findlay family oct 12

FREEOctObER 2012FREEOctObER 2012FREEOctObER 2012

Fit for children Findlay instructor Barb Matheny introduces yoga for little ones

My only cannoli New La Scola Tuscan Grill impresses p14

The talkThe secret to a succesful parent teacher conference

p 6

p15

Spooks, Thrills, and Chills! p8

2 • October 2012 • www.findlayfamily.com

15100 Birchaven LaneFindlay, OH 45840419-425-3049

Marilyn’s LifelongEducational Center“O�ering quality childcare and thebene�ts of daily intergenerationalinteractions!”

Now enrolling for summer!Infants, toddlers and preschoolers.

Open Monday-Friday 6:00am to 6:00pm.

www.mackliniginstitute.org

3www.findlayfamily.com • October 2012 •

4 community snapshots

5 what’s briefly happening

6 new kids on the block

7 exceptional families

17 calendar — compiled by Julian Garcia

19 marketplace

departments commentary14 family planet Meet the teacher Remembering fond favorites and current inspirations — by Rose Roccisano Barto

14 parent profile Horsing around Stella Prescott’s passion for all things equestrian — by David Coehrs

15 food fight Italian intentions Experiencing the new La Scola Tuscan Grill — by Rose Roccisano Barto

p8

Oliver Enright, 2, of Findlay

Adams Street Publishing Co.

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Volume 2 • Issue 10 October 2012 www.findlayfamily.com

features


Best friends, Ava, and Jaela, both 9, of Findlay

Oliver Enright (our cover kid!), age 2 and at right, Skyler Enright, age 3, of Findlay, Ohio

Alex Houck, age 5 Findlay, Ohio

Risa Lindamood, age 10 Findlay, Ohio

Savanna Eakin, age 6 Findlay, at Riverside park

UnwindingFindlay area kids made the most of the last warm days of the year!

sponsored by


Run in the sun Active folks of all ages, students or not, can be a part of the University of Findlay’s Homecoming celebration this fall with the seventh annual Homecoming 5K Run/Walk and Little Oiler Fun Run on Saturday, October 13. It’s a chance to get out in the sun on an autumn morning and have a little heart rate-raising fun on the University’s beautiful campus. There are plenty of prizes available — the top-three finishers in each age division win awards, as well the top UF students and alumni. Door prizes include restaurant gift certificates and a Findlay Weekend Getaway with hotel accommodations and dinner for two. Registration starts at 6:45am in Croy Gymnasium, and the Fun Run begins at 7:45. The race begins and ends at Old Main, and it’s sure to be a great celebration of fitness and the University community. $15 with registration before September 21, $20 after. (Early registration guarantees you a T-shirt!) 1000 N. Main St. 419-434-4589. www.findlay.edu. —MD

Early holiday startA cavalcade of arts and crafts, musical entertainment, food, kids’ fun and more will fill the Hancock County fairgrounds, with a touch of Yuletide to whet your whistle for the coming holiday. It’s the 25th Annual Christmas in October Craft Show, and promoter Judy Cloud guarantees there will be something for everyone. What evolved from similar but smaller events Cloud held while a resident of California and New York has grown with her show in Findlay. More than 300 craft vendors will offer everything from woodwork to jewelry to quilts, and, of course, holiday decor, in a fun, relaxed atmosphere spanning 11 buildings, two large tents and outdoor exhibits. Upwards of 8,000 people are expected to join the festivities that include two dozen food vendors, a barbershop quartet,

pony rides, a clown, face painting and live demonstrations. Oh, and a visit from ol’ Santa too! It’s great way to shop and get in the holiday spirit. $5/adults, Children under 12 free. Saturday, October 6, 10am-5pm; Sunday, October 7, 11am-4pm. Hancock County Fairgrounds, 1017 E. Sandusky St. 419-429-7344. www.cloudshows.biz. Free parking. —DC

What’s past is prologueTake some time to do it the old-fashioned way, as the Hancock County Parks presents Harvest the Past, a charmingly backward-looking celebration of autumn. Come out to Litzenberg Memorial Woods to hear old-school backcountry music from Dulcimer Gatherin’ and see demonstrations of old-time crafts done the way our ancestors did them, from blacksmithing to broom-making. Watch real apple butter made over an open fire, and feel free to take some home (for a donation!). You can visit with “living history” characters in old-time dress at the 1840s McKinnis House, and maybe get their take on our modern world. There are plenty of hayrides, children’s activities and other wholesome fall fun, so make a day of it. Your kids might be thrilled to learn of a world before iPads! Sunday, October 7, 1-5pm. 6100 US 224. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com. —MD

Kids will get a peek at the crafts of the olden days during Harvest The Past; above, Robin Longworth teaches 3-year-old Casen Stateler how apples are pressed to make cider


