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How to vote in 2024

By
Paula Wethington
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0
Lucas Zielinksi, with Turning Point USA, hands Amelia Mathkour, a music, business and tech major at Owens Community College, a pamphlet about voting registration. Zielinksi said he was on campus for the day to help students register to vote. (TFP Photo/Lori King)

Lucas County Board of Elections explains voting details, process

Toledo – With Election Day a month away, preparations are in full swing at the Lucas County Board of Elections office.

“We’re up and running and getting everything ready,” said Timothy Monaco, deputy director of the elections office. “It’s a wonderful time. It’s important to exercise your right to vote.”

Logistics that the staff and officers have been handling for weeks on behalf of Lucas County’s 303 voting precincts include preparing ballots, training precinct election officials, and getting early voting dates and times posted on their website.

Monaco said the most commonly asked question from voters during the past couple of weeks has been when absentee ballots will arrive in the mail. 

Here’s the answer: Ohio voters can look for the absentee ballots starting Oct. 8, which is one day after registration ends for the Nov. 5 election.

The Lucas County Board of Elections staff doesn’t give predictions on voter turnout, Monaco said. But, according to state election records, 67 percent of registered Lucas County voters participated in the 2020 presidential election, and 66 percent did so in the 2016 presidential election. This participation includes absentee voting, early in-person voting and traditional Election Day voting.

Those choices are meant to help all eligible voters participate, whether they prefer going in person to a local polling site or to cast a ballot before they travel out of town.

“It’s important to make your plan as to who you are going to vote for,” Monaco said. “Make sure you make a plan and know what is on your ballot.”

While the presidential campaign is the key race of the Nov. 5 election, there are also races in Lucas County for local judges and city officials. For those who want to see the list ahead of time, ballot proofs are available for review on the election board’s website.

“Ballots will be three pages for everyone and four pages for some,” Monaco said.

While some people remember how they wish to vote when going to the polls, others find it helpful to bring paper notes or refer to a list on their phone, Monaco said. “Some folks really come prepared,” he said.

“It’s also important to be respectful at the location,” he added, referring to an Ohio law that prohibits photos of marked ballots. “We do ask that you limit cell phone use at the ballot.”

Many other election details are explained at lucascountyohiovotes.gov.

Election calendar

Key dates for the November 5 election:

  • Military and overseas civilian voting: Started Sept. 20.
  • Voter registration deadline: 9 p.m. Oct. 7.
  • Early in-person voting season: Oct. 8.-Nov. 3.
  • Absentee ballot postmark deadline: Nov. 4.
  • Election Day: Nov. 5.

CAMPUS TALK

OWENS COMMUNITY COLLEGE STUDENTS SOUND OFF ABOUT VOTING

Question: How important is voting to you?

Oliver Odendahl
James Johnson
Nivant Dawson
Sydney Stanley
David Case III

Voting is not my main concern, but it is pretty important because it is the future of America and I would like to have a say in what is gonna be my future. I usually try to vote on voting day, if I can’t I’ll do the absentee ballot.

Oliver Odendahl | EMT Major | Tontogany Resident

I am not a registered voter. If I was to lie to you I’d say yes. But honestly, I don’t have enough time … it’s not really a main priority, even though it should be. I do plan on voting at some point, maybe when I’m in my adult phase. Even though I’m not a registered voter I do think voting is important because it basically determines the society and the rules and regulations we live by.

James Johnson | Broadcast Media Technology Major | Toledo Resident

I’d say voting is very important. There’s certain aspects of it that do feel sort of depressing, when you think about it, because a lot of people would say people voting normally wouldn’t matter because of a small majority in the Electoral College – their votes matter 100 times more than your own. That’s what it feels like at least from what I know. It does feel a little degrading knowing that’s going to happen.

Nivant Dawson | Business Major | Toledo Resident

I think voting is important, but I’m not exactly sure why it’s important. I mean, there’s a lot of things that come from it. You’re voting for someone that you’re putting your trust and you’re faith into to guide us all in the right direction, but we just all don’t know what that direction is yet. So, we’re just kind of free-balling it, in a way. So, I don’t know … I’ve never voted before but this will be interesting. I really don’t know what all is involved. I just have a lot to learn about voting – like what I should be looking for in the leader I’m going to be voting for. So, yeah, it’s coming up soon. There’s a lot to learn.

Sydney Stanley | Chemistry Major | Millbury Resident

Voting is very important, especially in this day and age, when everything’s going on.

David Chase III | Literature Major | Toledo Resident
Registration details

Ohio voters must be registered by 9 p.m. Oct. 7 to be eligible to vote in the Nov. 5 election.

Residents can register to vote, look up voter registration, change their address, find an early voting location, look up Election Day polling location or track an absentee ballot at VoteOhio.gov.

Photo ID requirement

Bring your photo ID when voting. The options are:

- Current Ohio driver’s license or State of Ohio ID card.

- Interim ID form issued by Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

- U.S. passport or U.S. passport card.

- U.S. military ID card, Ohio National Guard ID card or U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs ID card.

A registered voter who has changed his or her name since the photo ID was issued will need to show proof of legal name change and sign a form. A photo ID card can show a former address if a current address is on file with the voting records. If you forget a photo ID, you can request a provisional ballot. 

How to vote absentee

An absentee ballot in Ohio needs to be requested, signed, dated and submitted for each election. Military personnel and civilian overseas voters can file one application for all elections happening in a given year.

