Toledo City Paper - March 2023 (Best of Toledo)

March

MARKETPLACE CHANGES

UPDATES IN LOCAL BUSINESS

„ Chris and Kristy’s Boutique, a new jewelry shop that specializes in lab-grown and conflict-free diamonds, stocks new, old and custom jewelry for any occasion. The Boutique is owned by Kristy Zander Binkowski and Chris Binkowski. 5658 Main St., Sylvania. 419-261-1751. chrisandkristys.com.

„ Fork & Compass is now open in the Petro Stopping Center near the interchange of I-280 and 80/90 in Perrysburg. The cafe has remodeled and now offers healthier selections, as well as staples like the Steer Burger Breakfast, Shrimp Tacos and Nashville Hot Mac and Cheese. facebook. com/ForkAndCompass.

„ The long-anticipated Kirin Asian Mart (Toledo’s largest Asian market) is now open for business on Secor Rd., in the same shopping center as QQ Kitchen. Slowly but surely, the shelves are being stocked with fresh produce, dumplings, ramen, mochi and much more. 3314 Secor Rd., Toledo. 419-725-1352. facebook.com/KamTF3314.

„ Sam, Phil and Tom Ciolino, proprietors of Ciolino Fruit & Vegetable Markets in Temperance since 1992, have retired and thank their loyal employees and customers for supporting them over the years. The business is now owned and operated by Firas and Amar Elia. 6750 Lewis Ave., Temperance. 734-847-4140. ciolinoproduce. com.

„ Sur Le Pouce bakery and 7 Little Cupcakes are now sharing a storefront in Perrysburg at 122 W. South Boundary. Menus from both bakeries are still available. 419-252-0858. 7littlecupcakes.com. 336508-7665. facebook.com/SurLePouceOhio.

„ Clean Juice opened a shop in Levis Commons, featuring cold-pressed juices, smoothies and protein smoothies, and a menu with avocado toast, wraps, acai bowls, sandwiches and salads. 3155 Levis Commons Blvd., Perrysburg. 567-331-8248. facebook.com/cleanjuiceleviscommons.

„ Papa Moose’s Donuts Maumee location has closed. Their Rossford store continues to operate, offering sweet treats, including the Elvis Donut, French Toast Donut, Lemon Sea Salt Donut, The Homer Donut or the Hot Mess Donut. Online ordering available. 165 Superior St., Rossford. 419-725-4433. papamoosesdonuts.com.

„ The east side has a new spot for dining and drinks: the Whiskey River Tavern. This bourbon, whiskey and cocktail bar features a traditional pub setting with a menu that pairs smoked BBQ with craft cocktails. 129 Euclid Ave. at 1st St. 255-352-6258. whiskeyrivertoledo.com.

„ Scooter’s Coffee is now open across from the Franklin Park Mall. Scooter’s is known for its nitro coffee and drivethru service. 4023 Talmadge Road at W. Sylvania Ave., Toledo. 419-469-2739. scooterscoffee.com.

„ Ralphie’s & JoJo’s Pizza to go location is now open in west Toledo. View the menu and place all carryout orders for pickup or curbside service. 5380 Monroe Street, Unit #2, Toledo. 419-517-1362. rtogosylvania. hrpos.heartland.us/menu.

„ Foster Craft Corner has opened a bricks and mortar shop at 8248A Mayberry Square, Sylvania. Choose from a selection of handmade tote bags, Christmas stockings, greeting cards, cloth birthday banners, tooth fairy pocket door hangers, and more. fostercraftcorner.com.

„ Northwest Ohio gained its second BIBIBOP Asian Grill restaurant in February - this one in Perrysburg. BIBIBOP has a 100% gluten-free menu, and serves a variety of Asian-inspired bowls. 10630 Fremont Pike, Ste. 1, Perrysburg. 416-5003162. bibibop.com/perrysburg.

„ Shobu by Kengo is now open to the public at Hollywood Casino. Enjoy traditional sushi & yakitori, a unique drink menu, quality service, fresh ingredients and feelgood vibes. 1968 Miami St., located inside Hollywood Casino, Toledo. 419-661-5066. shobubykengo.com.

„ Younique Boutique, women’s clothing and accessories, has relocated from Swanton to 1855 S. Reynolds Rd. in Toledo, in Diamond Plaza next to Olive Garden. 312-965-7488. youboufashion.com.

„ Josh Wagy’s long-awaited Farnsworth Cocktail Bar is now open. Located in a former bank, it has kept some relics of its former incarnation: the vault visible behind the bar will be used to store liquor and wine. The menu is headlined by oysters (raw and cooked) sourced from family farms around the country. 219 Farnsworth Rd., Waterville. 567-952-0162. farnsworthcocktails.com.

„ Uncle John’s Pancake House will be moving about a mile south this spring. Its new location will be on Secor just north of Dorr Street, in a building owned and managed by the University of Toledo. 419536-9442. unclejohnspancakehouse.com.

„ Belle Tire has acquired all 18 Tireman Auto Service Centers in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. Belle Tire is based in Allen Park, Mich. belletire.com.

„ Perrysburg Animal Hospital opens The Barn, its dog training center in March. Adjacent to the Animal Hospital, the space will offer training and doggy day care. 9310 Bass Pro Blvd., Rossford. 419-794-1189. perrysburganimalhospital.com.

„ CLOSING

Art & Soul, the gift shop located in the Main Library, has closed. The space will be reimagined as part of the Library’s upcoming new strategic plan.

Toledo Library’s Black History Archives

toledocitypaper.com

most

1. Renaissance Man: Sylvania producer up for two Grammys for work with Beyonce

2. Hollywood Casino Opens More Exciting Attractions

3. Ode to the Zip Code 2023

4. Chayhana: An Uzbek treat in Perrysburg Township

5. Roosters Wings opens in Sylvania

1-March 31, 2023 Vol. 26 • Issue 3

Co.

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledocitypaper.com)

I GOT A FEELIN BY THE BLACK EYED PEAS.

Co-publisher/ Chief Financial Officer

Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledocitypaper.com)

I WANT TO HOLD YOUR HAND BY REV. AL GREEN.

Editorial Assignment Editor: Kelly McGilvery (editor@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

(NOTHING BUT) FLOWERS BY TALKING HEADS.

Copy Manager: Riley Runnells (riley@adamsstreetpublishing.com )

CULT OF PERSONALITY BY LIVING COLOUR.

Contributing Writers: Janet Amid, Curtis Deeter, Jennifer Kellow-Fiorini, Jon Ruggiero, Tanner Wertz

Interns: Sneha Kamath

Advertising Sales Coordinator Libby Cassidy (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

THE LESS I KNOW THE BETTER BY TAME IMPALA. Account Executives: Gabbi Huff (ghuff@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

JUST A GIRL BY NO DOUBT. Bonnie Hunter (bhunter@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

UPTOWN FUNK BY MARK RONSON FT. BRUNO MARS. Jenny Leach (jleach@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

BLACK MAGIC WOMAN BY CARLOS SANTANA. Amy Bjarke (abjarke@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

AUDREY’S DANCE BY ANGELO BADALAMENTI. Destiny Rosemond (drosemond@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

IF I RULED THE WORLD BY NAS FT. LAURYN HILL.

Art/Production

Production Manager: Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

PUBLIC SERVICE ANOUNCEMENT BY JAY Z.

Senior Designer: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

RUNNING WITH THE DEVIL BY VAN HALEN. Digital Media: Nathaniel Light (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

RIGHT ABOVE IT BY LIL WAYNE (BUT THE LSU BAND VERSION).

Digital Media & Social Media: Margot Jacobs (margot@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

CAN’T YOU HEAR ME KNOCKING BY THE ROLLING STONES. Web Manager: John Borell (jborell@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

Administration Accounting: Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledocitypaper.com)

SEPTEMBER BY EARTH WIND AND FIRE. I WOULD BE DANCING UP TO THE STAGE!

Point

CITY POLITICS Cease fire

A recent history of gun violence in City Politics

By Johnny Hildo

The victims of Toledo’s epidemic of gun violence are increasingly younger. No City neighborhood is immune. The body count continues to rise as the blood washes along city streets.

What is to be done?

What ever the solution entails, we can be sure of one thing. It doesn’t include Carty

Yet there he is, providing nominal leadership to this group and that coalition, bloviating and offering a 10-point plan. Wait, that’s not quite enough, how’s a 12-point plan sound instead?

And while Carty and his ilk make political hay out of the ongoing tragedy, the suffering in city streets is real.

Lest we forget, this is the same Carty who demanded a “war on guns” as a candidate for Mayor against then-incumbent PHH’s re-election bid in twenty fifteen. And who furloughed seventy-five police officers after driving the city budget off the cliff as mayor in twenty oh nine.

Meanwhile city council candidate Michele Grim drubbed Carty’s twenty twenty-one ten-point plan as outdated and filled with “failed ideas” like curfews and gun buybacks. She then offered her own ten-point plan featuring street outreach, domestic violence prevention, and other deterrence ideas. The predictable political battle ensued.

And the gun violence continued unabated.

Back to the future

Guns, blood and ambition

Turn back the clock to twenty twenty. The depths of the pandemic brought an unnerving rise in violence involving firearms. It seemed every few days another dispute ended in gunfire.

The carnage did not go unnoticed, and Mayor Wade stepped up by announcing the Mayor’s Initiative to Reduce Gun Violence (or to Produce Re-election, or something like that).

By early twenty twenty-one Wade hired former football player and native Toledoan JoJuan Armour to lead the initiative. By August outreach staff were put on the streets.

Wade promised a public health approach to interrupting the violence. While the program was slow to get off the ground, data shows it was reasonably effective where it was focused, in the Junction-Englewood neighborhoods.

Lurking in the background ready to pounce for political gain was the everambitious Carleton S. Too slow, he fumed! Ten-point plan, he demanded! And promptly announced his candidacy for Mayor against Wade’s re-election bid.

Fast forward to twenty twenty-two. Carty lost his mayoral bid to Wade and jumped to lead a Coalition for a Peaceful Toledo. You read that right, the man known for throwing coffee cups and road rage calling for a peaceful Toledo.

Grim got elected to city council, forgot her ten-point plan, and then got elected to the statehouse. Armour resigned from Wade’s initiative, and Wade moved on to discussing police tactics to reduce gun violence.

Here we are in twenty twenty three. Guns continue to blaze across the city. Wade is seeking a new initiative by partnering with the group Cities United.

Carty’s group is renamed Coalition for Peaceful Toledo Neighborhoods and is now led by all living former Toledo mayors. Donna Owens, Carty, Mike Bell, and PHH recently released their own twelve-point plan. Filled with generalities like supporting neighborhoods and families. Along with more police and surveillance cameras.

