those shoes, Mary, before you write to me with declaration of noncompliance. My wife and I decided that playing chicken with the City of Toledo over a $120 any demands for apology. fine was not the most prudent action. So, fine paid. Thank you for the kind words about the column. Henry David Thoreau, I’m not. MM MM TO THE EDITOR, My submission [for the “Song of Toledo” contest] is TO THE EDITOR, As I began reading the March 15 guest column by attached. Word on the street and with my sources is that you’ve already picked your winner prior to the contest Dean Sparks, “Fathers, step up,” I thought I might be able commencement. I hope you take the time to listen to my to pick up some tips for my husband, Roger. Reading song and all the others out of respect for our craft. We can through each of the suggestions, I thought to myself, “Wow, he already does that.” do better on our MySpace pages. More exposure. My son Jackson, who is now 2, is indeed a lucky little NAME WITHHELD BY EDITOR boy to have the wonderful daddy whom he does, and I Dear -----, know there are others. He is always up for an outdoor Wow. I’ve heard of sour grapes after a contest, but be- adventure of stalking a neighborhood cat or changing the fore it even starts? For what it’s worth, your “sources” are nastiest of diapers. Let’s hear it for the good guys and the fools, liars or a dangerous combination of the two. great dads! It’s about time they got some good press. With eight judges — including two elected officials LISA LAWSON-LaPOINTE, Bowling Green — three media partners and several high-profile sponsors, such as Michigan International Speedway (MIS) and Dear Lisa, Columbia Gas involved, there is no way a rigged or fixed Amen. contest would be tolerated. Once all the submissions are MM in, CDs will be sent to the judges, who will independently listen to the songs and then rank them. All that feedback, Michael S. Miller is editor in chief of Toledo Free Press. plus a public vote from the Toledo Free Press and FOX To- Contact him at mmiller@toledofreepress.com. TO THE EDITOR, Your column is enjoyable to me each week, but if you do not apologize for your adolescent behavior, you have lost your credibility with me. MARY
Thomas F. Pounds, President/Publisher tpounds@toledofreepress.com
Michael S. Miller, Editor in Chief mmiller@toledofreepress.com
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OPINION
A4 ■ TOLEDO FREE PRESS
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ow many people do you able. Employment and tax revenue know who have been in Toledo are tumbling. Toledo City raped? Or beaten and Councilman D. Michael Collins, a former president of the TPPA, robbed? How about murdered? Odds are you don’t know publicly urged his former union to anyone who’s been victimized in consider concessions or face layoffs: “I’ve been in your any of those ways. shoes and I’ve sat in Terry Wertz does. your chairs, and these His neighbor two numbers are real.” doors down was held The correlation at gunpoint, while between more cops the man’s roommate and less crime is was raped during a a little muddled. I home invasion last called the U.S. Deyear. Another friend partment of Justice’s was beaten and Bureau of Statistics, robbed by a gang and even it couldn’t of punks a couple Jim HARPEN tell me what, if any, blocks over. And his own brother was shot and killed in connection was documented. But the mid-1980s. All in the Old South common sense tells me that too End neighborhood he’s lived in for few cops equals too much crime. I most of his 48 years. The prospect remember the field day criminals of Toledo laying off 75 police offi- had when Toledo police went on strike in 1979, and the city had to cers doesn’t sit well with Wertz. “Cutting back on officers is be patrolled by the scant crews of going to make it more conve- the Lucas County Sheriff ’s office. nient for people to commit crimes Arsonists set fires in broad daylight that burned down entire blocks without being caught,” he said. The fewer police on the streets, of houses (the firefighters were the more the bad guys get away with on strike, too). And after Sept. 11, their bad acts, free to commit more 2001, the federal government crebad acts another day. The beat cops ated departments and added tens know who the ill-intentioned char- of thousands of sworn officers. We acters are, and they lay in wait for haven’t suffered a terrorist attack on them to do the wrong thing at the U.S. soil since, and it’s not like the wrong time. The crooks might not terrorists have lost interest in us. The TPPA’s Wagner has his own get busted for the worst caper they’ve committed or plan to commit, but terrorist analogy: “I equate him they’ll get arrested for something. [Mayor Finkbeiner] to a terrorist These are people in our neighbor- because it’s like he’s holding the pohoods who are pulling off some sort lice officers hostage and pitting us of misdeed on a weekly or even daily against the residents.” basis — assault, theft, drug dealing. The negative effects of cutting But these are times like most police officers is usually measured in of us haven’t seen before. The City “response time” — the time it takes of Toledo is looking down the from the 911 call to the first squad barrel of a growing gap in the 2009 car screeching up on the scene. budget. Nearly $28 million by the But the block watchers and other latest ballooning estimate. Mayor neighborhood activists say it’s reCarty Finkbeiner has his ideas on ally about the police just being seen. balancing the budget (laying off It works like the plastic owls Point police officers and firefighters) and Place residents put on their docks the Toledo Police Patrolman’s Asso- to scare the seagulls away. “The ofciation has its own. ficers are doing a darned good job “Every union leader has stepped for what they have now” said Old up to assist in balancing the budget” South Ender Terry Wertz. “[the laysaid TPPA President Dan Wagner. offs are] only going to make their “... but Carty won’t even entertain job tougher, and they might not be the ideas we’ve put forward.” able to maintain the visual deterrent Finkbeiner not welcoming sug- that’s been helping our area.” gestions from other people? That’s Helping an area that’s still seeing an entirely different discussion. rapes, beatings, robberies and the The patrolman’s association and occasional murder. Even before anthe city are negotiating possible other cop is walking the beat on the concessions aimed at reducing, and unemployment line. perhaps eliminating the need to lay off police officers. E-mail columnist Jim Harpen at The dollar figures are inescap- letters@toledofreepress.com.
MARCH 29, 2009
This week’s columns by Maggie Thurber, Tim Higgins
GUEST COLUMN
A losers’ locker room
M
any years ago I was a encing and using this recession as football coach. My head an excuse to throw rocks or verbal accusations, often with coach and few facts behind them. mentor was Frank More than occasionLauterbur, the head ally there are outright football coach at the mistruths spoken as University of Topart of the backbiting. ledo. Among the key Winners don’t do things coach Lautanything in tough erbur had to change times but work harder at UT was the player’s and smarter and try belief or confidence to help those who are in themselves. He, Jack Murphy and Carty FINKBEINER going through excepothers did a great job — eventually tionally tough times. And, losers, they point fingers at all bringing UT three consecutive unothers, whine and wimp around, gendefeated seasons. Today, in our community, among erally contributing nothing but negathe media, the citizens and some tivism to the already tough times. Toledoans, this is a time and politicians, there is a “losers’ locker room mentality.” That is a locker moment to define not only your room where players all point the character — but your community’s finger at other players and say, ‘It’s character as well. Stay strong. Stay your fault.” When a team is losing, it positive. Help your neighbor. Help is easy to point the finger at all the the community by being a positiveother players and blame them. That’s spirited person. Toledo can and will the attitude that has to be eliminated survive the tough times. Will you if you wish to be on a winning team help us — or hurt us? — or live in a winning community. Toledo has too many in the Carleton S. Finkbeiner is mayor of media, too many citizens and too the City of Toledo. He may be conmany politicians who are taking the tacted at (419) 245-1001 or mayor. economic hard times we’re experi- toledo@toledo.oh.gov.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
City of Toledo: Rossford’s logic all wet TO THE EDITOR, While Rossford’s Mayor William Verbosky Jr. may be accurate with his math on the recent increase in the Rossford water rate (“Rossford mayor addresses water rates,” March 22), he certainly is off base on the City of Toledo’s intention on the revenue sharing agreement and is conducting a misleading PR campaign. I believe it is time to set the record straight: 1. During contract negotiations, Rossford was told by the City of Toledo that all new Joint Economic Development Zone (JEDZ) agreements are being negotiated on an equal revenue sharing basis. 2. The City of Toledo has offered to keep the Rossford JEDZ rates the same for existing businesses. 3. The Rossford JEDZ increase would be on new business only to the area. 4. Without Toledo water, Rossford would not have been able to annex the area from Perrysburg Township. 5. Perrysburg Township. sustained huge losses on the failed Rossford Arena/Amphitheater project and chose to work directly with Toledo on a JEDZ for the Fed Ex project, in essence landlocking Rossford. It appears that what is good for the goose is not good for the gander. It is acceptable for Toledo to be landlocked by its neighboring communities leveraging Toledo water, but when Toledo wants its fair share of development, that could only happen with Toledo’s water; Toledo is punitive. This is far from the fact. Unfortunately, it appears that citizens of Rossford will pay the higher water rates, spend additional money on infrastructure and be restricted from growth until Rossford is willing to negotiate fairly in the interest of regional cooperation. ROBERT R. REINBOLT, Chief of Staff , City of Toledo
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RACE FOR MAYOR 2009
TOLEDO FREE PRESS PHOTO BY LAD STRAYER
A6.
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MIKE BELL ONCE SET OFF ON HIS HARLEY FOR A BIKER RALLY IN STURGIS, S. D., AND ENDED UP IN CALIFORNIA. BELL HAS SERVED AS TOLEDO’S FIRE CHIEF AND THE STATE OF OHIO’S FIRE MARSHAL.
‘Free spirit’ Bell seeks to ride to Toledo’s rescue By Brandi Barhite TOLEDO FREE PRESS SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR bbarhite@toledofreepress.com
To his parents, it’s just Mike — Michael when he’s in trouble. But they also think “Mayor Mike Bell” has a nice ring to it. It
sounds even better than fire chief or state fire marshal. Norman and Ora Bell talk about their 54-year-old son like he’s still a boy growing up on Stickney Avenue. The Bells are inside his home on Hopewell Place. Their son — the mayoral candidate — is away. Days earlier, Bell shared his reason for running for mayor,
and it has a familial ring to it. “The reason I want to come back isn’t about me. It is about the city. It is about turning it around. It is about my family, my parents who live in the North End,” he said. “Everything I have learned, I have learned from the City of Toledo, so I think I have ■ BELL CONTINUES ON A7
Celebrating Volunteers Thank you for touching lives and making a difference every day. Learn more at redcrosstoledo.org.
■ BELL CONTINUED FROM A6 some valuable skills that I can give back that will help change the look of the city and to get people to work together toward a common cause.” But on this particular day Bell is gone, and stories about his days working at a bakery and disliking it, spill out. As does the time they didn’t want him to ride his Harley to a biker rally in Sturgis, S.D. and their “free spirit” ended up in California. Not to mention Bell didn’t even want to become a firefighter. “I thought there would be a future with the City of Toledo as opposed to the job he had with the railroad,” his father said. “He was complaining about the railroad, so I said, ‘Give it some consideration,’ and he was rebellious for a while.” In 1990, when Bell became the youngest fire chief in Toledo, as well as the first black chief, Dad couldn’t have been prouder. Now that his son is running for mayor, the 76-year-old is his campaign treasurer. “He has all the skills that are needed and will be able to direct the city in a very positive manner,” Norman said. “He just didn’t walk off the street to apply for the mayor’s position,” Ora said. “He has been groomed through his previous employment and he definitely brings with him a commitment, the skills, and I also think that he will add pizzazz.” The pizzazz she talks about isn’t something Bell will shed during the campaign, he said. “I enjoy life. You might see me someplace listening to blues, rock, Motown or you might see me with a cowboy hat, listening to country western,” he said. “I appreciate life and I think it is from being a firefighter. It is from being a paramedic. It is from having the people you are working on looking you in the eye and by the time you leave the scene, they are dead. You realize how fragile life is.” Bell has never been married and has no children. Some people think a married mayor with children signals stability, he said. Bell is asking voters to consider this: “I have been trusted with people’s lives for the past 30 years.”
