Free, non-partisan assistance from Ride to the Polls
TOLEDO – One of the most fundamental requirements for voting is being able to get to your polling place. If you don’t have a vehicle, if you don’t live close to public transportation or if you don’t have access to transportation services (such as Lyft or Uber), you are much less likely to be able to vote.
It’s a problem that is much more prevalent than one might think.
“We’ve found that it is one of the top two reasons in the Toledo area for not voting (along with not having proper identification),” explained Basia Lynn, a participant in the Ride to the Polls program sponsored by Jobs with Justice (JwJ). “And our situation here in Toledo is about the same as around the country.”
Jobs with Justice is a grassroots volunteer organization committed to worker justice. Toledo JwJ is one of 40 chartered members of the National Jobs with Justice Network and National Interfaith Worker Justice Coalition. Since 2002, Toledo JwJ has provided its Ride to the Polls program for general elections in Toledo; since 2012, Ride to the Polls has been available every year.
Its 2025 program began October 4 and will run through the Nov. 4 general election (including early voting and Election Day voting).
“I really appreciate this service. The people are fantastic, and it was very easy to sign up,” said Gary Kirian, who used Ride to the Polls in the 2024 national election and is registered to be picked up again for this year’s election.
Ride to the Polls is available for voters throughout Lucas County and northern Wood County, and signing up is as simple as calling 419VOTE NOW (419.868.3669), according to Bob Lynn, secretary with Toledo JwJ (and Basia’s husband).
When you reach the call center, you’ll provide your contact information, and the volunteer will locate your voting precinct. They’ll also talk with you about any special needs you have that may impact your voting, such as movement or vision problems, and the driver will be able to make arrangements once you arrive at your polling place.
“When our drivers pick you up, they’ll make sure you have your identification materials with you, and the driver will have precinct information and other details that will be necessary,” Bob Lynn said. He has an average of 25 to 50 Ride to the Polls drivers who will be assigned from their homes or from their base at the Monroe Street United Methodist Church. If voters need assistance with the process (reading the ballots, getting into the polling place, etc.), they can bring someone, or the driver can assist. Drivers are trained to carry out any voting-related procedures, including providing assistance to voters in the booth and arranging for poll watcher involvement.
Ride to the Polls drivers are also very accommodating.
“We pick up voters wherever they are: from home or work, rehab or even the hospital,” said Basia Lynn. “Some voters want more help, while others want us to just drop them off to vote, and then pick them up to go home.”
Kirian has lived in west Toledo since 2012 and had previously worked as an engineer. “I used to drive all over the U.S. for my work. Now it’s difficult to be without my freedom,” he said.
In 2024, he and his son used the Ride to the Polls program. “The driver who picked us up was great,” he said. “He waited while we voted and then took us home. It’s very important to me to be able to vote.”
Most important, Basia said, is that voters know that Ride to the Polls is non-partisan and free.
“We don’t care what your politics are; we just want you to vote. People are so happy to participate and say they didn’t know there was someone who could help. Election Day is one of my favorite days of the year.”
Voters can contact Ride to the Polls by calling 419-868-3669 (419 VOTE NOW) or by email at [email protected]. Learn more about this program at Toledo Jobs with Justice. Toledo JwJ is also welcoming drivers to participate, currently and through Election Day (Nov. 4), by using the same contact information.
The Anthony Wayne Board of Education including (from left) president Kyle Miller, Jeff Baden, Lindsay Hoipkemier, Mike Stamm and Shellie McKnight, listen as assistant superintendent Kevin Pfefferle recognizes high school art and technology teacher Bryan DeKay as one of three staff members of the year. (TFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)
Board asked to refrain from religious and political speech
ANTHONY WAYNE – In the month since Anthony Wayne Board of Education member Shellie McKnight was censured by her peers for an emoji reaction to a Facebook posting about Charlie Kirk, the district and individual board members have received dozens of emails, calls and text messages about that decision – both pro and con.
During the Oct. 15 regular board meeting, three community members addressed the board to cite concerns about board member Mike Stamm‘s public prayer during the Sept. 15 meeting, his and board member Lindsay Hoipkemier‘s use of Christian references in their board email signatures, and about a perceived double standard for board members when it comes to accountability.
Sarah and David Fournier spoke to the Anthony Wayne Board of Education on Oct. 13, sharing concerns about some board members sharing their political and religious beliefs. (TFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)
Whitehouse residents and parents David and Sarah Fournier called out the board for their actions both in the September meeting and in online Facebook discussions.
“It’s become clear to me that I can no longer stand on the sidelines while this board’s members make a public spectacle of themselves and embarrass our district,” David Fournier said, citing what he called the board’s “partisan excoriation” of McKnight – a move he said is an example of a double standard.
He specifically noted that Hoipkemier’s post on the Anthony Wayne Politics and Opinions Facebook page doesn’t square up with her Christian faith, which he said calls for followers to build up, not enflame; to correct in private before shaming in public; to speak in ways that give grace; and to show the fruits of the spirit, including gentleness, self-control and peace.
“Mobilizing an online pile-on flies in the face of those precepts,” David Fournier said.