So far this year at least seven teenagers have died of gunfire in the city. Fifteen-point plan, anyone?

Enough of plans and political posturing. We need action. Treat this epidemic like the public health crisis it is.

Who will step up to once and for all lead this charge?

“ Here we are in twenty twenty three. Guns continue to blaze across the city.”

March is Disability Awareness Month

Nothing for us, without us

that cannot easily be detected such as lupus, or chronic pain or Crohn’s disease. Individuals with mental health issues or other neurodivergent characteristics often present in a way that doesn’t divulge what they’re dealing with. So, one goal of advocacy promotion, like March’s designation as Disability Awareness Month, is to make people more aware that they cannot know and understand another person’s challenges simply by looking at them. As with many things in life, it’s best to assume that individuals that you encounter have good intentions while also considering that your impression of a person may not provide a full picture of their challenges.

Etiquette and terminology surrounding disabilities

When you encounter individuals with disabilities, ask them how they’d like to be referred to. The prevailing wisdom is to use “person first”, such as referring to someone as a “person with a disability.” That approach is preferable to describing them by the disability itself. Instead of describing someone as “an amputee,” say instead “person with a limb difference.” Instead of describing someone as “crazy”, refer to them as a person with a mental health issue. A person is not “confined to a wheelchair.” Rather, a person moves with a wheelchair, using it as a tool that allows mobility.

Although lending a helping hand can be greatly appreciated, don’t assume someone needs help — ask first or wait for them to ask you to help. Don’t push someone’s wheelchair without securing that person’s express permission. Assistance or working dogs are working — so don’t bother them; ask their human if you can interact with the dog.

Accommodations

Considering disability and an inclusive community

By Kelly McGilvery

The Ability Center of Toledo, in partnership with the Toledo City Paper, is championing the businesses and organizations that make their facilities accessible to individuals with differing abilities. In 2022, the Ability Center, the City of Toledo and several local cultural organizations announced a joint effort to make Toledo “the most accessible city in America.”

Toledo has a long history of supporting people with disabilities over more than a century. Here are a few examples: The Ability Center was designated by the State of Ohio as a Center for Independent Living in 1990, the same year the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed, as a one-stop resource for Ohioans with disabilities, providing a variety of programs and services. Recently, the Metroparks along with other local groups have built accessible playgrounds and outdoor spaces while the Toledo Museum of Art offers specialized tours for sight impaired visitors and those with dementia along with special sensory opportunities for those on the autism spectrum. The Toledo Ballet offers classes for young people with Down Syndrome and those on the autism spectrum and the Toledo Lucas County Public Library offers a selection of children’s books focusing on disability identity.

Stats about individuals with disabilities

One (1) in four (4) Americans has a disability and about 80% of those with a disability acquire it between the ages of 18 and 64. As people who study the effects of disability point out, many people are only temporarily able-bodied. A disability is a condition of the body or mind that makes it difficult for the affected person to do certain things in order to interact with the world around them. And awareness of invisible disabilities is on the rise.

One quarter of the US population is faced with a world that presents challenges to accomplish the activities of daily living. This forces individuals to create solutions in order to accomplish daily tasks, to be patient with others who are uninformed or not understanding of their challenges. Those with disabilities need to be persistent, to repeatedly attempt to complete tasks and projects without needed accommodations and they need to empathize to understand the frustration of others with their situation.

Many disabilities are not visible

A disability is often thought of as something physical, that can be seen, such as a person using a wheelchair, or a person wearing hearing aids or using a cane to navigate terrain. But there are also invisible disabilities

Ability Center Timeline

Most public buildings are now equipped with wheelchair-accessible entrances — ramps, curb cuts, pushbutton door openers. People with hearing impairment can access a closed-captioning device when watching a movie at the theater. Many public meetings are now simulcast on the web with closed captioning to accommodate people who may not be able to attend in person due to chronic illness, fatigue or pain or who cannot hear what’s being said.

Consequently, recently there has been a rise of diagnoses and accommodations in the workplace for people whose brains work differently. A resource to review and to facilitate a discussion with your manager is the Ask Job Accommodation Network, askjan.org , which lists accommodations that are helpful to people with different types of disabilities.

The Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation, a part of the state agency Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, is a local resource which can help pay for equipment needed for people with disabilities to be able to thrive in a work environment. A Job Accommodation Network study found that 60% of workplace accommodations can be made at no cost, while the remainder of workplace accommodations have an average cost of less than $500.

Local resources

In addition to programming, the Ability Center of Greater Toledo is a clearinghouse for information about local disability services and resources. Review the Center’s comprehensive toolkit at abilitycenter.org/toolkit

Luann has a chronic illness that you cannot see: lupus. Her filtering mask indicates that she is protecting herself (and those around her) from COVID and other illnesses. Sometimes, a person may be wearing headphones in public because they have a sensory processing issue. (PHOTO COURTESY OF DISABLED AND HERE.)

Toledo businesses

Making Toledo a sensitive destination for neurodivergent visitors

By David Bernard

welcoming for people living with autism.

Several area businesses and organizations are being recognized as Certified Autism Centers, a designation bestowed by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards to entities that have completed autism-specific training.

“I am a certified autism travel professional,” said Jayme Mazur, relationship manager for Destination Toledo, the first marketing firm in the Toledo region to be granted CAC status. “We have gone through training to help us to give service and support to neurodivergent people.”

Mazur said the certification process provided by the IBCCES is approximately four hours and covers ways to make specific businesses sensory-friendly to people with autism. Each business that has more than 80 percent of its employees take the sensory-friendly educational course earns the title of Certified Autism Center.

Several area businesses have earned or are in the process of earning CAC status, including the Wingate Hotel, Toledo Museum of Art, the Valentine Theater (which was the first Toledo business to earn the certification), Huntington Arena, Glass City Center, Sylvania Chamber of Commerce and the National Museum of the Great Lakes.

“Huge shout out to the Valentine

Theatre,” said Mazur. “They were the first Toledo business to become a CAC. They saw the need and they pursued it on their own.”

Mazur said that Toledo is currently on track to becoming a Certified Autism Destination, which is aimed to attract new visitors to the area and expand accessibility offerings.

“The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards autism certification is an important step in Toledo’s pursuit to becoming an inclusive and welcoming destination for all,” said Lance Woodworth, president and CEO of Destination Toledo. “Visitors should feel confident planning a trip to a certified destination knowing their specific needs will be addressed and the barriers to traveling will be eased.”

As more Toledo businesses become CACs, the city is on track to become the second Certified Autism Destination in the nation, according to Mazur. The first was the California city of Visalia, which received its CAD status last month.

“We are well on our way to becoming the second CAD in the country,” said Mazur. “Between 20 and 28 businesses must become CACs in order to become internationally recognized as a CAD.”

For more information on business sensory training, visit ibcces.org.

learn more about disability with these books & films

FILM/TV

CODA stands for child of deaf adults and this film shows the experience of one CODA who wants to pursue a career in music but worries about abandoning her Deaf parents.

Crip Camp, a documentary about Camp Jened, a summer camp in the Catskills for young people with disabilities. In the 1970s, it was one of the first places to truly embrace teens with disabilities, many of whom were meeting friends like themselves for the first time. Several years later, many of those campers moved out to Berkeley, California, where their solidarity and activism shaped the city to their needs. Several went on to influence disability policies across America and internationally.

Sound of Metal, a drama featuring Riz Ahmed who plays a heavy metal drummer who loses his hearing. He obtains a cochlear implant but it causes more noise than signal, leaving him to adapt his life so that he can live surrounded by other Deaf people who communicate using sign language.

BOOKS

“Accessible America: a History of Disability and Design,” by Bess Williamson. A thorough history of how accommodations for disability developed in America throughout the 20th century. Beginning with designs for returning veterans with limb differences who needed to be able to perform at industrial jobs and drive themselves in an automobile. To the ways that prosthetics have been designed and utilized artistically to enhance function, performance and aesthetics.

“Being Heumann: An Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Advocate,” by Judy Heumann with Kristen Joiner. Judy Heumann has worked as an advisor on disability rights and policies to several U.S. Presidents and the World Bank. She contracted polio as a young person and has since used a wheelchair. She is one of the featured campers in the documentary Crip Camp, and was a founding member of the Berkeley Center for Independent Living. Her advocacy helped to develop and pass the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Convention on the Rights of Disabled Persons.

“Disability Visibility: First Person Stories from the Twenty-first Century,” edited by Alice Wong. This collection of essays from writers with disabilities demonstrates the broad spectrum of experience that disability produces - from a meditation on a guide dog to a manifesto on disability justice. A great book to get a sense of the landscape of disability experience.

“True Biz,” by Sara Novic. A novel that explores the spectrum of Deaf culture and experience at a school for deaf students. Includes portrayals that show the overlap between American Sign Language, cochlear implants and vocalization as well as cultural issues related to hearing loss in families, styles of education and socialization, and the insular and protective nature of the Deaf community.

“What Can a Body Do? How We Meet the Built

World,” by Sara Hendren. Hendren talks about the ways that design can adapt our world to respond and interact better with atypical bodies. From a vegetable peeler designed for a person with arthritis to a system of architectural design for a school for deaf students.

Accessibility Laws timeline

1955

Delaware becomes the first state to pass a law providing for accessible parking

1968

The Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) becomes law. All federal facilities began to be modified to be accessible and new structures would be designed fully accessible, with a mandate for parking spaces, signage and curb cuts.

1975

The Access Board forms. They worked with Amtrak to design accessible railroad cars and pushed for accessible airports.

1990

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) becomes law, banning discrimination based on disability in both private and public sectors. It also required access to programs, services, facilities, transportation, employment and communication, including an all-encompassing requirement that the closest parking spots be designated accessible parking.

1999

In its ruling on Olmstead v. L.C., the Supreme Court affirms that people with disabilities have the right to receive state-funded supports and services in the community rather than in institutional settings, changing the lives of thousands of people with disabilities who want to live in their own homes.

2004

First Disability Pride Parade, Chicago

2006

Tech accessibility gains ground as a Federal Court rules that the ADA protections also apply to websites that have connection to a physical place of public accommodation

Best toledo 2022 of

Welcome to Best of Toledo 2022!

Toledo City Paper announces the Best of Toledo 2022! More than half a million votes from loyal City Paper readers have determined this roster of the most in-demand local businesses, professionals and institutions. From community stalwarts to local upstarts, these selections, in over 200 categories, are the Toledo area’s Best of the Best!

