Recognizing Community Standouts
Northwest Ohio is home to talented and generous people from all walks of life. They take time to impact the community through their work, by volunteering or with good-natured entrepreneurship. M Living, showcasing community members in our publication throughout 2024, recognized 50 locals, all over the age of 60, whose contributions to our community have improved the quality of life. In 2025, we will continue to honor community standouts with a NEW 50 Over 60 list!
Follow the QR code to celebrate all 50 of our honored community members.
STAFF
PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF
COLLETTE JACOBS
cjacobs@adamsstreetpublishing.com FAMILY TIME!
Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer MARK JACOBS mjacobs@adamsstreetpublishing.com
GOING TO THE SCHVITZ IN CLEVELAND THE DAY AFTER THANKSGIVING.
Assignment Editor
RILEY RUNNELLS mleditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com
SEEING ALL THE HOLIDAY LIGHTS OUTSIDE.
Calendar Editor
SHANNON MERRYMAN calendar@adamsstreetpublishing.com
LAZY CHRISTMAS. WE CELEBRATE BY DOING AS LITTLE AS POSSIBLE CHRISTMAS DAY.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
KIMBERLY BLAKER, AUTUMN VASQUES, AARON ROOS
ADMINISTRATION
Accounting
ROBIN ARMSTRONG rarmstrong@adamsstreetpublishing.com
CUTTING DOWN OUR CHRISTMAS TREE.
Distribution
KARENA ADAMS distribution@adamsstreetpublishing.com
GETTING TOGETHER WITH FAMILY.
ADVERTISING
Sales Coordinator
ASHLEY RUNALS (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com)
SENDING AND RECEIVING CHRISTMAS CARDS Account Executives
ADRIANNE CHASTEEN (achasteen@adamsstreetpublishing.com)
SPENDING TIME WITH FAMILY.
BONNIE HUNTER (bhunter@adamsstreetpublishing.com)
DECORATING THE CHRISTMAS TREE. JEN LEACH (jleach@adamsstreetpublishing.com) CHRISTMAS EVE WITH OUR CRAZY FAMILY!
LILA WATERFIELD (lwaterfield@adamsstreetpublishing.com) LIGHTS AT THE ZOO! (THOUGH WE USUALLY END UP HIDING IN THE AQUARIUM FOR WARMTH).
ART/PRODUCTION
Production Manager
IMANI LATEEF (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) MY NIECE’S FASHION SHOW AFTER DINNER.
Senior Designer LEAH FOLEY (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com)
SHOPPING FOR GIFTS OUT OF TOWN.
WEB/DIGITAL MARKETING & SOCIAL MEDIA BAILE RINALDI digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com
GOING TO THE CHRISTMAS STORY HOUSE W/ FAMILY.
MARGOT JACOBS margot@adamsstreetpublishing.com
by Fred Cicetti
It seems like just yesterday we were ringing in the new year, 2024, and celebrating a fresh new beginning. It’s now time to ring in a quarter of a century with 2025.
The start of a new year involves new resolutions, new eras of your life, or new beginnings. From my first editor’s note with MLiving’s August/September 2023 issue, to our December/January 2025 issue, I am signing off as an editor at Adams Street Publishing.
Together, with our wonderful staff and consistent readership, we’ve created some great issues. We’ve gotten to know local icons like Billie Johnson and Joe Napoli; created guides for local veterans who served our country; introduced you to local businesses making a huge community impact; and given flowers to our annual Reader’s Choice Award winners and our inaugural 50 members of our 50 Over 60 Community Standout awards. The dedication from all parties involved is palpable through each issue of MLiving, and this issue is no different.
In this 2025 kickoff issue, we take a look at our Holiday Wish List for some last minute holiday shoppers (P14), and talk to Toledo’s Christmas icon, Paul Causman, Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol for more than 20 years (P5). Keeping with the holiday theme, we provide tips on how to survive the holiday season with your wallet intact (P18).
We also provide information for caregivers through our Focus on Caregiving section, complete with
A PRE-THANKSGIVING DINNER SWEAT WITH REGGIE PEACOCK AT MAJESTIC LIFESTYLES AND FITNESS. Name:
resources and anecdotes from other caregivers experiences (P6). A story regarding how to operate social media and navigate the many relevant online platforms at your fingertips (P20).
As always, MLiving continues to be the premier resource for our readers. I have no doubt that MLiving will continue to bring important and exciting information to its readers. I’m grateful for the time I had as the editor of this publication, and honored by the trust you all gave me to enhance MLiving.
I will miss connecting with you online and in print, but am excited to join you as an avid reader of this publication. Thank you for everything, and as always…
Happy reading!!
Riley Runnells
FAKE AD
the fake ad? Send an e-mail to fakead@ mlivingnews.com for a chance to win a restaurant gift certificate for two at a local eatery.
Congrats!
Destination Toledo’s CEO honored
Lance Woodworth, Destination Toledo President and CEO received the 2024 Paul Sherlock Legend in Ohio Travel Award, the highest honor in the industry. Woodworth graduated from BGSU and received a certification as Destination Management Executive through Destinations International. Woodworth was recognized for his career achievements at the Ohio’s Travel Association’s 2024 Ohio Conference on Travel which took place in Toledo. toledo.com
TPS Superintendent honored
Romulus Durant, Toledo Public Schools’ Superintendent for the last 11-years, was awarded the 2024 Urban Educator of the Year by the Council of the Great City Schools at the organization’s 68th annual fall conference. Durant was granted a $10,000 college scholarship to present to a TPS student. Also, TPS’ Mona Al-Hayani, a history teacher at Toledo Early College High School, received the 2024 Queen Smith Award for commitment to urban public education., tps.org
The Arts Commission’s Art in Public Places Program
Public art displays, familiar to Toledoans, are undergoing repair and restoration efforts with an ‘art refresh.’ Three city sculptures will be involved in the effort; The Kabuki Dancer, in Levis Square, will receive touch ups to its damaged aluminum portions and repainting in the spring of 2025; The Vessel, in the Cherry St corridor roundabout, will undergo repairs and refabrications. And Cork Marcheschi’s Art Tatum Celebration Column, in the courtyard next to the Huntington Center, will be refinished, to be reinstalled in the spring of 2025. theartscommission.org
Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing (REPL)
REPL granted $104,000 in funding to 45 Ohio cemeteries in 32 counties through the Fiscal Year 2025 Cemetery Grant Fund. The Ohio Cemetery Dispute Resolution Commission works to resolve complaints made against the State’s 4,100 cemeteries through mediation and conciliation. “We are honored to provide these important funds to help Ohio’s beautiful cemeteries improve recordkeeping, restore monuments, repair fencing, improve signage and enhance visitor safety, all of which helps preserve a piece of our state’s history,” said REPL Superintendent Daphne Hawk. com.ohio.gov
METROPARKS TOLEDO URBAN CAMPGROUND
The Metroparks will open an Urban Campground in 2026 at the Glass City Metropark. Recreational Vehicle hookups, tent and cabin sites and a pavilion are planned for the space. A grant, provided by the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund, will fund an access road to the campground as well as campsites and cleanup. See more details at toledocitypaper.com.
THE SALVATION ARMY OFFERS WINTER ASSISTANCE
The Salvation Army is offering resources to help relieve families in need, including Adopt-a-Family program, Children’s Tree (also known as Angel Tree, Toy Shop or Toy Town), Thanksgiving and Christmas hot meals and food baskets, holiday parties and coats and winter gear for youth and adults. These programs ensure better holiday celebrations during this time of giving. For more information visit easternusa.salvationarmy.org
COLUMBIA GAS OF OHIO PAYMENT ASSISTANCE
As the cold weather arrives, Columbia Gas is offering payment assistance programs for customers. The 2024-25 Special Reconnect Order (SRO) as well as the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) are available for qualifying customers along with the Winter Crisis Program, Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP Plus), HeatShare, Warm Choice, Utility Fuel Fund and more. In addition to these programs, there are also payment plans available for customers. columbiagasohio.com
TOLEDO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA’S 5-YEAR CONTRACT
The Toledo Symphony Orchestra signed a five-year Collective Bargaining Agreement with Local Chapter 15-286 of the American Federation of Musicians with a goal to improve creative workspaces for musically inclined artists during the 2024/2025 to 2028/2029 seasons. In addition to workplace improvements, Toledo Symphony musicians will also receive compensation increases and an increase matching retirement plan contributions. artstoledo.com
Profile
Paul Causman: A Toledo Staple
The leading man of The Toledo Rep’s “A Christmas Carol” for more than 20 years
By Riley Runnells
The Toledo holiday season rings in with the Toledo Repertoire Theatre’s production of A Christmas Carol. This community staple shows the cold-hearted Ebenezer Scrooge as he is visited by the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future to learn how to open his heart to the world before it is too late.
