11/23 special needs issue

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Page 1: 11/23 Special Needs Issue

Open House!Check out these 6November Open Houses

our 22nd year connecting with families

Mama LaScola’sLet's Talk about Mama's Italian Cooking

p11

p18

p26

FREE NOVEMBER 2013FREE NOVEMBER 2013

Prepare to be inspired!Meet our

"Helping Heroes"

Prepare to be inspired!Meet our

"Helping Heroes"

Page 2: 11/23 Special Needs Issue

2 • November 2013 • www.toledoparent.com

Page 3: 11/23 Special Needs Issue

3www.toledoparent.com • November 2013 •

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4 • November 2013 • www.toledoparent.com

6 community snapshots

7 what’s briefly happening

8 new kids on the block

9 tween the lines

28 calendar — compiled by Marisa Rubin

31 marketplace

departments

Toledo’s Award-Winning Parent Newspaper Volume 22 • Issue 11 • NOVEMBER 2013

commentary22 mother mayhem In need of Nana A woman of quiet strength — by Mary Helen Darah

24 parent profile Live, Laugh, Love and Learn Dr. Kevin Miller: Superintendent, Father of four and volunteer — by Erin Marsh

26 food fight Third time’s a charm Mama LaScola offers new dining experience in old school atmosphere — by Mary Helen Darah

Follow us on...

recycle this paperFor our children's future ...

p 11

Like most high schoolers, our cover girl Bethany Wissler, 19, tried to shoo her mother, Kathy Wissler, away when she stepped in during the photoshoot to make sure Bethany’s tiara was still pinned securely on her head. She likes talking to her friends at cheerleading practice, seems to know everyone at school and even has a boyfriend. Yet Bethany has Down Syndrome. The sweet and sassy senior defied another odd when she was crowned Whitmer High School’s Homecoming Queen on Oct. 4 after Bethany’s best friend, Grace Haskins, rallied the students to vote for her. “It’s a good feeling when people see the good person and look past the disability,” Kathy said. “She has a bright future.” For now Bethany is enjoying the respect she has earned from her peers. “It’s good to be queen,” she said.

Bethany Wissler, 19, ToledoWhitmer HS 2013

Homecoming QueenGet to know Bethany

Trivia, lunch polls, contests and weekly giveaways.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK TOWIN!

Local heroes work to improve quality of life for children with special needs

6 schools openingtheir doors to sharewhat they offer.SCHOOL

OPEN

HOUSES p 18Win Cool Stuff!

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5www.toledoparent.com • November 2013 •

Adams Street Publishing Co.

Besides turkey...What’s your favorite Thanksgiving dish?

Also publishers of: Audited by Member

Advertising/General Info For advertising and general information, call 419/244-9859 or fax 419/244-9871. E-mail ads to [email protected]. Deadline for advertising copy 2 p.m. Friday before publication.

Toledo City Paper subscriptions are available by mail for $28/quarterly or $75 per year at Toledo City Paper, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, Ohio 43604. One copy free per person per week; extra copies $1 each. Persons tak-ing copies for any reason other than personal use are subject to prosecution.

Letters to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are subject to edit- ing, and should include the writer’s full name and phone number. Any letter submitted to the editor or publisher may be printed at the pub-lisher’s discretion in issues subsequent to its receipt.

Entire contents © 2013 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without written permission of the publisher.

Publisher/Editor in ChiefCollette Jacobs ([email protected]) Green beAn cAsserole

Co-publisher/Chief Financial OfficerMark I. Jacobs ([email protected]) sweet potAto cAsserole wIth melted mArshmAllows

EditorialAssignment Editor:Nadine Akra ([email protected])meAt pIes

Calendar:Marisa Rubin ([email protected])mAshed sweet potAtoes

Social Media Specialist:Brandon Doriot ([email protected])monkey breAd

Staff Writer:Griffin Messer-Kruse ([email protected])pumpkIn Ale

Contributing Writers:Mary Helen Darah, Erin Marsh, Sue Lovett, Russell Axon, Christine Halliday, Jeff Berry

Art/ProductionArt Director:Leah Foley ([email protected])crAnberry wAlnut stuffInG

Graphic Design: Brittney Koehl ([email protected])bAGels from bArry’s bAGel’sMegan Anderson ([email protected])broccolI sAlAdJameson Staneluis ([email protected]) pumpkIn pIeKyle Iwanicki: ([email protected])wIne

AdvertisingSales Manager:Aubrey Hornsby ([email protected])mAshed potAtoes ‘n GrAvy

Sales Coordinator:Emily Gibb ([email protected]) I Am countInG down the dAys to my mom’s sweet potAtoes!

Customer Service Representative:Lydia Schaefer ([email protected])cheesy potAtoes

Account Executives:Sharon Kornowa ([email protected]) cAndIed yAmsSam Rotroff ([email protected])mAcAronI cAsseroleAlexis Vickery ([email protected])homemAde pumpkIn pIeKeri Sadowski ([email protected])crAnberry sAuce on turkey!Allison Walters ([email protected])homemAde stuffInG

AdministrationAccounting: Robin Armstrong ([email protected])broccolI whIz

Distribution: Michelle Flanagan ([email protected])creAmed cAulIflower

Publisher’s Assistant: Jan Thomas ([email protected])roAsted brussel sprouts

Follow us on Facebook, TwiTTer and PinTeresT:facebook.com/toledoareaparenttwitter.com/toledoparent pinterest.com/adamsstreetpubl

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6 • November 2013• www.toledoparent.com

Charlie Sarver, 6, Toledo

Charlie Mitchell, 2 mo., Sylvania

Mikey Hill, 9, Perrysburg

Jackson McNutt, 5, Perrysburg, OH

Cyncere Wingate, 10, Toledo

Nicholas Fulton, 7, Toledo

Dylan Schuh, 8, Perrysburg

Emma Carle. 5, Toledo

A special loveLocal children with special needs shine bright.

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7www.toledoparent.com • November 2013 •

Dylan Schuh, 8, Perrysburg what’s

happening...

Fisher-Price Little People show

Don’t miss the new interactive show starring Fisher-Price’s Little People at the Museum of Science building within the Toledo Zoo. Eddie, Tessa, Sofie, Koby, Mia and their teacher Miss Hugg will be there to sing, dance, and interact with your little one. The Fisher-Price Little People Show is being held Saturday, November 9 and Sunday, No-vember 10. Show times are held at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. The show is free with paid admission to the Toledo Zoo. The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. Visit toledozoo.org for more information or call 419-385-5721.

briefly

Extra Terrestrials coming to Lourdes Appold Planetarium

brieflybriefly

Is there intelligent life on other plan-ets? Do UFO’s really exist? The Search for Extra Terrestrial Intelligence (SETI) is Lourdes’ Appold Planetarium’s new show that explores all sides to these questions and more on Saturdays, No-vember 9 and 16. All shows begin at 7:30pm and will run approximately one hour. A Q&A session will follow. Shows at the Appold Planetarium are limited to 50 attendees and often

sell out. $5 for adults, $4 for children under 12 and Lourdes students with student ID. For more information or to purchase tickets, email Dr. Laura Megeath, Appold Planetarium Coor-dinator, at [email protected] or call 419-517-8897. Visit lourdes.edu/planetarium for additional infor-mation. 6832 Convent Blvd, Sylvania.or visit toledomuseum.org.