Youth yogisKids and yoga? Barb Matheny’s Harmony Yoga will show you the combination

is a perfect fit, and great way to bond with your little ones. The retired Findlay teacher is presenting "Big and Little" yoga classes for children ages six months to two years, and preschool yoga classes for those age 3 to 5. These simple lessons, offered in this area exclusively through Matheny, use basic poses, stories, games, books, music and breathing and relaxation techniques in a playful setting. The younger children experience special bonding time with their guardian, and the preschool kids get exercise but also lessons in focus, stress and anger reduction, relaxation, cooperation, social skills and creativity. “Kids are always so busy, and this is a way to introduce some calm into their lives,” Matheny says. “Yoga also helps them become learning-ready.” Certified in YogaEd through the international business’s Miami, Florida, branch, Matheny introduced her children’s classes in January at Whittier Elementary School. Harmony Yoga shares space with Deviate Recording Studio in Findlay, although Barb says expansion is in the works, including the possibility of yoga-themed birthday parties. Six classes over six weeks cost $50, and sessions start Monday, Oct. 22. 106 Southwest St. Free parking. For information, or to sign up, call 419-306-6136 or email [email protected]. —DC


Art meets athleticsSarah Crisp and her crew are now awaken-

ing minds not only with art, but athletics as well.Awakening Minds Art, an organization that

has provided therapeutic art for more than three years in the Findlay area, added athletics to the mix over the summer. Now known as Awaken-ing Minds Art and Athletics, it offers dance, martial arts, baseball and golf as additional ways to help reach individuals with special needs or those who benefit from one-on-one instruction.

“All of our programs here are whatever families need and request,” says Crisp, the organization’s director. “A lot of families started talking about getting their children more involved in extra-curricular activities.” Dance and martial arts instruction takes place at the group’s temporary facility on Crawford Street, with baseball and golf taught at Emory Adams Park, weather permitting. Once the group moves into a permanent building next year, all sports and art will be housed under one roof. More than 40 students currently come to AMA for instruction, with instructors also traveling to nursing homes and other group settings.

It’s all meant to support and encourage the therapy a client is already receiving. For example, if a client has trouble crossing the midline of the body, Crisp and her instructors can work on that while having fun. A baseball player can work on his or her swing, and an artist can paint from one side of a canvas to another. Most sessions are one-on-one.

The group’s second annual fundraiser will be held from 7-10pm on December 1 at Waldo Pepper’s, 411 S. Main St., and will include an art auction and sale. Admission is $10. For more information on the fundraiser or AMA, contact Crisp at 419-302-3892 or by email at [email protected]. www.awakeningmindsart.org —RB

How's your hearing?School signifies the importance of sound ears

By Dr. Larry Schmidbauer Hearing is one of two jobs that the ears and the brain do together. Hearing is what you

do twenty four hours a day seven days a week. It is surveillance of the world around you. Most of what you hear you process subconsciously in short term memory. This is natural and is made possible because you are familiar with the sound you are hearing. Unfamiliar sounds or alert sounds (i.e. alarms, timers etc.) are not processed subconsciously but at a conscious level where your ears and your brain are doing the second job they perform called listening.

Listening is the pairing of the brain and the ears intentionally on a specific task. You turn it on and turn it off. Listening is always at a conscious level. You don't want a lot of interference from background noise here because it makes it harder to listen ... it's distracting.

October is Senior Living Month and it is important that seniors hear well in order to live well and be productive. Hearing sensitivity is one of those things that decline as we get older. Having your hearing evaluated by an audiologist is a great way to find out where you stand compared to normal hearers. Audiologists are the professional to choose because they are diagnosticians and also trained in treatments for hearing loss. They are appropriate "gate keepers" for hearing and balance disorders. They are trained not only to sell you a product but to accurately diagnose the nature and extent of your condition.

Hearing loss is good to get a handle on early. You do not want to wait until it is severe. Untreated hearing loss leads to problems with attention span, memory, anxiety, depression and general health issues. Once we have an accurate hearing evaluation we can talk about your current hearing condition and whether treatment for any hearing loss or tinnitus — ringing in the ears — is necessary. Having a baseline test to compare future tests to is helpful to see what changes occur, which frequencies are involved and how quickly changes are occurring.

Your quality of life is directly related to how well you hear and listen! Be attentive to your ears. Schedule a time to have a discussion with your audiologist today!

Dr. Schmidbauer is an audiologist serving patients in Findlay and the surrounding areas at Professional Hearing Care locations at 1913 S. Main St. and 716 W. Market St., Tiffin.

877-664-7758. professionalhearingtiffin.com

Advertorial

Harrison Holly, 18, has great dedication and passion towards his AMA baseball lessons.


Spooky, scary, sweet or silly — there is something for everyone during the Halloween season. Hayrides, pumpkins, trains, crafts and tours are plentiful in October as we celebrate the harvest. So grab a cup of cider, a light jacket and your camera and sample the many fall festivities in the Findlay area. By Rose Roccisano Barto

Trick or treat times

Findlay: Thursday, October 25, 6:30-8pm

North Baltimore: Thursday, October 25, 6-7:30pm

Arcadia: Saturday, October 27, 6-7:30pm

Fostoria: Wednesday, October 31, 6-7:30pm

McComb: Wednesday, October 31, 6-7pm,

downtown parade at 7:30pm

Walks, Hikes & ToursTuesday, October 2

Pioneer Tyke HikesMckinnis HoMesTeadLitzenberg Memorial Woods6100 U.S. 224 West419-425-PARKwww.hancockparks.comHere’s a great way to wear your little ones out — an adventure at the McKinnis Homestead. Children under three, with an adult, can help grind corn, make cider and meet a pioneer. 10am-2pm. 50 cents.

