Toledo Free Press – December 12, 2010 by Toledo Free Press

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Farmer’s Daughter Crystal BOWERSOX on marriage, family and her debut CD.

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DECEMBER 12, 2010

OPINION

DECEMBER 12, 2010

PUBLISHER’S STATEMENT

The $1,000 Challenge

hen Toledo City Council members Michael Ashford, Mike Craig, Rob Ludeman, George Sarantou and Tom Waniewski voted Dec. 7 against giving $10,000 of taxpayer funds to the Toledo Symphony Orchestra’s May trip to Carnegie Hall, they did the financially prudent thing. Officials can twist language to present the money as if it does not come from taxpayers, but they are being disingenuous. Councilmen D. Michael Collins, Steven Steel, Lindsay Webb, Phillip Copeland, Joe McNamara and Adam Martinez voted in favor of giving away the public money. It is likely that a determined Mayor Mike Bell will run this past council again on Dec. 21, with the aim of either getting Wilma Brown (who was absent Dec. 7) to Thomas F. POUNDS vote the proposal through or breaking the tie himself if she were to vote against it. Steel’s comments that “going to the symphony is a recreational activity” is supposed to justify pillaging the Toledo CityParks Fund, to which the city already owes more than $2.6 million. But the money isn’t being used to help average Toledoans go a symphony performance, is it? It is important to restate that the issue here is not supporting the symphony; that should be a given, like supporting the zoo, museum, Mud Hens, Packo’s and “M*A*S*H* re-runs. The point is that the city does not have the money to give, the money is being taken from an account that was not intended for this purpose and that the “repayment” plan consists of allocating casino funds that do not yet exist. But rather than grouse about Bell’s plan to expend his political capital in the name of forcing this unpopular request through Council, let’s turn this around and find a way to help. Toledo Free Press is committing $1,000 toward the symphony’s trip to New York City. We are challenging our small (and not-so-small) business friends to join us in donating the funds to the symphony specifically for its New York concert. If we raise $10,000, and hopefully more, we will respectfully request that the symphony and mayor withdraw their request for public funds. If the mayor and symphony insist on pursuing public funds, the private companies that stepped up will be free to tear their checks in two. We will work as diligently as we can prior to Dec. 21 Council meeting to raise these funds from private sources, to show that while use of the public funds in question are debatable, the community’s support and pride in our symphony is beyond reproach. To discuss joining us in our challenge to help raise private funds for the symphony, please call me at (419) 241-1700, ext. 231. Thomas F. Pounds is president and publisher of Toledo Free Press and Toledo Free Press Star. Contact him at tpounds@toledofreepress.com.

A publication of Toledo Free Press, LLC, Vol. 6, No. 50. Established 2005. EDITORIAL Mary Ann Stearns, Design Editor mastearns@toledofreepress.com James A. Molnar, Lead Designer Brandi Barhite, Associate Editor bbarhite@toledofreepress.com Kristen Rapin-Criswell, Special Sections Editor krapin@toledofreepress.com ADMINISTRATION Pam Burson, Business Manager pburson@toledofreepress.com

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LIGHTING THE FUSE

John Lennon’s garden O

Mom died by degrees during the course of two decades, n Oct. 9, I stood on the curb at W. 72nd Street in New York City, staring at the sidewalk in front but that’s a summation employing hindsight; at the time, I did not realize how steady her decline was, and therefore of the Dakota Building. The day was significant in that it was the exact 70th an- had not worked out the inevitable. niversary of John Lennon’s birth. The place was significant A Day in the Life in that it was the exact spot where Lennon died. I stood across the street from the Dakota, unable to deOn Dec. 9, 1980, riding the bus to Lake Junior High cide how close to the actual spot I wanted to be. Intellectu- School, I noticed that WOHO was playing an unbroken ally, I knew the bloodstains were long ago scrubbed and string of Beatles songs. I wondered aloud what that was faded away, but I regarded the block of ceabout, and someone — I think he was a blond ment with superstitious dread and could not kid named Roger — said, “John Lennon was bring myself to cross the street and approach shot and killed last night.” the ground where Lennon shed his lifeblood. I did not believe him and said so. Instead, I crossed the street to Central Roger, if that was his name, shrugged and Park and Strawberry Fields, the garden went back to his conversation. named for Lennon. The question that flooded my mind The large mosaic in the park, with the then has never been answered to my satsimple yet universe-shaking word “Imagine” isfaction. Why would anyone want to kill embossed on the tiles, was surrounded by John Lennon? He died at 40, a milestone I people paying respect to Lennon’s life and art- Michael S. MILLER passed four years ago. I will forever chase istry, and by people disrespecting the mosaic his legacy, and be grateful he created a uniby acting like fools, pretending to make snow angels on it, verse of music in which I run, shout, dance, hide, cry and posing for photos as they made thumbs-up gestures and gen- love. erally acting like their skulls contained all the brains of the All You Need is Love legions of squirrels that call the park home. I stood on the outer rim of the mosaic, not sure what Recently, I found an online MP3 of someone dialing to do. I crossed through the garden to a stand where an through New York City radio stations the night Lennon apparent survivor of the Summer of Love was selling post- died. The bursts of static squelch through fragments as the cards, photos and odds and ends that pictured Lennon and dial slowly spins: Beatles music, news bulletins, commenhis fellow Beatles. I bought two pins with images of Lennon tary and police reports from the scene by an “Officer Miller.” in New York City, tucked them into my right jacket pocket Listening to the recording transported me to the Rock and stood on Central Park West, trying to decide if I wanted and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland, where I to stand on the ground where Lennon died. once spent an afternoon at an exhibit about Lennon. I marveled at the handwritten lyrics, the guitars, the white piano Nowhere Man where Lennon wrote “Imagine.” At the end of the exhibit My mother and I did not agree on a lot of things, but for was a glass case containing a brown paper grocery bag with as long as I can remember, we united over The Beatles. From its top closed and rolled over, creased with sweat and time. a beat-up collection of vinyl singles to the advent of cassette A plaque noted that the bag contained Lennon’s belongings tapes and through CDs, just about every Beatles album and when he died, including the round eyeglasses that rested on song made their way through our kitchen and living room his nose when he turned to face his assassin. rotation. Mom’s favorite was “The Beatles,” nicknamed the “White Album,” followed closely by “Abbey Road” and “Let Come Together It Be.” Specific songs would be played in endless loops: “It’s funny how one insect can damage so much grain,” “Yellow Submarine,” “Hey Jude,” “Here Comes the Sun.” Elton John sang in his tribute to Lennon, “Empty Garden Mom and I could rarely find the right words to ex- (Hey Hey Johnny).” But standing in Strawberry Fields on change, but we could harmonize on these songs, communi- Lennon’s birthday, I felt, for the first time since Mom died, cating through the words of Lennon and Paul McCartney. the hope and life Lennon represented and the joy he gave I was drawn to Lennon, and read everything I could us all those years ago. about him in books borrowed from the library. Lennon’s I looked up at the sky, felt the Lennon pins in my pocket, one-parent upbringing and modest background struck a hummed “In My Life” to myself and turned my back on the chord, as did his mission to not compromise, to fight for Dakota, choosing the life in gardens and music versus the what he believed in and to use his art to wake and shake death in sidewalk and concrete. people. If art failed to get a reaction, to make people think or feel, what was the point, he asked, and that has been the Michael S. Miller is editor in chief of Toledo Free Press and Tomantra of my life as a writer. ledo Free Press Star. His e-mail is mmiller@toledofreepress.com. Thomas F. Pounds, President/Publisher tpounds@toledofreepress.com

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OPINION

DECEMBER 12, 2010

SHREDDING THE CURTAIN

Waiting for the magic casino fairy

hen the Toledo CityParks Non-Ex- then stopped until 1998, 1999 and 2000. In pendable Trust Fund was created on 2000, the amount owed to the CityPark fund was April 23, 1991, a Toledo casino was 20 $293,020.53. After several more years of no payments, in years in the future. Now, the city is counting on 2003 a transfer of $1.3 million was casino funds to replenish the fund. made from the CityParks fund to The fund was created because in the general fund. Every year since 1991, the city cut its budget for the then, except for 2006, money has Natural Resources Department and been transferred from the CityParks Recreation Division by $1.5 million. fund to the general fund. “Toledo City Council has had a At the Dec. 7 Youth, Parks, long-standing desire to establish a Recreation and Community Relagreater degree of funding stability tions committee meeting, Acting in the Natural Resources DepartBudget Commissioner Jane Boone ment,” was also cited as a reason for Lisa Renee WARD said, “At the end of 2009, the balcreating the fund in 1991. ance of the Toledo CityParks NonThe original amount appropriated was $3,227,730.14. That money came from Expendable Trust Fund was $1,990,454. We estate taxes paid to the City of Toledo after the expect at the end of 2010 the balance will be $1,030,038.30. The balance at the end of 2011 1987 death of Paul Block Jr. The first legislation to take money from will be approximately $61,627.” A spreadsheet obtained by Toledo Free Press the CityParks fund for the general fund was effective Jan. 2, 1992. The legislation stated states from 1991 to Nov. 30, 2010, the total dollar it was because there was a projected gen- amount of interest and principle taken from eral fund deficit in excess of $14 million — the CityParks fund for the “operating fund” is $1,479,333 was transferred to cover the costs $4,879,366.10 — $2,660,340.86 is listed as going from the CityParks fund to recreation operating of recreation programs for 1992. In 1992 and 1994, legislation was passed costs during that same time period. Councilman D. Michael Collins discussed to replenish the fund. Payments were made in 1993, 1994 and 1995 from the general fund, the history of the CityParks fund.

“Over the period of time, administrations have reached into that trust fund and have used it for, I would say, a lending instrument, interestfree. Is that fair, Mr. Herwat?” he asked. Deputy Mayor Steve Herwat said, “Yes.” Collins asked how much of the fund was used for the $3.3 million trust fund budget line item to balance the budget. City Finance Director Patrick McLean said “The $3.3 million to balance the budget was from all trust funds, that is separate and none of the Block Trust Fund [CityPark fund] is a part of that.” But a short time later, McLean said an amended version of the budget shows the $3.3 million is now $4.3 million, which includes about $1 million from the CityParks fund. Collins asked how the administration intended to reimburse the CityParks fund. “Starting in 2012, with the receipt of the casino proceeds, the administration is committed to restore the $3.6 million original balance in the trust,” Herwat said. Councilwoman Lindsay Webb said, “Funding recreation out of the Block money is unsustainable and the time has come to have a broader discussion about this community’s belief that recreation, parks, arts and culture are something that we value. “I’m willing to support this, this year, but we

need to look at how we fund recreation in the long term, this year,” she said. During the Dec. 7 City Council meeting that took place after the committee meeting, Councilman Adam Martinez said, “So this is not taxpayer money, per se.” “No, this is not taxpayer money, this is money that was collected under the estate tax laws of the state of Ohio,” Herwat said. That could be questioned, since taxpayer dollars from the general fund were used to pay back the CityParks fund from which the interest and principle is now being taken. It may be understandable that the city raided a trust fund that it did not have to pay interest on, but my family lives close to Highland Park, where area residents have been told for years that there was no money to fix its pools or the park. It’s clear there was money, but different priorities existed during present and past administrations. I’m not confident in the magic casino fairy delivering funds back to the CityParks fund nor confident that once it’s returned, it won’t just be used as interest free “loan” money again. Toledo Free Press contributor Lisa Renee Ward operates the political blog GlassCityJungle.com. E-mail her at letters@toledofreepress.com.

DECEMBER 12, 2010

Opinion

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COMMUNITY

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PEOPLE

DECEMBER 12, 2010

By Kristen Rapin-Criswell TOLEDO FREE PRESS SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR krapin@toledofreepress.com

The “American Idols Live! Tour” is over, but Elliston native Crystal Bowersox has not slowed down. The 25-year-old has performed on behalf of several causes, was married, recorded her debut CD, “Farmer’s Daughter,” and moved into a new home. “It’s been a little crazy. I’ve been very busy,” Bowersox said in a phone interview with Toledo Free Press. On Dec. 14, “Farmer’s Daughter” hits shelves across the country. The album is a snapshot of the “American Idol” runner-up’s life. “This is my diary. My life. My thoughts about the world, love and family,” Bowersox said. Bowersox, who before signing with Jive Records, said she was holding out for a deal that would allow her to record her original music, wrote or cowrote 10 of the album’s 12 songs. Originally the album’s first single was slated as “Hold On,” written by former “Idol” judge Kara DioGuardi and Nickelback singer Chad Kroeger, but later Bowersox made the decision to change it to the title track. “I wanted my first single to say, ‘Here I am. This is my story. You might not want to hear this, but it’s the truth,’” she said. “While ‘Hold On’ is a good song, [‘Farmer’s Daughter’] represented me more than it did.” The song “Farmer’s Daughter” was written by Bowersox pre- “Idol.” It has a darker theme than the rest of the album, dealing with the issue of child abuse. The song is an autobiographical account of the physical abuse Bowersox suffered at the hands of her mother, but Bowersox is quick to say her mother isn’t a bad person and the pair share a relationship today. “My mom had it tough growing up, too. She was a single mom with three kids and she was pretty broke and couldn’t afford child care. She self-medicated and it turned to darker things,” Bowersox said. “Like any parent, she did the best she could. ‘Farmer’s Daughter’ was written in a moment of anger and is a pretty brutal song. She isn’t a big fan of it. But it’s important to know my mom loves her grandson and her daughter.” In addition to “Farmer’s Daughter,” many of the album’s other songs were written pre- “Idol,” Bowersox said. “Holy Toledo,” which was the first original song by a contestant featured during an “American Idol” season, is included on the album. ■ BOWERSOX CONTINUES ON A7

PHOTO BY HARPER SMITH/JIVE RECORDS. TOLEDO FREE PRESS COVER ILLUSTRATION BY DUSTIN HOSTETLER

‘Farmer’s Daughter’ CD shares Bowersox’s life story

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ELLISTON NATIVE CRYSTAL BOWERSOX WAS THE 2010 “AMERICAN IDOL” RUNNER-UP. HER DEBUT CD WILL BE RELEASED DEC. 14.