Compiled by Jeff Berry

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8 • November 2013• www.toledoparent.com

The Grape Leaf Express Jets its way to PerrysburgBy Christine Holliday

OCTOBER 23 - November 21

By Sue Lovett

The first word out of your Scorpio child is ”whozat” (who is that). They will pick up every rock to see what is under it. They take their toys apart to see how they are made. They are curious about the human body. Scorpios love magic and surprises. They are fascinated by learning and are excellent students. Mathematics can be their favorite subject. Give them microscopes and magnifying glasses and they are occupied for hours.

As the weather gets cooler they enjoy picking up leaves so they can see all of the different sizes and shapes. In November they may have difficulty concentrating so the parents need to be patient with them. A surprise birth-day party delights the Scorpio child. The key word is “surprise” to keep them happy. They may be a little obstinate when there is an eclipse in their sign on the 13 of November.

KIDS HOROSCOPE

Grape leaf lovers and fattoush fans have a new Perrysburg location to satisfy their cravings. Grape Leaf Express has opened a third location, and owners Ran-da and Ahmed Jarouche (with franchise owner Arbid Wehbi) promise the same generous helpings and authentic flavors as those served at the franchise’s Holland and Toledo locations.

“We are both Lebanese Americans, and we both love the food,” Randa ex-plains.

“My husband worked at the Grape Leaf Diner, and found that the taste of grape leaves followed him when he left. I grew up with a mom who cooked lavish Lebanese meals, so I am crazy about the food, too.”

The menu will be identical to that of the Monroe Street location—sandwiches, soup, grape leaves, and what Randa describes as “the best hummus in town.” She recommends the fresh fruit smoothies and the desserts (cheesecakes, crème caramel, rice pudding, baklava), and says, “We have food for children who aren’t sure they will like the food, and I encourage parents to have their children give it a try. It is healthy food and it is delicious. Especially popular is the Lavash Express, a hefty concoction of chicken, garlic sauce, pickles, and fries rolled in a multigrain flatbread and toasted. Jarouche boasts a bit, “Most customers find it too big to eat in one sitting, and take it home to enjoy later!”

Catering is available, and the website grapeleafexpress.com features coupons for lunch or dinner. Grape Leaf Express is located

at 27112 Oakmede, Perrysburg. Phone 419 931-9944; Hours Sun.-Thurs. 11am-9pm, Fri. and Sat. 11am-10pm.

Toledo favorite, The Grape Leaf brings its mix of Lebanese and American food to Perrysburg

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advice for parents with children 10-16

Anya WojtkowiakScoring a victory for girls, one yard at a time

by Mary Helen Darah

“I never actually watched football on TV but always wanted to play,” says Sylvania McCord Junior High School student Anya Wojtkowiak. “I really liked play-ing football in the yard with neighbors and wanted to try it. I kept begging my mom to let me try out for the team and she wouldn’t let me until I promised her that I would wear something nice for picture day.” To her mother’s surprise, Anya dressed up for her school photo and the rest is history. Toledo Area Parent talked with Anya about the ups and downs of being the sole female on her Sylvania Recreation 6th and 7th grade football team.

I understand you and your mother made a deal regarding your picture day attire. How did looking like a lovely young lady for a photo lead to wear-ing cleats and a helmet?“I went to my school’s orientation and they had flyers about the Rec football team so I took one. I spoke with one of the coaches who was there that night and he asked me to come for conditioning. I showed up and when the coaches started picking teams, I got picked.”

Is playing on an all-male team tougher than playing in your backyard?“It’s a lot harder. I had to learn all the different posi-tions even though I am a lineman. Also, no one is easy on me because I am a girl. I get bruised a lot.”

How do you deal with getting hit?“I hit back!”

Do your teammates except you as an equal?“At the beginning the boys were skeptical about me being on the team. I don’t know exactly when that changed but I think it was when I proved that I was helpful and a good player. I am not just standing on the sidelines and watching. I would say I get to play for almost the whole game. When we have a lot of injured players I get to play longer.”

Do you feel that being female has held you back in any way?“No, not all. I wish more girls would play football. I get support from people in the stands too. I had a really good tackle and three of my classmates were cheering for me. It was so cool. I actually get a harder time from girls than boys about being on the team. On Fridays we wear our jerseys to school. So many girls ask why I would ever play football. I tell them I play because it’s fun.”

What does the future hold?“I play for the Sylvania Rec and there is a weight limit. If you are over 115 lbs. you cannot run with the ball. I recovered the ball from a fumble and I had to take a knee. Next year if the McCord coach asks me, I could play for them and there are no weight restrictions.”

Is there anything you want to say to your teammates?Yes, we are close even though we don’t socialize off the field. I would thank them for supporting me. I would rather be playing football than cheering on the sidelines. I’m just really glad I have a chance to play.

Fun Facts about the Bruised BeautyHobbies: Basketball, lacrosse and reading (she read over 50 books last summer)When She Grows Up: An environmental scientist and shes hopes to be the first female to play in the NFL or, even better- play for Notre DamePeople She Admires: Amelia Earhart and the first girl to play college football, Ashley BakerHopes to Attend: New York University

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Q: Many kids who have siblings with spe-cial needs feel as if they have had to grow up faster and have greater responsibilities in the family. Has this been your experience?

A: You definitely learn a lot of life les-sons at an earlier age that you wouldn’t if you had a normal brother or sister. I remember one time when I was six years old and I didn’t understand what was going on. My brother Alex had a seizure. All the lights were on in the house at 12:30 at night. I had to go outside and be the one who waved to the rescue squad to show them where we were. I now know what to do when Alex has a seizure. My Dad and my older brother Taylor taught me how to deal with it.

Q: What is the most difficult thing about having a brother with special needs?

A: Well, a lot of people would think it is having to cut back on my social life but really it is how other people treat Alex. Even though he is my older brother, I feel like I have to defend him. In the sixth and seventh grade I didn’t say much about him if anyone said anything. Now I do. I am trying to be mature about this issue and I let people know what my family and I deal with. I have that big brother protec-tive thing even though I am younger. I

have to have his back and stick up for him since he can’t stick up for himself. When people talk about him they don’t see him through my eyes. If you had a brother like I have you would see things differently and be more thankful for what you have.

Q: Speaking of your social life, has it been affected by Alex?

A: Sometimes I can’t go out on weekends because I have to stay home and watch him [Alex] and I do not have as many social activities as kids with ‘normal’ siblings, but this is my duty. I put my family be-fore my friends. Sometimes I get mad and disappointed when I have to change my plans, but in the end it is the family that is most important.