Shops / Stores

FLORAL SHOP

Beautiful Blooms By Jen beautifulbloomsbyjen.com

RUNNER-UP: Bartz Viviano Flowers & Gifts

GREENHOUSE/NURSERY Hoen’s Garden Center hoensgardencenter.com

RUNNER-UP: Nature’s Corner

HOME/GIFT SHOP Fiddlestix fiddlestixboutique.com/

RUNNER-UP: Beautiful Blooms By Jen

ANTIQUE STORE Maumee Antique Mall maumeeantiquemall.com

RUNNER-UP: Consign-It! Home Interiors

FLOORING STORE

Carpets By Otto carpetsbyotto.com

RUNNER-UP: Modern Floors

FURNITURE STORE Appliance Center shopac.com

RUNNER-UP: La-Z-Boy

THRIFT/RESALE STORE Habitat For Humanity Restore mvhabitat.org/restore/restore

RUNNER-UP: Toledo Humane Society Thrift Store

MALL/SHOPPING AREA Franklin Park Mall visitfranklinparkmall.com

RUNNER-UP: Fallen Timbers

PLACE TO BUY A PIECE OF TOLEDO Jupmode jupmode.com

RUNNER-UP: Libbey Glass

LOCALLY-OWNED

WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE Ragazza ragazzaclassic.com

RUNNER-UP: Hip To The Groove

LOCALLY-OWNED

MEN’S CLOTHING

Szar’s Men’s Shop szar-s-mens-shop.hub.biz

RUNNER-UP: Diamond’s Men’s Shop

BRIDAL SHOP

Atlas Bridal Shop atlasbridalshop.com

RUNNER-UP: Belle Amour Bridal

Presenting Sponsor

We

NEW STORE

The Green Crow 1135 Dixie Highway, Rossford. 419-386-2997. greencrowplants.com

The Green Crow is Toledo’s first and only mobile house plant store. Found at Farmer’s Markets and festivals throughout the Toledo metro area, The Green Crow also has a brick and mortar location. The Green Crow specializes in potted house plants for plant parents of all experience levels, but the store also sells apparel and art based on Green Crow owner Greer Bowley’s creations. Greer and her husband, Matt, who handles the business side of the store, encourage people to follow their social media and message with any questions.

RUNNER-UP: Luscious Bath Bomb Boutique lusciousbathbombs.com

JEWELRY STORE

Harold Jaffe Jewelers haroldjaffe.com

RUNNER-UP: David Fairclough Fine Jewelers

OPTICAL SHOP

Perrysburg Eye Center perrysburgeyecenter.com

RUNNER-UP: Optical Arts

SEXY BUSINESS

Pleasure 365 pleasure365.com

RUNNER-UP: Lindsay Nicole Studio

MEAT/BUTCHER

House Of Meats houseofmeats.com

RUNNER-UP: Zavotski’s Meat & Deli

SPIRITUAL SHOP

Reger’s Church Supply regers.com

RUNNER-UP: Angela’s Angels Gift Shop

LIQUOR STORE

Joseph’s Beverage Center josephsbeveragecenter.com

RUNNER-UP: Pauken Wine & Liquor

RETAIL WINE SELECTION

Joseph’s Beverage Center josephsbeveragecenter.com

RUNNER-UP: Walt Churchill’s Market

CANDY STORE

Boyd’s Retro Candy Store boydsretrocandy.com

RUNNER-UP: Maumee Valley Chocolate And Candy

VAPE SHOP

Wild Bill’s Tobacco wildbillstobacco.com

RUNNER-UP: Nice Cloud Vapor

CIGAR SHOP

The Cigar Affair thecigaraffair.com

RUNNER-UP: Port Royal Cigars

MEDICAL CANNABIS DISPENSARY Lume lume.com

RUNNER-UP: URB

CBD SHOP

Toledo Hemp Center toledohempcenter.com

RUNNER-UP: Lume

BEST TECH REPAIR Razelle razelle.com

RUNNER-UP: Maumee Geeks

GAMING/COMIC STORE Monarch Comics monarchcomics.net

RUNNER-UP: Old School Gaming

POP-UP MARKET

Toledo Farmers Market toledofarmersmarket.com

RUNNER-UP: Perrysburg Farmers Market

APPLIANCE STORE

Appliance Center shopac.com

RUNNER-UP: Durocher’s

WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS

Brick House Tattoo & Co. facebook.com/brickhousetoledo

RUNNER-UP: The Green Crow

THANK YOU TOLEDO

Now you HAVE us smilinG

CLEANING SERVICE

Carissa’s Green Cleaning Services

3030 W Sylvania Ave., Toledo. 419-764-9610.

Carissa’s Green Cleaning LLC on Facebook

For those looking to get quality cleaning services, Carissa’s Green Cleaning is the answer. Carissa’s Green Cleaning offers commercial and residential cleaning services. Per the business name, Carissa’s Green Cleaning prides itself on using all natural green cleaners that are good for the environment and for your place being cleaned. For more information, or to schedule a cleaning, Carissa’s Green Cleaning encourages clients to call, visit its Facebook page, or email carissasgreen@yahoo.com.

RUNNER-UP: Molly Maid

Services / Places

LANDSCAPER Glass City Lawn & Landscape glasscitylawnandlandscape.com

RUNNER-UP: Padilla Landscape & Lawn

HANDYMAN Handy Hubby handyhubbytoledo.com

RUNNER-UP: Blair Johnson, BMJ Enterprises

HOME BUILDER

Maumee Valley Habitat For Humanity mvhabitat.org

RUNNER-UP: Homes By Josh Doyle

A Walk in the Park now offers Enrichment Daycare. Different from the traditional, all-day, large-group play, daycare model, A Walk in the Park incorporates a structured approach to your dog’s daily routine to offer increased enjoyment and fulfillment. The modern idea of doggy daycare is evolving, and we want to be part of the change. Our Enrichment Daycare program offers dogs mental and physical stimulation by creating games and puzzles, environments for stimulating their various senses, small group socialization, outdoor activities, as well as rest periods and other learning opportunities! Your dog will come home from our program happy and optimistic about what the world has to offer!

REMODELING Kleeberger Contracting Services kleebergercs.com

RUNNER-UP: A+ Home Improvements

WINDOWS AND DOORS Dunright Building Services dunrightbuildingservices.com/

RUNNER-UP: Toledo Door & Window

KITCHEN AND BATH Home Solutions Of Maumee Valley homesolutionsofmv.com/

RUNNER-UP: A+ Home Improvements

JUNK REMOVAL SERVICE

Jeff’s Hauling & Cleanup

Search FB for “Jeff’s Hauling and Cleanup”

RUNNER-UP: Select Sanitation

ROOFING COMPANY Holt Roofing holtroofing.com

RUNNER-UP: Shingle & Metal Roofs LLC

HEATING AND AIR SERVICE M&M Heating & Cooling mandmheating.com

RUNNER-UP: Shrek Heating & Air Conditioning

PLACE TO BUY A CAR

Yark Automotive Group yarkauto.com

RUNNER-UP: Dave White Chevrolet

AUTO SALESPERSON Just Drive With Jess justdrivewithjess.com

RUNNER-UP: Angie Carslanger

AUTO REPAIR Ambrosia’s Automotive ambrosiasautomotive.com

RUNNER-UP: Hasty’s Complete Automotive Service

EUROPEAN AUTO REPAIR Ambrosia’s Automotive ambrosiasautomotive.com

RUNNER-UP: Waterville Import

Dermatology Associates is Northwest Ohio’s premier choice for comprehensive Dermatologic care.

Our Multidisciplinary team offers Mohs Micrographic Surgery, Medical Dermatology, Cosmetic Dermatology, and Dermatopathology

The professionals of Dermatology Associates and Ada Aesthetics continually strive to provide the most current diagnostic and therapeutic services, while maintaining their compassion for patient care. Our professionals and staff continually embrace community partnership through education and service.

Auto Service

CAR WASH

WhiteWater Express Car Wash

F.K.A. Russ’ Auto Wash facebook.com/russautowash3

RUNNER-UP: Expresso Car Wash & Express Lube

CAR DETAILER

Precision Auto Detailing precisionautodetailing.com

RUNNER-UP: Details By Sino

LIMO SERVICE

Childers Limousine Service

childerstransportation.com

RUNNER-UP: Team Johnson Limo

CATERER Michael’s Gourmet Catering, Inc. michaelsoftoledo.com

RUNNER-UP: Smokin’ Olive Deli

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER/ VIDEOGRAPHER

Kristen Nicole Photography

kristennicolephotography.com

RUNNER-UP: Heather Biddle Photography

WEDDING DJ DJ T.O.

deejaytomusic.com

RUNNER-UP: Book That DJ

WEDDING VENUE Toledo Zoo toledozoo.org

RUNNER-UP: The Stables

ROMANTIC GETAWAY Belamere Suites belameresuites.com

RUNNER-UP: Cannaley Treehouse Village (Metroparks)