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DECEMBER 12, 2010 ■ BOWERSOX CONTINUED FROM A6 “‘Holy Toledo,’ the demo version, was just me and Frankie May. We did what we could for it just being the two of us,” she said. “Having access to the studio and studio band allowed all the things that have been in my head all these years to come alive. ‘Holy Toledo,’ I feel like it’s epic. I hope when people hear it they can retain the hope they had when someone in their home-town was doing well.” Many of the other pre- “Idol” songs were written for Bowersox’s new husband Brian Walker, she said. “Kiss Ya” was written when Bowersox first had a crush on Walker and “Speak Now” was written for him right before her return to Northwest Ohio in 2009. “I wrote a lot of songs for him and he wrote a lot of songs for me. Our songs were our love letters,” she said. The pair performs a duet, “Mason,” on the album. “He wrote ‘Mason’ before we got together, but the bridge originally wasn’t in the song,” Bowersox said. “We went into the studio, toyed around and made it into what it is now.” Other songs featured on the album are a cover of Buffalo Springfield’s “For What it’s Worth,” and “Arlene,” written for the “American Idol” tour bus driver, Bowersox said. In addition to recording music, Bowersox has used her new fame to promote causes. Bowersox participated in the 12th annual Power to the Peaceful Festival in San Francisco and shared the stage with Melissa Etheridge at Pinktober to promote breast cancer awareness. Most recently, Bowersox opened for The Doobie Brothers at Concert for Kids, which benefits Toys for Tots. “Everything I did was for things that were important to me or people I love,” she said. “The [Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund] is a personal thing of mine because I have diabetes. Pinktober — Melissa asked me to play with

her. She’s been nothing but kind to me, a very good mentor and I consider her to be a good friend.” In October, Bowersox shared her personal story with the public when speaking out against bullying. She wrote an essay about being bullied as a kid and appeared on “Anderson Cooper 360” to talk about the issue. “It’s a touchy subject and I was really frightened to talk about it. I had to write the essay for CNN when my family was asleep because it was something really emotional for me,” Bowersox said. “Too many people check out way too soon and that should not happen. Ever.” Despite the many changes during the past year, Bowersox considers herself to be the same person she’s always been and considers herself a true rags-to-riches story. “Not rich financially, but rich as in I no longer have to worry about things I used to,” she said. “I don’t have to eat out of the garbage, I don’t have to beg for insulin or baby formula. It’s an amazing feeling to know my son isn’t going to have that life,” she said.

Win ‘Farmer’s Daughter’ Culture Clash Records and Toledo Free Press are offering a chance to win a free copy of Crystal Bowersox’s debut CD, “Farmer’s Daughter.” Email “Crystal” to letters@toledofree press.com by noon Dec. 14 to enter. Culture Clash Records, 4020 Secor Road, is hosting a release event for the CD from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 14. According to Culture Clash Records owner Pat O’Connor, the record store will sell the CD for $9.97. Representatives from Culture Clash will also visit Papa’s Tavern to sell CDs and listen to one of Bowersox’s mentors, Ron Rasberry. Individuals who purchase a CD will receive a free promotional poster of Bowersox. For more information, call Culture Clash Records at (419) 536-5683.

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CD REVIEW

Crystal rocks on ‘Farmer’s Daughter’ By Vicki L. Kroll TOLEDO FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER vkroll@toledofreepress.com

With the opening guitar riffs and pounding drumss of “Ridin With the Radio,” which kicks off Crystal Bowersox’s “Farmer’s Daughter,” it’s clear you’d better bucklee up because the singer-songwriter is going to floor it. She sings: Whatever happened to good ol’ rock ‘n’ roll Whatever became of rhythm, blues and soul I do what it takes now cause I just want to make your mind feel good The s*** that they play now, oh it just don’t feel like it should So open your heart, open your mind Turn down the hate, turn up the kind Give me some shelter, show me some love ... MamaSox will feel lots of love with her solid debut produced by David Bendeth, who has worked with Paramore and Breaking Benjamin. The “American Idol” runner-up wrote or co-wrote 10 of the 12 songs on the disc. She includes one cover, Buffalo Springfield’s “For What It’s Worth.” Her strong, heartfelt voice carries the 1967 classic written by Stephen Stills. (Coincidentally, the cover of her disc is reminiscent of Springfield alum Stills sitting on a porch with Graham Nash and David Crosby for the trio’s 1969 debut.) The Elliston native also sings “Hold On,” a slower, radio-friendly song written by Nickelback’s Chad Kroeger and former “Idol” judge Kara DioGuardi. Back behind the wheel, Bowersox surprisingly turns down pop street with the upbeat “Lonely Won’t Come Around,” which could receive lots of airplay. The 25-year-old slows it down and changes the mood on “Farmer’s Daughter,” which details growing up with child abuse and “mommy dear.” And “Holy Toledo,” a reflective song that was played on local radio and featured on “American Idol,” feels fuller with drums and electric guitar. Bowersox heads out into the country with “Mine All Mine,” a sweet, simple track that starts with her singing over an acoustic guitar:

Baby, don’t b don’t d ’ buy b me flowers, d ’ bbuy me sweets Don’t get me useless little things, they don’t make me complete I don’t want your money, honey, Lord it’s kind of funny I just need your time And to know that your sweet love is mine all mine Mine all mine, baby, are you mine all mine? In the song, complete with honky-tonk piano, she drops a Johnny Cash tribute: “Boy, cause I am your fool, for you I’d walk the line.” Bowersox shifts gears effortlessly, playing blistering rock tracks “Kiss Ya” and “On the Run,” before easing off the accelerator and cruising into a storytelling zone with “Arlene”: Cause Mama and Daddy taught me good Gotta work hard like a woman should I just deal with the hand I’m dealt If you want it done right, Arlene, you’ve got to do it yourself The only time Bowersox stalls is with “Mason,” which she wrote with her husband, Brian Walker. While the track pays tribute to her blue-collar roots, it’s hard to overlook the corny lyrics that include the chorus: “I want to be your mason, baby/ I want to build a life with you.” With “Farmer’s Daughter,” it’s clear Bowersox is road-tested and ready to roll.

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DECEMBER 12, 2010

PHILANTHROPY

‘Absolutely incredible’: United Way surpasses campaign goal By Kristen Rapin-Criswell

Toledo Free Press Special Sections Editor krapin@toledofreepress.com

The Toledo-area community helped United Way of Greater Toledo surpass its 2010 campaign goal of $13.3 million, raising a total of $13,409,320. “I would say without exception we had a very enthusiastic community that understood how important the work is that United SPEYER Way is doing and how important it is to support that work,” said Sharon Speyer, campaign chairwoman and regional president of Huntington National Bank. “These camKITSON paign results are absolutely incredible,” said Bill Kitson, president and CEO of United Way. This year the community understood the need, but also wanted to know how they could make an impact and help, he added. “We’re definitely to the point now where everyone knows someone who is impacted by the economic situation in our community. That creates an understanding about trying to help your neighbor and reach out a hand to them,” Kitson said. “I personally believe the campaign this year was so successful because people know someone who is

going to get help from their gift and that’s important.” Due to one-time grants and stimulus funding in 2009, United Way needed to raise more than $600,000 in new funds. The community met that need with more than a 6 percent increase in giving in 2010, Speyer said. “When you’re dealing with a community that continues to have doubledigit unemployment and increases its giving by 6 percent, I think it is a home run,” she said. “The community deserves accolades for that.” Nearly half of the workplaces that participated in the campaign increased their giving, said Kim Sidwell, senior vice president of resource development at United Way. “There was optimism this year. Companies were more excited about the campaigns they were running. There was more enthusiasm and creativity put into the campaign,” she said. Some different fundraising strategies utilized by businesses were raffles for parking spaces and jeans days, Sidwell said. In addition, Owens Corning hosted an internal “American Idol” fundraiser where people paid to vote. Companies that showed an increase in giving include The Lathrop Co. which had 100 percent of its employees participate in the campaign; Jones-Hamilton Company which increased its campaign for the 14 consecutive year; and Lucas Metropolitan Housing Authority, which doubled what it raised in 2009. This year’s campaign also included an education challenge grant from BPHusky Refining that was met quickly because people understand the value of education, Kitson said. Gifts given

to United Way’s education initiative were matched dollar for dollar by BPHusky Refining up to $25,000. “The conversation changed from a Band-Aid approach of let’s try and help people get through tomorrow, to conversations about the broader is-

sues the community is facing,” Kitson said. “Like in our education initiative. Kids need to graduate from school if they’re ever going to get great jobs and those jobs are going to produce great families. That’s a long-term strategy people understand.”

Money raised during the campaign will go toward programs that support United Way’s Agenda for Change, which includes a focus on education, income and health. For more information, visit the website www.unitedwaytoledo.org.

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ENERGY

Environmental groups try to stop Davis-Besse By Caitlin McGlade TOLEDO FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER news@toledofreepress.com

Environmental groups are gearing up to take down a nearby nuclear power plant’s request for a 20-year operating license extension. FirstEnergy’s Davis-Besse, which opened in the 1970s, is waiting for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to approve its request — a decision that could take anywhere between 22 and 30 months. The plant would otherwise close in 2017. Kevin Kamps of Beyond Nuclear and other environmentalists are determined to stop the process. The groups will host a public hearing from noon to 3 p.m. Dec. 18 at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 2272 Collingwood Blvd. “We talk about regulation by guardian angel,” Kamps said. “It is sheer luck that something major hasn’t taken place there.” Kamps and others are racing to compile their argument by the Dec. 24 deadline, in hopes of securing an official NRC hearing. Although the commission has granted numerous hearings, the agency has never declined a license request based on information from the hearings, said Scott Burnell, spokesperson for the NRC. Sometimes groups will prompt the need to find more information. But the companies have always pulled together to provide sufficient research to back their request, Burnell added. Anita Rios, a leader of the Ohio Green Party, said slim odds will not stop her fight against the plant. “What dictates you is what is in your heart,” Rios said. “If you can see the right thing to do, then shame on you if you don’t do it.

What I have to do doesn’t change — the odds don’t matter.” Despite a history of mishaps, the NRC has deemed the plant safe since 2005. “It is reasonable to say that Davis-Besse has had a couple of the more significant safety episodes among plants in the United States,” Burnell said. “That being said, the overall inspection and oversight process the NRC has in place shows us that at this point, Davis-Besse is operating safely and has been doing so since 2005.” The plant shut down in 2002 after multiple cracks in nozzles leaked coolant water onto the reactor vessel head. Boric acid left by the evaporated water eventually ate away a football-size chunk of the carbon steel. That steel is one of the barriers between people and radiation, said Viktoria Mitlyng, spokesperson for the commission’s Midwest region. The commission was unaware of the safety hazards because the plant told the NRC that the area was being cleaned, when no one was actually cleaning it, Mitlyng said. “There’s no disagreement that the head corrosion was the most significant challenge to safety that we have seen since Three Mile Island,” Burnell said. The plant shut down for a couple of years and reopened with a new vessel head. But cracks in the new installment were found during a routine checkup. Davis-Besse plans to install new, more crack-resistant equipment in 2011. Most other plants in the U.S. have installed the more crack resistant material already, Burnell said. After the plant reopened, the commission stationed three local inspectors rather than the normal two and mandated annual independent safety inspections for the next five years, Mitlyng said.

Rios said she wants the commission to turn FirstEnergy down so it doesn’t set a precedent of allowing bad safety behavior to continue. She added that the commission has not taken responsibility for its “weak oversight.” Nuclear power has its benefits, but not without drawbacks, said David Lochbaum, director of the Nuclear Safety Project with the Union of Concerned Scientists. The union is neither for nor against nuclear power, but rather analyzes its benefits and drawbacks. Nuclear power emits no greenhouse gases and is more efficient than using coal or oil, he said. “But those benefits aren’t free,” Lochbaum said. The early 2000s incident was one of many problems that could have ended in disaster, one that also caused the plant to shut down in the late 1980s, Lochbaum said. The people working at Davis-Besse now are not the same people involved in the safety breaches, said Todd Schneider, a spokesperson for FirstEnergy. “The plant has come a long way. We worked very hard at changing the culture there to make sure that operating the plant safely is first,” Schneider said. The plant employs 700 full-time workers and generates enough energy to provide 40 percent of electrical needs for Northwest Ohio. The potential hazards that come with nuclear power seem too hefty for some. The groups hosting the hearing plan to record the event and send it to the commission. “I don’t want to be a pessimist,” Rios said. “This would be worst-case scenario, but if something were to happen it would open a whole Pandora’s Box of illness, of destruction of property, of any number of things.”

Profile of Excellence: Dan Silvers Owens Community College Alumnus Dan Silvers grew up in Toledo, T Ohio. He graduated from Scho a small local school. He knew by the Emmanuel Baptist School, beginning of his senior year that he wanted to attend Owens it had a small, community feel. Community College because be He began at Owens in 1996 and pursued a degree in law enforcement. It soon became apparent that this wasn’t the be perfect career choice for him. He transferred into the cho marketing program and ultimately transferred to the pr business program. p As he built bu relationships with his professors and their passion for the field, he found that it saw thei was the perfect fit for him. He had found his passion. own pa “I had the opportunity, without the cost, to explore different careers and find what I exp wanted want in a career,” said Silvers. He a also liked the fact that he could take gene general education classes with a small group of st students so he could get the personal attention he needed to excel. Silvers atte grad graduated in 1999 with an associate of Dan Silvers Clie Executive, Hylant Group Client 1999 Graduate 199

Come Join The Fun Join the Alumni Association today and experience cultural events, community service, legacy scholarship opportunities and more.

business administration and transferred to the University of Toledo.