Saturday, October 2014TH annual encHanTed ForesT Walkdiscovery cenTerOakwoods Nature Preserve1400 Oakwoods Ln. (off CR 144)419-425-PARKwww.hancockparks.comTake a walk through the woods without the spooky stuff! Tour a

character-filled trail with a guide, who will point out the park’s after-dark in-habitants. Designed for ages 5 and up. 7-8:30pm, with tours leaving every 15 minutes. $2 per per-son, registration due October 18.

Saturday, October 20 Horseback Trick or TreaTProject H.O.P.E.6645 T.R. 215 419-469-0415www.projecthope-equinetherapy.comRaise funds for Project H.O.P.E. Equine Therapies, a private, non-prof-it organization that offers therapeu-tic horseback riding activities to area children, at this trick-or-treating on horseback event. Children of all ages are welcome to join, and costumes are not required. $5 donation. 1-5pm.

Ava Cole, 9, Findlay

Monday, October 15Wee ones: baTsdiscovery cenTerOakwoods Nature Preserve1400 Oakwoods Ln. (off CR 144)419-425-7275www.hancockparks.comBats are a little spooky for some folks, but they are also beneficial. Learn about the bat’s place in nature, and maybe bust some bat myths as well. The program includes a story, activities and a craft. It’s recommended for children under three with an adult companion. 10am-1pm.

Sunday, October 28Hands-on naTure: Fairy Fundiscovery cenTerOakwoods Nature Preserve1400 Oakwoods Ln. (off CR 144)419-425-7275www.hancockparks.comBring your family out to frolic with the fairies! Enjoy chil-dren’s activities centering around these little nature lovers and listen to some fairy tales, too. Search for fairy houses on a short hike, then come back to build your own fairy house. Feel free to come dressed as your favorite story book char-acter or pixie. 1-4pm. open house, hike leaves at 2pm.

Learning


Saturdays and Sundays in October2012 Corn MazeSuter’S ProduCe12200 Pandora Rd., Pandora419-384-3331www.suterproduce.comThe theme for Suter’s annual corn maze is Fun on the Farm, and is a non-scary way to add a little adventure to your life — no GPS allowed! Other fall fun includes hayrides and pumpkin picking, corn can-nons, mini-mazes and the biggest ear of corn ever. 1-8pm, with the last admission at 7pm. $6, students kindergarten through college $4.50.

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in OctoberBarnyard Fun and Corn MazeriehM FarMS7244 Ohio 53 North, Tiffin419-992-4392www.funacres.netCheer three little pigs to the finish line, launch veggies at targets, milk cows and burrow through a hay tunnel — there are a lot of ways to have fun at Riehms Farms. A corn maze and hayride round out the day. 4-7pm Fridays, noon-7pm Saturdays, and 2-6pm Sundays. $7 with free admis-sion for those under two years old.

Crafts and

hands-onaCtivities Corn Mazes

and Hayrides

Through early Novemberhay rideS at riverBend reCreation area16618 Township Rd. 208419-425-7275www.hancockparks.comGet a group of 25 or less together and bring them to Riverbend for a fall color adventure on the back of an old-fashioned tractor-drawn hayride. Be sure to bring a blanket and bundle up for a trip through the park, where you might just spy wild-life enjoying the last bit of fall. Hayrides are available through early November, weather permitting, and can be reserved for $60 per load through the park district. Rides can be finished off by using the campground for a campfire or a shelter can be reserved for $40.

They are Aidyn, 3, and Cohen, 2, Levenhagen of

Findlay

Cont. on pg 10


Friday, Saturdays and Sundays through October 28HalloWeekendsCedar PointOne Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky419-627-2350

www.cedarpoint.comYour favorite amusement park gets transformed into 10 haunted houses and nighttime attractions to add an extra scare to your weekend. During

the daytime there is a pa-rade and other fun for kids. Some rides and attractions will be closed Fridays. 6pm-midnight Fridays, 1 1 a m - m i d n i g h t Saturdays and noon-9pm Sun-days. HalloWeek-

ends admission is free with regular park

admission.

Friday, October 5 and Saturday, October 6nigHtfall festivaltoledo BotaniCal garden5403 Elmer Dr., Toledowww.toledogarden.orgA garden can be a thing of beauty, or a place filled with the strange and un-usual. The Toledo Botanical Garden gets transformed for its annual festi-val, with trick-or-treating, art activities and a new fairy garden. Experience a spooky pumpkin patch, eerie lantern walking tour and The Creature of Cros-by Lake. Horse-drawn wagon rides will also be available. 4-10pm. $8 for adults, $7 for students and seniors 60 and over, and $6 for garden members. Those under 12 are admitted free.

Thursday, October 18 and Friday, October 19little Boo at tHe Zootoledo Zoo2700 Broadway St., Toledo419-385-5721www.toledozoo.orgThe Toledo Zoo becomes a Halloween haven for tiny trick-or-treaters. Cos-tumes are encouraged at this event, which is smaller in scope so little legs won’t tire as easily as children visit trick or treat stations around the amphithe-ater. Please bring a bag or bucket for all

those treats! 10am-3pm. Admission is the same as regular zoo admission: $14 for adults, $11 for seniors, $11 for children under 12; children under 2 admitted free.

