Home Blog Page 20

Whitehouse bids farewell to Josh Hartbarger

By
Karen Gerhardinger
-
0
Josh Hartbarger, center, is joined by his father, Rory, wife Nikki and daughters Josie and Valerie following the May 19 Whitehouse Village Council meeting, where he was commended for his 25 years of service. Hartbarger is set to begin a new position as administrator with the city of Maumee on June 1. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

WHITEHOUSE – The 13 Anthony Wayne High School students attending the May 19 Whitehouse Village Council meeting for AP Government class witnessed first-hand how public servants can make a difference.

As Josh Hartbarger prepares to conclude his 25-year career with the village – one that started as a volunteer firefighter and concluded as deputy administrator and chief operating officer – Council passed a resolution commending him for his meritorious service.

While he will remain a village resident, Hartbarger will begin a new chapter in his career as administrator for the City of Maumee. Village Administrator Jordan Daugherty said he’s always known that Hartbarger was destined for something big.

“Josh’s leadership here has done more than direct operations or manage programs – it has inspired others to grow professionally, to pursue excellence in public safety and to deepen their commitment to public service,” Mayor Rich Bingham said. 

He noted that since taking his most recent role as COO and deputy administrator, Hartbarger has brought steadiness, strong administrative skills and clear communication – elevating day-to-day operations by mentoring staff, refining systems and modeling professionalism that is expected from public servants.

“He is known across departments and among residents as dedicated, respected, a thoughtful communicator and a mentor – a public servant who blends administrative skill with a genuine concern for people,” Bingham continued. 

Anthony Wayne High School AP Government students gather outside Whitehouse Village Hall on May 19, following the village council meeting. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

Council members also weighed in. Carrie Tuohy said her first months in office were “scary” but that Hartbarger allows everyone to have a voice and feel heard. Steve Fine said Hartbarger’s service and leadership served as a role model. Joe Bublick noted that Hartbarger is respected throughout the community. And Larry Yunker said he’s enjoyed seeing Hartbarger progress in the 20 years since they first met while Yunker was applying for grants for the fire department.

“I wish I could have met you sooner,” said Council Member Dave Riggenbach.

Council Member Louann Artiaga first met Hartbarger when he was third-grader in Barb Smigelski’s Whitehouse Primary School classroom, which approached council in the early 1990s to ask that the village open a public library. When the non-profit Whitehouse Library opened years later, Hartbarger was one of the first board members.

“Who Josh Hartbarger is to me: a man of principal and many virtues. It has been my honor to watch you grow as a man, friend and community leader,” Artiaga said.

One reason why Hartbarger has been able to shine is because of the support he’s had over the years from an excellent staff, elected officials and residents, noted former council member Rebecca Conklin Kleiboemer.

“One of the best legacies you can do for him is to continue that spirit and work together,” she advised. “They’re big shoes to fill, but you have such great people here.”

Hartbarger thanked the village, administration and elected officials for their support, and credited his parents, wife Nikki, and daughters Josie and Valerie, who put up with his time spent away from the family. He also noted that Smigelski’s letters over the years have continued to inspire him to “build bridges.”

During the meeting, council also:

-Heard that the village received $258,000 in Ohio Public Works Commission funding for resurfacing in Steeplechase, Blue Prairie, Belmont Circle and Stockton Avenue.

-Listened to Police Chief Allan Baer thank the students who participated in a joint rescue task force training at the high school – designed to give police and fire/EMS personnel realistic scenarios that involve mass casualties in order to streamline communications and response times. The 20 students acted as victims – screaming and acting so realistically that it elevated his blood pressure, Baer said. 

-Heard Fire Chief Jason Francis say that Dave Beakas will resign effective May 31 after 34 years in the fire service. He will be recognized on June 3.

-Listened to Tuohy ask about Bingham’s comment, during a Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting, that he could serve as a tie-breaker if Council is split 3-3 on a vote regarding employee benefit changes. Since the COW meeting is a discussion led by the council president, Tuohy and Yunker said Bingham should not have a vote. Law Director Kevin Heban said Council only votes during council meetings, but that he would need to research Bingham could break a tie on decisions made on whether to forward a recommendation from COW meetings to a full vote at council.

-Heard that the village needs to reline a section of sewer, which comes with a price tag of $1.2 million. Staff is looking for grants to cover the cost, but may consider a low interest loan.

-Discussed a request for a speed study on Oak Brook Drive, as development of Country Meadows South will access Oak Brook through a Temperance Street stub. The current concern from many Oak Brook residents is speeding, and a speed camera can be used to provide data to determine if a future speed study is needed. If it is, the developer could be required to pay for the study.

-Heard that Council is considering reinstating a Design Review Board to govern standards in the downtown area.

Providence Township considers data center zoning

By
Karen Gerhardinger
-
0

PROVIDENCE TOWNSHIP – Providence Township is getting help from its neighbors to the east.

Concerned that a data center might land in the area, trustees asked Waterville Township Trustee Toby Miller to share details on his township’s push to adopt a new M-3 zoning designation – and amend its M-2 and M-1 zoning language – rather than using a conditional use permit process put into place last year.

During their May 20 meeting, Providence Township trustees listened as Miller outlined how his township put a one-year moratorium in place Dec. 17 and has since formed a Data Center Advisory Committee. Through the committee’s research and advice from the planner leading the township’s land use plan update, Waterville Township agreed to move forward with a change in how it will handle requests from data center developers or other large, campus-style high energy usage facilities.

Using a conditional use permit (CUP) for such large entities is problematic for a few reasons, Miller said. First, the process bypasses trustees –elected officials who meet regularly – and puts the decision in the hands of Board of Zoning Appeals members, who are appointed officials who only meet when needed.

Also, a CUP is considered an administrative process, and therefore cannot by challenged by citizens. On the other hand, a decision to rezone property to M-3 could be appealed by residents, who could file a referendum by collecting signatures from 10 percent of registered voters who voted in the last election.

“This is a major change switching from a conditional use permit to actual zoning,” he said. 