Q: It appears Alex has an extremely dif-ficult time speaking. How do the two of you communicate?

A: You kind of know what he is think-ing. He can look at me and I can know what he wants. He definitely has a ‘more chips’ and an ‘I’m thirsty’ face. Sometimes

other people don’t get him. We were at the airport once and every time Alex saw a plane he would say ‘DISNEY’. As his brother, I know he associates planes with heading to Disneyland. We also watch movies, color on the porch, and he loves to swing at Olander Park. He also likes it when we drive

around and go to McDonald’s and he is a big fan of the Disney Store.

Q: Your older brother Taylor moved to Lou-isiana. Do you find it more challenging since his departure? What are your future plans?

A: I have had to step up to the plate since Taylor left. My parents have been dealing with our situation for a long time and they know how to handle it. I plan on going away to school, maybe BGSU. I

want to have some space but still want to be close enough to help my family.

Q: What advice do you have for other kids dealing with siblings with special needs? What can people do to help kids in your situ-ation?

A: I would tell them they are not alone. There are lots of people going through it. They will look back and realize this is truly a blessing. As far as helping out, people can just be there to listen and tell them it’s going to be OK.

Q: Any final thoughts?

A: Yeah, my family does a really good job dealing with Alex. We have learned many aspects of life that other people will never get the opportunity to learn. We have all put a lot of time and effort into Alex and he is growing up to be a really great guy.

John plays football, baseball, and runs track for Southview High School and is involved in the Christian youth group at school. John hopes that people will look at his brother Alex (who turns 23 in April), and others like him, through different eyes after reading this.

Special Needs Continued on pg. 13

With over six million children living with disabilities in the U.S. the obstacles facing kids

with disabilities are clear but the issues”typical youth” face are often difficult to understand.

Toledo Area Parent sat down with John Malak, a 16-year-old sophomore at Sylvania

Southview High School, to discuss his relationship with his brother Alex.

By Mary Helen Darah

The Special Needs Guide

John (right), Taylor (standing) and Alex (seated) pose for a family portrait.

SibshopsSaturday, November 2nd

Many brothers and sisters have feelings that are difficult to express, even to a friend: sadness that a sister can’t learn things that others take for granted; anger when a brother’s behavior pre-vents the family from doing things other families do; or the special pride when a sibling with a disability learns a basic but important life skill after months or years of practice. At Sibshop, they’ll share these feelings with others who truly understand. 10am-1pm. Alternate Learning Cen-ter, 3939 Wrenwood, Toledo. 419-214-3066.

siblingsupport.org. Free. Additional meetings are set for Nov. 2, Jan. 11, Feb. 1 and March 1.

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The Special Needs Guide

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After working closely with 3 children with autism for 13 years, Sandy Langford re-alized the need for childcare services for autistic children. According to Langford, kids are often asked to leave traditional daycare around 11 or 12 years old. She explains, “It’s common for some kids with autism to have certain behaviors that some day care programs aren’t just ‘okay’ accepting them— sometimes the kids just act out.” She clarifies, “some kids on the high end of the spectrum can certainly stay home, but others cannot be home for safety reasons.”

Langford wrote a grant to provide childcare services geared toward autistic chil-dren ages 12-22, which was something that had not yet been done. She created The Self Reliance Center to provide a “safe place where kids can be themselves and not worry about being stared at...or kicked out.” Langford also makes every effort to ac-commodate working parents; the Center is open until 6pm during the week, and all day during the summer and on school vacation days. While the work is challenging, Langford says that “just to be able to be around these kids on a daily basis” makes it worth it. She continues, “Sometimes I just have a busy, hectic day, and one kid in particular will come up to me and say ‘I love you’ and lay his head on my shoulder. That’s the icing on top of the cake.”

Self Reliance Center of the Toledo Regional Autism Network. 2040 W. Central Avenue, Toledo. Visit http://www.greatlakesautism.org/toledoregionalautismnetwork/SRC/

or call 419-291-7020 for more information.

Special Needs Continued on pg. 14

The Special Needs Guide

Sandy LangfordDirector and Founder of the Self Reliance Center

“Helping Heroes” is an understatement when it comes to introducing this group of people who dedi-cate their time to helping children with special needs. From teachers to program directors, there is no short-age here of true heroes! With capes on their backs, they tell us about their most rewarding jobs, how they got started and what keeps them going. By Erin Marsh

Sandy Langford (right) poses with one of her students

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14 • November 2013 • www.toledoparent.com

As an educator for 26 years, Mary Schoen was sur-prised recently by a question from a little girl at the school where she works: “When are you gonna be-come a real teacher?” Schoen laughed and explained to the girl that she is a real teacher; she’s an interven-tion specialist, which means she travels from class-room to classroom to work with students instead of having her own classroom (thus the reason the little girl thought she wasn’t a “real” teacher).

Of her 26 years in education, Schoen has spent the last 15 working directly with students with spe-cial needs. She travels to different general education classes, servicing language arts, math, and reading for students in grades 6-8 at McKinley School. She helps modify assignments/tests by making them more accessible to the student, “tailoring [the

work] to the student’s own skill level and working from there.” She also works individually with the kids in the classroom, helping teachers in any way that she can, and takes the kids back to her office as-needed for small group sessions.

Schoen says teaching students with special needs means “you have to be fast on your feet because...you may need to quickly switch gears in order to deal with the skill that the student is trying to learn.” Schoen’s ultimate goal for her students is “for them to feel more confident in themselves and advocate for themselves to reach their highest potential.” All of the daily struggles and challenges are worth it “when you’re teaching and the light bulb goes off... you see that the kids ‘get’ it.”

Mary Schoen

Sarah OsbornAfter teaching young children (kindergarten to

second grade), Sarah Osborn has many humorous anecdotes, but her most recent favorite is the motiva-tion of one young student who repeatedly exclaims, “I want to make Sponge Bob happy!”

Osborn explains that she became an intervention specialist, in part, because of her upbringing: “I was brought up with a sister who has special needs--she’s on the autism spectrum--and that taught me to see things through her eyes, to appreciate her perspec-tive, and to appreciate the wisdom of somebody who thinks differently.” Osborn points out that not all of the children with whom she works have special needs; she works with many young children who might need additional help in math and/or reading. For reading

interventions, Osborn works closely with their lit-eracy coach, Joyce Calmes, and they make reading fun and engaging through the use of “game-based learning to promote pre-literacy skills” (particularly at the kindergarten level). According to Osborn, “We do things like mystery boxes and rhyme aways. The students really enjoy it, and we enjoy it, and if we’re having fun, then the students are, too.” Osborn con-tinues that the most rewarding part of her job is “to see the children, especially kindergartners and first graders, have those ‘ah-ha’ moments when they can sound out a word, or get excited about a book, or become engaged with reading. The spark of read-ing is amazing.”