He also noted that Stamm’s prayer from the dais and his promotion of Turning Point USA (the late Charlie Kirk’s organization) both raise Establishment Clause and policy concerns. He added that Stamm’s refusal to abide by the same standards of online conduct that were applied to McKnight concerns him.
“The board’s actions this past month have deeply damaged the remaining members’ credibility and proven that they cannot be trusted to represent the entire community in a non-partisan, unbiased manner,” David Fournier said.
Bill Tucholski echoed those sentiments, saying that if the board looks the other way and not hold all board members to the same standards, then it’s sending a message to the hundreds of community members whose values and views don’t align with the board members.
Several community members submitted complaints to the Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF), which on Oct. 8 sent a letter to the board asking that “out of respect for the First Amendment of the United States Constitution and the religious diversity of the Anthony Wayne Local Schools community” that the board ensure its members do not include unconstitutional prayer in its meetings and do not include sectarian references in their email signatures for their official district communications. That letter from FFRF is being reviewed by legal counsel, said board president Kyle Miller.
During the board comments section, Hoipkemier explained that emotions were running high in the weeks following Kirk’s death, and that she acted on those emotions during a period of grief, posting something that caused other people’s emotions to run high as well.
“I regret doing so and am sincerely sorry to those it negatively affected and ask for your forgiveness,” she said.
In the past month, Hoipkemier said she’s received emails regarding Stamm’s impromptu prayer and both board members’ faith-based references in email signatures, and she understands how these could be “misconstrued as unconstitutional.”
After researching, Hoipkemier said she doesn’t feel that either the prayer or faith-based email signatures are an infraction of the Establishment Clause, because neither signal that the government is trying to establish an official religion. Instead, she believes these actions reflect the freedom and privilege of the Free Exercise Clause, which protects and individual’s right to practice their religion without government interference.
“To expect any elected official to suppress their beliefs while serving is unrealistic, unwise and unconstitutional. I understand and respect that not everyone shares my faith, but this doesn’t require my silence,” she said, adding that she supports every student, regardless of background, belief or faith.
Stamm quoted Kirk, noting that when people don’t discuss their differences, it can lead to tension and violence. While he understands the concerns voiced by residents, Stamm said he will continue to pray for the students, staff and leaders – only he’ll do it outside of the board meetings.
David Fournier also called out board president Miller, who he said failed to enforce board policy by allowing “repetitive, hostile comments to be directed at McKnight” during the Sept. 15 meeting, and asked senior board member Jeff Baden to use his voice to temper his colleagues’ baser instincts and to direct them toward more productive business.
Serving on the board takes great responsibility and commitment to the district, Baden said.
“We have strong opinions and different directions at times, but we are not divided. Most of us are passionate about doing the right thing for the kids and the school and the community, and that is the common ground we aim to find and move forward,” Baden said.
Superintendent Kevin Herman has arranged for the state board of education to host a training session for the board, to go over best practices.
“Different perspectives should make us stronger as a board,” Herman said, adding that it’s important to disagree with dignity. “My hope is that as we work through all of this that we keep the focus on our students.”
McKnight, who announced during a special Sept. 18 meeting that she would step down at the end of the year – for personal reasons not related to the censure – said she has received dozens of comments from residents over the past month. She likened the community to a hibernating bear that’s been rudely awakened by what she calls the “overreaction” by the board. She said she hopes that her replacement will represent the entire community.
An application for board member candidates to fill the remaining two years of McKnight’s term is posted at anthonywayneschools.org. Applications are due Monday, Nov. 3. The board will review these applications and hold interviews for top finalists between Nov. 21 and the Dec. 8 meeting.
Leah Wuescher asked about the metrics that will be used for the candidates, and whether the interviews will be held in public. The district later confirmed that the interviews will be held in executive session.
During the meeting, the board also:
-Congratulated the district’s staff members of the year, including fifth grade teacher Mary Dressel, art and technology teacher Bryan DeKay and Monclova secretary Claudine Strayer.
-Heard Monclova resident Ryan Bauman asked the board to consider creating a subcommittee of community members to serve as the “eyes and ears” to attend area council meetings in order to give a seat at the table to the district when these community leaders make decisions on major developments, such as data centers, that would impact the district.
Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) members presented the results of the 2025 international conference, including several gold and silver awards. Pictured are, back row (from left) junior high advisor Kay-Lynne Schaller, Grant Hubley, Diana Beach, Skyler Smelley, Madeline Johnston and Aradhya Muthumula and, front row, Karter Rinker, Sophie Canos and Karis Doro. Not pictured is Bryn Hubbard. (TFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)
-Congratulated Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) members for their excellence in representing the district during the international conference in July, bringing home several top awards. FCCLA is an extracurricular program offered to students taking Penta Career Center Family and Consumer Sciences classes at the junior high and high school.
-Listened to Jim Conner, director of teaching and learning, outline the state report card rankings. Factors include state and end-of-course tests, achievement, progress, gap closing, graduation rates, early literacy and after-graduation readiness. The district ranked 30th out of more than 600 for its performance index, and Whitehouse Primary School placed in the top 1 percent.