The application asks for the number on your Ohio driver’s license or Ohio ID card, last four digits of your social security number, or a photocopy of other eligible ID such as a U.S. passport or military ID.

Mailed absentee ballots must be postmarked by Nov. 4 and can be hand delivered to the Board of Elections on Nov. 5.

Additional instructions are on the Ohio Secretary of State’s website.

In-person early voting

Ohio’s in-person early voting season begins Oct. 8 and ends Nov. 3. 

The Lucas County Early Vote Center is at 3737 W. Sylvania Ave. Suite 121 Entrance C (at the rear of the Lucas County Board of Elections building) in west Toledo.

Voting times and dates can be found at LucasCountyOhioVotes.gov.

Election Day voting

Polling sites are open in Ohio from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Nov. 5. You can look up your polling location at VoteOhio.Gov.

What’s on the ballot?

A “ballot proof” is available for review on the Lucas County Board of Elections page. It lists candidates and ballot issues by precinct, so voters know what to expect.

For example: Six president/vice president candidate teams have declared in Ohio, with an additional write-in option available. Other candidate races include U.S. Senator, Lucas County Sheriff and openings on Toledo City Council.

Ohio Issue 1 is a proposed state constitutional amendment that has gained a lot of attention. This issue, if approved, would designate a redistricting commission to draw state legislative and congressional districts.

There are other issues locally, such as a proposed bond issue for the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library and a tax renewal request from the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority.

Are ballot “selfies” allowed?

Ohio does not permit photos to be taken of a marked ballot. It’s actually a fifth-degree felony should that take place, according to Ohio law.

The “I Voted” Sticker

A traditionally popular way to showcase voter participation is through an “I voted” sticker, picked up on Election Day at the polling site.

Ohio’s current “I Voted” sticker design was adopted in 2019 through a student art contest. A red squiggle depicts a map of Ohio, nestled in a blue circle outline, with the phrase “Ohio Voted.”

Voters are invited to download the image to share on social media at the Ohio Secretary of State website. That website also has also a “future voter” coloring page for children available for download.

Is campaigning allowed at election sites?

Ohio does not allow election campaigning, also known as electioneering, within 100 feet of a voting site. This means no campaigning messages on attire such as shirts or hats, Monaco said.

Two small United States flags are placed at each voting site to designate the “neutral” zone where this applies. 

Where is the Board of Elections office?

If you need to visit the Lucas County Board of Elections regarding a voting matter, that office moved about two years ago from its former location at One Government Center to 3737 W. Sylvania Road in West Toledo.

When are election numbers official?

Ballots cast on Election Day will be delivered in person to the Lucas County Board of Elections for the counting procedures.

There will be numbers reported after that count is complete. 

The Ohio Secretary of State does not consider voter counts to be official until two or three weeks later, after provisional ballots are accounted for and to give time for absentee ballots to arrive that met the postmark deadline.

End-of-year reflections and gratitude

By
Lori King
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Lori King, center, visits a University of Toledo UT:10 TV production class to recruit interns for the spring semester. Max Alfonso, center in red, is one of those interns. (Courtesy Photo by Kevin O'Korn)

As the year comes to a close, I want to take a moment to thank all our readers, donors and subscribers for supporting our mission of providing local journalism that matters.

Reflecting on the past six months, I’m amazed at what we’ve accomplished in such a short time. Since June 3, when the TFP board hired me as the editor-in-chief, we’ve been busy moving into our office above the Blarney Irish Pub at 605 Monroe St. (a heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated desks, chairs, tables, and even a fridge). We’ve hired staff, freelancers, and interns; built a website; secured funding to help keep us operational; and worked to spread the word that we’re up and running as a nonprofit, online-only local newsroom.

At this point, we only publish one story and cartoon a day, but that will hopefully increase as our staffing increases (my New Year’s resolution). We are also developing a podcast page, and will not only have our own podcast shows, but we’ll host other local podcasters, like Stage Door and Jaden Jefferson Reports.

Toledo Free Press publisher and founder Tom Pounds greats a new team of freelancers during the first staff meeting in the office. (TFP Photo/Lori King)

By the way, I no longer call the TFP a newspaper—after all, we don’t publish hard copies anymore. It’s a tough habit to break, considering I’ve been in the print newspaper business since 1980. But times have changed. It’s now the 21st Century, and how we disseminate news has changed dramatically. We’re witnessing the fast disappearance of legacy newspapers in our own lifetime, something I never thought would ever happen. At least we’re saving trees …

Unfortunately, as newspapers fade, news deserts and ghost newspapers are on the rise. According an executive summary in a 2024 report of The State of Local News, more than 3,200 print newspapers have vanished since 2005. In 2023 alone, 130 newspapers ceased operations. Imagine the void left in communities without journalists reporting on local events; uncovering corruption; and holding public officials who make our policies accountable.

It’s our job as a nonprofit newsroom, which are thankfully increasing, to shed light on the truth and serve our community. Read the 2024 report … the details are alarming.

The Toledo Free Press staff: audience engagement editor Kelly McGilvery, from left, editor-in-chief Lori King, assignment editor Erin Holden and investigative reporter Stephen Zenner. (TFP Photo/Alonzo Torres)

When I taught journalism and media communication at Owens, the University of Toledo, and Wayne State, I always surveyed students on the first day of class about their news habits. I was initially shocked that most of them had never read a newspaper. That’s right … never.