The Rep’s production is not the only staple of Dickens’ classic tale; the show’s leading man, Scrooge, is played by Paul Causman, entering his 21st year in the production. Causman’s passion for the stage and Dickens’ words are abundant, but what keeps him coming back to the role is the relationships he forms with the people he meets both on and off the stage.
We sat down with Causman between A Christmas Carol rehearsals to talk about his start in theater, his process in the role and his devotion to the community.
How has your performance of Scrooge changed over the years? Every time I go back to it, it changes. Because I’m not the same person that I was 15 years ago, or 10 or even last year. We’re all different. At the core, we’re the same person, but we can’t have lived without changing because everything around us changes. As a result, yeah, so does the character. I can’t help but change it. That’s one of the things that’s so wonderful about it.
It’s so rare that an actor gets to repeat a role. And I’ve repeated a number of them two, three and even four times, but I’ve never had a character that I’ve repeated year after year after year and that is rare. It’s really rare. And I’m so honored to do it because it’s such an incredible experience. You learn so much about the character. You learn so much about the story and you learn so much about yourself as an actor and a person.
People always ask me, “Why do you want to do it year after year after year?” Well, that’s why. But I also love seeing people. With Christmas Carol it’s like a family.
It’s so lovely to hear you talk about your experience in the show, but particularly your relationships that you have formed in the show. I see what people do and the generosity that they have, coming together to do this. This is a gift to Toledo; it’s become a Toledo institution in that regard. It’s not easy to put this show on. There’s a lot of rehearsals and a lot of work and people come in and
devote their time and resources and talents to making this happen for the rest of the community. I think it’s beautiful, and I love to watch people come back and do what they’ve done before and I love watching new people discover new things and develop their new characters. That’s the real meaning of it for me: People who are involved in it.
You have such a passion for community theater. Talk a little bit about your love for it. When people talk to me we usually end up talking about A Christmas Carol because I’ve done it for so long. I want to talk about theater in general and specifically community theater. We’re really lucky in Toledo. We have a great community theater in the Toledo Rep, but we also have a lot of other community theaters who do really play a huge role in providing an artistic outlet and opportunities for artistic expression, be it acting or directing or designing costumes or whatever the case may be.
One of the great things about it is they can walk into a theater and all of a sudden they instantly have a network of people no matter where they go. It’s inclusive; it’s diverse. It gives people a sense of pride. I can’t say enough about it. A Christmas Carol is one thing, Scrooge is a great thing, but what’s really amazing in Toledo is just the breadth and depth of community theater in this town and we tend to take it for granted. But it’s huge, and it’s an amazing asset for the community.
What do you do outside of Christmas Carol? Job, hobbies, free time pleasures? I’m a graphic designer. I work for a social services charity, the Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo and we raise money for food banks, refugee services, all kinds of programming. I started here in 2000 as a graphic designer. My job has expanded to include marketing director and also editor of Toledo Jewish News. I have my partner Richard Fourtner of 39 years, we celebrated 39 in July, and that’s my family along with my three cats. I love the summer, the spring, fall. I love when I can be outside. I don’t have a horse anymore, but I always rode horses for years. Between my job and the theater, certainly it takes up plenty of my time.
Are you involved in other local productions in the Christmas Carol off season? I’ve been involved in lots of shows over the years. I mean, if there’s a performance organization in town, whatever the performance organization in town, I’ve worked with them. I’ve worked with the Toledo Rep. I’ve worked with Toledo Opera, Toledo Jazz Society, Toledo Symphony, Toledo Museum of Art, the University of Toledo the Department of Theater & Film, The Village Players, Ms. Rose’s Dinner Theater, Actors Collaborative, Glass City Theatre Collective, Valentine Theatre and Toledo Ballet.
Causman is in his 22nd production of AChristmasCarolas Scrooge.
Transportation
Caregivers’
Choosing a Car & Useful Travel Gadgets
by Kimberly Blaker
When you care for someone with physical or mental challenges due to age or disability, regular transportation may become more complicated. A traditional car setup may be difficult or even dangerous for those with limited mobility or safety concerns. But it is still necessary to get out and go places not only for appointments or to run errands, but also to retain some freedom and engagement with the world.
In a world that often moves too fast, it’s easy to overlook the quiet, tireless work that happens behind the scenes—work that makes the difference between independence and vulnerability, comfort and distress. Caregivers, both professional and familial, are the unseen hands that provide support, strength and compassion to those who need it most. Whether tending to an aging parent, supporting a spouse through illness or offering skilled assistance to individuals with disabilities, caregiving is a role that demands not only expertise and patience but an immense depth of love and dedication. This feature celebrates the often underappreciated heroes of our society: the caregivers.
Considerations when choosing a vehicle
If you're choosing a new car, remember the additional consideration to find a vehicle that's more accommodating. Think about the basics like your budget, gas mileage, reliability and desired features or technology, but it's also important to consider the specific needs of your passenger and what accommodations are needed to ensure their comfort and safety along with appropriate accessibility and convenience.
Common features caregivers may find helpful in a car include:
Car accessories to improve accessibility
Many helpful gadgets and accessories can increase your current car's accessibility. Think about your vehicle and aspects of traveling that your passenger may struggle with. Several accessories afford more independence while also making travel easier and more comfortable.
1. Swivel Seat Cushion: Getting in and out of a car seat can be very difficult for those with limited mobility. A swivel seat cushion makes it easy to sit and turn without straining or having to twist the body.
2. Sojoy iGelComfort Deluxe Gel Swivel Seat Cushion has a 16-inch diameter and memory foam inside for increased comfort.
3. Vehicle Support Handle: A portable support handle hooks into the door's latch to support users while pulling themselves up to rise from their seat with less risk of injury or strain.
By Black & White Transportation
Large cargo space for hauling equipment and other items
Low floor but higher seats for an easier time getting in and out
Spacious interior with plenty of leg and headroom in the front and back seats
Power doors that can open by pressing a button on the remote and a touch-activated back door for easy loading and unloading
Remote start to heat or cool the car before entering
Power windows and locks
Also, don't hesitate to ask for advice from auto salespeople who may offer suggestions you hadn't considered and share knowledge of what type of vehicle will work best for your situation.
4. Able Lift Auto Cane Vehicle Support Handle is a small 1 pound, 6.5 inch long support handle. It stores easily in the car and works in any door latch.
5. Buckle Release Aid: Pushing the small release button on the seatbelt can be difficult for those with arthritis or limited hand or finger strength. Release aids are designed to reduce the force needed and to make the unbuckle easier.
6. Bucklebee is a small release aid that can stay on the seatbelt for convenience.
7. Buckle Cover: Alternatively, if you have concerns about someone with cognitive issues who may try to leave the car, there are buckle covers that require a small device to slide through a slot to press the release.
Cont’d on p8
Caregiver Services
Kinship Navigator Program Helping caretakers and providing resources
By Autumn Vasquez
Lucas County’s nationally recognized Kinship Navigator Program is a local resource initiative by the Department of Job and Family Services and the Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio. The program guides grandparents and other relatives in Lucas County who are raising children in their extended families by connecting them with community resources, support groups and financial support.
“The program helps to build and strengthen the resilience of the kinship family caregivers and just let them know they’re not alone,” Arcelia Armstrong, coordinator of the Kinship Navigator Program, said.
Kinship Care is a term used to describe situations where grandparents or relatives take on the task of raising a child or children full-time when their biological parents are unable to
do so. This can occur for a variety of reasons including death or chronic illness, abuse or neglect, substance abuse, incarceration, poverty and more.