The 67-page document outlining proposed changes to the zoning resolution includes regulations for sound, light, setbacks, landscaping and other aspects. It also sets fees of $500 an acre just to apply for rezoning, plus a large escrow that would be used in the event that the facility was not finished, abandoned early or if the operators do not comply with regulations.

“What we’ve seen in Middleton Township and found in our research is that it’s never Microsoft or Apple coming in with a single permit – it’s 27 LLCs splitting it into dozens of permits,” he said. “In this resolution, we make it to where they have to submit an integrated plan.”

That means even if multiple entities are handling portions of a large project, the entire project has to be presented with a plan for all phases of construction so that all the rules apply across the board, Miller said.

Trustees spoke with Miller about how to integrate the new language into their existing zoning resolution, and Miller offered to help in that process. Providence Township had already been undergoing an overhaul of its zoning resolution when Jim Fischer – who serves as zoning inspector for both townships – suggested they look at following Waterville Township’s lead to add M-3.

Monclova Township and Spencer Township are also watching to see how the Lucas County Plan Commission and staff receive the proposed language changes. During a recent meeting, Monclova Township Trustee Barbara Lang thanked Waterville Township for taking a different approach that could provide more protection.

“We’ll see how comfortable everyone is with the language,” Providence Township Trustee Steve Kendall told Miller during the meeting. “We’re obviously aware that where there’s smoke, there’s fire. People on the township line have been asking if it will be across the road.”

While no applications have been submitted, the southern half of Waterville Township has plenty of farmland. Its dividing line with Providence Township is Hertzfeld Road.

Making the zoning regulations the same in both townships will solve future problems that may develop, Kendall said. Trustee Lee Bialecki agreed, noting that moving on changes soon makes sense.

“That way if something breaks loose we’re all on the same page,” Bialecki said.

Without having any language governing data centers on the books, Providence Township approved a one-year moratorium on April 15, and asked Fischer to seek out advice. Miller recommended that trustees and residents who are interested in more details on the proposed zoning language should look at watervilletownship.com for the full report and a presentation made during a May 12 meeting. The next step is for the county to review the report and make recommendations. A series of public hearings will take place at the county and township level in the months to follow.

During the meeting, trustees also:

-Heard Jim Stang, zoning commission chair, ask why trustees are looking at replacing a 10-year-old dump truck. With the price of new vehicles skyrocketing, he said trustees should consider the number of miles and usage of the truck rather than just replacing vehicles every 10 years. Bialecki said keeping the fleet in good working order is vital to ensure roads are cleared in emergencies. He added that waiting would result in a lower trade-in value as well.

-Discussed a Berridge Road resident’s request for another extension – this time until Dec. 30 – to complete an accessory building that is under construction. The building was to be complete April 30, but due to delays they asked for a June 30 extension. Trustees agreed to wait until the property owner could come to a meeting to answer questions before deciding on issuing another extension.

-Heard an update from Fire Chief Richard Triggs on options for repairing or replacing the 2022 ambulance damaged in a Feb. 18 accident by another driver. He is also reviewing with Fiscal Officer Julie Ludwig the insurance coverage amounts for all vehicles and equipment.

Waterville Library celebrates 100 years

By
Karen Gerhardinger
-
0
The Waterville Branch Library will mark its 100th anniversary on Saturday, June 6 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at 800 Michigan Ave. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

WATERVILLE – A century ago, the Waterville Library opened in a small but growing village on the banks of the Maumee River. Located in the “new” Waterville School – razed in 2017 and now Parker Square – the library could be found up a short flight of steps from the ground floor.

“Those steps seemed huge,” recalled Karen Wiggins, a retired Waterville Library branch manager who remembers walking up those steps as a child. “It was both the public and the school library…but it was pretty small. Now it’s one of the top circulation branches in the whole system. The community uses it a lot.”

Amy Fluck is the longest-serving employee of the Waterville Branch, joining the library in 2000 as a shelver. She created a scrapbook of the 2004-2005 renovations at the library. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

The community is invited to celebrate the library’s 100th anniversary on Saturday, June 6 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 800 Michigan Ave. 

The 1926 founding of the Waterville Library is mentioned in a 2001 history of the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library by David M. Noel. According to his research, within a year of opening, the Waterville Chamber of Commerce appealed to the county school board for a separate building, but it wasn’t until 1964 that the 2,600-square-foot branch on Michigan Avenue was completed.

In the 1970s, a 5,000-square-foot addition was completed to the east of the building and, in 2005, renovations made space for meetings and story hours – including a built-in puppet theater and Carruth Studios pieces inset into the walls.

Three Main Library employees – Mary Rava Miller, Emily Fountain and Carlye Seybold – have fond memories of their time with the Waterville Branch Library. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

Mary Rava Miller, who is now the Main children’s library manager, remembers the excitement when the Bluebird passenger train would roll by on the tracks next to the library.

“We’d pause because every child would run to the window. When working with children, librarians have to be flexible,” said Rava Miller, who worked with Jo Kehoe to launch the Babytime program at the branch. “We had lots of babies and families. Librarians are a good role model for reading books to children.”

When Kehoe retired after 39 years of working with children, Patti Lusher took the helm, and for 18 years has organized programs both on-site and in the schools and community. One of her favorite programs has been “Sit. Stay. Read.” –  in which children read to pups from Therapy Dogs International.

“Parents loved it. Kids loved it. I loved it,” Lusher said. “If kids start loving books because they come to a story time, it doesn’t matter who helps them. The important thing is that they love to read and to go to the library. It’s fun to help kids get into something they’re interested in.”

Over the years, Lusher has expanded the branch’s homeschool program, with its own book club and STEM time. She also works with librarian John Cook, who runs a popular chess league.

Carlye Seybold, who now works at the Main Library, often helped Lusher with children’s programs, and she laughs at recalling teen librarian Adrienne Amborski‘s program based on the popular Fear Factor. Amborski put together odd concoctions of food, including a fried worm, for kids to try.

“Kids love the weird,” Seybold said. “And they would come out in full force.”

