28.3 F
Toledo
Saturday, February 8, 2025

Subscribe

Story Tip Line

Home Blog

How to vote in 2024

By
Paula Wethington
-
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.

The Humorists

By
Jerry King
-
0
A robot works tech support hotline: "Why do you want to speak to a human? I'm smart, patient and not rude."

Cartoon by Jerry King.

Patrons pay tribute to closed TMA Cloister Gallery

By
Laurie Bertke
-
0
Patrons visit The Cloister on the last day of its original existence. It is now closed for renovation and will reopen in 2027. (TFP Photo/Lori King)

TOLEDO – Upon hearing the news that the beloved Cloister Gallery would be going off view for two years, residents flocked to the Toledo Museum of Art in droves last weekend to experience the iconic space before it closed.

TMA made the surprise announcement the morning of Jan. 30 in a social media post on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. The announcement stated Feb. 2 would be the last day to visit the gallery until it reopens in 2027. The Facebook post alone received more than 300 comments, ranging in tone from excitement to concern to outrage.

The Traynum family, left, is among thousands of TMA patrons who stopped by the TMA to see The Cloister before it shut down the next day. (TFP Photo/Lori King)
Retired history teacher and Akron, Penn. resident Joel Apol admires the art. He was traveling through Toledo and made a pit stop to the TMA. “This is quite impressive. I taught medieval history, something not taught anymore,” he lamented. (TFP Photo/Lori King)

While some shared memories of concerts, wedding proposals and bygone hours spent sketching, reflecting and meditating in the space, others expressed worries about the museum’s commitment to preserving the visitor favorite.

In the final few days, residents of all ages turned out to wander in quiet reverence among the medieval columns. Some examined and photographed the intricate carvings, while others sat in quiet reflection on the worn limestone and marble ledges of the arcades.

JoAnna Studer, a frequent museum visitor who came to the mourn the space with her son, William Zeigler, called the gallery a special spot that shows how architecture evolved over the centuries.

“It was on the to-do list as soon as we read that it was going to be closed for two years,” said Studer, who visited Sunday afternoon. “That’s a long time to go without it.”

Zeigler, 10, said he admires all the beautiful artwork in the gallery, especially the columns, stained glass windows, sculptures, paintings and the roof.

The idea for a gallery designed to resemble the type of open-air courtyard found at the center of a medieval monastery dates to the late 1920s, and The Cloister was a highlight of TMA’s 1933 East and West Wing expansion.

William Ziegler, 10, and his mother JoAnne Studer, of Waterville, discuss the architecture. (TFP Photo/Lori King)

The gallery was a gift of museum co-founder Edward Drummond Libbey. Three of the arcades were assembled from different monasteries in south France: Two from the middle of the twelfth century represent the architecture of the Romanesque era, while one in the Gothic style dates to around the year 1400. Local craftsman constructed a fourth arcade from wood and plaster and covered the Cloister’s surrounding walkways with timber and tile roofs.

The heart of daily life in a Christian monastery or convent, a cloister served as a place for meditation, reading and exercise for the resident monks or nuns. It was also a place of connection, as cloisters typically joined together the principal buildings of a monastic complex.

according to an informational panel in the exhibit.

Adrian Traynum II described The Cloister as “a space of sanctity and community.” A frequent museum visitor since childhood, Traynum squeezed in one last visit to the gallery before he headed to work on Sunday afternoon. “I wanted to be sure I got in here and saw the Cloister before it went down for two years,” he said.

Traynum said the gallery makes visitors feel as though they are taking a step through time.

“It’s like nostalgia for something that we haven’t even fully seen, but as humans I feel like we can resonate with because it feels like it’s just from straight up out of the ancient history,” he said. “They captured a piece of community back when community was way more tight-knit.”

Artist Traynum, right, and his brother Adrian Traynum II visit The Cloister on its last day of visitation. (TFP Photo/Lori King)

Visiting with his mother and siblings, Traynum marveled in reflecting on how many generations have been able to experience the gallery. “Someone in their 90s could have come here where it first opened,” he said.