The Lucas County Kinship Navigator program is currently serving more than 1,300 kinship caregivers in the area with information and referral services, legal assistance and educational resources. Kinship caregivers in Lucas County that are ages 18 and over and take on the responsibility of caring for a child full-time are eligible to receive financial assistance and health coverage for the children through Job & Family Services.
“Many caregivers are struggling financially and it is really important to link them with the services they need,” Marsha Rose, supervisor of the Kinship Navigator Program, said.
These services are available regardless of the caregivers’ income or custody status, but other programs such as Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program, Food Stamps and utility assistance may have income limitations. Children with disabilities may also be eligible for Social Security Income.
Educational outreach is an important part of the program’s resources to support kinship families. The opportunities provided through the program include educational programming for caregivers, a summer education series for families, a mental health series and quarterly kinship club meetings and support groups.
The program also offers support through special resource events made possible by donations from strong community partners. These resources
include winter coats, school supplies, holiday meal assistance, Toledo Zoo memberships and tickets to Toledo Mud Hens and Walleye games. The Kinship Navigator team works to provide meaningful connections with kinship families by keeping in contact with caregivers through follow-up meetings and ongoing support as familial situations and needs change. The program provides links to need-based resources such as clothing, food, furniture and baby items, and sends bi-weekly e-blasts and quarterly newsletters to keep caregivers up to date with resources and events.
For more information about the resources provided through the Kinship Navigator Program, visit the The Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio website or call 419.382.0624.
Alzheimer’s Association collecting caregiver stories Health
The Alzheimer’s Association recognizes more than 11 million loved ones across the US who are caring for a person living with Alzheimer’s. The Alzheimer’s Association is seeking caregiver stories to help show the resources available for Ohio caregivers and to demonstrate that no one is alone in this journey. Local caregivers impacted by dementia are asked to share their personal accounts of the disease and the impact it has. To share your story or for more information, visit alz.org/nwohio.
Caregivers’
RESOURCES
Area Office on Aging
2155 Arlington Ave.
419-382-0624
areaofficeonaging.com
The Area Office on Aging provides you and your loved ones with the quality services that allow you to be as independent as possible; empowering you to live your life to the fullest. Each year, over 40,000 older northwest Ohioans are served through the Area Office on Aging and its network of 180 providers.
The Commons: Promedica
Senior Living 10542 Fremont Pike 419-874-1931
perrysburgcommons.com
The Commons offers all-inclusive monthly independent living rental options for persons ages 55 and over. The community is designed for your active and healthy lifestyle offering an array of floor plans including studios, one and two bedroom apartments.
Mercy Health Partners
Various locations 419-251-4153 mercy.com
Mercy Health understands that every family is a universe. A network of people who love, support and count on one other to be there. Everybody means the world to someone and Mercy is committed to care for others so they can be there for the ones they love. With nearly 35,000 employees across regions of Ohio and Kentucky, Mercy is one of the largest health care systems in the country. At each of our more than 600 points of care, Mercy delivers high-quality, compassionate care with one united purpose: to help the patients be well in mind, body and spirit.
Ohio Living Swan Creek
5916 Cresthaven Lane 419-865-4445
ohioliving.org/communities/ohio -living-swan-creek
Black and White Transportation
4665 W Bancroft St. 419-536-8294 bwtransportation.com
Whether you are heading out for a night on the town, need a ride to the airport or require transportation to see your doctor, Black & White Transportation will get you to your destination safely and promptly. We have been locally owned and serving the Greater Toledo Area for over 75 years. We operate the largest fleet of sedans, minivans and wheelchair accessible vans in northwest Ohio.
As a life plan community, they provide the opportunity to choose housing that complements your lifestyle. Customized on-site amenities, features and services provide freedom from chores, opportunities for growth, and the security of knowing quality care and services are close at hand.
Orchard Villa
2841 Munding Drive 567-429-8477
lhshealth.com/orchard-villa Orchard Villa, with an impressive survey history and a staff with many long-term employees, provides quality care in a warm, home-like environment. Its services include short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, skilled nursing, hospice care, and respite care.
Parkcliffe Alzheimer’s Community
4226 Parkcliffe Lane 419-698-3822
parkcliffe.com
At Parkcliffe, the staff is committed to maintaining your loved one’s sense of independence and unique life history. They are experts in care for Alzheimer’s and Dementia, and work together with the residents and their families to rediscover personal interests and participate in daily activities that they’ve always enjoyed.
Ryan Pharmacy & Orthopedics Supply
3340 Dorr St. 419-531-2836
ryanpharmacy.com
Ryan Pharmacy has served as Toledo’s full service pharmacy and orthopedic supply since 1959. Ryan Pharmacy has always carried the mission that service is the most important part of the business. Ryan created the full service pharmacy with everything from prescriptions and magazines to new hospital beds, walkers and wheelchairs. They welcome customers with open arms and look forward to becoming your partner in healthcare.
Village Caregiving
3178 Republic Blvd. S Suite 4 419-260-4544
villagecaregiving.com
Welcome to Village Caregiving, where caregivers extend the warmth of family. For over 10 years, Village Caregiving has upheld a tradition of compassionate care, honoring dignity every step of the way. The team isn’t just here to provide services — they’re here to walk alongside you, offering comfort and support like you’re part of their own family.
2024 Holiday Gift Guide Giving
as the holiday season approaches, it’s time to celebrate local businesses who offer gifts for the season. We’ve curated a collection that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Get ready to unwrap the perfect local gift to make this holiday season truly memorable.
Salts of the 7 Seas
419-842-8525
saltsofthe7seas.com
Salts of the 7 Seas is an online shop for exotic salts from around the world, including Europe, the Himalayas, Peru, South Africa, South Korea, Iceland and the Kalahari Desert. For this holiday season, check out the salt and/or pepper tin samplers. The window on top of each tin shows you the textures and colors of salts you’re receiving, and each sample has a description on the website. Ranging from $32.95 to $35.95, these embossed tins include varieties of salts, peppers or a combination of the two for you to spice up any dish. They make great hostess gifts!
Carlos Mendez
Rosaria’s on Third Street
135 W. Third St., Perrysburg 567-686-7644
rosariason3rd.com
Rosaria’s on Third Street is an addition to the Rosie’s concept. Rosaria’s expands upon the idea of fine-dining with deep Sicilian roots in pasta and seafood. For a lovely dining experience, visit the comfortable and attractively decorated restaurant or buy a gift card to share this great cuisine.
Carlos & Lupita’s Restaurants
Cocina De Carlos Lupita’s Cantina Various locations 419-963-4611
lupitas-mexican.com
Cocina de Carlos means Carlos’ Kitchen and is focused on the origins of the culinary family tradition of Carlos’ Family (Carlos and Carlos Senior). After years focused on Carlos, the family decided to close the circle and focus on both Lupitas: Lupita mama and Lupita (Pita) daughter with Lupita’s Cantina. All of the Carlos & Lupita’s Restaurants offer authentic Mexican dishes with delicious drinks. For this holiday season, purchase a gift card to any of the locations and enjoy a dinner with your loved ones.
Body & Sole Massage Therapy
214 Louisiana Ave.
419-873-7653 | bodyandsolemassagetherapy.com
Salt Cave
318 Louisiana Ave. | 419-873-7300 saltcaveofperrysburg.com
Do you have a friend who’s overwhelmed by the stresses of the holiday season? Do they need to get away? Take a trip to Perrysburg to relax with the staff at Body & Sole and the Salt Cave. They are masters at putting people at ease. From the soothing atmospheres to the wide variety of massages and bodywork available, this is a place to get away from it all. So make a gift of Body & Sole, or purchase salt products and other holistic health products at The Salt Cave’s Salt Shop.
Sidelines Sports Eatery
Various locations
419-474-0000
Sidelinescatering.com
Sidelines Sports Eatery, in conjunction with Sidelines Italian Grille, Smokehouse 734, 734 @ The Yard and Brick House Commons, offer several area locations and food styles for you to enjoy. Whether you need an event fully catered, a small room to hold a meeting or an event space for your wedding, shower or party, Sidelines has you covered. Purchase gift cards at any of these locations to give the gift of a meal at a later date.