EVENT PLANNER Event Prep theeventprep.com

RUNNER-UP: K&K Events LLC

PROFESSIONAL FRAMING SERVICE

We’ll Frame It wellframeit.com

RUNNER-UP: DeVaul’s Fine Framing

DRY CLEANER

Lasalle Cleaners lasallecleaners.com

RUNNER-UP: Twin Oaks Cleaners

3505 W

TAILOR/SEAMSTRESS

Sew-N-Such sew-n-such.com

RUNNER-UP: Sew Beyond Blessed

WEDDING TAILOR/SEAMSTRESS

Sew Beyond Blessed sewbeyondblessed.com

RUNNER-UP: Stitch 2 Stitch

MARINA/BOAT CLUB

Toledo Sailing Club toledosailingclub.com

RUNNER-UP: River View Yacht Club

PET ADOPTION SERVICE

Toledo Humane Society toledohumane.org

RUNNER-UP: Lucas County Pit Crew

PET DAYCARE/BOARDING A Walk In The Park awalkintheparkoftoledo.com/

RUNNER-UP: Karnik Pet Lodge Toledo

PET GROOMING Shaggy Chic facebook.com/ shaggychicgroomingsalon

RUNNER-UP: A Walk In The Park

DOG TRAINING FACILITY

Canine Karma caninekarma.org

RUNNER-UP: K9 Connection School for Dogs

PSYCHIC/ASTROLOGER

Kimmie Rose LITE THE WAY litetheway.com

RUNNER-UP: Janet Amid

TATTOO SHOP/STUDIO

Ink & Iron Tattoo Parlor inkandirontattoo.com

RUNNER-UP: Amity Ink

TATTOO ARTIST

Jordyn Tinney

BRICK HOUSE TATTOO facebook.com/brickhousetoledo

RUNNER-UP: Sailor Woody, Infinite Art

BEST PIERCER

Piercings By Caitlin toledobodypiercing.com

RUNNER-UP: Whitey, Needle Masters

WINDOW CLEANER

419 Window Cleaning 419windowcleaning.com

RUNNER-UP: Black Swamp Window Cleaning

PLACE TO ENJOY

YOUR DORA BEVERAGE

Downtown Toledo downtowntoledo.org

RUNNER-UP: Downtown Perrysburg

BOWLING ALLEY

Forest View Lanes forestviewlanes.com

RUNNER-UP: Timbers Bowling Lanes

GOLF COURSE/CLUB

Brandywine

Country Club brandywinecc.com

RUNNER-UP: Legacy By Arthur Hills Golf Club

COUNTRY CLUB Inverness Club invernessclub.com

RUNNER-UP: Sylvania Country Club

APARTMENT COMPLEX Mosaic

AT LEVIS COMMONS mosaicleviscommons.com

RUNNER-UP: Commodore Perry Apartments

LOCALLY OWNED BUSINESS WE MISS Social Gastropub socialgastropub.com

RUNNER-UP: Ahmed’s Steakhouse

BEST PLACE TO MEET SINGLES

The Village Idiot villageidiotmaumee.com

RUNNER-UP: CedarCreek Church

BEST PLACE TO PLAY TABLE TOP GAMES

Hollywood Casino hollywoodcasinotoledo.com

RUNNER-UP: Old School Gaming

Continued from P. 17

ACUPUNCTURIST

Carol Kremer

SERENITY HEALTH & WELLNESS serenitywellness1.com

RUNNER-UP: Tamara TCM

CHIROPRACTOR

Dr. Jamie Mahaney

SERENITY HEALTH & WELLNESS serenitywellness1.com

RUNNER-UP: Dr. Shawn Brohl, Spring Meadows Chiropractic

AUDIOLOGIST

Sarah Delauter

Chelsey Wenner, TOLEDO CLINIC toledoclinicent.com

RUNNER-UP: Clint Keifer, Great Lakes Audiology

DENTIST

Dr. Jon Frankel

JON FRANKEL DENTISTRY jonfrankeldentistry.com

RUNNER-UP: Believe Dental Care

DENTAL HYGIENIST

Kendra Tinney

BROOKVIEW DENTAL brookviewdental.com

RUNNER-UP: Olivia Saalfrank, Jon Frankel Dentistry

ORTHODONTIST

HLs Orthodontics perfectbraces.com

RUNNER-UP: Kay And Paulus Orthodontics

DERMATOLOGIST

Dermatology Associates daohio.com

RUNNER-UP: Dr. David Kouba, Toledo Clinic Facial Plastics and Dermatology

DOCTOR Dr. Seth Phillips MERCY HEALTH mercy.com

RUNNER-UP: Dr. Janelle Sullivan, The Pediatric Center

NURSE Kelly Kohler

TOLEDO CLINIC ENT toledoclinicent.com

RUNNER-UP: Derek Wilcox, St. Anne’s Hospital - Mercy Health

EAR, NOSE AND THROAT DOCTOR

Dr. Christopher Perry

TOLEDO CLINIC ENT toledoclinicent.com

RUNNER-UP: Dr. Vincent Toma, McLaren Hospital

LIFE COACH

Krisi Vadnais, Coach Krisi Toledo. 419-346-6034. coachkrisi.com

Krisi Vadnais has her own business, Coach Krisi, where she shows off her skills of being a certified hypnosis practitioner and life coach. Vadnais claims to help by “bringing out your inner badass,” and zeroing in on where you are now and what direction you want to head in. Vadnais teaches tools to promote growth and customizes sessions to each client’s satisfaction. For more information on Vadnais’ methods and services, visit her website, or check out Coach Krisi on Facebook for events and videos.

RUNNER-UP: Dr. Deitra Hickey, Serenity Health & Wellness serenitywellness1.com

EYE CARE PROFESSIONAL

Dr. Angela Jackson QUALITY FAMILY EYECARE qualityfamilyeyecare.net

RUNNER-UP: Dr. Michele Schlagheck, Vision Associates

PLASTIC SURGEON

Arrowhead Plastic Surgeons

arrowheadsurgeons.com

RUNNER-UP: Dr. Frank Barone, Evolv Plastic Surgery & Medical Aesthetics

NATUROPATH

Dr. Maleigha Watts, TOLEDO NATUROPATHIC toledonaturopathic.com

RUNNER-UP: Dr. Jennifer Pfleghaar, PflegMed: Integrative Medicine

ADDICTION RECOVERY SERVICES

Arrowhead Behavioral Health

arrowheadbehavioral.com

RUNNER-UP: Racing For Recovery

THERAPIST/COUNSELOR

The Willow Center willowcenter.com

RUNNER-UP: Anchored In Hope Counseling

VETERINARIAN Dr. Bart Soeder

HEATHERDOWNS

VETERINARY CLINIC heatherdownsvetclinic.com

RUNNER-UP: Dr. Brooke West, Perrysburg Animal Hospital

BANK Huntington Bank huntington.com

RUNNER-UP: Fifth Third Bank

CREDIT UNION

Glass City Federal Credit Union glasscityfcu.com

RUNNER-UP: Directions Credit Union

PHARMACY Toledo Clinic Pharmacy toledoclinic.com/healthcareservices/pharmacy

RUNNER-UP: Erie Drugs

FINANCIAL PLANNING FIRM Bull Moose Retirement Planning Co. bullmoosewealthcom

RUNNER-UP: Croak Asset Management

FINANCIAL ADVISOR Beau Barrow

GLASS CITY FEDERAL FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS glasscityfcu.com

RUNNER-UP: Mark Clair, Bull Moose Retirement Planning Co.

REALTOR Binger Show

RE/MAX PREFERRED ASSOCIATES thebingershowteam.com/

RUNNER-UP: Katie Timbrook, Key Realty

REAL ESTATE AGENCY Danberry Realtors danberry.com

RUNNER-UP: RE/MAX Preferred Associates

INTERIOR DESIGNER Mary Marshall

M&M INTERIORS mminteriors5.Com

RUNNER-UP: Rose Toth, RCI Interior Design

INSURANCE AGENT Scott Stigall

STATE FARM INSURANCE scottstigall.com

RUNNER-UP: Knight Insurance Group

ATTORNEY Brad Waugh

MALONE, AULT & FARELL maf-law.com

RUNNER-UP: Jeremy Levy, Law Office Jeremy Levy LLC

BAIL BONDS

Smith Bonds & Surety smithbondsurety.com

RUNNER-UP: Toledo Bail Bonds, LLC

AD AGENCY Madavegroup madavegroup.com

RUNNER-UP: Thread Marketing Group

WEB DESIGN/DEVELOPER Grow With Meerkat growwithmeerkat.com

RUNNER-UP: TouchStone Digital MOVING COMPANY

MVM Moving & Storage mvmmoving.com

RUNNER-UP: Perrysburg Moving

Beauty, Health & Wellness

WOMEN’S SALON Soto Signature Salon And Spa

KN Beauty Co.

MEN’S BARBER SHOP

Headhunters Barber Studio & Salon headhuntersbarbersalonstudio.com House Of Him

Serenity Health & Wellness Center serenitywellness1.com

RUNNER-UP: Soto Signature Salon & Spa

MEDI-SPA Serenity Health & Wellness Center serenitywellness1.com

RUNNER-UP: Ada Aesthetics

AESTHETICIAN

Jarrod Del Vecchio ADA AESTHETICS instagram.com/theskincareguy

RUNNER-UP: Jessica Jamieson, Love Yourself Beauty Bar

EYEBROW SPECIALIST

Jamie Ross

EYEBROSS ARTISTRY eyebrossartistry.com

RUNNER-UP: Kaitlyn Finley

HAIR STYLIST

Mikey Del Vecchio

DROP DEAD GORGEOUS SALON ddgorgeousllc.com/mikey-delvecchio

RUNNER-UP: Kati McCormack, Stilla Salon & Spa

NAIL SALON

Serenity Nail Salon & Spa serenitynailsmaumee.com

RUNNER-UP: Polished Nail Bar

BEAUTY SCHOOL Summit Salon Academy summitsalonacademyperrysburg.edu

RUNNER-UP: Penta Career Center

MAKEUP ARTIST

Lauren Updike

SOTO SIGNATURE SALON & SPA instagram.com/laurenupmakeup

RUNNER-UP: Shaylee Strauss, Raw Rooted Beauty

MEN’S BARBERSHOP

HeadHunters Barber Studio & Salon

26580 N Dixie Highway Unit 102, Perrysburg. 567-290-5905. headhuntersbarberstudiosalon.com

The HeadHunters Barber Studio & Salon is a place for men of all ages to get their hair cut that opened in 2021. This family-owned business offers adult men’s haircuts and kids’ haircuts, as well as other services like beard shaping and beard grooming, and eyebrow waxing. Women can also get their hair cut there, too, if that is preferred. You can find the full menu of services on the HeadHunters Barber studio & Salon website, and learn more about the barbershop through the salon’s Facebook page of the same name.

RUNNER-UP: House of Him shop.thehouseofhim.com

MASSAGE THERAPIST

Dani Schall, LMT, MMT, FSP massagebook.com/ Toledo~Massage~DaniSchall

RUNNER-UP: Danica Gineman, Studio 101 Salon & Spa

HOLISTIC HEALTH CENTER

Serenity Health & Wellness Center serenitywellness1.com

RUNNER-UP: Axiom Lux

YOGA STUDIO

Essence Mind Body Studio essencembs.com

RUNNER-UP: LiveFIT

BOUTIQUE FITNESS

STUDIO/CLASSES

Renegade Fitness renegadefitnesstraining.com

RUNNER-UP: Red Line Circuit Training

BOOTCAMP STUDIO

Vault Health & Fitness vaulthealth.fit

RUNNER-UP: Renegade Fitness

GYM/ATHLETIC CLUB LiveFIT livefitperrysburg.com

RUNNER-UP: Red Line Circuit Training

PERSONAL TRAINER

Erin Higgins

VAULT HEALTH & FITNESS vaulthealth.fit

RUNNER-UP: Jason Mercurio, Red Line Circuit Training

YOGA INSTRUCTOR

Diana Spiess, ESSENCE MIND BODY STUDIO essencembs.com

RUNNER-UP: Glory Meyer, LiveFIT

PHYSICAL THERAPY PT Link ptlinktherapy.com

RUNNER-UP: Alternative Physical Therapy

NUTRITION COUNSELING

Adam Dunckel, VAULT HEALTH & FITNESS vaulthealth.fit

RUNNER-UP: Renegade Fitness

ETHNIC GROCERY

Sofo’s Italian Market shopsofos.com

RUNNER-UP: Stanley’s Market

LOCAL GROCERY

Walt Churchill’s Market waltchurchillsmarket.com

RUNNER-UP: Monnette’s Market

NATURAL FOOD STORE

Health Foods By Claudia healthfoodsbyclaudia.com

RUNNER-UP: Bassett’s Health Foods

DINER Schmucker’s Restaurant schmuckersrestaurant.com

RUNNER-UP: Mayberry Diner

COFFEE SHOP Sip & Brew facebook.com/sipandbrew.westalexis

RUNNER-UP: Brew House Maumee

DONUTS Wixey Bakery facebook.com/wixeybakery

RUNNER-UP: Holey Toledough

PIZZA

The Village Idiot villageidiotmaumee.com

RUNNER-UP: Homeslice Pizza

BURGER JOINT

Ye Olde Durty Bird yeoldedurtybird.com

RUNNER-UP: PerrysBurgers

The Real Seafood Company realseafoodcorestaurant.com

RUNNER-UP: Mancy’s Bluewater Grille

SUSHI Kengo Sushi & Yakitori kengotoledo.com

RUNNER-UP: Spicy Tuna Sushi Bar & Grill

HOT DOGS

Rudy’s Hot Dog rudyshotdog.com

RUNNER-UP: Tony Packo’s BBQ

Shorty’s True American Roadhouse shortystoledo.com

RUNNER-UP: Smokehouse 734

ICE CREAM Mr. Freeze instagram.com/mymrfreeze

RUNNER-UP: Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream

INDIAN RESTAURANT Tandoor tandooroftoledo.com

RUNNER-UP: Star of India

ITALIAN RESTAURANT Rosie’s Italian Grille rosiesitaliangrille.com

RUNNER-UP: Inky’s Italian Food

MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT The Beirut beirutrestaurant.com