Adapting programs for children and teens has been a focal point for many of the librarians, with themes based on Lemony Snicket, Harry Potter and other popular books. Wacky Olympics and crafts like tie-dying and making suncatchers are also big draws. Teens always come out in full force to volunteer during the Summer Reading Club, which draws over 1,000 participates a year.

During the pandemic, Seybold worked on an online program modeled after Animal Crossing, in which players were invited to visit Library Island.

“We’re lucky to work in an organization that gives us ideas for programs but gives us room to move too,” Seybold said.

Waterville has always been known as a family-oriented branch, said Emily Fountain, who was a circulation clerk at the branch before moving to Main in 2021. She was known as the sticker lady for giving fun stickers to children.

“It’s nice to learn about the families and the community. I loved engaging with people at the circulation desk,” Fountain said.

When Wiggins was manager, she launched Bookenders, a daytime book club, and Book Chat, in which members share their latest reads. These provided an alternative to the evening book club that Amborski launched in 2005.

“I love the adult book club. Many of us have become friends. And we still have some of the original members,” said Amborski, who has since launched a Cookbook Club that features members scouring the variety of cookbooks available in the library and making foods to share and compare.

All of the librarians point to the community for their support, and the library’s success. 

“We have an avid clientele of readers here. That’s why Waterville is such a gem,” Amborski said. “We have a blend of technical services and traditional library services – programming and connecting readers to the right author.”

Staff members of the Waterville Branch Library include (from left) Will Harbauer, Adrienne Amborski, Colleen Staerker, John Cook, Editha Dehm, Patti Lusher and Jess Huth. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

While the Waterville Branch is among the smallest physically, it’s among the busiest, with 86,524 visitors in 2024. The juvenile section is the most-used section – with young readers growing into adult patrons over the years, said manager Will Harbauer. The Waterville branch has an extensive collection on site, access to materials throughout the system, and free options through Hoopla, Libby and Audible, he added.

The library receives 40 percent of its funding from the state and 60 percent of funding from property taxes or levies. Harbauer points to a return on investment report showing that for every $1.00 invested in the library, the community gets $6.73 in return.

Retired Waterville Library manager Karen Wiggins stands next to a portrait of the library’s first manager, Lois Waffle. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

The report shows that the library is successful in boosting early literacy and kindergarten readiness and helps adults with workforce development, digital access and entrepreneurial support. The library provides access to local services, like the Maumee Senior Center programs for seniors, and those are show to reduce social isolation and improve public health. 

When community members flock to the Anthony Wayne Area Arts Commission‘s Eats & Beats Food Truck Tuesdays each summer, or attend a public meeting, they discover a space that is open and bright, with a community glass mural depicting a tree swing, waterfall, train and castle – a scene that captures the essence of the adventures that await inside the books.

Patrons also come to find that the library staff is there to listen, advise and encourage growth. 

Lois Waffle, who worked for Waterville Library for 53 years, is seen in a 1983 photo with a young patron. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

That’s a trend that started with the first manager, Lois Waffle, who served for 53 years, starting as a page while still in high school. 

“The library was her life from a young age. I’ve heard many stories and know that she was quite a character who had no qualms speaking her mind,” Amborski said of Waffle, who was followed by Cam Brady, Wiggins and Harbauer as managers.

A portrait of Waffle hangs in the library. Amborski calls it the Scooby-Do portrait.

“Everyone would say that her eyes move with you,” Rava Miller laughed.

Stop by the library during regular hours to lay eyes on Waffle’s portrait, check out a book or say hello to the staff. And join the fun on Saturday, June 6 from 11a.m. to 3 p.m. for a celebration that includes members of the Anthony Wayne Marching Generals, Metroparks Toledo’s rock climbing wall, food trucks, crafts, games, a food truck and organizations including the Anthony Wayne Area Arts Commission, Waterville Historical Society and the police and fire departments.

Library staff members include back row, from left, Colin Harsh, Will Harbauer, Tina Ross, Amy Fluck and Jess Huth, and (front row) Beth Chovanec, Noel Anderson, John Cook and Patti Lusher. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

Toledo perspectives on Israel & Palestine

By
Stephen Zenner
-
0
Walaa Kanan, a northwest Ohio organizer for the Pro-Palestinian movement, addresses Pro-Palestine advocates who were unable to fit in the room during the Lucas County Investment Advisory Committee meeting inside City Council Chambers. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)

October 7, 2023 marked a significant escalation in tensions surrounding Israelis and Palestinians living in the Levant. 

Hamas, the local government in Gaza, and U.S. designated terrorist organization, launched a coordinated attack on the south of Israel. The attack resulted in about 1,200 Israelis killed and more than 240 people taken hostage by Hamas. 

As of October 2025, the United Nations (UN) reported that 81 percent of all buildings have been destroyed in Gaza, with 92 percent of all housing in Gaza destroyed or damaged as part of Israel’s retribution against Gaza for the Oct. 7 attack.

At least 72,000 Gazans have been killed during Israel’s attacks on Gaza since 2023. 

The destruction in Gaza, withholding of aid, along with dehumanizing rhetoric against Palestinians from Israel’s far-right leadership has led a UN commission to declare what is happening in Gaza as a genocide, while Israel maintains that it is defending itself from terrorist attacks. 

Tensions surrounding Israel and Palestine have always been high, but have become a part of regular American discourse, with rising support for Palestinians and waning support for Israel. 

According to a February 2026 poll by Gallup, all demographics across America show a downward trend in support for Israel, some significant, while others show a lull. 

And Palestinian support has become significantly higher, especially for those under the age of 55. 

Regardless of the fallibility of polling, contrary views on Israel and Palestine run hot. 

The Toledo Free Press spoke to people from northwest Ohio with varied viewpoints, all of whom cared enough about the issue to show up in-person during public opportunities to make their stance known.

Initially, there were four different groups the TFP hoped to sit down with for long-form interviews to better understand their beliefs, including: the American Jewish Zionist perspective, a Palestinian American perspective, an American Christian Zionist perspective and an American anti-war perspective. 

TFP was successful in getting three of these categories represented, with members of the Greater Toledo House of Prayer declining to be interviewed for the American Christian Zionist perspective. TFP captured that group’s presence at a county meeting that involved discussions about divesting from Israel. Read that full story here.