Friday, October 19 and Saturday, October 20all HalloWs eve CeleBra-tionseven eagles HistoriCal eduCation Center16486 Wapakoneta Rd., Grand Rapids419-509-0095www.seven-eagles.comCostumed storytellers, bonfires, hayrides and lantern tours fill the center’s historical sites. All Hallows activities include hay rides, hands-on activities, food and entertainment. Come early on Saturday and make it a family event by picnicking, canoe-ing, cane-pole fishing or throwing tomahawks. 6-10 p.m. $2.50 for chil-dren and seniors, $5 for adults for $10 per family. Children under four are admitted free.

Saturday, October 20non-sCary HalloWeenHanCoCk County fairgrounds1017 East Sandusky St.419-422-5415www.campfireusa-nwohio. comHalloween doesn’t have to b e all ghosts and ghouls. The tenderest among us appreciate a non-scary event, too! You’ll find that at the annual Camp Fire USA event, which is geared to kids in preschool through fourth grade. Children get to play games, earn priz-es, do a craft and go through a maze. Noon-4pm. $3 for children, who get 10 game tickets. Additional game tickets can be purchased for $1. Adults are ad-mitted free with a child.

Saturday, October 20HalloWeen skaterolling tHunder skating and family fun Center2225 Keith Parkway419-422-7227www.rollingthunderskatefindlay.comRolling Thunder hosts its second Hal-loween skate, with themed music, a Jello eating contest and other family-friendly activities. Awards will be given for the best youth and adult costumes, judged by event sponsor Chase Bank. 7pm-midnight. $8.50 plus skate rental if applicable.

Cora Bowman, 2, of Findlay.

Cont. from pg 9


Cont. on pg 12

Friday, October 19 & Saturday, October 20BooCentennial spooktaCular!618 S. Main St.419-422-4624www.artspartnership.com Celebrate the spooky side of Findlay’s history at this weekend-long event. Friday, 5pm to Saturday, 11:30pm.

Saturday, October 20Camp Fire’s 21st annual non-sCary halloween1017 E. Sandusky St.419-422-5415 [email protected] the Hancock County Fair-grounds Merchant’s Building for treats (no tricks here!). Halloween-themed games, face painting and pumpkins will be on hand, and there will even be a maze. 12-4pm. $3 for 10 tickets/adults free. Ad-ditional tickets are 10 for $1.


continued

Sunday, October 21Findlay yMca Fall Festdowntown Branch300 East Lincoln St.419-422-4424www.findlayymca.orgGames, snacks and a costume contest are included in the non-scary event. Free and open to the public.

Tuesday, October 23halloween paradedowntown Findlay419-422-3313www.hancockleadershipalumni.comThis year’s parade will also feature a costume contest. The route starts on East Lincoln Street, runs along North Main and turns on West Main Cross, and ends on West Street, rain or shine. 7pm. Free.

Thursday, October 25trick or treat at the MallFindlay Village Mall1800 Tiffin Ave.419-423-8732www.shopfindlayvillagemall.comTrick or treaters are welcome at the Findlay Village Mall. Come in through any mall entrance and move along the outer loop of the mall, where mer-chants will be standing outside their stores with treats. 6-8pm. Free.

cont. from pg 11

Friday, October 19 & Saturday, October 20Boocentennial spooktacular!618 S. Main St.419-422-4624www.artspartnership.com Celebrate the spooky side of Findlay’s history at this weekend-long event. Friday, 5pm to Saturday, 11:30pm.

Saturday, October 20caMp Fire’s 21st annual non-scary halloween1017 E. Sandusky St.419-422-5415 [email protected] the Hancock County Fairgrounds Merchant’s Building for treats (no tricks here!). Halloween-themed games, face painting and pumpkins will be on hand, and there will even be a maze. 12-4pm. $3 for 10 tickets/adults free. Ad-ditional tickets are 10 for $1.

Dayton Young, 6, of Arlington

Saturdays and Sundays through October 21puMpkin train ridesnorthwest ohio railroad preserVation11600 County Rd. 99419-423-2955www.nworrp.orgChildren of all ages are welcome on the Pumpkin Train, with departures every 15 minutes to the pumpkin patch, where little ones can choose a special pumpkin and have it shipped by rail back to the station. 1-4 p.m. $2/adults, $1/children 12 and under.

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundayshaunted engine housenorthwest ohio railroad preserVation11600 County Rd. 99419-423-2955www.nworrp.orgEnjoy — or endure — a walk through the creepy dark building full of spooky surpris-es. Organizers empha-size the event is un-suitable for those under age 13. 7pm-midnight Fridays and Saturdays, and 7-10pm Sun-days. $7.

Miley Eakin, 3, Findlay


For Stella Prescott, it’s a simple mat-ter of loving what you do. The lifelong horse enthusiast said her job as director of the Hunter-Jumper program at the Child Equestrian Complex of the Univer-sity of Findlay couldn’t be more perfect if she had designed it herself. “For suc-cess, it starts with really loving what you do. I feel very fortunate that the job I have with the university is the perfect match for me,” she said.

The former owner of Star Ridge Stables in Hardeeville, S.C., 41-year-old Prescott can no longer ride due to health issues, but that hasn’t stopped her from pursuing a career helping students fulfill their equestrian dreams.

Since August of 2011, she has led three-hour-plus UF classes in horse train-ing, equitation (how a rider’s position affects a horse’s travel), and how to be-come an instructor. Her days begin at 5 a.m. and her work can last until 8 p.m. Her classroom is the university’s 30-acre equestrian complex, located about 10 miles from the main campus.

