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Mercy Health Launches Human Trafficking Prevention Initiative

By
Laurie Bertke
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Along with providing therapy and advocacy for victims of crime and their loved ones, the Mercy Health Trauma Recovery Center (TRC) offers education, direct intervention and training to protect at-risk youth from becoming victims of human trafficking. Photo courtesy of Mercy Health

The Mercy Health Trauma Recovery Center (TRC) fields referrals every single day for victims of crime — including children. 

Staffed by a team of licensed social workers, clinical counselors and a certified court victim advocate, the Toledo TRC is the only Trauma Recovery Center of its kind in Northwest Ohio. 

The clinic’s certified trauma clinicians have accompanied about 2,000 victims on their healing journeys since its inception in 2018. The outpatient program at Mercy Health St. Vincent Medical Center provides trauma recovery services, clinical case management and advocacy for victims of all ages and their loved ones at no cost. 

Now, thanks to a two-year, $145,000 grant awarded by Gov. Mike DeWine, the TRC is expanding its focus to include education, direct intervention and training to prevent area youth from becoming victims of human trafficking. The grant awarded to Mercy Health is from a collaboration between the Governor’s Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force, the Ohio Children’s Trust Fund (OCTF), and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services’ (ODJFS) Children’s Justice Act Task Force.

“We were excited about this because it allows our team to shift from doing reactive services after a crime or victimization or trauma has happened,” said OraLee Macklenar, TRC supervisor. “It allows us to open up the scope of what we’re doing [with] prevention and training geared toward youth ages 11 to 17. It’s geared toward youth who most at risk for becoming victims of human trafficking.”

Protecting vulnerable youth

Many young people served by the TRC fall into a category that puts them at a higher risk, Macklenar explained. Vulnerable youth include those in the mental health or legal systems, children who are exposed to family violence and kids in foster care. 

Most of these kids have already experienced some kind of trauma, Macklenar explained, and it is essential to address that trauma to prevent them from falling into “more complex layers of victimization.”

The fundamental goals of the initiative are to promote safety, stabilization and engagement for the youth, to restore their faith in humanity and to build their sense of empowerment.

Macklenar noted the TRC uses the OCTF’s Human Trafficking Prevention Youth Curriculum, with services to prevent victimization among at-risk youth that include psychosocial support groups, psychotherapy and case management.

In addition to working directly with youth at its clinic, the TRC has presented the Human Trafficking Prevention Youth Curriculum to young people through a local high school and the Greater Toledo chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Macklenar said the TRC also receives patient referrals from the hospital and many community agencies, including the Victim-Witness Assistance program through the Lucas County Prosecutor’s Office.

Recognizing the signs of trafficking

In addition to youth services, the grant covered training for staff members from the TRC and the Lucas County Prosecutor’s Office Victim-Witness Assistance program as well as other community professionals to help them recognize the signs and symptoms of human trafficking in minors. 

“We are excited to be partnering with the Mercy Health Toledo Trauma Recovery Center on this initiative,” said Lucas County Prosecutor Julia Bates. “I think that anything we can do as a collaborative to help at-risk youth in our community we should make every effort to do. This is a community problem and together we can help with solutions, comfort, care and compassion.”

Macklenar related that this training increases the knowledge and awareness of professionals so they can better prevent young people from becoming the next victims. ”I think that it helps all of us that are trained in it to have a better recognition of what might potentially be in front of us,” said Macklenar. 

Dr. Lauren Czerniak, DDS, Recognized for Helping Populations with Disabilities

By
Emily Remaklus
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From a very young age, we are taught the importance of dental care. Brushing twice a day and flossing, as well as regular appointments with your dentist are important to help maintain a healthy smile and body. But for some Americans, a trip to the dentist is not so simple. Individuals on Medicaid, retirees, and adults with developmental disabilities can struggle to find a dentist that meets their financial and individual needs. Fortunately for Toledoans, The Dental Center of Northwest Ohio helps provide those individuals with proper dental care. And recently one of their dentists, Dr. Lauren Czerniak, was recognized by the Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities for her work with special needs patients. 

Meeting a need in the area

The Dental Center of Northwest Ohio was founded in 1910 to provide dental care for underserved individuals in the Toledo area. At that time, they were serving 500 people. As of today, their services have branched out to six practices, with two clinics in Toledo. Some of the services provided include cleanings, fillings, exams, oral surgeries, emergency care, extractions, crowns, and dentures. 

The organization also participates in many community events where they provide services. The annual Give Kids a Smile program provides children in need with free dental services. Staff members also travel to local schools, senior centers, and community centers to provide oral health education and sometimes perform free oral health screenings. Volunteer dentists participate in CareNet, a program that sponsors free adult dental services to those without insurance, often to those who are homeless.  