Reconnect with Owens online at www.owens.edu/alumni.

“Being at Owens helped me to get comfortable in a college setting and then successfully transfer to a larger university,” said Silvers.

Join the Alumni Association

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in marketing and a concentration in sales, he began his ﬁrst job in sales at a local company that handled payroll functions for area businesses. Eventually, Silvers found his niche when he began working in commercial sales in the insurance industry. Now, he works at Hylant Group as a Client Executive to mid-sized to large companies. “For me, the commercial insurance industry is very relationship based. My clients count on me in difﬁcult times and I take that responsibility very seriously,” said Silvers. Silvers has found his niche and looks forward to a long career. He loves working for a local company that is involved in the community and fosters relationships with other companies.

“I had the opportunity, without the cost, to explore different careers.”

The Alumni Association is gearing up for its annual membership drive. Beneﬁts include membership at the Student Health and Activities Center, job search services and more. Visit www.owens.edu/ alumni to sign up today.

For a complete calendar of events, please call Laura Moore at (567) 661-7410, e-mail alumni@owens.edu or go to www.owens.edu and click the Alumni and Donors link.

community

A10 n Toledo Free Press

DECEMBER 12, 2010

MIssing brothers

Morenci brothers described as happy, helpful By Kristen Rapin-Criswell and Caitlin McGlade Toledo Free Press Staff Writers news@toledofreepress.com

MORENCI — For a town of fewer than 2,400 people, three missing boys are a personal affair. The downtown streets of Morenci bore a raw, quiet hush and lay vacant Dec. 2 except for hooded figures wrapped in neon vests treading to and from the fire station and the Morenci Bible Fellowship. Tragedy strained their faces, but hope followed hundreds through miles of frigid searches in surrounding fields, forests and small towns as they looked for three missing boys: Andrew, Alexander and Tanner Skelton. Groups gathered in the fire station and church for breaks between threemile-long hunts for the children who were reported missing Nov. 26. Some filled their plates with food donated from area businesses — roasted chicken, pasta, potatoes or doughnuts — and ate in silence. Others shared anecdotes about the

young boys and the Skelton family. “This isn’t a big-city tragedy, this is a small town and those boys aren’t just pictures on a paper, the people here know these boys,” said Kevin Lehr, a youth pastor from the West Rome Baptist Church in Manitou Beach, Mich. Lehr was among hundreds of volunteers who traveled to Morenci to help search — with some coming from as far as Tennessee and West Virginia. Many other volunteers were locals who know the boys or their family. K.C. Carter, a retired music teacher, taught 9-year-old Andrew in class as a kindergartner. Last week, she was stomping across the frozen ground searching for a sign of him. Firefighters leading the search crews told Carter to look for toys, clothes and loose dirt patterns — anything suspicious in the woods. She found a child’s swimming pool, but to her relief, nothing was beneath it. By Dec. 2, Carter decided to sign up volunteers rather than search. “I do not want to be the one to find them,” Carter said. “I do not want to see little Andrew like that. I do not

want to see a little hand. I hope they’re not going to be found like that. I hope that they’re alive and they’re going to be found.” The boys’ father, John Skelton, is being held on a kidnapping charge in the Lucas County Jail. On Dec. 8, Skelton reportedly told his parents that the boys are alive but did not reveal their location.

Andrew

Andrew was always eager to learn, sing and play games. His mother, Tanya, who Carter worked with, was equally helpful. Whenever anything needed done at school, she would reach ANDREW out, Carter said. At a Dec. 2 news conference, Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks shared a personal story about Andrew. “I was at their house on one occasion, and Andrew came out and he

saw me and he said, ‘Hey, Chief! How you doing?’ I said, ‘I’m good. How are you?’ He said, ‘Just a minute.’ And he ran back in the house, and he came back out and he had one of these toy police vests and cap, and he looks at me and says, ‘I’m going to be a police officer like you someday,’” Weeks said. Perhaps in another galaxy, he would aspire to be a Jedi. Andrew is into all things “Star Wars,” said Mary Fisher, the dean of students at Morenci Elementary School. His other love is country music singer Darius Rucker, she added. “He’s a great kid. Happy. Always gets along with his friends,” Fisher said. The brothers, who are two years apart in age — Andrew, 9, Alex, 7, and Tanner, 5 — are very close, said Janet Rollins, Tanner’s developmental kindergarten teacher.

Alex

Every day, Alex walked Tanner to his classroom, helped him take off his jacket and unload his backpack. The boys would then hug and say, ‘see you

after school,’ Rollins said. Alex would also make sure his younger brother made it to the office to take his inhaler after lunch. Alex, who ALEX is in a literacy class with Rollins four days a week, is always eager to be the first to read. He also loves camping and fishing, a subject he writes about in his school journal, Fisher said. “[Alex] ends everything in the journal with ‘It was fun,’” she said. Tanner also loves camping, but spoke often about four-wheeling as well, Rollins said.

Tanner

Rollins said Tanner played and shared with everyone, both boys and girls. The bond with his classmates is evident in a little green book held together by plastic binding. n MISSING CONTINUES ON A11

community

DECEMBER 12, 2010 n MISSING CONTINUED FROM A10 Rollins had the kids doodle pictures of Tanner and themselves playing, along with a sentence about what they want to do when Tanner comes back. “Tanner is my friend. We play outside,” one states. “I love Tanner and he loves me,” reads another, below two big green stick-people with smiley faces.

Tanner does a lot of drawing himself — his specialty is a dinosaur, Rollins said. He often asked for his pictures to be displayed on the bulletin board.

TANNER

For Halloween this year, unlike her other male students wearing Superman or Spider-Man costumes, Tanner was Bob the Builder, Rollins said. The 14 children in Tanner’s developmental kindergarten class haven’t been asking a lot of questions about the search, but will be in the middle of an activity and say, “I really miss Tanner,” Rollins said.

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“They don’t talk about it a lot, other than saying they really miss Tanner,” Rollins said. “But, they’re quieter and need a lot more hugs right now.” To help the younger children cope, Rollins led a group discussion with the children sharing what they like about Tanner. “I started the sharing session by saying I like to watch Tanner run,” Rollins said. “He’ll ask me to watch him run outside at recess, but you have to say ‘flash’ then he’ll run really fast. Pretty soon all my boys will be running back and forth for me.” Older students have taken the news differently. Some have drawn pictures with RIP signs scribbled onto the paper, Fisher said. “We have a collection of pictures to take over to Tanya,” she said. “It’s processing for the children. We had some pictures [Tanya] will never get because some kids have already processed this

n A11

all the way — the child’s missing and the kids have thought maybe they’re already dead. We just had the loss of 14-year-old [Collin Fletcher] six or seven weeks ago and that’s still fresh in everyone’s minds.” The school has extra counselors on hand as well as the Lenawee County Crisis Response Team if the students need to talk, Fisher said. The boys were last seen with their father, John Skelton. He is being held on a $3 million bond in the Lucas County Jail for a kidnapping charge related to the boys’ disappearance. Skelton had previously been at a mental health facility where he stayed after attempting suicide. Volunteer searches concluded Dec. 3, while police and fire efforts will continue, Meeks has announced. “The one thing that this has done is brought out the best of humanity in the worst of times,” Carter said.

FUNDRAISER

‘Unity in Community’ to benefit local families

By Caitlin McGlade

Toledo Free Press Staff Writer news@toledofreepress.com

Cathy Lira didn’t know how she would manage to fill out the Christmas tree this year. Her illnesses have kept her from working since last winter and she spends most of her time taking care of her two developmentally disabled children: Reyes, 13 and Erica, 16. Lira’s family is one of the eight selected for an upcoming benefit hosted by the events listing website Toledosnightout.com. The event, “Unity in Community,” will take place at Toledo’s Main Street Bar and Grill from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Dec. 18. The benefit could change everything for Lira’s family this season. “It would have been a lot of nothing,” Lira said. “The kids wouldn’t have had anything for Christmas.” Now, her children get a cut of a large check and a 6 a.m. trip to the Monroe Street Toys ‘R’ Us to pick out toys. Toledosnightout.com is collecting online donations, which is just the beginning of money the group expects to collect, said Stephanie Ruben, the website’s marketing director. Tickets for the benefit cost $10. The Facebook event has more than 40 confirmed guests and about 140 who might attend. The event will include karaoke and live bands. Door prizes and free appetizers will also be up for grabs, according to the website.

Toledosnightout.com is a new site that features information about night life and events in the area. Diane Frazee, United Way of Greater Toledo’s director of Family Information Network of Northwest Ohio, said she was sent a list of families who needed help this season. When Ruben contacted her looking for families who have “hardship,” Frazee knew exactly what to do. The families are not selected based on income level, however most have financial struggles because of endless medical bills and the “hidden costs that people don’t think about,” Frazee said. There is no age limit — one of those selected is 40 years old. Frazee has a 33-year-old daughter named Jamie who has a condition called cri de chat, or “cry of the cat,” an illness that weakens motor skills and other functions. Jamie is psychologically 2 years old, Frazee said. Frazee knows how difficult it is to find people who want to help adults around the holidays because many often think first of young children. “We have people with disabilities who are chronologically over the age of 12 but psychologically they are much younger,” Frazee said. Ruben said she also plans to give gifts to the guardians. “If you’re fortunate enough to help, let us come together to help these families,” she said.

community

A12 n Toledo Free Press

DECEMBER 12, 2010

STORMING BACK

Editor’s note: Toledo Free Press will follow the Blank family of Millbury for the next year as they rebuild their lives after a June 5 tornado destroyed their Main Street home. By Brandi Barhite Toledo Free Press Associate Editor bbarhite@toledofreepress.com

The Blanks will be moving into their new house Dec. 17. For Ed, it couldn’t come soon enough. “I have been counting the seconds and minutes,” he said. Usually, Ed is the optimistic one, but in the past month or so, the familial roles have been reversed. “I have been going through a little bit of depression wanting to get back to the house,” he said. Ed said life has been busy since the June 5 tornado destroyed their Millbury home. At first, they lived with family friends in Perrysburg Township and then moved into a friend’s empty condo in Oregon. If they aren’t running son Casey to and from the temporary Lake High School in Northwood, they are filling out

insurance paperwork or picking towel bars and comparing paint swatches. “It has been a long six and a half months and yeah, it seems like it did go quickly; everyone has told me it seems like has gone quickly,” Ed said. “Fortunately, we have been involved with a lot of different things, but we BLANK are kind of exhausted.” Their contractor, Mark Rigg of Rigg Builders, said he is glad the Blanks will be home for Christmas. “If you have a house that is getting that close and you can get them in for Christmas, you try to do that,” Rigg said. “The timeline worked out that it would be finished around Christmas, but we stepped it up to make sure it happened.” Rigg said the painting and plumbing are wrapping up, while the appliances are being installed. Soon, the cleaning crew will come in and make sure the carpet is pristine and the rest of the house is ready to go. In addition, he is preparing for the final plumbing, heating, electrical and

overall inspections. “We generally meet our deadlines. We have some terrific subs and the guys work hard to meet all the goals,” Rigg said. Ed said he has already moved his storage unit items into the attic at the new house. He has also moved most of the items FAMILY: from the condo’s attic. “I have my garage at the new house completely full of small things that we bought so far,” Ed said. The house will include a new family portrait that was taken at Pearson Park. The family lost almost everything in the tornado, including photos that were displayed throughout the house. “We have some big pictures made up and some frames we have purchased to start to decorate the house with some new family portraits so it feels more like home,” he said. The furniture — from Ashley Furniture, Samsen and JCPenney —will all be delivered on move-in day. In addition, the surround sound will be installed, and the cable installers are

STORMING

back

TOLEDO FREE PRESS PHOTO BY charlie longton

Blank family prepares to move into new home Dec. 17

Mark Rigg, left, and Douglas Vermett of Rigg Builders.

coming the day before. “We are getting there and I have had plenty of volunteers from church and friends to help,” Ed said. “We will have everything out of the condo by Saturday the 18th. We would like to do as much as we can

to get things in place and in order in the new house.” Once they are in, the Blanks can envision their ideal evening. “We are looking forward to relaxing and being able to kick our feet up and cook a dinner,” Ed said.

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DECEMBER 12, 2010

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n A13

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BIG BAND MUSIC

By Sarah Ottney

Toledo Free Press Staff Writer news@toledofreepress.com

The Johnny Knorr Orchestra will bring its milestone 50th anniversary year to a close with a sneak-peek preview of a new documentary, “Satin Dolls: The Johnny Knorr Story,” at its 26th annual New Year’s Eve gala. The gala is set for 6:30 p.m. Dec. 31 at the Stranahan Great Hall, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. A dinner buffet by Michael’s Gourmet Catering will begin at 7 p.m. followed by live bigband music, dancing, door prizes, cash bar and a midnight champagne toast to ring in the New Year. Breakfast pastries will follow at 12:15 a.m. Musical selections will include Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin, The Ink Spots — and of course “Auld Lang Syne,” said Music Director Jerry Knorr, son of the group’s founder. Joel Zmuda will join longtime vocalist Gay Hobbs as a second singer. Ragtime Rick and Dennis Williams from 1230 AM WCWA radio will serve as masters of ceremonies and Milo and Deborah Felger, professional dancers from Fort Wayne, Ind., will perform an Argentine tango as an exhibition, Knorr said. Tickets are $55 and must be reserved by Dec. 28. “This is a festive gala,” Knorr said. “It’s a big party and how people used to celebrate New Year’s for a long time. There will be a wide variety of music and a lot of people will be dancing. Many there will just enjoy listening.” Knorr said he has watched “Satin Dolls,” made by American Retrospects of Toledo, and “it’s a wonderful work.” n KNORR CONTINUES ON A15

photo courtesy michael Drew shaw

Documentary marks 50 years of Johnny Knorr Orchestra

Michael Drew Shaw, left, is Co-founder of American Retrospects, the company that filmed a documentary about band leader Johnny Knorr.