-Approved updates to board policies to keep up with changes in the law, including those outlined in Ohio House Bill 96. High school principal Jon Burke shared how a ban on cell phone use has resulted in students reading books in the media center or playing board games in the cafeteria or study hall. While some challenges remain with curbing cell phone use in those areas, implementing the ban has been pretty smooth, Burke said.
-Thanked two employees who plan to retire in 2026: Monclova cook Toni Baldwin and junior high teacher Jim Bolone.
TOLEDO– As the leaves begin to turn and the crisp autumn air sets in, the Toledo Zoo transforms into a vibrant celebration of fall with its annual Harvest Fest, now in its fourth year. Running the entire month of October, the event is a joyful blend of giant animal shaped pumpkin displays, colorful mums, seasonal food, and fall festivities, all set against the stunning backdrop of one of the nation’s most beloved zoos.
A pumpkin rendering of an anglerfish. (TFP photo by Gaven Hafner)
“It’s so gorgeous. It’s so amazing,” says Jen Brassil, director of PR and communications events at the Toledo Zoo. “We have giant pumpkin displays and all kinds of beautiful fall flowers throughout our zoo grounds. And every year we add more displays.”
This year is extra special as the zoo marks its 125th anniversary alongside the 10-year celebration of the renovated aquarium. The event pays homage to both milestones with new zoo-themed pumpkin installations, including a large 125th anniversary display, pumpkin-shaped angler fish, and a wild prairie scene highlighting the zoo’s conservation mission.
The Toledo Zoo is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. (TFP photo by Gaven Hafner)
“We just kind of go along with the theme,” Brassil explains, “and it’s a great celebration of our own 125 years and Harvest Fest at the same time.”
The creative force behind many of the displays is Ice Creations, a local company based in Napoleon known for their intricate ice carvings. Each year, they bring the same level of artistry to the pumpkins as they do to the ice.
“They’re a wonderful local partner to work with,” Brassil says. “Anytime I throw an idea at them: ‘Yep, we can do it; we’ll make it happen.’ So, they’re great to work with.”
(TFP photo by Gaven Hafner)
Alongside the pumpkin displays, the zoo has been filled with various colorful mums to add to the festive vibes. “We have our horticulture team that comes in, and they work with a lot of local greenery and greenhouses to get all the mums,” says Brassil. “And then we order them months in advance.”
Harvest Fest isn’t just about the visuals; it’s a feast for the taste buds too. Nick Axe, assistant director of food service, says this year features brand new indulgences like three different loaded mac-and-cheese variations.
“The one we took the biggest swing [with] was the loaded sweet potato mac andcheese,” Axe says. “So that’s got bacon, candied nuts, parmesan cheese and then maple syrup on it, on top of the white cheddar mac and cheese and then the sweet potato… and it’s just the sweet and the savory. It’s fantastic. Easily my favorite.”
Other new items this year include caramel apple fudge, apple nachos, along with the buffalo chicken mac and cheese, pulled pork mac and cheese, and sweet potato mac and cheese.
Cynthia Barr, a bird keeper at the Toledo Zoo, watches over 3 year old flamingos Obi Wan and Leia (TFP photo by Gaven Hafner)
“We take a lot of time and energy to make sure what we’re presenting is excellent,” Axe says. “That’s probably the funnest thing for me, is watching people enjoy it and that work that we did on the front end, seeing it come to fruition. I really enjoy that.”
With over 50,000 to 80,000 guests expected throughout October, the zoo has tailored the experience for everyone. From the Little Boo and Pumpkin Path events for kids, to tasting various craft brews at Zootober Fest for adults, to Senior Discovery Days offering free admission and special activities for visitors 60 and up, there’s something for every generation.
“I think it’s just one of those Toledo traditions that you have to hit up the Toledo Zoo, and then you share it with your family from each generation to come,” Brassil says. “It’s just a beautiful time to visit the zoo.”
Rosie the sloth gets her picture taken. (TFP photo by Gaven Hafner)
Even the animals get in on the fun with the Pumpkin Stomp and Chomp event on Oct. 25, where animals interact with pumpkins in their exhibits often stomping, chomping, or even sniffing out species-appropriate treats hidden inside.
“It’s really fun, especially the elephants,” says Brassil. “They actually do stomp and chomp, and I mean they’ll just stomp them and pick them right up and eat them whole.”
For many staff members, the joy of Harvest Fest lies in watching visitors react to everything. Cynthia Barr, a bird keeper at the zoo, looks forward to the festival each year.
“I really like the Harvest Fest because I like to take pictures in front of the flowers,” Barr shares. “Every year I bring my family, my daughter, and we take pictures, and it just looks so pretty.”
With extended hours on Thursdays and Fridays, guests can now experience the displays glowing with lights all across the zoo grounds, creating even more photo opportunities with the family.
Whether it is pumpkin displays, fall flavors, or festive family memories, the Toledo Zoo’s Harvest Fest is a great fall tradition to add to this month’s activity bucket list.
SWANTON TOWNSHIP – Two candidates are vying for the unexpired term of fiscal officer in Swanton Township: Mindy Curry and Sandy Speiker. Below are their profiles in alphabetical order.
Mindy Curry
Mindy Curry
Curry is running alongside two trustee candidates – Bill Anderson and Matt Beil – with the slogan ABC (Anderson, Beil and Curry).