Kristi Russell said her mother, Glenda Russell, 85, has been coming to the museum since she was a child. The pair visited Sunday afternoon, and expressed concern about the future of the Cloister and the lack of detailed information from the museum about plans for it.

Glenda Russell said the space represents “serenity” to her.

“It’s not just pictures lined up,” added Kristi Russell. “You can walk into a monastery … and meditate and sit and pray.”

Janice Rogacki echoed the sentiments of those describing The Cloister as a sacred space. She and several other visitors recalled the magic of attending concerts held there in past years.

She was visiting with a friend, Laurel Reed, who said she came to get a few photos to help her remember the gallery as she knows it. “There’s a feeling in The Cloister that’s different than any other room in the entire [museum],” she said.

Toledoan Wade Born visits The Cloister on the last day of viewing before it closes for two years. (TFP Photo/Lori King)

Visiting the museum has been a tradition for her family for decades, since they moved to Toledo when she was 7. “Change is unnerving,” said Reed. “Historically, the museum always gets new shows and the rooms change and the colors change. But this, The Cloister, has been a place that has stayed, even though some of the art has changed.”

Toledoan Sophia Soto, 10, takes in the view of The Cloister. (TFP Photo/Lori King)

The biggest two questions on the lips of many visitors included where is it being moved and why. Museum security guards and other employees asked about plans had limited details to share over the weekend.

Penny Gentieu, a Toledo native and photographer who maintains a website about TMA and the region’s historic artists at artistsoftoledo.com, expressed concerns about the risks of moving the fragile columns, capitals and arches of The Cloister in a blog post on her site.

“Changes in temperature, humidity, and lighting at a new location could accelerate the degradation of the stone,” wrote Gentieu. “Moving might expose the artifacts to vibrations, pollutants, or handling-related damage. They will need to maintain climate-controlled storage and moving conditions.”

Doreen Cutway, senior public relations manager for the museum, said moving The Cloister is one part of a major two-year reinstallation project announced in November. Once completed, the entire TMA collection will be presented chronologically from antiquity to present day.

“We know what a gem this particular exhibition is and how important this is to the community, so we are going to take really good care of it and give it a better home than it has now,” said Cutway.

There may be other gallery closures in phases, Cutway said, but the museum’s goal is to keep things on view as much as possible during the process.

In a follow-up email to the Toledo Free Press, a museum spokesperson acknowledged The Cloister was also closed for a period of time in 2021 to be “refreshed.” The email noted the latest closure ties into the broader reinstallation outlined in the museum’s 2021-2026 strategic plan.

The spokesperson wrote that the Cloister is to be dissembled, labeled, stored and reassembled next to Classic Court in the footprint of galleries 3, 4, 5 and 6 by 2027.

Patrons take in the art in The Cloister on its final day of viewing before it’s closed for two years. (TFP Photo/Lori King)
Kristi Russell, left, and Glenda Russell capture memories of the artwork inside the Cloister Gallery. (TFP Photo/Laurie Bertke)

TMA’s conservation team is working closely with its architectural partners, Michael Maltzan Architecture and EverGreene Architectural Arts, to ensure the move is done safely. EverGreene is a leading architectural conservation firm with extensive experience working with cloisters, and TMA’s 2021 project in The Cloister Gallery also helped the conservation team develop considerable expertise on the arcades.

The museum did not provide details about the cost for moving The Cloister. The spokesperson wrote that TMA is privately funded and the project is one small part of the larger reinstallation that is being funded through individual and corporate philanthropy.

TMA recently launched a new website offering an overview of the project, which marks the museum’s first comprehensive gallery reinstallation in more than 40 years.

Ode to The Cloister Gallery<br>(Photos by Laurie Bertke)

Ode to The Cloister Gallery
(Photos by Laurie Bertke)

The Humorists

By
Don Lee
-
0
TARTA bus with Rosa Parks mural on front side of bus and a man wearing red hat refusing to ride the "woke" bus and a black rider saying, "Aw Darn..."

Editorial cartoon by Don Lee for the Toledo Free Press.

