Toledo Parent December 2014

Diverse Family Traditions Local families ring in the season

our 23rd year connecting with families

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Holiday Tradition with a Little TeamworkShimmer the Elf helps pull off Christmas

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FREEDECEMBER 2014FREEDECEMBER 2014FREEDECEMBER 2014

HolidayGift Guide

Stumped? We have ideas!

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Holiday Hullabaloo

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The most wonderful time of the year and the best

places to spend it!

2 • December 2014 • www.toledoparent.com

BracesbyDrBunkers.com

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Email [email protected]

3www.toledoparent.com • December 2014 •


Kids say and do the darnd-est things. See what had us laughing this month! If you make it on this page, you can win giveaways from Toledo Area Parent!

My three year old, who will not give up her pacifier, said today after I tried making a deal with her, “I don’t like your deals mama about getting off my paci, it would be a very bad experience for me!” Nicole Stover, Toledo

baby bloopers

DECEMBER givEaway: The Knock Nanny is a simple to install doorbell cover that reminds visitors that there are sleep-ing children in the house, a genius way to prevent nap time from being disturbed by a ringing doorbell or loud knock. It comes with an assortment of fun decals... the perfect gift for new parents or parents to be!

community snapshots 6

what’s briefly happening 7

new kids on the block 9

calendar 26 compiled by Marisa Rubin & Chloe Rothschild

marketplace 27

[departments]

Toledo’s Award-Winning Parent Newspaper

[commentary]

the upside down mom A Holiday Tradition

with a Little TeamworkShimmer pays a visit to the

Rochelle family by Kerri Rochelle

food fight Perfect Recipe

For Success Bleu Smoke Bar and Grill

makes its way to Holland by Karen L. Zickes

Cassidy Thompson, 5 Toledo

Five Tips for a Peaceful Stepfamily Holiday Gayla Grace helps you save some hair-pulling moments this Christmas.

CREATE a Winter CraftMake beautiful snowflake creations with kids this winter with the help of CREATE Perrysburg owner, Kerry Wellstein.

Soul Support: Four Ways to Bolster Your SpiritRestore your spirit and find the energy tokeep your New Year’s resolutions going!

See our 2014 Education Guide online to find great schools for your family and see what local students think would make a perfect place to learn and grow!

The most wonderful time of the year and the best places to spend it

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25

DECEMBER

[special features]

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Online

Volume 23 • Issue 12 December 2014

toledoparent.com

On the cover

FINDLIKE ANDFOLLOWUS

Make the most of the holiday season with these helpful hints online!

[Always online]

Diverse FamiltyTraditionsHow local families are ringing in the holidays

Our sincere apologies for incorrectly listing the Ballet Theatre of Toledo as Toledo Ballet with the latter’s contact information, and not including the Toledo Ballet’s listing, in the November Special Needs Directory.

CORRECTION

HolidayGift Guide

We have ideas when you don’t!

guide

Holiday Hullabaloo

Join us and our 3,100+ followers for laughs, updates & parenting discussions.

“Like” us on facebook.com/toledoareaparent


recycle this paperfor our children's future ...

Publisher/Editor in ChiefCollette Jacobs ([email protected]) A sunny vAcAtion with my husbAnd

Co-publisher/Chief Financial OfficerMark I. Jacobs ([email protected]) A sunny vAcAtion with my wife

EditorialAssignment Editor:Nadine Hariri ([email protected])A heAlthy bAby in februAry!

Calendar:Marisa Rubin ([email protected])seven more dAys so i get As mAny presents As hAnukkAh

Social Media Specialist:Saul Jacobs ([email protected])A 1976 cAdillAc el dorAdo convertible

Contributing Writers:Christine Holliday, Erin Marsh, Laura Blair, Rhonda Wilson, Kerri Rochelle, Karen L. Zickes

Art/ProductionArt Director:Margaret Kelly ([email protected]) A new puppy

Production Manager:Brittney Koehl ([email protected])A new phoneSenior Designer:Leah Foley ([email protected])A cAr

Graphic Design:Chelsie Parton ([email protected])An ellipticAl or treAdmill

AdvertisingSales Manager:Aubrey Hornsby ([email protected])two trips to cAncun

Sales Coordinator:Molly Davis ([email protected])A wArm And sAfe holidAy for everyone!

Customer Service Representative:Rachellyn Marsh ([email protected])A cAnon powershot sx510 hs

Sales:Sharon Kornowa ([email protected]) A wArm fuzzy holidAy without stressSam Rotroff ([email protected])for All my friends And fAmily to be hAppy And sAfeLydia Schaefer ([email protected])A heAlthy bAbyJoseph South ([email protected])50 gAllon oAk wine bArrels

AdministrationAccounting: Robin Armstrong ([email protected])cAr seAt heAter pleAse

Adams Street Publishing Co.

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

Toledo Area Parent subscriptions are available by mail for $30 per year at Adams Street Publishing, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, Ohio 43604. One copy free per person per week; extra copies $1 each. Persons tak-ing copies for any reason other than personal use are subject to prosecution.

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

Entire contents © 2014 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without written permission of the publisher.

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What’s on the top of your list for Santa this year?

Mature

Sagittarian kids are always happy if they are given “space” to do their own thing. They are very curious and the most creative sign of the zodiac. They have super imagi-nations and are content to build, cut, paste and make some of their own cards and paper necklaces. They are fascinated to hear about foreign countries and may try to dig a hole to China in the back yard. They love animals, especially horses. They seem to take on every challenge which can be difficult for parents to understand.

Parents should remember that they resent strict time limits. Try to give them a 15 minute warning when meals will be served, when it is time to go to bed or to clean up their area. Often the Sagittarian child will spin a globe to find places around the world. Learning a second language (even sign language) is fun as long as they do not have to sit still for any length of time. They are extremely bright eyed, friendly and creative. Encourage them to make their own Christmas cards and gifts.

November 22-December 20

By Sue Lovett

baby bloopers

Toledo’s Award-Winning Parent Newspaper

419.726.5100 1.800.246.1731The Wendy’s names,

design and logo are registered trademarksof Oldmark, LLC and licensed to Wendy’s International, Inc.

Take a look at the available children on our Web site.www.adoptamericanetwork.org

(6 Years Old)

(5 Years Old)

Beth is funny and has a great sense of humor, most of the time. She is a very bright little girl who loves to play with her doll. Beth is working on things in school such as writing and counting. Her favorite thing is to give great big hugs and she loves to hug her brother Norman. Norman is a morning person that loves strawberry cake. He is usually very pleasant and a joy to be around. He is a smart little boy that has lots of potential. Norman is mostly non-verbal but he is learning American Sign Language as a way to better communicate. Both of them have the inner strength and ability to overcome huge obstacles and deserve parents who will encourage them and love them while they grow.

15 Years Old

Kanisa reports, “I like to watch television, especially cartoons.” She is a funny, friendly girl with a great personality. Kanisa likes to participate in the choir through the church she currently attends. She likes to talk and can be affectionate with others. Kanisa also likes to dance and entertain others. When Kanisa grows up she would like to become a doctor at a hospital – but she would prefer to be a ”Princess Doctor.” It will be important for the adoptive family to be strong advocates for Kanisa in the community and in the school environment. Kanisa has a relationship with her other siblings that should be maintained after she is adoptedLike Us on

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Christina, 4, Liese, 2, Toledo

Ashley and Corey, Ellie, 2,

Chase, 16 months, Sylvania

Lily, 3, and Peyton, 1, Toledo

Violet Mae, 6 months, Toledo

Ethan, 5, Toledo

Photo by Finn Photography

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Sophia, 8, Sylvania

Kel

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Lucas County Head Start at WSOS Community Action Commission, Inc. is now accepting applications for children ages 3 and 4 in Lucas County outside of the Toledo Public School system. Children with special needs are also accepted with full and half-day classes available. The Lucas County Head Start at WSOS Community Action Commission, Inc. program includes early childhood education as well as nutrition and health services for the child, and social services for the family. Students attend school at Holland Free Methodist Church, Alternative Learning Center, Toledo Lighthouse Church, Educare Academy, Light-house Christian Learning Center or Noah’s Ark Child Develop-ment. The program meets all of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services’ guidelines, and a waiting list is maintained should all 175 spots be filled.