Cont’d on p16
Belamere Suites
12200 Williams Road | 419-874-2233 | belameresuites.com
Though the holidays are great for spending time at home, gift your loved ones a luxurious getaway at Belamere Suites. Belamere Suites’ rooms with private heated swimming pools, warm fireplaces, whirlpool tubs for two, double showers and 24-hour concierge service. The stay can be romantic or a delightful place for you and friends. Give your loved ones the gift of luxury with a stay at Belamere Suites.
Franklin Park Mall
5001 Monroe St., Ste. 700 419-473-3317 visitfranklinparkmall.com
The mall is a place you know and love, but the holiday season brings more events and fun for the whole family while taking care of your holiday shopping. Enjoy visits with Santa, Nov. 22 through Dec. 24 at Santa’s Wishing Garden, Center Court. There’s nothing quite as enchanting as the time-honored tradition of sharing wishes with Santa. Franklin Park Mall warmly welcomes you to Santa’s Wishing Garden for visits, keepsake photos and the magic of wishes. Times vary. Enjoy special treats and cozy moments from Franklin Perk Cafe with each Santa visit.
Back Forty Catering
5215 Monroe St. 419-724-7901 mancys.com/shortys-back-forty
In 2016, the catering arm of Shorty’s True American Roadhouse began to branch out on its own. A part of the Mancy’s family of restaurants, the newly dubbed Shorty’s Back Forty Catering, now a community staple, took up residence at the former Star Bar and Grille on Monroe Street. Purchase a gift card for a loved one or buy Back Forty’s catering services for your holiday or any other gathering.
Boyd’s Retro Candy
954 Phillips Ave. 419-720-7387 boydsretrocandy.com
A true old time candy store where you’ll find candy from all time periods. Specializing in the 50s, 60s and 70s but satisfying candy lovers of every generation, patrons can purchase by the individual piece or in bulk. Take home some candy for you and your loved ones, treat your party or wedding guests to the corner store loves of your childhood, make special retro gift bags for gatherings and more. With over 1,000 candy choices, it will be easy to find a holiday gift choice for your loved ones.
Home
Holiday Savvy Survive the season with your finances intact
by Kimberly Blaker
With higher credit card interest rates, consumers may feel more of a pinch with holiday gift shopping this year. Throw in the costs of holiday cards, decorating, baking, holiday dinners and unplanned purchases, and holiday shopping can add up to a heap of change.
Many people are set back financially for months following the holiday season. One big reason is that credit cards make it easy to overspend, leaving individuals and families to deal with the consequences later. The problem with credit cards is monthly payments and long-term costs from accrued interest.
So what can you do to ensure you start the new year without new debt?
*Create a holiday budget. Include gifts, food, decorations and postage for holiday cards, wrapping supplies and the babysitter for your shopping trip. Then review your list, and determine where you can cut costs.
*Gifts to extended family and friends are an excellent place to start. Talk to those you exchange gifts with, and see if they’ll either forego the gift exchange or set a dollar limit. Another option for families or groups is to draw names, which reduces the number of gifts to be purchased. A “white elephant” gift exchange, where amusing and impractical gifts are given to entertain participants is also a fun option.
*Planning your gift budget based on value rather than the amount to spend on each person can also reduce holiday expenses. Decide in advance on a gift value for each gift recipient. Then look for great buys. Let’s say you’ve decided on a gift value of $50 for your sister. Now, try to find a gift that’s a $50 value but only costs you $30 or $40. With many gifts to buy, this can minimize the expense.
*Do you usually send out more holiday cards than you receive? If so, opt instead for a phone call during the holiday season. This is particularly meaningful for those you
don’t talk to often, and it won’t cost you a thing. Another option is to only mail cards to those who send one to you.
*Cut back on the baking. When’s the last time you heard someone complain of a shortage of holiday goodies? Probably never. Most of us eat far more than we’d like to just because it’s there.
*If you’re hosting any parties, hold potluck dinners instead of playing head chef. You could offer to provide the main course, then ask invited guests to bring a specific type of dish to avoid duplicates.
*Eliminate your babysitting expense by exchanging babysitting with a neighbor — that way, each of you has the opportunity to shop without the kids.
*Plan your shopping before you head out. Do online research to find the best deals on the items on your shopping list. If you can’t find a good deal on something, consider an alternative. Also, check fliers and the ‘coupon’ page of store websites where you plan to shop.
*If possible, leave credit cards at home when you go shopping to avoid impulse purchases. Many people spend far more than they intend to by purchasing “irresistible”, spur of the moment bargains.
*Finally, if you do use your credit card, make a realistic plan to double or triple your monthly payments. This will reduce your interest expense and more quickly eliminate your debt.
Follow these tips to help you beat hectic holiday costs while still having all the great fun and making memories.
Digitally Active
Social media & other basics for the not-so-computer-savvy
by Kimberly Blaker
Today, you can be a part of your family and friends’ lives, even at a distance. Social media and other platforms and apps make it easy to stay connected with your personal computer, laptop, phone or other devices. With so many social platforms and apps, it might feel confusing to keep track of what you can do with each and how they work. The following basics should help you get started!
Apps
‘Apps’ is short for applications: programs that you can download to your devices instead of using an internet browser. They’re found in an application store on your device (App Store on iOS/Apple devices, Google Play Store on Android and Google devices, or Windows Store on Windows devices). Just click on the app store for your device to download free or paid apps or to see what you’ve already installed.
Apps are available for almost anything you can think of: games (e.g., New York Times Crossword, Words With Friends), social media (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok), reading (e.g., Kindle, Libby), video streaming (e.g., Netflix, Hulu), shopping (e.g., Amazon, Target) and more. Apps are organized in app stores by category. You can also search by most popular, by name or type of apps.
X (previously known as Twitter)
X is social media app and website where users can post short messages, up to 280 characters, which may include a link, video, picture or sharing a post from another user. You can ‘follow’ people you know, strangers, celebrities, companies and organizations to see their posts on your X homepage. You can also see the ‘timelines’ of other users or post to your own timeline for your followers to see. With the explore feature, you can look up hashtags (searchable phrases preceded by a # sign) or particular words and what’s trending (top hashtags or popular phrases at the time).
Facebook is a popular social media app and website. You add ‘friends’ who can see your posts and whose posts you can see on a home page. Users also have their own main page where you can see the user’s profile picture, information about them and photos, links, videos or other posts they’ve shared.
You can also follow ‘pages’ on an unlimited number of interests, including celebrities, tv shows, movies, towns, restaurants, companies, non-profits, social causes, politics and more.
Many Facebook users also join various ‘groups’ that pair well with their lives and interests, locally, nationally and even internationally.
Facebook users interact by posting on each other’s ‘walls’ or interacting with posts through reaction buttons, comments or sharing. With Facebook Messenger, you can even send private, direct messages to those on your friends list. Facebook Messenger Kids is for children under 13, allowing them to message guardian-approved people under a guardian’s account.
TikTok
TikTok is a short video-based social media app and website. You can create 15-second to one-minute videos and share them for others to see. You can edit videos by putting together short clips, using filters to alter the video’s appearance, and adding songs or other audio. Videos can be seen by your followers, found by others searching by hashtags (searchable phrases preceded by a # sign), or on the ‘for you page’ that all users can see.
When viewing others’ videos, tap a heart on the right to indicate you like a video or tap a speech bubble to read or leave a comment. You can also tap the user’s handle (@ followed by a unique name) to see more videos created and posted by the same person. People use TikTok in various creative ways, like participating in challenges, dances or trends.
Instagram is a social media app and site for posting pictures and videos. Users can create a post to display on their account page and the homepage timeline of their followers. You can also comment on posts, ‘like’ them by tapping the heart icon, share them with friends or include them in your ‘story.’ Instagram ‘stories’ are temporary posts members can share for up to 24 hours. Many companies and organizations use Instagram to reach users, sell products or share information.
Blogs
Blogs are basically web pages run by one or more individuals working to share information, usually in a specific niche, often in an informal way. Anyone can visit a blog. Blogs may be found by performing a web search or by recommendation.