Ohio Loves Transit Week offers free rides, honors Rosa Parks

By
Max Alfonso
-
0
A TARTA bus is wrapped in the likeness of Rosa Parks, created by artist Merce’ Culp, who also created a mural displayed at the TARTA headquarters on N Huron Rd. in downtown Toledo. (Courtesy Photo)

TOLEDO- Ohio Loves Transit Week kicks off on Feb. 9-15, and the Toledo Area Regional Authority (TARTA) will join 62 other public transportation agencies to show its appreciation and gratitude to the public.  

TARTA CEO Laura Koprowski held a press conference on Tuesday to talk about the events coming up and the impact she wants the transit system to have. 

“No matter someone’s race or their income, everybody deserves a dignified and safe ride on the bus to get to where they need to go,” Koprowski said. “We continue to play a critical role in advancing racial and social equity and expanding opportunities for all.” 

Laura Koprowski. (Courtesy Photo)

All TARTA fixed-route, paratransit and TARTA Flex services will be free of charge on Tuesday, Feb. 11, as part of Ohio Loves Transit Week, which celebrates the contributions of the public transit system. 

“Sort of a way to thank people who depend on the service every day and to be able to celebrate people who work in transit,” noted Andy Cole, TARTA’s communication and marketing manager, when talking about the purpose of the event. 

On Feb. 8, Ohio State representatives Elgin Rodgers, Erika White and Josh Williams, Ohio Sen. Paula Hicks Hudson and representatives from the Toledo Chapter of the NAACP will read a story to families at 11:30 a.m. to honor the life and contributions of Rosa Parks. The readings will be at the Mott, Holland, King Road and Heatherdowns branch libraries.

This is the second year they have done a read-along for the public. I am Rosa Parks, a book written by Rosa Parks and illustrated by Toledo native Will Clay, will be one of the books read. 

Mercé Culp, a Toledo native, created a Rosa Parks mural that is displayed at the TARTA headquarters on N Huron Rd. in downtown Toledo. 

A TARTA bus is wrapped in the likeness of Rosa Parks, created by artist Merce’ Culp, who also created a mural displayed at the TARTA headquarters on N Huron Rd. in downtown Toledo. (Courtesy Photo)

“This is by far one of my favorite projects working on this mural,” Culp said. The Rosa Parks mural is also displayed on the side of a TARTA bus.  

Having this event during Black History Month and near Rosa Parks Day is important to TARTA.

“Something we can do to celebrate Rosa Parks’ contribution not only to transit, but to equity in general,” Cole said.

A depicting of a mural of Rosa Parks on the side of a TARTA bus.
A TARTA bus drives past a mural of Martin Luther King, Jr. in downtown Toledo. (Courtesy Photo)

Borderline Grill gets job done right

By
Ian Hubbard
-
0
Ribeye sandwich with red skinned mashes potatoes. (TFP Photo/Victoria Hubbard)

SYLVANIA – ‘Of course we would go on the busiest night since they opened.’ That was the first thought that jetted across my mind when my wife and I walked into Borderline Grill on a recent Saturday night.

It was approximately 7:20 p.m., and the restaurant was near standing-room only. Families out for the night; couples; four-tops; six-tops; all trying the new restaurant on the block.

Yes, it was busy, and there was a little wait for our order, but the food and drinks moved at a steady pace. Borderline has only been open since Jan. 17, and as a scar-tissued foot soldier of customer service, it wasn’t a stretch to say staff stayed busy between pick-ups. They were active during any downtime: clearing tables, wiping the windows, rolling silverware in fresh napkins. 

“Tonight is the busiest night we’ve had,” said bar manager Chris Ryan as he handed over my Makers and ginger ale and a beautiful Prosecco for my wife, Victoria. “Service has been on-point. People are happy, and the food’s coming out fast. This is exactly what we’ve wanted.”

I could hear the bustle from the kitchen as the line tackled their orders. The sizzling oil, plates slapping the counters, the chatter down the line … it all funneled out organically every time someone walked through the double doors. There wasn’t the frantic shuffling, flare ups, confusion or spastic yelling that one might be used to from watching Hell’s Kitchen or The Bear.

