81212 by Adams Street Publishing Co.

FREE August 2012

2 0 1 2

BACK TO

SCHOOL G U I D E

Super teen

16-year-old Hancock County Fair competitor Scheniya Johnson

A teacher p1 5 with heart Jennifer Theisâ€˜s lasting impact on her students

Taco time!

Indulging in south of the border fare at Rancho Fiesta

p16

• August 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Adams Street Publishing Co.

Volume 2 • Issue 8 August 2012 www.findlayfamily.com

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs: cjacobs@findlayfamily.com

Co-Publisher/CFO

Mark I. Jacobs: mjacobs@findlayfamily.com

Editorial Editor

Alia Orra: editor@findlayfamily.com Scott Recker: scott@findlayfamily.com

Staff Writer

Matt Desmond: mattd@findlayfamily.com

Calendar

Julian Garcia: calendar@findlayfamily.com

Social Media Specialist

Amanda Goldberg: agoldberg@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Contributing Writers

Rose Roccisano Barto, Mary Helen Darah, Sharon Gittleman, Kristen Gibson

Art/Production Art Director

Kristi Polus: kristi@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Graphic Design

Brittney Koehl: adsin@findlayfamily.com Jake Ziolkowski: jake@adamsstreetpublishing.com Sarah Baird: production@adamsstreetpublishing.com Alex Beat: abeat@adamsstreetpublishing.com Megan Andersoni: mandersons@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Advertising

Sales Manager

Aubrey Hornsby: ahornsby@adamsstreetpublishing.com

Account Executive

Joe Baker: jbaker@findlayfamily.com

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Emily Gibb: classifieds@findlayfamily.com

Administration Accounting

Robin Armstrong: rarmstrong@findlayfamily.com

Interns

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Advertising/General Info: For advertising and general information, call (419) 244-9859 or fax (419) 244-9871. E-mail ads to adsin@findlayfamily.com Findlay Area Family subscriptions are available by mail for $28 per year at Findlay Area Family, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, OH 43604. Letters to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are subject to editing and should include the writer’s full name and phone number.

departments

4 5 6 13 13 17 19

community snapshots what’s briefly happening new kids on the block exceptional families

calendar — compiled by Julian Garcia

marketplace

15 parent profile

Back to School Guide 2012

tween the lines

commentary

feature

A teacher with heart

Jennifer Theis helps fifth graders expand their horizons — by Sharon Gittleman

energy

Study Guide p 12

16 food fight

Taco time

Rancho Fiesta transports diners to a Mexican cantina — by Rose Roccisano Barto

Audited by

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

The Levenhagens – Cohen, 2 & 3, of Findlay, OH Brought to you by the publishers of:

Toledo Area Parent News Winner of 28 awards for design and editorial content General Excellence Best Commentary Best Personal Commentary

In-Depth Reporting Best Overall Writing Best Cover Photo Best Supplement Design

we want to hear from you! Findlay Area Family

editor@findlayfamily.com 419-244-9859

www.findlayfamily.com • August 2012 •

communitysnapshots Riverbend Kids Fest!

Kids Fest on Thursday, July 19 was a free, day-long event celebrating all the things children enjoy. (Like their super-cute enthusiasm for face painting!) Summer Boutwell, age 2, and Regan Boutwell, age 4, from Findlay

SNAP IT. SEND IT. Send us your photos from what is going on in the community! Send your pics to:

production@adamsstreetpublishing.com

School spirit

We received so many awesome submissions for our Back-to-School cover kid! Here are a few of our favorites. Your child could be our next cover kid, too â€” send your photos to: production@adamsstreetpublishing.com and include the childâ€™s name, age and hometown. Zoey Gutierrez, age 6, attends Whittier Elementary in Findlay

Kaya, age 9, and Sydney King, age 6 from Vanlue.

We need your donations of appliances, cabinetry, hard furniture, windows and MORE! ReStore accepts and re-sells donations of new and used home improvement items. ReStore sales benefit the Habitat home building program. Please visit our website at www.restorefindlay.org for a list of items we accept. Call us for pickup of your donations!