“We’re united by a shared commitment to kindness, honesty, integrity and community-focused service,” Curry said.
Curry has 32 years of accounting experience, including 26 years as an office manager. She is skilled in payroll, taxes, financial reporting and benefits administration, as well as the accurate and transparent management of public funds. Her status as a certified notary public reflects her attention to detail and commitment to accountability, Curry said.
Before moving to Swanton Township, Curry served eight years on Whitehouse Village Council.
“I bring a solid track record of ethical leadership, collaboration and responsive service – values that I will bring to the fiscal officer role to benefit all residents,” she said. “I’m passionate about bringing accuracy, transparency, professionalism and kindness to this vital role. Every dollar matters, and every resident deserves to know how it’s spent.”
In addition to responsible stewardship of public funds, Curry’s priorities as fiscal officer include: providing clear agendas and detailed meeting minutes; timely responses to public records requests; a friendly, respectful environment; encouraging collaboration that reflects residents’ needs; supporting community well-being and local services; reducing outside legal costs; and welcoming resident involvement and open communication.
“Swanton Township stands at an important crossroads. Residents are calling for greater transparency, prudent fiscal management and increased collaboration with neighboring communities. There is also a clear demand for more open and accessible township meetings, including the possibility of live streaming to increase participation,” she said. “Today, some residents feel marginalized for simply wanting to engage with local government, and it is crucial to foster a culture where everyone feels welcome and heard. Meeting these challenges is an opportunity to restore public trust, update our practices, and create a township government that is truly responsive, inclusive and accountable.”
Every resident deserves a government that listens and responds with respect and kindness, she said.
“If elected, my priority will be to maintain open lines of communication—ensuring that residents not only receive timely updates but have meaningful opportunities to share their views and participate in decision-making,” she said.
Curry said she supports access to public records and the adoption of Ohio Checkbook, a free and easy-to-use state-run website where residents can view township spending 24/7. She also plans to implement having meetings live streamed to make the township accessible to all. Prompt responses to calls and emails will be standard practice, and all concerns will be met with respect and genuine consideration, she said.
“The voices, questions and opinions of our residents belong at the center of our township,” Curry said.
An Anthony Wayne High School graduate, Curry spent most of her life in Whitehouse and is committed to the region. She moved to Swanton Township to be with her partner, Darrin, and their blended family.
Sandy Speiker
Sandy Speiker
As the Swanton Township fiscal officer, Speiker is busy working with state auditors on the 2023-24 audit, streamlining electronic reporting and payment functions, and keeping the website up to date with minutes and special announcements.
“I act as a fiduciary, being responsible for managing public funds in the best interest of township residents and keeping accurate, timely records,” said Speiker, who was appointed July 22 to fill a vacancy created after the unexpected death of longtime fiscal officer Peggy Michael. “If elected, I will continue to make sure expenses align with the township’s goals and the expenditures are in compliance with applicable laws.”
Speiker describes herself as tech-savvy, with the background needed to keep tasks such as accounting, purchasing, reporting, budget allocation, payables and payroll flowing smoothly and accurately. She also plans to revamp the township website to make it more attractive and user friendly.
This isn’t Speiker’s first involvement in township fiscal responsibilities. From 2006-2008, she served as fiscal officer Bill Cook’s assistant until he retired.
“I was in charge of recording and preparing meeting minutes, preparing the agenda and running the meetings for Swanton Township,” she said.
While she has a degree in medical transcription, her career has included advertising administrator and co-op coordinator for Bostwick-Braun Company, where she earned the Innovator Award for an advertising program she created. In that role, she handled co-op advertising dollars and designed fliers and newsletters.
In the early 2000s, Speiker served as administrative assistant to the fiscal officer and co-cemetery sexton for Springfield Township. She organized and created a database of the graves in Springfield Township Cemetery, identifying 44 Civil War graves and ordering plaques and tombstones through the Veteran’s Administration at no charge to the township. She also created a quarterly newsletter, created and maintained the township’s first website and was in charge of accounts receivable, hall rentals and customer service to township residents.
In 2017, after 13 years, she retired Rossford Exempted Village School District, where she served as high school clerk/cashier and purchasing agent for the high school and junior high school.
“I was in charge of preparing yearly budgets for the high school and maintaining them throughout the school year as well as collecting, accounting and recording all monies brought into the high school through student fees, athletics, club fundraisers, etc.,” she said. “I coordinated graduation – preparing diplomas, renting our venue, preparing the graduation program. I also was freshman class advisor and sophomore class co-advisor.”
A 46-year resident of the township, Speiker said she thinks the issue of the village of Swanton annexing township properties is a concern. Currently, Lucas County is considering an annexation petition by AGS LLC to annex two Scott Road parcels totaling 133 acres into the village. Another concern is Metroparks buying up land in the township, she said.
“However, these concerns would fall to the trustees to deal with, not the fiscal officer,” she noted.
Lucas County Commissioners Pete Gerken, Lisa Sobecki and Anita Lopez during a Lucas County Commissioners meeting at 1 Government Center in Toledo on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025. (TFP Photo by Stephen Zenner)
Hearing
1. The first agenda item for Lucas County Commissioners’ meeting on Sept. 23 was a public hearing to consider the sale of healthcare facilities revenue refunding and improvement bonds.