Typically, blogs have a reverse timeline on their main page, meaning that the most recent post is usually first, with other posts shown in reverse chronological order. Blogs typically include writing about the topic along with pictures, videos, recipes or links to other pages or products. Menu tabs or blocks are usually near the top of the page to click so you can explore the blog or access an ‘about’ section to learn more about the author(s) and the blog.
Posting Photos
On social media platforms, users can post photos or videos to share with friends or followers. The exact method varies depending on the platform, but many have either a plus sign or a button to click that says “post.” If you’re using an app to post photos, you may need to allow permission for the app to access your saved images. You can also usually take a picture or video while in the app. You should see a screen notification that your photographs or videos have been posted. But to check, you can look at your own profile or ask someone you know to look at your page from their account.
Now, more than ever, it’s possible to be part of your family and friends’ lives, even when you are physically apart. Social media and other platforms and apps make it easy to stay connected from your personal computer, laptop, phone and other devices. These basics should help you get started and stay connected.
Mental Illness is Biologically Based: Let’s End the Stigma
by Kimberly Blaker
Nearly one in five American adults experience mental illness in any given year, according to the National Institute of Mental Health – and one in 25 experience a serious mental illness (SMI). Those with an SMI consist primarily of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder and severe major depression.
Unfortunately, people with mental illness experience a high degree of stigma. They often experience discrimination in the workplace and their personal lives from those who see someone with a mental illness as odd or flawed. This often results from a misunderstanding of mental illness and not recognizing that it’s a medical condition.
Many experts and advocates recognize this problem and have called for biologically-based brain diseases to be reclassified into more appropriate fields of medicine, such as neurology. This move would go a long way toward reducing stigma. Reclassification would also help to ensure those with brain illnesses can get insurance coverage and adequate treatment.
Major depressive disorder (MDD)
In any given year, 6.7% of the population will experience MDD. A smaller percentage suffers from severe MDD. Unlike the occasional sadness or blues many people experience, MDD is a persistently low mood that interrupts daily living. Symptoms include changes in appetite and sleep, lack of energy, difficulty concentrating, feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities, ruminations about death, suicide attempts and, in severe cases, psychosis.
Bipolar disorder (BD)
This disorder, affecting 2.6% of the population, is marked by emotional extremes ranging from depressive symptoms, as described above, to mania or hypomania. During manic episodes, sufferers experience a decreased need for sleep, extremely elevated mood and increased energy or agitation. They’re also easily distracted, may have racing thoughts, and take foolish risks. For some people with BD, delusions, and hallucinations accompany mania.
Schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder
These two diseases affect 1.2% and .3% of the population, respectively. Schizophrenia is the most serious mental illness, marked by symptoms of psychosis, which are paranoia, delusions and hallucinations. Disorganized thinking, speech or motor movement is also present. ‘Negative symptoms’ prevent a person with schizophrenia from functioning. Those with schizophrenia often have poor hygiene, withdraw socially and have a symptom known as avolition, a decrease in motivation.
Despite new and improved medications for this disease, only onethird of sufferers can lead a relatively functional life. Another one-third is treatment-resistant, with the final third receiving a degree of relief. As a result, two-thirds of those with schizophrenia are dependent, or often homeless or housed in America’s jails and prisons – which often function as today’s new mental health institutions.
Schizoaffective disorder is marked by features of both bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
While the cause of these two disorders is unknown, researchers believe genetics, biology and environmental factors combined contribute to these brain diseases.
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).
Panic disorder
One in ten adults experiences a panic attack every year. Panic disorder, however, affects only one in 33 people. With this disorder, people experience sudden and repeated bouts of extreme fear that lasts at least several minutes, if not longer. The symptoms include shortness of breath, racing heart, trembling, weakness, dizziness, chest pain, tingling or numbing of hands, stomach pain and nausea. Sufferers may also experience fear of dying, going crazy, being out of control or impending doom. Panic disorder often results in the avoidance of things or places where attacks have previously taken place.
Panic disorder is highly treatable with a combination of medication and psychotherapy. It’s believed to be biological and genetic in nature.
The exact cause of MDD is unknown. What is known, though, is that a variety of factors can contribute to the disorder. These include biological changes in the brain, genetics, hormones and brain chemistry.
Some people with MDD might experience a single bout. Yet for others, it’s chronic. Fortunately, antidepressants are effective for most people, though some are treatment-resistant, leading to long-term disability.
Though the exact cause of bipolar is unknown, it’s biological and often genetic.
Bipolar is highly treatable, though some people experience treatment resistance. Also, during manic episodes, people with BD are typically unable to recognize their illness. Left untreated, it can be a very debilitating disease.
This perplexing disorder, which affects 1% of the population, is marked by obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are most commonly seen in the form of fear of contamination or harm to self or others, excessive concern with order or bodily symptoms or intrusive religious thoughts. In turn, those afflicted with OCD act out compulsions to alleviate their fears or thoughts. This is done through repeated acts of checking, organizing, washing or senseless acts of tapping, counting or repeating words.
Medication combined with therapy helps treat OCD, though the prognosis is better for those with milder symptoms. Many people with this disorder experience severe debilitation.
The cause of OCD is understood to be a combination of genetics, biology and environmental factors.
Anorexia or bulimia disorder
These two eating disorders combined affect one in 40 Americans, mostly women, and share many of the same symptoms. These include the absence of periods, slow heart rate, swelling, dizziness, constipation, hypotension, hair loss and more.
Treatment consists of medical care, nutritional counseling, psychotherapy, and medication. Prognosis varies by the particular illness, among other factors. Still, a significant percentage do not reach full recovery, sometimes resulting in death.
It’s believed genetics combined with psychological and sociological factors contribute to eating disorders.
Autism spectrum disorders
These disorders affect one in 68 children. Symptoms include repetitive or unusual behaviors, intense interest in particular topics, making little eye contact, facial expressions and gestures that don’t match what’s said, an unusual tone of voice, and difficulty understanding other points of view. Other social, language, cognitive, behavioral and emotional deficits are present as well.
Treatment for this developmental disorder includes behavior interventions and medication. Prognosis is dependent, in part, on early diagnosis and intervention.
The end of stigma
Though the cause of autism spectrum disorders is unknown, genetics and environmental factors appear to contribute to its development.
Other disorders
Numerous other mental disorders afflict millions of Americans as well. Other depressive disorders, dissociative identity disorder, anxiety disorders, personality disorders and attention deficit disorder are but a few. Each has the potential to be disabling, and those who suffer from these disorders sometimes experience stigma as well.
As more people who suffer from mental illness open up, hopefully, we can reduce the pervasive stigma that surrounds mental illness. Particularly crucial to ending stigma, however, is ensuring those with the most severe brain diseases (SMI) receive appropriate and adequate treatment.
Individuals with mental illness are more likely to be victims of violence than to commit violence, however, the subset with untreated SMI does have higher violence rates resulting from psychosis. By ensuring they receive humane medical treatment to manage their brain disease (and improve their quality of life), the violence that contributes to stigma will be diminished.
Just like any other organ of the body, our brains are prone to medical conditions. The brain is the most complex organ of our bodies. As researchers come to understand our brains better, more sophisticated diagnostic tools will be developed for a more definitive diagnosis. In the meantime, we should treat those with mental illness with the same dignity, respect and empathy we use for those with a physical disability, heart condition, stroke or Alzheimer’s disease.
Health Notes
New COVID-19 Shots
As cold and flu season arrives, new vaccines warding against COVID-19 are available to the public. Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax have produced updated vaccines to prevent severe symptoms of today’s common omicron strain of the virus. The FDA recommends that everyone over the age of 6 months receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine along with a flu shot. vaccines.gov/en
Mercy Health invests in health science academy
Mercy Health, Toledo Public Schools and Mercy College celebrate investment in the TPS Health Science Academy. The State of Ohio Capital Budget includes $500,000 allocated for fifth floor renovation in the Mercy College of Ohio building, at Jefferson and 22d St, downtown. To provide students with a comprehensive health science education, nine classrooms, two science labs and multiple study spaces and offices are slated for the project. mercy.com
Owens operates a Dental Hygiene Clinic
Opened in the fall of 2024, the dental clinic at Owens Community College is offering quality dental services at a reasonable cost to adults and children. The new clinic features licensed dental professionals and has 21 chairs available from September through May. Costs range from $5 to $35 on a sliding scale. The Clinic is located in Room 207 in the Health Technologies Hall on the Toledo-area campus. owens.edu
Dining out Koi Sushi
All you care to eat, from an impressive selection
By Alexander Cohen
Until last month, if Toledoans wanted all-you-can eat sushi, they had to drive to Detroit or Cleveland or settle for a generally disappointing array of rolls at a Chinese buffet. No longer. With the opening of Koi Sushi, in the former Red Crab location in Library Plaza on Dorr St just east of Reynolds Road, an all-you-can-eat Japanese cuisine experience has arrived in Toledo.