4IFFIN !VE s &INDLAY s 4

â€˘ August 2012 â€˘ www.findlayfamily.com

Backstreet’s back Take a trip back in time with the Hancock Historical Museum at its fifth annual Backstreet Festival. Spend the day browsing antique cars and bicycles or enjoy a variety of colors and patterns at the quilt show. Say “no” to the car for the afternoon and take a relaxing ride on a horse drawn carriage. Music and entertainment will fill the whole day. There will also be plenty of food, with chicken BBQ Historic wheels from automobiles to bicycles will dinners ($8 a be on display at the Backstreet Festival person), and a ‘beat the summer heat’ ice cream social the whole family will enjoy! Tours of the museum and its campus will be available, providing a chance to explore Hull-Flater House and its exhibits on glass manufactured in Findlay, historical social life, the Civil War and more. All proceeds from the event benefit the education programs at the Museum, including its various workshops and children’s programs. August 18. 10am-3pm. Hancock Historical Museum, 422 W. Sandusky St. 419423-4433. www.hancockhistoricalmuseum.org —AR

Fun with cowboys The Hancock County Fair’s been an ongoing tradition since 1852 (it was even the training ground for Civil War volunteers!), and this month the Hancock Agricultural Society brings back more of that old-fashioned charm. The fun starts Wednesday, August 29 with the standard fair fun and games, as well as the more exciting stuff — at 8 pm in the North Grandstand there will be a calf scramble (capture the baby cow — typical Wednesday night for a teen, right?) — and on Thursday, August 30 Mike Albert’s “Ultimate Tribute” takes the stage for a rousing (and respectful) Elvis Presley impersonation. The county fair continues through Saturday, September 1 with the edge-of-your-seat cowboy tricks of the Broken Horn Rodeo in the South Grandstand. Hancock County Fairgrounds, 1017 E. Sandusky St. www.hancockfairgrounds.org. —AO

www.findlayfamily.com • August 2012•

Fro-yo fun

Sky high Ready to take off? Yes, it’s that time of year again — time for the Flag City BalloonFest. It’s the beloved annual celebration of the skies, as dozens of hot air balloons sail overhead, painting the sky with their vivid colors. Mass balloon flights happen all three days of the festival, but there’s plenty more fun for the whole family — a kids fair with inflatables and games, helicopter and balloon rides, a classic car show, the Up, Up and Away 5K run and plenty of food vendors serving the festival foods you love. You might even win the corn hole tournament, or see a wheelchair race. It’s a perfect way to make some summer memories before school starts. Friday, August 10-Sunday, August 12. Emory Adams Park, South Blanchard Street. www.flagcityballoonfest.com —MD

• August 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Fro-yo “just the way you like it” is the goal of the new Iggy’s Self Serve Frozen Yogurt at 2025 Tiffin Ave. With 15 flavors of soft-serve frozen yogurt and more than 60 toppings at a trickedout toppings bar, it will be hard not to satisfy everyone. The only problem might be in deciding what to choose — made a little easier by the option to sample the yogurt before you buy. The store also features homemade cinnamon-roasted almonds, pecans and fresh kettlecorn. “Frozen yogurt is a healthy alternative to ice cream,” says DeeAnne Hosmer, who owns the business with her husband, Rick. “You can choose low-fat yogurt [with] fresh fruit and enjoy a totally healthy treat. Or you can indulge a little, or a lot, and put something chocolate on it!” The Hosmers began Iggy’s after nine years of food service experience selling their roasted nuts at festivals. —RB Iggy’s Self Serve Frozen Yogurt, 2025 Tiffin Ave. Suite 2. Mon. thru Thurs. 11am-10pm; Fri. & Sat. 11am-11pm; Sun. 11am-9pm. 419-420-0095. Facebook page: Iggy’s Self Serve Frozen Yogurt.

Back to School Guide 2012

By Kristen Gibson Photos By Alex Beat

Avoid high sugar fruit snacks and go for the real deal. Incorporating the whole fruit provides important vitamins, nutrients and fiber. — Chelsea Haselman , clinical dietitian at Blanchard Valley Medical Associates.

Eco-friendly packaging and crunchy, vibrantly-colored goodies make pre-packaged, processed food lunches a thing of the past. Local dietitians share their best tips on what to pack for a healthy school year.

A package of Babybel cheese provides protein.

energy Add antioxidants with all-natural dark chocolate (we packed enough to share and barter!).

A simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice and a pinch of salt is all this veggie-infused penne needs.

Easy-to-prepare couscous from Pereg.

Edamame gives some much-needed crunch.

“Get your child involved in packing his or her own lunch with what they would like to eat. You can have chips or a cookie, but not every time. Make it a treat and portion out appropriate servings. Try to have veggies and fruit already cut up and ready to eat.” — Julie Russell, licensed dietitian

Green bean chips and vibrant pomegranate seeds add much-needed color to lunch.

continued on pg 8

www.findlayfamily.com • August 2012 •

Back to School Guide 2012

• August 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

continued from pg 7 Veggies and fruits can be packed in unexpected ways — here, the fruit (sliced tart apples) is in the pita sandwich (with roasted chicken).