The Special Needs Guide

Sarah Osborn (right) with literacy coach Joyce Calmes

Shannon Twiggs has known that she wanted to work with children with special needs since she was in the 5th grade. She worked with a young man with special needs, who was about her age at that time, and from that moment on, her career path was de-termined.

Like many teachers, Twiggs works during her school break during the summer; she runs Camp Cricket, a summer camp for students with and with-out special needs. She trains and provides staff for other summer programs, including Maumee Val-ley, the YMCA, and the MetroParks, so that she and her staff can “facilitate inclusion programs, provide support...and support children in the community.”

Twiggs says that the toughest part of managing Camp Cricket is “making sure that I have the correct amount of staff and support for all of the agencies, and making sure that the agencies are being provided the support [that] they need.” However, Twiggs loves “working with the families and seeing how happy they are.” It satisfies her to know that the kids are “engag-ing with their peers, and the kids come home and talk about how much fun they had and how they made new friends.” For children with special needs, making new friends can be difficult, and Twiggs recounts a touch-ing memory of how one parent was so excited that her child made his first friend. The mom exchanged phone numbers with the other parent to schedule a playdate for their kids.

Shannon Twiggs

Intervention Specialist at McKinley School

Intervention Specialist at Hiawatha Elementary School

Director of Camp Cricket and Inclusion Specialist for Washington Public Schools

Mary Schoen with her grandson, Dexter

Camp Cricket director Shannon Twiggs

Special Needs Continued on pg. 16

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The Special Needs Guide

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The Special Needs Guide

Adopt AmericA Network1500 N. Superior St. • 419-726-5100adoptamericanetwork.comAdopt America is committed to finding permanent, loving homes for special needs children. Through a national network of agencies and volunteers, they’ve helped over 4,000 children find new families.

Autism AcAdemy of LeArNiNg219 Page St. • 419-865-7487theautismacademy.orgThe Autism Academy is a year-round public school for students with spectrum autism disorder. Focusing on developing a higher quality of life and promoting independence through subjects like academics, behavior, and daily living and vocational skills.

cApAbLe kids, LLc2728 N. Holland-Sylvania • [email protected] Kids helps children with autism and other developmental disabilities cultivate communication skills and learn-ing needs through applied behavior analysis, group interactions and one-on-one sessions.

coLLeeN oLsoN, md pediAtriciANMercy Pediatrics - Maumee1657 Holland Rd., Suite A • 419-794-2180Mercy Family Physicians - Perrysburg1103 Village Square, Suite 202419-872-3243For more than 12 years, Colleen’s relaxed and caring approach has en-couraged parents to ask questions and discuss concerns about their child’s health.

dowN syNdrome AssociAtioN of greAter toLedo PO Box 298, Sylvania • [email protected] • dsagt.orgA support group that promotes inclu-sion, advocacy, awareness, education and parental support to anyone that has a loved one with Down Syndrome.

greeN optioNs for Autism of LucAs couNty 1660 Amesbury Rd. • 419-250-0401facebook.com/greenoptionsforautismoflucascountyGOAL provides a day/vocational program for young adults with autism and other developmental disabilities to develop job skills, an entrepreneurial spirit, and self-determined job opportuni-ties. Open house Thursday, December 5, from 5-8pm.

HArbor beHAviorAL6629 W. Central Ave. • 419-475-4449harbor.org Harbor Behavioral offers services such as family medicine, adult day care ser-vices for individuals with developmental disabilities, and vocational programs for individuals with barriers to employment.

Hope LeArNiNg AcAdemy4234 Monroe St. • 419-297-6313info@hopelearning academy.orghopelearningacademy.orgHope Learning Academy is a K-8 school dedicated to serving students who need to learn in a non-traditional classroom setting. This student-centered community is driven by rigorous social-skills, art infusion and sensory integration.

LucAs couNty boArd of mrdd1154 Larc Lane • 419-380-4000lucasdd.orgThe Lucas County Board of Developmen-tal Disabilities embraces the philosophy of self-determination, an approach for planning individualized services and support. Supporting eligible individuals and their families in developing a vision for their future based on individual strengths, interests and choices.

NAmi (National Alliance for Mental Illness)Mary Finch, Office ManagerNAMI of Greater Toledo2753 W Central Ave. 419-243-1119www.namitoledo.orgNAMI of Greater Toledo offers FREE support groups, education classes and advocacy for individuals and their fam-ily members who are living with mental illness.

mercy Autism services3521 Briarfield Blvd., [email protected]. Mercy Autism Services emphasizes evidence-based autism intervention. The only program in the Northwest Ohio region that utilizes applied behavior analysis, occupational therapy, speech therapy, as well as the P.L.A.Y. Project as core program concepts.

prescribed pediAtric ceNter1932 Birchwood Ave. • 419-530-6726prescribedpediatrics.orgPrescribed Pediatrics promotes optimal physical, mental and social health for infants and children with special needs by providing family-centered, physician-prescribed, medical day treatment and medically enhanced child care.

rms fitNess5151 Monroe St. • 419-851-0074teamrms.comRMS Fitness provides recreational sup-port and opportunities to persons with developmental disabilities, including ex-ercise classes, yoga, health assessments, Wii games, cooking classes and more.

seNsAtioNAL kids dAycAre & LeArNiNg ceNter6060 Merger Dr., Holland 419-724-5434info@sensationalkidsdaycare.comsensationalkidsdaycare.comSensational Kids offers a quality educa-tional learning center that looks at each child as an individual. Offering therapy programs from our physical, occupation-al and speech therapists, who also help to develop programs so that the children are working on current goals.

suNsHiNe iNc.7223 Maumee Western Rd., Maumee419-865-0251sunshineincnwo.comSunshine is a non-profit organization that provides services to people with developmental disabilities in Toledo and across Northwest Ohio.

superscHAde’s fouNdAtioN1024 Gloucester Dr. • 419-392-8727Superschade’s Foundation works with other local organizations and businesses to benefit children and families with special needs, as well as educate the community about developmental dis-abilities.

toLedo pubLic scHooLs420 E. Manhattan Blvd. • 419-671-8200tps.orgToledo Public Schools strive to provide equal opportunities and assistance for students with developmental disabilities, offering multiple programs to pinpoint potential challenges and provide special education.

toLedo visioN tHerApy2600 N. Reynolds Rd., Suite 103B419-578-4322toledovisiontherapy.comIn addition to providing a wide variety of optometry-related service, Toledo Vision Therapy also offers services for special needs patients, including exami-nations and vision therapy.

wood couNty boArd of mrdd11160 E. Gypsy Lane Rd., Bowling Green419-352-5115wood.oh.networkofcare.org/mhThe Wood County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Dis-abilities offers comprehensive programs and events with the goal of improving the quality of life for children and adults with special needs.

wood LANe1921 E. Gypsy Lane Rd., Bowling Green419-352-5115woodlane.usCreated by families for families, Wood Lane is a one-stop resource center for information, programs and contacts for persons with developmental disabilities. Their mission is to support persons and families living with developmental dis-abilities in living full, unhindered lives.

speciAL Needs directory

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The Special Needs Guide

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SCHOOL

OPEN

HOUSES

Special Advertising Section

We gathered some open house events and visitation opportunities to assist you in choosing the right learning environment for your child. Before you know it, you won’t be bundling your kids up for winter anymore; it will be time for the next school year to start! Don’t miss a chance to plan a school visit! Look around, observe, take notes and ask questions.