Those who did pay attention to news got it from social media, like X (formally known as Twitter and now owned by billionaire Elon Musk, who makes you pay for a blue checkmark rather than earn it); TikTok (which capitalizes on partisan algorithms, though its fate is nigh); Facebook (now capitalizing on paid boosts to share content); and podcasters, YouTube and online news sites, like Patch, Axios and Vox.

What hasn’t changed? The absolute necessity for journalism to remain fair, balanced, verifiable and reliable.

Tom Pounds and Lori King visit the WTOL studio to secure our media partnership. (Courtesy Photo/Brian Dugger/WTOL)

Starting a newsroom from scratch is no small task, and we expect growing pains for at least another year. Building a strong identity that resonates with the community takes time. I appreciate your patience as we work to fulfill our mission of telling your stories ethically and responsibly.

One of our biggest challenges is simply letting northwest Ohioans know we exist. How can we thoroughly cover Toledo without reader input and news tips? We don’t want to rely solely on press releases.

So, here’s my ask: If you like what we are doing, please share our content on social media, and continue supporting us as we grow.

I also ask that you keep us accountable, as well. Help us ensure that we’re meeting your expectations. If you see something—good or bad—please let us know. You can contact me at loriking@toledofreepress.com.

Before I close, I want to highlight three key tools on our website:

     •           The Donation Button: This button takes you to our Patreon, PayPal and First Amendment Society links. Your contributions help employ our journalists and keep the Toledo Free Press completely free. Donors also receive a weekly newsletter with updates on new hires, staff profiles, event announcements and more.

     •           The Subscription Button: Sign up for Kelly McGilvery’s weekly newsletter, which recaps published stories and behind-the-scenes insights.

     •           The Story Tip Line: Use this to let us know what’s happening in your neighborhoods.

The staff (Erin Holden, Kelly McGilvery and Stephen Zenner) and our board members thank you for supporting local journalism. Together, we can ensure that Toledo and northwest Ohio have the robust news coverage you deserve.

JC’s Comics a superhero for 4 decades

By
Stephen Zenner
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Jaymz Collins (JC), owner of JC’s Comics, chats with a customer inside his shop at JC’s Comics N’ More: Your Pop Culture Super-Store.

Story and photos by Stephen Zenner

Standing underneath black KISS masks dangling from the ceiling and surrounded by thousands of sequential art stories, Jaymz Collins, or JC as he is less formally known, talked about his legacy as an artist who runs the oldest comic book store in Toledo. 

Jaymz Collins (JC), owner of JC’s Comics.
Exterior front of JC’s Comics N’ More.

Collins has amassed a treasure trove of visual details unleashed on his customers when they walk through the doors of JC’s Comics N’ More: Your Pop Culture Super-Store. The few hundred square feet of commercial real estate is filled to the brim with varying merchandise, from comic books, magazines and posters to action figures and games. There is so much that it truly could not be called anything less than a “super-store.” 

“You gotta’ do at least two laps of the place, and even then you’re not guaranteed to catch everything,” said Oak Harbor resident Greg Fillmore as he rummaged through a box of comics. “This is where I come to get my Godzilla fix.”  

Each nook and cranny of the store is leant to an expressive image, a unique story or any variety of curiosities Collins would be more than happy to obsess over with anyone who finds their way into his shop, located at St. James Plaza on Central Ave. in Toledo. 

Greg Fillmore sifts through comic books. Fillmore is one of JC’s most dedicated patrons, always on the prowl for more Godzilla paraphernalia.

Collins took over the previous comic store on Hill and Reynolds in 1985. The 23-year-old, fresh out of the Navy, mortgaged his inheritance to make a downpayment on the store.

The ultimate personality hire, Collins let his love of comic books run wild, and lends a bit of his own expert fandom to each customer who enters his store.

“I think stores like this thrive on relationships,” said Jacob McPhail, who was a fairly regular customer before he started working for Collins. McPhail has since gone on to get a “big-boy job,” but said they have maintained a strong friendship. 

“He’s real,” McPhail said. “If you ask him, he’s gonna’ give you the truth. He’ll give it to you straight and I think people appreciate that.”

Jacob McPhail, of Southbend, Indiana, stands inside JC’s Comics N’ More: Your Pop Culture Super-Store. McPhail used to work for JC’s nearly a decade ago and maintains a close friendship with JC Collins.

It is common for Collins’ customers to form a long-lasting relationship with him. After all, his super store will celebrate its 40th anniversary in September. 

But recently, Collins has been upfront about the financial difficulties he’s been having at the store as he tries to make ends meet. 

“I guess I am theoretically rich,” quipped Collins, referencing the merchandise in his store. “But my bank account? Not so much.”

Collins explained that his business thrives off of disposable income, and with the cost of necessities rising, people are slowly cutting comics and the paraphernalia he provides out of their budget.

But plenty of people still wander into Collins’ store with lighthearted expectations, which McPhail affectionately calls “one-sie, two-sies,” based on how many times they may come back to the store.

“We’re just kinda’ looking,” new customer Conn O’Halloranon told Collins as he snaked his way through the narrow pathways. But O’Halloran, here on vacation from California, ended up purchasing a few comics for himself and a number of other items for his kids. 

Conn O’Halloran, of Tehachapi, California, shows off his comic book finds. O’Halloran was with his kids inside JC’s Comics N’ More: Your Pop Culture Super-Store.
Conn O’Halloran shows off his comic book finds at JC’s Comics N’ More: Your Pop Culture Super-Store.

