How to vote in 2024

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October 3, 2024

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?

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.

10 most Googled health questions

By

Steve Roberts

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May 16, 2025

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5 How much water — Headaches can be caused by many factors, including not drinking enough water. (Stock Photo Credit/Pexel Photo)

A health expert weighs in with answers on the big questions from 2024

Writers often wonder how to pick topics that matter to people. As a columnist, I want to cover health issues that really interest our readers.

There are a few good ways to do this. One way is to see which topics people search for most on Google. I used this question method, came up with 10 of the most Googled health questions, and added the answers.

Is bronchitis contagious?

Bronchitis happens when the bronchial tubes, which move air to and from your lungs, become inflamed. Acute bronchitis is contagious because it is most often caused by viruses that spread easily from person to person. The risk of transmission is highest during the first few days of symptoms and may last for about a week. Chronic bronchitis, which is a long-term condition commonly associated with COPD, is not considered contagious.

Inflamed and normal airway in lung. (CDC illustration.)

How long does the flu last?

The flu usually lasts about 5 to 7 days. Symptoms tend to show up one to four days after exposure to the virus. The worst symptoms, like fever and body aches, are often at their worst in the first two or three days. Some people might need more time to totally recover, with tiredness or a nagging cough sticking around for up to two weeks. Getting a flu shot might make it less severe and go away faster.

What is Lupus?

Lupus is a long-term autoimmune disease where the immune system accidentally attacks healthy cells and tissues. Lupus leads to inflammation and can harm different body parts, such as the joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain. There are several forms of the disease, with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) being the most common and severe.

Symptoms of lupus can differ greatly from person to person and may include the following:

Painful or swollen joints	Extreme tiredness
Fever	Hair thinning or loss
Sensitivity to sunlight	Chest pain
Dry eyes and mouth	Memory loss or confusion
Skin rashes

Is Strep Throat Contagious?

Strep throat spreads quickly from one person to another. The responsible bacteria, group A Streptococcus, can be passed to others by respiratory droplets or direct contact.

Here are some common ways it spreads:

Breathing in droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or sings.
Touching a surface or object with the bacteria on it, then touching your mouth or nose.
Coming into contact with skin sores caused by the infection.
Sharing silverware, cups, or plates with someone who has the bacteria.

The infection becomes contagious during the incubation period, usually two to five days after exposure—even before any symptoms show up.

Without treatment, someone with strep throat can spread the bacteria for two to three weeks. However, starting antibiotics reduces contagiousness significantly, usually within 24 to 48 hours.

How much water should you drink a day?

The quantity of water needed each day can vary from person to person. According to Harvard’s The Nutrition Source, general recommendations for fluid intake are:

Men: About 13 cups (104 ounces) or approximately eight water glasses of water/fluids per day.
Women: About 9 cups (72 ounces) or approximately six water glasses of water/fluids per day.

These amounts include all fluids consumed, with roughly 20 percent coming from food and the rest from drinks.

What causes high blood pressure?

Primary, or essential hypertension, develops over time and usually has no definite cause. The following variables are linked to this condition:

Family History: A parent or sibling with high blood pressure increases your likelihood of developing it.
Age: The risk of high blood pressure increases as you grow older.
Race: High blood pressure is more common and often develops earlier in Black individuals.
Obesity: Excess weight can affect blood vessels, kidney function, and other systems, contributing to higher blood pressure.
Physical Inactivity: A lack of regular exercise can lead to weight gain and higher heart rates, which might raise blood pressure.
Diet: Eating too much salt and not enough potassium can increase blood pressure.
Tobacco Use: Smoking or vaping can cause an immediate spike in blood pressure and damage blood vessel walls.
Alcohol Consumption: Consuming large amounts of alcohol, especially in men, is linked to higher blood pressure.
Chronic Stress: Prolonged stress can temporarily increase blood pressure levels.

Secondary hypertension is caused by underlying conditions including:

Kidney disease.
Thyroid disorders.
Tumors in the adrenal glands.
Obstructive sleep apnea.
Certain medications, such as pain relievers, decongestants, or birth control pills.
Illegal drugs such as cocaine or amphetamines.
Congenital heart defects.

Additional causes may include pregnancy, conditions like diabetes, or environmental factors.

How do I lower cholesterol?

Improve Your Diet

Eat more foods with soluble fiber, like oats, barley, beans, apples, and citrus fruits.
Eat more fatty fish such as salmon to increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids.
Eat unsaturated fats found in olive oil, nuts, and seeds.
Cut back on fatty meats, butter, cream, and hard cheeses.