No one showed up to the hearing, and commissioners moved to item two.
Commissioners
2. Item two passed the initiative to issue the improvement bonds referred to in the hearing of item one.
Presentation
3. The employee charitable giving campaign began a week before the commissioners’ meeting and ended on Oct. 8.
Last year, the campaign raised $36,000+ in charitable giving from Lucas County employees for The United Way, and altogether, within the whole county, the initiative raised around $50,000 last year.
Pam Grimshaw from The United Way, shared the campaign partners with EarthShare and Creating Healthier Communities. Any of these nonprofits could be designated for giving.
Commissioners
4. Commissioners unanimously reappointed Jeffrey Kershaw, Elizabeth Baird and Natalie Jackson to the Lucas County Public Defender Commission. These positions are for four years and expire on July 31, 2029.
County Engineer
Lucas County Engineer Mike Pniewski then brought items 5-9 before the commissioners.
Item 5. authorized the county to apply for a loan from the state of Ohio for money to fund the round-a-bout project on Albon Road. This took the form of a revision to resolution 2025-598.
Item 6. approved a memo to make sure there was an understanding between the county engineer and the Toledo Metropolitan Council of Governments for the public education in support of a separate storm sewer system (MS4) permit.
Crimson Hollow Plat 11 plans. The plat was approved in item 7. of the LCC agenda. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)
7. Approved the final plat for Crimson Hollow plat 11, in Monclova and Waterville.
8. Approved the final plat and county escrow agreements instead of performance bonds for village on the green plat two, for Waterville Township.
9. Approved a contract for the right of entry for the Providence-Neapolis-Swanton Road & Archbold-Whitehouse Road Roundabout Project, PID 116886.
Department of Engagement
Crystal Harris Darnell, the director of engagement for Lucas County Board of Commissioners. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)
10. Lucas County supported an initiative for an enhanced library card.
The Director of engagement for Lucas County Board of Commissioners, Crystal Harris Darnell, explained the initiative alongside Director of Government Relations and Advocacy for the Toledo Lucas County Public Library, Lucas Camuso-Stall.
“It’s a form of ID for those that may have barriers of getting, let’s say, their birth certificate or social security card,” Harris Darnell said. With this card, the county hopes people without state or federal identification will be able to access resources within the community.
“You can’t vote with it. You can’t drive with it. However, it does allow you access to services in our community that allow them to begin to rebuild your life,” Harris Darnell said.
The card is planned to launch in the first quarter of 2026 at the Main Library in downtown Toledo.
“It will still act as a working library card, but present other identifiable information, so we’ll place a photo, address, digital signature and other identifiable information that will help folks access important services in the community,” Camuso-Stall said.
“This is just another way, another tool, another resource to our community members, just to simply show who they are and be able to access really good services that will improve their lives.”
Lucas Camuso-Stall, the director of government relations and advocacy for the Toledo Lucas County Public Library, speaks about the new pilot program for enhanced library cards. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)
This is the beginning of a three-year pilot program. The IDs themselves will expire after five years, and Harris Darnell cited Dayton as another city where this kind of identification was working well for their community.
“This is to fill in that gap as we’re working with them to get a state or federal issue ID,” she said.
As far as information on hand at the Library Camuso-Stall said library staff would do enough to confirm the identity of those looking for an enhanced library card, but would not hold or retain sensitive information at the library.
Facilities
11. Approved the county for professional design services for the restoration of the roof at the Lucas County Correction Center located at 1622 Spielbusch Avenue.
Office of Management and Budget
12. Approved appropriation resolutions for the board of elections and solid waste for Monclova and Jerusalem Townships.
Items 13 through 16 received permission to create accounts to receive grants for those specific county programs.
13. Created a pre-award advance account for Juvenile Court’s Truancy Mediation Program
14. Created a pre-award advance account for Juvenile Court’s Case Management Program
15. Created a pre-award advance account for Prosecutor’s Office Victim Assistance Program for Victims of Crime Act
16. Created a pre-award advance account for the Prosecutor’s Office Victim Assistance Program for State Victims Assistance Act.
Administration
17. Approved an amendment to the guaranteed maximum Price #5 (GMP-5) with Rudolph-Libbe Inc. of Walbridge, Ohio for Construction Management at Risk Services Related to the Construction of the New Canine Care and Control Facility Located at 1301 Monroe Street, Toledo, Ohio, 43604
This change was requested because of electrical power problems at the facility.
The change was a “no cost change” pushing the completion date back from May 22, 2025 to July 3, 2025.
Then Commissioners entered into Executive Session.
In this October 13, 2025 edition of Jaden Jefferson’s TFP The Weekend, he sits down with Toledo City Council At-Large write-in candidate, Emily Desmond. Desmond shares her hope for the future of Toledo, its neighborhoods and salient issues she wishes to advocate for.
Photo by AW Area Community Response Awareness Group (AW-CRAP)
ANTHONY WAYNE –Lyn Cox opened up a folder and extracted several maps of the Anthony Wayne area, pointing out to other Waterville-area residents the tracts of land just beyond Mill Creek subdivision’s southern boundary.