In performing these interviews, TFP did not attempt to prove or disprove the beliefs presented by the interviewees, but to question enough to showcase how the individuals were thinking about what is going on in the world as it relates to Israelis and Palestinians. 

The contentious nature of discussions over Israel and Palestine has entrenched opposite sides, and our publication’s hope is that these interviews will act as a footnote to document opinions of those who cared enough to show up in person and voice them. 

Collecting these three interviews took place over the course of many months, and global events changed over those months. When viewing each interview, it is important to make note of the date to place it into proper context of what had happened at that time, as Israel, Palestine and Gaza all have had significant changes in international politics since beginning this project. 

Phil Tottenham (Interviewed on Oct. 23, 2025)

The first interviewee for this project was Marine Veteran Phil Tottenham, representing the American anti-war perspective, as a member of Veterans for Peace. 

Tottenham talked about his history, growing up in Texas, joining the marines and viewing the world from an initially right-wing perspective before re-evaluating his beliefs. 

Since then, Tottenham has become vehemently anti-war and pro-Palestine, ultimately trying to break the blockade on Gaza by taking part in the second Global Sumud Flotilla and briefly being imprisoned in Israel. 

From his view, Palestinians are oppressed so that others may profit from their losses, and not necessarily just Israelis. Tottenham spoke of Smedley Butler, the most decorated Marine in history, and his book, War is a Racket, talking about how the rich profit off of war, fought by less wealthy individuals.  

Tottenham hopes for a better life for Palestinians, when they are not restricted as they are currently. 

Stephen Rothschild (Nov. 26, 2025)

CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo, Stephen Rothschild, sat down to speak about the need for Israel as a safe haven for Jews across the world. 

Rothschild spoke on behalf of the Jewish Federation, and clarified his responsibility to speak from his position and not from personal viewpoints. 

During this interview, Rothschild spoke of the hostility Israel has received from its neighbors, and the need for Israel to defend itself. 

Israel and Palestine are caught in an intractable conflict, according to Rothschild, who fears the massacring of Jews if the United States withheld its support from Israel. 

Rising global antisemitism is a major concern for Rothschild, and in his view, Israel needs to remain an ethnostate for the safety of Jews around the world. 

While Rothschild may not agree with all parts of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netenyahu’s policy, he remains strong on the need for a Jewish state in the levant, and feels a double standard is applied to Israel when it tries to create a safe world for its citizens. 

In his opinion, Israel may not be perfect – no countries are – but Israel is better than other governments in the region. 

Walaa Kanan (April 2, 2026)

Palestinian American and pro-Palestine organizer, Walaa Kanan, spoke from her first-hand experience growing up in Toledo and traveling to visit family in the West Bank of Palestine. 

Kanan spoke of the encroaching and illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank, separate roads for Israelis and Palestinians and Israeli checkpoints. 

Gaza’s history does not start on Oct. 7 for Kanan, but with Israel restricting goods and access to the area for decades and with the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians during the 1948 War. Kanan does not believe there is a conflict, but that Israel is a modern colonial state that took land from Palestinians through ethnic cleansing and genocide. 

Kanan hopes for a one-state solution where Muslims, Jews and Christians can live equally under one government. 

Swanton Township addresses zoning issues

By
Karen Gerhardinger
-
0
(AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

SWANTON TOWNSHIP – Between Arrowhead Lake Mobile Home Park, an Airport highway heavy equipment sales and service shop and an abandoned boat on Reed Road, Swanton Township Zoning Inspector Ben Mooney is busy, he told trustees during their May 12 meeting.

Arrowhead Lake owners were sent a notice of violation in December, and Mooney has been in touch with local and out-of-state management, but he has reached out again to ask for an update on progress on issues including blight, trees and vacant homes. Per the advice of the county’s assistant prosecuting attorney, John Borell, Mooney will continue to document progress.

A special zoning meeting will be set to discuss how to handle 12565 Airport Highway, where the new owners of the former Pastorek’s are operating a semi sales and service shop. Neighbors have complained about noise, lights and the use of the facility at all hours of the night, as well as increased truck traffic on Soul Road and Airport Highway. The zoning was mixed use with residential and C-2 when it was an auto sales and service shop. The current owner is running a C-4 zoned business. 

Mooney is also working with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and Michigan Department of State to obtain a title for a boat that was abandoned on a Reed Road property, in order to donate or sell the boat.

In addition to addressing complaints, Mooney said he would like to being a thorough review of the township’s zoning resolution to bring it up to date and clarify some inconsistencies in language. 

“This will be a large and detailed project. It will take time to get it all put together and reviewed but it will be a huge benefit to the residents of the township when it’s done,” he said.

Any special zoning meetings will be announced on the website, Facebook and the bulletin board.

During the meeting, the trustees also:

-Cancelled the regular June 9 meeting due to an expected lack of quorum and set a new meeting for Monday, June 1 at 7:30 p.m.

-Heard Springfield Township Fire Chief Jonathon Ziehr report that of the 18 runs in the northern half of the township in April, 14 were for EMS and four were fire-related. The department was involved in 17 related events, including fire inspections and pre-planning meetings. The department received a $364,000 federal grant to replace 50 radios and has plans for replacing a 16-year-old engine. Stations 51 and 53 are undergoing remodeling.

-Listened to Trustee Matt Beil report that Velocity, a managed technology solutions provider at 11300 Crosswinds Dr., held a ribbon cutting on an expansion of its operations. Founded in 2005, the expansion represents a $1.5 million investment and 40 employees who will be relocated to the township. The project will bring employment opportunities, infrastructure investment and continued development of the region’s logistics and technology sector, Beil said.

-Learned that the Metroparks will be installing a 22-space gravel parking lot along Girdham Road, which is one of the top birdwatching spots in the area.

-Heard an update on the Toledo Express Airport Joint Economic Development District (TEA-JEDD) – a collaboration with Monclova Township and the city of Toledo for properties around the airport. The township receives one-third of the 1.5 percent income tax collection. For the fourth quarter of 2025, that was $18,887.98.