Our students excel academically, spiritually and socially. Our scantron testing results soar above other local schools and our students are given unique and extraordinary opportunities to explore arts and academics. Stop by and so how inspiring a Franciscan education can be! Open House Dates: Middle School Sunday, November 17, 12pm – 3pm; Preschool, Kindergarten Connection & Kindergarten Sunday, January 26, 12pm – 3pm; All School (PreK – Grade 8) March 2, 12pm – 3pm.

Franciscan Academy of Lourdes University5335 Silica Dr., Sylvania419-885-3273www.franciscanacademy.org

continued on pg. 20

Tour our campus, meet our teachers, find out the latest educational trends and learn more about the NDA spirit and nurturing environment from student guides on Sunday, November 10 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meet athletic coaches and teams to find out why the Eagles have won the All Sports Award for 10 years in a row!

Notre Dame Academy 3535 W. Sylvania Avenue419-475-9359www.nda.org

Central Catholic is a co-educational college preparatory school that prepares students to excel academically, mature spiritually and grow socially. By intentionally mirroring our ever-changing world, Central Catholic prepares students to be adaptive thinkers comfortable in the global community. Learn more by attending the upcoming Open House on Sunday, November 17 from 12 to 3 p.m.

Central Catholic High School 2550 Cherry St. 419-255-2280www.centralcatholic.org

Mark your calendar for our Preschool - Grade 12 open house! Visit our beautiful 75-acre wooded campus and discover why Maumee Valley is the first choice for families who want an educational experience that supports, stretches, and prepares students for their best opportunities. Open House is on Sunday, November 3 from 1-3 p.m.

Maumee Valley Country Day School1715 S. Reynolds Rd.419-381-1313www.mvcds.org

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Special Advertising Sectioncontinued from pg. 18

Learn all about the advantages of a Jesuit education by attending the St. John’s Jesuit Open House on Sunday, November 10 from 11-3 p.m. Meet our students and faculty and find out why St. John’s Jesuit is the premier school for young men in Grades 6-12 in Northwest Ohio.

St. John’s Jesuit High School 5901 Airport Hwy419-865-5743 • www.sjjtitans.org

At St. Joseph School Sylvania, being “in the middle” signals a time of increasing academic challenge and spiritual growth. Come find out what we have to offer on Sunday, November 3 from 11:30 a.m.– 2:00 p.m.. St Joseph School’s East campus is located at 6516 Ravine Road, Sylvania.

St. Joseph School5411 Main St., Sylvania419-882-6670 ext. 345www.stjosephschoolsylvania.org

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In need of NanaA woman of quiet strength

By Mary Helen Darah

Sometimes, if you are lucky enough, you have some-one in your posse whose strengths are your weaknesses. In my case, the woman who often “shows me the light”-and how to properly accessorize-is Nana. She’s been a steady presence in my life since day one. Her husband, has known my Dad since childhood and their friend-ship, along with the friendships between their families, continues to expand to this day. Nana is my spare tire. I know she is there if I ever need her to get me up and moving again on my often bumpy road.

Cool itYou wouldn’t think it by gazing upon this quietly

elegant, statuesque woman, but she is the go-to girl in a crisis. When events happen that would throw lesser women into therapy, Nana rises to the occasion. For my wedding day, I splurged and purchased a lacy pair of stockings with full knowledge that as a kid my mea-surements never fit on a pediatrician’s growth chart and that the person responsible for writing the information on nylon packages that clearly state “For women 5’4” to 6’”is a big fat LIAR. I hoisted them up in preparation to go down the aisle when I discovered the crotch was six inches lower than it should be. Without blinking, Nana gently, but firmly helped me remove them and told me not to perspire about little things (AKA don’t sweat the small stuff). I could see her out of my peripheral vision stretching those suckers with the force of a Ninja warrior before calmly returning them to me. Miraculously, she was able to get me four more inches. In a world before SPANX, I was eternally grateful.

She is also the only woman I know who can keep a white linen blouse crisply clean while vacationing in

the Canadian wilderness. This was her attire when my daughter fell off the deck hitting-I swear-the only jag-ged rock capable of damage. As blood was dripping on her once white blouse, she calmly reassured Lauren that even though she might end up with a scar, she would still one day go to her prom.

Nana also has a way of keeping my “reactive” father at bay. She is the only person I know that can get away with a “Jim just chill out”. She is also smart enough to know when distraction is the better option and has a bril-liant way of enticing him into conversation while I deal with everything from a plate of lasagna one of the kids flipped behind their stove to a lizard on the loose.

“Behind every great man, there is a woman” or at times, a woman rolling her eyes. Nana also manages to keep up with our beloved Opa, her extrovert, turbo spouse. The man should run for mayor and while he is in the forefront, she is there with the camera to capture it all.

Nana is a trooper when she visits our rustic “home” in Canada. While we bust out the hiking boots, Molson, and paper plates, Nana has coordinated outfits, chardon-nay, and cocktail napkins. She is a pro at pretty and in a world that at times seems full of “nasty”, I find great sol-ace when I am in her realm of snowmen and bunnies.

I find great solace when I am in her realm of

snowmen and bunnies.

Lessons learnedI have learned a great deal from this ‘other mater-

nal figure’ in my life. Learning is one thing; putting into practice is another. I remind her of the old saying that if you throw enough “stuff” at a wall, eventually some-thing is bound to stick. So, I am trying to learn how to say “NO”, ask the kids to pitch in more, and carve out some time for me in this full house. Her advice: Buy a doorstop and use it.

She will be well needed in the year ahead. I am now convinced that the person who makes the fictitious panty hose charts is the same person who said lightning never strikes twice. Nana is blessed with a beautiful granddaughter who has had to struggle with physical limitations and countless health battles. Recently, an-other of her granddaughters was diagnosed with leu-kemia. The family will once again need their Nana and the strength, calm and peace that she so freely provides. I used to think that heroes came with bulging muscles and capes. Thanks to Nana, I know they put up twinkle lights, use the good china and love unconditionally.

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to have the concrete evidence there before us and to know that everybody had a hand in the design. It was an amazing moment. But I was more proud of what happened in that building because we had been doing great things to raise academic achievement. I humbly say this, but that day I re-ceived two standing ovations. It was so easy for me to give that community my heart; to be paid back that way was truly humbling.”