“If I had known this was in the background, I wouldn’t have put an offer in on our house,” said Dan Nonnemacher, who is moving into Mill Creek. “I don’t want to come out of my subdivision and see a data center.”
When Cox obtained, through a public records request, maps and pitch decks created by the Lucas County Department of Economic Development (LCDED) to show areas that have the land and infrastructure for a potential data center, she got concerned. She began sharing copies of the documents on her newly created Facebook page AW-CRAP (AW-Area Community Response Awareness Group), fueling questions, opinions and speculation.
“I started the Facebook page so people know that the county is targeting 1,000 acres in the Waterville area. It fundamentally changes everything,” Cox said, noting that property owners are being approached with offers of $125,000 to $200,000 per acre.
Cindy Celusta and Lyn Cox are among the Anthony Wayne-area residents seeking more information about proposals to attract data centers to the community. In response, the Lucas County Department of Economic Development plans to host a public information session. The meeting date has still not been announced. (TFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)
Last week, sitting around a picnic table with Nonnemacher, Cindy Celusta and Lisa Haberstock, Cox stated that the maps show not only potential building locations but the resources needed by a data center: a 36-inch Nexus gas transmission pipeline, electric transmission lines, water basins, proposed water and sewer lines, and a potential layout for energy centers near the Farnsworth Business Park on Waterville Monclova Road and along U.S. 24.
A data center’s potential impacts on water, electric rates, sound, lighting, vibrations and property values are among the group’s concerns.
“I’m pro-growth and pro-development. I’m anti-destroy-small-towns. What’s important to me is to preserve what is precious – what is special about small towns,” said Cox, who grew up in Waterville Township, moved away and returned for the small town charm.
She’s been sharing information from residents in other communities who have written about the downside of data centers, and pressing for more information from those leading the data center charge locally.
“I want to better understand the repercussions. I need to know more. I’m not against data centers. I’m just against the output,” said Nonnemacher, adding that it might be possible for a smaller facility in a less-dense area to reap the economic benefits without disturbing the community.
He also noted that Gov. Mike DeWine is pushing for more economic growth, and that includes data centers where they make sense. If he were in charge, Nonnemacher said he would put together a plan and get the questions out to the public and be prepared to address concerns.
And that’s exactly what LCDED director Matt Heyrman has been working on – a town hall meeting with experts sharing data centers’ potential impacts on electric and water, for example, and to answer community members’ questions.The details on that meeting have not yet been announced.
Heyrman and his staff, along with Regional Growth Partnership (RGP), have been working with Lucas County leaders, developers, landowners and communities to attract centers that hold data for multinational corporations like Google, Chat GPT or Meta.
“We’re targeting larger companies because they will make a more significant investment. That leads to more valuation and potential revenue for our community,” he said.
Attracting a data center is part of an overall strategy to diversify the economy so the county isn’t so reliant on manufacturing and distribution, said RGP executive vice president Gary Thompson. RGP focuses on attracting new business and industry to a 17-county northwest Ohio region. He envisions a healthy mix of manufacturing, construction, agriculture and technology so the economy is on sound footing and communities are able to bring in enough revenue to provide services such as police and fire.
“There is no data center today. There is a lot of concern about a secret plot. That’s not true,” Heyrman said. “What we are trying to do, together as communities, is start a dialogue to see if this is something we want – if it’s viable.”
The packet obtained by Cox was not meant for public distribution, Heyrman said. It was created to pitch the idea to potential customers and to show areas where all of the boxes are checked, Heyrman said, referring to the core needs of available land, access to water and power, correct zoning and a willing community.
“The packet is to show data center developers and users to gauge their interest in the region and show the potential,” Heyrman said. “We’re also working with communities about whether this could potentially happen. This is a community discussion…to find out if the community wants it and if the pros outweigh the cons. And then, if the data center wants us. The LCDED is the matchmaker – we match end users with communities that want them.”
Waterville Mayor Tim Pedro said he understands that the materials shared by Cox have alarmed some in the community, but that the LCDED had to start somewhere and put ideas on paper to move forward.
“These are just concepts. No one has come to the city with a plan to go through the zoning process. I think some folks got ahead of this and grabbed a nugget of information and ran with it,” he said.
As mayor, Pedro said he gets calls about all types of development opportunities, and these take time to flesh out, usually in confidence so potential developers don’t let their competitors know what they’re doing.
Waterville City Council recently adopted language that would allow data centers in M-1 zoned properties, of which there are few sites with enough land for a data center. Nearby Waterville Township has more available land and recently changed its zoning to allow data centers in agriculturally-zoned land with a conditional use permit – mirroring the same process adopted by Monclova Township in March.
Waterville City Council member Wayne Wagner said he plans to ask council, during its Monday, Oct. 13 meeting, to repeal ordinance 7-2025 and to place a moratorium on data centers. Wagner questions why Pedro was having “closed door meetings” with Heyrman, realtor Reichle Klein and others, without consulting with council.
“I am deeply concerned with the amount of overstepping we’re seeing from the LCDED. The LCDED is supposed to help cities achieve their economic development goals, not force feed unwanted development into our communities,” he said. “Waterville City Council has not asked for assistance in marketing our area for data center development.”