-Heard Trustee Bill Anderson say that an application has been submitted to have a Revolutionary War historical marker placed on the grave of Joel Scott. 

-Learned that construction for two roundabouts – one at Monclova Road and Wilkins and another at Providence-Neapolis-Swanton and Archbold-Whitehouse roads – is expected to start in June and July. Another roundabout is planned for Wilkins and Shaffer in 2031.

-Heard Beil say that he continues to be in discussions with both Swanton and Whitehouse about options for fire/EMS coverage throughout the township, with the current primary focus on the southern half.

-Learned that green reflective mailbox signs are available for $10 through the Springfield Township Fire Department.

-Discussed a letter from the Village of Swanton about the annexation of two parcels – a total of 160 acres – owned by Schmidt Farms Group. Trustees expressed frustration over the continued loss of land and plan to ask Swanton officials to engage in cooperative discussions.

-Heard that the launch of the website and email – which would benefit from a .gov domain – was delayed. The site is now expected to launch in a month. The ADA compliance portion of the website can be delayed until April 2028 per the Ohio Auditor of State.

-Heard Beil say that the township’s four outdoor sirens are the responsibility of the jurisdiction they are in, and the EMA provides the signal to the warning sirens, not maintenance or installation of the sirens themselves. It may cost up to $40,000 to repair or replace one non-functioning siren on S.R. 295. Beil said he had a conversation with the EMA director and conducted his own research, and found that there are better, more cost-effective solutions available, such as automatic alerts and weather radios.

The other three sirens are working. Residents can sign up for text alerts from the Lucas County EMA. 

-Unanimously approved a resolution opposing the elimination of all property taxes in Ohio. The resolution will be sent to state officials.

Anthony Wayne organizations award scholarships

By
Karen Gerhardinger
-
0
Among the Waterville Community Foundation scholarship winners are, from left, Grant Hubley, Nathan Barasch, Colleen Hildebrand, AJ Rea, Liam Close and Madeline Johnston. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

Three area organizations – the Anthony Wayne Area Rotary Club, the Anthony Wayne Area Democratic Club and the Waterville Community Foundation – awarded scholarships to area seniors in May.

Anthony Wayne Area Rotary Club

Ella Hertzfeld. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

The 98-year-old Waterville Rotary Club is now the Anthony Wayne Area Rotary Club, in recognition of its service throughout the area. High school students get involved through the Interact Club, which provides opportunities for following the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.”

Four students were selected for scholarships this year. Katherine Cardenas plans to attend the University of Michigan to study biology. Grant Hubley is headed to Ohio University to study political science and pre-law. Ella Kosinski is attending The Ohio State University to major in dance and exercise science. And Lydia Smucker will major in biochemisry at the University of Detroit, Mercy.

ROTARY

Four students were selected for Anthony Wayne Area Rotary Club scholarships this year, including (from left) Lydia Smucker, Grant Hubley, Ella Kosinski and Katherine Cardenas. (Courtesy photo)

Anthony Wayne Area Democratic Club

Grant Hubley was chosen as the recipient of the Anthony Wayne Area Democratic Club scholarship, after submitting an essay on political courage. 

In his essay, Grant explained how he was on a student panel in March 2025, making a presentation, when an adult attendee stood up and shouted at him, accusing him of being wrong.

“In that moment, I faced a choice. I could react defensively and escalate the situation, or I could model the democratic principles I value: respect, healthy and productive dialogue, and a willingness to change,” he wrote. “I chose composure.”

Afterwards, Grant spoke with the man about the reasons behind his comments, and learned that his frustration was not personal, but rather because of his own challenges in making needed reforms.

“Listening to him broadened my understanding. While I maintained my positions, I learned how much persistence and passion are needed to succeed with policy change,” Grant wrote. “The conversation changed no policy. Instead, it changed the adults in the room’s foundational beliefs: democracy functions when disagreement leads to conversation rather than division, especially with young people. Respect transformed confrontation into dialogue.

“Political courage is not always casting a dramatic vote; sometimes it is standing firm in your convictions while treating opponents with dignity. This is what continues to instill  public trust in our institutions for generations to come.”

Grant has served in national and state levels of Family, Community and Career Leaders of America (FCCLA) leadership, is on student council and a member of the Interact Club and Environmental Awareness Club. He plans to major in political science and pre-law at Ohio University, with a goal of working in Washington DC.

Waterville Community Foundation

The Waterville Community Foundation awarded the Katherine R. Smith Scholarship to nine area seniors. Founded 25 years ago, the foundation supports numerous community projects, but the Katherine R. Smith funds are focused on helping children – including scholarships for graduating seniors.

The recipients who were able to attend shared some of the highlights of community service projects they have enjoyed over the years.

• Nathan Barasch, an Anthony Wayne High School graduate, is heading to Ohio Northern University to study engineering and join the swim team. His goal is to become a design engineer in the automotive industry. One of his favorite projects over the years has been the Halloween food drive, in which students collect canned and boxed foods for those in need.

•Abigail Beier, a Notre Dame Academy graduate, will study operations management at Indiana University-Bloomington.

•Liam Close, a Toledo Technology Academy graduate, plans to study civil engineering at the University of Toledo. During high school he designed and built sets and did lighting and sound for community theater organizations. He recently spent a semester as an intern at the Lucas County Engineer’s Office.

•Ella Hertzfeld, a St. Ursula Academy graduate, is headed to the University of Dayton to major in biology for a pre-med track. Ella volunteers with Toledo Victory Center, helping with events. As a student council, she has also hosted fundraisers for cancer research.

•Colleen Hildebrand, an Anthony Wayne High School graduate, will study biomedical engineering at Miami University with a pre-med track. As a member of Interact Club, one of her favorite programs to support is Let’s Build Beds. Through DECA, she created a marketing campaign on the nonprofit that provides beds for children. 

•Grant Hubley, an Anthony Wayne High School graduate, is headed to Ohio University to study political science/pre-law, with the goal of being elected to office or to get involved in Washington, D.C. Through FCCLA, Grant said his favorite community service project was working with Waterville Primary School students to write holiday letters to residents of StoryPoint Senior Living Community.