It’s official Speculation over whether Bell would run for mayor has circulated for months. For Bell, it wasn’t something he immediately considered after retiring as fire chief and being appointed state marshal in 2007. “Was it always the plan? No. But from a standpoint of a person who has always been involved with civic duty, this is probably the next plateau in being able to help a large portion of people,” he said. Bell officially announced his intention to
seek the mayoral job March 25. He is running as an independent, despite his roots as a Democrat. Democrat Keith Wilkowski and Republican Jim Moody are also running. “I believe the people in this community don’t really care what you are as long as you are prepared to work for them,” Bell said. He is giving up his state marshal position to return to the city and campaign full time. His resignation is effective April 10, although as marshal he returned to Toledo almost every weekend, he said. “My commitment is very much similar to the pig for the farmer’s breakfast,” Bell said. “When the chicken commits its egg to the farmer’s breakfast, it is a partial commitment. When the hog commits to the farmer’s breakfast, it is a total commitment. The hog has to give its life. I am totally committed.” Kimberly Zurz, director of the Ohio Department of Commerce, thanked Bell for his work. “The Division of State Fire Marshal has benefited greatly from his dedication and leadership,” she said in a statement. “We appreciate the work Marshal Bell has done to improve relationships with the fire service throughout the state and wish him well on his future endeavors.” Bell acknowledged if he loses his bid for mayor, he’s out a job. He’ll take the risk for Toledo. “We are at a crossroads,” he said. “We have the ability right at this time to decide which way we are going to go. When people ask me why I would want to be mayor, I say, ‘What better time to want to be mayor when things seem their darkest?’ ”
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■ A7
TOLEDO FREE PRESS PHOTO BY LAD STRAYER
RACE FOR MAYOR 2009
MARCH 29, 2009
Tell Bell Bell is focusing on issues he believes are crucial to the future of Toledo. Balancing the city budget; saving and creating jobs; preserving home values and stabilizing neighborhoods; and protecting people’s safety. “I have an idea, a concept, but I am one citizen in this city out of over 300,000,” Bell said. “And there are people who have lived in this city longer who have various expertise that I believe will be extremely helpful toward formulating that direction.” Bell said he would like Toledo to be similar to Indianapolis. Twenty years ago, the Indiana capital was not a point of destination, but at some point, that city, county and region decided to change how it did business. Toledo needs to do the same, he said. Determining what the city wants starts with sitting down with a group of people who care about the destiny of the city, county and region and coming up with a strategic plan that will work — not a bunch of words — but something that can actually be achieved and
■
MIKE BELL SAID HE WOULD LIKE TO CHANGE THE WAY TOLEDO DOES BUSINESS, LIKE INDIANAPOLIS DID.
benchmarking those goals. “I am able to make people feel very comfortable to be around me,” Bell said. “I take my ego out of everything that I do, so if we decide to work together, it is about the issues, it is not about the person sitting in the mayor’s seat.” Brian Epstein, former chairman of EPIC, Engaging People Inspiring Change, said Toledo needs someone like Bell. “Mike is finally that leadership,” Epstein said. “It is not about him; it is about the region and pulling the right people together to accomplish the goals.”
Cajun roots Bell was born in Alexandria, La., and lived with his dad’s mom for the first five years of his life, while the rest of his family settled in Toledo. It was a time when blacks had better job
opportunities in the North, which his parents were seeking, he said. “Coming up here was a bit of a switch. I can remember back to when I was 3 and 4 years old and living with my grandma in Baton Rouge, back in the time when you couldn’t ride in the front of the bus.” Bell also remembers his grandma’s Cajun cooking. Meals that cost $20 to $30 in a restaurant, he was eating every night at his grandma’s house. She would take a pail and select fresh — and sometimes live — seafood from the vendors on the street. It wasn’t unusual for Bell to see Grandma tackling a lobster in the kitchen. Bell said his grandma ran a nursery, which helped him develop socially. He liked having all the toys to himself when the children left for the day, he recalled, laughing. ■ BELL CONTINUES ON A8
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RACE FOR MAYOR 2009
■ BELL CONTINUED FROM A7 “You had to be behaved and treat kids well. Those things stick with you all of your life.” More life lessons would follow. Bell grew up on Stickney Avenue, where his parents still live today. Both of his parents are college educated, which they encouraged with all four of their boys. Bell, the eldest, attended Woodward High School, graduating with fellow mayoral opponent Wilkowski in 1973. During Government Day, Bell said he was mayor. “My dad and mom have never doubted our capacity to reach for the stars and be anyone we wanted to be,” Bell said. “If we were going to work at McDonald’s — and I did work at McDonald’s — figure out how to run the place; if you are going to be a truck driver, figure out how to run the company someday; if you are going to be a firefighter, figure out how to be a fire chief someday.”
Father knows best The college football team captain, and one of the first male cheerleaders for UT, graduated in 1978 with a degree in education. His focus was on park administration and natural resources. “I am thinking I am getting out of here, heading to California, Nevada — somewhere on that side,” Bell
said. “Not because it was factually better, but of how it was marketed — part of the problem for Toledo.” But before he could move, his dad encouraged firefighting. “He knew I liked action, that I wouldn’t be totally comfortable sitting a desk.” Bell quickly realized firefighting was for him. Dad was right. “I didn’t think I would be out there putting a tube down someone’s throat, or going and diving in water for bodies.” His 16 years in the fire chief position weren’t without controversy, including a gender-bias suit that will likely go to trial during the mayoral campaign. Three women allege that officials did nothing when co-workers used sexually demeaning language and committed verbal abuse. “I believe I treated all employees as fairly as possible as an administrator,” Bell said. “But all city employees are entitled to due process, and I certainly support their right to move forward on that basis.” Fire Capt. Jim Martin, Local 92 president, said as director of one of the largest city departments for 16 years, Bell is certainly qualified to be mayor. “I don’t see any reason not to endorse him,” Martin said. “I think he would be a great ambassador for the City of Toledo.” Bell said his experience with the
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fire department will play into being mayor, in particular his delegation skills and ability to create a team to address issues facing this community. “The thing that makes this job a little bit easier is that when you are making a decision at that particular second, no one’s life is on the line,” he said. The hardest times are when young children die, a subject Bell addresses carefully because of surviving family members. “The grief at the scene … the grieving that the firefighters are doing for the family. It does stick with you for the rest of your life.” These experiences will help Bell keep the daily challenges of the mayor in perspective, he said.
No regrets “King Kong.” Those two words follow Bell to this day. In May 2006, Mayor Carty Finkbeiner referred to Bell as King Kong during a staff meeting. Finkbeiner clarified he was referring to Bell’s strength and it was not meant as a racial slur. Bell said little about the incidence at the time and expressed no outrage, which angered some in the black community. If he could do it over again, he wouldn’t. “When you are in situations like that, once they become media issues, they are blown out of proportion, and
MARCH 29, 2009
people can look at it in a million different ways,” he said. “But deep down you know who you are and what you are doing is a lot bigger at times than your own individual self. “Reliving that particular experience, to do something that would have played the race card, I think would have been totally inappropriate. Not only for myself, but for this community. Only Carty knows what he meant by it, and we will just have to leave it at that.”
Independent streak Deciding to run as an independent meant leaving behind his strong allegiance to the Democrat Party. Bell said political parties play a part of history, but people are the ones who get things done. “I have voted on the person, based on what I thought they could do. You got to trust that when you give your vote that the person is going to come through for you,” he said. Toledo City Councilman D. Michael Collins is the only independent on council. “I guess my feeling is that it is probably a strategy that Mr. Bell is using and only he and his internal campaign people can probably address the rationale behind it.” For Collins, being an independent has been a lifelong commitment, although he doesn’t find council particularly partisan.
“I have an open dialogue, and we do not discuss political persuasions,” Collins said. Bell said as mayor he would treat council members like a board. “Why wouldn’t you have the other 12 people who are elected helping you with decisions? It is going to impact them as politically as the mayor.” Bell said all city leaders brings their own personality to the table. But if they don’t have the ability to reach out to people when they become mayor, it doesn’t become any easier. Bell has worked under three mayors, Finkbeiner twice, and he has learned from each of them. He described John McHugh as politically astute; Finkbeiner as very passionate; and Jack Ford as a person who is truly caring. “I have known no other service for last 30-plus years than public service, so to be at the end of the tunnel where you can actually make final decisions on issues that may last a lifetime, I think it would be, one, a great honor and two, it carries a great amount of responsibility,” Bell said. “I would love to be mayor. I think I would do an excellent job. But my success isn’t tied to becoming mayor. I just want to see our city succeed, and if I am unsuccessful and I challenge enough people to get in the race where this city wins, I will still feel good.”
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■ A9
PHILANTHROPY
By Julie Ryan TOLEDO FREE PRESS NEWS EDITOR jryan@toledofreepress.com
Five years after their merger, YMCA & Jewish Community Center (JCC) of Greater Toledo received The Collaboration Prize, an award created by the Lodestar Foundation to inspire nonprofit organizations to work together. The YMCA & JCC competed against 643 nonprofit collaborations nationwide and tied for first with the Dallas Museum of Nature and Science. After splitting the reward, it received $125,000. “The degree of integration that the two organizations were able to achieve, and the cost savings, and all the benefits of living together, and what they’re doing, is a wonderful model of the sector,” said Lois Savage, president of
the Lodestar Foundation. Savage said the merger remained flexible and accomplished a lot through joint programs and administrative consolidations. “The other really huge thing about this as a model is that they were each dealing with an affiliate,” Savage said. “They were able to get this accomplished even with some objections from their affiliates.” YMCA & JCC President Robert Alexander said he was surprised to win The Collaboration Prize and hopes it will bring joy to the community. “It adds more mortar for the foundation of what we have built in Toledo,” said Paul Schlatter, YMCA & JCC chairman. Savage said the prize was created as a way to research nonprofit collaborations — an area she said has been researched little.
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“We thought if we offered a substantial prize that we would hear from people so we designed a nomination form so people would tell us about their collaborations,” Savage said. “The prize was really a means to an end.” The collaboration between the YMCA and JCC in Toledo began in 1999 when they signed an affiliation agreement, allowing their members to use both facilities and programs, said Joel Beren, past president of United Jewish Council, the parent organization of JCC. In 2003, Beren said, the YMCA began looking for a physical presence in Sylvania, where the JCC had a 44-acre campus. The project for a new YMCA building in Northwest Toledo would have required an estimated $5 million to $8 million capital campaign. Beren said he and Schlatter began discussing options. “We asked, ‘Is there anyway to put the Y and the J together and discourage the use of public funds to build another center?’ ” Beren said he and past YMCA president Larry Lev worked together and on Feb. 1, 2004, signed a merger between JCC and YMCA — the first merger of the two nonprofits. Alexander said everything was combined: staff, marketing
PHOTO BY ROB THOMAS/YMCA&JCC
YMCA-JCC merger receives national recognition
CLOCKWISE FROM UPPER LEFT: ROBERT ALEXANDER, JOEL BEREN, ABBY SUCKOW AND PAUL SCHLATTER OF THE YMCA & JCC.
■
and buildings. “One of the first steps was to allow our members reciprocity so they could use each others branches,” Alexander said. “One of the second things we did was put up a couple hundred thousand dollars to improve facilities and show the benefits of the merge.” Alexander said they faced the challenge of winning over donors,
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faith leaders, insurance companies, head organizations, trustees and professional staff. “A merger is not unique,” Alexander said. “But merging two faithbased nonprofits with different religious backgrounds is unique.” In the end, Alexander said, the merger proved a success. “We were very fortunate that we had faith leaders on both sides that trust each other,” said Abby Suckow, United Jewish Council of Greater Toledo chief executive officer. Schlatter said the JCC and YMCA are nonprofit “silos” — large and national. “This is nothing but the tip of the iceberg for our organizations nationally,” Schlatter said. “These silos need to be brought down, especially in this economy.” Alexander said nonprofits need to learn to work together. Instead of having double the staff and facilities, it is better to merge and work together while serving the community. The JCC moved to the Sylvania campus in 1970 with the vision that all Jewish congregations would be represented there, Beren said. Two years ago, a second congregation moved to the campus, which now represents two of three Toledo-area congregations. Alexander said while merging, the YMCA and JCC worked to preserve sacred Jewish symbols, create a kosher campus and celebrate major Jewish holidays. “It’s the diversity of it that is so special,” Alexander said. Schlatter said Christian employees are learning about Jewish holidays and understanding more of their historical background in light of Judaism. Visit www.ymcatoledo.org for more information.