Collins has mastered the art of piquing curiosities with his selections and making informed recommendations, but, the bottom line is his comics need readers.

McPhail said that “online I can find any issue I want, but there’s a distinct feeling of going through a bin and finding things, that create an experience for the buyer. People can find things cheaper online, but resourceful people come to JC’s.”

Two years ago, Fillmore, a Godzilla fanatic, found an oddly specific Godzilla piece at JC’s, and he and Collins both remember it clearly. 

“It was a 62’ Godzilla, the first King Kong vs Godzilla, released in Japan in 62’ and in America in 63’. That’s the one I walked in and I had to have it,” Fillmore recalled. That light-up Godzilla cost around $300, but Fillmore prefers not to dwell on the price of his “habit.”

“I peel the price tags off so the wife doesn’t see them,” he laughed. “He’s got anything you could damn near imagine. That’s what keeps me coming here over and over again.

“Did you have me in mind when you bought that Godzilla,” Fillmore asked Collins, who replied that of course he had Fillmore in mind when he bought the rare piece.

Austin Kochanski, of Swanton, looks at action figures at JC’s Comics N’ More: Your Pop Culture Super-Store.
Jaymz Collins, the owner of JC’s Comics, points to framed custom comics made by famous comic book artists specially for JC’s store at JC’s Comics N’ More.

Daily Dose | The Humorists

By
Jerry King
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Cartoon by Jerry King.

Toledo’s probationary firefighters prepared for duty

By
Paula Wethington
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Lt. Jeff Wheeler, right, instructs recruits how to operate an aerial ladder during pump works and hose work training on Oct. 3, at the Owens Center For Emergency Preparedness. (Courtesy Photo/TFRD)

TRFD Academy celebrates its current class with Family Day

This is Part 2 of a limited series about the current Toledo Fire & Rescue Academy class.

Story by Paula Wethington | Photos Courtesy of Toledo Fire & Rescue

WALBRIDGE – Toledo Fire & Rescue Department’s newest class of probationary firefighters have earned their assigned stations after being sworn in during a ceremony on Dec. 6.

Nineteen recruits from Fire Class 298 take the firefighter oath during family day on Dec. 6, at the Owens Center For Emergency Preparedness in Walbridge, Ohio. They will be assigned to line operations as probationary firefighters. (Courtesy Photo/TFRD)

The ceremony took place during the academy’s Family Day program at the Center for Emergency Preparedness Center on Tracy Road. The facility, designed for public safety and first responder training, is near the main campus of Owens Community College.

“I’ve always wanted to be a firefighter. I wanted to give back to my community,” said Aubrey Bruhn, 18, of Waterville, who was among those named to probationary firefighter rank that day.

Scott Bruhn, who described his daughter as “motivated,” explained his daughter did not wait for the 2024-25 fire academy to officially begin, but took her emergency medical technician class ahead of time. The schedule for EMT was tight, given her birthdate, but the accomplishment was earned.

Bruhn’s TRFD assignment is at Station 9. She met her station crew mates just one day before earning her rank.

Fire Academy Class 298

Toledo Fire Class 298 started its training Aug. 16 with 30 recruits. By early December, one was on an injury leave while 29 remained active in the program. 

The class participants ranged in age 18 to 39, with some coming in from former careers, such as with the military. Those who already have EMT or paramedic certifications, like Bruhn, get station assignments after completing the firefighter training courses, while the rest continue with EMT-Basic classes.

A graduation ceremony for the academy class takes place Feb. 28.

Training their crew mates

Running a fire academy is a huge investment for the department, and it happens only as schedules and budgets permit. 

One reason is that veteran personnel from across the city need to step out of their regular 24-hour-on/48-hour-off station assignments into instructor preparation and training hours to coincide with the recruits’ schedule. But that’s how TRFD wants to bring new personnel on board.

Recruit Nathanael Hicks leans back in his harness at the top of the 95’ ladder of an aerial ladder truck on Oct.18 at the Owens Center For Emergency Preparedness. The aerial ladder climb is a requirement for all recruits, intended to boost their confidence. (Courtesy Photo/TFRD)
Recruit Garrett Whitney climbs the 95’ ladder of an aerial ladder truck on Oct. 18 at the Owens Center For Emergency Preparedness. The aerial adder climb is a requirement for all recruits, intended to boost their confidence. (Courtesy Photo/TFRD)

“They put forth effort, and we’ll get them to the finish line,” said Lt. John Rodriguez, who was among the academy instructors.

“I’m very proud to say they are coming to the line with me,” said Capt. Michael Romstadt, who led this year’s academy class. “It’s a very tough academy. We push them; we push them very hard.”

TRFD academy meets for 40 hours a week. Most of the classwork and training takes place at the Owens facility; some instruction takes place at Maumee Fire Division’s burn tower. The lessons include how to put out a structure fire, handling hazardous materials at a scene and how to operate the department’s equipment.

“I knew it was going to be very physical,” Bruhn said about the 16-weeks firefighter training. “But I didn’t expect how physical, and how good they got me in shape.”

Another classmate, recruit Shamonde Sanders, age 26, of Toledo, is a military veteran who had considered police work as his next career step. But then he decided on fire and rescue. 

“This is a perfect opportunity to give back to the community,” Sanders said about his career path. “I think it is underrated how smart firefighters are, what they need to know and be prepared for at all times.”