Arjun Jayaraman. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

•Arjun Jayaraman, an Anthony Wayne High School graduate, plans to study mechanical engineering or business at the University of California at Berkley.

•Madeline Johnston, an Anthony Wayne High School graduate, plans to study business administration and international business at The Ohio State University. As a member of Youth Leadership Toledo, Madeline has been involved in numerous community service projects.

•AJ Rea, an Anthony Wayne High School graduate, plans to study communication design at Miami University. His favorite community service project was building and distributing beds to children in need through Let’s Build Beds.

Monclova roundabout work begins June 8

By
Karen Gerhardinger
-
0
Construction of a roundabout at Albon and Monclova roads is set to start on June 1. The sign in front of the Monclova Township administration building will be replaced. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

*AWFP originally reported that the work would be begin on June 1, but it has since been moved back to June 8.

MONCLOVA TOWNSHIP – Roundabout construction season is about to begin, and Monclova Township residents – as well as those passing through – will feel it the most. A total of four roundabouts are planned for the township this summer.

Work on a roundabout at Monclova Road and Albon Road, next to the Monclova Township administration building and fire department, is set to start Monday, June 1, Township Administrator Michael Hampton II told trustees during their May 18 meeting (though AWFP did receive a notice on May 22 from the Lucas County engineer that construction has been moved back to June 8).

“Notifications were sent out this week to residents,” he said. 

Construction for the project is expected to last about 45 days. During that time, a temporary, gravel road will allow emergency crews from the fire station to access communities to the east without a long detour that could cost minutes, Hampton said. 

“The plan is to keep response times the same and still have residents get the great service they’ve been getting,” Hampton said. 

Sheriff’s deputies will keep an eye on the area, to ensure that non-emergency vehicles don’t use the gravel roadway, he added.

Once completed, construction of a mini-roundabout will begin at Monclova and Waterville-Monclova Road. With Monclova Primary School on the corner and Monclova Christian Academy to the east, getting this second roundabout finished by mid-August is imperative. 

Hampton noted that the county is frustrated by delays in the utility work, and has asked the contractor for the Albon/Monclova project to use an accelerated schedule, as it impacts the start date of the roundabout in front of the school. The goal is to finish that second project by Aug. 15 – just before Monclova Primary School opens to students on August 17.

“Our office was prepared to begin construction of the roundabout intersection improvements at Albon and Monclova road with closure of the intersection for 45 days in mid-April.  However, construction cannot commence until the utilities have been relocated. Despite giving the utilities over a year to complete their work, it is frustrating that this could result in impacts to the school and neighboring businesses,” said Lucas County Engineer Mike Pniewski.

In addition to the two Monclova Road roundabouts, the county plans to install a roundabout at U.S. 20A and Albon, but a start date has not been determined.

The state is also planning to construct a roundabout at the intersection of U.S. 20A and Strayer, according to Ohio Department of Transportation District 2 Public Information Officer Kelsie Hoagland. 

“This is ODOT’s only roundabout project in Lucas County,” she said. “Currently we have the road closure set to begin in mid to late August and last through mid-October.”

During the meeting, trustees also:

-Welcomed members of the Anthony Wayne High School AP Government class, who led the pledge of allegiance in the dark, as the power was out during the first 10 minutes of the meeting.

-Approved the transfer of the township’s portion of Lucas County’s OneOhio Opioid Settlement Funds – about $1,900 over five years – back to the Lucas County Commissioners, as the township is unable to offer some of the specific programming required to use the funds.

-Discussed hiring Kristina White, a township resident, as an independent contractor to plan and execute a celebration for the township’s 175th anniversary next year. White is experienced in fundraising and event planning, and could raise enough funds to offset the cost of hiring her as an independent contractor, Hampton said. Trustees delayed a vote until Trustee Barbara Lang received the details in writing.

-Approved the retirement of part-time firefighter/paramedic Colin Wedge.

-Approved hiring Jana Schultz and Michelle Case to teach Safety Township, at a rate of $60 per day per session.

-Accepted a bid of $285,950 to purchase self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) equipment and accessories. A grant will cover all but $1,500 of the cost.

-Heard that a resident was asking about accessibility in the voting precinct at the Monclova Community Center. Fiscal Officer Gavin Pike said he is seeking a list of precincts and other details from the Lucas County Board of Elections.

-Discussed the list of 24 subdivisions that are not currently under the county’s ditch petition. Road Superintendent Doug Holland has assessed each area and made a list of priority ditches. Trustees agreed to move forward with adding these to the county ditch petition – a process that will involve public hearings at the county. Trustee Chuck Hoecherl said he would like to see a hearing held after 5 p.m. in the township in order to accommodate all residents.

-Learned that the township Zoning Commission will consider the four text amendments recommended by Zoning Administrator Eric Wagner and the Lucas County Planning Commission – ones to strengthen language governing data centers – on Tuesday, May 25 at 5:30 p.m. The commissioners will make a recommendation to the trustees, who will set a public hearing later this summer. In the meantime, trustees are keeping an eye on Waterville Township’s progress in adding an M-3 zoning category for data centers, and may consider that as an option for Monclova Township.

-Heard Holland say that installation of windscreens and sound barriers around the pickleball courts at Keener Park will take place after the concrete work is done by Dotson. The courts will be closed for about 10 days during construction. The playground equipment is ordered and will arrive soon for installation at Keener Park. A columbarium at Roth Cemetery is under construction, and Holland already has several people on a waiting list.

-Heard that the fire department had 176 calls in April – putting the department on track to near 2,300 calls for 2026.

-Listened to residents Risa Sindel and Lyn Cox detail their expectations of elected officials in representing them when it comes to protecting citizens from data centers and other large developments.

-Heard that the phone system is updated and needs to be upgraded. Hampton approved an upgrade cost of $1,088 and a device license of $640.

-Learned that Wagner received a complaint about a Mill Ridge Rd. home being used as an Airbnb. Wagner spoke to an attorney representing the property owner, explaining that using the home violates the zoning code.