Easy ordering and a great value
Like many all-you-can-eat sushi restaurants, such as the Cleveland area’s Kintaro chain, Koi offers a paper menu where customers identify their selections. Yimei Chen, one of the owners, explained that this
reduces ordering time. She’s right: Because each menu item is small—an order of nigiri is a bite of sliced fish over rice; a plate of shumai consists of three smaller dumplings—and diners tend to order a lot of items.
All-you-can-eat is such a great choice for sushi as that serving format allows diners to choose specific items at a lesser cost. On a conventional sushi menu, if you order by the piece, it quickly becomes expensive, while if you order a sushi entree, the fish selections are generally “chef’s choice.”
At Koi, diners can select their pieces at a price comparable to chef’s choice plates.
Choice is supreme
And there are quite a few items to choose from. Koi offers the usual nigiri, the standard rolls and hand rolls, and—like most sushi places— some distinctive rolls of its own. It offers sashimi for an extra charge and some special sushi-bar items in limited quantities along with a decent number of kitchen items.
Despite this writer’s practice of generally eschewing special rolls, Chen recommended the ‘crazy monkey roll’ and the questionably named ‘twin towers roll’ which both offered remarkably subtle combinations of flavor.
Koi’s standard sushi is good, sometimes very good, but not exquisite. As is common at all-you-can-eat places, the slices of fish in the nigiri can be slightly smaller than if you are paying by the piece. And the rolls can include seemingly too much filler ingredients, like spicy mayo, and too little fish.
Beyond sushi options
dinner ($23.95) at 3 pm. Beverages are purchased separately, and the charge for children is based on their height.
Although the restaurant is called Koi Sushi, the kitchen menu, which is included in the all-you-can-eat package, is where it excels. Two items that stand out: The shumai, a small shrimp dumpling, and the chicken yakitori, an item that Chen picked when asked to suggest for my order. The shumai was exceptionally flavorful, and the yakitori—well, maybe I’ve been underrating yakitori all my life and I should order it more. I was struck by the ‘almost crisp’ surface (this with no skin and no bitterness!) and the tender chicken beneath. Koi is a sushi place offering plenty to sushi-averse customers.
Koi’s all-you-can-eat prices are separated for lunch and dinner for all seven days of the week, with prices changing from lunch ($17.95) to
Chen told me she has been in the Japanese-restaurant industry since she came to the United States from China. She started out as a server in New Jersey, and this is the second restaurant she has owned. Chen, along with her two partners, decided to use the all-you-can-eat platform because it saves money for customers, which provides an advantage in the postCovid market. The Toledo location was selected because the restaurant scene here did not include all-youcan-eat sushi yet.
Now, thanks to them, it does, and when I say, “Thanks to them,” I mean it: I will keep returning to Koi.
Koi Sushi. 4941 Dorr St. 419-407-5390. koisushitoledo.com
EVENTS December
FRIDAY 6
[markets & shopping]
Miracle on Main Street
Two-day event celebrating Sylvania’s holiday spirit. Enjoy the festive atmosphere downtown with seasonal vendors and unique shopping opportunities. 6pm. Also on Saturday, Dec. 7, 11am. Red Bird Sylvania, Main St., Sylvania. redbirdsylvania.org
TUESDAY 3
[floristry]
Gather & Graze: Winter Centerpiece
Join Angel 101 and learn how simple using natural elements can be to create something beautiful for your own home. Ticketed. $95. GATHER by Angel 101, 139 W. Third St., Perrysburg. shopgather101.com
TUESDAY 10
[meditation]
Mindfulness and Creativity - with the Toledo Mindfulness Institute
This workshop explores the intersection of creativity and intentional presence. Registration is required. 6-7pm. Point Place Branch Library, 2727 117th St. toledolibrary.org. FREE
FRIDAY, DEC. 20
[film, Christmas]
An Evening with Peter Billingsley and A Christmas Story
A Q&A with Peter Billingsley after a screening of A Christmas Story. $25-$104. 7pm. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. stranahantheater.com
SUNDAY 1
[markets & shopping]
Crafts for Christmas
A showcase of fine, handmade juried crafts, gifts, and holiday decorations to brighten your season. 11am-4pm. Lucas County Recreation Center, 2901 Key St., Maumee. toledocraftsmansguild.org
DEC/JAN 2025
Nativity Festival
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Nativity Festival features over 300 nativity scenes and 50+ themed trees, live music and family activities. Fridays and Sundays through Dec. 22. Sunday, Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, 4-7pm. Friday Dec. 6, 13, 20, 4-7pm. St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 428 N. Erie St. heartgalleryandstudios.com
www.mlivingnews.com
WEDNESDAY 4
[caregiving]
Caregiver Coffee – Caregiving Tips
Caregiving tips & open discussion. Connect with fellow family caregivers and share experiences. Join in person, online, or by phone. 2-3pm. MemoryLane Care Services, 2500 N. Reynolds Rd. To join by phone, call 872-240-1621 and enter conference ID 437 551 754# when prompted. memorylanecareservices.org
SATURDAY 7
[bake sales]
St. George Orthodox Cathedral Annual Cookie Walk
Annual Cookie Walk featuring homemade treats and Middle Eastern pastries. Cash or check only. St. George Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral, 3754 Woodley Rd., (419) 475-7054.
[Christmas, parks & gardens]
50th Annual Holidays at the Manor House
Celebrate the holidays at one of Northwest Ohio’s most festive events! Each year, community volunteers turn of the 30,000-square-foot Manor House into a holiday wonderland. Runs daily through Sunday, Dec. 15. 10am-8pm. Wildwood Preserve Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave., metroparkstoledo.com
[markets & shopping]
Cork & Knife Holiday Market
Join Cork & Knife Provisions for an Open House. Enjoy takeaway break fast, drinks, fantastic vendors and a selection of C&K pantry, food and decor items. Build your own gift basket! 9am-2pm. Cork & Knife Provisions, 224 S Erie St. corkandknifeprovisions.com
[Christmas]
WINTERFEST: Libbey House -
Tour the Libbey House exploring the magic of Christmas. $5. 11am-4pm. Libbey House, 2008 Scottwood Ave. libbeyhouse.org
[markets & shopping]
Holiday Night Market - Enjoy a throwback department store experience. Two levels filled with local artisans, oneof-a-kind gift ideas, food, drinks and music. 4-10pm. Fifth Third Building, One Seagate. toledonightmarket.com
SUNDAY 8
[markets & shopping]
Christmas by the Lake Gift Market
Enjoy holiday shopping at the historic Toledo Yacht Club with local vendors and artisans, a cash bar, a bake sale and poinsettias. The Toledo Yacht Club, 3900 N Summit St.
[concerts]
Handel's Messiah
Experience the power of music at Rosary Cathedral, as Alain Trudel and the Toledo Symphony bring this masterpiece to life. Ticketed. $40. 4pm. Rosary
TUESDAY 10
[caregiving]
Can We Talk? How to Have Better Conversations with Your Older Relative
As we age, both the brain and body undergo physical and cognitive changes that can impact how we communicate and understand others. This program will explore those changes and provide practical strategies to enhance communication with older adults. In-person and virtual. MemoryLane Care Services, 2500 N. Reynolds Rd. memorylanecareservices.org/events
WEDNESDAY 11
[caregiving]
Caregiver Coffee with MemoryLane Staff- Thinking of Transitioning to a Nursing Home or Assisted Living?