RUNNER-UP: Souk Mediterranean Kitchen & Bar

MEXICAN RESTAURANT Cocina De Carlos cocinadecarlos.com

RUNNER-UP: Te’kela

FOOD TRUCK

Maybe Cheese Born With It

Location varies, Toledo. 419-245-8056. maybecheesebornwithit.com

Already famous in Toledo for her drag performances, Sugar Vermonte made a name for herself with Americans across the country for her run on The Great Food Truck Race, as the proprietrix of Maybe Cheese Born With It. After filming the show, she was back in Toledo, hustling mac and cheese at events around the community. Great for all the times when you need a snack served with a little flair and a lot of sequins.

RUNNER-UP: Beastro Burger Truck

ASIAN RESTAURANT QQ Kitchen qqkitchen.com

RUNNER-UP: Nagoya Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi

STEAKHOUSE Mancy’s Steakhouse mancyssteakhouse.com

RUNNER-UP: Benchmark Restaurant

DINNER AND LIVE MUSIC The Village Idiot villageidiotmaumee.com

RUNNER-UP: Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room

BEST PLACE FOR A CELEBRATORY TOAST The Heights theheightstoledo.com

RUNNER-UP: Benchmark Restaurant

BEST PLACE FOR A FIRST DATE The Heights theheightstoledo.com

RUNNER-UP: Basil Pizza & Wine Bar

FOOD DELIVERY SERVICE Dine In Delivery Bedford didbedford.com

RUNNER-UP: Deliver Toledo

Drinks

NEIGHBORHOOD BAR Sidelines Sports Eatery & Pub sidelinessportseatery.com

RUNNER-UP: The Distillery

BREWERY Inside The Five insidethefivebrewing.com

RUNNER-UP: Earnest Brew Works

WINERY Urban Pine Winery urbanpinewinery.com

RUNNER-UP: Majestic Oak Winery

SPORTS BAR

Sidelines Sports Eatery & Pub sidelinessportseatery.com

RUNNER-UP: Shawn’s Irish Tavern

Scott Stigall, ChFC 419-865-3585 scottstigall.com

Scott Stigall, ChFC 419.865.3585 scottstigall.com

Stubborn Brother stubbornbrother.com

RUNNER-UP:

IRISH

Shawn’s Irish Tavern shawnsirishtavern.com

RUNNER-UP:

LGBTQ+

Georgjz419 georgjz419.com

RUNNER-UP:

RUNNER-UP:

DRAG SHOW

Hamburger Mary’s hamburgermarys.com/toledo

RUNNER-UP: Georgjz419

LOCAL DISTILLERY Toledo Spirits Company toledospirits.com

RUNNER-UP:

VISUAL ARTIST (PAINTING AND DRAWING)

Kimberly Moll

facebook.com/kimberly.moll.33

RUNNER-UP: Karla Von Deylen

VISUAL ARTIST (GLASS, SCULPTURE & INSTALLATION)

Monkey Gnome

facebook.com/monkeygnome

RUNNER-UP: Studio Z Toledo

PHOTOGRAPHER

Carrie Mccaughtry

Photography carriemccaughtry.com

RUNNER-UP: Busy Bea Photography

INDEPENDENT GALLERY

Art On Market Shoppes facebook.com/artonmarket

RUNNER-UP: River East Gallery

PLACE TO BUY LOCAL ART Toledo Museum Of Art toledomuseum.org

RUNNER-UP: Handmade Toledo

ART CLASSES

Toledo Museum Of Art toledomuseum.org/

RUNNER-UP: The Art Supply Depo

DANCE CLASSES Company C Dance Club companycdanceclub.com

RUNNER-UP: Ballet Theatre Of Toledo

FILMMAKER Hivemind Films instagram.com/hivemind_films

RUNNER-UP: Gabe Rios-Hannon

LOCAL AUTHOR/WRITER

Katie Maskey

facebook.com/katie.maskey

RUNNER-UP: Neaira Williams

LOCAL THEATER GROUP Toledo Rep toledorep.org

RUNNER-UP: Oregon Community Theatre

LOCAL ACTOR/PERFORMER

Kaylie Amaya facebook.com/kamayaflowarts

RUNNER-UP: Sunny Hooplove

PLACE TO PAINT AND SIP Wine & Canvas wineandcanvas.com

RUNNER-UP: Tote & Go Canvas LLC

FOLLOW US FOR UPCOMING LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULES

3560 DORR ST. AT BYRNE

PRINT JOURNALIST

Jeff McGinnis

One of the Toledo City Paper’s very own, Jeff McGinnis, won the best print journalist award. After his passing in September 2022, the Toledo City Paper staff and City Paper readers were deeply saddened, but proud to remember all of the great work he did within this publication. Between his work as a radio personality, his prolific writing, and his vast pop culture knowledge, Jeff’s talents spanned many categories. He is dearly missed.

RUNNER-UP: Rebecca Regnier rebeccaregnier.com

LOCAL TV STATION

Wtvg 13abc 13abc.com

RUNNER-UP: WTOL Channel 11

BEST ANCHOR DUO

Lee Conklin & Diane Larson, WTVG 13ABC 13abc.com

RUNNER-UP: Jeff Smith & Melissa Andrews, WTOL Channel 11

SPORTSCASTER

Jordan Strack, WTOL CHANNEL 11 wtol.com

RUNNER-UP: Dan Cummins, WTOL Channel 11

METEOROLOGIST

Jay Berschback, WTVG 13ABC 13abc.com

RUNNER-UP: Chris Vickers, WTOL Channel 11

WE’RE THROWING PARTY The

FRIDAY MARCH 24

RADIO STATION

Proclaim FM proclaimfm.com

RUNNER-UP: Yes FM

RADIO SHOW

Randomosity

TOLEDO’S ONLY VINYL RADIO SHOW facebook.com/randomositypodcast

RUNNER-UP: The Morning Mix, Proclaim FM

LOCAL PODCAST

Randomosity

TOLEDO’S ONLY VINYL RADIO SHOW facebook.com/randomositypodcast

RUNNER-UP: The Positive Chats Podcast

SINGER

Steve Long

facebook.com/streetwizeband

RUNNER-UP: Chris Shutters

COVER BAND

Streetwize

facebook.com/streetwizeband

RUNNER-UP: Union Rising

BAND (ORIGINALS)

Sanctus Real sanctusreal.com

RUNNER-UP: Chris Shutters Band

BLUES/JAZZ ARTIST

Buzz Anderson

facebook.com/ thebuzzandersonproject

RUNNER-UP: Abbigale Rose

HIP HOP ARTIST

She Speaks

artistecard.com/shespeaksmc

Part of the wonderful local arts scene in Toledo is musicians like She Speaks, a hip hop artist with a message. Real name Robin Jones-Shaffer, She Speaks has been working on her craft since she was seven or eight years old doing poetry competitions. She pours herself into all of her lyrics, and has a stage presence like no other. For more information on She Speaks, you can visit her website. You can listen to her music by searching She Speaks on Apple Music, Spotify or wherever you stream.

RUNNER-UP: B. Wills

B. Wills on Facebook

RUNNER-UP: Audioflesh

KARAOKE NIGHT

Buster Brown’s Lounge facebook.com/ busterbrownsbigdoglounge

RUNNER-UP: Bier Stube Bar & Grill

MUSIC VENUE

The Distillery distillerytoledo.com

RUNNER-UP: The Village Idiot

RECORD STORE

Allied Record Exchange

alliedrecordexchange.com

RUNNER-UP: Culture Clash

MUSIC LESSONS

Forte Music School

fortemusicandarts.com

RUNNER-UP: Miss Jennie’s School Of Dance

PLACE TO BUY A MUSICAL INSTRUMENT

Small Box Music smallboxmusic.com

RUNNER-UP: Rettig Music

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD

Sylvania cityofsylvania.com

RUNNER-UP: Perrysburg

SUBURBAN DOWNTOWN

Sylvania cityofsylvania.com

RUNNER-UP: Perrysburg

NONPROFIT EVENT

Acoustics For Autism (Project I Am) acousticsforautism.com

RUNNER-UP: Bark In The Park (Toledo Humane Society)

BEST FESTIVAL

German American Festival germanamericanfestival.net

RUNNER-UP: Old West End Festival

CHARITY/NONPROFIT

Toledo Humane Society toledohumane.org

RUNNER-UP: Bittersweet Farms

COLLEGE

University Of Toledo utoledo.edu

RUNNER-UP: Bowling Green State University

INSTITUTION WE’RE PROUD OF Toledo Zoo toledozoo.org

RUNNER-UP: Metroparks Toledo

BEST PLACE TO SHOW OFF TOLEDO TO OUT-OF-TOWNERS Toledo Zoo toledozoo.org

RUNNER-UP: Toledo Museum Of Art

BEST HOTEL

Renaissance Toledo Downtown

renaissance-hotels.marriott.com

RUNNER-UP: Maumee Bay Resort

HIGH SCHOOL

Sylvania Southview High School

sylvaniaschools.org

RUNNER-UP: Central Catholic High School

PRIVATE SCHOOL

Central Catholic High School

centralcatholic.org

RUNNER-UP: St. Ursula Academy

VOCATIONAL SCHOOL/ COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Owens Community College owens.edu

RUNNER-UP: Penta Career Center

HOUSE OF WORSHIP St. Pius X Catholic Church spxtoledo.org

RUNNER-UP: CedarCreek

EVENT THAT MAKES YOU PROUD TO BE A TOLEDOAN Jeepfest toledojeepfest.com

RUNNER-UP: Mud Hens Opening Day

SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT Lucas County

Sheriff’s Office facebook.com/lucascountysheriff

RUNNER-UP: Dougiefresh

Member FDIC. © 2023 Huntington Bancshares Incorporated.