Families interested in applying can call WSOS at 419-729-8035. www.wsos.org.

what’s briefly By Christine Holliday

Warm Man WinterNot everyone is fortunate enough to feel the warmth of clothing during a frigid winter season. With the expectation of yet another brutal winter, Toledo Loves Gloves recognizes that keeping warm is just as essential as food and shelter. Located at the corner of Adams and 13th Streets, a donation box, decorated by Matt Taylor, waits to be filled with dona-tions of new or lightly used gloves. The collected gloves will be distributed to the less fortunate to warm up their winter blues. The Toledo Loves Gloves donation box will be up and accepting donations of gloves, hats and scarves for men, women and children until January 5.

happening...

New Head Start Opportunities

1601 W. Sylvania (Located off Sylvania between Jackman & Lewis)419-470-0700 + Fax 419-470-0702

Hours: M-F 9:30-7:00, Sat. 10:00-3:00, Closed Sunday

FREE MEDICATIONS REVIEW!This helpful FREE review will:✚ Explain why these medications have been prescribed✚ Possible side effects and interactions✚ Ensures correct dosages and timing✚ And receive a FREE bottle of asprin!CALL US TO TRANSFER YOURPRESCRIPTIONS TODAY!

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:✚ FREE specialized blister packaging for your prescriptions.✚ FREE local prescription delivery!✚ Guaranteed lowest cash prices including $4 & $10 Generic prescriptions!✚ Medical supplies and home medical equipment✚ We accept all insurance plans!

Your medications come organized by date and time, securely sealed in individual easy-open packages. So when it’s time to take your next dose you just tear the package off the pack and your pills are there. That’s all there is to it: no boxes, no bottles, no bother.

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Call today to make an appointment for a private tour of SCC

23 Years of Excellence in Early Childhood Education and Care

3421 Talmadge Rd. • Toledo, Ohio • (419)537-1122 sylvaniachildren.com

419.385.03561555 S. BYRNE RD. TOLEDO, OH 43614HOURS: M-F 6am - 6pm

Transportation - Beverly - Byrnedale - Glendale-Feilbach - Toledo Christian - St. Patrick’s of Heatherdowns - Fairfield - Fort Miami - Wayne TrailRemote VideoObservation Programmingfor Children - 6 Weeks to 12 YearsLead Teachers - Have a Bachelors DegreeLicensed - By the Ohio Department of Job and Family Service (ODJFS)

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM OUR LITTLE EXPLORERS FAMILY TO YOURS


Anything and Everything ChocolateSchakolad Chocolate Factory, which opened a second location in Sylvania, sells not only chocolate, but the chocolate-making experience. As in the Levis Commons location, Schakolad’s chocolatiers create and decorate all items in store with cases full of truffles, chocolate-dipped pretzels and fruits, nut clusters and more. “There isn’t an event that we can’t make a chocolate for,” said owner Gordon Ebright. -LB

7632 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania. 419-841-0600. Levis Commons location, 3105 Chappel Dr. Toledo Suburb,

Perrysburg. www.schakolad.com

n Opened just in time for the holiday season, Home Goods and Marshalls have made their way to 5235 Monroe St. in Toledo. www.homegoods.com, www.marshallsonline.com n Now open! The new Toledo location of At Home serves decorating needs and much more, located at 2244 N. Reynolds Rd., near Heather-downs Blvd. www.athome.com/home/furniture

It’s Yoga For Parents and KidsRelaxed and patient parents raise relaxed and patient kids. For those of us who are neither, It’s Yoga Toledo offers family classes at their new Ottawa Hills location. The weekly class is for parents and children, toddler age and older, so they are able to follow along. During class, families move through poses, but it’s not about achieving perfection; it’s about having meaningful parent/child interaction in a playful atmosphere. “Relaxed, calmer, centered, happier people make relaxed, calmer, centered, happier families,” said Marie Russel, chair of It’s Yoga International. “It’s about moving away from stress and fear and toward something that works.” -LB

4324 Central Ave., Toledo. 419-531-0006. Downtown location, 135 N. Michigan St., Toledo. www.itsyogatoledo.com.

www.playsylvania.com

Indoor SoccerWinter

Program InformationTeams are organized based on child’s current grade and registration numbers. Some leagues may be co-ed if necessary. Recreational teams could potentially play games against travel teams based on enrollment or ability to form separate competitive divisions.

There are NO practices for this program. Teams that use the “Team Registration” option must provide their own jerseys. Children in Pre-K through 8th grade who register as individuals will be required to use the blue/gray reversible Sylvania Soccer Academy uniforms (available at Tam-O-Shanter). All players must wear shin guards, tennis shoes or soccer cleats.

Indoor Soccer Registration Deadline Cost Program Begins Day of Week

PreK - 2nd Grade Boys & Girls Friday, December 19 $50 ind. / Team $475 Jan. 10 Saturdays

3rd/4th Grade Boys Friday, December 19 $75 ind. / $835 Team Jan. 7 Wednesdays

3rd/4th Grade Girls Friday, December 19 $75 ind. / $835 Team Jan. 7 Wednesdays

5th/6th Grade Co-Ed Friday, December 19 $75 ind. / $835 Team Jan. 7 Wednesdays/Thursdays

7th/8th Grade Co-Ed Friday, December 19 $75 ind. / $835 Team Jan. 8 Thursdays

High School Co-Ed Friday, December 19 $75 ind. / $835 Team Jan. 8 Thursdays

League Fees / Dates

Game Jerseys, available for purchase @ Tam-O-Shanter Pro Shop.$10 additional fee for late registrations.

Volunteer Coaches needed!

** Program Days subject to change.**

REGISTER BYDECEMBER 19, 2014

TO INSURE YOUR PLACEMENT

For more info visit www.playsylvania.comOr Call 419.882.1500

7060 Sylvania Ave. Sylvania, OH 43560

WINTER INDOORSoccer & Lacrosse

(Pre-K – HS) (3rd – HS)

More...

Know of a new business opening? Let us know - we love to share with the community, [email protected]

(normally $36.97 when individually purchased)

148 E. South Boundary St

www.plontzies.com

Holiday Offerings

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Ashraf Photography

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First ChristmasThe Houghtalings spend their first

Christmas as a family of four

The Houghtalings look forward to the holidays each year, but this Christmas will be a special

celebration. It is the first Christmas they will be a family of four. Sara and John Houghtaling have two daughters, Ava, 6, and Adalyn (Addy), 3, and both girls were adopted from China. While Ava has been with her parents for 4 years, this will be Addy’s first Christmas in America as a Houghtaling.

In the Houghtaling household, Christmas decora-tions are plentiful, focusing on a “huge tree decorat-ed in almost strictly Chinese ornaments from all of our travels to China.” Sara says, “I’m really excited for Addy to see the Christmas tree because I don’t think she’s ever seen something like that.” She then jok-ingly adds, “I will just need to keep her little fingers away from it!” Christmas Eve is just as big as Christ-mas for the Houghtalings, and after a family lunch with Sara’s father’s family, they all head to Christ-mas Eve service at United Church of Christ “decked out in Christmas attire.” When the girls arrive home, Christmas Eve gifts await them: Christmas pajamas, a Christmas movie, and a holiday treat. They snuggle up to watch their Christmas flick before finally calling it a night.

Christmas morning is a flurry of excitement as the presents are opened. The Houghtalings meet Sara’s father’s family for a gift exchange and breakfast, and later in the afternoon, they join up with Sara’s moth-er’s family for yet another gift exchange for the kids. The extended family plays card and board games before everyone “passes out.” Sara only hopes this Christmas will be less exciting than last year; Ava broke out in hives due to an allergic reaction to her Christmas present, a guinea pig.