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A10 ■ TOLEDO FREE PRESS
MARCH 29, 2009
RETAIL
Area gun, ammunition sales rise amid political fears By Julie Ryan TOLEDO FREE PRESS NEWS EDITOR jryan@toledofreepress.com
Toledo-area gun and ammunition sales are on the rise, and shop owners are scrambling to find distributors, as a possible change in the nation’s gun laws sparks a buying frenzy. Theresa Cleland, an owner of Cleland’s Outdoor World, said she is having difficulty receiving supplies as distributors are running out. The demand for guns and ammunition has been so high that she is forced to scavenge the nation for items, she said. “We’ve been busy enough that I’m busy hunting for merchandise and haven’t had time to reflect on numbers and how it has changed,” Cleland said. Rob Buchanan, general manager of Bass Pro Shop in Rossford, said sales in gun and ammunition picked up in recent months, and there is an “increase in footsteps in the hunting department.” “I think just people would like to get their guns and ammunition as
soon as possible,” Buchanan said. Buchanan said pistols are selling rapidly, and some guns are selling as soon as they hit the shelves. Ammunition is selling just as well. “The whole industry is pretty tight right now. Ammunition has been pretty hard to come by,” he said. “Once we get it in, we put it on the shelves and get it out there.” He said he attributes the increase to President Barack Obama’s campaign and possible changes in gun laws. Cleland agreed. “Back when President Clinton was in, he had more gun-control laws that left when the Republicans came in and customers believe they may come back,” Cleland said. A 1994 Clinton administration ban on semiautomatic assault weapons and high-capacity ammunition clips affected some congressional political campaigns. President George W. Bush’s administration allowed the bill to lapse in 2004. While Obama has emphasized his respect for the rights of individuals to bear arms, he has discussed re-enacting the ban. His campaign Web
site states that he would like to make the assault-weapons ban permanent, “as such weapons belong on foreign battlefields and not on the street.” He said he wants to repeal the Tiahrt Amendment, which limits the ability of law enforcement to trace gun information, and enact other “common-sense” measures such as requiring background checks for sales between individuals at gun shows. Vice President Joe Biden also has a reputation as an assaultweapons foe. After opposition from the National Rifle Association, 22 Democrats joined Republicans in a Senate vote in March to negate the District of Columbia’s tough gun registration requirements and overturn its ban on rapid-fire semiautomatic
“
I don’t believe guns are right for everyone, but people need to know how to protect themselves.” — Theresa Cleland
weapons. More than 80 House Democrats backed a similar measure last year. The gun lobby has raised more than $20 million for political candidates since the 1990 election cycle, with about 85 percent going to Republicans. That ranks 68th among about 80 industry groups tracked
by the OpenSecrets.org campaign finance watchdog. Cleland said people are uncomfortable with the stock market and employment rate. “There are more people out of jobs and customers feel that the crime rate is going to rise and they need to protect themselves,” she said. “Plus, the fact that the police departments are getting cut.” If the gun control laws return under Obama, Cleland said, people will be upset, as guns are a Second Amendment right. “I don’t believe guns are right for everyone, but people need to know how to protect themselves,” she said. The Associated Press/Dallas Morning News contributed to this report.
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Sylvania seeks input on school options By Shelby Schroeder TOLEDO FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER news@toledofreepress.com
Neighbors in Sylvania are being asked for their opinion on three new school buildings, which boast a price tag of more than $39 million. District officials said the new elementary buildings — set to replace the 1920s and 30s-built Hill View, Maplewood and Central — will meet new educational guidelines, while public input will shape their designs. “The focus [of these projects] is designing three new buildings by involving internal people: teachers and architects and parents on design teams,” said Bradley Rieger, Sylvania Schools superintendent. “We want to get the people in those schools, and who live here, to decide the curb appeal.” But the community meetings that took place March 18 and 19, as well as others anticipated in the coming months, give residents a voice on more than brick color. The number of floors, the building’s placement on the land, as well as the overall architectural theme of the building — be it classic or contemporary — are mostly their choices. At the forums, the planning teams will offer a look at illustrations of possible designs. On those printed proposals, guests may ask questions, show support or make suggestions on how the plans could be improved. Discussion facilitator Joseph Kunkle, the SSOE planner and architect of the new schools, said the primary concern of neighbors is that the reconstructed schools resemble their surrounding infrastructure. “For example, Maplewood has a municipal corridor architectural design,” he said. “All of the buildings along that corridor have that look of red colonial with white trim,” he said, “Whereas Hill View is more of a residential setting. “We want to confirm our approach in the design with the people.”
EDUCATION
Artist speaks out on BGSU debate By Chris Myers SPECIAL TO TOLEDO FREE PRESS
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SSOE is the architectural firm responsible for several new Toledo Public School buildings; the John F. Savage Arena and Charles A. Sullivan Athletic Complex, formerly the University of Toledo’s Savage Hall; and the new United Way facilities Downtown. Kunkle’s work almost exclusively centers on building projects for elementary schools to universities. He said the new Sylvania schools will be ADA compliant, feature updated heating and plumbing and double the classroom sizes, therefore eliminating the need for the four portable classrooms and two-room annex currently in use outside the old buildings. The cost of the new construction, as well as renovations in the district’s nine other schools, will be covered through the 2.89-mill, 28-year bond levy passed in November. In totall, the school system is planning about $79 million in districtwide renewal projects. Hill View Principal Adam Fineske, like other school administration and staff, said he is eagerly awaiting a reprieve from overcrowding and urgent repairs. Recently, Fineske and his staff were forced to fill buckets of water to flush toilets on the second and third floors of their building. For many, the image doesn’t sync well with that of a school district rated “Excellent with Distinction” by the Ohio Department of Education. The new buildings, Fineske said, will benefit everyone. Officials said construction on Hill View and Maplewood schools could begin as early as this summer. Meanwhile, planners are still seeking new space for Central Elementary’s replacement, as the high-traffic intersection of West Central Avenue and North King Road has been deemed too hazardous to rebuild there. Rieger said the schools will open their doors by late 2011 and early 2012. To view the district’s 2008 master plan, find forum dates or to get involved in the planning, visit the Web site www.sylvaniaschools.org.
When artist James Parlin delivered and helped set up his sculpture exhibit at the Little Gallery at BGSU Firelands College in Huron, he never thought it would become “the most talked about show that no one saw.” One of his pieces, depicting a middle school student and teacher engaged in oral sex, was removed by interim Dean James Smith. The university wrote that, although it supports the right of free speech and artistic expression, it has a responsibility “to not expose the children and families we invite to our campus to inappropriate material.” Parlin, of Edinboro, Pa., said he submitted photographs of his work to Firelands when he applied to exhibit. He said the school has a right to not exhibit the pieces; however, he felt Firelands did not initiate pro-
“
It is a moralistic piece about the freedom of will, compulsion and decision making.” — James Parlin cedures other galleries follow when pieces have mature content. “Some adults should be warned and not blindsided,” Parlin said. “If there was a warning posted, then one has a choice. My decision to make or try to exhibit a piece did not cause controversy in my mind. Not taking adequate safeguards created the controversy.” Parlin said he has exhibited art for 20 years and none of his work has been
removed. The piece that was pulled from the Little Gallery is titled, “The Middle School Science Teacher Makes a Decision He’ll Live to Regret.” “It is a moralistic piece about the freedom of will, compulsion and decision making,” Parlin said. Parlin said the piece explores the idea that everyone does wrong things. “People usually do little things wrong, with small consequences … Sometimes people do big things wrong, with big consequences. Sexual assault is one,” he said. “This piece is based on someone who lost a job, family and freedom. He made a decision that lead to disaster.” Parlin said he works hard on his art pieces and feels bad that the controversy began. “This was a preventable, overblown controversy and is not how I would choose to get attention,” he said. The art exhibit opened March 2 and was scheduled to run through April 7 but has been closed.
COMMUNITY
A12 ■ TOLEDO FREE PRESS
MARCH 29, 2009
DEVELOPMENT
United Way construction rolls without hoopla By Shelby Schroeder TOLEDO FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER news@toledofreepress.com
The beginnings of the $4.9 million United Way facility in Downtown Toledo is exciting organization officials. But United Way President and CEO Bill Kitson would be happier if others were on board. “It’s been a little disappointing that an organization that’s making this type of development in Toledo isn’t being embraced as one supporting Toledo,” Kitson said following a March 24 tour of the construction outside his first floor office. Past the KITSON tinted windows of the current United Way building at 100 N. Huron St., in Downtown, the sandy construction lot is already outlined with the concrete foundation of the new facility. In its center, rising two stories high, are cinder block stairwells — the first visible signs of construction from the street. Once completed, the new building is expected to slash a $250,000 annual loss in operating costs that even $10 million in renovations could not remedy, Kitson said. Construction of a new office was the only viable solution, he said, because United Way couldn’t find a home elsewhere Downtown. With the building taking shape, viewing the progress since its Jan. 5 start date has been a joy for his staff, Kitson said. “We’ve been looking at the draw-
do’s Tole wn O
ings for months, so it’s amazing to see it materialize,” he said. But Kitson said it’s the lack of community support and government nods that have tainted enthusiasm for the new building. The structure, he said, will ultimately help the city by creating construction jobs and increasing the organization’s efficiency. “Every time public officials are talking about what’s happening in the city, I never hear one of them talk about how exciting it is to have Downtown construction,” he said. “I think that if there were anyone else building, people would be more excited.” Kathy Doty, chief operating officer for United Way, said the number of workers employed in the construction is just the beginning of local contributions the new building has brought to the area. “A couple hundred people are involved in making this happen, which, in this economy is a good thing,” Doty said. “We’re pleased we’re able to help in that way.” United Way is self-funding the new building, which accounts for about 75 percent of a projected $6.5 million building budget that includes the demolition of the old structure and conversion of the surrounding property to a park setting. Toledo-based architecture firm SSOE designed the new “green” headquarters, and construction has been awarded to Rudolph|Libbe and 25 other local subcontractors. Currently, a little more than a dozen workers are busy capping the Americans with Disabilities Actcompliant elevator shaft and preparing for the shipment of structural steel. But by the time the building is
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A couple hundred people are making this happen, which, in this economy, is a good thing. We’re pleased to be able to help.” — Kathy Doty, United Way COO completed in late August, site superintendent Mark Mears said more than 200 specialists — working to construct walls, run electrical wire and install heating and cooling systems — will have contributed to the project.
Once the building is up and running, Doty said office operations will be streamlined. The more than 70 employees and volunteers will have tools at their immediate fingertips, and departments will be able to interact more efficiently, she said. Maintenance and operation expenses will also be cut because United Way will be moving to a building one-quarter its current size, in the process shedding its eight remaining nonprofit tenants. Kitson said the organization will then be able to refocus on its own work, only with less cost. “The reality is [that] a lot of people are working now. This is an organization that could have just as easily taken the opportunity that was given to them to move out of Downtown,” Kitson said. “But instead we chose to stay.”