The recruits are paid for academy training, and “we’re definitely getting our money’s worth,” Romstadt said.

Family Day celebration

Family Day is second only to graduation day itself within the academy. It marks the training achievements so far, and it is also a chance to meet and thank family and friends who supported recruits throughout the process. 

The Dec. 6 ceremony and luncheon took place in the vehicle bay of the Owens training facility. It included speeches from the TRFD chief and other officials, introductions of the instructors and a roll call of the newest firefighters. Rev. Nicole Ritz, one of the TRFD chaplains, also gave a welcome and prayers.

The speeches and remarks included numerous acknowledgements for the family and friends at home.

“It’s the support system at home – you guys – that get this across the finish line,” Romstadt told their family and friends. “We talk a lot about tradition in the fire department. This is not a job: This is about service. This is about teamwork.”

Daniel Brown-Martinez, deputy chief of the training academy, encouraged the academy students to keep their passion for service. “Remember that it is a privilege and an honor to serve,” he said.

Toledo Fire Chief Allison Armstrong speaks during family day for Fire Class 298. (Courtesy Photo/TFRD)

Then TRFD Chief Allison Armstrong gave her keynote speech.

“We know that they rely heavily on family and friends for support,” she said. “We chose a career of service.”

In their future roles, she reminded the audience, firefighters will have long and busy 24 hours before going home.

Lt. Jeff Wheeler, left, instructs recruit Rafael Cordova how to work the instrument panel for a pumper rig during pump works and hose work training in October at the Owens Center For Emergency Preparedness in Walbridge, Ohio. (Courtesy Photo/TFRD)

The firefighters are trained to respond to situations, such as a traffic accident or medical emergency. Under those conditions, the chief said, the firefighters are expected to treat the public with courtesy and professionalism. “People call us because they need help,” she said.

But there are also school visits, community events, parades, vehicle maintenance, training updates and smoke detector demonstrations.

Jadon Thompson, left, who became a probationary firefighter after taking the firefighter oath, shakes hands with recruit Nathanael Hicks during family day on Dec.6. Thompson will be assigned to line operations while Hicks will progress to Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training before he becomes a probationary firefighter. (Courtesy Photo/TFRD)

Armstrong instructed her new personnel that they are to be the first to get up and last to sit down when they arrive at their stations for a shift.

“Expect to be busy all day and prepare for that,” she said.

The 19 students who earned probationary firefighter status wore a full black dress uniform with the TRFD patch and cap. After the speeches, they lined up at attention in front of a Toledo fire truck to raise their right hands and recite the department’s oath of office.

The remaining 10 recruits who will continue on in the academy wore a simpler uniform and a red hat. Those recruits sat among the audience, but stood to join their classmates in the chant: “We will serve our community. We will inspire.”

What’s next?

Toledo’s newest firefighters spend a year rotating around three different stations.

TRFD has 18 stations across the city, and while the crews primarily work within the city limits, the department participates in mutual aid calls with neighboring fire districts as needed.

With upcoming city budgets currently under discussion, it’s not clear when the next academy class will begin. Romstadt said they like to start that series in the summer so that any training that needs to take place outdoors can happen amid ideal weather conditions.

Romstadt and Rodriguez said the schedule and personnel selected for each academy is intended to stay ahead of pending and expected retirements. 

RELATED CONTENT: Part 1 | Crawl. Walk. Run.

Daily Dose | The Humorists

By
Don Lee
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Editorial cartoon by Don Lee for the Toledo Free Press.

Daily Dose | The Humorists

By
Steven J Athanas
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Cartoon by Steven J Athanas for the Toledo Free Press.

BIZ HUB BRIEFS

By
Katie Siebenaller
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Bolt Express was recently honored as RXO's Ground Expedite Carrier of the Year. (Courtesy Photo)

Imagination Station bounces in the New Year Dec. 30

It’s time to ring in 2025 with a bounce! 25,000 bouncy balls will fall from the ceiling of Imagination Station Dec. 30 at 2:25pm to celebrate New Year’s Eve Eve.

There are five New Year’s activities for the whole family to try—alongside other exhibits and attractions—as you wait for the main event. Create noisemakers, decorate foam 2025 glasses, make a straw kazoo, discover shrinking art and join the Fort Fest for a snowball fight.

Tickets to New Year’s Eve Eve will be available at the door beginning at 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. New Year’s Eve Eve is included in all memberships. Admission is first-come, first-served.

La-Z-Boy, Inc. to acquire Toledo locations

Set to take effect in January, La-Z-Boy, Inc. will officially acquire Durocher’s two Toledo La-Z-Boy stores: La-Z-Boy Home Furnishings & Décor at 5178 Monroe St. in Toledo and La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries at 5804 Airport Hwy. in Holland.

As part of the transition, partners and advertisers are told all existing contracts for these La-Z-Boy locations will end on December 31, 2024. Future inquiries and advertisement propositions should be directed to La-Z-Boy’s corporate office. Partners of Durocher’s Sylvania and Monroe, Mich. locations should continue to contact them directly about future advertising.

La-Z-boy (Flickr photo by Mike Mozart)

TARTA honored by Ohio Public Transit Association

The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) was honored last month for its services to the Toledo area and efforts to create a better ride experience for sensory-sensitive passengers, receiving two awards from the Ohio Public Transit Association (OPTA). The TARTA paratransit team was given the Collaborative Excellence Award for becoming the first Ohio transit agency division to be named a Certified Autism Center, part of a larger effort with Destination Toledo to make the city a Certified Autism Destination. Information Operator Lynette Stanley was presented with the Milestone Award, recognizing her 28+ years of customer dedication, making her the third Team TARTA member to receive the award in as many years.