While the Ali family doesn’t celebrate Christmas, they do enjoy the festivities

surrounding it. Sana Ali reminisces, “When we were kids, we used to put up holiday lights because it was fun. On Christmas Day, we wouldn’t have presents or anything, but if we saw Santa Claus, we were excited.” She adds, laughing, “I never thought Santa was real though because no one ever brought me presents!”

Sana says that her two children, Sulaiman, 4, and Sarah, 3, participate in any holiday activities that are presented by the school. Sana reflects, “For us, Christianity and Judaism are considered part of the Book. If you don’t respect the Bible, Torah, or Koran, it’s considered wrong.”

The Ali’s two major annual celebrations are Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha. Eid Al-Fitr varies each year because Islam follows the lunar calendar, but it is the Muslim holiday most similar to Christ-mas. The Muslim community gathers together, cel-ebrating with food, and the children receive gifts and money throughout the day. Eid Al-Fitr honors the end of Ramadan and its 30-day fast. Sana says traditionally they dress in their best clothes, which in Pakistani culture means shalwar-kameez (“really long, colorful shirts and pants made out of silk”), and attend the mosque for prayers and a sermon. Eid Al-Adha, on the other hand, cel-ebrates the end of Hajj, the Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca.

Shawn and Mindy Kairis have seamlessly merged their two religious celebrations,

Christmas and Hanukkah, into two large gather-ings that unite both sides of their extended fami-lies. Shawn’s Catholic family travels to Mindy’s

family for Hanukkah, and Mindy’s Jewish side attends their Christmas celebrations. Mindy jokes that one of the perks of marrying a Catho-lic boy is finally having a Christmas tree. “All Jews want a tree; I don’t care what they say!”

Shawn and Mindy and their two children, Estella, 3, and Max, 3 months, attend a “Hanuk-kah extravaganza,” complete with Mindy’s mom dancing to “super, super loud Hanukkah music. She has her Star of David on and she’s decked out, head to toe, in blue and white Hanukkah garb.” After everyone eats an array of food, including potato latkes, applesauce, and “any-thing fried,” they light the menorah, play dreidel, and present gifts to the grandkids.

For their Christmas festivities, the Kairis fam-ily heads to Shawn’s family for Christmas Eve. Sometimes they attend midnight mass, which Es-tella calls “the place where you get candy,” and they typically exchange a few gifts that night. On Christmas Day, Mindy’s family joins them, and after exchanging more gifts, both extended families dine together. Mindy laughs, “Last year we went out for Chinese on Christmas Day like a good Jewish/Catholic family.” As part of fam-ily tradition, Shawn’s family places oranges in the Christmas stockings, which dates back to his grandparents and the Depression era, as “a reminder that we may prosper now, but not al-ways.”

Heather Meyer Photography

A “CaJew” Christmas/Hanukkah

The Kairis family melds Catholic and Jewish traditions

CelebratingCommunity

The Ali family honors family and friends during the holidays

Family Traditions Filled with Love Local Toledo families ring in the New Year by Erin Marsh


74th

Toledo Ballet 2014 Presents

For Tickets 419-381-8851 or ToledoBallet.org

Stranahan �eaterSaturday, December 13~ 2pm & 7pmSunday, December 14~ 2pmAccompanied by the Toledo SymphonyTickets $24 to $54

For tickets 419-381-8851 or ToledoBallet.org

Toledo Ballet 2014 Presents~

Marie Bollinger Vogt, Founder & Artistic Director EmeritaLisa Mayer, Artistic Director

74th

Stranahan �eaterSaturday, December 13~ 2pm & 7pmSunday, December 14~ 2pmAccompanied by the Toledo SymphonyTickets: $24 to $54

Toledo’s Original

The True Meaning of Christmas

The Novotny family hopes to teach their daughters the joy of giving

Jessica and Dan Novotny have two daughters, Annabelle, 2, and Penelope, 7 months, and Jessica says that she hopes her

daughters learn that Christmas “isn’t just about presents.” To help their eldest daughter realize the “true meaning of Christmas,” they bought Annabelle her first nativity set. She loves hearing the story of “baby Jesus,” and she can already identify the “wisemen” in her Christmas books. Jessica also plans on starting a Christmas jar full of ideas on how to give to others. Annabelle will choose a slip of paper every other day, and on that piece of paper will be selfless suggestions, such as “Make cookies for grandma” or “Donate to the Salvation Army.” Jessica reflects, “She’s so spoiled--she gets so many presents--and I’m really looking forward to her giving to others.”

With “so many families to please on both sides,” Christmas for the Novotny family can be a bit chaotic, but Jessica Novotny says she loves everything about Christmas: “the lights, the music, the decora-tions...and, of course, the presents.” Christmas Eve is spent with Jes-sica’s father’s family, and then Christmas morning Jessica and Dan spend the morning alone with their girls. Christmas Day is spent with Jessica’s mom. In the midst of all of that, Dan’s family comes to visit from out of town. Jessica says it’s “tough to organize everything with all of the different families, but it’s great they come to us. They realize how difficult it is to travel with two little ones.”

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www.compelledchurch.tv

Toledo Campus1007 S McCord Rd. Holland, OH 43528

Sundays 11AM419.205.9090

Christmas Eve Service3:30PM

Bedford Campus8970 Jackman Rd.Temperance, MI 48182Saturdays 6PM, Sundays 9AM & 11AM734.850.0051Christmas Eve Gatherings 3:30PM & 5PM

Join Us.We are an energetic and thriving church

meeting in two locationsOur Mission is to Love God, Love People, and Serve the World.

Advertise with us. Get results. 419.244.9859

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December 5, 6, 12 and 13Holiday Lantern Tour4–8:30pmSauder Village22611 St. Rte 2, Archbold1-800-590-9755, www.saudervillage.org Historic Sauder Village gives guests a turn of the century tour by lantern light as a costumed guide takes small groups on a pilgrimage to the early 1900’s. Guests will experience the holiday cus-toms of that time, join in a hymn in the church and receive a small gift respec-tive to the early century theme. Prereg-istration and prepayment is required. Nonmembers: $12/adult, $7/children 3-16. Members: $10/adult, $6/children 3-16. Saturday, December 6Festivities in the Farmhouse10amWildwood Preserve5100 W. Central Ave., Toledo419-407-9700www.metroparkstoledo.com The farmhouse at the East entrance of the Wildwood Preserve hosts a warm but wintry fellowship for the merry community. Holiday activities featured include many unique crafts for kids. Volunteers from Read for Literacy will be reading holiday stories to the kids and Santa may even make an entrance! Apple cider and snacks provided. Free

Saturday, December 6International Tea & Gingerbread Party11:30am-1pm & 1:30pm-3:30pmHilton Garden Inn at Levis Commons3201 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg419-878-8548www.isohimpact.org/tea Watch your children’s faces light up as they decorate a gingerbread house that’s theirs to take home! You’re invited to ISOH/Impact’s annual International Tea Party at the Hilton Garden Inn. Enjoy delicious food, desserts, savory soup and steaming cups of fragrant teas. Tea & Gingerbread House Pack-age- $45/each (includes one adult tea, one child’s tea and one gingerbread house), $25/individual adult, $25/individual child.

continued on p. 14


Parades, carolers, tree lightings, artisan markets, visits with Santa, and other happenings capture the spirit of the holiday season. This list will carry your

sleigh to some fun and family-friendly activities.

December 1-January 4Lights Before ChristmasSunday–Thursday 3-8pm, Friday and Saturday 3-9pmToledo Zoo2 Hippo Way, Toledo419-385-4040, www.toledozoo.org Come enjoy the frolicking light show and promenading carolers, meet Santa until he leaves for the North Pole on December 24, and rejoice in the glow of the Big Tree. Cooler climate animals will also be out on display for little elves to enjoy! $11/ages 12-59, $8/seniors 60+ and children 2-11, Free/kids under 2.