Main menu at the Borderline Grill. (TFP Photo/Ian Hubbard)

On the contrary, under the direction of head chef Kris Parker, the kitchen line ran smoothly for an operation that is building its identity. I was lucky to have a couple minutes with him during service. 

“I haven’t come up for air in the last four hours,” he said, exasperated but gleeful. “We actually ran out of our feature item, the Smash Burger, because we prepped for how the last two Saturdays went. But they just kept coming in tonight. It’s been a great surprise.”

This is great news for him, his wife and marketing manager Nikki Falk, who is also the co-owner/operator of the business. Having served their time at Carrabas, Applebees, Longhorn and Barr’s Public House in Maumee, this is their opportunity to shine, given the obstacles.

“We wanted to open last year,” said Falk, via email. “But we had hold-ups. The contractors for the fire suppression, for example; they never sent their plans over [to the Department of Inspection]. This was around Thanksgiving. After we waited long enough, it took an affirmative email and they got their butts into gear.”

That little wait for our order I mentioned in the beginning took 23 minutes between the appetizers arriving to us and digging into the entrees. To save you the ramblings of a pompous Michelin critic, I’ll try to keep it within reason. 

The first appetizer was the fried burrata – a cool mozzarella ball underneath hot, fried and crispy breading sitting atop scratch-made vodka sauce and topped with shaved parmesan. 

Fried Burrata, Bell’s Two-Headed Ale and a cocktail. (TFP Photo/Ian Hubbard)
Goat cheese dip with pita bread and cucumbers. (TFP Photo/Ian Hubbard)

“Next time, I’m getting two,” I said aloud, and my wife responded by nodding because she had a mouthful of food.  

The goat cheese dip followed – whipped goat cheese with cucumber and crostini slices. It was a hit; delicate and blended well, with just enough seasoning to bring it home.

“I wanna bathe in this,” said my wife. I concurred, and still do. It really is that good.

For the entrees, we ordered the Croque Monsieur (French ham and cheese sandwich) and ribeye sandwich. There wasn’t much conversation or note-taking during this part of dinner.

When the food does the talking and you shut up and listen … that’s how you know you came to the right place. Between the ham, be’chamel (French creamy white sauce) and gruyere (cheese), and my face full of prime ribeye, caramelized onions and provolone (both on toasted buns), all we could do was stare at each other and have that silent conversation of nodding in unison. I would recommend the grilled broccoli for choice of side.  

Croque Monsieur with tallow fried french fries. (TFP Photo/Ian Hubbard)

After looking at the ceiling and rubbing our bellies, we decided on the molten lava cake for dessert. Out of necessity, of course. 

Chocolate cake … melting ice cream … hot fudge dressing … I probably sound like Homer Simpson by now. 

Borderline Grill is in a prime position, being a stone’s throw from Centennial Terrace. And if they’re packed in the dead of winter, then spring and summer will only deliver upwards return.

This is scratch cooking as good as you can get it. The question is if you want the job done or the job done right.  

Borderline Grill $ is located at 5680 Mayberry Square E in Sylvania.

The Humorists

By
Steven J Athanas
-
0

Bad homophone cartoon by Steven J Athanas for the Toledo Free Press.

Heat pumps cut carbon emissions, saves money, helps climate

By
Steve Roberts
-
0
Brian Vanderhorst, owner of Shrek Heating & Air Conditioning, started working in the business then started his own company. (TFP Photo/Steve Roberts)

One of the weapons that can be used to fight the ongoing challenge of climate change is the electric heat pump. Electric heat pumps move heat from one location to another, instead of producing it.

In colder months, they pull heat from outdoor air and bring it inside. In hot weather, they send the heat outside. Since heat pumps move heat rather than make it, they use less energy than traditional heating systems and don’t make the pollution that comes from burning fossil fuels.

A heat pump connected to a home. (TFP Photo/Steve Roberts)

Heat Pumps are popular. More units were sold than gas furnaces in 2024, carrying on a trend that started in 2022. In 2023, Americans bought 21 percent more heat pumps than gas furnaces (see figure). Keep in mind that some homes have more than one heat pump.