Assisted Living Locators now serving Toledo

Mohammed Al-Fadhel. (Courtesy Photo)

With a new location in Toledo, nationwide senior placement and referral service Assisted Living Locators will provide families with no-cost aid in the search for senior care options — be it independent living, assisted living, memory care, or in-home care. Under the leadership of Mohammed Al-Fadhel, a University of Toledo alum, Assisted Living Locators helps families sift through the overwhelming amount of available senior care options.

Services include personalized assessments of senior living facilities, an online care planning tool, guided tours and placement support, financial guidance and resources, emergency placement assistance, and ongoing support throughout the entire placement process.

For more information, call Mohammed Al-Fadhel at 213-550-6272 or visit their website.

Bringing Kava Culture to Toledo

Opening soon, Kava Culture Kava Bar is a non-alcoholic bar and lounge, located at 4701 Talmadge Rd.. With a concept centered on community and the earth, Kava Culture encourages people to socialize and build connections, providing the environment to do so while serving up traditional kava, botanical teas, non-alcoholic cocktails, coffee, and vegan treats.

For updates, follow Kava Culture Toledo on Facebook and Instagram or email toledo@kavaculturefranchise.com.

Bolt Express named Ground Carrier of the Year

Transportation brokering service RXO has recognized Bolt Express, provider of Time-Critical Transportation Solutions®, as Ground Expedite Carrier of the Year. The Toledo-headquartered Bolt Express credits this achievement to their continued investment in technology, introducing new advancements for their customers and drivers, dedication to employees, and commitment to quality. Integration of Bolt Express’ new Bid App™ module, a high priority for their technology team this year, has aided in creating faster response times and has produced benefits for customers, drivers, and the company alike.

Daily Dose | The Humorists

By
Don Lee
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0

Editorial cartoon by Don Lee for the Toledo Free Press.

Toledo battles lead exposure

By
Erin Holden
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Dr. Marilynne Wood and Martha Ohashi, RN, display educational tools they use at Escuela Smart School in Toledo to educate parents about lead exposure. (TFP Photo/Erin Holden)

UToledo helps with lead screenings, education

TOLEDO – In October 2020, Toledo City Council made a commitment to eradicate harmful lead exposure to all tenants, especially children, by passing an ordinance requiring all rental properties of 1-4 units and daycare facilities constructed prior to 1978 to be lead-safe certified.

The effects of elevated blood levels in children, particularly those six years old and younger, are well documented. It often results in behavioral issues, like hyperactivity and angry outbursts, and it also prevents children from progressing in their studies at the same rate as their peers.

While the lead-safe ordinance (TMC 1760) is an important first step in preventing children from lead exposure, putting it into action has proven to be a long road. The ordinance has experienced legal disputes: In 2022, a suit was filed against the city by landlord Charmarlyn Strong, resulting in an injunction. A judge did rule in favor of the ordinance last year, but the lawsuit is being appealed. Until the injunction is lifted, enforcement of the ordinance is on hold.

The ordinance created deadlines for rental properties and daycare facilities to have received their certifications, and while many have, the hold up in court has made it impossible to penalize those who haven’t complied. If the injunction is lifted, fines and penalties — even a first-degree misdemeanor —  could be applied to those who haven’t gone through the certification process.

Monica Smith, lead coordinator for the City of Toledo, says that the compliance dates (many of which have long since past), are prioritized in order of lead risk.

“According to the CDC Center for Disease Control, every zip code in the city is considered high risk for land poisoning,” Smith said. “However, we know that some are higher than others. So, when the decision was made to create that timeline in regards to the compliance dates, that was based off the number of children who had elevated lead levels at that time. We prioritized the areas where the rates were higher.” 

Steps for rental owners

The Lead Safe Toledo website makes it easy for Toledo renters and daycare facilities to become certified, but Smith has some tips to emphasize.

  1. Ensure your property has been registered with the Lucas County auditor’s office. It needs to be registered on the rental registry.
  2. Visit toledoleadsafe.com to learn how to clean the property prior to inspection.
  3. Identify the clearance technician or the risk assessor you’re going to hire to do your clearance examination on your property. Those are also listed on the Toledo Lead Safe website.
  4. Once you have hired one of these independent contractors to perform a clearance exam and received their report, go to the Toledo Lead Safe website to apply for your certificate ($25 fee).

All of these steps have links and resources on the website, including what your compliance date is for your property’s zip code.

Toledo – we have a problem

Teachers, parents and concerned community members have to remain diligent in advocating for kids facing health risks that could impact their lives well into adulthood.

Dr. Marilynne Wood, a retired professor of nursing at the University of Toledo, began screening children for lead poisoning over a decade ago and has since tested well over 1,000 children for exposure. Along with screenings and home visits, Wood leads educational initiatives at health fairs, churches and parent-teacher organizations, with the hope of raising awareness and making real change for these children. 

Through these screenings she’s conducted with UT students from the College of Medicine and College of Nursing, Wood found that “we have a real issue in Toledo. Some of our areas, especially in the North End in Leverette, and some of our elementaries around there, when the children were screened, 70 percent of the children at Leverette were elevated. Ninety percent of our housing there was built before 1978, many of those homes even before 1950.” 