UNION

Local 92 Toledo FireFighters

714 Washington St., Toledo. 419-244-8129. local.iaff.org

Toledo Firefighters Local 92 is home to more than 500 professional firefighters, EMTs and paramedics. Since 1918, the Local 92 has represented firefighters that have grown to over 18 fire stations located throughout the city. The department has a rich history and many emergency services including fire, hazardous materials incidents, water rescue, confined space rescue and homeland security.

RUNNER UP: UAW Local 12 uawlocal12.org

POLITICIAN Marcy Kaptur marcykaptur.com

RUNNER-UP: Josh Williams

POLICE OFFICER

George Kral twitter.com/gkraltoledo

RUNNER-UP: Bobby Chromik

FIREFIGHTER

Stephanie Mcgill toledofirerescue.com

RUNNER-UP: Trent Morrissey

BEST DRESSED MAN DJ T.O. deejaytomusic.com

RUNNER-UP: Jason Mercurio

BEST DRESSED WOMAN Chrys Peterson chryspeterson.com

RUNNER-UP: Michelle Garee

LOCAL CELEBRITY

Guy In The 419 guyinthe419.com

RUNNER-UP: Jason Mercurio, Red Line Circuit Training

PRIVATE CLUB

Toledo Club

235 14th St. 419-243-2200. toledoclub.org

The Toledo Club is the premier private club with history and tradition to spare. Operating since 1889, the downtown club is available for business meetings, special dinners, parties and open to the public as an outstanding wedding venue. The Toledo Club has full-service athletic facilities, business and social accommodations, but can also double as a venue for fine dining or casual drinks. For more information on how to join the club, visit its website.

RUNNER-UP: TolHouse tolhouse.com

Education plays a crucial role in shaping one’s personal and professional life. It provides individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen fields, enhances their critical thinking abilities, and enables them to make informed decisions in their personal lives. Pursuing specialized education offers numerous benefits that can positively impact someone’s career, financial stability, and overall well-being. We hope that this guide will help you make an informed decision about the best school for your child. Remember, every child is unique, and no single school is right for everyone. We encourage you to visit the schools on our list and speak with teachers, staff, and current parents to determine which school is the best fit for your child’s individual needs.

POPPERS

Behold the bouquets of March

If there’s a cozier way to spend a winter’s evening than testing wines at the Toledo Museum of Art’s Glass Pavilion while watching artists blowing glass, we’re not sure what it is. TMA’s Cafe and Catering Team present an Ides of March-themed wine tasting on Friday, March 10 from 6:30-8:30pm. Wines from eastern Italy will be paired with exciting local dishes. This event is a partnership with Ann Kisin from Vintage Wine Distributor, Inc. and Diana Kerr Brown from Skurnik Wines. Get your tickets online early - this event will sell out. $35 TMA members, $50 non-members. 2444 Monroe St., Toledo. 419-255-8000. toledomuseum.org.

Season’s greenings

Looking for new drink options for your St. Patrick’s Day? Registry Bistro presents its monthly craft cocktail workshop on Thursday, March 16 from 6-8pm, and the focus will be Better than the Green Beer! Crafting with Beer. Learn hands-on how to make the cocktail, enjoy some light “nibbles and nosh,” and have a great time with friends. Call Registry to reserve your spot, as space is limited. $35 per guest + tax & gratuity. 144 N. Superior St., Toledo. 419-725-0444. registrybistro.com.

New to the Game

Brandywine Country Club is holding its annual Wild Game Dinner on Saturday, March 18. Doors open at 5pm, dinner will be served at 6pm, and a raffle drawing will be held at 7pm. Attendance is limited, so call to reserve your spot. $75 includes the wild game buffet, beer and many chances to win prizes. 6904 Salisbury Rd., Maumee. 419-865-2393. brandywinecc.com.

A perfect arrangement

Blooms and Botanicals is the latest in a fun series of event collaborations at Toledo Spirits. On Thursday, March 22 at 7pm, Beautiful Blooms By Jen will present a floral design class and guests will create their own arrangement while enjoying a special themed cocktail menu that features botanical elements. Tickets available at Eventbrite. $55 includes the class, floral arrangement in a Toledo Spirits rocks glass to take home and one complimentary cocktail. Additional drinks will be available for purchase. 1301 N. Summit St., Toledo. 419-662-9521. toledospirits.com.

CHOW LINE

Georgette’s

This Maumee oasis brings sunshine to the community

By Curtis Deeter

From lane reductions to a new Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) to almost finished roadway improvements on the Anthony Wayne Trail, Uptown Maumee has seen its fair share of changes over the last few years. But one thing that hasn’t changed (for the most part) is a mainstay eatery, Georgette’s Grounds and Gifts — a place to step away from the hustle and bustle of Conant Street (and day-to-day life), to enjoy a cup of coffee and a hot bite to eat all while supporting a great local cause.

Sunshine Communities, serving northwest Ohio

Established by Roy and Georgette Engler, who had five children with developmental disabilities, Sunshine Communities, Inc. provides residential, vocational, clinical, therapeutic and recreational services throughout the Northwest Ohio region. The main campus is located in Maumee with Georgette’s acting as an extension of their mission by employing Sunshine Community members and staff. Sunshine’s mission is “to create community among people with developmental disabilities, their families, friends and staff . . . by offering services that enable all of us to build relationships that enhance our lives through mutual caring and growth.” The coffee shop is a concise demonstration of community building as visitors sense the Sunshine Community values the moment they walk in the door.

More than a cup of coffee

Black coffee drinkers beware, Georgette’s Café Miel, a Spanish favorite with honey and a heavy sprinkling of ground cinnamon, is just the brew to convert you. Sweet, flavorful but robust, allowing the underlying roast to shine through, it is the perfect drink for a cold morning. The shop offers a wide variety of seasonal brews, along with sodas, smoothies, teas, and more. If you are in a rush grab coffee beans to brew at home. At Ray and Georgette’s original home on Maumee Western Road, Sunshine employees carefully prepare and package each blend. “Our mission and goal with every cup, and every sip, is to bring a little more sunshine into the world.” Their bean selection is sustainably sourced and supports growers in developing countries.

Food for thought

After selecting a brew, the shop’s food choices offer a modest selection of breakfast items — sandwiches on English muffins, paninis, avocado toast, oatmeal, burritos, quiche and freshly baked bread — which vary daily. Choosing an avocado and egg panini on sourdough, the sandwich came out fast and hot. It looked so good we forgot to snap an Instagram foodie pic.

For lunch, Georgette’s offers seasonal salads, soups and sandwiches from a menu which rotates selections from cooks constantly coming up with new dishes. Georgette’s also has an extensive baked goods selection. When finished with your meal, grab a fresh baked cookie, doughnut, muffin or cinnamon roll to take with you.

Good change

When we wrote that Uptown Maumee’s mainstays haven’t changed (for the most part) that referenced the fact that at the end of December, Georgette’s familiar backroom gift shop relocated to Sunshine Studio at 305 Conant Street, just two doors down. That move opened up a large sitting/gathering place inside the coffee shop, allowing for more fair-trade gifts and artisan crafts to be displayed. Georgette’s provides local artists with a venue to sell their artwork while they also offer classes in ceramics and stained-glass.

Whether through Sunshine Communities’ various services, Georgette’s delicious coffee and food, or Sunshine Studio’s celebration of the arts, the Englers have created a community worth supporting. 311 Conant Street, Maumee. 419-891-8888. georgettes.org/

Toledo screening of AAFF experimental films with live soundtrack

Bending Minds and Dreaming Louder takes place Thursday, March 9 from 7-10pm at Dream Louder, 303 Morris St., in downtown Toledo. This partnership between the Ann Arbor Film Festival and the Dream Louder music studio presents the Cincinnati-based music duo Turtledoves performing with a selection of experimental films from the 61-year history of the Ann Arbor Film Festival. There is no admission fee but donations are encouraged.

The Ann Arbor Film Festival is the oldest independent and experimental film festival in North America and is internationally recognized as a premier forum for film as an art form. The 61st Ann Arbor Film Festival takes place in person and online March 21-26 (continuing online through March 29) with 108 films in competition from 40 countries.

Dream Louder is a creative production studio based in Toledo that specializes in music for film, commercial music and sound design. Turtledoves is the musical project of Ashley and Alex McGrath. Exploring the balance between lo-fi electronics and acoustic instruments, the husband/wife duo creates harmonically rich soundscapes consisting of labyrinthine melodies, ambient textures and layered vocals. facebook.com/ dreamloudermusic/

Bee hospitality

The Toledo Lucas County Public Library presents a special film and craft event twice this month: Saturday, March 4 from 2:30-4pm at the West Toledo branch and Wednesday, March 22 from 6:30-8pm at the Oregon branch. Screen the documentary “My Garden of a Thousand Bees” by acclaimed wildlife filmmaker Martin Dohrn. This one-hour movie follows the acclaimed wildlife filmmaker during a Covid lockdown, turning his lenses on the surprising and spectacular bees living in his urban garden in Bristol, England. After the screening, assemble a bee hotel, a space of shelter and rest for bees that are not part of a hive. The West Toledo branch library: 1320 Sylvania Ave., Toledo. 419-259-5290. The Oregon branch library: 3340 Dustin Road, Oregon. 419-259-5250. Register online as space is limited: toledolibrary.org

APPEAL REEL Avant garde cinema in A2

The 61st AAFF brings the best of world cinema to the midwest

By Jennifer Kellow-Fiorini

For 61 years the Ann Arbor Film Festival has brought experimental and avant-garde cinema from across the globe to Michigan. The Festival allows filmmakers who step outside the confines of a linear narrative, to tell their stories with an accent on sensory experience, using film as art in rebellious, uncompromising ways. Scott Boberg is Deputy Director of the Festival, a new position created last August. Toledo City Paper sat down with Boberg to learn the lowdown on this year’s Festival which will feature 207 films, many of them shorts, along with 12 feature films. Festival dates, March 2129, will showcase films chosen from entries submitted over the summer.