In the process of pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in animal sciences, her students also learn such life skills as com-munication, time management, empathy for living things and dealing with other people. Prescott said because it’s well-known the horse industry requires long hours and does not pay well, she knows the students involved genuinely love and are committed to the work.

“People, in my experience, get in-volved in the horse industry because they are passionate about it,” Prescott said. “This world gives you an immediate connection to family. Within the students themselves, they are really supportive of each other. And as trainers, you get to know them on a really personal level.”

The Georgia native started riding at six years old at a horse camp near her home. She never owned her own horse, but a trainer she rode with through high school kept a mount for her. At 15, Prescott switched trainers and got in-volved in competitions and showings.

She attended the University of Geor-gia, where she worked breaking horses. But her final year of college was spent studying horse breeding during an in-ternship at Queensland University in Australia.

After earning a Bachelor of Science in Equine Science, Prescott did some run-way modeling and got part-time work grooming horses and cleaning stalls in Georgia. In 1996, she was hired as a sta-ble manager at the Olympic games held in Atlanta.

Following 10 years of owning and op-erating her stable business, she decided to accept the university’s offer to direct their equestrian complex, which includes one outdoor and three indoor riding arenas.

Perhaps the greatest life lesson her students learn from horses, Prescott said, is patience.

“They are not machines. It has to be a team effort,” she said. “They’re like a dance partner or a teammate. You can’t lose your temper.”

She misses riding, but feels being on the sidelines, nurturing her students, is more exciting than being in the saddle.

“Their success is due to what they learn from me, and that’s always been a really good feeling. I still get to see that ‘lightbulb’ moment with students. It’s a great thing to be able to have that positive influence on so many people,” she said.

The bottom line, Prescott said, is “you have to love what you do. I love what I’m doing.”

Horsing aroundStella Prescott brings passion to the equestrian field

By David J. Coehrs

My favorite teacher of all time was my second grade teacher, Mrs. Carpenter.

I think almost every one of my classmates would disagree. She was a few years away from retirement, didn’t put up with any nonsense and was known as the strictest teacher in our elementary school – maybe even the world. Still, many years after sec-ond grade, I still remember her fondly as the teacher who let me imagine.

If we were well-behaved, she took a few minutes at the end of the day and had us put our heads down on our desks. She would then tell us of her travels to places we kids literally only dreamed of. It wasn’t so much the math and English and spelling she taught. She gave us a window to the world, and, using our imagina-tions, we could see ourselves walking a dusty path in Egypt or sampling cheese in France.

As the school year begins, parents can only hope our children experience at least one Mrs. Carpenter during their school years. We hope for teach-ers who can communicate not only with our children but with us. In the next few months we will all be signing up for parent teacher conferences. It’s a chance to set the right tone with our children’s teachers.

Prepared parentsThe National PTA suggests doing

some homework before those confer-ences. Talk to your children about what subjects they like best and least, and why. Are there any concepts they just don’t understand? Any concerns they have that might go beyond learning, such as distractions in the class-room? Make a list of things you’d like to discuss with the teacher.

Above all, keep in mind that the teacher is a partner with you in your children’s education, not the sole source of it. I like to use conferences as a way to confirm that all is well. For example, if the teacher describes a child who is completely opposite from the one I know at home, there is an issue. I also have the opportunity to explain some of the nuances of my children, such as who works best on her own and who needs a little nudge sometimes.

After one particularly challenging year, I came up with my own per-sonal checklist. I want to know how accessible the teacher is via email or a phone call. I want to know if my child is tanking a subject right away, not when report cards come home. I also want to know if the teacher is willing to give my child extra help – you’d be surprised how difficult that can be to schedule. In particular, I want a teacher who truly values the parent-teacher partnership.

Last year my oldest daughter had one of those teachers, and she made all the difference. She took a girl who only tolerated math and turned her into someone who is considering it as a career. She always answered my emails promptly, and never made me feel I was bothering her. Maybe I was, but I appreciated her patience and enthusiasm.

Like Mrs. Carpenter, she expand-ed my daughter’s world to include more possibilities, including math as a girl’s game. And that’s what we want

for our children – the chance to grow as a person and see

the world as an exciting, hopeful place. The right teachers, together with parents, can make all the

difference.

Meet the teacherRemembering fond favorites and current inspirations

By Rose Roccisano Barto

Stella Prescott’s passion for horses led to a lifelong equestrian career


Most Italian families have a secret recipe or two — something only they can make. The ingredients of their prized dishes are so under wraps that even if they give the recipe away, they leave out a key ingredient so no one can recreate the deli-ciousness. This is how my family’s cannoli recipe is — often imitated, never dupli-cated.

For those unfamiliar with cannoli, it is a tube-shaped shell of fried pastry dough, filled with a sweet, creamy filling that usu-ally has a mixture of ricotta, sugar and a few other ingredients done in a certain way. In my hometown one branch of the family makes a living creating cannoli and other Italian desserts. Every family has a cannoli recipe, and ours is distinctly rich and deca-dent — something I’ve never experienced outside of the family. Until now.

Italiano with a twistWhen we went to the recently-opened

La Scola Tuscan Grill we were impressed with the décor, which featured a massive stone fireplace separating the dining and bar areas. The colors were warm and rich, from the red and black leather seats to the exposed beams and wine bottle light fix-tures. We sat down and perused the menu., a list of Italian favorites with a twist.