Tuesday, December 2Community Holiday Celebrations6:30-8pmPoint Place Branch of the Toledo Public Library2727 117th St., Toledo419-259-5390, www.toledolibrary.orgEnjoy local musical talent, refreshments and merriment at this fun and free fam-ily event! Bring your holiday cheer and mingle and jingle with your family and community! Free December 2–January 4FrostologyImagination StationTuesday–Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday Noon-5pm1 Discovery Way, Toledo419-244-2674www.imaginationstationtoledo.org Come and take part in the slippery science of snow, as Santa’s little elves create works and crafts from paper holiday-themed activities. The chilly theme will continue through the month of December during regular business hours. Regular admission rates apply.

Thursday, December 4Cookies and Cocoa with Claus6-8pmImagination Station1 Discovery Way, Toledo419-244-2674www.imaginationstationtoledo.org Imagination Station members are invited to a pajama dance party with Santa! The jolly night will fuse holiday cookies and cocoa and frosty cool sci-ence. Reservations required, members only. December 5-December 7A Christmas CarolThe Valentine Theatre410 Adams St., Toledo419-242-3490www.valentinetheatre.comThis is a holiday favorite featuring a tale of redemption that embodies the true meaning of Christmas. Expect to see lavish costumes, spectacular sets and a musical score rich with carols of the era put on by the Toledo Repertoire Theatre. $27/adults, $22/seniors, $17/children 13 and under.

December 5-7Heralding the Holidays5-9pm. Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. 419-536-5566toledogarden.orgUnique holiday gifts are for sale in the conference center, Artists Village and Seasons Gift Shop. Everyone can visit with Santa Claus and on Friday night, enjoy a free horse-drawn wagon ride.

By Rhonda Wilson

Warm your hearts on cold days at these

festive December events

Through December 17Holiday Gift Drive Levis Commons3201 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg419-931-8888www.shopleviscommons.comGive the best gift ever by donating a new, unwrapped toy, gift card or other donation to the Lucas County Children Services Holiday Gift Drive!

Through December 24Photos with SantaThe Shops at Fallen Timbers3100 Main St., Suite 1599, Maumee419-878-6255www.theshopsatfallentimbers.comFlash your pearly whites next to Santa and capture the moment while you tell him what’s on your list!

Through December 24Letters to SantaLevis Commons3201 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg419-931-8888www.shopleviscommons.comIf you miss Santa while he’s visiting, drop off your wish list in the nearby mailbox and receive a response from Saint Nicholas! Favorites will be posted online every week.

Through December 24Visits with SantaDecember 1-14: Fridays 4-8pm, Saturdays Noon-8pm, Sundays 1-6pm; December 15-20: Daily Noon-8pm; December 21: 1-6pm; December 22: Noon-8pm; December 23: Noon-8pmLevis Commons3201 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg419-931-8888www.shopleviscommons.comBring your camera and snap photos while you visit with Santa in his festive house on the boulevard!

Through December 27Horse-drawn Carriage RidesLevis Commons3201 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg419-931-8888 www.shopleviscommons.comTake in the beautifully decorated bou-levard on a horse-drawn carriage ride. $5/person or $10/family.


continued on p. 14

NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 24

Ongoing events

continued from p. 12


December 6–December 14Holidays in the Manor House/Holiday Café and Craft Show10amWildwood Preserve5100 W. Central Ave., Toledo419-407-9700www.metroparkstoledo.com Stroll through the historic Manor House and let the beautiful holiday decorations whisk you away through history. After the tour, visit the craft show and café in Metroparks Hall. Warm up with coffee, hot chocolate, cookies and popcorn. Handmade gifts are for sale from local craftsmen. Free Saturday, December 6Jingle Bell Run 5K9amThe Shops at Fallen Timbers3100 Main St., Maumee419-878-6255, www.jinglebellrunmaumee.kintera.org Be a part of the largest holiday 5K race series aimed to fight arthritis! Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis is a fun and festive way to kick off your holidays by helping others and has been voted one of the Most Incredible Themed Races! Whether running or walking, all are encouraged to wear holiday themed attire – some even tie jingle bells to their shoelaces! $30/adults, $10/children.

Saturday, December 6Southview Band’s Santa Break and Holiday Extravaganza9am-2pmSouthview High School7225 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania419-824-8580www.southviewband.com Kids can color holiday crafts, have their faces painted and take pictures with Santa and his elves. The vendor fair on site will feature Pampered Chef, Usborne and Close to My Heart products. Breakfast and lunch will be available for purchase. Take part in the silent auction and get into the holiday spirit as the Southview Jazz Band performs holiday tunes throughout the day.

Sunday, December 7Toledo Symphony Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah2-4pmToledo Museum of Art Peristyle 2445 Monroe St., Toledo419-255-8000www.toledosymphony.comDon’t miss this family outing, as the Toledo Symphony, Toledo Choral Society and BGSU choruses present Handel’s iconic masterpiece Messiah. It’s the Messiah of the season! $35/adults, $17.50/students & children.

continued on p. 16


December 8, 16 and 17Let it Snow Magic Show with Andrew Martin Locke, Maumee and South Toledo Public Library Branches419-259-5200 www.toledolibrary.org It’s sure to be a spirited holiday show of wonders with everyone’s favorite magician, Andrew Martin. December 8, 7-8pm at the Maumee Auditorium, December 16, 6-7pm at the Locke Meet-ing Room and December 17, 4-5pm at the South Meeting Room. Free

Tuesday, December 920th Annual Walking in a Winter Wonderland6:30-8pmToledo Heights Branch of Toledo Public Library423 Shasta Dr., Toledo419-259-5220www.toledolibrary.org Start the evening off with a craft at the library and then walk to the Highland Park Shelter House for songs, cookies and hot chocolate. This event is cospon-sored by the Toledo Heights Friends of the Library and the City of Toledo. Free December 11-14 and December 18-21Winter Wonderland6-8pmSandusky County Fairgrounds901 Rawson Ave., Fremont419-332-5604www.sanduskycountyfair.com The Sandusky County Fairgrounds are magically turned into a winter wonder-land featuring crafts for kids, refresh-ments, visits with Santa, carriage rides, horse rides, craft shows, vendors, carol-ers and more. Cost is $1 or a donation of a nonperishable food item.

December 12, 13, 19, 20Carriage RidesThe Shops at Fallen Timbers3100 Main St., Suite 1599, Maumee419-878-6255www.theshopsatfallentimbers.comExperience holiday magic on a complimentary carriage ride through Fallen Timbers! December 12, 13, 19, 20Strolling Carolers The Shops at Fallen Timbers3100 Main St., Suite 1599, Maumee419-878-6255www.theshopsatfallentimbers.comListen to beautiful holiday tunes by “The Christmas Carol” performers as you walk around and shop.



Go online to

toledoparent.com for more events

December 12 –December 27Children’s Wonderland11am-8pmTam-O-Shanter7060 Sylvania Ave., Sylvania419-885-1167www.childrenswonderland.org Come enjoy the merriment at this festive wonderland specially designed for kids! Enjoy the toy store, bakery, train rides, kids interactive zone, pictures with Santa and more! $6/adults, $3/children and seniors, additional $5/Kid Zone and $9/Santa’s Workshop (December 13 and 20, 9:30 am). Saturday, December 13Holiday Crafternoon3-4pmSanger Branch of theToledo Public Library3030 W. Central Ave., Toledo419-259-5370, www.toledolibrary.orgCreate and take home a holiday orna-ment, festive card or anything else you can create during this hour-long crafting program. Bring your jolly family and have a great holiday-themed afternoon! Free Saturday, December 13Indoor Family Movie Night8-10pmDowntown PerrysburgCommodore School Building/Beck Auditorium

Louisiana Ave. at Indiana Ave., Perrysburg, 419-872-6246www.downtownperrysburg.org Warm up inside with a family friendly holiday movie! Enjoy festive pre-movie entertainment with free popcorn and refreshments. Free Saturday, December 13Santa Claus is Coming to the Library2-3pmHolland Branch of the Toledo Public Library1032 S. McCord Rd., Holland419-259-5240, www.toledolibrary.orgVisit the head elf, Santa! Join in the fun as Santa and the librarians share stories, treats and a craft. Registration is required. Free Saturday, December 13Wonderfully Different Christmas Traditions11amWildwood Preserve5100 W. Central Ave., Toledo419-407-9700www.metroparkstoledo.com Come in and keep warm out of the blustery weather! The original 1893 one-room schoolhouse is delightfully decorated for holiday visitors. During this open house, enjoy refreshments and learn about the jolly Christmas traditions

from all over the world. String some popcorn for the tree at Oak Grove School and make a Victorian ornament to hang on your own tree. Registration is required. Free

Sunday, December 14Hanukkah Palooza 20144-6pmCongregation Temple Shomer Emunim, 6453 Sylvania Ave. 419-724-0368jewishtoledo.orgCelebrate the Festival of Lights with a Hanukkah rock concert, a special themed dinner and holiday activities. $15/family before December 5, $20/family after December 5 and at door.