Play around with different kinds of fruit and veggies for sides (we like refreshing watermelon and kiwi in these warmer temperatures).

Bell peppers provide a healthy utensil to scoop hummus with. Almond butter and organic grape jelly provide a tasty twist on the classic PB&J.

Pack a playful lunch — make the raisin face yourself, or pack the dried fruit on the side so they can make whole wheat bagel art during lunch break.

Don't skimp on fiber. “Using bread, wraps, and tortillas made from 100% whole wheat with adequate fiber (3g or higher per serving) is a great way to incorporate fiber into the meal. Popcorn is also a great option to replace chips.” — Chelsea Haselman, clinical dietitian at Blanchard Valley Medical Associates.

continued on pg 11

www.findlayfamily.com • August 2012 •

Back to School Guide 2012

• August 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Back to School Guide 2012

continued from pg 9 Gluten-free goodies Traditional treats that accommodate every kid’s needs can be found at many grocery stores.

Lunchmeat can be a surprising source of gluten — this turkey is completely gluten-free.

Aladdin BPA-free bottle with removable dome lid to add ice or clean easily. Dishwasher safe. $9.99.

Bobble A BPA-free, recyclable bottle that filters water — say bye-bye to plastic bottle waste. $9.99.

Our featured containers Rubbermaid Lunch Blox container with dividers. BPA free. $5.99. Snapware airtight divided dish. BPA free. Dishwasher, freezer and microwave safe. $ 3.99 — $4.99

continued on pg 12

www.findlayfamily.com • August 2012 •

Back to School Guide 2012

continued from pg 11

Study Guide

Packing their lunch with healthy choices is the easy part. Packing their brains with confidence? That's where it gets a little more challenging. Here, area psychologists, counselors and teachers give their tips for preparing your child for the school year. By Kristen Gibson

Dress young children in comfy clothes and shoes; make sure items are easy to play in and easy to clean. Check the weather and layer clothes when temps change rapidly. Flipflops are not playground safe. Little feet need protection and support for trampling through wood chips or climbing the monkey bars.

“Help them visualize their 'best day' and identify things they can do to increase the likelihood that 'best day' will —Holly Schweitzer Dunn, happen.” Stepping Stones Counseling Center Help kids understand what to expect the first day. First Day Jitters is a great book to read together with little ones before school starts. — Cheryl Drake, first grade teacher at Jacobs Primary and mother of four

Before your kids head out the door, say something like, “I love you! I'm so excited for you! I can't wait to hear all about it when you get home.” —Holly Schweitzer Dunn, Stepping Stones Counseling Center

Start their day right. Skip low-fiber, highsugar cereals. Instead try a balanced meal with whole grain carbohydrates and lean protein. “By pairing foods this way it allows for the child to remain satisfied longer and prevents mid-morning hunger while at school.” — Chelsea Haselman, clinical

dietician at Blanchard Valley Medical Associates

—Cheryl Drake, first

Plan ahead if older kids will be home alone after school. Make sure they understand your expectations and have up-to-date instructions and emergency contact information.

grade teacher at Jacobs Primary and mother of four

principal at Findlay High School

— Janice Panuto, freshman assistant

Preparation can reduce separation anxiety. Review class schedules and answer any questions your child might have. Be calm and positive. Reassure them the teacher is there to help them learn and keep them safe. When dropping them off, give a good hug and leave. “The tears really do end almost as soon as you leave.” —Cheryl Drake, first grade teacher at

Jacobs Primary and mother of four

Children should tour the school or meet the teachers ahead of time. High school students should attend orientation sessions where kids receive important school information, get locker assignments and interact with teachers and students.