For starters we ordered bruschetta, a toasted Italian bread traditionally served with olive oil and chopped garlic and toma-toes. This version was topped with cherry tomatoes, pesto and cheese — a different but tasty combo! Also at our table was warm bread for dipping into a saucer filled with olive oil.

Although a kids’ menu is available, my preteen daughters chose to order off the main menu. They got half orders of their favorites — for $7.99 each, they got half or-ders of the spaghetti marinara, and also two side salads for $2.75 each. My husband got the trio ($16.95) with lasagna, chicken par-migiana and fettuccine, along with a side salad. I ordered the butternut squash ravi-oli ($15.99) that contained squash, roasted peppers and goat cheese in a sherry butter sauce.

That’s amore!Everyone loved their meals! As is our

usual modus operandi, we all tasted a little bit of everything. My husband was pleas-antly surprised at the richness of the ravioli, which I was impressed with the bite of lasa-gna I pilfered from his plate. My daughters enjoyed bites from both plates, but were fo-

cused on their spaghetti. We knew going in, based on the size of the plates, we’d be taking home leftovers. We used to tease my mother that if there were no leftovers she obviously didn’t cook enough, and that’s the case at La Scola. Be prepared to bring a round of goodies home.

Speaking of goodies, we were not too full to peruse the dessert menu. And there it was — cannoli. We tend to order one or two desserts and share, so my oldest daughter ordered her favorite, crème brulee at $5.99, while I ordered mini-cannoli at $4.50. The crème brulee didn’t last long, and we were lucky to get a bite before it went bye-bye. That’s okay, though, because the cannoli more than made up for that.

It’s hard to describe my family’s canno-li, except to say La Scola has come the clos-est ever. Just the right texture and sweet-ness, sprinkled with chocolate chips and drizzled with sweet sauce. We each had a bite or two, and as one proclaimed they just might save us a trip to New York when we are in a cannoli state of mind.

THE SHORT COURSEKid-friendly? YesTo avoid wait: Consider off-peak hours, but reservations are acceptedNoise level: Just rightBathroom amenities: Changing tables and hand lotion availableHigh chairs? YesGot milk? Yes (plain and chocolate too!) as well as pink lemonade, apple, cranberry, and orange juicesKids’ menu? YesAnything healthy for the kids? Side salads and seasonal vegetablesFood allergy concerns? Some gluten-free options available

La Scola Tuscan Grill2215 Tiffin Ave.567-301-2023lascolaitaliangrill.comOpen: Sundays 11am-9pmMonday thru Thursday 11am-10pmFriday Saturday 11am-11pm

Italian intentionsA family pasta party at the new La ScolaBy Rose Roccisano Barto


1 MONDAY

Home of the Maize - Leaders Farms is the place to be in the Fall. Keep busy all day long with the corn maze, Gem Mining, play areas for the children, the Coop Shoot, scenic hayrides, cow train rides, face painting, live entertainment, costume characters, pumpkins, exotic pet-ting zoo, Barnyard Bouncer and so much more. After dark, there are screams of ter-ror and delight at Scream Acres Haunted Attractions. Get spooked in the Haunted Cornfield or brave your way through the halls of the PanDEMONium Project. Daily through November 4. Leaders Farms, Corner of St Rt 24 and Co Rd 16, Napoleon. 419-599-1570. www.leadersfarms.com 4 THURSDAY

Corn Maze - You don’t have to be a football fan to love the corn maze, designed in honor of the UT Rockets and BGSU Falcons. 16.2 miles of maze cover 16 acres, more than enough terri-tory to work up an appetite for cider and donuts. Maze is open through month of October. Thursdays, 5-10pm; Fridays, 5pm-midnight; Saturdays, noon-midnight and Sundays, noon-8pm. $8 kids ages 10+ / $7 kids 6-9 (accompanied by an adult) and seniors. Butterfly House, 11455 Obee Rd., Whitehouse. 419-877-2733. www.wheelerfarms.com 5 FRIDAY

Public Genealogy Lock In - The Findlay-Hancock County Public Library and the Hancock County Genealogical Society will co-host a genealogy lock-in for the public. Registration is required. Staff and volunteers will be available to assist attendees with their genealogy research.

Friday, October 12 - Sunday, October 14University of Findlay Homecoming & Family Weekend This three day series of events has something fun for the entire family and is the official kickoff to the University of Findlay OIlers’ home football season. On Friday, catch the Homecoming Parade at 7pm followed by the Coronation of King & Queen ceremony and pep rally. There’s also a carnival with mechanical bull riding, laser tag, delicious carnival foods and fireworks at 9pm to top the night off. On Saturday, after the Oilers vs. Ohio Dominican football game at 3pm, enjoy music, libations and great food during the after-party from 8pm-12am for $10. And on Sunday, families are invited to a special afternoon of storytelling, art projects, face painting and more to help celebrate the Mazza Museum’s 30th birthday from 1:30-3:30pm. Mayor of Findlay, Lydia Mihalik, will be on hand to declare the official Mazza Museum Day in Findlay. Go online for full list of events and times. University of Findlay, 1000 N. Main St. www.findlay.edu—JG

{October 2012}All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation, and limited size.

Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.