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3. Point foot up and down thirty times prior to standing 4. Regularly stretch calf and foot muscles 5. Roll the arch of your foot on a frozen water bottle 6. Use supportive arch inserts in your shoes If pain persists, a physician can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your feet. This will help rule out other causes of heel pain, which may include heel spurs or stress fractures. A physician may recommend physical therapy, night splints, orthotics or medication to treat your pain.
Brendan Smith, PT, ATC Sports Care at Wildwood Medical Center
Contact Sports Care® today. Call 1-800-654-6764 www.promedica.org © 2009 ProMedica Health System
COMMUNITY
MARCH 29, 2009
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â– A13
HEALTH AND FITNESS
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Get Fit Toledo gets active
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et Fit Toledo (GFT) has been that offer healthy menu options. on the down low the past More than 26 restaurants in Toledo, few months, leaving many such as Sori Sushi, Tiger Bakery and Cousinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Navy Bistro, to wonder if the proto name a few, have gram is fizzling out. Acearned GOLD plate cording to new director status. Whether citiDave Carleski, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s zens have taken advanhardly the case. tage of this initiative is â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been unknown. meeting regularly to In the December decide what the next issue of Self magazine, step is for the proa survey of the 100 gram,â&#x20AC;? he said. largest U.S. metro cities Toledo Mayor Carty Lauren AMSTUTZ found Toledo as the Finkbeiner started GFT with the goal of providing fourth unhealthiest city for women Lucas County residents with access in the country. Rankings were based to health information, programs on more than 50 categories, inand resources they need to lead a cluding death and disease rates, enhealthy lifestyle. To supplement vironmental indicators, community the program, the mayor created the resources and lifestyle habit. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Those statistics are extremely GOLD plate award for restaurants disturbing,â&#x20AC;? said Ashley Williams, a University of Toledo graduate with a masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in public health. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Businesses and the city pay more money to health insurance companies when employees are unhealthy.â&#x20AC;? The mayor blames history. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Toledo has been unhealthy for both men and women because of our industrial past,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is changing. It is urgent that Toledo stresses healthy living choices.â&#x20AC;? Under New â&#x20AC;&#x153;We understand that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s difficult Ownership to change your lifestyle. We want this program to meet people where they are.â&#x20AC;? Carleski said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People should not feel bad about being overweight. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never too late to start working out and changing your eating patterns.â&#x20AC;? Starting in April, Get Fit Toledo Every Day is offering a calendar of free events. $1 Draft Specials Local gyms, doctors and nutrition experts have teamed up to provide opportunities for everyone. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important for everyone to maintain a healthy lifestyle,â&#x20AC;? Carleski said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To do that you need to understand why youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re unhealthy in the first place. This program gives you the opportunity to try new techLocated in the niques and meet people who have the same goals.â&#x20AC;? Warehouse District
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Upcoming events: â&#x2013; April is Get Fit Toledo Month: Get ready for a month full of free events, seminars and fun. â&#x2013; May 20 is Bike to Work Day. Lauren Amstutz is media relations director of Get Fit Toledo.
MAKE-A-WISH: CELEBRATING 25 YEARS IN NW OHIO
A14 ■ TOLEDO FREE PRESS
MARCH 29, 2009
Make-A-Wish marks 25 years of local service TOLEDO FREE PRESS NEWS EDITOR jryan@toledofreepress.com
Make-A-Wish Foundation of Northwest Ohio is celebrating its 25th year granting wishes in the Toledo area with annual events and fundraising opportunities for the community. Melissa Rozic, special event coordinator, said Make-A-Wish of Northwest Ohio works to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions in 21 counties. “We serve kids between 2 and a half and 18 with life-threatening illnesses,” Rozic said. “Anything they wish for, we try to provide for them. It’s an entirely cost-free experience for the wish child and their family.” Last year, the organization granted 85 wishes, and Rozic said this year it would be close to that number again. Make-A-Wish plans the wishes as soon as the children are referred, and it takes an average of six months to grant them. Rozic said Make-A-Wish of Northwest Ohio hosts three major events each year, along with fundraisers hosted by people in the community who wish to support the organization. Rozic said the nonprofit receives
calls from people who want to hold an event, such as a golf outing or raffle and average 70 fundraisers a year.
The three major events hosted by Make-A-Wish take place in the spring, fall and winter.
TOLEDO FREE PRESS PHOTO BY LAD STRAYER
By Julie Ryan
time event in November. Throughout the year, Make-AWish emphasizes the Kids for Wish Kids program, Rozic said, where school kids work to host a fundraiser for a wish kid and his or her wish. People can volunteer at Make-AWish as a wish granter volunteer or an event volunteer and help at fundraisers and events. “The wish-granter volunteers interact with the wish families and the wish child and help the child as they determine what their one true wish is,” Rozic said. For information call the MakeA-Wish office at (419) 244-WISH.
On the web
visit www.northwestohio.wish.org and click on links for more.
IMPACT PRODUCTS A Proud Supporter of ■
MELISSA ROZIC IS MAKE-A-WISH SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR FOR NW OHIO.
Save The Date! April 9, 2009 Look for The Andersons Market full page ad in next week’s Toledo Free Press. Clip our coupon in the April 5th edition to support Make-A-Wish® on April 9th.
Walk for Wishes will take place May 17 at Olander Park in Sylvania. Rozic said people can show up and walk or plan in advance and collect donations for Make-A-Wish. There will be activities at the park for families, such as zoo animals, clowns and inflatable toys. “There will be something for everyone,” Rozic said. A wine-tasting event will take place at the end of September or beginning of October, Rozic said, and feature 10 restaurants from Levis Commons and 100 different varieties of wine. Make-A-Wish’s biggest event, a sports auction at the SeaGate Centre, takes place in February each year, where 300 sports-related items are auctioned. To celebrate the 25th anniversary, Rozic is planning a large, one-
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A Proud Supporter of Make-A-Wish in celebration of David Collier, a 1994 Make-A-Wish recipient *Voucher good only at The Andersons Market in Sylvania. Excludes prior purchases, alcoholic beverages, stamps and gift cards. Voucher accepted on April 9, 2009 ONLY. CASHIER ATTACH THIS VOUCHER TO DUPLICATE RECEIPT & RETURN TO MARKETING, ATTN: NANCY TEMME.
Join us in supporting Make-A-Wish® Northwest Ohio Chapter.
William M. Connelly • Reginald S. Jackson, Jr. • Steven R. Smith Steven P. Collier • Michael A. Bonfiglio • Janine T. Avila Anthony E. Turley • Jason A. Hill
405 Madison Avenue, Suite 1600 • Toledo, Ohio 43604 419-243-2100 • 419-243-7119 Fax www.cjc-law.com
MAKE-A-WISH: CELEBRATING 25 YEARS IN NW OHIO
MARCH 29, 2009
Visit www.toledofreepress.com
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Join the Celebration!
April
Adult Compass Tennis Tournament (4/24/09)
May Sporting Clays Tournament (5/3/09) Walk for Wishes Toledo (5/17/09)
June
We grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength, and joy.
Mud Hens Outing (6/25/09)
July Make-A-Wish Day at The Toledo Zoo for Wish Children (7/25/09)
August Golf Classic (8/4/09)
September Walk for Wishes Lima (9/26/09)
October Vines & Vices Wine Tasting Event (10/1/09)
November 25th Anniversary Event (11/12/09)
December Breakfast with Santa at Applebeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s For more information about these events, sponsorship opportunities, or other ways to get involved, please call 419-244-9474 or visit www.northwestohio.wish.org.
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A16 ■ TOLEDO FREE PRESS
MAKE-A-WISH: CELEBRATING 25 YEARS IN NW OHIO
MARCH 29, 2009
Local girl’s wish: fly to Las Vegas, meet Rascal Flatts By Brandi Barhite TOLEDO FREE PRESS SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR bbarhite@toledofreepress.com
she was in and out of the hospital and went into cardiac arrest, causing the second stroke. “She was 1 year old and couldn’t hold her head up ... they didn’t even expect her to be able to talk or do anything on her own, and she does fairly well,” Josephine said. Jessica can speak, except when she decides to be shy. She wouldn’t answer too many questions, but made her family laugh when she talked about getting her own award during the country music show. The trip will include staying at MGM Grand Hotel/Casino, sitting
TOLEDO FREE PRESS PHOTO BY JOHN POLLOCK
Jessica Newton of Oregon is about to get her wish granted of attending the Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards. She just has one more wish. The Rascal Flatts fan hopes to spend time with the band members, who play one of her favorite songs, “My Wish.” She met the band for two minutes in Cincinnati a few years ago. Newton, 18, and her family leave for Las Vegas April 1. The all-ex-
pense paid trip for her mom, dad and two younger sisters is being provided through Make-A-Wish Foundation of Northwest Ohio. “That is her wish to be able to try to meet them while we are there, but going to the awards is a pretty good deal so we will take that,” said her mom Josephine Newton. Jessica was born with a congenital heart defect, later suffering from two strokes that caused her to have physical and developmental delays. When she was 4 months old, she underwent a procedure to correct a portion of her heart and had a stroke. When she was 9 months old,
in on rehearsals, as well as attending parties that will include the likes of Kellie Pickler, Matt Stillwell and LeAnn Rimes. On the night of the show, Toby Keith, Miranda Lambert, Tim McGraw, Heidi Newfield, Rascal Flatts, Sugarland and Taylor Swift will grace the ACM stage. The ceremony will be broadcast LIVE from MGM GRAND 8 p.m. April 5 on CBS. Sue Koester, a volunteer for Make-A-Wish, said this wish is a
little bit more of big deal because only one wish child per year gets to attend the show. Jessica will be showered with attention, although many of the details are kept secret until the family arrives, she said. When Koester first met Jessica in September 2007, the teen told her she wanted to have Rascal Flatts over for a cookout. Because that wasn’t possible, she settled on the concert. “She has been packed since the first of the year,” Koester said, laughing.
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JESSICA NEWTON WILL ATTEND THE ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS IN LAS VEGAS THROUGH MAKE-A-WISH.
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MARCH 29, 2009
MAKE-A-WISH: CELEBRATING 25 YEARS IN NW OHIO
Visit www.toledofreepress.com
A visit from the ‘Wish Man’
Who is eligible for a wish?
W
Who can refer a child?
The Craigs were flown to Calihen Craig Hollopeter visits a family that is to fornia to meet Bob Barker. Kristin receive a wish through received a big hug from the game show host legend. Make-A-Wish, he emSoon after, Craig pathizes with their signed up to be a wish uncertainty, their gratigranter. He’s remained tude and their pride, one since and has even which often needs to be served on the board. worked through to acAccording to Kimcept such gifts. berly Ray, wish proCraig and his gram manager, the former wife were in local chapter has 95 their early 20s when wish granters, who go their daughter, Kristin, Julie RUBINI through a classroom was born. At 8 months, she was diagnosed with Hurlers training session and work with a seaSyndrome, a genetic disorder. They soned granter to learn the process. Although he’s not sure how were told their child would suffer from a variety of physical deformi- many wishes he’s fulfilled, there is one child who Craig recalls above ties and not live past 6 or 7. Kristin was a blessing in their all others. Matthew’s family lived in Sanlives, always had a smile on her face and beat the odds by living to the dusky, and all he wanted was to go deep sea fishing. Soon after, Matage of 11½. The Make-A-Wish granter ar- thew, his brother and mom were rived on Craig’s doorstep when fishing. As sometimes fishing exKristin was 6 ½. As the team at- peditions go, his brother was bored, tempted to figure out what might and Matthew wasn’t feeling well. be best, the television played in the Mom insisted they stay out a little background. As the voice of “The longer, and then, magically, the crew Price is Right” announced, “Come caught a whopping 7-foot sailfish that Matthew helped reel in. on down,” Kristin smiled.