In September 2023, the U.S. Climate Alliance, a coalition of 25 states, publicized plans to install 20 million heat pumps by 2030. To hit this goal, present install rates need to increase 300 percent. Ohio is not a member of this alliance.

(Figure 1)

There are several good reasons for the growing popularity of heat pumps.

One strength is their stingy use of electricity. Modern heat pumps can function at 300 to 400 percent efficiency or more. In other words, they produce three to four times more heat energy than the electricity they use. The best space heaters achieve only 95 percent efficiency. Using less electricity saves money. 

Heat pumps offer financial savings. A National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) study found that out of the 49 million households using electricity, fuel oil or propane for heating, and using air conditioning, 92 to 100 percent could lower their energy bills (see Fig. 2). 

Yearly savings are usually between $300 and $650, depending on the heat pump’s efficiency. Homes that use natural gas for heating would experience smaller, if any, savings. 64 percent of Toledo homes are heated by gas, while 26 percent are heated with electric power.

Heating and cooling accounts for about 60 percent of household emissions. Heat pumps can cut heating-related fossil fuel use by 40 percent or more. Over 15 years, heat pumps, specifically in Ohio, will lower fossil fuel emissions into the atmosphere by as much as 36 percent compared to gas furnaces. This is important since household emissions contribute to climate change.

(Figure 2)

Heat pumps are healthier than gas-burning furnaces since gas heating systems are a major source of indoor air pollution, according to the EPA. When gas appliances malfunction, they can produce carbon monoxide (CO), which interferes with the blood’s ability to carry oxygen and can worsen heart conditions.

Natural gas used in homes often includes volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), such as benzene. VOCs can cause cancer and may form harmful pollutants, like particulate matter and ozone, when leaked. This particulate matter (PM) from gas heat can harm health. PM can irritate the eyes, nose, throat and lungs, increase the risk of heart attacks, and increase hospital visits for heart-related conditions.

To learn more about heat pumps, I talked to Brian Vanderhorst, the founder and owner of Shrek Heating & Air Conditioning, founded in 2017. Vanderhorst has been in the business for 20 years. He states that he has spent significant time “learning about all facets of the industry, one of those being the operation and installation of heat pump equipment.” 

One of the characteristics of heat pumps is that they become less efficient in cold weather. But, according to Vanderhorst, “the capacity to deal with the cold has advanced considerably with inverter-driven compressors and temperature sensors inside the units. The technology advancements have allowed the use of heat pumps in much colder climates.”

Vanderhorst emphasized that proper installation is essential for optimal operation in cold temperatures.

“That’s where it becomes important that you, and whoever you’re hiring as a contractor, understands the limitations and understands the specifications from the manufacturer,” Vanderhorst said. “And understand the goal you’re trying to accomplish as a homeowner, whether that’s being green or reducing energy consumption or whatever.”

Vanderhorst added that “in very cold climates, there is a diminished capacity for the output of heat. And so, generally speaking, in very cold climates, there is an electric backup which is commonly called a heat strip installed in an air handler, or even using fossil fuel backup.”

When the indoor temperature gets close to the desired point, the system automatically reduces energy use. It adjusts to keep an ideal heat balance. This helps avoid temperature swings and keeps the indoor environment stable and comfortable.

Choosing the right model is important for reliable operation in freezing conditions. There are models designed to work well in colder climates.

A heat pump installed inside a home. (TFP Photo)

Vanderhorst also mentioned that the heat pump could run differently than traditional heating and cooling systems.

For one thing, the run times can be longer.  “It’s hard for consumers not to associate longer run times with higher bills. Sometimes that longer run time equals a smaller bill because it’s doing its continuous work to keep the space at an even temperature,” he explained.

When asked if there were any downsides to heat pumps, Vanderhorst said he did not think there were, other than their complexity. “It is very complex equipment, and it’s important that your service providers understand how to work on them.”

In the past, heat pumps were known to be somewhat noisy. Newer models are quieter.