Dr. Lauren Czerniak, also known as Dr. Lauren by her patients, has been with the Dental Center of Northwest Ohio for fourteen years, including her time working with the center while in dental school. During her time with the Dental Center of Northwest Ohio, she saw a need in the area for dentists working with patients with disabilities. These patients might require more individual attention during their appointments due to physical disabilities, such as individuals in wheelchairs, as well as adults with developmental disabilities. For some of these patients, traveling to Columbus or other larger cities would likely be necessary to meet their needs if it were not for the work of the Dental Center of Northwest Ohio. 

In a recent interview, Dr. Lauren explained that while dental schools prepare dentists to work with special population patients, not all dentists are willing. This could be due to lack of experience treating this population, lack of accommodations, or not feeling comfortable. 

There are many accommodations that need to be considered when working with adults with physical or developmental disabilities, such as larger rooms with space for wheelchairs or gurneys, extra time to spend with the patient, knowing how to best explain procedures to the patient and/or caregiver, and providing just a little more TLC. 

A passion for the career

 

“Everyone deserves to have equal care. No one deserves to have better care than another person,” said Dr. Lauren.  And in order to provide that care, she finds a variety of ways to help each individual. She has cleaned teeth while sitting next to her patients on the floor, sang songs with her patients to keep them comfortable, figured out ways to make toothbrush handles fatter so that they’re easier to grip, used x-ray shields as a weighted blanket to calm her patients, and more. And although working with these patients may require a little extra time and understanding, the outcome is worth it. 

 

“They’re super super appreciative,” Dr. Lauren explained. It is evident how much Dr. Lauren enjoys her job and working with her patients. “I really enjoy what I do. I live an hour and 10 minutes away from Toledo, and I drive an hour and 10 minutes each way because if I don’t, who will? You don’t go into dentistry for the money, you go into dentistry because you care about the people.” 

Toledo Parent 2021 Family Favorites Results

By
Toledo Parent Staff
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Every year, thousands of Toledo Parent readers cast votes for the businesses, places, and people they love. Readers rely on the voting results to help them choose pediatricians, find the perfect birthday venue, grab the most delicious meal and much more. We are honored that you let your voices be heard with support for your favorite area institutions. Here are the Toledo Area Parent Family Favorites selected for 2021!

Places and Spaces

Overnight Trip with the Kids

WINNER: Sauder Village
22611 OH-2, Archbold
419-446-2541
saudervillage.org

If you’re planning on a quick overnight trip chock full of fun, Sauder Village is an excellent option. Not only does the destination offer food and activities, but your kids will learn so much about history here. From the 1920s Main Street, complete with a meticulously recreated soda shop, movie theater, candy shop and more, to other exhibits and stores focused on early Ohio settlers, you could easily spend a whole weekend at Sauder Village.

RUNNER-UP: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
childrensmuseum.org

Family Activity

WINNER: Toledo Zoo
2 Hippo Way
419-385-4040
toledozoo.org 

Kids of all ages love the Zoo, and for good reason. The Toledo Zoo is one of the best in the nation, featuring more than 10,000 animals that your family can get up close and personal with. And with summertime events like Christmas in July, special events at the amphitheater, a splash pad and epic playground, petting zoo, and educational talks from the zookeepers, there are many reasons to “Zoo it” this season!

RUNNER UP: Urban Air Adventure Park
urbanair.com/ohio-toledo

Family Day Trip

WINNER: Toledo Zoo
2 Hippo Way
419-385-4040
toledozoo.org

RUNNER UP: Country Lane Tree Farm
countrylanetreefarm.com

Favorite Library Branch

WINNER: King Road Branch
3900 King Rd.
419-259-5380
toledolibrary.org

RUNNER UP: Main Branch

Indoor Playspace
WINNER: Imagination Station
1 Discovery Way
419-244-2674
imaginationstationtoledo.org 

When families come to Toledo, one of the very first attractions they visit is Imagination Station. Regardless of the weather, the kids will never get bored inside this science center. From 3D movies and interactive exhibits to a children’s play area featuring a miniature hospital and grocery store, there’s an abundance of things to do. With frequently updated exhibits and even a baby room for the littlest ones to explore, it is truly a spot to spend the day with the whole family.

RUNNER UP: Country Lane Tree Farm

countrylanetreefarm.com

Place to Worship

WINNER: Cedar Creek Church
Locations in South and West Toledo, Perrysburg, Findlay, Oregon, and Whitehouse
419-661- 8661 (Perrysburg location)
cedarcreek.tv

RUNNER UP: St. Joseph Catholic Church, Sylvania
stjoessylvania.org

Kid-Friendly Museum

WINNER: Imagination Station
1 Discovery Way
419-244-2674
imaginationstationtoledo.org 

RUNNER UP: Toledo Museum of Art
toledomuseum.org 

Sporting Event for Families

WINNER: Toledo Mud Hens
Fifth Third Field, 406 Washington St.
419-725-4367
milb.com/toledo