Festival origins and influence

The festival got its start when George Manupelli, a filmmaker and instructor at the University of Michigan, decided to create a place, outside of Hollywood and the New York art scene, for avant-garde and experimental film in the Midwest. The festival started on campus for artists to get together to screen unusual films that had been submitted by filmmakers. Creating a place for creative expression that wasn’t tethered to the expectations of commercial filmmaking provided a chance to share ideas with other filmmakers. Throughout the years, artists like Andy Warhol and filmmakers like a young George Lucas, showed their films at the festival. In 1977, the band Devo debuted their film, “Are We Not Men,” which became a first-place winner, demonstrating that experimental film can have an influence on popular culture. In 1973, “Frank Film” by Frank Morris, an 8-minute animated short, won the Festival’s first-place award and went on to win that year’s best animated short at The Academy Awards.

The Ann Arbor Film Festival is a qualifying festival for the Academy Awards. If a film wins one of three awards, one of which is the Ken Burns Documentary Award, that film will be considered for the Academy Awards. In the past 50 years, over a dozen films nominated at the Academy Awards built momentum at AAFF, with a half dozen or so winning. Boberg rightly points out that this creates a bridge between more known films and the Festival as a gateway to audiences discovering experimental and boundary-pushing films.

Highlights

“This year’s festival has 2,800 entries with over half of those films coming from other countries,” explains Boberg. “It’s incredible that there is awareness around the world about this festival from places as far away as Nepal. The features are a mix of experimental narrative films and documentaries — there is even a category for music video.” Screenings will be held at Ann Arbor’s Michigan and State Theaters (and on campus for 35mm projection). Boberg points out that there will be film and video installations around the city, adding, “Some will play off early motion picture devices like the nickelodeons of the early 20th century. At the Ann Arbor Arts Center, a filmmaker that does live manipulations of images that are projected using various materials like broken glass along with live music improv, will host a workshop. Filmmaker Amir George, a Festival juror this year, will be showing a film about his own body of work in the context of the great African American artist, Romare Bearden, overlaying text onto Bearden images. Special events include an LGBTQ+ Out Night, and an all-ages program on Saturday morning curated by kids, for kids.”

A hybrid festival

While it’s always ideal to experience cinema surrounded by others in a theater, reach is important too. The online option for the Festival undeniably helps these films, particularly experimental films which do not receive a wide general release, to be discovered and enjoyed. This is the second year the festival will be hybrid — presenting both in person and online experiences — with films available for all 12 features starting Tuesday, March 21.

For more information on scheduling, events, tickets and passes, go to aafilmfest.org/.

In Huahua’s Dazzling World and its Myriad Temptations, a documentary directed by Daphne Xu, the titular star is shown livestreaming as she dances, sings and chats with fans

CURTAIN CALL NOTES THEATER

BGSU’s Elsewhere Theater presents “The Mockingbird”

BGSU’s Elsewhere Theater is featuring Julie Jensen’s adaptation of “The Mockingbird” March 31 and April 1 at 8 pm. The performance is directed by Alexis Reinbolt Tucker and will be held in the Eva Marie Saint Theatre, 315 University Lane, Bowling Green. The story follows an 11-yearold girl named Caitlin who is on the autism spectrum. After a mass shooting claims the life of her brother, Caitlin must grapple with the unthinkable. For more information, visit the BGSU Elsewhere website or call the box office at 419-372-8171.

Remembering RBG

All Things Equal brings the story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg to The Valentine Theatre

By Jon Ruggiero

The Village Players Presents “Now And Then”

The Village Players is putting on Sean Grennan’s play “Now And Then” for two weekends from March 24 to March 26, and March 31 to April 2 at The Village Players Theatre, 2740 Upton Ave. The play follows Jamie, a bartender, and his girlfriend Abby, who are both offered $2,000 to sit and have a drink with a desperate customer right before the bar closes. They talk for a while and face some unexpected turns in their conversation. “Now And Then” is a heartfelt romantic comedy that deals with how the choices we make affect us and those around us. Adult tickets $20, and senior/student tickets $18. For more information, visit thevillageplayers.org.

The Toledo Repertoire Presents “Peter and Wendy”

The Young Toledo Rep will perform “Peter and Wendy,” a classic tale with memorable characters. Adapted from the book by J.M. Barrie and featuring Peter, Wendy, John, Michael, Tinker Bell and more, “Peter and Wendy” will take place at the Toledo Rep, 16 10th St., from Friday March 24 through Sunday March 26, with varying times. Student/child tickets are $7.75, individual tickets are $11.75 and seniors 60 and over are $9.75. For more information or to buy tickets, visit toledorep.org or call 419-243-9277.

Toledo School for the Arts presents “Amelie: Teen Edition” For all the dreamers and quirky folks, Toledo School for the Arts has a show for you. The theater department is presenting “Amelie: Teen Edition,” Friday, March 10 at 7 pm and Saturday, March 11 at 2:30 pm and 7 pm in the TSA Attic Theater, 7713, 333 14th St. #4. This musical follows a young woman named Amelie who has to risk everything for a chance at love. Adult tickets $16, senior and student tickets $10. For more information, call 419-246-8732 or visit the TSA website.

Though she passed away in September 2020, the legacy of Ruth Bader Ginsburg won’t soon be forgotten. The legendary Supreme Court Justice was a larger than life figure who inspired millions with victory in the face of adversity throughout her career. The now-iconic figure is at the center of All Things Equal, a new stage production touring through the country that will make a stop at Toledo’s Valentine Theater in March.

All Things Equal is a one-woman play featuring the actor Michelle Azar as RBG, who is teaching the audience (who represents a friend of her granddaughter) about her life. Azar, a theater and television acting veteran, has done single-actor performances before, but an important aspect of RBG’s history was new to her: “I’m very unfamiliar with speaking legalese to an audience,” explained Azar.

The woman behind the woman

Michelle Azar has appeared on shows such as NCIS and Criminal Minds. When All Things Equal comes to the Valentine Theater, it will not be Azar’s first visit to the area. She had visited Temple Shomer Emunim in Sylvania five years ago. “I was in town for a performance of Stars in the Dust, which was composed by my uncle Samuel Adler (a Temple congregant).”

She has also performed on tour an acclaimed one-woman show called From Baghdad to Brooklyn. While she is “excited to get back to a touring” show like All Things Equal, this is an “enormously unfamiliar and daunting” experience bringing a “full-fledged human” to life, she explained.

“I don’t know, and I can’t possibly know, enough about her,” said Azar. Researching Ginsburg taught her a lot, and she wants to teach the audience what she learned. Azar explained that her career “as an actress has been about learning the psychology of a person, it’s what keeps us going as actors, asking ‘why do what they do?’ But it’s important for the play that I’m not playing a caricature or trying to do an imitation, I’m just paying homage to an important figure.”

Just a person

The most important thing Azar learned about Ginsburg is how “she was all about how a person is able to take a stand and fight for causes for others, no matter who they are. (Ginsburg) and I are Jewish, and being raised in that faith, we are asked to work towards repairing the world, and none of us can desist from that work. Sure, we may not see the end of the work, but it’s not up to us to finish it; we just need to take a stab at it.”

“Ruth knew better than most that people are just people - even ones who change the world. They were never looking to go down in history, they just saw something they wanted to change and did it, and that’s what (Ginsburg) did.”

To learn more about the massively important figure that is Ruth Bader Ginsburg, watch Michelle Azar embody the Supreme Court Justice in All Things Equal. Valentine Theatre, March 20th, 7:30pm. $29-$69. 410 Adams St., Toledo. 419-242-2787. valentinetheatre.com/

Actor Michelle Azar emphasizes a point, featuring the former justice in a crown and her dissent collar, the one she wore when she gave powerful and pointed opinions at odds with the majority.

BOOK NOTES

Code Endorsement

It is said that zip codes can determine health outcomes, school quality and even destiny. Do they also shape who we are and how we interact with the world? How does your zip code shape your life? Share what you love about your neighborhood by participating in the annual poetry contest Ode to the Zip Code 2023.

Ode to the Zip Code was created to hone in on what makes a place a home - to learn about some of the reasons we love where we live. The program, a partnership between the Fair Housing Center, the Arts Commission, Toledo-Lucas County Public Library, Lucas County Poet Laureate Jonie McIntire, United Way and Toledo City Paper. A selection of winning poems across several years of the contest was published last year. Find one at any local library branch. In years past, poems have also been displayed around town with sidewalk signage.

CITY PAGES

Northwest Ohio Teen Book Festival in Rossford

Second annual festival showcases authors

By Tanner Wertz

YOUR ZIP CODE IS MORE THAN AN ADDRESS, IT’S AN IDENTITY.

CALL FOR ENTRIES!

Submissions will be judged by a panel of local notables in writing and the arts. Cash prizes are available in several categories. Learn about poem guidelines, contest participation, and submitting your entry at toledocitypaper.com. Final submission deadline is Monday, March 6.

SEND US A POEM INSPIRED BY YOUR ZIP CODE.

Winners will be announced on 419 Day at the Main Branch of the Toledo Lucas County Public Library on Sunday, April 19 at 6pm. toledocitypaper.com/lit/ode2023/

Framing devices

Goosebumps, chills, a sense of awe. A dose of perspective. Have you ever tried to explain the effect great art has on your mind and soul? Consider participating in the Toledo Museum of Art Poetry Prize, an annual competition for writing about art. (Formerly known as the Ekphrastic Writing Contest: ekphrastic means writing about art.)

This year, the contest is focused on creative written responses to one of ten specific works of art at the Museum. The selected works of art span ancient through contemporary eras and include portraits, still lifes, landscapes, abstractions and sculpture. The works are listed on the Museum’s website and available as a PDF to download. The contest is open to children and adults.

Judges for the 2023 TMA Poetry Prize are: artist, writer and City Paper Production Manager Imani Lateef; writer, musician and Toledo School for the Arts teacher Justin Longacre; and Lucas County Poet Laureate Jonie McIntire. McIntire will lead a tour and writing workshop for adults on Saturday, March 4 at 1pm; Longacre will lead a tour and writing workshop for youth participants on Saturday, March 18 at 1pm. Registration is required for the workshops. TMA Poetry Prize entries must be submitted online by March 31. toledomuseum.org/education/tma-poetry-prize

Organized by JustWrite Ohio partnering with Gathering Volumes in Perrysburg, the second Northwest Ohio Teen Book Festival will be held at Rossford Junior/Senior High School on March 18. The Northwest Ohio Teen Book Festival is focused on teens and tweens of Northwest Ohio. As a volunteer organization made up of lovers of literature, who have come together to create a fantastic opportunity for teens to meet their favorite authors and to discover new authors.

CASH PRIZES!

for three categories: youth, young adult, and adult

JustWrite Ohio

Submit your entries February 1 - March 6 at toledocitypaper.com/lit/ode2023/

SPRING 2023

BFA Senior Thesis Exhibition

BGSU Fine Arts Center Galleries

MARCH 18-31

Opening Reception | March 18 | 5:30-7 p.m.