Unbeknownst to Matthew and his mom, Craig’s wish partner, Joe Schaller, made arrangements for the fish to be mounted. Matthew, frail with his disease, was on the couch when the box was delivered. Craig will never forget the look on Matthew’s face or the tears his mom shed at her son’s funeral when they recalled the granted wish. The sailfish remains mounted in the spot Matthew chose in their home, and as a tribute to her son, his mom became a wish granter. Craig said granting wishes is easier since the expansion of the Make-A-Wish mission. No longer are wishes just for children with lifeending illnesses. No longer is it a death sentence when the “Wish Man” arrives at the door. Now, he represents the opportunity to bring light into a family that has experienced much darkness. Somewhere, Kristin is still smiling. Julie Rubini lists her achievements in the order of their importance: wife and mom, the founder of Claire’s Day Inc., writer, with a background in sales/marketing and management.
■ A17
Any child between the ages of 2 ½ and 18 who suffers from a lifethreatening medical condition. The Make-A-Wish Foundation accepts wish referrals from the following sources: ■ The child ■ The child’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) ■ A medical professional treating the child, such as a doctor, nurse, social worker or child-life specialist.
How do you refer a child? You can refer a child by contacting Kimberly Ray at the Make-A-Wish office at (419) 244-9474 or by using the online wish referral form.
Determining eligibility The child’s treating physician makes the final determination about whether the child is medically eligible to receive a wish and whether the child is able to participate in the wish. The child must be able to identify a wish and cannot have received a prior wish from any wish-granting organization.
Identifying the wish After the doctor confirms that the child is medically eligible, the Make-A-Wish Foundation assigns a volunteer wish team to coordinate the wish-granting process. When a wish team first visits with a child, the volunteers begin by asking a simple question: “If you could have one wish, what would it be?”
Granting the wish After talking with the child, the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s “wish granters” set out to create a magical wish experience for the child that will last a lifetime. Every effort is made to include the immediate family in the child’s wish. Source: www.northwestohio.wish.org
NW Ohio Make-A-Wish Board of Directors
1/2 PAGE TOLEDO CATHOLIC
Chairman: Lawrence Burns Vice Chairman: Thomas P. Dillon Treasurer: Diane Allman Secretary: Joe Choate Past Chairman: John Payak III Marsha Assally Dan Cummins Dr. Larry Fanelly Dr. Debbie Frogameni Gina Garwood Dr. Lee Hammerling Patricia Hanna Mel Harbaugh Adam Insco Philip Johnson Maggie Kaser Douglas Kearns Kevin Kimmet Brenda Leggett Dr. David Mallory Marcy McMahon Jon Nicholson Phil Noble Chrys Peterson Kyle Pifner Steve Rafac Joe Rodriguez Bill Rossiter Craig Rush Joe Schaller Source: www.northwestohio.wish.org
A18 â&#x2013; TOLEDO FREE PRESS
MAKE-A-WISH: CELEBRATING 25 YEARS IN NW OHIO
MARCH 29, 2009
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This week’s columns by Tom Richard, Retirement Guys, Michael Drew Shaw and Eric Kurjan are posted at www.toledofreepress.com.
BUSINESS LINK Foreclosure help available at Fifth Third meeting
ECONOMY
ProMedica seeks stimulus funds for 25 projects By Duane Ramsey TOLEDO FREE PRESS SENIOR BUSINESS WRITER
Fifth Third Bank will host a special program for people at risk of mortgage foreclosure from 6 to 8 p.m. March 31 in the Neighborhood Center at Blessed Sacrament Church in Toledo. Lucas County Treasurer Wade Kapszukiewicz will show his support for this program by participating in this event. Attendees will learn about loss mitigation from Fifth Third Bank officials and what the lender requires to consider a mortgage loan for a workout plan. Fair Housing and Northwest Ohio Development Agency will discuss programs to prevent foreclosure. Consumer Credit Counseling Service will explain how financial counseling can help consumers through the loss mitigation process. Neighborhood Housing Services will offer a variety of foreclosure prevention solutions. A question-and-answer period will follow the presentations. Reservations are not required, but seating is limited. Call (419) 4186677 to reserve a seat.
Latta named to House Budget Committee Congressman Bob Latta (RBowling Green) has been appointed to the House Committee on the Budget. “Now more than ever, Congress must get serious about the trillions of dollars we spend each year in the budget,” Latta said after receiving his appointment. “My constituents, as well as millions of other taxpayers across the country, have made it clear that they are tired of out-of-control spending in Washington, and I look forward to conveying that message for them as a member of this important committee,”
dramsey@toledofreepress.com
ProMedica Health System was one company from Northwest Ohio that submitted its own requests for federal stimulus funding through the state of Ohio Department of Development. Gov. Ted Strickland announced federal stimulus funding for 149 transportation projects across the state March 26. However, it does not affect more than 22,800 other projects submitted to the state for stimulus funding. ProMedica submitted 25 proposals for projects ranging from $66,000 for a teen violence prevention program to $38 million for a complete acute-care electronic health record system known as EHR. “This is our wish list,” said Janet Lyon, vice president of grants and research administration at ProMedica, who coordinated the submissions. “We are still waiting to hear deadline dates for applying for funding for the various projects. “Grants are about getting funds to meet the community’s needs. Our philosophy is to submit the best grant proposals and hope they understand we have huge needs in this region,” she said. The projects are prioritized according to ProMedica’s corporate strategy, Lyon said. The top five priorities involve the development of an acute-care electronic health record system, a compatible physician electronic health record, and moving toward a seamless electronic system for the entire region, according to Paul Muneio, vice president of future technology and information systems at ProMedica. The electronic health record system would exchange clinical data with ProMedica’s physician electronic medical records and other national certified systems. It includes bar coding, medical administration, clinical documentation, computerized physician order entry, notes and decision support. The project will be implemented in all eight ProMedica hospitals and other facilities beginning in April 2010 and ending in January 2012, Muneio said. Another $2.5 million was requested to convert 200-plus physicians from a manual paper-based system to a full electronic health record by the end of 2010. ProMedica seeks $1.2 million in additional funds for backup hardware for primary disaster recovery and uninterruptible power supply for its three Lucas County hospitals. A project to develop electronic medical records
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PAUL MUNEIO HOLDS PAPER FILES THAT COULD BE TRANSFERRED TO DIGITAL FILES FOR PHYSICIAN SEAN RAE.
for surgical procedures would require another $5.2 million for equipment upgrades, computer hardware, software implementation and training. ProMedica requested $6.75 million to establish a regional health information network exchange for its facilities serving 27 counties in Ohio and Michigan. This network would eventually be linked to the National Health Record Database. The five infrastructure projects would create or retain about 75 jobs to operate and maintain the systems. Muneio said ProMedica plans to purchase a system from a single vendor who can provide all software required for them. A $500,000 project would implement a Radio Frequency Identification program to identify and track equipment and patients as they move throughout the system. Muneio said it’s important to have an integrated system with multiple facilities. “These projects will allow medical personnel to maximize their time while protecting patients with less chance for human error,” Muneio said. ProMedica requested $6.3 million for demolition of vacant floors six through nine and the mechanical floor of the Toledo Hospital South Building. It is estimated that the demolition could result in a $421,500 reduction in energy costs, Lyon said.
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Another $1.2 million was requested for renovation of the employee-patient parking garages used at Toledo Hospital and Children’s Hospital since the 1970s. Lyon said it was less costly to renovate the existing structures than to build new facilities. “These projects will create many construction jobs in the community,” Lyon said. ProMedica seeks $1.26 million for the $2 million expansion of the Goerhlich Center for Alzheimer patients on the Flower Hospital campus in Sylvania. The project would expand the facility from 48 to 60 beds and add six new staff positions to meet the increasing number of patients. Other proposals included $630,000 for Northwest Ohio Sickle Cell Treatment Center, $369,000 for expansion of the Pediatric Psychiatric Unit, $297,000 for free mammography screening for women enrolled in Ohio’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program, $280,000 to improve access to outpatient kidney dialysis and oncology services for children, $183,800 for the TCH Kids program at eight hospitals and tertiary care center, and $127,000 for the Hospital to Home Diabetes Support program for at-risk pregnant women. “The end game is providing the highest quality care to the right person at the right time,” Lyon said.
Call us for your business needs – Ken Connell 419-259-5945 Rich Heck 419-259-8530 Member FDIC
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A20 ■ TOLEDO FREE PRESS
You will nd your greatest ally in your ght against cancer to be ProMedica Cancer Institute. Every hour of every day, together with the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Center, we’re committed to uncovering new possibilities for early detection and shorter, safer treatments.
I will
talk about it. Here, you’ll nd leading-edge advancements such as a low-invasive, high-precision TomoTherapy® unit, stereotactic radio surgery, and high-dose rate radiation therapy (HDR). Throughout the region, ProMedica offers digital mammography for more accurate screenings, and the rst facility in Ohio to have the Varian Trilogy linear accelerator.
Together, we will discover every opportunity for a cancer-free tomorrow. For more information
about ProMedica Cancer Institute and its programs call 1-877-291-1441 or visit www.promedica.org
© 2009 ProMedica Health System
MARCH 29, 2009
This week’s Dave Woolford column is posted online at www.toledofreepress.com.
PLAY AT FULL STRENGTH With the experts in sports medicine
SPORTS
Injury Management • Rehabilitation • Performance Enhancement
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PREP SPORTS
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THE START HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM REACTS TO THE TEAM’S MARCH 21 LOST TO STATE POWERHOUSE MOUNT NOTRE DAME.
Start girls look back at magical season By Byron Trimble SPECIAL TO TOLEDO FREE PRESS
The Start girls’ basketball team fell just short of happily ever after, although it’s still a season worth remembering. “I knew with time we could be good,” said all-state senior Yolanda Richardson. “I never doubted our talent level. I always knew we could make it this far.” The Spartans lost in the Division I state title game March 21 to the now four-time defending state champion Mount Notre Dame, 52-38.
“I knew since day one,” said sophomore Maleeka Kynard. “When we added Tiffani [Blackman], I felt we were complete to make a run.” Kynard’s statement offers a glimpse into the makeup of the team. Blackman, a junior transfer student from Bowsher, was not allowed to play until the last three games of the season due to transfer rules. “She was always encouraging us in games and practices to get better,” Kynard said. “She would help out the coaches and help the younger girls with moves and drills.” Coach Bob Brown talked about
the team’s two seniors. Richardson won All-Ohio honors and will play at UT next season, and has been the leader from day one, Brown said. And Staci Bostic was “a scrapper and a glue-player.” Kynard and Richardson cannot talk too long about the playoff experience without beaming. Kynard referenced a moment in the hotel room when all the girls started screaming, realizing the magnitude of their success. Richardson talked about the fun the girls had together the night after the title game, a time when most
teams would sulk and pout after losing a game of such magnitude. “We could’ve pointed fingers, but we’re a team. We love each other and made it this far together.” The Spartans lose only two players to graduation. They return a host of young players, including sophomore Kynard. “I like our team [going into next year],” Brown said. “They’re extreme hard workers who mutually learned a great deal and gained a great amount of experience of what it takes to play at the highest level. “After the game, I told them they
had an amazing run,” Brown said. “But I told them to remember the feeling … I’m not ready for it to end, but I guess it had to sometime.” Before this season, the Spartans had never won a league title. This year, they won the league title, district and regional titles and finished second in the state. “I think nobody gave us credit. I think you have to earn it, but everyone looked at us as good, but not great,” Brown said. “But our work ethic and blue-collar approach helped prove to people that we are better than they think we are.”
This Week’s SONIC High School Athletes of the Week Phillip Beans, Senior, Ottawa Hills
Yolanda Richardson, Senior, Start
Phillip is a senior and a member of the Ottawa Hills varsity basketball team. Beans, a 6-8 center, was named to the Division III second team All-State team. He averaged 22.1 points per game this year for the Green Bears. He will attend Holy Cross next fall to play basketball. Sonic congratulates Phillip Beans and Ottawa Hills for their outstanding performance.