Volunteering with the American Can-cer Society came about due to a personal loss; Dr. Miller’s mother passed away from cancer. Dr. Miller reflects, “It’s a cause that I really believe in because I’ve seen the lives that research has saved and I’ve seen the lives that have been lost due to cancer.” This year he was the co-chair for the Cattle Baron’s Ball at Centennial Terrace in Syl-vania, which he describes as a “hoedown ball” that is a “standard fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.”

Dr. Miller hopes to teach his four boys, Yale, Collin, Brechin, and Sterling, to live life with a thankful heart and a generous spirit. Each day as he drops the boys off at school,

he reminds them to “live, laugh, love, and learn.” Dr. Miller classifies himself as an “older parent” because “we didn’t even start having kids until I was in my 40s.” However, he adds, “Being older and in the education field makes me more sensitive to the needs of my sons. Watching great kids, like my sons, doing great things...I just really appreciate it.”

Dr. Miller, Ed.D., is the su-perintendent of one of the top school districts in Ohio (Ot-tawa Hills), a volunteer for one of the largest nonprofits in the country (American Can-cer Society), and the father of four young boys (ages 5 to 11). Any one of

those things would be enough for most people, but Dr. Miller manages to squeeze in time for all of them. He laughs, “We work hard and we play hard!”

Dr. Miller decided to join the field of edu-cation because he “was influenced by really great teachers” and he “wanted to do the same for kids.” He originally majored in account-ing and was even accepted to law school, but he “followed [his] heart” and chose the career that he had anticipated since the 4th grade: education. He taught for 13 years, worked as a school principal for 7 years, and has been a superintendent (first in Hicksville, Ohio and now in Ottawa Hills) for the past 11 years.

When Dr. Miller was superintendent of Hicksville schools, which he jokes, “is a name, not a lifestyle,” the district experi-enced great academic growth, and they were able to build a new school. Dr. Miller recalls, “It was truly a community project…

Live, Laugh, Love and LearnDr. Kevin Miller:

Superintendent, father of four, and volunteerBy Erin Marsh

Fun factsName: Dr. Kevin Miller, Ed.D.Age: 52Kids: Yale 11, Collin 8, Brechin 7, Sterling 5Pet: Bailey, a rat terrierHobbies Water sportsLoves about Toledo: The variety of things to do,: the zoo, the Mudhens, the Metroparks...

Dr. Miller’s faves:Toledo place: Stranahan TheaterFood: SeafoodRestaurant: Mancy’s ItalianBeverage: Diet CokeMovie: On Golden PondMusician: Michael W. SmithBooks: Max Lucado and John Grisham novels

Kevin Miller sets an example for his four young boys,

Yale, Collin, Brechin and Sterling.

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The saying “third time’s a charm” certainly applies to Mama LaScola’s Italian Kitchen. It is the latest venture of Gus Nicolaidis and his partner Moussa Salloukh. The duo also own LaScola Italian Grill in Toledo and LaScola Tuscan Grill in Findlay. Having spent time studying-and especially eating-and more eating-in Italy, I looked forward to the opportunity to see if Mama LaScola’s offerings could hold their own against those of my host mom, Mama Corsetti.

I had heard that LaScola had a “homey” feel. For me, the objective of going out is to get as far away from home as possible. Thankfully, I was pleasantly surprised with

the atmosphere. LaScola’s offers a relaxed dining experience, yet the black and white checkered table-cloths, Tiffany lights and vintage photos are a positive addition. There is a nice bar area that is off to the side that provided adequate space between parents with little ones and older guests wanting an adult beverage.

I found the service to be one of the most positive aspects of the evening. Of course, I get excited as a mom when anyone asks what they can get for me (instead of the other way around). LaScola’s also has an extensive wine selection that I hope to explore at another time.

We ate during the dinner hour but LaScola’s also offers lunch Monday through Friday. The choices are plentiful including nine appetizers, eight salads, pastas, classic Italian dishes, and panini sandwiches.

I could not get the girls out of their comfort zone to try the garlic mussels but scored a small victory in ordering the calamari. Thankful-ly my children haven’t figured out

that word in Italian. We proceeded to the house salads. My youngest child Maria, whose first words were “Mama” and “balsamic” tried the white balsamic house dressing. The server shared that it may be purchased by the bottle. Of course, my offspring, like their mother, have never met a baked good that they didn’t like. The Mama’s bread did not disappoint.

Our main meal included Ma-ma’s Spaghetti Bake ($13.99). My gluten-free, carb free middle child ordered the salmon and informed me it was as good as what I pre-pare at home. It came with a side of vegetable ribbons that were pleas-ing to the eye and the palate.

There are so many options. I was in a quandary. I paid rent while living with an Italian family by helping as a “cooker” and truly enjoy the art of food preparation. I love ordering something I don’t make at home. I thought it would be interesting however, to order something I make on a regular basis for comparison purposes. I decided on the Chicken Piccata

($14.99) and found it to be very flavor-ful sautéed with brandy and topped with a garlic cream sauce with wild mushrooms and capers. We also or-dered a Margherita grilled pizza ($10.99). No matter how hard I try, I cannot convince my children that the pie is named for a queen, not a beverage.

We topped off a nice meal with the caramel pecan tiramisu ($5). It was wonderful and ex-tremely sweet. We also tried the bread pudding with a warm sauce ($5) that would warm anyone’s cockles. Portions were plentiful and easily shared.

Mama LaScola’s Italian Kitchen is a welcome addition. Our family looks forward to old favorites and experimenting with new dishes the next time we visit.

Third time’s a charmMama LaScola offers new dining

experience in old school atmosphereBy Mary Helen DarahMama LaScola’s

Italian Kitchen6060 Renaissance Place419-517-5570Mon-Thurs: 11:30am-9:30pmFri: 11:30-10pmSat: 4-10pmSun: 4-8pmlascolaitaliangrill.com

Kid-friendly YesTo avoid wait Reservations are recommended Noise level ModerateBathroom amenitiesNo Changing StationHigh chairs YesGot milk YesKids’ menu YesWheelchair Acceessible Yes

THE SHORT COURSE

Toledo Area Parent would like to extend its deepest sympathies to Karen Zickes, writer of Food

Fight upon the death of her spouse Jim. Mother Mayhem will be reviewing family dining until Ms. Zickes returns to the table.

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November2013

1 FRIDAY

33rd Annual Middle Eastern Dinner - Enjoy a day of delicious Middle Eastern food, complete with kaftan, grape leaves, falafel and more. There will also be a large bake sale with rice pudding, sumboosik, bird nests and baklava. The day will feature handmade collectibles like candles, jewelry and woodcrafts. Bring the whole family! 10am-8pm. St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Church, 4940 Harround Rd., Sylvania. 419-882-4037 steliasofsylvania.org

2 SATURDAY

Sibshops - Many brothers and sisters have feelings that are difficult to express, even to a friend. At Sibshop, they’ll share these feelings with others who truly understand.10am-1pm. Alternate Learning Center, 3939 Wrenwood, Toledo. 419-214-3066. siblingsupport.org. Free.