Gain caregiving tips & open discussion to connect with fellow family caregivers and share experiences. Join in person, online, or by phone. 2-3pm. MemoryLane Care Services, 2500 N. Reynolds Rd. memorylanecareservices.org
FRIDAY 13
[theater]
It's A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
The beloved holiday classic comes to life live on stage as a 1940's radio broadcast. Ticketed. 7pm. Also on Saturday, Dec. 14, 7pm and Sunday, Dec. 15, 2pm. The Village Players Theatre, 2740 Upton Ave. thevillageplayers.org
[concerts]
Candlelight: Holiday Special featuring The Nutcracker and More
Experience music inspired by the winter and holiday spirit at The Summit, illuminated by the warm glow of candlelight. Ticketed. $32-$55.50. 6:30-7:45pm. The Summit Toledo, 23 N. Summit St. feverup.com
[concerts]
A Musical Merry Christmas
From heartwarming tributes to showstopping numbers, A Musical Merry Christmas is the perfect way to celebrate the season with family and friends. Ticketed. $11.63-$48.39. 7-9pm. Also on Saturday, Dec. 14, 7-9pm. Maumee Indoor Theater, 601 Conant St., Maumee. maumeeindoor.com
SATURDAY 14
[Christmas, parades]
Light Up the Night
Enjoy Christmas carolers, special holiday shopping, cookies, crafts, and a free hot cocoa bar throughout the day. End the evening with the festive Light up the Night Parade! 9am. Downtown Grand Rapids, Front St., Grand Rapids. visitgrandrapidsohio.com
[history, learning]
Birckhead Place - A Unique Toledo Historic District
Explore the rich history of the Birckhead Place neighborhood, tracing its journey from Toledo's early years to the present day. 1-2pm. Main Library, 325 N Michigan St. toledolibrary.org. FREE
SUNDAY 15
[markets & shopping]
Winter Festival of Crafts
Pick up last-minute holiday gifts or decorations. 10am-4pm. Franciscan Center at Lourdes University, 6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania. toledocraftsmansguild.org
[choral, craft beer]
Carols & Ales presented by whateverandeveramen.
Carols & Ales combines classic Christmas carols with traditional drinking songs for a holiday celebration unlike any other. Ticketed. $20. 6-9pm. Also on Monday, Dec. 16, 6-9pm. Earnest Brew Works Downtown Toledo, 25 S. St. Clair St. whateverchoir.org
WEDNESDAY 18
[seniors]
Advance Care Planning - Presented by Hospice of Northwest Ohio
Join Sara Chambers from Hospice of Northwest Ohio to learn how to complete a living will, designate a medical power of attorney and register as an organ donor. 10-11am. Heatherdowns Branch Library, 3265 Glanzman Rd. toledolibrary.org. FREE
THURSDAY, Dec. 19
[lunch, learning]
Lunch & Learn
Meet new people, and enjoy a delicious meal based on the gallery exhibit theme. December’s theme is “Carols of the Nativity,” seasonal songs related to the Nativity Festival Exhibit. Lunch is by donation and parking is free. Reservations are appreciated to kate@ stpaulstoledo.org. Noon-1:30pm. HeArt Galleries & Studio, 428 N. Erie St. heartgalleryandstudios.com
FRIDAY, Dec. 20
[film, Christmas]
Silver Screen Classics - It’s A Wonderful Life
See the classic Christmas fantasy drama on the big screen. Ticketed. $5. 7:30pm. Also on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2pm. The Valentine Theatre, 410 N Superior St. valentinetheatre.com
SATURDAY, Dec. 21
[birdwatching]
Count Birds Because Birds Count! Learn about our resident feathered friends through bird activities and games. All ages. This program coincides with Audubon's 125th Christmas Bird Count. $3. Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 4139 Girdham Rd., Swanton. metroparkstoledo.com
[yoga]
All Ability Yoga
Experience yoga with modifications to suit your individual needs. Explore traditional poses, either in a chair or on the mat, to improve muscle tone, practice mindful breathing and enhance your overall sense of well-being. Registration is required. The Ability Center, 5605 Monroe St, Sylvania. abilitycenter.org
[concerts]
A Very Jazzy Christmas Winner of the 2023 International Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition, Toledo native April Varner returns to the Peristyle for an unforgettable evening of holiday jazz favorites, joined by the Toledo Jazz Orchestra and guest conductor Andrew Bishop. Ticketed. $15-$72. 8pm. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. artstoledo.com
SUNDAY 22
[concerts]
A Trans-Siberian Orchestra Tribute by Siberian Solstice!
Enjoy a unique blend of traditional Christmas music and classical pieces, infused with electronic keyboards, drums and guitars. Siberian Solstice, with 10 talented members on stage, perfectly captures the signature style of Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO). Free will donations are welcomed. St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 428 N. Erie St. siberiansolstice. com
FRIDAY 27
[art museums]
Great Art Escape
Bring your friends and family for a festive celebration filled with art, music and winter cheer! Also on Saturday, Dec. 28 and Sunday, Dec. 29. 11am. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. toledomuseum.org
[theater]
JANUARY
Wildlife Veterinarian
Dr. Reichard, MS, DVM, served as the Toledo Zoo's chief veterinarian
expertise, he will share highlights from
TUESDAY 7
[health & wellness]
Cardiology and Heart Health presented by Mercy Health
Dr. Hemindeermeet Singh, an Interventional Cardiologist with Mercy Health Perrysburg Cardiology, will discuss heart-healthy living, including understanding your risk, making healthier choices and steps to reduce your chances of heart disease. 2-3pm. Way Public Library, 101 E Indiana Ave., Perrysburg. waylibrary.info
THURSDAY 16 [film]
Classic Movies at Locke - Citizen Kane (119 Min), PG
Bi-monthly classic movies shown on the Locked Library Branch’s big screen. 11am-2pm. Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. toledolibrary.org. FREE
TUESDAY
28
[women, politics & government]
Election Debrief: Feminist Conversations on the Path Forward
Discuss the impact of the 2024 election cycle on feminist issues and its implications for women at the local, state and national levels. 6:30-8pm. Toledo Heights Branch Library, 423 Shasta Dr. toledolibrary.org. FREE
SATURDAY 18
[genealogy]
Explore Genealogy Resources at Main Library
Discover the wealth of genealogy research materials in the Local History and Genealogy Department that aren't available online. Explore resources exclusive to the Main Library and enhance your family history search! 1-2pm. Main Library, 325 N Michigan St. toledolibrary.org. FREE
THURSDAY 23
[learning, technology]
Introduction to eMedia
Learn how to access and download the library's eMedia collection. Please bring your own e-device, an active email address, library card, and PIN number. Registration is required. Contact the Kent Branch at 419-259-5340 to register. 11am-noon. Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. toledolibrary.org. FREE
Chicago remains the ultimate Broadway classic, delivering a dazzling mix of fame, fortune, and all that jazz. With show stopping songs and breathtaking choreography, it’s a musical experience like no other! Ticketed. $39-$104. 7:30pm. Also on Friday, Jan. 24,7:30. Saturday, Jan. 25 at 2pm and 7:30pm. Sunday, Jan. 26 at 1pm and 6:30pm. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. stranahantheater.com
[nature & wildlife]
Nature Walk through the Winter
Start your day with a crisp morning walk in the woods searching for signs of wildlife and seasonal changes. Afterward, warm up by the campfire and savor a cup of delicious hot cocoa. Registration is required. To register, please email or call Laura at lrodriguez@blackswamp. org or 419-833-1025. Black Swamp Conservancy - Bell Woods, 4825 Sugar Ridge Rd., Pemberville blackswamp.org
SUNDAY 26
[choral, craft beer]
Robert Burns Night presented by whateverandeveramen. Join whateverandeveramen. for an evening of poetry and music honoring the life and works of the Ploughman Poet. Ticketed. $20. Earnest Brew Works Downtown Toledo, 25 S. St. Clair St. whateverchoir.org
FRIDAY 31
[automobiles]
Toledo Auto Show
The Toledo Automobile Dealers Association presents the 2025 Toledo Auto Show, showcasing new vehicles and the latest interactive technologies for consumers and car enthusiasts alike! Noon-9pm. Also on Saturday, Feb. 1, 10am-9pm and Sunday, Feb. 2, 10am5pm. Glass City Center, 401 Jefferson Ave. toledoautoshow.org MORE
FUN WITH GRANDKIDS!