Participants may also bring a brown bag lunch/supper with them. Registration required. 5-10pm. Findlay - Hancock Public Library, 206 Broadway St. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org 6 SATURDAY

25th Annual Christmas in October Craft Show - Come to northwest Ohio’s largest and most distinctive craft show. This exciting 2 day event will showcase a vast array of Arts & Crafts featuring Americana, Folk Art, Primitive, Country, Contemporary and many other handcraft-ed and designed items. The event includes 11 buildings, 2 big top tents and dozens of outdoor exhibits, demonstrations, pony rides, and entertainment as well as doz-ens of delicious food vendors. There’s also a children’s area! Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 11am-4pm. $5. Hancock County Fairgrounds, 1017 Sandusky St. www.cloudshows.biz

Apple Stir & Crafts Festival - The first weekend in October, families from throughout Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana flock to Holland for a full weekend of fun. Pick your own apples, browse the arts & crafts show, take horse drawn wagon rides, camel rides, and enjoy live enter-tainment and music! There will be plenty of great food and of course the annual apple pie contest. 10am-6pm. MacQueen Orchards, 7605 Garden Rd., Holland. 419-865-2916. www.macqueenorchards.com

7 SUNDAY

Teddy’s Rescue Fundraiser - Teddy’s Rescue will be hosting a Fundraiser with Origami Owl Custom Jewelry. Come and design your very own living locket that tells your story and support Teddy’s Rescue. 2:30-4:30pm. Teddy’s Rescue, Inc., 12409 County Road 99. 567-429-1695. www.origamiowl.com Cont. on pg 18


MONDAY-FRIDAY Mom & Tot Skate, Bring the little ones to the Cube for open ice skating Monday-Friday. 10am-11am. $2 child/$3 adult skates included. The CUBE, 3430 N. Main St. 419-424-7176. www.findlayohio.com MONDAYSStory Time, Hear stories with songs. For all ages. 11:15-11:45am. Free. Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, 206 Broadway St., Findlay. 419-422-1712. www.findlaylibrary.org TUESDAYS Starflight First Grade Trail Starter, Camp Fire USA connects children and families with caring, trained adults in an

intimate group atmosphere through our club programs. first and third Tuesdays. 3:30-4:30pm. $15. 733 Wyandot Street, Findlay. 419-422-5415. www.campfireusa-nwohio.com

WEDNESDAYS Toddler Art Zone, Includes a story, art project and music. For ages one to four. 11:30am-12:15pm. $5-$10. YMCA, Downtown Branch, 300 E. Lincoln St., Findlay. 419-422-8249. www.findlayymca.org

First and second Grade Art Classes, each month focuses on an ele-ment of design. Students will explore new art techniques and media. 4-5pm. $30 per month. Findlay Art League, 117 W.

Crawford St., Findlay. 419-422-7847. www.findlayartleague.com THURSDAYS Jr. Teens in Action, This is for children grades six to eight. Curriculum is based on the Five Trails of Camp Fire USA. The Trail to Knowing Me. The Trail to Family and Community. The Trail to Creativity. The Trail to the Environment. The Trail to the Future. 5:30–6:30pm. Camp Fire USA, 305 W. Hardin St., Findlay. 419-422-5415. www.campfireusa-nwohio.com

12 FRIDAY

The Diary of Anne Frank - Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl is one of the most widely read books documenting the Holocaust. It is the still, small voice of an adolescent girl living under extraor-dinary conditions that speaks above the clamorous cruelty of war. With an endear-ing style and a remarkably strong spirit, Anne records in her diary the events and personalities within her secret hiding place for nearly two years. With vivid clarity, playwrights Goodrich and Hackett bring to life the horrors of the war and the opti-mism and faith of one young girl who con-tinues to believe that “people are really good at heart.” October, 12, 13 & 20 7:30pm; October 21, 2pm. $7 student / $11 adult. The Ritz Theatre, 30 South Washington St., Tiffin. 419-448-8544. www.ritztheatre.org 13 SATURDAY

Drawing Leaves in Autumn - This workshop is a part of the Adult Education Program and uses pen and watercolor or colored pencil to emphasize color. All supplies provided. Register by Friday, October 12. 10am. $5. Riverbend Recreation Area, 16618 Township Road 208. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com 7th Annual Family 5K Run/Walk - It’s Homecoming/Family Weekend at the University of Findlay and you can be part of the Oiler fun by participating in the 7th Annual Fun Run/Walk and Little Oiler Fun Run. All are welcome to participate, so come out and bring the whole family! Registration 6:45am. University of Findlay, 1000 N. Main St. www.findlay.edu 22nd Annual Van Buren Lions Club Apple Butter Fest & Craft Show - Enjoy excellent crafters, a quilt show, wood carving demonstrations, birds of prey, food vendors, kids’ activities and more. 9am-3pm. Van Buren High School, 217 S. Main St., Van Buren. 419-299-3628. www.vanburenlions.org 14 SUNDAY

Applebutter Fest - Always held the second Sunday of October, this festival features Heritage Craftsmen, juried crafts, entertainment, great food, vintage farm equipment, re-enactment groups and pio-neer demonstrations, the traditional apple butter stir, and shops brimming with good-ies. 10am-5pm. Downtown Grand Rapids. www.applebutterfest.org 15 MONDAY

Wee Ones: Bats - This program includes a story, activities and a craft. It’s recommended for children 3 or under with an adult companion. 10-11am. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com 17 WEDNESDAY

Camouflage in Nature - Take a nature hike to study things in nature that are hard to find. 6-7:30pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com 20 SATURDAY

14th Annual Enchanted Forest Walk - Take a stroll through our charac-ter-filled trail; groups will leave the “Doc” Phillips Discovery Center with a guide every 15 minutes. Warm up afterward by

Cont. from pg 17


to place your ad

419.