Pedro calls accusations that he’s being accused of negotiating deals behind the backs of residents as “hurtful” and untrue. During the Oct. 13 meeting, he plans to address those concerns. He also noted that council, and the community, would have several opportunities to weigh in if a data center development was proposed. That process includes a referral to the city’s planning commission and a recommendation to council, which would hold three separate readings and a public hearing.
“I would welcome factual debating then. Right now we don’t know what we’re debating because there’s no deal,” Pedro said.
Waterville Township trustee Julie Theroux shared that sentiment during the trustees’ Sept. 29 meeting, where she answered Haberstock’s question about data center development.
“As of right now, there is no real project we’re talking about,” Theroux said. “I’m happy that the residents are aware of it. We, as trustees, want to get their emails, letters and opinions. This would affect the lifestyles of a lot of people – it would change life forever.”
With just a few residents speaking in opposition during its August meeting, the board of trustees approved the addition of data centers to the township’s zoning code. They also agreed to hire, on retainer, a Columbus law firm that specializes in large developments to represent the township’s concerns in the event of a data center proposal.
Both Waterville Township and Monclova Township would require a potential data center developer to obtain a conditional use permit to build on agriculturally-zoned land. The permit process includes review by the county’s planning staff, recommendation by the county’s planning commission, and public hearings by the township.
“If we’re involved in the decision making, then we will have the usual process, and that involves the public,” said Monclova Township trustee Barbara Lang.
That “if” hinges on whether the land is in the township or Maumee. Since a Sept. 24 report by WTOL – a Toledo Free Press media partner – that an agreement between Mike White of Buckeye Real Estate Group and Steve Mitchell of Mitchell Development to purchase 95 acres between the Shops at Fallen Timbers and Black Road from Isaac Land Investments fell through, some mall-area property owners are nervous. Instead of single-family homes that have been planned for the area, the future for that property is now unknown. Isaac Land Development did not share plans for what’s next.
One Black Road property owner, who wished to remain anonymous, wondered whether ILI had plans to use that land, as well as nearly 200 acres west of Black Road, for a data center. The land on the east side of Black is nearly all Maumee, although the homes and a business – along with a 28-acre triangle of land at the corner of Black and the Wabash Cannonball Trail South Fork – are in Monclova Township.
The mall-area property is zoned C-N, which would allow a data center. Maumee law director Alan Lehnbauer said data centers have been listed as a permitted use in the city’s zoning code as far back as 2010. Unless a property owner is seeking incentives, the city would not need to hold a public hearing to allow a data center on that land. If a public meeting is held, a guest – meaning a non-Maumee resident – would be allowed three minutes to address council about concerns.
The city has not received a formal application or proposal for a data center, said city spokesperson Nancy Gagnet.
“The city is committed to the redevelopment of the Shops at Fallen Timbers. Our focus is squarely on creating lasting economic and community value for our residents,” she said.
The Battle of I-75 trophy sits on the desk of a College GameDay broadcast ahead of the football game between the Bowling Green Falcons and the Toledo Rockets on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025. (TFP photo by Logan Migliori)
TOLEDO – Rivalry games bring energy and passion to sports, and Saturday’s Battle of I-75 certainly met that expectation.
Saturday marked the 90th match-up between the Bowling Green Falcons and Toledo Rockets, and it was Bowling Green State University’s first sold out game of the season. For historical context, the very first meeting between these two teams was in October of 1919; on Saturday, BGSU tied the record at 43-43-4.
A crowd of BGSU students put their spirit fingers up at kickoff between the Toledo Rockets and Bowling Green Falcons. (TFP photo by Logan Migliori)
While the final score portrays a shoot-out, this was not the case. The Rockets marched right down to Bowling Green’s end zone in approximately four minutes. Toledo Rockets’ senior running back Chip Trayanum started up the scoring on a 14-yard rush early in the game. After a long Falcon drive, Toledo prevailed on the defensive end to take back possession of the ball. Late in the first quarter, Rockets senior quarterback Tucker Gleason took matters into his own hands for a 12-yard rushing touchdown. At that point, the Rockets were dominating.
A quarter of the way through the game, Toledo was leading the Falcons 14 to 0, but they weren’t finished yet. Gleason took his offense down to the red zone and completed a pass to Jacob Petersen for a 17-yard reception and touchdown.
A small scuffle breaks out between Toledo’s Senior wide receiver Trayvon Rudolph (9) and a BGSU defensive back early in the first quarter as tensions rise between the rivals. (TFP photo by Logan Migliori)
Before the athletes headed to their respective locker rooms, conversations were buzzing about leaving early, the Falcons feeling despair. With 13 seconds remaining in the half, Head Coach Eddie George’s offense called for the screen pass. Sophomore quarterback Lucian Anderson III threw the ball to Redshirt freshman Cameron Pettaway, who turned the short pass into a 45-yard touchdown, breathing a little bit of life back into the quiet Doyt Perry Stadium. The Falcons had found some momentum, a renewed hope for a win.