—Janice Panuto, freshman assistant principal at Findlay High School

Set a sleep schedule and ease kids back into the routine a few weeks before school starts. To ensure they're ready for the opening bell, set out clothes, lunches, money and backpacks the night before. "[Children] are more likely to enter the classroom with calm and confidence if their day begins in an organized and calm way.” — Holly Schweitzer Dunn, Stepping Stones Counseling Center

• August 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

THE LINES TWEEN advice for parents with children 10-16

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Scheniya Johnson’s a Hancock County Fair award-winner

Playing fair

Ribbon-winning Findlay teen Scheniya Johnson

Easing the transition

By Rose Roccisano Barto

Tips from an expert for a smooth start By Dr. Susan Pneuman

Starting the school year can be tough for any kid, but for children with autism, the transition presents very unique difficulties. Loss of therapeutic activities like swimming, sports and other therapies can affect their ability to cope with a new schedule. New faces and stimuli can be overwhelming. Struggles with new demands and schedules — both academically and emotionally — and pressure to move quickly and efficiently in the morning after difficulties with sleeping, all lead to challenges. Yet, there are some ways in which the back-to-school season is actually easier for children on the spectrum than for their neurotypical peers. Being back in school, with a regular schedule, clear expectations, and a calendar of events can be a huge relief after the unstructured, openended nature of summer. And being relatively impervious to peer pressure can protect these children from some of the typical back-to-school anxieties.

Tips for smoothing the back to school transition Visit Before the school year begins, take some time to visit the school and the classroom to allow your child to get comfortable with the space she’ll be in for so much of her day. Meet the teacher and ask him if the seating assignments have been made and let your child sit in her seat. If it’s a totally new school for your child, be sure to visit all of the areas she will be in, such as the lunchroom, the nurse’s office, and the playground. Talk Continue to talk about school in the weeks leading up to the first day. You could even watch videos or read books about the first day of school and look at pictures of her at school from the year before. Mark the first day on the

calendar and count down the days and weeks. The more you discuss it, the more comfortable your child will be when the big day arrives. Schedule Start getting your child back into the school year rules and the routine a few weeks in advance, such as earlier bedtime and earlier wake up time. Ease into these by cutting back by 5-minute intervals. You can create a schedule of a typical school day for her using pictures and talking about how her school days will go. Shop Have your child make a list with you of needed school supplies and take her shopping. She can help you find the items and budget the quantity of each supply she will need. Avoid Overload You know your child best. If you think that the noise and excitement that brews during the first few days of school might be too much for her, talk with the teacher and school about a special quiet place she can go to keep her from being overwhelmed. Dr. Pneuman is the director and owner of The Center For Autism and Dyslexia, with locations in Findlay and Lima. For more information, call 567-525-4487 or visit www.centerforautismanddyslexia.com.

Scheniya Johnson is just as at home on the running track as she is at the fairgrounds. Johnson, 16 and a junior this fall at Arlington High School, runs three events for her school track team. She plays wing on the Arlington Arsenal village soccer team, and recently started refereeing youth soccer. She sings in the school choir, plays flute and trombone in the band, and is a member of the youth group at Good Hope Lutheran Church. But her passion is showing swine at the Hancock County Fair, where she has won several ribbons, and is secretary of her 4H Club, the So-Han-Co Livestockers (the club is part of Ohio State University’s youth development program). Johnson took time out with Findlay Family to talk about her busy teen life. You have so many things going on. How do you juggle it all? It takes a lot of patience, that’s for sure. Having a family that is supportive helps. A lot of my friends are active in the same things and we just carpool and make it easier on our families. I write down everything I have to get done in my planner. If you could only do one of your many activities, which would it be and why? Probably 4-H. I like being able to work with all the animals. I’m a big animal person. Then again there’s the friend factor. That’s my family – we’re all very social. What’s involved in raising pigs for show? I choose them when they are about one or two months old. You want them

Scheniya with her array of awards to stand level and have good body structure for meat. You want them to look naturally sound. It takes three or four months to get them ready for the fair. How do you think all of these activities will help you in your future? I am interested in being either a real estate agent or a wedding planner. Both of those job choices are socially oriented. My social skills will help me in talking to people and starting conversations. What do you like to do in your limited free time? I get maybe two or three hours a night when I don’t have track meets. I like to sit down and listen to music. I’m not a big reader, but I like to watch TV. Know a teen with something to brag about? Let us know! E-mail editor@adamsstreetpublishing.com.

www.findlayfamily.com • August 2012 •

Advertorial

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Dr. Chris Lofquist of Trenton Chiropractic and Rehab answers your pressing health questions Is cracking your knuckles bad for you? My daughter does it constantly, and I'm worried it will lead to problems in her hands in the future?

This is an interesting one — that cracking sound or “cavitation” is simply a change in pressure within the joint capsule, in which gas in solution comes out of solution. Think of taking a big bubble, having it pop into a lot of little bubbles, and then over the span of a few minutes those small bubbles converge and form into a big bubble again. As far as chronic knuckle crackers having arthritis, it can pretty much be chalked up to being “an old wives' tale." There have been several recent studies showing that there is no link between arthritis in chronic knuckle crackers. The cracking that is often associated with a chiropractic adjustment is similar to this, however an adjustment is performed in a specific manner which restores proper joint motion and mechanics.