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Holiday Heart Health As the days get shorter, the weather gets colder and holiday treats find their way into our homes and workplaces, the spirit of the season may take attention away from maintaining our heart health. Remember that there are many ways to take control of your health this season. 1. Limit empty calories. Holiday gatherings mean holiday food and drinks. Remember to set limits for yourself. Also remember to ask co-workers to keep the extra treats at home. Encourage healthy snacks as an alternative to highsugar and high-calorie ones. 2. Get moving. Many people avoid the cold, but everyone still needs to fit physical activity into their daily routines. The American Heart Association recommends active-play video games to help get you off the couch and moving with the whole family. Try your hand at electronic bowling or tennis this season.

■ KNORR CONTINUED FROM A14 The documentary will make its television debut next spring on PBS, stations and times to be announced, but advanced copies will be available for sale at the gala. The film takes a nostalgic look at the big-band era and the female vocalists, called “satin dolls,” who were often as popular as the bands themselves, said Michael Drew Shaw, co-founder of American Retrospects. Shaw said the documentary idea came to him during lunch with Johnny Knorr. At one time, just about every town in America had a ballroom, which were the center of American social life from the 1930s to the early 1950s, Shaw said. Both he and Jerry Knorr grew up with their parents’ stories of “magical” nights at the Trianon in Toledo, which appears in the film. “It was the place to be,” Knorr said. “They’d pay a nickel to dance and they would literally bring a rope across the floor at the end of the dance and if you wanted to participate in the next dance, you’d have to pay another nickel. That’s a totally foreign concept today.”

However, both men said big-band music and ballroom dancing are experiencing a resurgence thanks to shows like “Dancing with the Stars” and singers like Michael Buble, Norah Jones and Harry Connick Jr. rerecording hit songs of the past. While the gala has attracted an older crowd for years, Shaw said lately he has noticed more couples in their 30s and 40s. “I would say probably 15 to 20 percent of the total crowd was this younger audience and that was a first,” Shaw said. “They always had a few younger people, but this past year it really seemed to grow quite a bit. So obviously we‘re hoping that trend continues. “It’s really quite a sight to see. People in their late 70s, early 80s, dancing alongside 30-year-olds and having such a great time,” Shaw said. “It sort of bridges an age gap. There’s a common love there for the music and dancing and that’s just a lot of fun to watch.” Knorr said it’s hard to believe the Johnny Knorr Orchestra, based out of Sylvania’s Centennial Terrace, has been around 50 years. “You never have that in mind;

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you just had the next event you were looking forward to and just kept on going,” Knorr said. “All of a sudden, you realize, ‘Jeez, 50 years’ and start looking around ... at how many have been operating for 50 years and there’s not that many really.” Although many members have been with the band more than 20 years, Knorr is the last original member. Now 69, he was just finishing high school when his father formed the group in 1960. Johnny, who’s 89 and plans to atJERRY KNORR tend the gala if he’s feeling well enough, played with the orchestra until last year, when health issues forced him to retire. Knorr said it was a “privilege and honor” to play for the likes of Bob Hope — “at Stranahan Theatre, a 45-piece orchestra for a private party, just a memorable evening” — Bobby Vinton, the Four Aces and

■ A15

Bob Crosby. But, he said, smaller funny moments are among his favorite memories — like the time, long before wireless microphones, when singer Helen O’Connell started walking into the crowd. “She was getting to the end of the cord and I saw what was happening,” Knorr said, laughing. “The cord happened to go right by me where the sound system was, so I put my foot on the cord so she wouldn’t pull it out. Well, all she could see was my foot on the cord. So she kept saying ‘You, young guy there, get your foot off the cord.’” But mostly Knorr is just happy to make other people happy. “We’ve had a lot of fun through all the years,” Knorr said. “But I guess maybe the thing we enjoyed most is when you see that special smile on somebody’s face, that you’ve brought back a fond memory of something to them. That means something.” For gala tickets or more information, visit www.johnnyknorr.com or contact Jerry at (419) 697-7612. Toledo Free Press is a media sponsor partner for this event.

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GUEST COLUMN

DECEMBER 12, 2010

Getting your affairs in order

f we had a crystal ball and could see the future, we would not need to prepare for end-of-life decisions. James was 62 years old when a stroke made it impossible for him to communicate with his family. Neither his wife nor children knew anything about his financial or medical information. James had always taken care of things himself and left no written directives in his behalf. Besides having to locate important documents, the family was left to make their own decisions about James’ long-term care. The National Institute on Aging gives three simple, but important steps to putting your affairs in order: ■ “Put your important papers and copies of legal documents in one place. You could set up a file, put everything in a desk or dresser drawer, or just list the information and location of papers in a notebook. If your papers are in a bank safe deposit box, keep copies in a file at home. Check each year to see if there’s anything new to add. ■ Tell a trusted family member or friend where you put all your important papers. You don’t need to tell this friend or family member about your personal affairs, but someone should know where you keep your papers in case of emergency. If you don’t have a relative or friend you trust, ask a lawyer to help. ■ Give consent in advance for your doctor or lawyer to talk with your caregiver as needed. There may

be questions about your care, a bill or a health insurance claim. Without your consent, your caregiver may not be able to get needed information. You can give your OK in advance to Medicare, a credit card company, your bank, or your doctor. You may need to sign and return a form.” Source: National Institute on Aging http:// www.nia.nih.gov

Living wills

Debra

Advance directives are legal documents that state the kind of medical care or end-of-life decisions you want made on your behalf. It is a way for you to communicate your wishes to family or health care professionals. Emergency response medical personnel cannot honor advance directives or living wills. They are required to save and stabilize a person for transfer to a hospital or emergency facility. Once at the facility a physician will honor the directives. The living will as part of your directives gives your consent or refusal for sustained medical treatment when you are not able to give it yourself. If this document is not in place then a family member or physician will decide such things as: resuscitation if breathing or heartbeat stops; use of breathing machines; use of feeding tubes; and medications or medical procedures.

Advance directives and living wills are legal throughout the United States; however, some states may not honor other states’ directive documents. Be sure to check with the state you live in for their requirements. Review your directives periodically. They do not expire, but your wishes may change. A new or revised advanced directive invaliROIDL dates the old one. Be sure your family member or health care proxy has a current copy.

Power of attorney General power of attorney authorizes someone to handle your financial, banking and possibly real estate and government affairs as long as you remain competent. Special power of attorney authorizes someone you designate to handle certain things you cannot do yourself for a period of time. Durable power of attorney makes general, special and health care powers of attorney “durable” by adding certain text to the document. This means that the document will remain in effect or take effect if you become mentally incompetent. Many people do not know the difference between a general and a

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durable power of attorney. A general power of attorney is a document by which you appoint a person to act as your agent. Agents are authorized to make decisions for you, sign legal documents, etc. Many people are unaware that a general power of attorney is revoked when the person granting that power becomes incompetent or incapacitated. It is the durable power of attorney that allows for an agent to continue making decisions on your behalf no matter what happens to you. A responsible adult child of an aging parent would be given a durable power of attorney to act on behalf of the parent. This provides broader authority than just adding the child’s name to bank accounts and documents.

You may choose to produce notarized power of attorney documents on your own. If your estate is large and real estate or business is included, it is advised to secure a reliable attorney. Source: National Care Planning Council at www.longtermcarelink. net/a2cfind attorney.htm. Debra Roidl, MSW, member of the National Care Planning Council, is a Certified Care Manager in the local greater Toledo area. Read more about her eldercare services at her website, www. independentcaresoutions.com. Roidl is available to speak on a wide array of topics. You can reach her for more information by calling (419) 367-8835 or e-mailing debra@independent care soutions.com.

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PRACTICAL TRAVELER Call for a FREE in-home consultation.

Visiting Christmas markets along the Danube

mericans have traveled to Europe for many years to enjoy the Christmas markets. However, in recent years they have discovered that river cruising is a wonderful way to experience this. As with other cruising, you only unpack once. A few other bonuses are complimentary wine with dinner and most of the sightseeing is included. The main choices for river cruising at Christmas are the Seine and Rhone in France and the more popular trips on the Rhine and Danube. Most of these cruises range from five to 12 days. In 2007 my longlost cousin Jan from the state of Oregon, who found me on the Internet, thought we should get to know each other better. Since we both like to travel,

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we decided that a river trip might back at the Rathaus (city hall) where be a nice way to do this. She suffers we found the largest of Vienna’s seven Cristkindlmarkts. greatly from motion Even if you are not a sickness so we settled shopper, there is still so on the shorter Danube much to see and enjoy. trip. As it turned out, That evening we she had no problems; had the opportunity and people rarely enfor an optional tour counter mal de mere on ($65) to the Kursalon river cruises. We opted to enjoy the music of to go with Grand Circle Vienna, complete with (1-800-248-3737) since I had used their ser- Judy PFAFFENBERGER dancers. The next morning vices before and was quite satisfied. We chose one of the we were cruising through the Waearliest trips because it was cheaper chau valley, one of the most scenic and we thought that we might have stretches of the Danube — vineslightly warmer weather. However, yards, castles, abbeys. We were one of the markets was not open graced with sunshine for most of the morning and then a light dusting of that early. Jan flew to Toledo so she could snow made our visit to Melk Abbey meet the rest of the family at Thanks- Christmas-card perfect. A bus took giving dinner and then we flew out us up the hill for a tour of the abbey of Detroit the next day. We arrived at featuring a short organ concert in the our ship, the River Symphony, in Vi- gilded chapel. Linz was our port for the next day. enna shortly after noon the following day. After a quick lunch, I took the The main event was an optional tour free shuttle to the town center to get to Salzburg, which is my favorite city my bearings since I hadn’t been there so I couldn’t pass that up. Those who since 1980. That evening we enjoyed remained in Linz said that it was an enjoyable day, with a good market a relaxing dinner. The next day was Sunday so I and an art museum across from the started the day by dropping in at a dock. In Salzburg we had a walking local church service. Then we spent tour, a tasty lunch and then free time a few hours exploring the city — De- to explore the market and beyond. mels pastry shop, St. Stephan Cathe- Many took the funicular or walked dral, the Hofburg — and ended up up to the fortress.

Passau, at the confluence of the Inn, Ilz and Danube rivers, was our next stop. We began with a walking tour and ended at the cathedral which houses the world’s largest cathedral pipe organ. The sun was out in the afternoon and it was quite warm so I shed my coat and hiked to the top of the hill across the river for the view. Passau was a joy just to roam, with a Kodak moment around every corner. Regensburg was the only place on the trip where I hadn’t been before. Again we began with a walking tour and ended with our guide treating us to the city’s signature sausages. After some free time we gathered at a local church for a Christmas concert performed by a quartet of alumni from the Regensburg Boys Choir. Our last stop was Nuremburg. On a bus tour into the city we saw many historical sights connected with World War II. We were then dropped off in the Old Town for another walking tour and time to explore. I visited St. Lorenz Kirche, which is the mother church of the big church in Frankenmuth. We watched the glistening lights come on in the market before we headed back to the ship for our farewell dinner. E-mail travel columnist Judy Pfaffenberger at letters@toledofreepress.com.

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By Kristen Rapin-Criswell TOLEDO FREE PRESS SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR krapin@toledofreepress.com

Glass City Church is a new church in South Toledo that wants to bring Christ to area residents. “I hope the church gets large and we can help many people in Toledo grow in Christ, or continue to have a small group where we help a few people grow deeper in faith,” said lead pastor Jeff Lavalette. Lavalette, who is originally from Toledo, lived out of state for several years before hearing God’s call to return to Toledo and preach, he said. In 2008 Lavalette and his wife shared with their friends the idea of founding a church in the area and in March 2009 a small group of 10 began meeting for services. Glass City Church has since grown in size to 30 members, mostly in their 20s and 30s, Lavalette said. The church is searching for a denomination that fits with its beliefs, but is founded on four different values. Glass City Church is Christian, evangelical, missional and reform. “We’re theologically conservative,

but culturally liberal,” Lavalette said. Glass City Church believes the Bible is the highest authority when it comes to God and tries to eliminate as many manmade additions as possible. “We’re not a life coach. It’s just straight up Bible,” Lavelette said. “Some churches try to market, and say if you come you get some sort of package and guidance. We focus solely on the Bible.” Unlike other reform churches, Glass City Church is accepting of things that are a little less culturally conservative like tattoos and piercings, Lavalette said. Strict Baptists believe people shouldn’t drink or smoke, while at Glass City Church many of the members brew beer as a hobby, he said. Each week during service the church progresses through new chapters and books of the Bible; starting with one book and preaching on it for weeks until the entire scripture has been covered, Lavalette said. The church doesn’t preach around themes; whatever the Bible passage for the week is, is what’s going to be covered, he said. “Sometimes it’ll be a couple verses and sometimes it’ll be a couple sentences,” he said. “Sometimes eight

words can be so deep you learn a lot from them and adding more would be too much.” The church doesn’t sugar-coat the Bible and tell people things they want to hear, Lavelette said. Everyone is sinful and the only way to be saved is through the Lord, Lavelette said. “We as people believe in self-actualization and you earn you own. But you’re not going to be OK by yourself. You’re not going to be complete on you own, and when you tell someone that can be offensive,” he said. “The Gospel says we need a savior and people don’t want a savior. They want to save themselves.” Glass City Church meets every Sunday at 11 a.m. The church formerly met at a retirement home in Ottawa Hills, but beginning Dec. 12 will host services at Plate 21 restaurant, 3664 Rugby Drive. In addition to weekly services, on Monday evenings separate women’s and men’s groups get together to discuss issues and on Thursdays a co-ed missional community meets. For more information, visit www. glasscitychurch.org.