DECEMBER
SATURDAY 7
Christmas Movies at the Peristyle!
The Toledo Symphony presents a family-friendly afternoon of mischief and adventure with nostalgic Christmas movies at the Peristyle. Ticketed. $15-$55. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. artstoledo.com
FRIDAY 13 - SUNDAY 15
Toledo Ballet w/ The Nutcracker
Toledo Ballet’s annual production of The Nutcracker continues to delight audiences of all ages and remains a holiday tradition. Ticketed. $25-$72. Also on Sat, Dec 14, 2024, 2pm and 7pm. Sun, Dec 15, 2024, 2pm. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. artstoledo.com
FRIDAY 27 - SUNDAY 29
The Great Art Escape
Enjoy a festive celebration filled with art, music and the magic of winter cheer! 11am. Also on Sat, Dec. 14 and Sun, Dec. 15, 11am. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. toledomuseum.org
MONDAY 30
Harlem Globetrotters
The Harlem Globetrotters return to Toledo the week after Christmas. Ticketed. $35$135. 7pm. Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave.
huntingtoncentertoledo.com
JANUARY
THURSDAY 17 - SUNDAY 19
Cirque Du Soleil: Crystal
Experience world-class ice skaters and acrobats as they transform their frozen playground with breathtaking speed and fluidity, defying gravity through stunning, never-before-seen acrobatics! Ticketed. $37-$129. 7pm. Also on Fri, Jan. 17, 7pm, Sat, Jan. 18, 3pm and 7:00pm. Sun, Jan. 19, 1pm. Huntington Center, 500 Jefferson Ave. huntingtoncentertoledo.com
POINT & CLICK FOR MORE KID FRIENDLY EVENTS
THEATER
Toledo Repertoire Theatre’s A Christmas Carol
Based on the Charles Dickens novella, this production runs Dec. 5 through Dec. 15 for a Christmas adventure with Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit and three spirits — Christmas past, present and future. Come enjoy the story of spirit and redemption at The Toledo Rep, 16 Tenth St. For tickets or the theater’s full season schedule, go to toledorep.org.
Toledo Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Toledo Ballet continues its annual holiday tradition production from Dec. 12 through Dec. 15 at the Stranahan Theater. Tickets at artstoledo.com.
The Croswell presents Into The Woods
The Croswell features its annual all-area high school cast musical theater production this year with Into The Woods, from Jan. 25 to Feb. 2, 2025. Witness a mix of commonly known fairy tales into a comic, dark masterpiece. Adult tickets, $12 to $25. Student tickets $12. croswell.org
The Stranahan Theater welcomes Chicago: the Musical
See Chicago, Jan. 23 through Jan. 26, 2025, one of the longest running shows on Broadway with more than 10,000 performances, 6 Tony Awards, 2 Olivier Awards and a Grammy. Shimmy-shakes with jazz tunes will make you want to move your feet. This tour features Toledo native Christina Youngblood in the cast. Tickets from $39 to $104. stranahantheater.com
Scene
Photos By Christine Seneck
“Image Hungry” Exhibit at Odelot
“Image Hungry” is a solo exhibition of figurative oil paintings and illustrations by well-known Toledo artist Richard Reed. This is the inaugural exhibition at Odelot, the new gallery/event space located at 151 S. St. Clair St, the former Bozarts building. Friends and art lovers alike gathered for opening.
Photos by Christine Senack.
Jan Thomas, Richard Reed, Julie Traeger and Scott Ziegler.
SOLUTIONS SUDOKU & CROSSWORD
Mary Bowie and Kim Thanasiu.
Nick Muska and Joel Lipman.
Steven Athanas, Johnny Newmark and Larry Gold.
Jerry Gray, gallery owner and Richard Reed, artist.
PUZZLES SEE SOLUTIONS ON P.29
Across 1. Dublin’s country
5. Imitated
9. “Oh yeah, uh-huh!”
13. “Jurassic Park” menace, briefly 14. Oar pin
15. Card-game grouping
16. Senior’s org.
17. Contraction that’s a question
18. White Dudes For Harris grp.
19. Honest person
22. ___ tube
23. Ving of “Pulp Fiction”
26. “What’s going to happen then?”
30. Muscle strengthened by curls, informally
33. Man of the world
34. Chop suey sauce
35. They could be the highest or the lowest
36. Kid
37. Cook with dry heat
38. Place for thieves
39. Jewish folklore creature
40. Relief spot
41. “Everybody, come closer”
44. Stage direction
45. Baseball exec Bud
48. What one might do after stopping?
53. Opera solo
55. Station with a show
56. Bewildered
57. Album that earned Lamar a Pulitzer Prize for Music
58. Symbol of hardness
59. Convent residents
60. Loafer
61. Small amount
62. Black and White, for two
Down
1. Greek letters
2. Syrian’s neighbor
3. Any “Friends” episode, now
4. Broad stretches
5. Massage reactions
6. “Bear of very little brain”
7. London greeting
8. “Back to the Future” car
9. “My parents are gonna kill me!”
10. Lager and orange juice drinks
11. “Slippery” tree
12. NFL 6-pointers
14. Jerk
20. Not go out of service?
21. What have we here
24. Edible mushroom
25. Eye sores
27. “The Girl on the Train” author Hawkins
28. Furry swimmer
29. Replay feature
30. Sheriff’s shield
31. Glacier climber’s tool
32. 1/100th of a Uruguyan peso
36. Maine home to Allagash Brewing Company
37. Credit union’s write-offs
39. It builds character
40. Unique person
42. Compassionate
43. They do Windows
46. Time unit?
47. Actress Davis
49. Super duper?
50. Rock band Beach Weather, e.g.
JOKES
Why was Cinderella so bad at soccer? She kept running away from the ball!
“If there are any idiots in the room, will they please stand up?” said the sarcastic teacher.
After a long silence, one freshman rose to his feet.
“Now then, why do you consider yourself an idiot?” asked the teacher.
“Actually I don’t,” said the student, “but I hate to see you standing up there all by yourself.”
A guy is sitting at home when he hears a knock at the door. He opens the door and sees a snail on the porch. He picks up the snail and throws it as far as he can.
A year later, there’s another knock at the door. He opens it and sees the same snail. The snail says, “What was that all about?”
Why shouldn’t you use a broken pencil? Because it’s pointless.
51. Lend a hand
52. Brat’s comeback
53. TV spots
54. Pep-rally word
The wife and I took a long, leisurely drive out to the country and pulled over to fill up our car’s gas tank and tires... She was surprised to see that the station had a fee to fill the tires and asked me, “Why in the world do they charge for AIR?!”
I responded, “Inflation.”
What did the drummer name her twin daughters? Anna 1, Anna 2.
Why shouldn’t you tell secrets in a cornfield? Too many ears.
What do lawyers call santa’s elves? Subordinate clauses.
I asked my wife what she wanted for Christmas. She told me that nothing would make her happier than a diamond necklace. So I bought her nothing.
A gingerbread man went to the doctor’s complaining of a sore knee. The doctor asked him. “Have you tried icing it?”
HEARD ANY GOOD JOKES?
Send your favorites to mleditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com
Classifieds
The Elizabeth Scott Company 2720 Albon Road Maumee, OH 43537 419-865-3002
The Elizabeth Scott Company offers a variety of living units for seniors. Independent Living units are unfurnished one-bedroom and studio apartment models. Each apartment features walk-in closets (one-bedroom); with daily continental breakfast and dinner included. Amenities include a Resident Activity Center with fitness equipment; heated outdoor pool; daily social programs; utilities including Wi-Fi; and weekly housekeeping. Elizabeth Scott staff will also greet you every morning in your apartment. The Elizabeth Scott Community also offers two distinct levels of Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing if further care is needed. In September 2015, the Elizabeth Scott Community opened a 12,000 square foot Skilled Rehabilitation facility. The Skilled Rehabilitation facility offers state-of-the-art inpatient and outpatient treatment along with 14 private rooms with private baths. For more information, please email Matt Bucher at mbucher@elizabethscott.org or call 419-724-5021.
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HEALTH/MISC.
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