I've recently been diagnosed with mild scoliosis. Is this a big deal? I'm not sure what the ramifications are of my diagnosis.

It depends on how severe the curvature is currently. If it's less than 20 degrees, the best choice is to be sure your joints are moving properly and you are diligent about performing the correct spinal stability exercises for you. If your curve is between 20 and 40 degrees, then bracing may be a consideration in addition to addressing spinal stability and proper joint motion. Beyond 40 degrees would not be considered a mild scoliosis, and treatment would change considerably. Scoliosis is a very complex disorder, and even a mild scoliosis has the possibility for progression, so it is best to see a chiropractic doctor who treats scoliosis from several angles including spinal stability and joint motion, and can prescribe the proper exercises and treatment plan to keep the curve from progressing. Have questions for Doc L? Send them to editor@adamsstreetpublishing.com and chiropractor Dr. Chris Lofquist of Trenton Chiropractic and Rehab will answer them personally in the coming issues! Trenton Chiropractic and Rehab, 643 Trenton Ave. 419-427-6300. www.trentonchiropracticandrehab.com.

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• August 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

A teacher with heart

Jennifer Theis helps fifth graders expand their horizons By Sharon Gittleman Jennifer Theis has a great love in her life (in addition to her husband and boys, 13 and 8, and their 12-year-old daughter) — teaching. She’s practiced the art of classroom instruction for the past 16 years. Today, Theis helps fifth graders at Wilson Vance Intermediate School in Findlay learn math, reading, writing, spelling and science. It was meant to be.

Effortless transition

“I started to explore the field of education when I was in college,” said Theis, 40, a New Reigel resident. “I spoke to some teachers I had in high school and they said I’d make a great teacher. I haven’t regretted it since.” Teaching may seem routine, but her days are unpredictable. “You have your hand in so many things. You are acting as a mother figure and a counselor. You are more than a teacher,” she said. “You have to be there for them.” Theis has been there for her students and then some. Her career has been studded with awards, accolades and honors, including her selection as a finalist for the Findlay Rotary Club’s Golden Apple Award in 2010. She was also named an Ohio Master Teacher in 2010, a distinction she earned after submitting a portfolio of her accomplishments which was followed by an observer’s scrutiny of the quality of her teaching. She also received National Board Certification in 2011. While pats on the back from her col-

leagues are delightful, Theis says there’s nothing like the joy of teaching. “When I see that my students are learning how to learn, figuring out what to do to be successful, it’s exciting.” But it’s not without its challenges. Bureaucratic requirements and other non-academic time drainers aren’t the only problems teachers, like Theis, face. “I’ve had kids who have experienced difficult situations at home, where they didn’t want to go home. It was heartbreaking to hear,” she said. “I tried to make them feel comfortable and safe.”

Inspiring adolescents

Despite these things, Theis has found her niche teaching pre-teens. “You have to be a special teacher to be in a middle school. Having my own teenagers, I appreciate teachers willing to teach those grades,” she said laughing. “Fifth graders are still young enough to appreciate hugs. We have fun in the classroom.” Theis also serves as a student council advisor, and works on several district committees. She also assists first-year teachers as a mentor. For her, confidence and curriculum expertise are a novice teacher’s biggest advantages. “Get to know everything you can about the students in your classroom,” she said. “Knowing where your kids are coming from will help you see how to help them.” What makes a good teacher? “Someone who doesn’t stop learning.”

www.findlayfamily.com • August 2012 •

Taco time

Rancho Fiesta transports diners to a Mexican cantina by Rose Roccisano Barto

Rancho Fiesta Mexican Restaurant 1739 Tiffin Ave. 419-424-9363 www.ranchofiestarestaurant.com Mon. - Thurs. 10am-10pm Fri. & Sat. 11am-11pm Sun. 11am-9pm

We have an interesting mix of nationalities in our family. Included in our personal United Nations are Italy, China, Poland and the Netherlands. One locale we can’t lay claim to is Mexico. Yet a recent visit to Rancho Fiesta made us feel right at home. The interior of Rancho Fiesta, 1739 Tiffin Ave., reminded us of a Mexican cantina in a movie set. Music, featuring trumpets and guitars, provided ambiance and the walls were a pleasant adobe earthtone decorated with sombreros and serapes. Even the restrooms were labeled “damas” (ladies) and “caballeros” (gentlemen). We were seated quickly and, while perusing the menus, served our family’s favorite part of a Mexican meal — chips and salsa.