-Heard that Wagner attended a meeting about the future Walden subdivision, which will span both Monclova and Waterville townships. Plans call for construction to begin in Waterville Township first. All construction and traffic will access the site from Kacie Lane in Coventry Glen. Road infrastructure work will begin later this summer, with a final plat submitted for approval in early fall.

Monroe Superstore celebrates 60th anniversary on May 26

By
Press Release
-
0
The beginnings of Monroe Dodge Superstore took root when the late Ralph Mahalak Sr. opened the dealership in 1966, opening a 10-car lot on W. Front St. that eventually grew into a thriving six-dealership enterprise. (Courtesy photo)

MONROE, MICH. – To many in Monroe and beyond, the Mahalak name is synonymous with car dealerships, service and getting a good deal on a Dodge Ram, Jeep, Chrysler,  or used vehicle.

But anyone who knows Ralph Mahalak Jr. will say he is much more than a business owner; he is an entrepreneur who is dedicated to his community, and his generosity toward community organizations knows no bounds.

“He never says no,” said Mike Gaynier, who has known Mr. Mahalak for 36 years. “If you come to [me] with a problem or a proposal, no matter how complicated it is, I never say no. Ralph is the same way.”

The man many know as the “Low Payment King” is marking 60 years in the business this month with a grand celebration at the Monroe dealership at 15160 S. Monroe St. where Mr. Mahalak took over operations in 1987.

The celebration is the epitome of a life dedicated to the auto industry and the communities they serve.

“To say we’re proud would be an understatement,” Mr. Mahalak said. “We’re celebrating anniversaries all year long.”

The beginnings of Monroe Dodge Superstore took root when the late Ralph Mahalak Sr. opened the dealership in 1966, opening a 10-car lot on W. Front St. that eventually grew into a thriving six-dealership enterprise. The senior Mahalak died at the age of 77 in 2017.

“He was a helluva man and a great car guy,” Mr. Mahalak Jr., the oldest of five, told The Monroe News in 2017. “Everybody loved my dad. Tons of people got their first real job from my dad.”

Ralph Mahalak Jr., the owner of Monroe Dodge Superstore. (Courtesy photo)

Mr. Mahalak, well-known for his friendly demeanor, constant smile and kindness, continued that legacy with his dedication to the communities that are home to the Mahalak dealerships. He and his siblings run successful stores in Monroe as well as Defiance and Shelby in Ohio and three others in Central Florida: Posner Park, Winter Haven and Lake Wales.

His fairness and kindness equates to a loyal and vast array of customers, many of whom are among generations of car lovers who go nowhere else for their vehicle purchases or service.

“Ralph’s been a business adviser for many years for me and my own business,” Brian Reicker, owner of Tim Horton’s in Monroe and a 26-year customer, told the Toledo Blade. “Ralph’s been a really good friend for a long time. He’s very helpful. He sells products that I’m happy with.”

Like most business owners, especially in the auto industry, Mr. Mahalak and his family have endured economic downturns and instability.  When Chrysler filed for bankruptcy during tough times, Mr. Mahalak was proud that he never laid anyone off or paid anyone less.

Many of those employees reciprocated that loyalty, especially during the financial crisis in 2009.

“They pulled together just like a real team, and it was just really one of the proudest moments of my career,” Mr. Mahalak said. “There [are] a lot of proud moments in the 60-year career of the store.”

His entrepreneurship reaches many organizations, including raising funds for cancer research through the superstore’s annual 18 Aces to Conquer Cancer golf outing. His financial support also includes the Heart of the Badge scholarship, which helps students become first responders, and the Allies in Monroe program at Monroe schools.

The dealership will host a 60th anniversary celebration for clients and vendors at the Monroe location from 4:26 p.m. to 7:26 p.m., in honor of the anniversary date, on Tuesday, May 26. The celebration will feature a DJ, food, a photo booth, and other activities.

Waterville Primary earns prestigious 5-year STEAM re-designation 

By
Press Release
-
0
Waterville Primary School students explore the land lab behind the school - one of several programs that incorporate STEAM. (Photo courtesy of Anthony Wayne Local Schools)

WATERVILLE – Waterville Primary School has been officially re-designated as an Ohio STEAM School by the Ohio STEM Learning Network (OSLN) for an additional five-year term. This honor follows a rigorous evaluation process, site visit and a final vote by the Ohio STEM Committee.

First awarded in April 2019, this renewed designation indicates that Waterville Primary continues to lead the way in integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) into the everyday learning experience of its kindergarten through fourth-grade students.

Waterville Primary School’s Ohio STEAM School designation has been renewed for five years – affirming the schools efforts to integrate science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics into everyday learning. (Photo courtesy of Anthony Wayne Local Schools)

The re-designation process culminated in a comprehensive site visit on Jan. 28, with evaluators noting that Waterville Primary creates a “STEAM for all” environment. The school was specifically commended for:

• Portrait of a General: A set of core values that emphasizes critical thinking, empathy, adaptability and flexibility, communication and collaboration, and a learner’s mindset.

• Equitable Access: The school is committed to providing a high-quality education to all students across various racial, socioeconomic and disability demographics.

• Community Partnerships: Strong ties with Bowling Green State University, the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, the Toledo Museum of Art and Xcite Learning.

The OSLN review team highlighted Waterville’s commitment to Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and its direct instruction on the seven-step engineering design cycle (Ask, Imagine, Plan, Create, Test, Improve, Share). 

Notable projects recognized during the evaluation include:

• Engineering & Science: The K-4 “Soil, Water, and Air” explorations and second-grade and fourth grade “Balloons Over Broadway” design challenges.

• Technology & Art: Fourth-grade “Mini-Golf Challenges” and “Ozobot-animated mini-movies” created with the students as videographers.

• Community Impact: Designing pollinator-friendly improvements for the Land Lab with Toledo GROWS and presenting severe-weather safety kits at a “Weather News Expo.”

“I am so incredibly excited and proud of our entire team of educators, staff, students and families,” said Waterville Primary Principal Dr. Jamie Hollinger. “This recognizes our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional STEAM exploration, access, and opportunities that prepare our students for success long after they leave our learning environment.”