Exercise Regularly

Get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Losing extra weight can help reduce cholesterol levels.

Quit Smoking

Smoking lowers good cholesterol (HDL), raising heart disease risk.

Limit Alcohol

If you drink, drink moderately.

Consider Fiber Supplements

Supplements like psyllium can offer additional soluble fiber to support better cholesterol levels.

What causes kidney stones?

Kidney stones are clusters of crystals that form when minerals and other substances in the urinary system stick together. While most stones pass naturally through urination, the process of passing kidney stones can be extremely painful.

Urine contains various components, such as minerals, acids, calcium, sodium, oxalate, and uric acid. If these particles are present in high amounts, and there’s not enough liquid in the urine, they can combine to form crystals, eventually developing into kidney stones. This process can take months or even years.

Risk factors for kidney stones

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing kidney stones, including:

Not drinking enough water.
Eating a diet high in meat or protein-rich foods.
Consuming foods high in sodium or sugars like sucrose and fructose.
Taking vitamin C supplements.
A family history of kidney stones.
Urinary tract blockages.
A history of stomach or intestinal surgery, such as gastric bypass.
Using specific medications, including some diuretics, calcium-based antacids, antiseizure drugs and others.

Medical conditions linked to kidney stones are cystic fibrosis, diabetes, gout, high blood pressure, obesity, and osteoporosis.

Why do I have a headache?

Headaches can happen for many reasons. Some of the most common causes include:

Stress and tension: Stress can tighten muscles in your head, neck, and shoulders, producing tension headaches.
Poor posture: Slouching or improper neck and spine positioning can strain muscles and cause pain that goes to your head.
Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can impact blood pressure and cause headaches.

Diet factors: Missing meals, certain foods, additives, or caffeine withdrawal can all act as triggers.
Sleep issues: Too little sleep or sleeping too much (over 8 hours) can bring on headaches.
Environmental triggers: Bright lights, loud sounds, or strong smells, like perfumes, can cause headaches.
Alcohol: Beverages like red wine can trigger headaches.
Underlying health conditions: In some cases, headaches may be a symptom of other issues, such as sinus problems, infections, or high blood pressure.

If your headaches are frequent, severe, or have unusual symptoms, consider seeing a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment options.

Is Pneumonia Contagious?

Pneumonia is a lung infection that occurs when germs enter the airway, travel to the lungs, and settle in the air sacs. If the immune system cannot get rid of these germs quickly, the air sacs can become inflamed and fill with pus and fluid.

In the United States, the most common cause of pneumonia is a type of bacteria known as pneumococcus. While pneumonia itself is not contagious, the bacteria and viruses that lead to it can spread from person to person. Being exposed to the germs does not guarantee you will develop pneumonia. Your immune system’s ability to fight off the infection is key. Even if you don’t get pneumonia after exposure, you can still pass the germs to others (Pacific Lutheran University and Mackenzie Bean, Becker’s Health It).

Don Lee: Chasing Due Process

By

Don Lee

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May 15, 2025

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Toledo-area spring activity guide

By

Katie Siebenaller

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May 15, 2025

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Townes Sackmann, of Toledo, makes eye contact with a hippo at the Toledo Zoo. (TFP Photo/Matthew Sackmann)

Looking for things to do out in the sunshine this season? We’ve got a sampling of a few of our favorites. If you’d like to add one of your hot spots, leave a note in the comments. We’ll update these guides throughout the year!

The Biggest Week in American Birding

Hosted by the Black Swamp Bird Observatory, The Biggest Week in American Birding brings people from all over the world to parks and preserves across Northwest Ohio to observe the migration of over 100 bird species.

Birding experts and novices alike can enjoy a variety of activities during The Biggest Week, including participating in workshops and listening to keynote speakers. For birding locations, activity and event information, visit The Biggest Week in American Birding’s website.

May 9-18, 2025 (dates vary from year to year)

Birding enthusiasts take in the sign of two great horned owlets at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge. (TFP Photo/Laurie Bertke)

Fort Meigs Historic Site

Fort Meigs is Ohio’s War of 1812 battleground and includes a reconstructed walled fort that transports visitors back to 1813. The mission is to educate visitors about this slice of local Ohio history. Check their website for admission fees, hours and special events.

Located at 29100 W. River Rd., Perrysburg • 419-874-4121 • Open April-October.  The museum and visitor center is open year-round.