Ohio residents can use various rebates and tax incentives to help pay for heat pumps. One such opportunity is the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates program. Federal tax credits are also available for ENERGY STAR Most Efficient air-source heat pumps. There are other money-saving opportunities available. Homeowners should partner with contractors who can assist them.

Climate change is happening. One question that gets asked is, “What can I do about it?” Getting a heat pump might be something to consider.

The Humorists

By
Jerry King
-
0

Cartoon by Jerry King.

Nuestras Familias: Taking care of immigrant, migrant, refugee, low-income families

By
Pam Crabtree
-
0
Kelin folds clothes for the new Nuestras Familias program, which provides clothing, furniture, food, childcare and school placement to those in need. Kelin is a volunteer who now gives back after needing the program last year.

Story by Pam Crabtree | Photos by Lori King

TOLEDO – While the holiday season of giving has past, people of all ages continue to struggle and still need help with securing food, clothes, employment and healthcare. Enter Nuestra Gente (NG), a nonprofit 501(c) 3 organization founded in 2008 by Linda Parra.

Parra, originally from Venezuela, aspired to bring a lifelong passion of community service and to help people when she moved to her new home in Lucas County.

She said NG’s goal is to provide services to needy families in Lucas County and to help them become self-sufficient.

Linda Parra, founder of Nuestra Gente, added another program to her a nonprofit: Nuestras Familias, specifically intended for immigrant, migrant, refugee and low-income families.

With Parra meeting that heady goal, NG is offering a new program, Nuestras Familias (Spanish for Our Families), launched specifically for immigrant, migrant, refugee and low-income families.

“Our mission is to address the gaps in services for the Latino community in Lucas County,” said Parra.

Given the overwhelming need for help for families, Parra launched Nuestras Familias to assist not only families in Lucas County, but as far away as Columbus. The program helps by providing clothing, furniture, food, childcare and school placement. It also offers medical screenings, translations, interpretations, transportation, legal services and help seeking jobs.

“We have more items than Goodwill,” Parra quipped. “People donate to us because we give to people for free.”

One grateful benefactor of NG’s Nuestras Familias program is Mirna. Mirna, originally from Mexico, and her husband Otto are parents of two children. After reading about Nuestra Gente in a local publication, she contacted Parra for help.

“I’m so happy,” she said when asked about the program. “We needed help with food and clothing, and Nuestras Familias was there for us.”

NG strives to improve the lives of Toledo’s underserved communities, focusing on not only the Hispanic/Latino community, but all Ohioans who seek help.

Nuestra Gente founder Linda Parra, center, helps Jean, left, and Rocia, asylum seekers from Columbia, who are shopping at the 419 Food Pantry for the first time.
Mirion, from left, Modesta and Kelin fold clothes for the new Nuestras Familias program. Modesta and Kelin are volunteers who now give back after needing the program themselves.

Nuestras Familias is one of the programs and events offered by NG. Others are:

  • Holiday Events
  • The Art Room
  • Health Events
  • Fundraisers
  • Lupus Awareness
  • 419 Food Pantry

Ways to contribute

Monetary donations are tax deductible and always welcome, but there are other ways to contribute, like donating time and energy. One example is the mother-daughter duo, Christina Oyerbides, of Toledo, and her daughter Ester Billups, of Lima, who volunteer their time.

Donated items free for the taking as part of the Nuestras Familias program at the Nuestra Gente Community Center at 1411 Broadway St. in Toledo.

Oyerbides joked that she is “kind of strong, so I go and pick up the donations,” which may consist of furniture, clothing and boxes containing various items. She is also very vocal about spreading the news of the services offered by Nuestra Gente’s Our Families program.

“Whoever hears about it, the doors are open” she said.

Billups enjoys helping families, too. She volunteers on Thanksgiving with packaging and giving supplies out to the community. She also helps organize the items people contribute, such as winter coats, jackets and gloves by size. She said the kids have all their clothes in one room to make it easier for people coming in for assistance.