Ay, caramba

There was a healthy variety of steak, seafood, chicken, salads, Mexican specialties and vegetarian options. A children’s menu offers smaller versions of favorites such as tacos and enchiladas, as well as the tried and true hot dogs, cheeseburgers and chicken nuggets. Diners wanting to pick and choose can take advantage of an a la carte menu that even offers a choice of taco fillings. A handy primer on Mexican food is also part of the menu, and is helpful when pondering the difference between a taco and a taquito. My older daughter ordered three beef tacos off the a la carte menu ($5.29) with

a side of French fries ($1.79). My younger daughter ordered two beef tacos with rice and beans ($7.29) while my husband ordered the super burrito dinner ($7.79) featuring a loaded burrito with rice and beans. I ordered the vegetarian fajitas ($7.99). Everything’s better fried The generous portions left us satisfied, although my oldest agreed that three tacos were a bit too much for a preteen tummy. In fact, the portions were so generous we almost didn’t order dessert. But intrigued by the cheesecake chimichanga with ice cream ($3.99) we boldly forged onward. We take our restaurant reviewing seriously, and decided the public had a right to know. My kids went from “I’m full” to “it depends what the dessert

• August 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

is” to “oh, I’ll try it” in about 10 seconds. Although any dessert with the word “cheesecake” is an automatic contender, the fact that it was cheesecake wrapped in a flour tortilla and deep fried made it a winner. The dessert was gigantic. We were glad we ordered one dessert and four spoons. It was delicious but we were hard pressed to finish it. Yet another reason to eat dessert first! So no matter where the roots of your family’s ancestral tree are planted, you will find common ground and feel at home at Rancho Fiesta. Just be sure to leave room for that cheesecake.

THE SHORT COURSE Kid-friendly Yes To avoid wait Consider off-hours Noise level Fine Bathroom amenities Changing table available High Chairs Yes Got Milk Yes Kid’s menu? Yes Anything healthy for the kids? Salads Food allergy concerns? As always, ask

{AUGUST 2012} All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation, and limited size. Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended. Wednesday, August 29 - Monday, September 3

Hancock County Fair

Since 1852 the Hancock County Fair has been a summer tradition with plenty of activites, quality entertainment, communal engagement and fun for the whole family. Enjoy great fair food, midway rides & games, 4H competitions and pageants. Also, Mike Albert’s “Ultimate Tribute” Elvis show is sure to rock, the Broken Horn Rodeo will thrill and the tunes of Nashville Crush will roll. Pack up the kids and discover the many other experiences going on at this year’s fair. for a full schedule of events and actvities visit the website. Gates are open at 7am everday. General admission $7. Hancock County Fairgrounds, 1017 E. Sandusky St. 419-4297344. www.hancockfairgrounds.com—JG

1 WEDNESDAY Owls program and Full Sturgeon Moon Hike - Diane Myers of Black Swamp Raptor Rehab will be giving families and kids of all ages the chance to see a live owl program. A full moon hike will be open to anyone after the talk. 8pm. Riverbend Recreation Area, 16618 Township Road 208. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com Wood County Fair - Enjoy juggling performances, cheerleading competitions, food, rides and a musical performance by Gretchen Wilson ($20-$27.50). July 30-August 6. Gate admission begins at 8am. $6. Children 9 and under free. Wood County Fairgrounds, 13800 W. Poe Rd., Bowling Green. 419-352-0441. www.woodcounty-fair.com Pantasia Steel Drum Band - Bring the family down to see the world rhythms of the Pantasia Steel Drum Band as part of the 2012 Riverside Summer Concert Series. 7:30pm. Free. Riverside Park Shelter #2, 231 McManness Ave. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com LIKE US ON

FACEBOOK!

3 FRIDAY Rib Off on Broadway! - Have a finger-lickin’ good time at the Rib Off on Broadway! Come out and taste some of the best ribs in the area, plus delicious side dishes and food from local eateries. 5-11:30pm. Admission $5. $3 for kids 12 and under. Children in strollers free. Broadway St., Downtown Findlay. 419-422-3412. www.artspartnership.com

6 MONDAY Monarch, come play with me Learn all about caterpillars and butterflies at this kid-friendly story time. Kids will be able to observe caterpillars and maybe even see a Monarch butterfly release! Ages 3-6 with adult. Siblings welcome. 10-11am. Oakwoods, “Doc” Phillips Discovery Center, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com.