Mud Hens Baseball

Every spring, the Toledo Mud Hens return to Fifth Third Field in the heart of downtown Toledo, offering more than just baseball. As one of the most beloved minor league teams in the country, the Mud Hens are a seasonal staple for families, friends and fans of all ages.

From fireworks nights and theme games to ballpark snacks and skyline views, catching a Mud Hens game is a summer tradition that brings the community together. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for a fun evening out, there’s something special about cheering on the Hens under the lights in downtown Toledo.

For a complete guide to your Toledo Mud Hens, go to their website.

Fans cheer for the first Mud Hens home run of the season by infielder Jace Jung on Opening Day. (TFP Photo/Lori King)

Sauder Village

Sitting on 235 acres, Sauder Village includes its living history farm and craft village — which preserves over 75 historic structures and houses close to 50,000 artifacts — Sauder Heritage Inn, Sauder Village Campground, Barn Restaurant and Doughbox Bakery. Adults and children alike get to step back in time in this immersive village to experience Ohio from 1803 to the 1920s. Call or visit their website for admission information, hours and events.

Located at 22611 State Route 2, Archbold • 1-800-590-9755 • The Historic Village is open May-October.

Toledo Zoo & Aquarium

The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium has a full calendar of activities and events, in addition to all of their regular exhibits. Check their website for membership and ticket information.

Located at 2 Hippo Way, Toledo • 419-385-5721

The 2025 Orchid Show at the Toledo Zoo. (Photo by Julie Pompa)

Toledo Farmers’ Market

Stroll through the Toledo Farmers’ Market to find fresh produce, breads and sweet treats, homemade gifts and more from local vendors.

525 Market St., Toledo • 419-255-6765 • Hours: Saturdays (November-April) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. from May-October.

Metroparks Toledo

Metroparks Toledo’s locations across Northwest Ohio offer venues for a plethora of activities, including biking, fishing, nature walks, playgrounds and more. Below are a few that we love to visit. For a complete list, go to their website.

Maumee Bay State Park | 1400 State Park Rd, Oregon • 419-836-7758

Maumee State Forest | 3390 County Rd. D, Swanton

Ottawa & Jermain Parks | Ottawa Parkway, Toledo

Harroun Community Park | 5500 Main St., Sylvania (at the rear of St. Joseph Church parking lot)

Navarre Park | 1001 White St., Toledo

Brandon Best, a nursery specialist for Metroparks Toledo, shares about native plant cultivation with Sacred Grounds Toledo tour participants at Blue Creek Metropark and Seed Nursery in Whitehouse. (TFP Photo/Laurie Bertke)

Michele Grim: Medical debt legislation

By

Lori King

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May 14, 2025

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grim and schmidt copy — Ohio State Rep. Michele Grim, center, shares bipartisan support with Jean Schmidt, 2nd from right, on the Ohio Medical Debt Fairness Act. (Courtesy Photo/Ohio House. Democrats)

On this episode of Behind the Byline, host Jaden Jefferson talks with Ohio State Rep. Michele Grim (D-Toledo) about a legislative bill she introduced in May: The Ohio Medical Debt Fairness Act.

This legislation, which currently awaits assignment to a House Committee, will regulate medical debt standards. Grim co-sponsored the bill with Ohio State Rep. Jean Schmidt (R-Loveland), giving the bill bipartisan support.

During this episode, Grim talks about how the bill will:

ban hospitals and creditors from reporting medical debt to a credit bureau
ban wage garnishment due to a medical bill
Cap medical debt interest rate at 3 percent

“Medical debt is the No. 1 reason why people go into bankruptcy and is nobody’s fault,” she stated on the podcast.

Grim first tackled medical debt on the local level when she was an at-large member on Toledo city council. She led that initiative to eliminate medical debt in the Northwest Ohio region, so far abolishing debt for 112K Lucas County residents and eliminating $230M in medical debt.

Grim is serving her second term in the Ohio House, representing House District 43.

New episodes of the Behind the Byline drop every Wednesday on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pod Station⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Behind the Byline is a production of the⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Toledo Free Press.⁠

Steven J Athanas: Illegal

By

Steven J Athanas

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May 14, 2025

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5th year program celebrates inaugural class, welcomes new seniors

By

Allyson Ritchey

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May 14, 2025

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Ritchey-5thYear--08 copy — Erica Fischbach, career discover director at Junior Achievement of Northwest Ohio, left, hugs Mya Whiting after she graduated from the 5th Year program on May 7. (TFP Photo/Allyson Ritchey)

TOLEDO – May 1 marked a major milestone for high school seniors across the country. Known as College Decision Day, it’s the deadline for students to accept admission offers from most colleges and universities, a moment often celebrated as the start of what is next.