RUNNER UP: Toledo Walleye Hockey
toledowalleye.com

Place to Volunteer

WINNER: Ronald McDonald House
3883 Monroe St.
419-471-4663
rmhctoledo.org

RUNNER UP: Toledo Humane Society
toledohumane.org

Animal Encounters

WINNER: Toledo Zoo
2 Hippo Way
419-385-4040
toledozoo.org

RUNNER UP: Country Lane Tree Farm
countrylanetreefarm.com

Garden/Nature Center

WINNER: Toledo Botanical Garden
5403 Elmer Dr.
419-270-7500
metroparkstoledo.com

 

One of the Glass City’s most powerful and breathtaking views, the Toledo Botanical Garden offers 60 acres of quiet beauty. A place to learn about gardening and perennials, remarkable pieces in the Artisan Village, the Secret Forest play area for kids and the new Doneghy Inclusive Garden, the Botanical Garden delivers unforgettable experiences for all ages.

RUNNER UP: The 577 Foundation
577foundation.org

TIME TO PARTY

Party Entertainment

WINNER: Country Lane Tree Farm
3525 N. Bolander Rd., Genoa
419-461-1298
countrylanetreefarm.com

RUNNER UP: Laurel’s Princess Parties
laurelsprincessparties.com

Place to Buy a Birthday Cake

WINNER: Wixey Bakery
2017 Glendale Ave.
419-382-6684
facebook.com/wixeybakery

RUNNER UP: 7 Little Cupcakes
7littlecupcakes.com

Locally owned place to buy a gift

WINNER: Fiddlestix Boutique
5693 Main St., Sylvania. 419-386-2812
4165 Chappel Dr., Perrysburg. 419-931-2022
fiddlestixboutique.com 

RUNNER UP: Buff City Soap
toledooh.buffcitysoap.com

Place for an indoor birthday bash

WINNER: Urban Air Adventure Park
5243 Airport Hwy.
419-962-3257
urbanair.com/ohio-toledo

RUNNER UP: Country Lane Tree Farm
countrylanetreefarm.com

Place for an Outdoor Birthday Bash

WINNER: Country Lane Tree Farm
3525 N. Bolander Rd., Genoa
419-461-1298
countrylanetreefarm.com

RUNNER UP: Wildwood Preserve Metropark
metroparkstoledo.com

DELICIOUS EATS

Cupcakes/Bakery

WINNER: Natalie’s Cake Library
nataliescakelibrary.com

RUNNER UP: 7 Little Cupcakes
7littlecupcakes.com

Candy Shop

WINNER: Boyd’s Retro Candy Store
954 Phillips Ave.
419-720-7387
boydsretrocandy.com

RUNNER UP: Maumee Valley Chocolate and Candy
valleycandy.com

Family Friendly Restaurant

WINNER: Inside the Five Brewing Company
5703 Main St., Sylvania
567-408-7212
insidethefivebrewing.com

RUNNER UP: Charlie’s Homemade Ice Cream & Burgers
charlieshomemadeicecream.com

Healthy Family Restaurant

WINNER: Balance Pan-Asian Grille
2515 N. Summit St.
419-243-2222

5860 Central Ave.
419-243-7777

26520 N. Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg
419-874-7777
balancegrille.com

All three Balance locations offer up delicious and healthy choices for your family. With an amazing selection of snacks, bowls, tacos and more, there are few options that are better (or better for you) than Balance. Their downtown location is the site of an incredible hydroponic system where they grow microgreens, and more, on a large scale. They are committed to freshness in everything they serve!

RUNNER UP: Blue Pacific Grill Perrysburg
thebluepacificgrill.com

Healthy Fast Food

WINNER: Balance Pan-Asian Grille
2515 N. Summit St.
419-243-2222

5860 Central Ave.
419-243-7777

26520 N. Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg
419-874-7777
balancegrille.com

RUNNER UP: Tropical Smoothie Cafe
tropicalsmoothiecafe.com

Kid Friendly Coffee Shop

WINNER: Georgette’s Grounds & Gifts
311 Conant St., Maumee
419-891-8888
georgettes.org

RUNNER UP: Papa Moose’s Donuts
papamoosesdonuts.com

Frozen Treats Shop

WINNER: Mr. Freeze
2031 N. McCord Rd.
627 W. South Boundary St., Perrysburg.
facebook.com/mymrfreeze

 

For many in Northwest Ohio, it’s not summer until they visit Mr. Freeze. For over half a century, the ice creamery has served its trademark sundaes, shakes and more to happy patrons. Visit Mr. Freeze and prepare to be overwhelmed by generous portions and cold deliciousness. 