The third quarter was entirely silent for the Toledo Rockets, while the Falcon’s Anderson completed a second touchdown pass to sophomore tight end Jacob Harris to cut down on the deficit and create a 21-13 score. Junior Jackson Kleather added on the extra point to make the score 21-14 heading into the final quarter.
Tension was building for the Toledo defense, while Bowling Green kept rolling, opting to pull off some trickery for their third touchdown. Anderson took the snap, pitched it back to RJ Garcia II, who threw a 73-yard touchdown pass to Pettaway. An extra point attempt was again made by Kleather and Eddie George’s Falcons tied it up at home.
Not even a full minute later, the junior running back Chris McMillian punched the ball in for a one-yard rushing touchdown to give the Falcons their first lead of the night, with 6:07 remaining in the fourth quarter.
In these last six minutes, Bowling Green held the Rockets away from the end zone. This last stand was led by junior cornerback MJ Cannon who intercepted the ball of a Toledo receivers back after a dropped pass. Now on offense, with under 10 seconds left, Falcon quarterback Anderson took the snap, booking it toward the Rockets’ endzone. This decision took 23 rushing yards away from his game and added a safety to Toledo’s score, but sealed the win for the Bowling Green Falcons, who got to keep the trophy of I-75 for a second year in a row. The final score of Saturday’s game was 28-23.
As a result of this stunning win at home, the stands emptied as family, friends and fans rushed to the 50-yard line to celebrate with the Falcons.
Toledo Rockets’ sophomore kicker Dylan Cunanan (45) attempts an extra point after a touchdown which extended Toledo’s lead over Bowling Green. (TFP photo by Logan Migliori) The Battle of I-75 trophy is raised in the air in a sea of orange.Cornerback MJ Cannon (Senior) (2) after intercepting it off of a Toledo Wide Receivers back. Rockets’ defensive line coach LaTroy Lewis coaches his linemen during their match up at BGSU. Junior Falcons fullback Leo Kemp screams at the Toledo sideline after a touchdown by Pettaway (26) who can be seen celebrating in the background. BGSU’s Redshirt freshman Cameron Pettaway takes in a ball thrown by senior RJ Garcia II after a trick play was called. Falcons’ Junior Cornerback MJ Cannon (2) wags his finger at the crowd.Rockets senior running back Chip Trayanum (1) rushes the ball.Toledo Rockets junior Kenji Christian beats his defender deep and catches a ball thrown by Tucker Gleason.Bowling Green sophomore safety Kal-El Pascal (0) returns a kick while blockers lead the way.Senior Toledo quarterback Tucker Gleason (4) jogs into the end zone for a touchdown.
If you get any type of serious illness diagnosis, your world is thrown into turmoil. How sick am I? How will I be treated? Can I afford this treatment? But a terminal diagnosis brings an entirely different level of concern and panic. Who will take care of me? Of my children? How do I take care of things financially now, much less when I’m gone?
Kathy Valtin
A first step after getting such a diagnosis is to talk to your health care provider directly, and frankly, according to Kathy Valtin, vice president of marketing, communications and strategy with Hospice of Northwest Ohio.
“They can help you explore all the options” for the care you need, now and in the future, she said. Most health care providers can also provide social workers to help patients navigate their options for care.
There are a variety of other providers that can help with supporting patients’ care and financial needs. They include:
Local churches, which often can recommend services and funding for members.
Hospice of Northwest Ohio. According to Valtin, it doesn’t turn anyone away for services, and can also provide resources to help with other family issues.
Medicaid, after meeting the state’s criteria, can be used for medical needs.
United Way of Greater Toledo and the City of Toledo can help connect patients with services and resources.
The Area Office on Aging of Northwest Ohio, if the patient qualifies, can provide support.
“It’s important to break up the costs (of palliative care and funeral services), so you’re not trying to take on everything at once,” said Molly DeMaison, manager with the Cremation Society of Toledo. “Do the most pressing at once and then take care of other details later.”
Molly DeMaison
The pandemic illustrated the importance of family and friend connections. “COVID empowered families to celebrate their lives, and to do it on their own,” DeMaison said. The Cremation Society’s basic service is affordable, she said, and families and friends often come together to cover the costs.
But where possible, individuals should create a document – well in advance of any health crisis – to handle any preferences for potential long-term emergencies. The plan can include employers, health care professionals and other contacts who can be called upon for assistance and information. It can designate health care and personal wishes, including an advance directive for medical care decisions, who to contact about caring for children, and other people and organizations that might be available to help.
These documents can also highlight the type of remembrance preferred and other actions upon death. Even a basic, hand-written document can give family and friends a pathway for getting you the services and assistance you need – as well as piece of mind.
Lisa Meadows, 46, is a single mother in Toledo facing terminal cancer and the inspiration for this article. She is working with AngeLink, an online fundraising service, to raise the funds she’ll need to help cover cremation services, modest clothing for her farewell celebration and “a dignified, peaceful remembrance” that her children shouldn’t have to shoulder financially. AngeLink employs AI-driven campaign setup and optimization, as well as support through the effort, especially for medical, emergency, and memorial causes.
Meadows says she doesn’t “want family to stress about cremation or even clothes for the celebration of life.” Read more about her story at her donation page on AngeLink.