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TOLEDO FREE PRESS PHOTO BY KRISTEN RAPIN-CRISWELL

New church promises teachings are ‘straight-up Bible’

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JEFF LAVALETTE IS LEAD PASTOR OF GLASS CITY CHURCH IN SOUTH TOLEDO.

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PBS ‘God in America’ series addresses religious tensions

ddressing the role of religion in Abraham Lincoln who was forced by society is always a tricky thing. the civil war to engage and clarify his Believers are quick to defend, own feelings about God. The list goes on and on. often being uncritical in But there are also their argument and desome unusual characmeanor. Nonbelievers, ters as well. I particuequally uncritical, eilarly enjoyed the story ther fain little interest or telling around the life wish the religious would of James Finley, a charsimply go away. It is no acter from my own wonder that one of the Methodist tradition I two taboos in the polite knew little about. The meanderings of a social story about 19th cengathering is the discusEric MCGLADE tury Rabbi Isaac Mayer sion of religion. The other Wise and the formataboo is politics. Combine the two and civil conversation be- tion of the “reform movement in Judaism” was also new ground for me. comes difficult, at best. But this is exactly what the pro- In all cases, the storytelling is crisp, ducers of two PBS programs set out to engaging and undergirded with a do. The folks at Frontline and Amer- subtle and simply shared soundtrack ican Experience pooled their collec- of classic American hymnody. Good storytelling is not the only tive talent in documentary making to give us “God in America: How Reli- thing that happens in this series. The gious Liberty Shaped America.” This series also addresses the creative tensix week series airing on PBS begins sions religious life in America brings. with the Spanish conquistadors and The tension between “community” the English pilgrims. It ends with the order and “individual” freedom; rise of the so-called “evangelical right” between scriptural literalism and and the influx of new religious vitality the metaphorical interpretation; from Islamic, Asian, and Latino influ- between science and faith; between ences brought by recent immigrants political entanglements and keeping prophetic distance from politicians to our country. In between there are all the usual are all explored. The discussion on characters: Pilgrim governor John the work of Billy Graham and Dr. Winthrop struggling with what to do Martin Luther King Jr. was compelwith the contrarian Anne Hutchinson; ling. Mr. Graham’s preoccupation a religiously ambivalent Thomas Jef- with befriending presidents despite ferson, working with the Baptists Dr. King’s desire to maintain a “proagainst his own Anglican Church phetic distance” from these leaders to create the “wall of separation be- reminded me why I find the work of tween Church and State;” a crusading Dr. King so much more challenging Archbishop John Hughes advocating and interesting. The series ends with President for the rights of Catholic children to be educated in heavily protestant Reagan reclaiming the puritan vision New York City; a soulful President of making America the “city on a hill”

and President Obama celebrating the rich religious diversity found in our country. But the writers of the series did not stop there. While much of America has been shaped by religion, they remind those of us who are religious that much of who we are as religious people has been shaped by the American spirit. This

spirit that challenged the Puritans and Anglicans to make room for Baptists and Methodists, challenged Protestants to make room for Catholics and Christians to make room for Jews. This spirit that today challenges Christians and Jews to make room for Muslims, Sheiks, Hindus, Buddhists, the spiritual but not re-

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(ARA) — When Sharon Saxelby’s first grandchild was born last year, she knew baby Reece would be showered with generosity by other family members, friends and well-wishers, and she was right. But, as president and CEO of a nonprofit organization called Friends of the Orphans, which transforms the lives of children in need in Latin America and the Caribbean, Saxelby was thrilled that one of the most thoughtful gifts Reece received wasn’t an expensive stroller or baby play mat. Colleagues from work, in the spirit of celebrating Reece’s birth by helping those less fortunate, made a monetary donation in her name to their charity. Saxelby was touched by the gesture and so were Reece’s parents. As the hectic holiday season once again approaches, gift givers frantically compile their annual lists: an iPad for their spouse, a PS3 game for their tween son, pricey jeans for their high school junior. According to the National Retail Federation, in 2009 the average amount spent on holiday gifts, food and decorations was $682. When looking at the escalating cost and proliferation of electronic gadgetry, the clutter of DVDs, books or clothes and the time spent trying to find that special trinket, givers are realizing they could do a lot better. Creative gift giving or charitable contributions to philanthropic causes and churches in the name of others is a lasting way to make an impact and transform the lives of those desperately in need. Not to mention the fact that the gift of nonprofit giving will withstand the next technology iteration and continue long past this year’s fashion fad. When heavy charitable hitters Bill Gates and Warren Buffett announced in early August their “Giving Pledge,” a recession-inspired commitment to sign over at least half of their assets to nonprofits over their lifetime or after their death, they hoped to inspire others to contribute to worthy causes as well.

“

Realizing that if each family donated just 10 percent of their estimated holiday spending to a charity instead of spending it on material gifts, many recipients who are deprived of life’s most basic needs would be afforded the chance for a brighter new year.” — Sharon Saxelby, president and CEO, Friends of the Orphans For organizations like Friends of the Orphans, which supports more than 3,600 orphaned, abandoned and disadvantaged children in nine Latin American and Caribbean countries, this commitment to help children in need resonates especially powerfully this year. “Realizing that if each family donated just 10 percent of their estimated holiday spending to a charity instead of spending it on material gifts, many recipients who are deprived of life’s most basic needs would be afforded the chance for a brighter new year,” Saxelby said. “For instance, an amount as small as $12 can provide a child with no shoes a brand-new pair, or $100 can provide one of our children anti-retroviral HIV

medication for one month. When put into the right perspective, it’s easy to see how a small amount can have a huge and lasting impact.” Each charitable organization and church has different methods of encouraging holiday giving, and each is an important part of the vitality and growth of the nonprofit. This year, Friends of the Orphans has created a unique and memorable way donors can help children in need, especially during the Christmas season. The 2010 Gift Catalog, at www.friendsoftheorphans.org/GiftCatalog, allows visitors to learn about the special Christmas celebrations each orphanage has, and through donations either in their own names or on behalf of others, to provide useful and appreciated gifts to the children. Saxelby said that for the thousands of children Friends of the Orphans helps, Christmas is an especially poignant time for them because, for many, it is the first time they have felt love, warmth and hope for their future. “Watching a happy child enjoy holiday traditions, a warm meal and then open up a bag of gifts containing shoes and clothes, when perhaps a year ago they were homeless and afraid, and knowing that our supporters make that transformation possible, is a very powerful thing,” she said. The holidays are all about celebrating, and regardless of which organizations donors choose to contribute to, giving can make their season more rewarding and truly enrich the lives of those less privileged. Realizing that you are able to transform someone’s life is often the best gift of all. For more information about Friends of the Orphans, visit www.friendsoftheorphans.org. For a directory of local churches, visit www. churches-in.com/OH/Toledo/.

Join us at our Special 6 pm Christmas Eve “Candlelight” Service. John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son...”

Plus, don’t miss some of our upcoming events and sermon series at First Church! “IT TOOK A MIRACLE” December Sermon Series Sundays @ 10:00 am 12th - What a Plan 19th - Check It Out 24th - It’s a Miracle (Friday @ 6:00 pm) 26th - What It all Means

FAMILY SUNDAY CHRISTMAS PROGRAM FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

Sunday, December 19th @ 10:00 am

Pastor Larry Vriezelaar 2315 Collingwood Blvd. • Toledo, OH 43620 419-243-6248 • www.ﬁrstchurchtoledo.com

CHRISTMAS EVE “CANDLELIGHT” SERVICE Friday, December 24th @ 6:00 pm

Regular Sunday Worship Services are at 10:00 a.m. • Blend of Contemporary & Traditional Worship.

Christmas Eve at Trinity Church 5:30 p.m. - Family Service 10:30 p.m. - Musical Prelude Festive Christ Mass at 11 p.m.

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Phones subject to availability. Limited-time offer. Subject to wireless customer agrmt. Credit approval req’d. Activ. fee up to $36/line. Coverage & svcs, including mobile broadband, not avail everywhere. Geographic, usage & other conditions & restrictions (that may result in svc termination) apply. Taxes & other chrgs apply. Prices & equip. vary by mkt & may not be avail. from ind. retailers. See store or visit att.com for details and coverage map. Early Termination Fee (ETF): None if cancelled during first 30 days, but a $35 restocking fee may apply; after 30 days, ETF up to $150 or $325 applies depending on device (details att.com/equipmentETF). Subject to change. Agents may impose add’l fees. Regulatory Cost Recovery Charge up to $1.25/mo. is chrg’d to help defray costs of complying with gov’t obligations & chrgs on AT&T & is not a tax or gov’t req’d chrg. AT&T Promotion Cards: Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 with 2-year wireless service agreement on voice & minimum $15/mo data plan required per phone is $99.99. PANTECH LINK price before AT&T Promotion Card; with 2-year wireless service agreement on voice & minimum $20/mo data plan required is $39.99. SAMSUNG FOCUS with 2-year wireless service agreement on voice & minimum $15/mo data plan required per phone is $199.99. Allow 60 days for fulfillment. Card may be used only in the U.S. & is valid for 120 days after issuance date but is not redeemable for cash & cannot be used for cash withdrawal at ATMs or automated gasoline pumps. Card request must be postmarked by 2/3/2011 & you must be a customer for 30 consecutive days to receive card. AT&T Promotion Card may be used to pay for wireless services from AT&T but may not be used to purchase regulated landline telephone services in certain states. Sales tax calculated based on price of unactivated equipment. Smartphone Data Plan Requirement: Smartphone requires minimum DataPlus (200MB); $15 will automatically be charged for each additional 200MB provided on DataPlus if initial 200MB is exceeded. All data, including overages, must be used in the billing period in which the allowance is provided or be forfeited. For more details on data plans, go to att.com/dataplans. Microsoft Windows® Phone and the Windows logo are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies. Screen images simulated. ©2010 AT&T Intellectual Property. Service provided by AT&T Mobility. All rights reserved. AT&T and the AT&T logo are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

BUSINESS LINK

ON THE WEB

This week’s column by Dock David Treece, “Obama caught between a tax cut and a hard place,”is posted at m www.toledofreepress.com

A23

FINANCE

By Duane Ramsey TOLEDO FREE PRESS SENIOR BUSINESS WRITER dramsey@toledofreepress.com

Huntington National Bank unveiled its new brand and first refreshed branch in Northwest Ohio with an open house at the Wernerts Corner branch in Toledo Dec. 4. The refurbished branch features a new entryway, exterior signage, interior design, ATM machine, and two additional drive-through lanes at the first completed branch office in this region. The new branch design is part of a $70 million capital investment to “refresh” 608 branches and 1,355 ATM locations in six states over the next two years, according to David Hawkins, senior vice president and director of Customer Experience at Huntington. “We’re trying to improve the customer experience and achieve a level of consistency overall with a greater focus on the Huntington brand,” said Hawkins. “We also wanted to improve the working environment for the company’s colleagues as well.” The Wernerts Corner branch on Laskey Road remained open during the remodeling with the interior work being completed before the Thanksgiving holiday. The exterior work and new signage was completed for the open house. “Our customers recognized the changes inside immediately and we’ve had an extremely positive reaction to how warm and customer friendly it is,” said Frank Knakiewicz, branch manager and assistant vice president. “A lot of people still want to come into the branch to do their banking business,” he said. The branch hosted a community open house beginning with a ribboncutting ceremony, continuing with fun activities and hourly drawings for prizes until noon. It included live broadcasts on K-100 and Star-105 radio stations and visit by the Toledo Walleye mascots.

TOLEDO FREE PRESS PHOTO BY CHARLIE LONGTON

Huntington Bank unveils ‘new brand’ in NW Ohio

■

MARY ANN RAMM, LEFT, LAURA COTTLE AND FRANK KNAKIEWICZ OF HUNTINGTON BANK.

Huntington branches are serving as drop-off sites for the Toledo Seagate Food Bank and Salvation Army Coats for Kids throughout the holiday season. “We’re staying here to serve the people in the community better,” Knakiewicz said. He knows this branch and the community as well as anyone since he grew up there. A graduate of Whitmer High School, Knakiewicz came to work at the branch in 1974 after grad-

uating from Defiance College when it was still Lucas County State Bank. He became branch manager in 1978 and has served customers in the community through its transition to Huntington National Bank. “In 32 years, I got to know the families, from parents to children and even grandchildren, and help them with their financial needs. This community is close to my heart and I’m fortunate to be here for them and work for Hun-

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tington this long,” Knakiewicz said. “Frank has established a wonderful rapport with the people in this community for Huntington,” said Shannon Loar-Tenney, regional marketing communications manager for Huntington. In addition to refurbishing its branches, Huntington recently introduced its new 24-Hour Grace program. It provides personal checking account holders with 24 hours to cor-

Call us for your business needs – Ken Connell 419-259-5945 Rich Heck 419-259-8530 Member FDIC

rect overdrawing their account and avoid overdraft fees. The 24-Hour Grace program is the subject of Huntington’s current consumer advertising campaign on television. All bank colleagues will be wearing the new Huntington career apparel seen in the TV spots by the end of the year. “It’s one more way that we’re taking care of our customers and our colleagues,” Hawkins said.