RUNNER UP: Odd Fodder

oddfodder.com

Local Pizza Place

WINNER: PizzAroma
4444 Keystone Dr. #C, Maumee
8555 S. Holland-Sylvania Rd.
419-887-6000
pizzaromamenu.com

RUNNER UP: Charlie’s Homemade Pizza & Italian Cuisine
charlieshomemadepizza.com

Place where kids eat free

WINNER: Charlie’s Restaurant
6945 W. Central Ave.
419-841-5326

12407 Airport Hwy., Swanton
419-825-2076

1631 Toll Gate Dr., Maumee
419-794-7870
charliesoftoledo.com

RUNNER UP: Fricker’s
frickers.com

SHOP LOCAL

Locally owned place to buy kids’ clothing

WINNER: Once Upon a Child
142 E. South Boundary St., Perrysburg
419-874-3606
onceuponachild.com

RUNNER UP: Bowinkle’s
bowinklesboutique.com

Mom-owned business

WINNER: 7 Little Cupcakes
25661 Ft. Meigs Rd., Ste. D., Perrysbur
419-252-0858
7littlecupcakes.com

RUNNER UP: That Glow Tho. Spray Tan & Sun Shop
thatglowtho.com

Places to Get a Kid’s Haircut

WINNER: Cookie Cutter’s Haircuts for Kids
25684 N. Dixie Hwy., Perrysburg
419-279-2631
haircutsarefun.com

RUNNER UP: The Choice Salon
Search The Choice Salon on Facebook

Family Photographer

WINNER: Galati Photography LLC
24186 Front St., Grand Rapids, OH
419-830-3040
galatiphoto.com

RUNNER UP: Courtney Lee Photography
courtneyleephotography45.mypixieset.com

Bike Shop

WINNER: Wersell’s Bike & Ski Shop
2860 Central Ave.
419-474-7412
wersellsbikeshop.com

RUNNER UP: Cycle Werks
shopcyclewerks.com

Place to Buy Children’s Books

WINNER: Learning Express
Promenade Shops, 5577 Monroe St., Sylvania
419-885-3959
learningexpress.com

RUNNER UP: Encore Books
encorebookstol.com

DIGITAL AGE

Local Parent Facebook Group

WINNER: Toledo Thrifty Moms
facebook.com/groups/toledothriftymoms

RUNNER UP: Mothers Helping Mothers Toledo
Search “Mothers Helping Mothers Toledo” on Facebook

Local Online Influencer

WINNER: Mom on the Go in Holy Toledo
momonthegoinholytoledo.com

WATCH ME SOAR

Preschool

WINNER: Elizabeth Wayne Preschool
310 Elizabeth St., Maumee
419-893-3383
stpaulsmaumee.org/ewpreschool

RUNNER UP: Hope Preschool and Childcare
hopechildcareoh.com 

Teacher

WINNER: Jaclyn Willman, Northwest Ohio Classical Academy

RUNNER UP: Marissa Minnick-Metcalf, St. Joseph Catholic Church

School Principal

WINNER: Cristy Seely, Elizabeth Wayne Preschool
RUNNER UP: Robb Brown, Springfield Local

Elementary School

WINNER: West Side Montessori
7115 W. Bancroft St.
419-866-1931
montessoritoledo.org

RUNNER UP: Waterville Primary School
anthonywayneschools.org

Middle School

WINNER: Fallen Timbers Middle School
6119 Finzel Rd., Whitehouse
419-877-0601
anthonywayneschools.org

RUNNER UP: West Side Montessori
montessoritoledo.org

Charter School

WINNER: Northwest Ohio Classical Academy
5025 Glendale Ave.
567-420-6180
nocacademy.org

RUNNER UP: Toledo School for the Arts
ts4arts.org

Parochial School

WINNER: St. Joan of Arc School
5950 Heatherdowns Blvd.
419-866-6177
joanofarcschool.org

RUNNER UP: Notre Dame Academy
nda.org

Private School

WINNER: St. Joseph’s Maumee
104 W. Broadway St., Maumee
419-893-3304
stjosephmaumee.org

RUNNER UP: Notre Dame Academy
nda.org

After-School Program

WINNER: Girls on the Run
6024 Renaissance Pl.
419-318-9211
girlsontherun.org

RUNNER UP: YMCA of Greater Toledo
ymcatoledo.org

Tutoring Center

WINNER: Huntington Learning Center
6638 Centers Dr., Holland
419-867-4000
huntingtonhelps.com

RUNNER UP: Sylvan Learning
sylvanlearning.com

Special Needs Service

WINNER: Ability Center of Greater Toledo
5605 Monroe St., Sylvania
419-885-5733
abilitycenter.org 

The Ability Center of Greater Toledo (ACT) offers many resources to help kids with disabilities thrive, but the Center is also instrumental in making sure that our city is the most accessible it can possibly be. The organization provides therapy dogs, help with home accessibility, referrals, and a youth transition program to help with independent living. Visit their website to read more about the incredible work they do in our community.

RUNNER UP: Help Me Grow— Lucas County
helpmegrow.org

Daycare

WINNER: Children’s Discovery Center
Various locations
419-867-8570
childrensdiscoverycenters.com

RUNNER UP: Over the Rainbow Early Learning Center Springfield
otrelc.com/

ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES

Places for Crafting
WINNER: Toledo Museum of Art Family Center
2445 Monroe St.
419-255-8000
toledomuseum.org

RUNNER UP: Copper Moon Studio
coppermoonstudio.com

Acting and Theatre Classes

WINNER: Children’s Theatre Workshop
2417 Collingwood Blvd.
419-244-5061
ctwtoledo.org

RUNNER UP: Toledo Repertoire Theatre
toledorep.org

Dance Studio

WINNER: Toledo Ballet
5327 Monroe St.
419-471-0049
toledoballet.com

RUNNER UP: Mini Motions Dance Center
minimotionsdance.com

Kids Art Class

WINNER: Toledo Museum of Art
2445 Monroe St.
419-255-8000
toledomuseum.org

Whether you want your kids to learn from home or have a hands-on experience, there are few resources for artistic education quite like TMA. Students as young as six can sign up for courses in a wide variety of disciplines, and the Museum’s annual summer camps offer wonderful off-school experiences as well.

RUNNER UP: Paint Your Place by Jessica Mack
facebook.com/PaintYourPlaceByJessicaMack

Gymnastics Class

WINNER: Sunrise Gymnastics Academy
3640 N. Holland Sylvania Rd.
419-841-2902
sunrisegymnastics.com

RUNNER UP: Exceleration Gymnastics Center
excelerationgymnastics.com

Music Lessons

WINNER: Forté Music School
3208 W. Sylvania Ave.
419-471-2100
fortemusicandarts.com

Name any instrument, and Forté likely offers lessons for it. No matter what your child wants to learn, no matter how much experience they have, no matter whether they will take lessons in person or online— Forté is your go-to destination. With dozens of professional teachers on staff and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s clear why Forté has been a staple as the best place for music lessons for years.

RUNNER UP: The Studio Connection
studioconnection.net

Martial Arts Program

WINNER: Rudo Jiu-Jitsu
5810 Southwyck Blvd.
419-932-0786
rudojiujitsu.com

RUNNER UP: Jon Penny’s Black Belt Academy
jpblackbeltacademy.com

Swim Lessons

WINNER: SafeSplash + SwimLabs
1510 Spring Meadows Dr. #D-100, Holland
419-370-2801
safesplash.com

RUNNER UP: Swim with Kym
swimwithkym.com

Horseback Lessons

WINNER: Hunter’s Run
9241 Secor Rd., Temperance, MI
734-856-2404
huntersrunmhja.com

RUNNER UP: Country Lane Tree Farm
countrylanetreefarm.com

DOCTOR’S ORDERS

Pediatric Practice

WINNER: ProMedica Physicians Perrysburg Pediatrics
1601 Brigham Dr. #200, Perrysburg
419-872-7700
promedica.org

RUNNER UP: PediatriCare Associates
facebook.com/PediatriCareToledo

Urgent Care

WINNER: ProMedica Urgent Care
Various locations
promedica.org

RUNNER UP: Sylvania Urgent Care
sylvaniaurgentcare.com/

Place to Give Birth

WINNER: ProMedica Toledo Hospital
2142 N. Cove Blvd.
promedica.org


Nearly half the babies born in our area are born at ProMedica Toledo Hospital. Featuring spacious rooms for labor, delivery and recovery, the hospital also hosts a level 3 perinatal unit, specifically for high-risk births. Also featured are a variety of childbirth classes and postpartum support groups.

RUNNER UP: McLaren St. Luke’s
mclaren.org

OB/GYN

WINNER: Ann Rhee, MD, ProMedica Physicians Sunforest Obstetrics and Gynecology
5700 Monroe St., Ste. 303, Sylvania
419-473-6622
promedica.org 

RUNNER UP: Kristel Ward, ProMedica Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology – Maumee
promedica.org 

Midwife

WINNER: Christine McBride, CNM, ProMedica Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology 2751 Bay Park Dr., #300, Oregon
419-690-8880
promedica.org

RUNNER UP: Melanie Miller, CNM, ProMedica Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology – Sylvania
promedica.org

Family Doctor

WINNER: Dr. Travis Rasor, DO, Fallen Timbers Family Physicians
5705 Monclova Rd., Maumee
419-893-3321
mclaren.org 

RUNNER UP: Dr. Paul Schultz, MD, UT Physicians
utmc.utoledo.edu

ENT Doctor

WINNER: Dr. Jay Jindal, MD, ProMedica Physicians
5700 Monroe St., Ste. 310, Sylvania
419-578-7555
promedica.org 

RUNNER UP: Dr. Stephanie Cole, MD, ProMedica Physicians
promedica.org

Optometrist/Ophthalmologist

WINNER: Dr. Jenna Bailey, OD, ProMedica Vision Associates
3330 Meijer Dr.
419-578-2020
visionassociates.net

RUNNER UP: Dr. Robert K. Rhee, MD, Pediatric Ophthalmology Consultants
pocllc.com

Chiropractor

WINNER: Innate Health Chiropractic
26580 N. Dixie Hwy #101, Perrysburg
419-872-2255
getinnatehealth.com 

RUNNER UP: Dr. Bryan Royer, DC, Harmony Chiropractic Center, Inc.
besttoledochiropractor.com

Allergist

WINNER: Dr. M. Razi Rafeeq, ProMedica Physicians
1050 Isaac Streets Dr. #128, Oregon
419-693-2230
promedica.org 

RUNNER UP: Promedica Physicians Allergy and Immunology
promedica.org

Pediatric Dentist

WINNER: Dr. Erin Knierim, pediatric dentist
3036 W. Sylvania Ave.
419-474-0733
drknierim.com

RUNNER UP: Sylvania Pediatric Dental Care
sylvaniapediatricdentalcare.com

Family Dentist
WINNER: Dr. Jon Frankel, Jon Frankel Dentistry
5012 Talmadge Rd.
419-474-9611

4359 Keystone Dr., Maumee
419-893-0221
jonfrankeldentistry.com 

RUNNER UP: Maley Family Dental
maleyfamilydental.com

Orthodontist

WINNER: HLS Orthodontics
Various locations
perfectbraces.com

RUNNER UP: Dr. Sheila Phelan, DDS, Phelan Orthodontics
mylocalortho.com/dr-sheila-phelan

Speech/Language Therapy

WINNER: HopeBridge Autism Therapy Center
1900 Indian Wood Circle, Ste. 100, Maumee
419-830-0078
hopebridge.com

RUNNER UP: Toledo Pediatric Speech Therapy
toledospeechtherapy.com 

Family Mental Health and Counseling Services

WINNER: The Willow Center
5565 Airport Hwy #100
419-720-5800
willowcenter.com

RUNNER UP: Drescher and Associates Clinical Services, LLC
dreschertherapy.com

Natural Homeopathic Health

WINNER: Dr. Maleigha Watts, Toledo Naturopathic
13 S. 3rd St., Waterville
419-376-6104
toledonaturopathic.com 

A graduate of the University of Toledo, Dr. Watts has been guiding Toledo patients through the world of naturopathic medicine for a decade. Watts’ personal approach to care has clearly made an impression on area voters. Her patients rely on her for natural, holistic treatments through non-invasive care.

RUNNER UP: ProMedica Natural Wellness

promedicanaturalwellnessshop.com

Veterinarian

WINNER: Heatherdowns Veterinary Clinic
2454 Cass Rd.
419-385-0325
heatherdownsvetclinic.com 

RUNNER UP: West Suburban Animal Hospital
westsuburbananimalhospital.com

GET ACTIVE

Place to Go Ice Skating

WINNER: Sylvania Tam-O-Shanter
7060 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania
419-885-1167
sylvaniatamoshanter.com

RUNNER UP: Ottawa Park Ice Rink
ottawapark.org

Place to Play Mini-Golf

WINNER: Sportway of Toledo
5950 Angola Rd.
419-867-3895
sportwayinc.com

RUNNER UP: Perry Falls Mini Golf
facebook.com/perryfallsminigolf

Park or playground

WINNER: Wildwood Preserve Metropark
5100 Central Ave.
419-407-9700
metroparkstoledo.com

The reason why you’ll often find people doing photoshoots at Wildwood Preserve Metropark: The varied and scenic backdrops available in the Park. Taking a stroll through the woods brings such a sense of peace while you’re getting your steps in, and the playground is full of fun features for kids of all ages to enjoy for hours. Wildwood Manor is a beautiful experience — make sure to take a tour and explore the surrounding gardens!

RUNNER UP: Toledo Botanical Gardens
metroparkstoledo.com 

Waterpark

WINNER: Great Wolf Lodge
4600 Milan Rd., Sandusky
800-641-9653
greatwolf.com

RUNNER UP: Kalahari Resorts Sandusky
kalahariresorts.com 

Family Friendly Gym/Fitness Club

WINNER: Sylvania YMCA/JCC
6465 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania
419-855-4485
ymcatoledo.org 

No matter your age or the intensity of your desired workout, the YMCA offers fitness options for everyone. With a variety of group exercise classes and programs, for something more challenging  the Y offers sessions with personal trainers who tailor workouts to individual needs. The Sylvania YMCA/JCC turns out to be a local favorite among all the other locations, so make sure to check out their amazing facility!