Saturday, December 13 & Sunday, December 14The NutcrackerSaturday 2&7pm, Sunday 2pmStranahan Theater4645 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo419-381-8851www.stranahantheater.org Take your family to see the longest running annual performance of The Nutcracker in the country. Toledo Bal-let’s Nutcracker is in its 74th annual production, and they push closer to perfection each year. Be part of this holiday extravaganza, accompanied by The Toledo Symphony Orchestra, and includes the hilarious celebrity, Mother Gingers. $24-$54.

Sunday, December 14Holiday Open House 1-4pmFort Meigs29100 W. River Rd., Perrysburg419-874-4121www.fortmeigs.org The Visitor Center of Fort Meigs hosts War of 1812 soldiers and civilians who will provide demonstrations and answer questions about the War of 1812 and camp life. Enjoy hands-on activities, holiday music and refreshments. Get some holiday shopping done in the museum store with historical and unique holiday gifts! $5/adults, $4/seniors, $3/students, free/5 + under.

Sunday, December 14Winter Festival of Crafts10am-4pmFranciscan Center at Lourdes University6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania419-841-1593, www.lourdes.edu/home/aboutlourdes/franciscancenter.aspxSee their beautiful setting for their last show of the year where you can pick up last minute holiday gifts and decorations that will make the holidays brighter! Crafts are made by local artists.

Monday, December 15Winter Celebrations5-7:30pmWashington Branch of the Toledo Public Library5560 Harvest Lane, Toledo419-259-5330 www.toledolibrary.org Celebrate the holidays family-style with cookie decorating, crafts, refreshments and fun. This family event is guaran-teed to bring excitement. All ages are welcome. Free Friday, December 26Sleigh Rides1-4pmRutherford B Hayes Presidential Center1 Spiegel Grove, Fremont419-332-2081, www.rbhayes.org Culminate your holiday season with a relaxing ride through wintry snow at the historic Rutherford B Hayes Presidential Center. $3/rider. December 27–January 4Toledo Walleye WinterfestFifth Third Field Huntington Center406 Washington St., Toledo419-725-9255, www.toledowalleye.com Downtown Toledo and Fifth Third Field transform into a winter wonderland for Toledo’s very first outdoor professional hockey game at the Mud Hens Ballpark. Promedica Toledo Hospital will also present family-friendly activities for fans of all ages. Game schedules are posted on the website.

Wednesday, December 31 Noon Year’s Eve11:15am-12:15pmPoint Place Branch of the Toledo Public Library2727 117th St., Toledo419-259-5390, www.toledolibrary.org Let little ones experience the joys of a New Year’s celebration without having to stay up late! Enjoy treats, refresh-ments and the traditional New Year’s countdown 12 hours early! Registration is required. Free Wednesday, December 31Noon Year’s EveNoonToledo Zoo2 Hippo Way, Toledo419-385-4040, www.toledozoo.org Raise a toast to the New Year and sing a round of Auld Lang Syne all at the stroke of noon! Perfect for the younger crowd eager to make it to midnight! Enjoy all the celebrations of the evening in the middle of the day! Normal admission rates for the zoo apply.


All Are Welcome!Join Us – Free

December 20th, 3pm - 7pmDecember 21st, 10am - 11am

11am Sanctuary Service

ONE NIGHT INBETHLEHEM

ENJOY THE SIGHTS, SOUNDS, AND AROMAS AS YOU STROLL THROUGH BETHLEHEM

• Live Nativity Scene • Musical Program

• Live Animals• Hands-On Activities

• Refreshments

2180 COLLINGWOOD BLVD. • TOLEDO, OH 43620 • 419.243.3275 • WWW.COLLINGWOODPC.NET

Holiday Gift Guide

Ever feel overwhelmed when it comes to getting the perfect gift? Toledo Area Parent is here to remove the stress of won-dering whether your little ones, parents or friends will love what they unwrap. Our Holiday Gift Guide provides ideas on how to bring smiles to everyone’s face this Christmas.

Don’t get stumped on what to get family

and friends this holiday season

The Gift of ScienceImagination Station1 Discovery Way, Toledo419-244-2674www.imaginationstationtoledo.org

Give the gift of science fun this holiday with a year-long membership to the Imagination Station. Membership offers unlimited access to the science center, reciprocal membership at over 300 science centers across the country, discounted prices for Dinosaurs Unearthed, free Simulator Theater rides, access to special members-only events and discounts for summer camps, the gift shop and the cafe.

continued on p. 18


Start the ultimate adventure at Build It! Your little learners will create masterpieces at Toledo’s lego des-tination filled with bricks, colorful walls and plenty of space for their imagination. Their Snow Globe and Ornament classes for the holidays will give the gift of creativity. Also, visitors will enjoy their recently-constructed slide that is waiting for kids to build legos on.

LittleLego

LoversBuild It!

5180 Chappel Dr., Perrysburg419-690-9311

www.builditperrysburg.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Outside of Arrowhead Park * 419.891.2181

www.SerenityHealthMaumee.com

Offer exp. 1/30/15

May not be combined with any other offerServices MAY be used on different days

1685 Lance Pointe Drive • Maumee, Near Arrowhead Park • 419.891.2181www.SerenityHealthMaumee.com

Health & Wellness Center“Maumee’s Premier Spa”

3-HOUR PRENATALSPA DAY ONLY $175.00

Includes:An Individual Maternity Yoga Session

A 60-Minute PreNatal MassageLuxury Facial with Organic Mask

Pamper yourself or that special someone today!

Vote for usBest Holistic Health Center

toledocitypaper.com

Board a TARTA bus and great val-ue is yours with reasonable fares, improved equipment, upgraded facilities and more convenient routing. One-way fares include adults and children age 6 and up paying $1 or 1 token, children under age 6 riding for free with an adult and many more options. Gift TARTA passes, tickets and tokens this Christmas to give a family safe and secure travel around Toledo!

1127 W. Central Ave., Toledo419-243-RIDEwww.tarta.com

888-626-9112 • www.calphalon.comCalphalon Contemporary Nonstick cookware is dishwasher safe. So be as daring as you want - the cleanup is easy!

What’s

Cooking

Good

Looking?

All Aboard!

continued on p. 20

continued from p.17


Reger’s Church Supplies & Religious Gifts4100 Secor Rd., Toledo419-474-4740www.regers.com

The beautiful and intricate nativity scenes and statues at Reger’s Church Supplies & Religious Gifts bring back the meaning of Christmas. And it doesn’t stop there. Religious ornaments, home decor, stocking stuffers, baptism and christening outfits, books and DVDs adorn the store, leaving you with an overwhelming selection of how to make the holidays meaningful, beautiful and special.

Serenity Health & Wellness Center 1685 Lance Pointe Rd., Maumee419-891-2181www.serenityspamaumee.com

Serenity Health & Wellness Center in Maumee is offering holiday specials and packages that everyone will love, especially hard-working moms! They offer over 20 differ-ent services including prenatal services, detoxification, relaxation treatments, sports enhancement and more to honor the body both physically and mentally. Receive a two-hour Spa Day including a Luxury Facial and Full Body Massage for only $99. Gift certificates may be cus-tomized and purchased from their website and printed or emailed directly to your loved one!