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A24 n Toledo Free Press

DECEMBER 12, 2010

THE RETIREMENT GUYS

Bush tax cut and unemployment benefits extension update

ecently, President Obama announced a tentative deal on extending the Bush tax cuts and unemployment benefits that are set to expire at the end of this year. Not addressing this issue could have a serious negative impact on many Americans’ financial futures, but a revolt in Congress could still stall the deal. So here is how to plan out the Mark remainder of the year. December has Nolan been one of the best performing months in the past decade in the stock market. If our government doesn’t extend the Bush tax cuts history may not repeat itself. This is because savers and investors may not want to pay higher taxes in the future, leading them to sell sooner rather than later. Tax rates could go up for all taxpayers; this includes income taxes for IRA withdrawals for retirees, as well as taxes on capital gains and dividends for regular investors. On the positive side, a tax cut extension could help the stock market have an additional end-of-year rally. This is the wrong time to let benefits expire. Employment opportunities are still on shaky ground. On Dec. 1 nearly 800,000 unemployed Americans lost their long-term unemployment benefits. In the next few weeks another 1.2 million people are expected to lose their unemployment benefits. At the same time, the Federal Reserve revised their unemployment forecast to 8.2 percent through 2012. The unemployment number for the future was revised up from previous

estimates of no more than 7.5 percent a few months ago. That would mean the new estimate puts around an additional 1 million Americans still out of work versus previous estimates. President Obama and the Republicans’ tentative deal not only would extend tax cuts it would extend unemployment benefits by 13 months. CLAIR The government doesn’t need more BAKER taxpayer dollars right now, they need to spend less and smarter. According to www.usgovernmentspending.com, our government is expected to add $1.9 trillion in new debt in 2010. The Treasury Department reports that fiscal year 2010, which ended Sept. 30, 2010, had a record $3.49 trillion dollars in spending. This isn’t a new problem, only five times in the past 50 years has our government ended the year with a surplus; our government can’t continue to spend money they don’t have without long-term consequences. If tax cuts are extended our government needs to spend less than they take in and quickly identify and implement cost-saving plans. Let private companies put Americans back to work. It is OK to put a handout and help someone up when they get knocked down. We as a country got knocked down financially and economically in the past. In many aspects, the government needed to help with this recovery. Extending the Bush tax cuts will help

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DECEMBER 12, 2010 n RETIREMENT CONTINUED FROM A24 An individual investor still needs to control their own outcome. Do this by saving and investing to become self-reliant no matter what the government decides to do. Review how much money should be kept in taxable, taxdeferred and tax-free accounts. Review and implement end-of-the-year and long-term tax planning strategies.

Learn what you can do before the tax rates change to minimize the taxes you could pay in the future. Do this by setting up an appointment with an accountant or an investment professional and review strategies before the clock ticks midnight on New Year’s Eve, no matter what decisions are made in Washington. For more information about The Retire-

ment Guys, tune in every Saturday at 1 p.m. on 1370 WSPD or visit www.retirementguysradio.com. Securities and Advisory Services are offered through NEXT Financial Group Inc., Member FINRA / SIPC. NEXT Financial Group, Inc nor its representatives provide tax advice. The Retirement Guys are not an affiliate of NEXT Financial Group. The office is at 1700 Woodlands Drive, Suite 100, Maumee, OH 43537.

TICKETS ARE THE PERFECT HOLIDAY GIFT!

Golf’s greatest champions, including Greg Norman and Bernhard Langer, will return to Toledo’s historic Inverness Club July 25 – 31. Purchase discounted Weekly Grounds and Weekly Upgrade tickets at any Toledo area Kroger store, or buy online at:

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Visit www.toledofreepress.com

n A25

Laura Stover Financial Group opens new office in Bryan Laura H. Stover Financial Group LLC recently celebrated the opening of its new offices in Bryan. The independent financial advisory firm, owned and operated by Laura Stover, specializes in working with pre-retirees and retirees to create and implement comprehensive estate and retirement plans. “We’ve experienced significant growth and with this new location we are able to meet the demands of our growing client base,” Stover said. As part of the firm’s grand opening celebration, Stover STOVER hosted several free public workshops in Archbold, Defiance and Pettisville during the past two months. The educational sessions addressed timely topics and financial strategies relevant to today’s unique economic environment, she said. Stover assists individuals with safely accumulating wealth, creating an income plan for the retirement years, minimizing taxes on income, Social Security and estate, as well as planning for the transition of an estate to designated heirs with minimal legal and tax concerns. Laura H. Stover Financial Group is located at 110 W. High St. in Bryan and can be reached at (866) 633-0955 or www.laurahstoverfinancial.com. — Duane Ramsey

SPORTS

A26

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BAUMAN’s BREAKDOWN

Archie Donald finally gets the big finale with UT

t 6 foot, 2 inches and 244 pounds, Toledo senior linebacker Archie Donald is a big dude. He plays big, too, even going back to his days at Penn Hills High School in Pittsburgh, where he competed alongside former Rocket and current Dallas Cowboys safety Barry Church. Donald was selected to play in the annual Big 33 Game between Ohio and Pennsylvania’s gridiron stars following a senior campaign in which he had 102 tackles and earned first-team All-AAAA honors by the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review and the Pittsburgh PostGazette for the second-straight season. He received first-team Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League honors that year as well.

Since Donald became part of To- seventh all-time in Rockets’ annals ledo’s football family back in 2006, for career tackles and sacks. If Donald the fifth-year senior’s big play and finishes with more tackles than sophomore linebacker Dan tackling ability has not Molls in the Little Caeonly continued to haunt sars Pizza Bowl against opponents throughout Florida International his college career, but University Dec. 26, he’ll also etched him in the become the first player Rockets’ record books. in school history to lead Following Toledo’s the team in tackles for 42-31 victory over Centhree seasons in a row. tral Michigan in its reg“It’s a great accomular season finale Nov. plishment, but it all 26, Donald eclipsed the Mike BAUMAN starts up front with the 100-tackle mark for the defensive line getting a third consecutive season after his 13-tackle performance gave great push and keeping those guys off him a total of 134 for the year and of us linebackers to run [and] make 412 for his career, which ranks him plays,” Donald said after his final game

at the Glass Bowl in that win over the Chippewas Nov. 26. “So I give credit to the defensive line for that.” Donald’s leadership and skill on the defensive side of the ball this year has helped Toledo (8-4, 7-1 MidAmerican Conference) finish No. 3 in the country in turnovers gained with 33 as he racked up a singleseason career high in tackles, tying for first place in the MAC in that category. For his efforts, Donald earned second-team All-MAC honors from the conference and first-team AllMAC honors from Phil Steele Magazine. It’s no surprise that Donald deflected the praise to his teammates for his personal accomplishments, given that he frequently refers to

them as his family. Second-year Toledo head coach Tim Beckman often refers to the team as a family, and Donald himself comes from a big family with five sisters and one brother. “Since I’ve been here, this is the best record I’ve had,” Donald said. “I’m just ready to play one more game with my teammates and just one more game in this family atmosphere, so that’s big.” While Donald is happy to finally have tasted the first winning season of his college career, the fact that the Rockets’ bowl game will take place in the Midwest makes it all the more special. n BAUMAN CONTINUES ON A27

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“It’s good to be close to home because a lot of our fans are coming,” Donald said. “Their family and friends can come and just be there to support us because that’s what made us big on the field, just the fans out there, just getting us excited as well. That’s big.” DONALD For Donald, the winning season and bowl bid has come with long-awaited expectation and anticipation rather than surprise, serving as justification for why he came to Toledo. “It’s a winning program, so I kind of figured that I would at least get one under my belt,” Donald said with a chuckle. Come Dec. 26 at Ford Field in Detroit, you can bet that No. 42 won’t be doing any chuckling. He’ll be taking his familiar place in the middle of the Rockets’ defense before every snap, then seeking out the opposition like a guided missile cloaked in midnight blue and gold as he tries to tackle the most elusive object of his career: a bowl victory. That would be big.

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Sanzenbacher is OSU’s MVP COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Wide receiver Dane Sanzenbacher has been voted Ohio State’s MVP for the 2010 football season. The Toledo native, who played for Central Catholic High School, also received the award as the top wide receiver and the most inSANZENBACHER spirational senior. Quarterback Terrelle Pryor was the outstanding offensive player and defensive lineman Cameron Heyward the top player on defense. Other awards announced at the Dec. 2 banquet: wide receiver Corey Brown (first-year offensive player), lineman Johnathan Hankins (first-year defensive player), kicker Devin Barclay (special teams), Ross Homan and Brian Rolle (linebackers) and tailback Daniel Herron (offensive back).

wheels

A28 n Toledo Free Press

DECEMBER 12, 2010

TECHNOLOGY

By Duane Ramsey

TOLEDO FREE PRESS SENIOR BUSINESS WRITER dramsey@toledofreepress.com

University of Toledo alum Jeffrey Liedel returned to his alma mater to give a guest lecture on GM’s new Volt electric car and the OnStar response system before an audience of about 100 people Dec. 3. Liedel, chief information officer for OnStar at General Motors, drove the Volt equipped with the OnStar system from Detroit to Toledo. He exhibited the electric car and plugged it in for recharging outside Nitschke Hall on the UT campus. Volt has an electric driving range of up to 50 miles with range extending, gas-driven electric generator to power it. “It has LIEDEL to have alternative fuel in case it runs out of juice,” Liedel said. “With Volt and the communications capabilities of OnStar, you can be found wherever you are,” Liedel said. “We put a lot of technology into the Volt but we’ve just scratched the surface with technology.” Liedel said GM is working on united communications technology that will allow hands-free telephone calls, e-mails, conferencing and text messaging online in vehicles, making use of technology safer in cars. “We’re working on that stuff and making a lot of progress,” he told the audience at UT. n VOLT CONTINUES ON A29

toledo free press photo by duane ramsey

UT alum delivers lecture on GM’s Volt, OnStar

GM’s Chevrolet Volt is plugged in for re-charging outside Nitschke Hall at UT.

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DECEMBER 12, 2010 ■ VOLT CONTINUED FROM A28 “People buy Volt because they want that kind of car and to operate that car at a lower cost,” he said. Chevy’s Volt was chosen 2010 Car of the Year by Motor Trend and Automobile magazines and as Green Car of the Year at the LA Auto Show, Liedel said. However, the Volt is in limited

production by GM and only being offered on the East and West coasts, in Michigan and Texas at this time. It may be another year and a half before it’s offered in Ohio, according to Joe Malin, general manager of Dave White Chevrolet in Sylvania. Malin said there would be a limited market for Volt and recommended that anyone interested in purchasing one should contact a Chevrolet dealer-

ship in the metropolitan Detroit area. Liedel said GM is developing technology that will give customers more information on OnStar. He reported that GM is active with blogs and social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter with the potential of reaching 500 million active users. “The commercialization of technology has changed the way we engage

Visit www.toledofreepress.com m customers, dealers and employees. We’re only limited by our imagination,” he said. In addition to his lecture, Liedel also spent time speaking with UT engineering students about the OnStar Student Development Challenge to create original voice-enabled applications. Liedel graduated from UT in 1988 with a degree in computer science and engineering. He grew up in Monroe,

■ A29

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A30. ■ TOLEDO FREE PRESS

DECEMBER 12, 2010

BOOKS

By Sarah Ottney TOLEDO FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER news@toledofreepress.com

A Toledo comic shop is set to host the official nationwide release of a new book about Batman. “Gotham City 14 Miles: 14 Essays on Why the 1960s Batman TV Series Matters” was edited by Toledo Free Press Star contributor Jim Beard and includes essays by Beard, Toledo Free Press and Toledo Free Press Star editor in chief Michael S. Miller and other local writers as well as many wellknown names in the comics world. Beard and Miller will be at Monarch Cards and Comics, 4400 Heatherdowns Blvd., from 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 18 to answer questions and sign books. “This is literally the premiere of the book,” Beard said. “Monarch will get it before any comic shop in the U.S. — a benefit of being in the editor’s hometown.” The shop will have 70 copies, with about 35 already reserved for preorder customers, said manager Ed Katschke. The book will be available at other comic shops later in December and online in January, Beard said. Owner Steve Shufritz said Beard has been a friend and regular customer for more than 20 years and the shop wanted to support him. “We e-mailed the publisher and asked if he’d be interested in helping us host a book-signing,” Shufritz said. “He called us back and was really enthusiastic and we hammered out the details from there. It seemed like too good an opportunity to miss, with several contributors right here in Toledo.” Miller said he discovered Batman comics and graphic novels in the mid1980s at Monarch, when the store was located on Airport Highway. “I remember having conversations with [Shufritz] when ‘The Killing Joke’ and ‘The Dark Knight Returns’ debuted,” Miller said. “So to contribute to a Batman book that will be for sale in his store is very cool to me personally.” The book aims to “critically examine the 1966-68 ‘Batman’ TV series and quantify its worth and

PHOTO COURTESY JIM BEARD

Toledo shop to debut local authors’ Batman book

■

JIM BEARD’S PUBLISHED CREDITS INCLUDES STORIES PUBLISHED IN “STAR WARS” AND “GHOSTBUSTERS” COMICS. HE IS SHOWN HERE WITH THE 1966 BATMOBILE.

weight in current pop culture,” according to publisher Sequart’s website. “It also intends to shoot down many of the clichés, falsehoods and outright misinformation about the show and illuminate its strengths and, yes, its weaknesses.” Topics include analyses of the music, villains, gadgetry and a female perspective on the male-dominated show. Beard thinks the book will appeal not only to Batman fans, but to anyone interested in pop culture. “I hope that we’re going to get some people that don’t normally come into comic shops,” Beard said. “It’s not just about the show or its connection with comics, but its connection with so many different things. I think people will get a view of all the things going on in the 1960s. In a wider sense, it’s a chronicle of pop culture

ACTIVE

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and not just then, but now. The show served as an inspiration to so many people working today.” Other contributors include Chuck Dixon (writer of the “Batman” comics in the 1990s), Paul Kupperberg (former editor at DC Comics), Robert Greenberger (writer and former editor of Comics Scene magazine), Will Patrick Murray (author and pulp-fiction scholar), Peter Sanderson (archivist and researcher for DC and Marvel Comics), Timothy Callahan (reviewer and columnist for a comics news website), Beard’s wife Becky and more. In October, Beard, Miller and several other essayists hosted a standingroom-only panel discussion about the book at the New York City Comic Con, where a limited-run beta edition of the book sold out. “That was really, really something,”

Beard said. “I remember walking up to the panel after the last panel was done thinking this crowd must be for the panel after us. And they said ‘No these people are here for you and the book.’ That was really cool. We had so many people coming up afterward with beaming faces saying this was really great and they were looking forward to the book. That was everything that I wanted.” With the 45th anniversary of the TV series coming up in January, Beard said he hopes the book gets people talking about “Batman” again. “It’d be fun if it was so well-received that people asked if there would be a follow-up,” Beard said. “I think I have enough topics left for one more book.” For more information, call Monarch Cards and Comics at (419) 3821451 or visit www.sequart.com.