7 TUESDAY Teen Movie - Come out for a movie night with friends. An activity will follow. Parent permission is required. Popcorn and pop provided. 5:45-8pm. Free. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org

Cont. on pg 18

www.findlayfamily.com • August 2012 •

Cont. from pg 17 Garden Series: Soap making Soap making is a family tradition for the Diller family, and a profitable one at that! Come and listen to Pete Diller of Diller Farms as he gives a presentation on how soaps, lotions, and salves are made from his family’s 300 year old recipes. In addition, Pete Diller will also be explaining the key ingredients and herbs that go into his creations and how they work to clean and serve their topical purposes. 7-8pm. Litzenberg Memorial Woods, McKinnis House, 6100 U.S. Route 224. 419-4257275. www.hancockparks.com.

8 WEDNESDAY Sojourners - Bring the family down to hear great tunes from Sojourners as part of the 2012 Riverside Summer Concert Series. 7:30pm. Free. Riverside Park Shelter #2, 231 McManness Ave. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com

9 THURSDAY Eyes at Night Hike - Learn about why eyes seem to glow at night, then hike to find some in a game on the trail. Be sure to bring a flashlight! Keep your ears open for crickets, cicadas and other night creatures too. 8pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Lane, Findlay. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com

10 FRIDAY Rally in the Alley - Spend a relaxing evening taking in live music, food and beverages while unwinding with new and old friends. Willfull Blindness will be performing with food provided by Waldo Peppers. 5-8pm. Latham Courtyard, 500 block of S. Main St., Findlay. www.findlayhancockalliance.com Summerfest Art Gala 2012 - Come to this year’s Summerfest…You are sure to

have an ARTastic Time! Meet and talk with the artists and enjoy live entertainment along with games, door prizes and much more! Be sure to come out and see what the artists have been up to! 5:30-8:30pm. Kan Du Studio, 329 S. Main St. 419-581-0254

11 SATURDAY Perseid Meteor Shower - Experience the Perseid meteor shower like never before. Join Millstream Astronomy Club president Steve Rice as he discusses the celestial phenomenon. Come out and observe this natural wonder. Telescopes available for stargazing and planet watching. 9pm. Riverbend Recreation Area, 16618 Township Road 208. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com Art-See-Mart - This summer and fall, Art-See-Mart will allow consumers to do open-air shopping reminiscent of

European street markets. Local artists will display and sell their unique creations. Browse vendors from along Crawford Street. 10am-3pm. E. Crawford St.-W. Crawford St., Downtown Findlay. www.thegaslightgallery.net

14 TUESDAY Transitions: Middle and High School - This program delivers advice and pointers on what parents can do to help their children navigate the academic, social and emotional challenges they will face as they transition through middle and high school. For grades 6 to 12 and parents! 7-8pm. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org

15 WEDNESDAY Summer Carnival - The carnival is taking over Findlay! Free games, food, prizes and so much more will provide fun for the whole family! 5:30-7:30pm. Free. Riverside Park Shelter #2, 231 McManness Ave., Findlay. 419-4225415. www.campfireusa-nwohio.com

16 THURSDAY Hunger Games Fashion Design - It’s Hunger Games fashion time at the library. Make creations based on this hit movie, and they may be displayed on the Teen Art Wall. 1-2pm. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org Evening Canoe Float - Spend a relaxing evening on the water paddling through Riverside Park. Basic canoe instructions will be provided before the boat launch. All ages are welcome, but there must be one adult per canoe. $10 per canoe. Register in the park office by August 13. 7-9pm. Riverside Park, Zonta Landing, 231 McManness Ave. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com Simple Brown Bag Lunches - Eightythree percent of school age kids bring lunch from home at least once or twice a week. Liven up that lunch -- participants to learn new recipes and creative lunch ideas to ensure a healthy meal. For adults, registration required. 4:30-5:30pm. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org

18 SATURDAY 5th Annual Backstreet Festival Presented by the Hancock Historical Museum, enjoy antique cars and bicycles, horse drawn vehicles, quilt show, ice cream social and great music & entertainment. Also, go on museum and campus tours and delight in a delicious chicken BBQ. 11am-3pm. Hancock Historical Museum, 422 W. Sandusky St. 419-4234433. www.hancockhistoricalmuseum.org

19 SUNDAY Hands on Nature: Moles and Shrews - Learn all about the little critters who spend their time underground. Kids will have the chance to see what moles and shrews look like in this fun program for the whole family. 1-4pm. Oakwoods, “Doc” Phillips Discovery Center, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com.