Serenity is Key

KeepingChrist in Christmas



The ultimate treat for every sweet tooth is a trip to Boyd’s Retro Candy Store. The family-owned business is a child’s paradise with a Willy Wonka feel and an endless supply of candy. Holiday gift baskets ($19.99) and retro mesh stockings filled with candy ($9.99) will bring more cheer to homes this December. Make your own candy mixby focusing on specific decades. A very retro way to celebrate the holidays!

Satisfy a Sweet ToothBoyd’s Retro Candy Store954 Phillips Ave., Toledo419-720-7387www.boydsretrocandy.com

EXTENDED WINTER HOURS:DEC. 26TH-JANUARY 1STWINTER SPLASH ACTIVITES:

SATURDAYS IN DECEMBER CRAFT TIME 2PM - 4PM STORY TIME - 7PM - 8PMSANTA VISITS DECEMBER 20TH!

Holiday Inn Splash BayIndoor Water Park1705 Tollgate DriveMaumee, Ohio 43537419-482-7777Visit SplashBayResort.comfor hours, rates and specials!

Splash Bay Waterpark1705 Toll Gate Dr., Maumee, 419-482-7777www.splashbayresort.com


Make a

Splash

Dive into Splash Bay Waterpark for year round indoor water activities! Gift a mem-bership of Splash passes for a family on your Christmas list, or treat your clan to a year’s worth of access to 35,000 square feet of water fun. The adjoining Holiday Inn also offers Splash Bay gift cards in $50 de-nominations, which can be used toward the hotel and/or waterpark.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Visit our 3 Toledo Locations this Holiday Season

https://retail.libbey.com

Downtown (Erie St.)

Levis Commons

Franklin Park Mall

The Perfect Gift for Your Family and Loved Ones This Holiday

continued on p. 22


Once upon a time, a concept was created that families should share and recycle gently-used baby and children’s products, and parents everywhere rejoiced! Once Upon a Child buys and sells gently used kids’ clothing, shoes, toys and baby gear, giving you the opportuni-ty to purchase products in your neighborhood store that are safe and affordable. You’re sure to find perfect Christmas gifts for the mini fashionistas in your life!

Recycle

the Love


Once Upon a Child www.onceuponachild.com


7565 W. Sylvania Ave.Sylvania

419- 841-7500

140 E. South Boundary St. Perrysburg

419-872-8616

5644 Monroe St.Sylvania

419-841-7500

GET SOMETHING

SWEET THIS

HOLIDAY SEASON!

4100 Secor Rd. | Toledo, OH 43623 | 419.474.47404100 Secor Rd. | Toledo, OH 43623 | 419.474.4740

Keep Christ in Christmas

Mon - Fri: 9:30am - 6pmSat: 9:30am - 4pmwww.regers.com

Remember Reger’sfor all your

special gift needs


OPEN ENROLLMENT for Fall Sessions Kindergarten through adultHOME SCHOOL CLASSES scheduled for Friday mornings

Adult and highschool classes available daytime and eveningsClasses scheduled on a monthly basis

ART MATERIALS/CUSTOM FRAMING / ART CLASSES FOR KINDERGARTEN THROUGH ADULT

for the love of

Registration Jan. 4th 2-5pmClasses start Jan. 12th

Usage of tap & ballet shoes with registrationPersonal & rewarding recitalsBirthday Parties

419.473.0999 | 2249 TREMAINSVILLE RD.

WWW.MINIMOTIONSDANCE.COM

AGES 2 AND UP

'

Apply at SuperSchades.org

We are now acceptingapplications online forsummer camp in 2015

1024 Gloucester DriveToledo, OH 43615419-392-8727

[email protected]


MOMThe

UPSIDE DOWN

A Holiday Tradition that Takes a Little Teamwork

Shimmer pays a visit to the Rochelle family

By Kerri Rochelle

Dear Mrs. Rochelle,

The Holiday Season is once again upon us so I will soon make my journey from the North Pole to

your house for our month-long tradition of observing your daughters’ behavior and delivering the

naughty/nice report to Santa.

I am excited to spend another season with your family, but listen, we both know the tremendous

amount of pressure that we will feel to outdo the last year’s shenanigans. The girls expect to be

amused each morning. And your Facebook friends, well, let’s face it, they are already waiting with

bated breath to see your photos of my antics every day. So we are going to have to really work to-

gether this year to live up to everyone’s expectations.

I wanted to get you a list of supplies that we are going to need to pull off another whimsical season.

Your kids are bright. They talk to their friends. They have been through this before so they are going

to be looking for some of the common elf mischief. Let’s cover the clichés right off the bat. I will need

a bag of mini marshmallows- lots of mini marshmallows, candy canes, an economy-sized bottle of

syrup and candy kisses. Please have Legos and Barbie dolls easily accessible for me so I don’t have to

go hunting for them again. I will need red and green dry erase markers, I prefer new so they are nice

and bright. And don’t forget gift bows and a pack of note cards. That should take care of the basics.

Now for the creative stuff. I still have a lot of details to work out. Topping some of last year’s scenes is

not going to be easy, but I will give it my greatest effort. Honestly the “elfie” I took with your phone

and making the pom poms was some of my best work ever. We set the bar high last year mom, but I

think we can do it. I am up for the challenge and with your help of strategically leaving the right sup-

plies out, we can make this season one your daughters will never forget!

I apologize in advance for the messes that I undoubtedly will make and beg you to give me as much

advance notice of any overnight trips as possible. You have no idea how much your little holiday

getaways mess with my itinerary. Your cooperation in all of these matters is appreciated.

Love,

P.S. Would you mind talking to your dog about my visit?

I don’t like how he looks at me.

Well the holidays are here and with the holidays, come the Elf on the Shelf visits. We have a very active elf named Shimmer who comes to stay with us every year through December. She makes our mornings a lot of fun and adds an extra element of magic to the season, but not without a lot of planning and preparation on her part (and mine). I received this letter from her just before Thanksgiv-ing and wanted to share it:

As the mother of three girls who spend much of their time upside-down as gymnasts and cheerleaders, Kerri Rochelle often feels upside-down herself

from the chaos. She blogs about the wow, and some of the not-so-wow, experiences of being a busy mom to Mikayla, 14, Macie, 11, and Mylee, 7,

at theupsidedownmom.wordpress.com.

Shimmer


I was so excited to see a new restaurant had opened in place of the now closed Bobby V’s on Airport and Albon Roads. I loved Bobby V’s and the friendships I had developed with everyone there. I was sad to see it close. There are not many restaurants out that direction, which is very close to my home. So part of me was really hoping the kids and I would enjoy the new place.Sometimes, it just takes a few tries

In the 12 years I have resided in the Holland area, the building at Airport and Albon has been the home to four restaurants; Bleu Smoke recently debut-ing as the fifth in early September. With the opening of Glass City Athletics and soon Skyzone just across the street, their timing and location couldn’t have been more perfect.

Owners Chris Zdunski, Brian Ruff, and Charles Kema possess a great deal of restaurant management and culinary skill, making quite a trio to get a new place off the ground. “We all have a very strong culinary background,” said Chris. “I have been wanting to do this for a long time.” Zdunski spent years traveling the country opening restaurants for large chains.Wonderful service and family friendly

After spending years in the service industry, I quickly learned it’s a no-brain-er to understand people can purchase your product or service anywhere. It’s customer service that will make or break you. My kids and I stopped in Bleu Smoke Bar & Grill for the first time on a recent Thursday evening. I immediately felt like they were sincerely happy to see us and couldn’t wait to give us a great dining experience.