But what about the seniors who don’t know what is coming next?

This question has driven Jim Pollock, president of Junior Achievement of Northwest Ohio, for decades. Five years ago, he and his team began developing 5th Year, a post-graduation transition program designed to support students who feel unsure about their future.

Jim Pollock speaks to the inaugural and incoming 5th Year classes. (TFP Photo/Allyson Ritchey)

“I am the kid who, a long time ago, graduated from high school not knowing what I was doing, not having a clear direction and following the herd like everybody else … wandering off to college and mostly failing my way through school, and then ending up with a degree I don’t use,” Pollock admitted.

Pollock’s experience shaped his passion for creating an alternative that gives students time, guidance and real-world exposure before making life-changing decisions.

“There needed to be a better way for students to transition from high school to their next phase of life. Whatever it is, whether it’s the military or college or the workforce, there’s better opportunities,” he said.

The 5th Year program is a structured, nine-month experience that connects recent high school graduates with professional development, career exploration and mentorship from local companies and organizations. The goal is to prepare students to lead independent lives and confidently pursue their personal and professional aspirations.

High school seniors and alumni in the 5th Year program attend the celebration of 5th Year’s inaugural class. (TFP Photo/Allyson Ritchey)

“If you give a kid a chance and you put them in the right place and meet the right people, great things happen,” Pollock said.

Those “great things” were on display May 7, when the Glass City Center hosted the celebration of 5th Year’s inaugural class. Students from across Northwest Ohio crossed the stage, not only as graduates of the program, but as part of a growing network of future-ready young adults.

Pollock called it the “proudest moment of his life,” watching both the outgoing and incoming classes step into their next chapters, and backed by corporate, nonprofit and education partners.

Perrysburg senior Ocean Hayes signs a banner. (TFP Photo/Allyson Ritchey)

Ocean Hayes, a Perrysburg High School senior, is one of 30 students in this year’s incoming 5th Year class. She said she applied because she was not sure what she wanted to do after graduation. The support the program offers felt like exactly what she needed.

“I just didn’t really know what I wanted to do or what my future had in store for me,” Hayes said. “But what the program had to offer really inspired me to join.”

For her, the most exciting part is the chance to gain hands-on experience with internships, something she has never done before. Still, the transition is not without its nerves.

“Making connections and meeting new people, I feel like [that] is definitely nerve-wracking. Not knowing a whole lot of people definitely can make you nervous, but I feel like for the most part, it’ll be all right.”

That same uncertainty, and hope, was exactly what Aubrey Edens, also a Perrysburg High School alumna, felt when she joined 5th Year as part of the program’s inaugural class.

Now, just one year later, her life looks entirely different.

She originally hoped to attend cosmetology school but cost was a barrier. She considered taking a gap year, until she found out about 5th Year.

“I’m like, wow, I can visit so many different companies throughout the year. I can move out of my parent’s house for a year. I can start my journey. I can possibly get a full-time job from this, and then I can go to cosmetology school after,” Edens said.

Aubrey Edens. (TFP Photo/Allyson Ritchey)

That is not quite how things turned out, but in the best possible way. After interning at Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick with the 5th Year program, Edens was offered a full-time position as a legal administrative assistant. Cosmetology is still on the table, but now as a long-term side goal.

“I absolutely love where I am now,” Edens said, “and I absolutely had no idea this was where I was going to be. That’s awesome.”

Beyond the job offer, Edens said the program helped her grow as a person.

“I was so quiet before I joined 5th Year,” Edens said. “The best thing I learned, and the most I’ve changed, is you need to go up to everybody and talk to everybody because you never know who you’re in a room with, and you never know who you might meet and how you can help them and how they can help you.”

Her advice to Hayes and the rest of the new class? Dive in.

“You definitely get out of it what you put into it,” Edens said. “If you do the extra things, if you go up and talk to people, if you go and speak on stage and do all of those different things, you are going to get so much more out of that.”

She added one last note for those watching from the outside: “If you don’t join 5th Year, invest in it, because it’s the best thing happening right now.”

Pollock agrees. In today’s economy, where many students graduate without a clear path and employers struggle to fill roles, 5th Year aims to bridge the gap.