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Holidaygiftguide

DECEMBER 12, 2010

Visit www.toledofreepress.com

n A31

By Kristen Rapin-Criswell

Toledo Free Press Special Sections Editor krapin@toledofreepress.com

Spa days and massages can help people escape from their everyday routines. Giving the gift of a massage or spa package provides the recipient with a bit of relaxation he or she might not have otherwise received. “It’s really giving the gift of time and relaxation,” said Toni D’Emilio, manager of Bella Via Day Spa. “Sometimes we don’t do that for ourselves. I like the idea of giving the gift of time, it forces someone to take time for themselves.” In addition to providing time, massages, pedicures, facials and other spa treatments provide the gift of touch, said Ruth Dotson, owner of

Elements Day Spa. “I hear a lot from people not sure what to give people and a spa package is perfect … People are always stressed out around the holidays and this is a gift that shows you care. It’s being touched. It stays with you for a long time and you feel better afterwards,” Dotson said. Bella Via Day Spa, 2865 N. Reynolds Road, is a medically based spa owned by two plastic surgeons. As a result, the spa does a lot of skin care with different peels and facials, D’Emilio said. “We take a very personal approach to our services,” she said. “We do a full health history and find out what skin care concerns there are — such as wrinkles, dry skin, pigmentation — and we do things that

can address those issues.” In addition to skin treatments Bella Via offers various body treatments, such as massages, body wraps and mud treatments, as well as makeup services with permanent make-up and eyelash extensions and hair removal with both waxing and laser removal. The spa also sells different skin care products and offers spray tanning. The spa’s most popular package is a massage for two, D’Emilio said. “It’s kind of quality time for the both of them to be together,” she said. “They can make an afternoon of it and go out to eat afterward. It’s perfect for the holidays or special occasions.” Couple’s massages are $144 for an hour, she said. Elements Day Spa, 5122 Heatherdowns Blvd., also offers a special couple’s package. “Pamper Me Pamper You,” offers a hydrofacial massage, a 30-minute massage, a classic pedicure and a spa snack for $230. Elements most popular package, however, is the “Half Day Getaway,” Dotson said. The “Getaway” is comprised of a 90-minute aromatherapy massage, a classic manicure and pedicure combo and a snack for $125. “I think that’s our most popular because it’s inexpensive. People see, wow, they’re getting a lot of services for not a whole lot of money,” Dotson said. Bella Via offers gift cards for any dollar amount.

toledo free press photo by kristen rapin-criswell

Spas and massages offer the gift of relaxation

Massage Therapist Julie Rodriquez massageS Haley LaFountaine.

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and printed at home. “It’s perfect for those last-minute gifts. They don’t have to wait or come in to the spa to purchase it,” Dotson said. For more information, visit www. elements-dayspa.org.

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Holidaygiftguide

A32 n Toledo Free Press

DECEMBER 12, 2010

By Joel Sensenig

Toledo Free Press Staff Writer news@toledofreepress.com

Shopping for the sports fans on one’s list can be intimidating, especially when they’ve already got about 14 Ohio State pint glasses, a Wolverine foam claw or a Browns snack bowl helmet in their collections. Fortunately, the Toledo area is full of local retailers offering a slew of gifts for whatever kind of sports fanatic you are shopping for. Here’s a look at a few of the locally owned options:

Bucks, Blue and more

Since opening this summer, The Buckeye Store and More has made a name for itself in the collegiate sports apparel and merchandise arena. Located in the Starlite Plaza on Monroe Street in Sylvania, the store not only has the largest (12 feet tall) inflatable Brutus the Buckeye in the state, it’s got one of the largest collections of all things scarlet and gray one will find in the region. Although merchandise from The Ohio State University makes up 60 percent of its sales, fans of other universities in the region are sure to find something to their liking as well. The University of

Michigan, Michigan State University, Notre Dame, University of Toledo and Bowling Green State University are also well-represented, with products also available from more distant teams such as Wisconsin, Iowa and Purdue. “Our reversible jackets have been real hot,” said co-owner Jim Damschroder, who is partners with Jim Steeg, former director of special events for the NFL and Michael Wells, former all-Big Ten quarterback at the University of Illinois and former quarterback with the Minnesota Vikings and Cincinnati Bengals. “They’re wool/leather on one side and nylon on the inside, and you reverse them in inclement weather.” The coats retail for $99.95. One thing setting The Buckeye Store and More apart from other outlets is its unique licensing agreement with OSU, which allows the store to offer clothing products not found elsewhere. “I hold 18 different product licenses with Ohio State myself, and they’re all apparel,” Damschroder said. Unique clothing options found at the store include team-themed blazers, khakis, golf shirts, dress shirts — even Hawaiian-style shirts. n SPORTS CONTINUES ON A33

toledo free press photo by charles longton

Local stores offer gift options for sports fans on your list

Craig Katz, director of merchandise and licensing for the Walleye and Mud Hens, at the swamp shop.

Holidaygiftguide

DECEMBER 12, 2010 n SPORTS CONTINUED FROM A32 Fans looking for that special something for the Buckeye fan who bleeds scarlet and gray will also find an 8-foot inflatable Brutus ($119); clock saying “Time to beat Michigan” ($25.99); OSU shower curtain rings ($21.99); flip-flops ($19.98); fight song buttons ($16) and chocolates ($9.95). Shoppers looking for Wolverine

items need not be scared away from entering the store with their arch rival’s mascot overhead, however. This is where the “and More” part of the store’s name comes into play. University of Michigan logos adorn dozens of items in the store, including glass lamps, clocks, dog food and water bowls, playing cards, fight song buttons, napkins, sippy cups and plenty more.

The Buckeye Store and More’s holiday hours are: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. The store is located at 5700 Monroe St., Sylvania, (419) 517-7097.

Walleye and Mud Hens

There’s an easy way for Craig Katz to tell that he’s doing his job as di-

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rector of merchandise and licensing for the Toledo Walleye and Toledo Mud Hens. Merchandise sales of both teams’ apparel ranks in the top five of their respective leagues. Historically, the Mud Hens have been among the most sought after teams when it comes to minor league baseball gear. Last year, in the team’s inaugural season on the ice, the Walleye logo was featured on more purchased apparel than any other team in the ECHL. This year looks to be a repeat performance of the past, according to Katz. Business is solid at both Swamp Shop stores, located in both the Huntington Center and Fifth Third Field. “Walleye jerseys and anything with the brand Under Armor for the Walleye, Mud Hens hooded sweatshirts and retro apparel for the Mud Hens has sold really well so far,” Katz said. “We have hundreds of different styles of T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats and things like that, and we do consistently keep things fresh here. What you saw here last Christmas is definitely not what you see here this Christmas.” This holiday season, the ice portion of the Swamp Shop is bogged down with plenty of replica Walleye jerseys in a variety of colors ($105.95), hoodies ($59.95) and T-shirts ($18.95). Smaller gift items include Walleye baseball hat ($18.95), navy Walleye pint glass ($9.95), black Walleye mug ($9.95) or gift cards in an amount of your choice. Mud Hens gift options include a track jacket ($69.95), a variety of hoodies ($69.95) and the famous T-logo baseball cap ($19.95). For a stocking stuffer, throw in a Fifth Third Field coffee mug ($7.95). Merchandise for both teams is available at the websites www.mudhens. com and www.toledowalleye.com. To add to the holiday spirit this season, the clubs are offering a couple of special Christmas events for fans at the Huntington Center Swamp Shop. From 6-8 p.m. Dec. 15, Walleye players will be providing free gift wrapping for shoppers, in addition to posing for photographs and signing autographs. From noon to 2 p.m. Dec. 18, the teams’ mascots, Spike and Muddy, will be acting out holiday stories for young fans. Swamp Shop (1-800-736-9520) hours at both locations through Dec. 23 are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; and noon to 3 p.m. Sunday.

Sports Zone

419-841-1292 or 1-800-720-7005 4352 Sylvania, Toledo, Ohio

Visit www.toledofreepress.com

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One of the best-kept sports memorabilia secrets in the area might be located down in Bowling Green at the Sports Zone, tucked away in the Woodland Mall on State Route 25 at

n A33

the north end of the college town. There, owner Rick Schmidt boasts one of the largest collections of unique sports items for the sports nut on your list, no matter where his team loyalty lies. Need a Tampa Bay Buccaneers glow pen? Sports Zone has you covered. A Chicago Blackhawks gnome figurine? Check. A Philadelphia 76ers “fans only” parking sign? Look no further. An Ohio State cornhole set? Of course. Sports Zone is a man cave nirvana of sorts, with more than 10,000 different sports items packed into one retail space, with entire aisles devoted to the most popular teams, making the shopping experience a lot less frustrating and time-consuming. NFL, NCAA, MLB, NBA and NHL teams are each well-represented with a slew of items the sports fanatic on your list is not likely to have seen elsewhere. “With the exception of clothing — there’s very little wearable material at Sports Zone — I have more items here than any store within a 100-mile radius,” Schmidt said, looking around one of his store’s two rooms. “Where else are you going to find a neon Saints sign in this state?” By far, his most popular team for merchandise is the Pittsburgh Steelers, with a large section at the front of the store dedicated to the team with six Super Bowl championships. Couches, recliners, pint glasses, clocks, toothbrushes, pencils, keychains, dining plates, shot glasses, vintage metal beverage cans and an assortment of signs all adorn the famous three-star design of the team that made Pittsburgh famous. “I’ve had people tell me that I have items they can’t even find in Pittsburgh,” said Schmidt, who relies on his relationships with more than 50 suppliers to find the thousands of “sports décor” items that pack Sports Zone. Because rent at the off-the-beatenpath location is cheaper than at other retail outlets, Schmidt is able to afford to keep larger items that other stores are not able to house. Full couches ($599), futons ($399), coffee tables and end tables ($250 for a set of three pieces), neon signs ($295), and recliners ($550) are among the larger items Schmidt has available, often at prices lower than shoppers will find on www.nflshop. com or eBay. Schmidt will also seek items he does not have in stock for customers and does offer shipping if needed. Sports Zone (419-353-2710) is located in the Woodland Mall, 1234 Main St., Bowling Green. Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Holidaygiftguide

A34 n Toledo Free Press

DECEMBER 12, 2010

By Kristen Rapin-Criswell

Toledo Free Press Special Sections Editor krapin@toledofreepress.com

Local shopping offers unique gifts for the women in your life. Whether you need a gift for a friend, sister, girlfriend, mother or a wife, Northwest Ohio stores provide gift options for all. “[Shopping local] helps the small businesses and your local community,” said Kelly Heuss, co-owner of Puttin’ on the Glitz. “You’re not going to find the things that are in your small boutiques and your small local stores in the big chain stores. It’s going to be completely unique stuff that other people aren’t going to find.”

Puttin’ on the Glitz

Puttin’ on the Glitz offers many unique and sassy items for women to share with their girlfriends. The store carries drink mixes in a bag, cheeky cookbooks, as well as wine glasses and Woozies, wine koozies, with fun sayings on them. “We try very hard to find things that are unique that no one else has in the area,” Heuss said. “We want re-

ally high-quality gifts that are the right price. A lot of the things we carry you won’t see anyplace else.” Outside the bridal items and Miche Bags, prices in the store range from $5 to $50, Heuss said. Puttin’ on the Glitz offers an opportunity for customers to register for holiday gifts. An individual can go online, download a gift registry and fill it out. Registries that are emailed back will be kept in a binder at the store. In addition, Puttin’ on the Glitz is offering a special guys’ night for men to do their holiday shopping. The store will have tailgate food as well as malefriendly music and a guys’ atmosphere. “We’re doing a guys’ night because generally the guys make it as far as the pink chair when they come in the store. So, once the women make out their wish list, the guys can come in shop together,” Heuss said. Miche Bags allow individuals to change their purses style at will, Heuss said. The base purse is basic black, with different magnetic option designs for the outside. n WOMEN CONTINUES ON A35

toledo free press photo by kristen rapin-criswell

Unique gift ideas for women featured in area shops

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DECEMBER 12, 2010 n WOMEN CONTINUED FROM A34 By unsnapping one design another can be substituted in a matter of seconds. The bags come in different sizes and Puttin’ on the Glitz offers deals for the more shells purchased. Prices range from $34.95 to $39 for base bags and $24.95 and up for shells. Similar to beaded bracelets such as Pandora or Trollbeads, DaVinci and Bauble Lulu Beads are much less expensive, Heuss said. Beads

for DaVinci and Bauble Lulu are just $6.99. Bauble Lulu beads can also be placed on necklaces, earrings and rings in addition to bracelets. Puttin’ on the Glitz is located at 120 W. South Boundary. For more information and store hours, visit www. puttinontheglitzstore.com.