1978 is when lead-based paint became illegal and, since then, there has been a long, slow movement toward dealing with the consequences it continues to leave in its hazardous wake. Central Toledo is particularly affected, and Wood has found a pervasive presence of lead in certain zip codes. She has served on the executive board of the Lead Poisoning Prevention Coalition for many years as well.

Martha Ohashi points out nutritious foods that can lessen the effects of lead exposure. (TFP Photo/Erin Holden)

“I don’t see a trend of decrease over the city,” she points out. “Some of the zip codes are so predictable: 43605, 43607, 43608, 43609. Our Old South End. I’d like to target the schools in these areas because I know we need to do so many interventions there.”

Identifying lead poisoning and what you can do 

The problem with identifying lead poisoning in children is that the symptoms are often not apparent until the child has been exposed for some time. 

“A lot of parents don’t even know that this could be an issue and why their child isn’t doing very well in school,” says Wood, adding that it often becomes more obvious in the third grade. Falling behind even this early on can prevent a child from reaching their potential for years to come, and there is even evidence that lead poisoning correlates with rates of suspension in high school, Wood explains.

Once your child has been tested for lead poisoning, there are steps you can take to limit their exposure:

  • Diminish the effects by making sure your child stays full (more lead is absorbed into the bloodstream on an empty stomach)
  • Put them on a multivitamin and nutritious diet
  • Pregnant moms-to-be should be mindful of their exposure to lead to maintain healthy fetal development
  • Environmentally, you should have an assessor come to your home to see where the problem lies so that it can be addressed. Toledo Lucas County Health Department has resources to help you with finding an assessor and testing your child for lead. 
  • There might be peeling paint in the interior and/or exterior of the home, and lead could be present in the soil, contaminating it and any food you try to grow there. If this is the case, you should opt for elevated vegetable gardens to avoid these contaminants.
  • The City of Toledo’s Department of Neighborhoods can also point residents, daycare owners, and landlords in the direction of funding through grants. All changes to the property may very well be covered for you as the homeowner, or for your landlord if you are renting.
Dr. Wood points out many culprits that could contain lead, like jewelry and old toys. (TFP Photo/Erin Holden)

In the meantime…

Even though enforcement of the lead ordinance is on hold, many owners of rental properties have taken the initiative to register their properties, go through any necessary lead abatement, and receive their certifications as lead safe properties. 

For families who are living in a home with lead, there are still measures they can take to keep themselves as safe as possible from lead exposure.

Make sure your home and the daycare you send your child to are safe. If you work in an industry where you are exposed to lead — welding, for instance — avoid letting your child near you until you’ve changed your clothes. It can be difficult to remember these precautions, but the consequences of complacency are dire.

“If there’s a little one — a toddler, a child under six — in the home, those are the ones we’re most worried about because their brains are developing, and that’s the time for the most damage,” Dr. Wood said.

“I think on their list of things that are important [to many parents], it’s food and shelter and not worrying about what their [child’s] lead level is. And I think it’s such an important thing because it’s something we can do something about through education. These kids are completely dependent on where they live, and we need to help them.”

To seek testing for lead poisoning or to have your home inspected for lead, contact the Toledo Lucas County Health Department at 419-213-4100.

The miracle of medicine & friendship

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CherylHardyDillin
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Cheryl Hardy-Dillin and her best friend Cathie live their bestie life. Hardy-Dilliin will now play a life-saving role as a live liver donor for her best friend. (Courtesy Photo)

The moral of this story: ‘Get your cancer screenings.’

By Cheryl Hardy-Dillin

I believe in the magic of Christmas – maybe even a miracle.

Let me tell you a story of about my bestie, Cathie … and we have quite the life story to tell. Epic, actually.

Last year, Cathie was diagnosed with Stage IV metastatic cancer. With strength and grace, she and her family have fought through multiple rounds of tortuous chemotherapy and radiation, and battled with the emotional and physical toll that this wicked disease takes. 

Cheryl Hardy-Dillin. (Courtesy Photo)

But Cat was a strong advocate for herself in the toughest and most Cathie-way ever. She never allowed the doctors to be good enough; it was always a challenge to them – what else can be done? 

Because of her persistence, mental toughness and demanding the best for her own health, Cathie was referred to a revolutionary program at the Cleveland Clinic that allows patients with her EXACT cancer circumstances to get a liver transplant.  This procedure is expected to cure her of cancer. 

In January, Cathie is set for final testing and scheduling of her liver transplant – a procedure in which a donor match gives her a lobe of their liver. The liver is regenerative, so the lobe will grow into a full and healthy liver. 

I am Cathie’s live liver donor match.

The tale of how we met

I have been friends with Cathie for more than half of my life; it’s hard to remember life without Catherine, Cathie, Cat, Chickie …. Catherine and I met at a Toledo Home Remodelers Association meeting almost 30 years ago.  I had just started my agency and was trying to build relationships and get business. On this night, the THRA had Miss Ohio in attendance and the room was packed. However, other than Miss Ohio and me, there were maybe one or two women.  

After the painful meeting and listening to Miss Ohio sing, I grabbed a bar seat at the usual after-meeting watering hole in hopes of finally doing some real networking. On the other end of the  bar was a confident and bodacious young woman who was also recalling the pretty unsatisfying meeting. We made eye contact and did that woman thing, where you say 1,000 words with your eyes, and even though you don’t know each other … you understand. And that was it: We were best friends.