Animal Grossology at Imagination Station - Poop, pellets and barf! Sometimes animals can be gross! All of these gross things have a purpose, and many are helpful to animals and the envi-ronment. Check out some gross Toledo Zoo animals, real owl pellets and even some animal poop here at Imagination Station! Also, checkout the traveling exhibit, Grossology: The (Impolite) Science of the Human Body. 12-4pm. General Admission. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way, Toledo. 419-244-2674. ImaginationStationToledo.org

“Sweaters, Soups, Sweets & Santa” - Sweaters (mostly women’s) and other clothing items will be available as well as Christmas Decor. While you shop, try some delicious homemade soups and baked goods. Pilgrim Church, 1375 Sylvania Avenue. 9am-2pm. 419-478-6012. Free. From Grief to New Hope - This grief workshop allows anyone who has lost a loved one to express and discuss their feelings during the grieving process, bringing them some hope in the process. Also, learn about other grief workshops around the area. No registration required. 9am-noon. Waterville United Methodist

Church, 102 N. Fifth St., Waterville. 419-878-3645. newhopecenter.net. Free.

5 TUESDAY

National Chemistry Week at Imagination Station - This year’s theme, Energy: Now and Forever!, allows students to experience demonstrations you can’t replicate in the classroom while celebrating the wonders of chemistry. Through November 9. 10am-5pm. General Admission. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way, Toledo. 419-244-2674. ImaginationStationToledo.org

6 WEDNESDAY

Kids Energy Zone - This program will focus on fun movement activities using a variety of equipment, music and obstacle courses in a safe, non-threatening and non- competitive environment. The curricu-lum will correlate to Ohio’s Early Learning and Development Standards. Each week instructors will lead fun interactive activi-ties involving self-confidence, social inter-actions, creativity and more. Registration required. Must be at least 3 years old. Through December 4. $30 per child. Tam-O-Shanter, 7060 Sylvania Ave., Sylvania. 419-882-1500.

8 FRIDAY

Tellabration! 2013: A Storytelling Concert - For an interesting, fun, and unique time, come hear stories by the Frogtown Storytelling Guild, sponsor of Tellabration! The stories of the Frogtown Storytelling Guild members span the oral tradition: folktales, wisdom tales, legends, romantic sagas, humorous accounts, and personal narratives that explore the richness of the human condition. 7-9pm. $10. Maumee Indoor Theater, 601 Conant Street, Maumee. 419-350-1454.

9 SATURDAY

Baby Food Cooking Class - Provide your baby with a nutritious start to first foods. You’ll leave with an age appro-priate guide for introducing new foods

Easy-Bake Ovens are a perfect way for children to learn their way around a kitch-en. Think your team has what it takes to win this nostalgic cooking competition? Teams of adults and kids show off their skills with Easy-Bake ovens while baking original delicious recipes. Pam from Pam’s Corner will hold a fantastic and infor-mative cooking demo at 2:30. If you aren’t in the mood to compete, cheer on your favorite baking team! Proceeds benefit Children’s Theatre Workshop, a local orga-nization that provides acting classes and live theatrical experiences for youth ages 5-18. Tickets available at the door. 2-4pm. Adults, $7; kids, $5 (ages 7-18); ages 6 and under, free. Children’s Theatre Workshop, 2417 Collingwood Blvd. 419-244-5061. childrenstheaterworkshop.org— MLR

Junior Chef: Easy-Bake Oven Off / Sunday, November 10

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Sister Gretchen’s Christmas Bazaar & Bake Sale - This is the perfect one-stop shop for holiday treats. Snack on delicious baked goods, like pies, coffee cakes, jams and jellies and more. Runs until 5pm on Friday, noon on Saturday. 9:30am. Regina Hall Conference Center, 6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania. sisterofsf.org

16 Saturday

Frostology: The Science of the Season- Put Imagination Station on your family’s must do list this holiday season. Enjoy the holiday parade and take a photo with Santa. Discover how cool science can be! Frostology will explore the slippery sci-

to your baby, as well as some favorite recipes! 11am-noon. Lullaby Lane Baby Boutique, 3100 Main St. Suite 735, Maumee. 419-878-0127. lullabylane.com. Free

Live from Little People Place - Check out this new, interactive show featuring The Fisher Price Little People celebrating the holidays. Sponsored by Fisher Price. Also on Sunday, November 10. Showings at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Free with regu-lar zoo admission. Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-4040. toledozoo.org. See pg. 7 for more information.

10 SUNDAYSo Now Holiday Shopping Vendor Event - The Stone Oak Network of Women is hosting a holiday shopping event with over 20 vendors. Get all your holiday shopping done in one place while helping a great cause! Proceeds benefit The Daughter Project. There will also be a cash bar. 1-5pm. Stone Oak Country Club, 100 Stone Oak Boulevard, Holland. 419-867-8400. stoneoakcountryclub.org

Kids Celebrity Wait Night - Enjoy this event where the celebrities are the kids. Children, ages 6-16 will provide food ser-vice and entertainment for guests during this fundraiser. Tips procured by the staff will support other kids at Toledo Children’s Hospital. Dress in your favorite sports team apparel, and enjoy a silent auc-tion and cash bar. 4:30pm. $25, adult; $15, kid. Premier Banquet Hall, 4480 Heatherdowns Blvd. 419-291-5679. pro-medica.org/toledochildrens

The Carpenter’s Color Dash - The Youth and Children’s Ministries of St. Joseph Parish will host a 5K color run open to the community. Entry forms are available online. All proceeds to benefit

The Foundation for our Future Campaign. $20. Fossil Park, Sylvania. stjoesylvania.org

Easy-Bake Oven Off! - A true baking test! Teams of adults and kids (ages 7-18) will duke it out. 2-4pm. $7, adults; $5, kids. Children’s Theatre Workshop, 2417 Collingwood Blvd. 419-244-5061.childrenstheaterworkshop.org. See pg. 28 for more information.

12 TUESDAY

Yo Yo Mania! - Join Rob Kitts, National Yo-Yo Champion, as he introduces the exciting world of yo-yo competition. He will perform tricks, as well as a freestyle demonstration. 6:30-7:30pm. Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami Street, Toledo. 419-259-5310. toledolibrary.org. Free.