The Nuestra Gente Community Center is located at 1411 Broadway St. in Toledo.
Email: lindaparra@nuestragentecommunityprojects.org

(See Photo Gallery at bottom of Homepage)

(Courtesy Video)

NEWS SHORTS: Announcements & Happenings

By
Press Release
-
0

(Compiled from press releases and announcements)

419singles launch and kick-off party

419singles was created by Lisa Lento Dunn (the Suburban Socialite on TikTok) for more dating fun) who decided to change the dating game in her community! It’s described as creating classy, fun places and spaces for meetups and events geared towards other singles wanting to date in an intentional way. Open to singles in the greater Toledo area or a 60 mile radius.

When & Where: Kick-off party is on Feb. 8 at Bar Louie.

Rotary Club of Toledo welcomes Black media professionals to discuss storytelling and amplifying black experiences

In honor of Black History Month, the next meeting of the Rotary Club of Toledo will feature a dynamic panel of Black media professionals to discuss the importance of storytelling in amplifying Black experiences, histories, and perspectives.

Lifting Black Voices panelists include:

  • Fletcher Ward, publisher of Sojourner’s Truth
  • Sheila Howard, reporter with The Blade
  • Tisha Mays, The Juice

Through their work in journalism, broadcasting, and digital media, these storytellers shed light on issues that matter, challenge narratives, and create space for authentic representation. You’ll have an opportunity to interview the panelists and members of the Rotary Club of Toledo.

When & Where: Monday, Feb. 10 at noon at the Glass City Center Ballroom.

Rudolph Libbe Group companies to support National Go Red for Women Day

Rudolph Libbe Inc. and GEM Inc. employees will wear red, eat heart healthy food and learn more about heart health from Jan. 31 to Feb. 17 to support the American Heart Association’s National Go Red for Women Day.

Whitney Keeler, development director for Northwest Ohio chapter of the American Heart
Association, will present an educational program, materials on heart health and demonstrate the use of a hands-on AED at all locations. There will be blood pressure checks at both northwest Ohio locations.

Monday, Feb. 17: A Heart Healthy Lunch from Noon to 1 p.m. at GEM Inc.’s Lima, Ohio office, 155 Eastom Circle, Lima.

TARTA celebrates Ohio Loves Transit Week: FREE services on Feb. 11

The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) joins Ohio’s 62 other public transportation agencies in celebrating Ohio Loves Transit Week, which runs Feb. 9-15.

As part of Ohio Loves Transit Week, all TARTA fixed-route, paratransit and TARTA Flex services will be free of charge on Tuesday, Feb. 11, as approved by TARTA’s Board of Trustees.


Drink Love and Bula at Toledo’s Newest Social Hub
Kava Culture, the premium kava bar brand rooted in Pacific Island traditions, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest location in Toledo, opening on Feb. 15 at 4701 Talmadge Rd.

Kava Culture is bringing Toledo a new way of socializing. With a bar-like atmosphere, and no alcohol, Kava Culture is all about connecting with one another and enjoying the traditions of the South Pacific.

Featuring a menu of kava, teas, drinks, and coffee, Kava Culture offers a spot to relax during the day, and connect with friends at night. Open from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., the Toledo location will host activities in the evenings like trivia, karaoke, live music, etc.

The new location is owned by local couple Chris and Rachel Kaminski. A family owned and operated business, the Kaminski’s are excited to bring Kava Culture to Toledo, a place they have grown to love while visiting its Florida locations.


U.S. Rep. Grim assigned as ranking member for House Transportation Committee State Rep. Michele Grim (D-Toledo) announced last month that she has been assigned as ranking member for the House Transportation Committee for the 136th General Assembly.

“I am thrilled to continue in my role as ranking member on the House Transportation Committee from the 135th General Assembly. Communities rely on the essential funds our committee will delegate during the transportation budget,” said Grim. “I look forward to working with all my colleagues over the course of the 136th General Assembly to continue to deliver results for Ohioans.”

The House Transportation Committee will focus on the work of the transportation budget, vehicle regulation and expanding access to all modes of transportation.