Cat is the one who gave me a style look because she didn’t think my overalls were as cute as I did. So, if you like my style, thank Cathie. It’s her fault I wear anything other than Garanimals.

Cat is the one who fixed me fresh strawberry daiquiris with a powdered sugar rim because I ‘didn’t really drink much and didn’t like beer, wine or booze.’ I am now a wine, gin and tequila girl – all compliments of Cathie’s influence.

I have only one superpower in life and that is my ability to believe in other people and convince them, through my belief, to believe in themselves. I learned that from Cathie, too. It’s what she’s done for me over and over and over again.

I remember a young Cathie and her love Wayne bouncing over a hill and proudly announcing their engagement, which led to marriage, and what a wedding it was. I was the maid of honor and made sure my toast would be remembered.

I frequently tell the story of Cathie’s 80/25 percent rule, a rule that made absolutely no sense until she proclaimed, martini in hand, that any man not giving more than 100 percent wasn’t worth even a look from me.

Then there was the time she strode into my office with the air and confidence of a famous actress, threw a piece of paper on my desk and announced, “You’re going to win this national marketing competition for us, and we’re going to have THE BEST time.”  I did, and off we went to Italy on an all-expenses paid trip.  

And we did have THE BEST time. We danced on the Spanish steps; drank from the Trevi Fountain (Limoncello induced, of course); got cool Italian sunglasses; visited the Colosseum and the Statue of David; took a gondola ride; drank a Bellini right where Hemingway sat; and got the giggles so bad in Venice that our neighbor pounded on the wall for us to be quiet (didn’t work). 

I remember when she told me she was pregnant for the first time … and the second. When she and Wayne bought their first house and then built their dream house. I also cherish that they helped me buy my first home.

But the story I remember most was just a couple months ago. 

Cathie and Cheryl Hardy-Dillin. (Courtesy Photo)

The day everything changed

I was pulling into a parking lot, running late, when Cat called me. I answered, “Hey, I’m walking into the FBI. Can I call you later?” Cat paused but chuckled, “Of course you are. Talk to you later.”

The evening was amazing. I had great conversations with the special agent in charge (SAC) and the assistant special agent in charge. The SAC coined me – a real wow moment that I tried to act cool about, but I really wanted to jump up on the table and show everyone my cool Special Agent in Charge coin.

On my way home, I hit cruise control and happily dialed up Chickie. I loved Chickie talks!

“What’s up, Cat?!” I smiled.

In true Cat fashion , she said, “Tell me all about your FBI night, Chicky.” (She’s Chickie and I’m Chicky. Aunt Chicky to everyone in her family, actually.)

I proudly told her about my SAC coin and how much it meant to me, thankful that my bestie was the first to hear my special news.

She then offered mildly, “Remember how you jumped out of an airplane with me when I turned 30?”

Yeeeeeeesssssss.  In my head I had absolutely no idea where this was going.

“Remember how you ran a half marathon with me when I turned 40?”

Um, yesssssss. She only gave me like two weeks to prepare.  It rained and was miserable. What torture was she preparing me for?

“Well, I picked something a little harder for my 50th.”

“You did!?” (We cannot print what was going through my mind.)

“Yep, this year I’m going to fight cancer.”

That was not it. That was NOT what was going through my mind. That was NOT what I wanted to hear. I wanted to hang up, call back and find out I was punked or that this voice that sounded like my best friend was a deep fake. Please, anything but what I had just heard.

People tell me all the time something I already know, that my relationship with Cathie is special; the once-in-a-lifetime kind of friend that most people only wish to have. She’s my person. My ride or die. My rock. My home base.  

And with one sentence, I felt the earthquake of that special relationship rock my world. I still feel the aftershocks today.

I share this story to encourage you to make the appointments for your cancer screenings. Get your mammograms. Schedule those colonoscopies. Why? Because the worst part of this story is that if Cat had had a colonoscopy based on her family history and age, they very likely would have caught it in a preventable or treatable stage.  

Today, she is fighting stage IV colon cancer that has metastasized to her liver, and next month we hope to save her with a liver .

The moral of this story is to get your screenings. Do it for your wife or your husband. Do it for your sons and daughters. Do it for your mom and dad. Do it for your best friend who will cry the most painful tears possible if you don’t.

The ultimate gift of friendship and love

And these are just some of the reason why being the donor is so special. 

If this isn’t the exclamation mark on an already exceptional friendship, I don’t know what is. It has been such an honor to have a friend like Cat – and for our entire friendship, I’ve counted my lucky stars to have her in my life, always my North Star.

Now we get to do something absolutely remarkable together – because our friendship wasn’t big enough already – Let’s go cure cancer Cat – because we can, because that’s the power of us!

BELIEVE in a Christmas miracle

Believe in miracles. Believe in hope. Believe in magic. Life is so much brighter when you believe what could be…

‘Tis the season. This year makes it so clear that the magic of Christmas isn’t wrapped beneath a tree, but wrapped up in our hearts, between the friends we consider family and the family we consider friends. 

Enjoy the spirit of Christmas – it is strong in this house, and I wish you all the happiness your heart can hold and all the love and hugs your family and friends will tolerate!

Pray for a miracle for Cat, because what’s happening next is nothing short of absolutely incredible – magic in its purest form – a Christmas miracle. 

The Toledo Free Press will keep you updated on this heartwarming and hopeful story of Cheryl and Cathie.
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