About the Ohio STEM Committee

The Ohio STEM Committee is a panel of policymakers, agency directors and business leaders. The STEAM Designation process recognizes schools for serving as an effective place for STEAM learning and invites the school into the statewide Ohio STEM Learning Network, a partnership between the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce and Battelle.

Anthony Wayne food service prepares for changing guidelines

By
Karen Gerhardinger
-
0
Enjoying lunch at Whitehouse Primary School are first-graders (from left) Cora Young, Paisley Franklin and Ava Betts. The district's food service director is gearing up for major changes in the school lunch menus to reflect a new food pyramid. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

Creating menus that meet federal nutrition guidelines, accommodate dietary needs and still appeal to students is like putting together a jigsaw puzzle, Food Service Director Megan Menchaca told the Anthony Wayne Board of Education during its May 11 meeting.

But with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) change in the food pyramid and expected changes to sodium and sugar levels, Menchaca expects meal planning to get even more challenging.

“Every few years, they adjust the sodium and sugar. I have the feeling bigger changes are coming,” Menchaca said. “Right now, we’re funded by the USDA and have to follow their rules to get their money.”

For the 2027-28 school year, the sodium levels will need to drop below 1 gram – the same as a cardiac patient would be prescribed. Sugar needs to be lowered to 10 percent of weekly calories. The flipped food pyramid has protein and vegetables occupying the largest section, focusing on nutrient-dense foods like meats, eggs, nuts and seafood, with less ultra-processed foods. Full-fat dairy and healthy fats are now preferred over low-fat alternatives. And grains are now a lower priority. 

The rules on milk changed as well. Before, only 1 percent plain white or fat-free flavored milk were allowed, in order to meet lower sugar requirements. In January, she learned that schools can serve full-fat plain white milk, but didn’t switch. 

“Are the manufacturers going to forego flavored milk? I would rather my kid drink 7 grams of sugar to get the calcium and vitamin D from milk,” she said. 

The district started offering free breakfasts in all buildings this year, and those usually feature two servings of whole grains. Now those breakfast meals will need to include protein.

To meet these changing guidelines, schools will rely on manufacturers like Tyson, Pepsi and Nabisco, which have dedicated lines for school meals. Manufacturers will need to change their recipes, production lines and packaging to reflect new ingredients and to alert consumers of possible allergies.

Each meal takes about 90 minutes to heat and serve. If the changes require a return to scratch cooking,  that would likely require more staff, training and equipment.

When coming up with menus, Menchaca looks at what is available and the different calorie minimums and maximums. She can’t serve two starches two days in a row. And meals need to incorporate dark greens, red and other vegetables. Texture and color also factor into meals.

“The trick is in finding popularity with kids’ palettes. It does no good to serve healthy foods if kids aren’t going to eat it,” she said. 

Often she meets with groups of students to get input on the menu. Sushi, steak and Nutella are among the recommendations.

“Steak. That’s cute, but I have a budget to follow,” she laughed, noting that meals are $3.25 per student. 

Instead, she can offer turkey dogs. This year at the high school, she offered an ala carte sushi bar that was popular.

“School meal planning is challenging. The contrast from the USDA to what’s coming down the pipeline will make it harder. Will the manufacturers be able to comply? How long will it take? Will the cafeteria be able to manage the changes? We will do our best to follow the USDA guidelines. We strive to make everything nutritionally appropriate and serve things kids like,” she said.

During the meeting, the board also:

The Anthony Wayne Board of Education recognized lead athletic trainer Noelle Matson (center) along with team doctors Dr. Ralph Whalen (left) and Dr. Robert Kose. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

-Presented certificates of appreciation to athletics team doctors Ralph Whalen and Robert Kose, and Lead Athletic Trainer Noelle Matson, for ensuring the health and safety of student-athletes. Dr. Whalen is a 1965 AW graduate and retired vascular surgeon who has served as a team physician since 1992.

Dr. Kose was a pulmonary and critical care medicine physician from 1982-2020 and is now the president of Hospice of Northwest Ohio. He has served as team physician since 1983.

Matson is finishing up her 15th year as the athletic trainer, and will start the next school year as the supervising lead athletic trainer at ProMedica’s Sports Medicine Institute. In that role, she will oversee 15-20 athletic trainers, make site visits, work contracts, organize events, do care coordination and attend leadership meetings. She plans to be on the AW campus next year to transition the new athletic trainer. 

-Approved a $35,000 contract with Kleinfelder to design the junior high kitchen UV replacement project.

-Heard that a waterline broke under the Waterville Primary School parking lot on May 11. City crews made repairs later that evening.

-Heard an update from Director of Human Resources Brad Contat on the district’s wellness program, which promotes social, emotional, physical and intellectual well-being through events and services. 

-Approved the retirements of Waterville teacher Lisa Ernsthausen, high school engineer Steve Trompeter and special education aide Cynthia Meyers. The board also approved the resignations of special education aides Cheyenne Crawford and Kristen Stamm; intervention specialist Scott Harrold; fifth grade teacher Taylor Pawliski; certified occupational therapist assistant Pam Weideman; and Director of Human Resources Brad Contat.

-Approved student handbooks and school and athletic fees. With the pay to participate plan for athletics, the fees are $125 per sport for the first two sports, with no charge for additional sports in the high school, and $80 per sport for the first two sports in the junior high.

Meagan Conroy is the new assistant treasurer for Anthony Wayne Local Schools. (AWFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

-Approved a list of 339 seniors for graduation on Saturday, May 23 at Bowling Green State University’s Stroh Center.

-Welcomed new Assistant Treasurer Meagan Conroy, who brings experience from Rossford Schools and as an assistant auditor with the Auditor of State’s office. The board also approved the hiring of bus aide Haley Voigt, food service worker Lisa Herald, high school science teacher Ellie Fleisher, fifth grade teacher Kaylee Prall and Whitehouse Intervention Specialist Molly Rutkowski. Several summer workers were also approved for extended school year programs and transportation.

The next regular board of education meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 10 at 8 a.m.

1...192021...304Page 20 of 304