Yolanda is a senior and a member of the Start girls varsity basketball team. She helped Start reach the Division I state Final Four. She scored 15 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in a 52-38 defeat against Cincinnati Mount Notre Dame. Start was the first public school team since 1981 to reach the state Final Four. The lady Spartans finished the season with a 22-4 record. Sonic congratulates Yolanda Richardson and Start for their outstanding performance.
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Ohio Turnpike draws the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fastest speeders (AP) The State Highway Patrol says lead-foot drivers on the Ohio Turnpike accounted for a lot of speeding tickets last year. The patrol says nearly one out of every five drivers who its troopers cited for exceeding the speed limit by 20 mph or more was caught on the turnpike. Troopers who patrol the toll road across northern Ohio say itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s difficult to pinpoint a reason there were so many speeders. Drivers in Erie, Sandusky and Lorain counties along with Summit County in northeast Ohio each had more than 2,000 citations last year for speeding. Hamilton County in southeast Ohio led the state. Other counties topping the list are Montgomery, Franklin and Stark.
AUTO SENSE
Does your car adapt to your driving style? I
get many questions from readers varying environmental parameters as regarding their automotive re- well. This adaptive capability is accomlated concerns and I thought I plished much in the same manner. Both these adaptive capabilities can would share a few with you. be performed by your Stu from Oregon powertrain managewants to know if his ment computer either vehicle can adapt to for a short-term shift the way he drives. in operational paramThe answer is yes, eters or for a longStu, your vehicle does term shift in those continuously adapt to same parameters. It changing conditions only depends on the as you drive. This conditions your veability to adapt as you hicles on-board comdrive is referred to by Nick SHULTZ puter sensors detect technicians as â&#x20AC;&#x153;adaptive strategy.â&#x20AC;? The adaptive strategy regarding monitored environmental process is simply a set of instruc- and mechanical parameters. After a battery change, those tions programmed into your vehicles powertrain management systems adaptive parameters will be lost on-board computer that enables the within your computerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s memory, computer to change fuel delivery and and you may notice a difference in spark timing commands in order to the way your vehicle operates until accommodate for the changing envi- your on-board computer re-learns ronmental or mechanical conditions those sensed parameters. The next question comes from that can affect engine performance. This reprogramming of your vehicle Lora from Toledo, who wants to know about a whining or screeching happens as you drive. Vehicles have had this capability for sound only when she turns right a long time. Modern vehicles also have with her front-wheel drive car. Lora, the problem is most likely the ability to adapt transmission shift schedules to meet driver habits and in the front left wheel bearing of
your car. When you turn right, you throw the weight of the vehicle to the left, which is loading the bearing. This additional load is causing the bearing to squeal. Had you noticed a clicking sound on turns, then we may have had issues with the axle shaft constant velocity joint. Art, also from Toledo, wants to know if he takes his vehicle into the dealership if they will wait for the engine to cool before they replace his spark plugs. Apparently, Art read my column on replacing spark plugs a few weeks back and is concerned that the servicing dealership may damage his heads by not allowing the engine to cool properly before they remove his spark plugs. Not to worry, Art, your servicing dealership employs master technicians who are aware of the problems associated with removing spark plugs from a cold engine. Be advised, however, that if your spark plugs have been in your engine for a long time, they may still be difficult for the technician to remove. Finally, Kyle from Sylvania is restoring a classic Chevrolet and wondered about replacing the breaker point ignition system with
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an electronic ignition system. Kyle is concerned that the value of the vehicle will be diminished with the upgraded ignition system. Kyle, you stated in your e-mail that you were planning on driving the vehicle for a while after you get it restored. The electronic ignition upgrade will give you much better service in the field than could ever be achieved by the mechanical breaker point ignition system it has in it now. I definitely suggest you perform this upgrade. If you are concerned about the decreased value of the vehicle be-
cause of upgraded ignition system, then simply keep the old distributer and replace it before you sell the car. Nick Shultz is an instructor of automotive technologies at Owens Community College. He is an arbitrator for the Better Business Bureau who specializes in cases involving the Ohio and Michigan Lemon laws. He is a certified master automotive technician by ASE, General Motors and Ford Motor Co. Shultz, a Toledo native, will take questions at letters@toledofreepress.com.
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RULES OF THE ROAD
Traffic camera backlash growing in Ohio cities
By Kantele Franko ASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER
Opponents of traffic-enforcement cameras have helped to block camera proposals in two Ohio cities and are fighting to remove them in two others, hoping to build momentum amid a growing backlash since Cincinnati voters banned the devices in November. The Coalition Opposed to Additional Spending and Taxes (COAST), which urged the Cincinnati ban, is working to petition against cameras used in Toledo and Chillicothe in southeast Ohio, said Chris Finney, COAST’s legal counsel. “What we’ve tried to do with our success last year in Cincinnati is go around the state and tell people, ‘You don’t have to put up with this,’’’
Finney said. The cameras are intended to catch people driving through red lights or speeding in slow zones, but the group views them as a form of government spying that boosts city coffers without increasing safety. One factor that appears to be driving the increased opposition is a sense that some cities in dire economic straits are focusing on the cameras as a source of revenue rather than as a safety tool, said Toledo police Chief Michael Navarre. “That is really rubbing people the wrong way because that is not the purpose of the cameras,’’ he said, adding that even he isn’t a big fan of using the cameras to track speed-limit violations in addition to red-light violations, as about half of his city’s 30 traffic cameras do.
The cameras are expected to generate nearly $2 million in revenue for Toledo this year, a sore spot for some residents. Similar concerns about a profit motive were raised as camera opponents tallied two victories recently in stopping proposals. “Something that can start out for pure reasons can easily get twisted for revenue reasons later on once the money starts coming in,’’ said Brian Wisniewski, a councilman in the Columbus suburb of Pickerington who opposed red-light cameras there. City council members voted 6-1 on March 24 against a proposal after the police chief told them it had lost public support. In northeast Ohio, Canton Mayor William Healy gave up on plans to install cameras in school
zones and accident-prone intersections, citing opposition from residents that led to a lack of support from city officials. He intended the proposal as a pilot program to test whether the devices could improve safety locally, he said, but wary activists claimed cameras in other cities led to increased fender-benders and unfairly targeted car owners who lent their cars to unsafe drivers. Those are among the arguments COAST is making in Toledo, where it wants to change the charter — as Cincinnati did — to permanently ban the cameras, Finney said. The effort in Chillicothe would seek a change to local regulations, which would more easily be repealed, he said.
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■ A23
INDUSTRY
Auto suppliers to get $5 billion in federal aid By Ken Thomas ASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER
The Treasury Department will pump up to $5 billion in financing into troubled auto parts suppliers to prevent an auto industry collapse that could undermine the government’s work to restructure General Motors and Chrysler. The funds, announced March 25, will be made available from the government’s Troubled Assets Relief Program, or TARP, in a financial entity similar to a revolving credit. Large suppliers would be eligible for financing auto parts they have shipped to the Detroit carmakers but have not yet received payment. U.S. automakers — General Motors Corp., Chrysler LLC and Ford Motor Co. — will have the option of using the program and designate the companies that need financing, giving them a large role in determining which parts suppliers will survive. The program could have a significant impact in Ohio, which ranks first in the United States in the number of auto suppliers. GM and Chrysler, which have received $17.4 billion in government loans, said they would use the program. Ford, which has not sought the government aid, said in a statement it would not participate “as we remain viable and expect no issue with continued payments to our suppliers.’’ The action was intended to help with the cash flow needs and stability of distressed auto suppliers, whose collapse could lead to the disruption of car production and inflict more damage on the economy. Members of the auto task force, who spoke on condition of anonymity because their discussions have been private, said the financing was a first step in restructuring the car industry. They expect to provide a framework for revamping GM and Chrysler by March 31. “The program will provide supply companies with muchneeded access to liquidity to assist them in meeting payrolls and covering their expenses while giving the domestic auto companies reliable access to the parts they need,’’ Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner said in a statement. Officials said foreign automakers with U.S. operations would not be eligible to use the so-called “supplier support program.’’ ■ FUNDS CONTINUES ON A24
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A24 â&#x2013; TOLEDO FREE PRESS â&#x2013; FUNDS CONTINUED FROM A23 Auto suppliers have sought as much as $25 billion to stabilize the beleaguered U.S. auto industry and have met with members of President Barack Obamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s auto industry panel, which is trying to restructure GM and Chrysler. The two companies want an additional $21.6 billion in aid. Neil De Koker, president of the Original Equipment Suppliers Association, said he was â&#x20AC;&#x153;very optimistic that this will provide many companies with the relief they need.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; But the program was not intended to save company in the supply chain. Treasury officials said certain suppliers would still fail as
part of the natural business cycle, and analysts expect some suppliers to collapse because the industry has too much manufacturing capacity for current sales levels. David Cole, chairman of the Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor, Mich., said the financing will likely be used for suppliers that make complex engineered components that are made by few companies. Suppliers that manufacture body side moldings and other parts that can be duplicated elsewhere will not likely receive the aid, he said. In a statement, General Motors said the program could â&#x20AC;&#x153;reduce the risk of vehicle production disruptions that would occur if auto suppliers
MARCH 29, 2009
were unable to produce due to lack of access to working capital liquidity.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Chrysler spokeswoman Shawn Morgan declined to comment. Suppliers who ship parts to car companies typically receive payment for those shipments about 45 to 60 days later. Under normal credit conditions, suppliers sell or borrow against those commitments to pay their workers and fund their operations.