After seating us, the greeter, Brian, brought over crayons and coloring books for my sons. They may no longer be tod-dlers, but things are a bit more pleasant

Bleu Smoke Bar & Grill8165 Airport Hwy, Holland, OH 567-742-7707Mon-Thur: 11am-1amFri: 6:30am-1amSat-Sun: 11am-1amwww.facebook.com/pages/Bleu-Smoke-Bar-grill/684671761604921

Perfect Recipe For Success

“Taste the difference” at Bleu Smoke Bar & Grill

By Karen L. Zickes

when they are kept occupied. We en-joyed their complementary Blue Cheese Balls (their version of the hush puppy) with their house made sweet and sour sauce. We also loved their Reuben egg rolls for an appetizer.

They offer a wide variety on the menu with even more items to come, according to Zdunski. If you are in the mood for just soup and salad or a sand-wich, you’ll find several to choose from. However, entrees include things such as the goat cheese and herb stuffed chicken that I enjoyed with two sides for $11.99, chicken alfredo, or what Zdunski says is a house favorite, the 10-ounce center cut sirloin topped with their special sweet bleu cheese and bacon mix then crusted in the broiler.

The kiddos can enjoy four choices on the kids menu for $3.99 or $4.99 and they get a choice of a drink and side. The mac and cheese was outstand-ing, and my youngest son enjoyed the grilled cheese and house fries. A ham and cheese melt and chicken tenders are additional options.

My daughter loved the M.T.B. Squared sandwich that was grilled like a panini and had thick sliced mozzarella, grilled tomato and fresh basil. Kema sent us home with a complimentary slice of fabulous homemade cheesecake, ensur-ing we left as happy customers. I can see the kids and me becoming regulars in no time.

Karen Zickes is a mom of three active children and freelance writer who resides in

Holland, OH. She can be reached in c/o [email protected].

Kid-friendly YesTo avoid wait AnytimeNoise level ModerateBathroom amenities No changing station High chairs YesGot milk Yes, as well as orange juice, cranberry juice, and lemonadeKids’ menu Yes

THE SHORT COURSE


1 MONDAY

Grinch Day Storytime - Storytime will feature the holiday classic, How the Grinch Stole Christmas and holiday-themed activities. 4pm. Barnes and Noble Fallen Timbers, 3100 Main St., Maumee. 419-878-0652. store-locator.barnesand-noble.com Free

It’s a Dork Day Party - All Dork Diaries fans are invited to a celebration in honor of dorks everywhere with games and music. 6-7pm. Sylvania Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. 419-882-2089. toledolibrary.org. Free

Pet Photos with Santa - Bring your furry friend to see Santa for festive pet photos. Mondays through December 15. 6pm. Prices vary. Santa’s Winter Wonderland in Lake District Fallen Timbers, Maumee. theshopsatfallentimbers.com/events/pet-photos-with-santa

2 TUESDAY

Christmas Stockings - Stitch and deco-rate a felt Christmas stocking for yourself or a gift. Registration required. For ages 6-10. Also on December 9. 5-5:45pm. $25. Create Perrysburg, 422 Louisiana Ave., Perrysburg. 419-873-6240. createperrysburg.com

Frostology: The Science of the Season - Explore the slippery science of snow, make engineers out of elves and create masterpieces from paper with holi-day-themed activities and demonstrations. Through January 4. Closed on Mondays, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. 10am-5pm Tuesday-Saturday; noon-5pm Sunday. $10/adults, $8/ages 3-12, $9/seniors, free/ages 2 and under. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. 419-244-2674. imaginationstationtoledo.org

3 WEDNESDAY

Festive Feast - Feel the holiday spirit with a buffet style feast, family-friendly seasonal entertainment and photos with Santa. Visit the Winter Sisters, presented by Laurel’s Princess Parties December 1-3. Monday-Wednesday through December 17. $35/adults, $25/ages 2-11.

DailyLetters to Santa, Santa is ready to hear from all boys and girls. All letters that include a return address will receive a response from Santa. Santa’s Mailbox at The Town Center at Levis Commons, 3201 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. 419-931-8888. shopleviscommons.com Free

Monday, Wednesday, Friday, SaturdayOpen Play at Build It!, Children of all ages will have fun playing with toys and socializing with other children. Closed December 24-26. 10am-6pm Monday; 10am-1pm Wednesday & Friday, 10am-noon Saturday. $5/child per hour. Build It!, 5180 Chappel Dr., Perrysburg. 419-690-9311. builditper-rysburg.com

TuesdaysBabytime, Young children will learn early literacy skills through stories, rhymes and music. For babies up to one year old with an adult. 10-10:45am. Sylvania Library Meeting Room, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. 419-882-2089. toledolibrary.org

6-8:30pm. The Toledo Zoo, 2700 Broadway St. toledozoo.org

4 THURSDAY

Disney on Ice: Princesses and Heroes - Individuals of all ages will enjoy watching Disney on Ice: Princesses and Heroes. 7pm Thursday and Friday; 11am, 3pm & 7pm Saturday; 11am & 5pm Sunday. Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave. 419-255-3300.

Mothers’ Center of Greater Toledo Meeting - Working and stay-at-home moms can meet for this special weekly moms’ group with family activities and discussion topics. Reliable childcare provided. Also on December 11. 9:45-11am. McCord Rd. Christian Church, 4765 N. McCord Rd., Sylvania. motherscenter.net

5 FRIDAY

The Polar Express Holiday Storytime - The Polar Express story will be read, along with some activities. Kids can come in their PJs, too. 7pm. Barnes and Noble Fallen Timbers, 3100 Main St., Maumee. 419-878-0652. Free

Kids’ Night Out - Children will enjoy animal themed activities and visit with some adoptable animals as they take a tour of the facility. Snacks and a beverage will be provided. For ages 6-12. 6-8pm. $25. Toledo Area Humane Society, 1920 Indian Wood Circle, Maumee. 419-891-0591. toledoareahumanesociety.org

6 SATURDAY

Victorian Christmas At Oak Grove School - Experience the magic of Christmas in the 1890s inside a bustling one-room schoolhouse. Kids will have the chance to decorate Victorian tree orna-ments and sample a traditional festive drink. Reservations required. Noon-2pm. Wildwood Preserve Oak Grove School, 5100 W. Central Ave. Free

Princess Party: Snow White - Come to the library for a royal celebration of Disney’s Snow White with games, crafts

and a showing of the film at 2pm. 1pm. Way Public Library, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. 419-874-3135. waylibrary.info Free

8 MONDAY

Sweet Harmony Holiday Performance - Get ready for the holi-days as Sweet Harmony, a women’s aca-ppella ensemble, entertains the audience with seasonal songs. Refreshments will be provided. 7-8pm. Sylvania Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. 419-882-2089. toledolibrary.org Free

9 TUESDAY

Make a Gift: Paint a Holiday Ornament - Learn how to use differ-ent types of brushes and layer ceramic underglazes to achieve brilliant, bold, and beautiful colors on your ornament. For all ages. Reservations required. 6-7:30pm. $20/ornament. The Art Supply Depo, 29 S. St. Clair St. 419-720-6462. artsupplydepo.com

11 THURSDAY

TSA Winter One Acts - Come watch students from the Toledo School for the Arts perform in winter one acts. 7pm. $6/adult, $4/students, seniors. TSA Attic Theater, 333 14th St. 419-246-8732. ts4arts.org

13 SATURDAY

HARD-ly TACK-y Christmas Ornaments - Children will mix and design ornaments from hard-tack dough and learn how to use a hammer and nail to make a punched-tin ornament. Registration required. 10am. $12/mem-bers, $15/non-members. Wolcott Heritage Center, 1031 River Rd., Maumee. 419-893-9602. wolcotthouse.org

16 TUESDAY

Family Center Activities: White Out Celebrate the first days of winter by exploring the galleries in search of snow, then create a unique frame, shadow box or stand using winter white materials. For ages 10 and younger with an adult. 10am-3pm through December 18; 3:30-8pm on December 19. Toledo Museum of Art Family Center, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. toledomuseum.org Free

Nursing Mothers’ Group - Join other nursing mothers for questions and bonding time. ProMedica Toledo Hospital: Harrison McIntosh Tower, 2121 Hughes. 419-291-5667. Free