• August 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

26 SUNDAY Hands on History: Open House Take a guided tour of the historic McKinnis house while getting a behind the scenes look at how the house was restored. Go back in time by exploring this 165 year old home. 1:30-4:30pm. Free. Litzenberg Memorial Woods, McKinnis House, 6100 U.S. Route 224. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com

30 THURSDAY Oilers Football - The University of Findlay kicks-off it’s new season against foes from Northern Michigan. Go online for the Oilers’ full schedule and ticket prices. 7pm. University of Findlay, Donnell Stadium, 1000 N. Main St. 419-4228313. www.athletics.findlay.edu

Free Classifieds:

Individuals may receive one free 20-word ad per month (products offered in ads must sell for under $100). Each additional word 40 cents, payment must accompany ad. Free ads run 1 month and are reserved for private-party’s use, noncommercial concerns and free services. Ads MUST be typed or neatly printed and MAILED, EMAILED, or DROPPED OFF to Findlay Area Family Classifieds by the15th of the month prior to publication.

HELP WANTED Freelance writers needed. Send

resume to: editor@findlayfamily.com

Drivers needed to deliver Findlay

Area Family in Findlay and surrounding areas: Once a month, great pay. Send resume to distribution@findlayfamily.com

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).

Mail or drop off:

Findlay Area Family Classifieds, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, Ohio 43604

Phone: 419-244-9859 Email: classifieds@findlayfamily.com Refunds: Sorry, NO REFUNDS given. Misprints: Credit toward future ads.

Earn $28,000

TRENDS! Too

We’ve turned downtown upside down! Feeling Stressed? Need to feel your best? You’re worth it! Call Licensed Massage Therapist

find us online @

Jackie Jones

419-420-9955

ABC’s Wife Swap Magicians

Birthdays • Banquets t Schools • Scouts • More!

419-472-4333

www.AndrewMartinMagic.com See w Public Shows every week. Andre ! i l E & Please call or email for details!

www.findlayfamily.com • August 2012 •

244.9859

By appointment only

419.

Nature 2.0: Insects vs. Spiders Ever wonder what the difference is between inspects and spiders? It’s more than just having a different number of legs. Come out and see what makes them different, while also learning about creatures you might think are inspects or spiders but aren’t. Must be 14 years or older. Register by calling the park’s office

ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE

515 S. Main, Findlay

22 WEDNESDAY

marketplace

children’s boutique!

Wee Ones: Bubbles, Bubbles Program includes a story, activities and a craft. Suggested items to bring: swim diaper, change of clothes, towel, etc. Recommended for children three years old and under with an adult companion. 10-11am. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, “Doc” Phillips Discovery Center, 1400 Oakwoods Lane, Findlay. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com

by August 20. 7pm. Free. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, “Doc” Phillips Discovery Center, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-4257275. www.hancockparks.com

Good for 20% off a reg. priced item.

20 MONDAY

to place your ad

• August 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

Free Classifieds:

HELP WANTED Freelance writers needed. Send

resume to: editor@findlayfamily.com

Drivers needed to deliver Findlay

Area Family in Findlay and surrounding areas: Once a month, great pay. Send resume to distribution@findlayfamily.com

Line Classifieds: Only $10 per month for 20

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).

Mail or drop off:

Findlay Area Family Classifieds, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, Ohio 43604

Phone: 419-244-9859 Email: classifieds@findlayfamily.com Refunds: Sorry, NO REFUNDS given. Misprints: Credit toward future ads.

Earn $28,000

TRENDS! Too

We’ve turned downtown upside down! Feeling Stressed? Need to feel your best? You’re worth it! Call Licensed Massage Therapist

find us online @

Jackie Jones

419-420-9955

ABC’s Wife Swap Magicians

Birthdays • Banquets t Schools • Scouts • More!

419-472-4333

www.AndrewMartinMagic.com See w Public Shows every week. Andre ! i l E & Please call or email for details!

www.findlayfamily.com • August 2012 •

244.9859

By appointment only

419.

ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE

515 S. Main, Findlay

22 WEDNESDAY

marketplace

children’s boutique!

by August 20. 7pm. Free. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, “Doc” Phillips Discovery Center, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-4257275. www.hancockparks.com

Good for 20% off a reg. priced item.

20 MONDAY

to place your ad

• August 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com