15 FRIDAY

Lights Before Christmas - Check out one of Toledo’s most popular traditions! The entire Toledo Zoo park will be lit by miles of Christmas lights. There will also be other holiday activities, including an outdoor ice rink, carolers, rides, ice-carvings and a visit from Santa Claus himself. Don’t miss the tree lighting ceremony at 6pm. Closing times and events vary; check website for more info. Through December 31. 3pm. Free with regular zoo admission. Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-4040. toledozoo.org/lightsSanger Branch Book Sale - Pick up a good read for the fall and winter months at this huge book sale! Friday, 1pm-4:30pm; Saturday, 9am-4:30pm; Sunday, 1pm-4-:30pm. Sanger Branch, 3030 W, Central Ave., Toledo. 419-259-5370.toledolibrary.org. Free.

ence of snow. Have fun making engineers out of elves and creating mastepieces from paper. Through January 5. 10am-5pm. General Admission. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way, Toledo. 419-244-2674. ImaginationStationToledo.org

20 Wednesday

Walleye Night - Check out Toledo’s own Walleye hockey team as they take to the Toledo Zoo’s new ice rink. The players will skate and sign autographs. Attendees are welcome to bring their own skates or rent them from the zoo. Check website for more details. 5-7pm. Free with regular zoo admission. Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-4040. toledozoo.org/lights

Continued on pg. 30

The Lights Before Christmas Friday, November 15-Tuesday, December 31Bundle up the family and bring them to this Toledo tradition. The entire Toledo Zoo park will be lit with over one million lights, including 200 lighted animal im-ages, covered walkways and the popular Dancing Lights. On Fri-day, November 15, don’t miss the Tree-Lighting Ceremony at 6pm. The ceremony is the perfect kick-off for the holiday season. The Norway Spruce tree stands at 85 feet and is adorned by over 35,000 LED lights. There will also be other holiday activities, including an outdoor ice rink, carolers, rides, ice-carvings and a visit from Santa Claus himself. 3-9pm. Children under, 2 free; children under 12, $11; adults, $14; seniors, $11; ($2 off for Lucas County residents). The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-4040. toledozoo.org— MLR

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23 Saturday

Author’s Event - The speaker this year is Jessie Hogsett, author of Detached: Surviving Reactive Attachment Disorder. Listen as he tells firsthand his experience growing up with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and developing Reactive Attachment Disorder and how he overcame. He will also give tips and suggestions to help those struggling with RAD. 1-4pm. $10. The Funny Bone Comedy Club, 6140 Levis Commons Blvd, Perrysburg. 800-246-1731. adoptamericanetwork.org3rd Annual Charity Hockey Game - Members from the Toledo Fire Department and the Toledo Police Department will compete in a charity hockey game as part of Public Safety Day. There will be plenty of activities for kids, including a firefight-ing obstacle course, coloring books, safety demos and more. Also, meet the players afterward. 1:30pm. $13. Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave. 419-654-0564. huntingtoncentertoledo.com

29 FRIDAY

“Nutcracker” - The Ballet Theatre of Toledo presents Nigel Burgoine’s action packed, family friendly production of The Nutcracker on Thanksgiving weekend. Enhancing this spectacular production are professional musicians and guest artists, including Louisville Ballet dancer Leigh Anne Albrechta and singers from the Masterworks Chorale. November 29th & 30th, 7pm; December 1st, 2pm. $20, $29, $39. Valentine Theatre, 400 N. Superior, Toledo. 419-861-0895. ballettheatreoftoledo.org

Holiday Shopping - Stop by the Toledo Zoo to find unique gifts perfect for animal and zoo lovers, like memberships, event tickets, animal sponsorships, as well as clothing, jewelry and more. 10am-4-pm. Free with regular zoo admission. Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-4040. toledozoo.org

30 SATURDAY

Holiday Lantern Tours - Experience a turn-of-the-century Christmas! The flicker of a candle-lit lantern will light the way as a costumed guide takes you on a journey to meet historical characters on the grounds. Guests will be invited to experience the holiday customs and celebrations of the 1900s and hear stories about Christmas past and the history of Northwest Ohio. Pre-registration and pre-payment is required. Tours last roughly 90 minutes and will be repeated every half hour from 4-8:30pm. November 30, December 6, 7, 13 & 14, 2013. 4-8:30pm. Sauder Village, 22611 State Route 2, Archbold. 800-590-9755. saudervillage.org

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ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACEFREE CLASSIFIEDS: Individuals may receive one free 20-word ad per month (products offered in ads must sell for under $100). Each additional word 40 cents, payment must accompany ad. Free ads run 1 month and are reserved for private-parties use, noncommercial concerns and free services-LINE CLASSIFIEDS: Only $10 per month for 20 words or less. Each additional word is 40 cents each and any artwork will be $5 extra.DISPLAy CLASSIFIEDS: Display classifieds with a box may be purchased for $25 per column inch. Photos are accepted with ads for an additional $5 per photo.

DEADLINES: Ad copy must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication.PAyMENT: Payment must be received before an ad can be placed. We accept checks, cash, money orders and credit cards (Visa/Mastercard).PhoNE: 419-244-9859 E-MAIL: [email protected]: Sorry, NO REFUNDS given.MISPRINTS: Credit toward future ads.

marketplace

ANNoUNCEMENTS The Libbey Legacy commiTTee will host our all class reunion dinner/dance on Nov. 30, 2013 at 6 p.m. at the Hotel/UTMC (fka The Hilton) for more info con-tact any committee member

Divorce SupporT group at St. Joseph Parish, Main St at Ravine Dr. Sylvania. non denominational. Wednesdays Oct 2nd to Dec.4th. from 6:45 to 9:00pm. 419-885-5791 or 419-913-9766

“ceLebraTe recovery” – Weekly meetings begin Oct. 15, 2013 at Northpoint Community Center- 3708 W. Laskey Rd, Toledo (corner of Harvest & Laskey). Childcare Available.

mom’S group! mom2mom meets @ Christ the Word Church on the 1st Wednesdays of each month, Sep. 4 through May 7. Check facebook.com/Mom2momtoledo

Free FaTherhooD parenTing programS! Every Thursday, 6pm at Operation Reseed Ministry. Call to register 419-297-3530

geT high-SpeeD inTerneT Starting at $19.99 a month. Bundle and get up to a $100 Visa Gift Card! Order Now 800-614-9150

car inSurance $19/Month Any Driving Record or Credit Type. Canceled? No Problem. Free Quote and Instant Coverage INSUREDIRECT.COM Toll-Free 888-802-9837

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hELP WANTEDSeriouS momS WanTeD. We need serious & motivated people for expanding health and wellness industry. High speed internet/phone essential. Free online training. www.iworkforfreedom.com

FreeLance WriTerS neeDeD. Send resume to [email protected]

EDUCATIoNhigh SchooL DipLoma From home. 6 - 8 weeks. ACCREDITED. Get a Diploma. Get a Job! No Computer Needed. Free Brochure 1-800-264-8330 Benjamin Franklin High School www.diplomafromhome.com

FoR SALE

DeLL LapTop compuTer. Extremely fast, professional grade model. Excellent condition. Windows 7, Premium software bundle. Perfect for home, school or busi-ness. Six month warranty. $399. 717-653-6314

Design consultation

419.270.6859 [email protected]

SPECIALIZING IN ECLECTIC STYLEjan m. thomasroom stylist/design advisor

YOUR STUFF.RESTYLED.

ENTERTAINMENT

call Lydia at 419.244.9859

to sell your stuff today

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