17 WEDNESDAY

ARTrageous Upcycled Art - Construct various art pieces by using a variety of “up cycled” materials. 4-5pm. Sylvania Library, 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania. 419-882-2089. toledolibrary.org Free

22 MONDAY

A Day of Homemade Gift Creation! Youngsters will have fun creating the perfect gift from their heart for very special people on their holiday gift list. Registration required. Gifts for Dad is from 11am-noon; Gifts for Grandparents is from 1-2pm; Girly Gifts is from 2:15-3:15pm. $15. Create Perrysburg, 422 Louisiana Ave., Perrysburg. 419-873-6240. createperrysburg.com

23 TUESDAY

Partners in Fun: Santa - Preschoolers with an adult companion will enjoy creat-ing their very own Santa. Registration required. 10-11am. $5. 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. 419-872-0305. 577foundation.org

26 FRIDAY

Visiting Artist in the Family Center: Jennifer Haley - Have fun creating tasty, edible art with pastry chef and owner of The Next Sweet Thing bakery, Jennifer Haley. 6-7pm. Toledo Museum of Art Family Center, 2445 Monroe St. 419-255-8000. toledomuseum.org Free

Wild Fridays! : A Quiet Winter’s Night - Bundle up your family for a quiet night hike away from the holiday hustle and bustle. Reservations required. 7-8:30pm. $2. Oak Openings Preserve, Oak Openings Lodge, 4139 Girdham Rd., Swanton.

28 SINDAY

Dinosaur Walk - Step back in time and meet a life-size baby T-Rex from prehis-toric times. Hourly on December 28 from 1-4pm; hourly from 1:30-3:30pm and 11am on December 29. $10/adults, $8/ages 3-12, $9, seniors, free/ages 2 and under. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. 419-244-2674. imaginationstationtoledo.org

29 MONDAY

Glacier Golf - Join the library for a wintry book-themed miniature golf course. Through January 3. Main Library, 325 Michigan St. 419-259-5200. toledolibrary.org Free

Happy Feet - Enjoy a screening of this cute animated family film, following a precious penguin during his first time away from home. 2:30pm. $5. Valentine Theatre, 210 Adams St. 419-242-2787. valentinetheater.com

December2014Winter brightsFriday, 11.14 / The Toledo ZooSince 1986, the Toledo Zoo has been brightening up the dark win-ter nights with its Lights Before Christmas. Thousands of lights illuminate the walkways and ani-mals, creating a unique experience for zoo-goers. New this year is an ice slide (for an additional fee) and live reindeer (no, they aren’t Santa’s). Enjoy visiting with the cold-climate animals like the seals, wolves and snow leopards. Located near the Broadway entrance by the Conservatory is one of the main attrac-tions: the Dancing Lights, an 85-foot Norway Spruce decorated with wide-an-gle LED lights to create an “electrical spectacle.” Through January 4. Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. 3-8pm Sunday-Thursday; 3-9pm Friday and Saturday. $13/adults, $10/seniors aged 60+, $10/children ages 2-11, free/under age 2. The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. 419-385-4040.toledozoo.org


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

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

marketplace ENTERTAINMENT

hELP wANTED

Weekly Public Schedule

Voted Best BirthdayEntertainer

419-472-4333

time and time again!

Restaurants Schedule(Private shows accepted these nights) All times, 6 - 8PMMondays Applebee’s FremontTuesdays Max & Erma’s Sylvania Wednesdays 5th Street Pub PerrysburgThursdays Luckies Barn and Grill Saturdays Spaghetti Warehouse Sundays Granite City Fallen TimbersStand-up Shows Every Friday night at 7 PM at the Fun Factory!

FreeLance writers needed. Send resume to [email protected]

the path to your dream job begins with a college degree. Education Quarters offers a free college matching service. CALL 1-800-375-6219

EverDry is currently seeking high energy Marketing associates to staff various trade show events. We are expanding rapidly and are in need of several new associates to fill these positions. The ideal candidate should have the desire to work with the public.

Having your own transportation and a clean driving record a MUST!

Flexible hours -- hourly wage, weekly and monthly bonuses, and travel reimbursement. No Selling Involved.

Be a part of a 28+ year company that is a member ingood standing of the BBB.

SERVICES

reLiabLe, creative and proFessionaL nanny seeks family. Please email [email protected] with schedule and rates.

dish tv Starting at $19.99/month (for 12 mos.) SAVE! Regular Price $32.99 Ask About FREE SAME DAY Installation! CALL Now! 877-451-6721

FoR SALEmetaL rooFinG - REAL ROOF FOR YOUR HOUSE, GARAGE, BARN; ROOF, CEILING, SIDING. TOP QUALITY/CLOSEOUT. LOW PRICES, FAST DELIVERY, FREE Literature, www.abmartin.net 1-800-373-3703 A.B. Martin Roofing Supply

acorn stairLiFts. The AFFORDABLE solution to your stairs! **Limited time -$250 Off Your Stairlift Purchase!** Buy

Direct & SAVE. Please call 1-800-410-7127 for FREE DVD and brochure.

poLe barns GaraGe Kits and poLe barns, we manufacture, we ship direct, you save. www.apmbuildings.com 888-261-2488

crochet puppy pads and Kitty carpets $5 Book Worms 50cents 419-698-8522

CARS wANTEDcash For cars: Cars/Trucks Wanted! Running or Not! We Come To You! Any Make/Model. Instant Offer - Call: 1-800-569-0003

YOUR AD COULD

BE HERE! CALL

Catherine at 419.244.9859

All Star Music Center(Formerly Peeler Music)

MUSIC LESSONSPiano • Vocal • Guitar • Drums

Violin • Winds • All Levels, 8 & upYOUTH PIANO LESSONS

Available age 5 & upQualified Teachers • Friendly,Clean and Safe Environment

WE SELL, BUY, REPAIR AND RENT ALL INSTRUMENTS

419•593•00142025 S. Byrne at Heatherdownswww.AllStarMusicStore.com

ARE YOU PAYING TOO MUCH FORTHE WRONG HEALTH INSURANCE?

Harmony Health Insurance Resources Serving the Toledo area for over 26 years

Representing United Healthcare, Humana, Aetna, CIGNA, Assurant,Coventry, Blue Cross of OH and MI, and many other companies

ON EXCHANGE?? OFF EXCHANGE??

DEDUCTIBLES TOO HIGH?

SUBSIDY?? NO SUBSIDY??

CALL NOW877-627-1790STOP!

DOWNTOWNANN ARBOR

CALL SHERREL: 734-239-3344

EVENTS join mom’s meet! A community of moms sharing thoughts on raising healthy families and living green. Sample organic products. 419-376-6690.

ANNoUNCEMENTS moms! are you LooKinG For an encouraGinG atmosphere to meet other women and gain practical insights on strengthening your fam-ily? Join us at mom2mom, a mom’s group for women with children of all ages. We meet the first Wednesdays of each month from 9:15-11:15 AM at Christ the Word Church, 3100 Murd Rd, Sylvania. Check us out at www.facebook.com/mom2momtoledo

Free Fatherhood parentinG proGrams! Every Thursday, 6pm at Operation Reseed Ministry. Call to register 419-297-3530

hEALTh & wELLNESS

saFe, easy weiGht Loss! Phentrazine 37.5, a once daily appetite suppressant, boosts energy and burns fat. 60 day supply - only $59.95! To order, call 800-681-2178

Here’s whats coming up in Don’t Miss Out!Don’t Miss Out!

Z January

Issue Date: January 1reserve ad/edit spaceby December 15

TOP DOCSShowcase your prestigious health care professionals and receive FREE BONUS editorial space.

SHOWCASE LOCAL PRINCIPALS, SUPERINTENDENTS

AND ACADEMIC LEADERS THAT ARE PAVING THE WAY

FOR EDUCATION IN

HEAD OF THE CLASS! reserve ad/edit space by December 15

Toledo Parent December 2014

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Transcript of Toledo Parent December 2014