Swank Gifts

When buying gifts for girlfriends, the most fun thing you can give them is something they’d love, but may not

buy themselves, said Julie Hartten, owner of Swank Gifts. “It may not be something they’d use every day. Maybe it’s a little bit pricey. Or it’s something that might sit in the closet for most of the year, but the time that they get it out they really love it,” Hartten said. Swank Gifts offers a number of items for women including jewelry, purses and decorative items as well as toys and stuffed animals for kids. The shop also carries local artists’ artwork,

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such as 3-D pieces, paintings, photography and jewelry. “We have a gal who does acrylic necklaces for us and they start at $22. No one will ever have another piece like it. Something from someone that’s made locally is nice as opposed to something made in China,” Hartten said. Some popular trends this year for women are two-tone necklaces and earrings, pearls and hot pink, Hartten said. Swank Gifts offers free gift wrapping and free delivery in Downtown Toledo. Gift certificates are also available for purchase. “We really try to be a service provider for those who work Downtown,” Hartten said. Most prices in the store aren’t more

than $50, Hartten said. Eternity scarves have been extremely popular this year, Hartten said. The one-piece scarf can be worn in three ways. Individuals can also add different pins to the scarves to dress them up. Scarves are $22.99. New shoe-shaped wine accessories are a fun gift for wine lovers and something someone might not normally buy themself, Hartten said. Different high heel shoes that hold a wine bottle upright are $29.99. Shoe-shaped wine stoppers are $12.99. Swank Gifts is located at 48 S. Saint Clair St. The store is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. n WOMEN CONTINUES ON A36

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n A35

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A36 n Toledo Free Press n WOMEN CONTINUED FROM A35

Lily’s at Levis

Lily’s at Levis offers “inspiration for the home and garden,” with a large selection of items. “People come in probably to feel good,” said owner Judy Church. “They like to come in because they just enjoy the atmosphere and because we’re always changing stuff up.” The store carries stock that varies

from candles, jewelry and wall hangings to planters and gazing balls. For the holidays Lily’s carries a number of different ornaments, home decorations and tin snowmen for outside. “We have such a large selection of unique items. So many shops don’t offer this large of a selection from modern to traditional. It’s something for everyone. You can get gifts for all girlfriends at once,” Church said. The boutique carries gifts for all

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price ranges, with items starting at $5 and up. In addition to merchandise, Lily’s offers complimentary gift wrapping and gift certificates. Lily’s is also happy to assist any men who are searching for gifts for their significant others. “We have the pulse of what the women like. If they ask we can help guide them to the perfect gift,” Church said. The most popular item at Lily’s is

its candles, Church said. The store has carried the candles for nine years and it’s the most common item it ships out. All candles come in a glass container and are $18. Candle scents include the most popular “It Must be Christmas” (100 percent pine smell), “Sleigh Ride” (a walk in the woods smell) and “Warm and Cozy” (scent with a cinnamon flair). Another popular gift at Lily’s is its jewelry boxes, Church said.

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At our Maumee location.

DON’T FORGET! Gift Certificates Make Great Stocking Stuffers!

“BIEN VENIDOS AMIGOS”

Don’t forget to grab WCM In-House Made Tom & Jerry Mix. Tom & Jerry Mix is a variation of egg nog, excellent with warm rum.

• Fresh Holiday Meats & Seafood • Fully Cooked Holiday Dinners • In-House Made Party Trays • In-House Made Gift Baskets • And Much, Much More!

Ask about our banquet facilities! Let us host your upcoming office party or holiday gathering!

Specializing in Mexican Food since 1955

The boxes vary in size with multiple compartments for earrings, necklaces and bracelets. Each box is painted with unique colors. The jewelry boxes are $45, $55 and $60, depending on size. Lily’s is located at 2110 Levis Commons Blvd, and is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. For more information about the store, visit lilysatlevis.com.

Contact Chef Bill for details or reservations at 419-794-4000.

Perfect Gift Idea for Any Food Lover!

www.waltchurchillsmarket.com (Visit our website for this weeks Walt’s Weekly Specials.) 26625 N. Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg Follow us on twitter @ waltchurchills

419.872.6900

Hours: Mon-Sun 7 a.m.– 10 p.m.

33320 Briarfield Blvd., Maumee

419.794.4000 4

HHours: Mon-Sat 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m. Sun 8 a.m.–9 p.m.

Effective 12/13/10 - 12/19/10 | We reserve the right to limit quantities. | No sales to vendors. | Not responsible for pictorial or typographical errors.

ComicS

DECEMBER 12, 2010 Solution, tips and computer program at www.sudoku.com

Games

Visit www.toledofreepress.com

n A37

BIFF & RILEY

BY JEFF PAYDEN

DIZZY

BY DEAN HARRIS

n ANSWERS FOUND ON A42

Third Rock

Almanac

n ANSWERS FOUND ON A48

By Elizabeth Hazel

Your Tarotgram and Horoscope

DEC. 12-18, 2010

Events: Mercury retrogrades back into Sagittarius (18th) Aries (March 21-April 19)

Libra (September 23-October 22)

Manifest Destiny. Critical issues crop up as the week begins; solutions are needed, but none are ready to launch. Some endings are inevitable midweek, compelling shifts to new people and patterns. The weekend brings the ball back into your court; dynamic conquests are afoot.

Total concentration. Monday brings highly intense events that can occupy the whole week. Better understanding can be gained Wednesday. People make outrageous suggestions after Thursday. Continue to pursue research; don’t settle for half-baked results.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Scorpio (October 23-November 21)

Shared history. Renewing structures is work in progress, but the past needs clean-up before forward movement. Emotions are turbulent after Thursday as others tug, demand,and drop out. There’s no free-fall if you’ve got alternatives and backup plans.

Social arbiter. Begin the week with extreme caution to avoid accidents and deflect quarrels. After Wednesday, you may need to make adjustments in planned events. Plan B may actually be an improvement, even if it takes right up to the last-minute to accomplish.

Gemini (May 21-June 21)

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

Bob’s your uncle. Financial and property matters can go awry as the week begins; implacable forces meet immovable objects. Carefully untangle the threads and clues midweek, and get information to eliminate unknowns. Results will be much better than expected.

Sparkling hope. Your life, work and personal patterns are in a cosmic blender now. Deal with urgent demands as the week begins; some people seem to be taking crazy pills. Turn to good friends and loved ones as the weekend arrives to partake of seasonal pleasures.

Cancer (June 22-July 22)

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

Seasonal migration. Partners can ruffle your feathers Monday. Hidden motives are discovered Wednesday, and there’s more to find. Your mood can strongly affect those around you this week, so embrace your hospitable, loving nature for the common good.

Detective work. You’re attempting to reorganize in the face of contradictory demands. Be open to suggestions, as they may prove invaluable down the road, but don’t lock into anything irrevocable yet. Consider your partner’s needs as the weekend arrives.

Leo (July 23-August 22)

Aquarius (January 20-February 18)

Welding torch. People expect impossible accomplishments as the week begins. Let them dream – Mercury is still retrograde. Get personal paperwork handled Wednesday, and watch for math errors Thursday. Diverse connections result in unexpected weekend meetings.Virgo

Shared duties. People may be yelling behind closed doors as the week starts; the ripple effect moves outward on Tuesday. Look up an old friend on Wednesday. Work for weekend events hastens after Thursday. You’re ready to enjoy it by Saturday night.

(August 23-September 22)

Pisces (February 19-March 20)

Canned goods. Re-evaluate your skill sets to identify best abilities and current desires. Repackaging may be necessary to get desired attention. Look for opportunities to impress others after Thursday. Coincidental meetings and talks can open unseen doors for you.

Luck magnet. As the week begins it feels like a world gone mad. Talk is cheap, and some clarity begins to emerge midweek. Personal relationships and priorities take priority after Thursday. Blend practical and emotional discussions during the weekend.

Elizabeth Hazel is a professional tarotist-astrologer and author. She gives readings every Wednesday at Attic on Adams above Manos Greek Restaurant. She may be contacted at ehazel@buckeye-express.com (c) 2010

ComicS

A38 n Toledo Free Press

TFP Crossword

by DAVE DeChristopher

ACROSS 1. Tiny taste 3. Cashew cousin 9. Lennon widow 10. Reduction...of, say, taxes 13. Chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s garb 15. Joad and Kettle 16. World Series champions in 1971 & 1979 22. Money dispenser 23. Sweet Southern favorite 25. Favorite at Mancyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Italian 28. Souvenir of a Hawaiian vacation 29. Persian Gulf native 33. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Inglourious Basterdsâ&#x20AC;? star 36. Prevailed 37. Resourceful heroine of childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s literature 41. French water 42. He lost the recent election to Mike 44. Vitamins and minerals 48. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Support Our Troopsâ&#x20AC;? assn. 49. 1986 John Hughes hit 50. Winning tic-tac-toe line DOWN 1. Shrimp dish 2. Credit cards 3. Conifer 4. Piggy 5. ---- Arbor 6. Army bed

7. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Time ---- Bottleâ&#x20AC;? 8. Military vehicles 11. Mud Hens swinger 12. East Lansing campus 14. Change the price of 17. Prohibit 18. Anglerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activity 19. Largest flatfish 20. Pocket bread 21. Real estate ad abbr. 23. Islamabadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s land: abbr. 24. Alias initials 26. Put two and two together 27. Suitable 30. Elk 31. ---- Jima 32. Heavy weight 34. Rainbow 35. Olive stuffing 37. Improve, as business 38. Paddle 39. ---- King Cole 40. Relish and bravado 43. Seuss catâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trademark 44. Rapa ---45. Fleet org. 46. Pith helmet 47. Printer fluids n ANSWERS FOUND ON A42

DECEMBER 12, 2010

FAMILY PRACTICE

AS EASY

Games

Rugrats and old folks

s is the tradition in our house, I ventured out with all had proudly shouted his own veiled derision at a mother three of my children in search of a card and special attempting to perform a similar feat at his grocery store. treats for my husbandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday. It would be much A number of people had quickly chimed in with typed apfaster and infinitely easier to take on such a quest solo, but plause for his valiant act of disdain. I also flashed back a few years to when my husband teaching my children about the importance of celebrating the life of another human being seems reason enough to ac- and I used to drop off an elderly friend at the same grocery cept the extra workload. Although I admit that I have a soft store every other Sunday. As her aged hips and legs would struggle to make their way from our car to spot for double coupons and â&#x20AC;&#x153;10 for $10â&#x20AC;? sales, the asphalt, people waiting behind us in the I try to at least patronize our smaller, local narrow parking lot would honk with the grocery stores when my shopping list is more same impatience they now had for my chilconcentrated. The idea of walking shorter rows dren. Has a lack of social tolerance for the of fewer aisles when wrangling children on a youngest and oldest among us really become focused outing is no doubt also appealing. not only acceptable, but applaudable? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mission: Daddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Birthday Surpriseâ&#x20AC;? There is a sign in the hall of my daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seemed like the ideal time to go for a â&#x20AC;&#x153;buy preschool that reads, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The expert in anything localâ&#x20AC;? shopping experience, so away we went. was once a beginner.â&#x20AC;? Semi-rambunctious Our first stop was the birthday card section. Inchildren in store aisles are not uncontrolled stead of having to navigate the multiple aisles of Shannon SZYPERSKI inconveniences, they are beginners. The idea almost every card imaginable like I do at bigger stores, I welcomed our locally-owned grocery storeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more that they should be kept at home until they can flawlessly meet compact greeting card offering. For starters, it is much easier public behavior standards is like expecting a football player not to locate the homes of the wedding and get well cards my chil- to pick up a ball until he is Super Bowl worthy or a musician not to pick up an instrument until she is guaranteed not to skip any dren zealously mistake for â&#x20AC;&#x153;Happy Birthday Dadâ&#x20AC;? cards. Cleverly for the store, but unfortunately for my bustling notes. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s practice that makes perfect, not avoidance. Our most senior citizens, on the other hand, are surely tribe, the greeting card section was small enough to be housed on an end cap that nearly every entering shopper passes by. De- experts by now, but the aging process has led them full circle spite our best efforts to keep ourselves contained, simply having right back to feeling like beginners at times. The body and/or four people in small quarters forced us to be somewhat ma- mind they had mastered long ago through years of practice neuvered around as we perused. In spite of my own attempts starts to return them to sometimes living life with a child-like to be courteous and apologetic, we were immediately met with awkwardness. Despite their veteran status, they are in need of impatience and intolerance. Of the several shoppers who had our patience, understanding and occasional assistance. A civilized society hinges on if and how we embrace those to sidestep to get around us during the five minutes it took us to make our decision, only one offered us understanding. An- unlike ourselves. Refusing to save a cultural space for our chilother did say, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Let me help you!â&#x20AC;? as she pushed our mini-cart dren and our elderly is perhaps the most basic and critical farther out of her way, but her verbal exclamation point was no of social failures. It not only illustrates a loss of respect and appreciation for where we have come from and where we are doubt filled more with derision than sincerity. As we tried to traverse aisle after aisle as invisibly as going, it places our general sense of humanity in jeopardy. possible while gathering up a few more of our heroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite treats, I remembered that a kid-less old high school Shannon and her husband Michael are raising three children friend had commented online earlier in the day that he in Sylvania. E-mail her at letters@toledofreepress.com.

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TV LISTINGS

DECEMBER 12, 2010 Sunday Morning 8 am ABC 13 CBS 11 FOX 36 NBC 24 PBS 30 A&E BRAVO COM DISN ESN FAM FOOD HGTV LIF MTV TBS TCM TNT USA WTO5

8:30

December 12, 2010

MOVIES

9 am