Free and open to the public For gallery hours, visit bgsu.edu/gallery

Puccini’s Messa di Gloria BGSU Choirs with the Toledo Symphony Rosary Cathedral, Toledo

MARCH 26 AT 4 P.M.

Tickets are available at toledosymphony.com/events

To see the full BGSU Arts Calendar, visit bgsu.edu/arts

To individuals with disabilities, please indicate if you need special services, assistance or appropriate modifications to fully participate in this event by contacting Accessibility Services at access@bgsu.edu or 419-372-8495. Please notify us prior to the event.

Finalists published in Toledo City Paper and Toledo Area Parent!

Poems must be 5 lines each, with the number of words in each line determined by the corresponding digit in your ZIP Code. Contact your Library for help completing the online form.

Hosted by:

JustWrite Ohio is a competitive creative writing program for 9-12 grade students across the state. The program strives to assist educators by providing instructional support for creative writing, inspiring, praising and building confidence in Ohio’s teens while helping them discover their own creative voice. The program engages teens to recognize the importance of literacy and the connections between reading and writing. The JustWrite program celebrates the voices of writers, as their words have the power to change the world.

Best selling authors

The festival will feature keynote speaker Natalie D. Richards, author of the New York Times bestselling books Five Total Strangers and Master of Suspense. Richards’ latest book, Seven Dirty Secrets, is a pulse-pounding YA thriller about a girl who goes on a mysterious scavenger hunt, only to discover that someone knows her worst secret and is out for blood. “Ms. Richards is a champion of aspiring authors and is a frequent speaker at schools and writing groups and we are so excited for her to encourage the teen writers of Northwest Ohio,” said Denise Phillips, Northwest Ohio Teen Book Festival organizing committee member.

Phillips hopes “that everyone that attends the event leaves having learned something new, having discovered a new inspiration, with renewed confidence in their own future. But most of all, I hope that they have a fun day surrounded by great books and amazing people. I hope their biggest takeaway is a realization that there are many book lovers out there and that we can all come together to create amazing stories together.”

The Festival includes a full lineup of author speakers, a festival scavenger hunt, a giveaway of advance copies of Natalie D. Richards’ latest book and more. The festival takes place Saturday March 18 from 9am-3:30pm at Rossford Junior/Senior High.

The event is free and open to the public. Schools can also register bus loads of students and, thanks to generous sponsors such as Taylor Automotive, schools can apply for a bus sponsorship to help and/or cover the cost.

In addition to the keynote address, the day-long event will include moderated author panels, breakout sessions, games, pitch wars and author signings. Gathering Volumes will be on site throughout the day offering the books of participating authors for sale. Authors will sign at the end of the day from 2:30-3:30pm.

For more information and registration for the Northwest Ohio Teen Book Festival, visit novateenbookfestival.com. For more information about JustWrite, visit justwriteohio.org.

Natalie D. Richards, New York Times bestselling author and keynote speaker at the Teen Book Festival on March 18.

IMAGE COURTESY OF DENISE PHILLIPS.

Seven Dirty Secrets, the latest book by keynote speaker, Natalie D. Richards. Image courtesy of Denise Phillips.

ART TO HEART

Tattooing in the Glass City

Toledo Tattoo Festival Organizer Jes Farris shares festival highlights

By Jennifer Kellow-Fiorini

CRAFTING AND DRINKS: DIY AFTER DARK

Every third Thursday from 6-9pm, join the crew at Handmade Toledo for DIY AFTER DARK. Bring a craft project to work on, a cooler with your drink and friends to chat with. Or come by yourself and get to know new-to-you crafters while working from one of the DIY kits available in the shop. Ask questions, see what other folks are making and maybe pick up a few skills while you’re at it. The event is free, but register ahead of time and receive 20% off any DIY kit in the shop. Thursday, March 16 from 6-9pm. 1717 Adams St., Toledo. 419214-1717. handmadetoledo.com.

THE EYES OF YVETTE REYES

Even if you’re a die-hard fan of the arts and culture in Toledo, there’s a chance you haven’t yet seen one of its gems, just down Broadway from downtown Toledo. The Sofia Quintero Art & Cultural Center pulsates with vital creative energy and is a cornerstone of the cultural community of South Toledo. Visit the Center’s Jose Martinez Memorial Galeria by Friday, March 17 to see the exhibition Yvette Reyes: An Anthology. Reyes is a self-taught artist who is inspired by personal life experiences and creates surrealist-adjacent paintings. Learn more about the artist at yvettemichellereyes.com. 1222 Broadway St., Toledo. 419-241-1655. sqacc.org/arts.

ATHENAAAAAA!

Tattoos are one of the world’s oldest art forms. For thousands of years humans have created designs on their bodies to commemorate love, remembrance or religion - designs that are as deeply personal as they are permanent. An event worthy of the artform launches April 21-23 with the Toledo Tattoo Festival at the Glass City Center, featuring over 200 tattoo artists from all over the world.

Teaching technique

Jes Farris, Festival organizer, explains “We started the process in 2019 but couldn’t get dates due to the pandemic, and then the Seagate Center, now the Glass City Center, started renovations, so it’s been a long process. Our company does a program called the Explorer Tattoo Conference, the largest professional learning conference for tattoo artists in the world. We bring the biggest names in tattooing to present, in a professional setting, seminars on technique. That’s where we started with events. By talking with tattoo artists, we realized they wanted more than the tattoo conventions that we all used to love. We hosted focus groups with the artists to determine how to make a convention better and it progressed from there. We did our first tattoo festival last year in Fort Wayne. This year the Toledo convention will be in April, with St. Paul in July and Fort Wayne, Memphis, and Grand Rapids also in 2023.”

Farris lived in Toledo for three years and owned a tattoo shop before closing in 2016 when organizing festivals and seminars became full-time work. Farris moved back to Fort Wayne for family reasons but wanted to produce the festivals as they bring a lot to cities economically. Toledo is a city Farris wanted to favor with a festival, saying that he “feels Toledo is really growing and wants to see events like this bring business to hotels, restaurants and small businesses.”

Top Talent, Cutting Edge Technique

“We are proud of the selection process for the artists that are part of our festivals,” says Farris. “We are trying to get back to featuring our best and brightest. Andres Acosta, an artist from Venezuela, now based in Houston, has made a name for himself with his hyper-realism style.

Dave Tevenal, from Columbus Ohio, is known as a ‘tattooer’s artist.’ He’s the guy tattoo artists watch to see what he’s working on. He is the hardest working guy in tattooing. Ink and Iron, located on Adams Street in downtown Toledo, has a great crew of artists, and they’ll be at the festival. It’s important for us to have local talent featured alongside national and international artists. We’ve also focused on bringing a diversity of styles and artists to our festivals. It’s important, when people attend these events, that they find an art style and/or an artist they can connect with,” explains Farris.

At

The Festival

Festival attendees will view artists creating and that process is exciting and inspiring, not only for the public but for fellow artists. Tattoo artists will also be selling their own artwork in print or other forms and, if you are a licensed tattoo artist, you can purchase supplies. The festival will also include local vendors.

Find out more and buy tickets to the Toledo Tattoo Festival at tattootoledo.com/

Founded in 1903, the storied Athena Art Society is one of the oldest women’s art groups in the country. It has offered generations of artists camaraderie, support, fellowship and professional opportunities. Membership in this all-women Art Society is by invitation only. Athena’s 120th year kicks off with its annual spring self-juried exhibition, held this year at the Walter E. Terhune Gallery in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts at Owens Community College. Ellen LoefflerKalinoski, Kay Weprin, Martha Osnowitz and Mary Ellen Taylor are a few of the participants in the exhibition, which includes paintings, drawings, photographs, collages and ceramics. The Athena Art Society’s Spring Self-Juried Exhibit runs through the end of the month with a closing reception on Friday, March 31 from 3-5pm. The Terhune Gallery has limited hours each week, so call ahead to ensure the gallery is open during your visit. 30335 Oregon Rd., Perrysburg. 567661-2721. athenaartsociety.org.

ART EVENTS

DAILY

Matt Wedel: Phenomenal Debris

Monumental, colorful, and expressive, Matt Wedel’s ceramics are a full celebration of what’s possible with clay. Matt Wedel: Phenomenal Debris brings together a large selection of the artist’s ceramics and drawings spanning over a decade of his career. Runs through April 2, 2023. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St., 419-255-8000. Toledomuseum.org

Unruly Hearts / Unruly Arts

An exhibit of lively artworks across mediums, created by the artists of Toledo-based studio, Unruly Arts. The show will highlight the expansive variety of mediums and styles in which the artists specialize as they embrace art-making free from restrictions. Runs through March 25, 2023. 20 North Gallery, 18 N. St. Clair St. 20northgallery.com

James “dirtykics” Dickerson

An exhibit by street portrait photographer and Toledo native James “dirtykics” Dickerson. Gallery open by appointment. River House Arts, 425 Jefferson Ave. riverhousearts.com

FRI 3

Dave Wisniewski Solo Exhibit

A collection of all new works will be exhibited during Red Bird First Friday. Cowboy attire is highly recommended. Fuller Art House will team up with Hip to the Groove for this festive exhibit. 6pm. Fuller Art House, 5679 Main St., Sylvania. fullerarthouse.com

SAT 11

Toledo Fine Art Fair Shop for one-of-a-kind works of art in all styles and media. Ceramics, painting, sculpture, photography, jewelry and more. $5 admission. 11am-5pm. Also on Sunday, Mar. 12 noon-4pm. Glass City Center, 401 Jefferson Ave. toledofineartfair.com

SUN 12

Stained Glass Art Create your own glass artwork with beginner friendly instructions and guidance from Metroparks and Toledo Stained Glass Guild. Nature will be your guide using templates of local flora and fauna. No previous stained glass experience required. $70. 1-4pm. Glass City Metropark, 983 Front St. metroparkstoledo.com

TUES 14

Portraiture in Soft Pastel The objective of this four week class is to create a portrait using the medium of pastel. Students will learn to draw the proportions of the face and produce a likeness of an image they choose. Classes meet four Tuesday afternoons through April 4. $170. 1-4pm. The Art Supply Depo, 5739 Main St., Sylvania. Artsupplydepo.com

WED 15

Intro to Painting

In this intro to acrylic painting course, you will learn how to start painting with acrylics. Follow along with fun instruction to complete a vibrant still life in a step-by-step style used by illustrator and painter, Dani Fuller. $150. 6-8pm. Fuller Art House, 5679 Main St., Sylvania. fullerarthouse.com

SATURDAY 18

Elements of the Landscape - 5 Week Workshop A workshop that touches upon the basic elements found in most landscape paintings –trees, clouds/skies, water/reflections, color/value, and putting it all together. The class consists of 5 four hour sessions one week apart. $395. 10am2pm. