If you’re sick of folding endless piles of laundry, you may love Tidy Snap as much as we do.
This fun new product is a clothes organization solution that rolls clothes using snap bands (think of those snap bracelets from the 90s!). The Tidy Snap board rolls clothes perfectly in seconds. $9.95 for a 10 pack.
Available at tidysnap.com
Get ready for summer this winter! The Josh Project is offering winter swim lessons for children ages 6 to 16. Lessons are $15 per student. Children will learn swimming basics in a fun, safe environment. Registration is required.
The Josh Project
2145 E. Scott Park Dr.
567-43-0766 | joshproject.org
Join Toledo’s new leader, Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz, for a Free Family Fun Day celebrating Our City Our Future, during his Inaugural Weekend. Enjoy live performances— featuring choirs, comedy, singers, actors, and poets— from local schools and art organizations. Help artist Maura Amato color in a four-foot long paint-by-numbers mural, to be kept in the Mayor’s Office. Get a checkup with a wide variety of free health screenings available from ProMedica and other partners. Explore interactive and educational stations from The Toledo Zoo, Children’s Theatre Workshop, The Toledo Lucas County Public Library, the Toledo Museum of Art, plus more. Come celebrate our city’s exciting future with this full day of free community activities, food, entertainment, hosted by the Kapszukiewicz Family and Toledo Area Parent News.
1:30-5pm. Sunday, January 21.
Toledo Lucas County Public Library
325 N. Michigan St. | ourcityourfuture.org
Schools supply numerous resources to our children these days, including basic essentials like food. Thousands of children in our area are on free or reduced-priced meals, and many schools provide both breakfast and lunch. However, it’s a long stretch until breakfast, and during the summer months, those children no longer have dependable sources of sustenance from the school.
Connecting Kids to Meals fills in the gaps for those kids. “We provide an immediate solution to an epidemic in this community— hunger. People don’t realize how many kids go hungry every day,” said Wendi Huntley, President.
Huntley describes Connecting Kids to Meals as a “hunger relief organization.” During the school week, the program provides dinners for thousands of children. However, on the weekends and during holidays, the need is greater. Huntley adds, “It’s a serious problem in the summer months; we have 17,000 kids who rely on those meals.”
When school is not in session, Huntley’s program provides approximately 6,000 meals a day, delivering to homeless shelters, churches, libraries, community centers, the Boys & Girls Club— anywhere kids congregate.
“During the academic year, we partner with after-school programs like tutoring or chess club,” Huntley said. “We feed their little bellies so their minds can be fed.”
Huntley grew up in Toledo and attended Notre Dame Academy before studying at BGSU. She moved to Columbus to attend OSU College of Law and practiced law in our state’s capital for 25 years. Her work with hunger began when she “had an opportunity through church to get involved with hunger and homelessness.”
When she moved back to Toledo, she started working part-time with Feeding Lucas County, the former name of the organization, which quickly grew to full-time position where she urges recognition of the rampant hunger epidemic: “Our community hasn’t been able to bounce back economically like some other cities, and our goal is to reach as many kids who are struggling with hunger as possible. We’ve got to grow our footprint and the number of kids’ lives we can touch.”
The number of children on free/reduced-priced lunches is surprising. “Washington Local has 60%, Maumee has 33%, TPS has 80%, and Bowling Green has over 90%,” cites Huntley. “Rural areas, like Otsego and Anthony Wayne, are lower, but when 25% of the community is living in poverty, what are you to do when they aren’t as closely located to resources that can provide them with meals?”
Connecting Kids to Meals staff routinely hear heartwarming stories about the impact of their work. One story, from a single father of three in Bowling Green, Huntley recounts, “(he) came in with his three children during the summer. He sat to the side while the kids ate. When someone approached him, he said, ‘I’m just so grateful to know about this opportunity. I lost my job and i don’t know how I would have been able to feed them.’”
Huntley said it’s not only the unemployed who seek aid; the underemployed also require help. “Many are just making enough to pay bills. These are the working poor. You want to feed and provide for your kids, but you need to keep a roof over your head and pay bills at the same time.”
For many of us, a new year is a fresh start to introduce healthy habits into our daily routines. Whether it be a eating more fruits and vegetables, exercising more or limiting screen time, we all start the new year with a sense of promise and motivation. We reached out to local leading experts in different health fields for their advice on making 2018 a happy, healthy year.
MD, Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist
Harbor Behavioral Health
7140 Port Sylvania Dr.
567-408-7242 | harbor.org
While people may have heard of Harbor Behavioral Health, they may not be aware of everything you offer the community. What are some of your services? Harbor physicians are specialized to deal with many multiple disorders which are as simple as adjustment to new situations or anxiety related to stressful situations or complex long term issues like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, major depression , bipolar and schizophrenia. Talk to someone at Harbor so they can guide you in the right direction. Sometimes the need is only short term, but if not addressed appropriately, it can lead to long term chronic problems which become hard to address. Make an effort to make that first call to find out what Harbor physicians have to offer.
If families made one change regarding their mental and physical health in the new year, what would you suggest they do? My one piece of advice is to eat healthy and exercise to your potential. Eating healthy does not mean starving, but making healthy choices, using appropriate portions, and of course, avoiding high caloric drink. Make water your best friend.
Exercising means not necessarily doing extraneous exercise but exercising as much as your potential. YouTube and the internet are full of free exercise videos- so make that step in your life and start using those. Or even just start counting your steps. Buy yourself (or ask Santa to give you) a Fit Bit… and start counting! You will want at least 10,000 steps every day.
What tips do you have for a happy, healthy 2018? Eat healthy and exercise, be kind and considerate of others’ needs, stay away from drugs and other bad habits, and stay happy! Be thankful for what you have rather than focusing on what you don’t have. Keep smiling – smiles are priceless and worth a million.
Alexis Road Family Dental
4640 W. Alexis Rd. #200
419-471-1208
alexisroadfamilydental.com
What advice do you have for families regarding their dental health in 2018? As families look ahead to 2018, it is important to come in regularly for cleanings and exams. Oral health affects the whole body. If there is inflammation or periodontal gum disease present, people are at an increased risk of developing diabetes and heart disease. You may already know this, but what people may not realize is that recent research has shown a link between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease, even certain cancers as well! This makes it all the more important to stay on top of your oral health by regular professional cleanings and at home care of brushing twice a day with an electric toothbrush, and flossing.
What sets Alexis Road Family Dental apart from other
dentists in the area? At Alexis Road Family Dental, we go above and beyond to ensure our dental family is taken care of. We treat everyone with respect and have many modalities to make your visit to your dental home as comfortable as it can be. I personally follow up with patients anytime I treat them.
3036 W. Sylvania Ave.
419-474-0733 | drknierim.com
If parents/families made one change and/or new habit regarding dental hygiene in the new year, what would you suggest they do? FLOSS! Flossing is the one New Year’s resolution we would love for all families to make! This is the area most parents tell me they struggle with making it a part of their routine. Many young children don’t have the hand skills to effectively floss yet and require adult assistance.
Are there any myths about children and their oral health you’d like to clear up? I think many people believe that the major culprits that cause cavities are sugary things like candy. Many of the convenient snack foods we give our kids are to blame too.
Most crackers are high in carbohydrates and stick around on your teeth for a long time after you have eaten them – so that means our goldfish crackers, animal crackers and pretzels may be causing cavities too!
What advice do you have for a happy, healthy 2018? Most foods that are healthy for your body like fruits, vegetables, cheese, nuts, etc. are good choices for healthy teeth too. Start your 2018 off with making good food choices and you will benefit in more ways than good dental check ups. Don’t be too hard on yourself when you choose a treat, even the dentist likes chocolate! Just make sure you brush and floss after!
HLS Orthodontics
6407 Monroe St., Sylvania
419-882-1017
perfectbraces.com
As families look ahead to 2018, what advice do you have for them about their dental health? Start early! The American Association of Orthodontist recommends that all children should have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. An experienced orthodontist can clearly see by age 7 whether developmental issues can turn into problems. Early detection of common orthodontic problems such as crowding, premature loss of baby teeth, crossbites or many other unfavorable developmental issues can lead to the implementation of the most appropriate treatment that can result in a shorter course of therapy. You can see an orthodontist without a dentist referral.
Any myths regarding braces/ orthodontics you’d like to clear up?
Myth: Anyone who provides braces or clear aligners is an
orthodontists.
Myth: Orthodontic treatment takes years.
Myth: Orthodontic treatment is just for kids.
Getting braces can be a big step.
What advice do you have for children/teens and their families? Orthodontic treatment creates a better bite, making teeth fit better and decreases the risk of future and potentially costly dental problems. Braces may cause some discomfort during the first few days of treatment and after some subsequent adjustments. To minimize this problem, eat soft foods for the first few days and, if needed, use a saltwater rinse.
Toledo Clinic ENT Sinus Center
5800 Park Center Ct.
419-724-8368
toledorhinoplasty.com
As families look ahead to 2018, what advice do you have for them about their physical health? Eat healthy, drink water and sleep well.
For some families, this could be the year to find a new doctor. As they look around for one, why should they choose The Toledo Clinic? What sets you apart from other providers in the area? The The Toledo Clinic is the only physician-owned multi-specialty group in Toledo. For patients this means excellent quality medical care at a reduced cost without bloated hospital fees which provides superior value.
If families started one new healthy habit this year, what would you suggest they do and/or incorporate into their routines?
Stop drinking pop and start drinking water!
Associate in Women’s Health
5300 Harroun Rd. #201, Sylvania
419-843-4836
associnwomenshealth.com
As women look ahead to 2018, what advice do you have for them about their overall health? As women look ahead to 2018, what advice do you have for them about their overall health? Many women put their own health last, behind the health of their families – don’t! You need to take care of yourself as well as others. Problems left unattended can many times become worse and take longer to fix.
What sets Associate in Women’s Health apart from others? We are a single, independent provider, with 30 years of experience. For every visit, you will see Dr. Jackson.If you are an OB patient, Dr. Jackson will do your delivery (unless he is out of town, and then a covering physician will do the delivery). We are also independent, so that we can take Promedica and Mercy insurances. Dr. Jackson also performs VBAC (based on his medical judgement). And we are one of only 2 providers in Northwest Ohio with a Mona Lisa Touch laser.
Any myths about women’s health you’d like to clear up?
Myth: You have to have a family history of breast cancer in order to worry about breast cancer. There are plenty of people who are the first in their family to have breast cancer. My wife was one.
Myth: All cycles are 28 days. Not true! Many women have a perfectly normal cycle on a different schedule.
Myth: Once a C section, always a C-section. Some women
CAN have a vaginal birth after C section (VBAC). It’s not for everyone, but it is available.
Pediatric Ophthalmology Consultants
2927 N. McCord Rd.
419-517-5500 | pocllc.com
As families look ahead to 2018, what advice do you have for them about eyes? It is important for kids to have a comprehensive eye exam on an annual basis. (Vision screenings at school or by the primary care physician are not eye exams). Also, passing a vision screening does mean the vision is perfect or the eyes are healthy. Many vision problems and eye diseases have a better outcome if detected and treated early.
How often and at what age should children get their eyes checked? Good vision is an important part to a child’s overall development. The largest sensory input is vision. The vision system is not completely formed in young children; this develops from birth until about nine years of age. Clear input from both eyes is essential for the brain’s vision centers to grow properly. If a young child’s eyes cannot send clear images to the brain, vision may not develop properly nor correctable later in life. But if problems are detected early, they can be treated more effectively. Dilated exams should be every 12-24 months starting at age 3 until age 18. (© American Academy of Ophthalmology 2017)
If families made one change regarding their eyes in the new year, what would you suggest they do?
Schedule annual eye exam and pick date or time of year easy to remember, like birthday or before summer vacation.
Why should families choose POC?
The staff at Pediatric Ophthalmology Consultants aims to provide the very best in medical care for all of our patients, we provide a full- range of eye care services for patients of all ages.
Northwest Ohio is very lucky to have a wide selection of incredible schools with leaders who are dedicated and motivated to help all students succeed. We are excited to shine a spotlight on a select few of these amazing educators.
Head of School
Maumee Valley Country Day School
1715 South Reynolds Rd. | 419-381-1313
Mvcds.org
Why did you choose a career in education? I always thought that education was an admirable profession. My mother and both her sisters were teachers, and several of my cousins became educators. When one is young and idealistic, they think in terms of changing the world. What better way to change the world than through education?
What motivates you everyday? This sounds simple and obvious, I know, but at Maumee Valley we are motivated to do what is in the best interest of students. A consultant once told me that if you don’t keep this basic truth at the forefront of all your decisions, your school will become adult-centered over time because, while students pass through, the adults stay year after year. Ever since, “students first” has become our mantra.
Director of the Junior Academy Program
St. Ursula Academy
4025 Indian Rd. | 419-531-1693
toledosua.org
What is your main goal for St. Ursula Academy? To provide for each young woman a transformational Ursuline education focused on intellectual inquiry, personal growth, spiritual formation, and compassionate service. Our young women are empowered to continue learning, show kindness, and lead confidently.
What is something you hope to accomplish in 2018? To empower our young women to continually explore new ideas, take ownership of their learning, and truly value the impact they have on our community.
Why did you choose a career in education? My desire to help others was transformed into a vocation through experiences as a classroom teacher and administrator.
What motivates you every day? The relationships that I have with students, parents, faculty, and staff. My thirst for knowledge, along with my unending desire to creatively look for unique solutions, keeps me focused and passionate about education.
School Leader
HOPE Learning Academy of Toledo
4234 Monroe St. | 419-297-6313
hopelearningacademy.org
What is the main goal for your school?
Providing an excellent and accommodating education for children with special needs. We strive to cultivate self-reliance, critical thinking, and problem solving skills while infusing social skills, sensory, and art enrichment into our curriculum. Hope Learning Academy would like to continue to stay true to our mission and philosophy and grow our program to support the social, emotional, and academic needs of our students.
What motivates you everyday? My motivation comes from the amazing community that makes up HOPE Learning Academy. I am inspired daily by the dedication and commitment to our students I see from the group of individuals I get the pleasure to work with. Their energy and willingness to do whatever it takes for our students is what makes HOPE great.
Head of School
West Side Montessori
7115 W. Bancroft St.
419-866-1931
montessoritoledo.org
What sets West Side Montessori apart from other schools in the community? We are the only accredited Montessori school in the Toledo area serving children from toddlers through middle school. The specialized curriculum and teaching methodology emphasize experiential learning within a dynamic, family-oriented community. West Side graduates are independent, self-directed, confident leaders who are passionate about learning and excel in high school and beyond.
Why did you choose a career in education? I did not choose a career in education. It chose me. As a new parent nearly 50 years ago I searched for a way to stimulate the development of my bright, curious baby. Luckily, I stumbled on an article about Montessori education and was able to observe a Montessori class in action. I was astonished at what I saw and my path quickly became clear.
Superintendent
Ottawa Hills School District
3600 Indian Rd., Ottawa Hills
419-536-6371
ohschools.k12.oh.us
What sets Ottawa Hills Schools apart from other schools in the community? We call it “large school offerings in a small school setting.” Ottawa Hills students can take advantage of a variety of course offerings along with several co-curricular and extracurricular activities. These opportunities range from 17 Advanced Placement courses at our high school to 18 varsity sports to an incredible array of clubs and organizations. Our Arts programming is second to none, including opportunities for students K through 12 in instrumental and vocal music, theatre arts, and dance. Because of our small size, students have the chance to actively pursue their interests both inside and outside the classroom.
What is something you hope to accomplish in 2018?
The Ottawa Hills Local School District takes great pride in the quality of education provided to its students. Our standing as the number one school system in the state is the result of the collaborative efforts of our stakeholders. In 2018, we will continue working together to focus on the five goals of our strategic plan—Academics, Engagement, Innovation, Partnerships, and Support.
Superintendent
Toledo Public Schools
419-671-0001 | tps.org
Why did you become an educator? I’ve always been driven to helping others. To me, education is a powerful way to reach as many people and to make a true impact on their future.
What is your district’s biggest accomplishment in 2017? Toledo Public Schools continued to expand our career technology offerings for students, along with providing more advanced pathways that will lead students to a successful start in college. We also announced the new Aerospace & Natural Science Academy of Toledo— this new school will provide high school students who have an interest in a career in aviation or urban agriculture a unique learning environment. As we look toward 2018, we plan to continue enhancing our community partnerships and to share the ‘good news’ that happens each and every day across the district with our supporters.
Pre-K teacher & Administrator
Story Orchard Learning Academy
2041 W Airport Hwy., Swanton
419-826-9039 |See “Story Orchard Learning
Academy” on Facebook
What sets Story Orchard Learning Academy apart from other schools in the community? Not only do we provide quality care and education to all the infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school aged children enrolled in our program, we individualize each experience based on the family’s needs an individual child’s developmental level and interests.
Why did you choose a career in education? Teaching has always come naturally to me. I showed patience with little ones at an early age while my mom cared for children in our home, and she has always said I was a natural teacher. In high school, I had other chances to try teaching when I was asked to be a tutor and a mentor. After trying different routes to help a student understand a concept, finally hx-earing the words “I get it now!” is the best feeling. My mission has always been to help learners find confidence and pride in their accomplishments.
Vice President of Advancement
Cardinal Stritch Catholic High
School & Academy
3225 Pickle Rd., Oregon
419-693-0465 | cardinalstritch.org
What sets Cardinal Stritch H.S. apart from other schools in the community? We are the only Pre-K to 12 Catholic School in NW Ohio. This provides a tremendous amount of stability for both students and families. Putting students on a single, coordinated path for success is a real asset to our community. Due to the size of our school, we focus on individualized attention and it is impossible for students to slip through the cracks. Within days of joining the Cardinal Family, students will know classmates and teachers across various grades, and vice versa. We are laser focused on our goal— forming disciples of Jesus Christ. Along the way, we are confident our students will go to college, get a job and have a family, so we work to prepare them for those too, but the primary focus really is tied to our Catholic faith. Whether students are Catholic or not, it makes for an incredibly supportive, loving and nurturing community. We call ourselves the Cardinal Family, and it is 100% true.
What is your main goal for your school? In the simplest terms, my goal is to raise as much money as possible to support the mission of Cardinal Stritch Catholic High School & Academy. More strategically, my goal is to foster a culture of philanthropy that enables us to continuously meet our community’s growing needs.
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