244.

9859

marketplaceHELP WANTED

Freelance writers needed. Send resume to: [email protected]

drivers needed to deliver Findlay Area Family in Findlay and surround-ing areas: Once a month, great pay. Send resume to [email protected]

career OppOrtunity: Develop a sales/construction management pro-fession with established company. 419-754-1152

ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE

FREE CLASSIFIEDS: Individuals may receive one free 20-word ad per month (products offered in ads must sell for under $100). Each additional word 40 cents, payment must accompany ad. Free ads run 1 month and are reserved for private-party’s use, noncommercial concerns and free services. Ads MUST be typed or neatly printed and MAILED, EMAILED, or DROPPED OFF to Findlay Area Family Classifieds by the15th of the month prior to publication. LINE CLASSIFIEDS: Only $10 per month for 20 words or less. Each additional word is 40 cents each and any artwork will be $5 extra.DISPLAy CLASSIFIEDS: Display classifieds with a box may be purchased for $25 per column inch. Photos are accepted with ads for an additional $5 per photo.

DEADLINES: Ad copy must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication.

PAyMENT: Payment must be received before an ad can be placed. We accept checks, cash, money orders and credit cards (Visa/Mastercard).

MAIL oR DRoP oFF: Findlay Area Family Classifieds, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, Ohio 43604

PHoNE: 419-244-9859 EMAIL: [email protected]: Sorry, NO REFUNDS given.Misprints: Credit toward future ads.

Earn $28,000

Feeling Stressed? Need to feel your best?

You’re worth it! Call Licensed Massage Therapist

Jackie Jones 419-420-9955

By appointment only

LESSoNSdance class for hearing impaired school age children. Sundays 4 p.m. 419-309-1610

Music lessOns. Piano, Voice, Guitar. BGSU Grad. 419-422-7804

XX

the outside fireplace and enjoy refresh-ments. Participants are required to be ages 5 and up. Register by Thursday, October 18. 7-8:30pm. $2. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Lane. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com 22 MONDAY

open Arms Annual Meeting - The Open Arms Annual Meeting will feature special guest Beth Holloway. Join Beth as she shares her journey through a mother’s worst nightmare. When her daughter vanished in Aruba in 2005, Beth’s world changed forever. Now she tours the nation raising awareness with her story of inspiration. Reservations are required by October 18th. 7-10pm. Free. Parkview Church, 15035 E. St 12. 419-420-9261. www.openarmsfindlay.org 27 SATURDAY

Passport to Fishing Workshop Spaces are still available for adults,

groups, or conservation clubs who have a sincere interest in taking kids fishing and want to become certified fishing instruc-tors. Passport to Fishing is a one-day instructor training program that qualifies individuals to become Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife cer-tified fishing instructors, similar to a hunter education instructor. All participants will need to pass a background check before being certified. 9am-4pm. Free. Wildlife District Two, 52 Lima Ave. 419-429-8347. www.wildohio.com 28 SUNDAY

Fairy Fun - Bring your family out to frol-ic with fairies! Enjoy children’s activities all about these little nature lovers and listen to fairy tales too. Take a hike to search for fairies then return to the Discover Center to make a fairy house of your own. Feel free to come dressed as your favorite storybook character or pixie. 1-4pm. Oakwoods Nature Preserve, 1400 Oakwoods Ln. 419-425-7275. www.hancockparks.com

www.AndrewMartinMagic.com

Shorties Tuesdays 6-8 PMPizza Papalis Wednesdays 6-8 PM

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ABC’s Wife Swap Magicians 419-472-4333

Birthdays • BanquetsSchools • Scouts • More!

Advertorial

Statistics show that most fatalities and property damage caused by residen-tial fires occur after the first critical minutes. These incidents can be avoided if the fire is fought immediately. How is this possible? Only through a complete and balanced approach to fire protection that targets the fire from the inside out during the first few minutes. These initial minutes determine the path a fire will take—from a single flame to a fatal tragedy. To avoid the worst, we need to focus on designing a balanced fire protection plan—the first line of defense against fire before the fire department arrives.

The number of residential fires over the years remains consistent. That is why it is more important than ever to ensure that once a fire begins, all systems are in place to contain the initial flames while your family exits safely.

According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), a successful balanced fire protection plan should be designed so that your life does not de-pend solely on any single safeguard. Multiple safeguards shall be provided for your family’s safety in case something is ineffective due to human error or system failure. How to make sure your family is protected from unnecessary danger? Follow these simple steps:

^ Assess your current safeguards ^ Obtain necessary equipment (escape ladders, fire extinguishers,

smoke & fire alarms) ^ Install equipment and create a plan for regular checks and

maintenance by competent fire equipment service personnel ^ Practice your evacuation plan with your family

Adapted from Fire Equipment Manufacturers’ Association, Inc. report: Balanced Fire Protection to Promote Life Safety, for Stump’s Fire Protection

A burning issue How good is your fire protection plan?

findlay family oct 12

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