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■ A25
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A26
ARTS LIFE
Concert to honor deceased musician Friends of Joe Mohler, a local musician who passed away Feb. 16, will play March 28 at the Blue Devil to raise funds for funeral and medical expenses. Scheduled performers will be D.A. and the Prosecutors, Old School, Running with Scissors, and Bill and Rick Edelman. Cover will be a $5 donation. — Julie Ryan
IN CONCERT
HOLLIDAY TRAVELS
Train (not) in vain Composer excited to premiere his
W
e’re on a train, traveling staying a night or two in each as this between London and trip is strictly business, researching Edinburgh. It’s the 11 hotels and attractions, reacquainting ourselves with a part of Britain we a.m. out of King’s Cross Station. haven’t set foot Our carriage in for a decade is first class — in and getting every sense. ready for a Liveried in blue more extended and gray, comfy, stay in Sepuncluttered and tember. quiet. We have reserved window T i m e seats with a passes so good-sized table sedately between us for on a train reading, writing — we’ve just Roger HOLLIDAY (forget the ‘rithgone through Claudia FISCHER metic) and for Pe t e r b o r o u g h holding the — several daily coffee cups, cookies and bottled newspapers to soak up, favorite water, which come courtesy of Na- columnists to laugh with and an tional Express, which operates this ever-changing panorama of fields, north-south section of the British farmland, forests and seascapes, railway system. plus the chance to relive — with The journey to Edinburgh, the help of a digital camera “diary” scheduled for four hours and 20 — some of the things we did in our minutes, departed right on time London week. and runs up the eastern side of Like, for example, staying in this currently sunny “sceptered the North London hill village of isle.” Outside temperature is 10 de- Hampstead. Taking a two-hour grees Celsius — several centigrades stroll of this ancient enclave with a lower than recently, when Britain guide from London Walks — the was basking under positively balmy pioneering guided walks company springtime skies. — and hearing about the amazing We’re in a particularly happy cast of characters who have clogged mood. Not just because we love these streets since its first mention riding the trains — even the much- in the Domesday Book 1,000 years maligned British ones — but also be- ago. Names like Keats and Concause we have a full Scottish week of stable. Dickens and Dick Turpin. touring ahead of us with stops at pic- The Du Mauriers. John Harrison of turesque outposts such as Inverness Longtitude clock fame. And more and Oban. Our train rides are all paid recent sojourners like Peter O’Toole, for and unlimited, thanks to an eight- Judy Dench and Boy George! day BritRail Pass; $455 for seniors. Then there was a special tour of Our lodgings in each of the cities are the Houses of Parliament arranged all booked and confirmed. for us by a former schoolmate who OK, so they’re only “bed-in-a- is now a member of parliament, a box” budget digs like IBIS and Premier lawyer and a novelist (no, it’s not Inns and Easy Hotels (offshoot of the Jeffrey Archer). That was followed EasyJet operation) but at least they by a pint of Best Bitter on a boat won’t break our bank at an average of overlooking the River Thames, Big $75 per night — not bad for expen■ HOLLIDAY CONTINUES ON A29 sive Britain. And anyway, we’re only
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work at UT Festival of New Music
Lone Star Wind Orchestra. He has received commissions from more than 30 schools and arts organizations. His music has been performed across the country and For composer Christopher Tucker, it’s all about the in Japan, Germany and England. In 2006, he released “Twilight in the Wilderness,” melody. a disc featuring compositions for wind ensemble. A “Melody is what listeners attach themselves follow-up, “Spirit Legend,” came out in 2008. to when they experience a piece of music,” “Not only were these commercial CDs, but he said. “If the piece gives you a sense of they were a means of getting my music out so longing after you’ve left a performance interested colleagues and band directors that or a movie, it’s the melody that you’re look to perform those kinds of works could going to continue to whistle as you hear them,” Tucker said. leave.” While at UT, the 32-year-old composer Tucker hopes there’s a lot of whiswill give a talk April 2, at 1 p.m. in the tling and humming after the premiere Center for Performing Arts Recital Hall on of “A Feather in the Morning Air” Main Campus. during the 32nd annual Festival of The Festival of New Music will begin New Music on April 2, at 8 p.m. in the March 31, with a concert featuring University of Toledo’s Doermann Theater percussion and electronic on Main Campus. media compositions from “The piece was originally comthe UT Electronic Music posed for 10 winds, inspired by Studio and the premiere the music of Percy Grainger of an original song for and elements in nature,” he voice and piano by said. “My intention in the UT student Sarah piece was to take my own Modene featuring style of composing, my UT freshman Sam own melodies and also Mason, tenor. Percy Grainger’s not so The event much his original melowill start at dies, but one melody in 8 p.m. in the particular he loved to use Center for Perwas ‘Danny Boy,’ what he forming Arts called an Irish tune from Recital Hall. County Derry. That melody Chamber also takes some of his style, music will be his techniques, and I fused it featured at 8 p.m. into my own. April 1 in the Center “It will be an honor and a for Performing Arts Rethrill to hear it played by the cital Hall. UT Symphony Orchestra with For more information all the instruments.” on these free, public UT’s Concert Chorale, Orevents, contact the chestra, and Symphonic Band and UT Music DepartWind ensembles will perform Tuckment at (419) 530er’s “Ceremonial Fanfare,” “Twilight 2448 or visit the in the Wilderness” and “Americans Web site www. Lost” during the concert. utoledo.edu/as/ Tucker, who lives in Rockwall, CHRISTOPHER TUCKER music. Texas, is the director of artistic administration and a founder of the By Vicki L. Kroll
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ARTS LIFE
MARCH 29, 2009
■ A27
Visit www.toledofreepress.com
FAMILY PRACTICE
Memories of Grandma: So long, Southwyck things I would never consider my own children taking note of during excursions to our own current stomping grounds. There was something almost magical about the carousel of pay phones that took center stage near the
Shannon SZYPERSKI
W
hen I read that Southwyck was being torn down, it initially registered as the finalization of just another local commercial casualty. However, it didn’t take long for memories of the once-thriving mall to surface and make me realize that I’m really going to miss the place. When I was a child, Southwyck meant a great deal to me and my family. My grandma was a regular there for many years. She didn’t spend much money on merchandise, but she instead became somewhat of a living fixture — a part of the mall itself. Many of her days were spent riding the TARTA bus from her little apartment to her second home at Southwyck to spend a long day of coffee drinking and chain smoking in the corner coffee shop. It was always a thrill when I would have the opportunity to tag along with her on the big bus and take part in her daily meanderings. The TARTA bus ride was a treat in itself. How exciting it was to be the one to drop the dimes into the coin slot and hear that familiar clinking sound as each one landed. How fascinating it was to see the hustle and bustle of Downtown on the days we would detour our trip just for the fun of it. How lucky I was to be taken along for the ride. No matter where else we decided to wander to in Toledo, Southwyck always remained our No. 1 destination. I can still remember the feeling of running up and down the carpeted steps, tossing a coin in the fountain, taking a spin on the carousel and sucking down an Orange Julius. And then there was Olde Towne. If I could transport myself to a place that no longer physically exists, it would perhaps be there. As an adult, I likely would see it as just another part of the mall, but as a child the tunnellike entrance and vintage theming were enough to convince me that we had discovered a hidden piece of kid heaven from yesteryear. It is amazing to realize the little things that children must observe in their every day and tuck away as memories. I can remember seemingly obscure details from my days exploring the halls of Southwyck,
entrance. Extra special were the days that we had occasion to use one or that we found a quarter someone else had forgotten. Such subtleties of my Southwyck days still fill the seldomvisited corners of my mind: the golden lions guarding Lion Store, the
pudding cups with whipped cream and a cherry on top at the Forum Cafeteria, a wooden donation box on the counter of Frisch’s Big Boy marked “Little Sisters of the Poor.”
Upcoming
■ SZYPERSKI CONTINUES ON A29
New Sunday Hours Effective Sun. April 5 8am-9pm
You’re only a hops, skip, and jump a whey from the barley and a good time.
with Walt Churchill’s Market
“Brother Can You Spare A Dime” Tax Day Special April 13-15 11am-2pm Ham on Rye $1.00 Small Coffee 10¢
Wing & Rib Madness During NCAA Men’s Final Four Saturday, April 4th 11a-5p Monday, April 6th 12p-6p
Over 10 Different styles of Ribs and Wings to choose from.
We will also be sampling a variety of beers. Must be 21 years of age or older.
(50% OFF THE COVER PRICE)
We Ha
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Rao’s Homemade Specialty Foods With purchase of any 3 Rao’s products receive an autographed Rao’s cookbook for $20!
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• Pasta 17.6 oz. $3.99 • Pasta Pasta Sauce 24 oz. $6.99 • Imported Peeled Tomatoes 28 oz. 2/$7 • Extra Virgin Olive Oil Oil 16.9 oz. $10.99 • 12-Year Balsamic 8.5 oz. $3.00 OFF • Roasted Peppers 12 oz. $6.99 • Marinades, Dressings, or Vinaigrette 12 oz. $3.99
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3320 Briarfield Blvd. • Maumee, OH • (419) 794-4000 Hours: Mon.-Sat. 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. • Sun. 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
WWW.WALTCHURCHILLSMARKET.COM Available now through 4/05/09 • We reserve the right to limit quantities. • No sales to vendors. • Not responsible for pictorial or typographical errors.
Great Time.
Live Entertainment Thurs - Fri - Sat For music listings, drink specials, and weekly dining specials, go to:
theblarneyirishpub.com FRI. APRIL 3 Resonant Soul 9pm-1am SAT. APRIL 4 Acoustic Shoes 9pm-1am
601 Monroe St.
Right Across from Fifth Third Field
A28 ■ TOLEDO FREE PRESS
ARTS LIFE
MARCH 29, 2009
BMSC, Inc. Presents
Toledo Body, Mind, Spirit Festival Saturday, April 4th • 10 am - 6 pm & Sunday, April 5th • 10 am - 6 pm Keynote Speaker Kimmie Rose Zapf of CBS’s Psychic Radio Network will be presenting, and will also be available for private readings.
Special Guests Judy Lynne Cole & Tom Myers of Healing Partnerships will demonstrate sonic mandalas through their new laser, The K.I.S.S. (Kymotrophic Imaging Sound System)
FREE Admission • FREE Parking • FREE Lectures & Classes Both Days • Over 9,000 Sq. Ft. of Vendors!
Aura Photography • Jewelry • Artwork • Tarot Readers • Astrologers Massage • Aromatherapy • and Much More... There will be a special raffle to benefit BMSC, Inc., a non-profit dedicated to providing cancer patients with healing meditational CD’s
Only 10 minutes west of the Toledo Airport on Airport Highway! Delta Banquet Hall • 6800 Industrial Drive • Delta, OH
For Information & Event Schedule: (734) 274-2840 or www.ToledoBodyMindSpiritFestival.com Sponsored by: Healing Garden World, Lite The Way, Midnightmoon Metaphysical Shoppe & SomaEnergetics
ARTS LIFE
MARCH 29, 2009 ■ HOLLIDAY CONTINUED FROM A26 Sundays are always special times to be Londoners, even temporary ones. And this one was certainly no exception, with thousands celebrating St Paddy’s Day via parades, music and clogging in Trafalgar Square and thousands more watching a big rugby match against the French. We opted instead for a brunchy stroll through the East End markets of Spitalfields and Petticoat Lane, filled with all manner of bric-a-brac, collectibles, clothes and food, then sat outside, people watching, munching on Ozzie burgers and French fries. And, then, to top it, England unexpectedly wallopped the French in the
rugby match. Brilliant. Another day, we took a quick trip up to Cambridge and joined a delightful tour of this ancient university town, where learning was launched in the 14th century. As the students were on Easter break, the colleges and quads were uncharacteristically subdued. We capped off the week with a visit to the city of Bath, a spa and health resort since Roman times, where water still springs from the earth’s core at 49 degrees Celsius. The free two-hour city tour, conducted by one of 60 volunteer guides, took us round the many highlights. “Ladies and gentlemen, the train will shortly be arriving in Edinburgh …”
Full Lebanese Menu Italian Specialties
Full Lebanese Menu Daily Luncheon Specials
Mon.-Thurs. 4 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m. beirutrestaurant.com
Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Sat. 5 p.m.-11:30 p.m. e-mail: labibh@aol.com
Creative Appetizers & Salads • Exotic Desserts • Lamb Specialties Vegetarian & Health Dishes • Homemade Pizza & Sauces CATERING & BANQUETS FOR ANY OCCASION CARRY-OUT AVAILABLE
Full Bar & Large Selection of Domestic & Imported Beer
Featuring “small plates” of the Mediterranean.
Large selection of Italian, Spanish, Middle East, and Greek specialties. Mon.-Fri. 11:30am-11pm Saturday 5pm-11pm Full Bar, Sangria, Imported and Domestic Beer & Wines
(419) 885-0101 5333 MONROE
(419) 473-0885
(419) 382-1600
4082 MONROE
1050 S. REYNOLDS
(419) 931-0281 LEVIS COMMONS
Just East of Douglas
North of Airport Hwy.
NEW BANQUET ROOM
Visit www.toledofreepress.com ■ SZYPERSKI CONTINUED FROM A27 Individually such things seem insignificant now, but the memories of them combine to give that period in my life importance. Those days spent with my grandma on the TARTA bus and at Southwyck Mall were important. They not only left me with fond memories but also offered me a few life lessons along the way. We didn’t just sit on a bus or in a coffee shop wasting the day away. We watched people, talked to people and talked to one another. No one was ever too good, too bad or too different to strike up a conversation with. Nothing was ever too dull to chat about. My grandma was spending the day taking care of me and I was spending it taking care of her. When my Grandma Purdy died in 1988, part of me wanted to somehow memorialize her at Southwyck. I thought that we could just hang a little sign somewhere within its walls to let the world know that
■ A29
that was the corner of the world where she had left her essence. It’s odd to think that such a sign would now be gone, too. At first it feels impossible that someone or something of enduring significance could ever be physically gone forever, but that is the reality we are forced to accept over and over throughout life. I am quite certain that there was something that preceded Southwyck that someone else just hated to see go in order to build an oversized place to shop. There will be something after Southwyck and another something after that. Each generation needs to take the good times and life lessons away from its own places of significance. We also need to accept when the rest of the world is ready to take us in a new direction. Shannon Szyperski and her husband Michael are raising two children in Sylvania. E-mail her at letters@toledofreepress.com.