RUNNER UP: YMCA of Greater Toledo
ymcatoledo.org

Soccer Program

WINNER: Pacesetter Soccer Club
5400 Central Ave.
419-885-3140
pacesettersoccer.com

RUNNER UP: Springfield Futbol Club
springfieldfc.club

Youth Sports League

WINNER: YMCA of Greater Toledo
Various Locations
ymcatoledo.org

RUNNER UP: Anthony Wayne Youth Foundation
awcommunity.net 

Sports Camp

WINNER: Sylvania Recreation District
7060 Sylvania Ave., Sylvania
419-882-1500
playsylvania.com

RUNNER UP: Anthony Wayne High School Girls Lacrosse Camp
anthonywayneschools.org

Summer Day Camp

WINNER: Country Lane Tree Farm
3525 N. Bolander Rd., Genoa
419-461-1298
countrylanetreefarm.com

RUNNER UP: Toledo Zoo
toledozoo.org

ME TIME

Date Night

WINNER: Mancy’s Steakhouse
953 Phillips Ave.
419-476-4154
mancyssteakhouse.com

RUNNER UP: Benchmark Restaurant
benchmark-restaurant.com

Girls’ Night Out

WINNER: Urban Pine Winery
3415 Briarwood Blvd., Maumee
567-703-1281
urbanpinewinery.com

RUNNER UP: Hollywood Casino Toledo
hollywoodcasinotoledo.com

Workout for Mom

WINNER: Renegade Fitness
4101 King Rd., Sylvania
419-517-4654
renegadefitnesstraining.com

RUNNER UP: Fitness 4 All
fitness4alltoledo.com

Spa Day for Mom

WINNER: Serenity Health & Wellness Center
1685 Lance Pointe Rd., Maumee
419-891-2181
serenitywellness1.com 

Serenity Health & Wellness is a med-spa with the ideal setting for Mom to unwind. You can spend your day getting a facial and massage, or book an acupuncture session and foot detoxification. Their list of services is extensive, so make sure to browse your options on their website, and don’t forget to check out their special packages and deals!

RUNNER UP: Open Arms Wellness Center & Yoga Loft
openarmsmassagestudio.com

Ottawa Park Ice Rink Open for Inline and Roller Skating

By
Grace Zurawski
-
Photo by Laura Stanley

The Ottawa Park Ice Rink, typically known for winter recreation, is now open for year-round skating fun after receiving a seasonally-appropriate makeover. Transformed into an inline and roller skating rink for the summer season, the outdoor rink is a perfect way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air with friends and family in beautiful Ottawa Park.

The skating rink has scheduled an array of themed nights for skaters, including Motown Night on July 8, Pajama Party on July 22, and Fiesta Night on August 5. Music, decorations, and costumes will complete the experience.

Even if you’re not going on a theme night, the rink can be a blast any day. There is no group limit, making it an ideal location for families, or larger groups like birthday parties. Reservations are not needed, but groups of 10 or more are advised to call ahead at 419-936-2700 to avoid wait times and assure the needed amount of rental skates are available. 

The rink is open to all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned inline-skater, or trying out roller skates for the first time. Both inline and roller skates will be available to rent, though there is a limited amount, so those who own skates are encouraged to bring them along. 

The Ottawa Park Ice Rink is located at 2015 Parkside Drive in Toledo. The rink is now open on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 12-4pm and Wednesdays and Fridays from 5-9pm. This inline and roller skating opportunity is only open through August 19, so make sure to visit the rink and have fun while being active this summer!

Changes coming to McLaren St. Luke’s: Birth and labor services coming to an end

By
Emily Remaklus
-

McLaren St. Luke’s, located in Maumee, has served expectant mothers for the past 25 years. As of this September, however, that service will end. The hospital announced at the end of May that it will be closing the Holland and Perrysburg obstetrics physician offices, and labor and deliveries will come to an end at the hospital between August 31 and September 30 of this year. 

While this was a difficult decision for the hospital to make, it seemed to be the best course of action due to continuing challenges from COVID-19, a national healthcare staffing shortage, and the exclusion from Paramount Insurance product. Jennifer Montgomery, McLaren St. Luke’s President and CEO, made the following statement: “We made every effort to avoid eliminating the program, but the loss of a large managed care health plan and other economic conditions have significantly reduced the number of patients who choose McLaren St. Luke’s for birthing services.” 

In addition to the loss of a health plan and economic conditions, there has also been a decrease in birth rates in Lucas County. For several years the rates in the county have been trending downward with a 40 percent decline in March. The hospital saw a 20-30 percent decrease once the service became out of network with Paramount at the start of 2022. 

Still committed to high-quality care

Many departments in the hospital have been restructured since the start of 2021 by reassigning employees to areas that have a higher need. The chief medical officer at McLaren St. Luke’s, Stephen Bazeley, MD., stated, “They [adults and seniors in Northwest Ohio] know and trust us for high-quality services like cardiovascular care and open-heart surgery, spine and neurological care, robotic surgery, and orthopedic services. We are committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care and continuing to be a partner to the communities we serve.”  

Although McLaren St. Luke’s will no longer be offering birthing and delivery services, many other area hospitals continue to provide this type of care. Montgomery explained, “A number of local hospitals have larger obstetrics programs, NICU and Special Care nurseries, as well as pediatrics services that make them the choice of many families in the area.” 