A sign welcomes attendees to the celebration of the inaugural class. (TFP Photo/Allyson Ritchey)

The graduating and incoming classes of 5th Year stand together for the first time on stage at the Glass City Center. (TFP Photo/Allyson Ritchey)

Jerry King: Gourmet Trash

By

Jerry King

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May 13, 2025

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Toledo fire chief soars with Thunderbirds

By

Scott Grau

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May 13, 2025

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2025 Toledo Air Show : MAY 09 — Advance pilot/narrator Maj. Brandon Maxon gives instructions to Toledo Fire and Rescue chief Allison Armstrong as she sits in the cockpit of the F-16 fighter jet before takeoff.

Story and photos by Scott W. Grau

TOLEDO – Surreal. That’s the only word that Toledo Fire and Rescue Department chief Allison Armstrong can think of to describe her unique opportunity to fly in a U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds F-16 Fighting Falcon jet.

“It didn’t feel real until we were in that jet and taking off,” she said.

Once Armstrong and advance pilot/show narrator Maj. Brandon Maxson were airborne, she exclaimed that “it was amazing!”

Allison Armstrong, center, talks with ground crew members.

Armstrong had the honor of flying with the Thunderbirds during their dress rehearsal performance on Friday, May 9, a day before the Toledo Air Show officially was held during the Mother’s Day weekend.

The Thunderbirds, officially the USAF Air Demonstration Squadron, were formed in 1953 and are assigned to the 57th Wing at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada. Their primary mission is to support U.S. Air Force recruiting and retention efforts, along with demonstrating the professional skills of Air Force personnel. They perform their air shows with six F-16 Fighting Falcon jets, showcasing formation flying and solo maneuvers.

The squadron is very community-oriented and offer the Hometown Hero program wherever they are performing.

Toledo Fire and Rescue chief Allison Armstrong sits in the cockpit of the F-16 fighter jet during the dress rehearsal performance for the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds on May 9.

The Hometown Hero Program offers individuals who have made a significant positive impact on their communities an opportunity to fly in the backseat of a Thunderbird F-16. These “Hometown Heroes” are nominated for their service, sacrifice and dedication. The program aims to recognize and honor their contributions while showcasing the capabilities of the Air Force.

Armstrong was nominated by the Air Show committee. She was one of several people whose names were presented to the USAF Thunderbirds and ultimately deemed to be the ideal candidate as the Toledo Air Show Hometown Hero.

Prior to climbing into the cockpit, she met with the Thunderbirds flight surgeon to be briefed on how to properly use the G-suit that she would wear, and how to breath and brace so that she didn’t black out during the high G-force maneuvers she would be enduring.

The Thunderbirds ground support crew fitted her for a G-suit, harness, helmet and face mask. After that, she sat in on the pilot and team briefing sessions.

For Armstrong, the experience didn’t feel real until the canopy began to lower and the jet began to roll. At that point, she said that she was “excited, nervous and terrified all at the same time.”

Toledo Fire and Rescue chief Allison Armstrong flies in the chase plane during the dress rehearsal performance for the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds on May 9.

Toledo Fire and Rescue chief Allison Armstrong, in the rear seat, takes off in F-16 fighter jet.

Armstrong’s jet took off and climbed three miles into the sky, allowing her to watch the entire Thunderbirds show routine from high overhead. Her jet performed the same maneuvers that were done by the team, and it trailed behind during group formations.

“I didn’t realize that the flight was part of the dress rehearsal,” said Armstrong. “It was absolutely amazing to be behind the other group and to see the planes in formation.”

At some point during the flight, the pilot let her fly the jet.

On Sunday, Armstrong watched the Thunderbirds show as a spectator from the ground.

“The view from the air is much different than the view from the ground. Watching the show from the ground tied it all together,” she said.

Reflecting on her experience to fly with the Thunderbirds, Armstrong said she was “extremely grateful that they thought of me and I got an opportunity that most people will never get. Me climbing into an F-16…I never thought that I [would] be there in a million years.”

View Photo Gallery Below:

Toledo Fire & Rescue chief Allison Armstrong climbs into the cockpit of an F-16 fighter jet.

Toledo Fire and Rescue chief Allison Armstrong gets help putting on her helmet and face mask.

Toledo Fire and Rescue chief Allison Armstrong waves as the F-16 fighter jet taxis out to the runway.

Toledo Fire and Rescue chief Allison Armstrong sits in the back seat of the F-16 fighter jet.

Toledo Fire and Rescue chief Allison Armstrong flies in the chase plane.

Toledo Fire and Rescue chief Allison Armstrong takes a selfie with advance pilot/narrator Maj. Brandon Maxon.