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OIL CHANGE Motorcraft® Premium Synthetic Blend Oil & Filter Change
$1995
Using the oil recommended for your vehicle helps save fuel.
Up to five quarts of Motorcraft® oil and Motorcraft oil filter. Taxes, diesel vehicles and disposal fees extra. See Quick Lane® Manager for vehicle applications and details. Offer valid with coupon. Expires: 4/11/09.
WIPERS Set of Motorcraft® Starting at Wiper Blades, Installed!
$ 95
9
after $10 mail-in rebate
Retail purchases only. Per pair, installed, starting at $19.95. Taxes extra. $10 mail-in rebate with purchase of two Motorcraft® wiper blades. Rebate form must be postmarked by 04/30/09. Offer valid with coupon. See Quick Lane® Manager for rebate form, vehicle applications and details. Expires 4/11/09.
TIRES We’ll Beat Your Best Price...
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Quick Lane at Brondes Ford Toledo 5545 Secor Road, Toledo, OH 43623
419-471-2969
CLASSIFIEDS
A30 ■ TOLEDO FREE PRESS
COMMUNITY
FOR SALE
ADOPTIONS
FURNITURE
PREGNANT? NOT ready to parent? Give your baby the gift of adoption. We can help. Expenses paid. Confidential, toll-free 1-866-206-2936.
$150 Queen pillow top mattress set. Never used, in plastic. Hand delivered. 419-707-2954.
ADOPT: A baby is our dream! Let us provide your baby with a wonderful life filled with opportunities and close extended family! Expenses paid. Please call Lauren and John 1-866-649-0205.
LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION FOR BIDS The Lucas Metropolitan Housing Authority is seeking bids from qualified contractors to furnish all labor, materials, and equipment for the following project(s): JOB NO.: 29016. PROJECT NAME: Elevator Alterations at Ashley Arms Apartments. WALK-THRU DATE: Tuesday, April 7, 2009 @ 10:00am. BID OPENING DATE: Tuesday, April 21, 2009 @ 11:00am. All bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the 2nd Floor Conference Room on the dates shown above, in the Redevelopment & Capital Investments Department (formerly Modernization), at 201 Belmont Street. Contract documents and technical specifications/drawings will be available from the RCI/Modernization Department, and will be provided upon request. The prevailing wages for this locality, as established by the Department of Labor and Wage Determination OH20080028, as modified, must be paid all persons employed for this work. Lucas Metropolitan Housing Authority reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or to waive any informality in the bidding. No bids shall be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days subsequent to the opening of the bids. All bidders shall be required to meet the Affirmative Action requirements and Equal Employment Opportunity requirements as described in Executive Order #11246. Each bidder must insure that all employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of their, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, handicap, age, ancestry, or military status. LUCAS METROPOLITAN HOUSING AUTHORITY RCI/MODERNIZATION DEPARTMENT
MARCH 29, 2009
NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA
Bedroom set. 5 piece “solid wood”. New in box. List $1,800. Sell $695. 419-897-9062.
419-724-7437
7 piece new queen and style dining set. Upholstered chairs, Still in boxes. $450. 419-707-9970.
Your wallet won’t need a bailout with our Happy Hour Prices!
Microfiber living room 5 piece set. Never used, in box. List $1,499. Sell $575. Hand delivered. 419707-2954.
MISCELLANEOUS GOODS
$1.00 Domestics & Wells Monday - Friday
DIRECTV FREE 4 Room System! All 265+ Channels Free 4 Months! 130 HD Channels! Ends Soon, Ask How! Free DVR/HD! Packages Start $29.99/Month! No Start Costs! Were Local Installers! 1-800-973-9027.
WEEKLY LUNCH SPECIAL:
FREE DIRECTV 4 Room System! All 265+ Channels Free 4 Months! 130 HD Channels! Ends Soon, Ask How! Free DVR/HD! Packages Start $29.99/Month! No Start Costs! We’re Local Installers! 1-800-306-1953.
2 SLICES OF PIZZA AND A SODA FOR
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Tuesday to Friday until 2:00 PM Pick Up Only - Must Bring Coupon
HAULING & DUMPSTER RENTAL
Safer than a Trailer Metro Toledo’s H.A.I. Roll-off Dumpsters Fast Delivery!
#1
$4.95
COUPON EXPIRES: 4-30-09
Call 419.241.1700, ext 233 to place a Classified Ad!
28 South Saint Clair • Downtown Toledo
in Service EMPLOYMENT DRIVER/DELIVERY/COURIER ATTN: NEW DRIVERS TRAINCO TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL DAY-EVE-WEEKEND CLASS • CDL Testing on site • Lifetime Job Placement • UAW Welcome • Ohio Job and Family Services Approved • Company Paid Training • 4 Weeks Training for the price of 3! PERRYSBURG, OH 419-837-5730 TAYLOR, MI 734-374-5000 Train Local Save Hassle www.traincoinc.com
Best Prices!
419-824-6400 www.haidumpsters.com • 6, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 & 40 yd. containers • Special Weekend Rates • Discount Prices *credit cards accepted
RENTALS APARTMENTS FOR RENT For Lease 2 master bedrooms, 2 baths, 2.5 car garage, washer/dryer and all extras. $1095. Please call 419-536-1991.
GENERAL EMPLOYMENT SOCIAL WORK Assessors/Interviewers (Job Code: PP/FF9/99001) Experienced household interviewers sought in the Toledo metro area for a study being conducted for Princeton University. Data collection includes interviews with parents (by telephone or in person) and one-on-one assessments of 9-year-old children during home visits. Must be computer literate and able to lift and carry up to 35 lbs. Position requires working a minimum of 20 hours per week. Bilingual in Spanish a plus. Training will be held February April 28- May 2, 2009 with data collection from April through December. To apply, email your resume to: Year9Parents@Westat.com. WESTAT EOE OCEAN CORP. Houston, Texas. Train for New Career. Underwater Welder, Commercial Diver, NDT/Weld Inspector. Job placement and financial aid for those who qualify, 1-800-321-0298. 1000 ENVELOPES= $10,000 guaranteed! Receive $10 for every envelope stuffed with our sales material. Free 24 hour recorded information. 1-800-491-9377.
Go to www.toledofreepress.com and click on the iSavers button to download money-saving coupons!
REAL ESTATE OPEN HOUSES HOUSES AREA
DAY/TIME
ADDRESS
DESCRIPTION
PRICE
LISTED BY
AGENT
PHONE
Perrysburg
Sun 12-3
28650 Hufford Rd.
5 BR, 2 Baths, 3188 sf, 2 Car Ga
$174,900
Assist2Sell
Kris Kryder
419-277-8097
Perrysburg
Sun 2-4
984 E. Boundary
3 BR, 1 Bath, 1580 sf, 2 Car Gar
$179,900
Assist2Sell
Stephany Williams
419-376-0318
Rossford
Sun 2-4
1281 Grassy Ct.
3 BR, 2 Baths, 1854 sf, 2 Car Gar
$189,900
Assist2Sell
Karen Neiger
419-261-5695
Waterville
Sun 1-3
826 Cherry
3 BR, 1.1 Baths, 1050 sf, 1.5 Car Gar
$147,000
Assist2Sell
Jackie Lewis
419-450-3302
MARCH 29, 2009
Visit www.toledofreepress.com
■ A31
B
BOXELL INTERIORS INC. 419.882.2264
4230 N. Holland-Sylvania Rd. Toledo, OH 43623
www.boxellinteriors.com
SPRING SALE EVENT - 25% to 60% Off Store Wide! Sat. Mar. 28th (10 am - 2 pm), Mar. 30 & 31 (9 am - 5 pm) April 1, 2 & 3 (9 am - 7 pm), Sat. April 4 (10 am - 2 pm) • Fine Furniture • Distinctive Art • Unique Accessories
• Creative Wall Coverings • Quality Floor Coverings • Space Planning
• Color Consultation • Custom Window Treatments • Bedding
A32 ■ TOLEDO FREE PRESS
MARCH 29, 2009
COUPON EVENT CHOOSE YOUR COUPON. CHOOSE YOUR SAVINGS.
100off 50off 50off free %
$
select sofas
any purchase of 799 or more
$
Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Valid only at participating Ashley HomeStores. HomeStores are independently owned and operated. See store for complete details. Expires 04/06/09.
%
select recliners
with the purchase any 5 piece living room
with the purchase of the loveseat, chair or recliner
Ashley Rug
with the purchase 5 pc dining room (table & 4 side chairs) of $999 or more
Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Valid only at participating Ashley HomeStores. HomeStores Valid only at participating Ashley HomeStores. HomeStores Valid only at participating Ashley HomeStores. HomeStores are independently owned and operated. See store for are independently owned and operated. See store for are independently owned and operated. See store for complete details. Expires 04/06/09. complete details. Expires 04/06/09. complete details. Expires 04/06/09.
50off 50off 50off free %
select entertainment centers with the purchase of any 5 piece living room
Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Valid only at participating Ashley HomeStores. HomeStores are independently owned and operated. See store for complete details. Expires 04/06/09.
%
%
matching ottoman select accessories select mattresses
with the purchase of select sectionals or 5 pc living rooms
with the purchase of $1500 or more
Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Valid only at participating Ashley HomeStores. HomeStores Valid only at participating Ashley HomeStores. HomeStores Valid only at participating Ashley HomeStores. HomeStores are independently owned and operated. See store for are independently owned and operated. See store for are independently owned and operated. See store for complete details. Expires 04/06/09. complete details. Expires 04/06/09. complete details. Expires 04/06/09.
NO down payment, NO payments same as cash 'til April 2010* 23
State Rt 224 Tiffin Avenue
Cable Rd
Eastown Rd
State Rt 236
23
Diller Road
Meijer
475 p Air
Lima Mall
State Road 309
ay hw Hig ort
AMERICAS’ 75
475
75
7450 Timberstone Dr (Behind Wal-Mart) Findlay ı 419•423•2323
3223 Elida Rd (Across from Meijer) Lima ı 419•331•3131
Hours: Mon-Fri: 10am-8pm • Sat: 10am-6pm • Sun: 12-5pm
1520 Spring Meadows Dr. Toledo ı 419•868•5600 Hours: Mon-Sat: 10am-9pm Sun: 12-6pm
Looking for a NEW CAREER? Ashley Furniture HomeStores
are always looking for great people, apply within.
*On approved credit. Minimum purchase of $1000 required. Financing provided by CitiFinancial Retail Services. Finance Charges will accrue on the purchase from the beginning of the credit promotional period, but no minimum payments will be due during the credit promotional period. However, if you pay the purchase price in full by the expiration date of the credit promotional period, all of the accrued Finance Charges will be waived and no Finance Charges will be assessed on the purchase. Otherwise, all of the accrued Finance Charges will be assessed. Credit promotional period may be terminated if you default under your account agreement. SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. Some pieces and fabric prints may vary by region. Selection may vary by store. Although every precaution is taken, errors in price and/or speci cation may occur in print. We reserve the right to correct any such errors. Prices valid for a limited time only. Participation times may vary. HomeStores are independently owned and operated. An amount equal to sales taxes and delivery charges must be paid at the time of purchase. Previous purchases excluded. Picture may not represent item exactly as shown, advertised items may not be on display at all locations. ©2009 Ashley HomeStores, Ltd. Expires 04/06/2009.