Some additional points McLaren St. Luke’s wanted to share:

  • Moving forward, expectant mothers will continue to have a choice for obstetrics care at several hospitals within a 15-mile radius of McLaren St. Luke’s.
  • Obstetrics patients currently in the care of McLaren St. Luke’s physicians will be contacted directly. Patients with questions should contact their primary OB/GYN provider.
  • McLaren St. Luke’s will continue to provide mammography and other radiology services.
  • Patients experiencing a medical emergency – obstetrics-related or otherwise – should not hesitate to visit the McLaren St. Luke’s emergency room after the family birthing center closure. The hospital has an experienced emergency department team trained to provide emergency medical care and, if needed, will make arrangements for a transfer.

What’s Your Child’s Learning Style?

By
Sarah Lyons
-

Does your child love reading and writing? Do they have a knack for music? When they tell a story, do they tend to use their whole body to describe what happened? Are they drawn to groups, or do they prefer to work alone? These traits can provide clues about your child’s learning style — the method a person should use to optimize learning. It’s important for parents to understand their child’s learning style so that they can help them find study methods, environments, and activities that help them learn best. Below are the different styles of learning that might apply to your own kiddo.

Visual

Visual learners prefer seeing pictures and images to learn new things. They usually have good spatial awareness skills. Kids with this learning style understand maps and have a good sense of direction. They usually love doodling and drawing. Study habits best for these learners are to write information down, underline or highlight as they read, use colorful diagrams, charts, and pictures to enable them to visualize what they want to remember.

Auditory

People who are auditory learners are typically drawn to music. They may sing, play a musical instrument, or have the ability to easily identify individual musical instruments from a song. They may hum, sing, or tap their feet while they work. Using music and rhythm to remember information can be helpful for kids who have this learning style. It might also be helpful to record and play back things you want to remember, or read and recite information aloud.

Verbal

Kids with a verbal learning style can easily express themselves in both speaking and written communication. Verbal learners have a strong understanding of the meaning of words and will consistently seek out new words to master which they will later use to communicate with others. Try using acronyms or reading information aloud while learning new things. Role playing can also be helpful for the verbal learning style.

Physical 

Kids who prefer using their bodies, hands, and sensory touch prefer the physical learning style. Many of these learners enjoy drama, dancing, woodworking, or exercise. They would rather go for a run or walk when something is bothering them than sit at home and think it through. These kids use hand gestures and body language to communicate and are very aware of the world around them. Sitting and listening to a lecture can be a challenge for kids who prefer a physical learning style, so they will often fidget and look forward to when they can move around. Try actually incorporating the physical objects they are learning about or allowing movement whenever possible. Writing, drawing, and using flashcards can also be helpful for kids who have this learning style. Frequent breaks can help the physical learner feel more prepared for study time. You can also try standing while reading, using a computer for studying, or making a review into a gross-motor style game.

Logical

Kids with a logical learning style generally excel in math and critical thinking. They can recognize patterns and commonalities in seemingly unrelated content. They often understand and work complex calculations in their head. Problems are usually tackled in a systematic way, and they enjoy creating lists, agendas, charts, and procedures. Kids with this learning style will retain information if they understand the logic behind it. They need not simply memorize information but truly understand the concepts and reasons for the information to retain them long term.

Social

People who are drawn to the social learning style love working in groups or participating in classes. They enjoy sharing their ideas with others and listening to what others think. Kids with this learning style are good at both verbal and nonverbal communication and understand others as well. People typically like being around the social learner and seek their input when faced with problems. They prefer to work through challenges in a group and will often be found staying after class to chat with friends. Kids with this learning style will enjoy role playing, studying in groups, or sharing what they have learned with others. 

Solitary 

Solitary learners often prefer working alone and enjoy quiet reflection. They tend to be independent, introspective, and private. They are good at focusing on a task and have strong concentration skills. They may also enjoy keeping a journal to reflect on personal thoughts and feelings. Kids with this learning style prefer to study alone in quiet spaces.

 Why does it matter?

Understanding your child’s learning style is important so you can help them get the most out of their education while identifying possible challenges that may arise for them. Also, parents can use this to their advantage to appeal to their child’s interests when learning new things.  

Don’t be surprised if your child seems to have a combination of learning styles, which is very common. When caring adults understand a child’s strengths and weaknesses when it comes to learning, it can only improve their experience at school and their study habits at home.

Possible Careers by Learning Style

  • Visual – Artist, architect, photographer, filmmaker, interior designer, strategic planner, graphic designer, and navigator
  • Auditory – Performing, conducting and/or composing music, sound engineering, and interpreting
  • Verbal – Law, public speaking, politics, speech pathology, and journalism
  • Physical – Construction, sports, dance, drama, mechanics, farming, and handy work
  • Logical – Science, mathematics, engineering, accounting, detective work, and computer programing
  • Social – Counseling, coaching, teaching, human resources, and sales
  • Solitary – Researcher, author, park ranger, and security guard

Sources for study habits based on learning styles

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