Toledo Fire and Rescue chief Allison Armstrong is presented with an autographed photo of the Thunderbirds by advance pilot/narrator Maj. Brandon Maxon.

Thunderbirds, barnstormers soared in Toledo Air Show

By

Steven Bieber

-

May 13, 2025

0

2025 Toledo Air Show : MAY 11 — The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds perform during the Toledo Air Show on May 11 at the Eugene F. Kranz Toledo Express Airport in Swanton. (TFP Photo/Scott W. Grau)

SWANTON – After a six-year hiatus, the skies once again echoed with the roar of fighter jets and barnstormers during the Toledo Air Show at Eugene F. Kranz Toledo Express Airport.

From Friday through Sunday, thousands of spectators gathered to admire static aircraft displays, walk through a cargo plane and be thrilled by a talented lineup of performers, headlined by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, who made their return to the Northwest Ohio sky for the first time in nine years.

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds perform. (TFP Photo/Scott W. Grau)

Spectators look skyward as they watch various fly acts.(TFP Photo/Scott W. Grau)

Mike Timbrook has been the air show executive director since the last show in 2019. He served in the Ohio Air National Guard’s 180th Fighter Wing for 28 years, flying an F-16 for 21 of those years. He was originally the chief of safety in the 2000s. He said the show was delayed for runway construction and deployments before returning in 2016, followed by another hiatus beginning in 2019 due to the pandemic.

The newly revived air show featured aircraft from the past and present. Some historical planes featured were the B-25J Mitchell Bomber and the C-47 Skytrain from WWII. The modern military aircraft included the F-16 Fighting Falcon, the A-10 Warthog and the F-35A Lightning. The latter is the newest in the Air Force, Navy and Marine inventory.

Mike Timbrook. (TFP Photo/Steven Bieber)

“People get to see how things have progressed from World War II to the Vietnam era, Korean War to today’s airplanes,” Timbrook said. “From prop airplanes that go slow without a pressurized cockpit, non-oxygen, to today’s airplanes that are air conditioned and everything, it’s pretty amazing. You climb up one of those [WWII planes] and you go, ‘Holy smoke, I can’t believe people used to fly in this,’ to the stuff we have today.”

Timbrook said the airshow provided plenty for children and adults to do, including E.C.H.O. (Enhanced Cognitive Human Operations), a simulation that allows kids and adults to put on apparatus gear and simulate being a fighter pilot. Along with exhibits, he touted performances that featured Ferrari, Porsche and Corvette race fighter jets.

“It’s a great spectacle, and you get to see people perform in airplanes and do some pretty awesome stuff that we as normal folks will never get to do,” he said.

Timbrook said that after all the bills are paid and money is stored for the next show, the proceeds are donated to local charity.

Thunderbird pilots wave to spectators after their performance on May 11. (TFP Photo/Scott W. Grau)

Kyle Russell has been a pilot for the 47th Flying Training Wing for seven years. He pursued flying because his father and grandfather were both pilots. He fell in love with it after flying in an F-15.

“I realized that I never wanted to do anything else after that,” Russell said. “I think it’s just the coolest thing.”

For those considering becoming a pilot, Russell said there are a few ways to start, noting that the the best way is to join the Air Force because they will pay for everything. If you don’t want to join the military, flying commercially or learning to fly for air shows like the Toledo Air Show is another option.

A 180th Fighter Wing F-16 and the Quick Silver P-51D. (TFP Photo/Scott W. Grau)

“Find someone that does what you want to do and talk to them about how they do it,” said Russell, who was at the show for a display, but not to perform.

To overcome the dangers of flying, Russell said safety is everything.

“Before we step out of the door, we assess our risks for the day, make sure that what we’re doing is safe and makes sense, and then briefing any rules that might be a factor, trade rules, and make sure we’re adhering to those.”

Ryan McBroom traveled from Bedford Township, Mich. to watch his 4th air show. He enjoys the show with his wife and kids, but that’s not his only reason for attending.

He said he likes that it gives the Air Force a chance to show off its military strength, and he is impressed with the engineering. “To me, it’s just seeing the raw power of it all,” McBroom said, adding that the air show gave people in Toledo and the surrounding areas something to do on the weekend.

Rob Holland, a 13-time, consecutive U.S. National Aerobatic Champion and a five-time world champion in aerobatics, performed at the Toledo Air Show in both 2016 and 2019 and was scheduled to return this year. But tragically, he died in a plane crash while attempting to land during a test flight at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Va., on April 24.

Timbrook said Holland was a mentor for many and will be greatly missed.