TARTA secures electric bus grant from EPA, ODOT

The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the Ohio Department of Transportation have announced grants of more than $12.8 million to Ohio transit agencies to replace aging diesel buses with zero-emission models, including close to $3 million to the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA).

In TARTA’s case, the Diesel Emission Reduction Grant (DERG) will allow $2,876,400, or 80 percent of the cost for replacing three model year 2008 diesel buses with electric vehicles. This is in addition to the 11 other grant-funded full-sized electric buses scheduled to arrive at TARTA later this year.

Changes bring Route 3 services to Lott Industries

TARTA’s winter service changes increased service to Lott Industries for those working there, and shifted the way that service was delivered. TARTA’s crosstown Route 3 – which previously had only traveled to Lott every other trip and on a varied schedule – now runs every 60 minutes, with every trip stopping at both Lott and near Swan Park Apartments on Brookview Dr.

Toledo Opera partners with iHeart Media, Inc. to rebrand concert series

Toledo Opera is rebranding its popular Opera Outdoors series to Opera ‘Round Town. With this new name and expanded vision, Opera ‘Round Town will bring pop-up community concerts to audiences across Northwest Ohio, presented both indoors and outdoors. This initiative is made possible with support from iHeart Media, Inc., the presenting sponsor of Opera ‘Round Town.

Toledo City Council settles lawsuits, approved housing development

From the This Week in Toledo newsletter: On Jan. 14, Toledo City Council settled lawsuits from two residents who were seriously injured by Toledo Police during George Floyd protests for $800,000; settled a lawsuit with former public bench contractor Fuel Outdoor of Toledo for $145,000; and approved the Tremainsville Farms housing development.

Also on Jan. 14, the Lucas County Commissioners voted to join the newly created Ohio Large Urban Counties Alliance. The alliance, which Lucas County Commissioner Pete Gerken chairs, brings together the six largest counties in Ohio to lobby the state government for more support of urban population centers.

Paramount Dental rebrands

Paramount Dental has rebranded to HRI Dental & Vision, effective January 2025. The dental insurance company was founded almost four decades ago as Health Resources, Inc., and later made the transition to the Paramount Dental name. The business stated in a press release that it’s excited to pay homage to its humble beginnings and better capture its ever-evolving product lines with this name change.

Sip, Savor & Stroll patrons can win a gift card prize pack

The Heights Toledo recently announced that patrons of downtown Toledo’s Sip, Savor, & Stroll: A Downtown Martini and Mocktail Experience, running from now until Feb. 23, can visit any of the participating bars and restaurants, take a photo of their featured drink using the hashtag #SipSavorStroll, and tag @downtowntoledo in their post. On Feb. 24, a winner will receive a gift card prize pack. Learn more about the event here.

GRAMMY® Award-winning vocalist Warren Haynes Band

Warren Haynes, the GRAMMY® Award-winning vocalist, songwriter, guitar legend, producer, and Gov’t Mule frontman will be coming to Stranahan Theater with his Warren Haynes Band on their Million Voices Whisper 2025 Tour.

When & Where: Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Stranahan Theater.
Toledo Opera Returns with South Pacific

The Toledo Opera will present Rodgers and Hammerstein’s South Pacific. The Toledo Opera will also host a free Pre-Opera Talk one hour before each show in the Grand Lobby of the Valentine Theatre.

Former Toledo Opera Resident Artist and regional soprano Grace Wipfli will provide historical context and insight and be available to take questions after the talk.

When & Where: Friday, Feb. 14 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 16 at 2 p.m. at the Valentine Theatre.
TPS Strategic Interplay Chess Tournament on February 15

The Toledo Public Schools Strategic Interplay Chess Tournament will be held at the Toledo Museum of Art. Area students from 3rd to 12th grades are eligible to enter. $5 entrance fee at door. Email ldm43528@gmail.com for more details.

When & Where: Saturday, Feb. 15 at the Toledo Museum of Art. Check-in is at 11 a.m. and the tournament starts at noon.
123...41Page 1 of 41
spot_img

The Toledo Free Press is a project of Toledo Integrated Media Education.

Company

Trending

Categories

© Copyright 2024 - Toledo Free Press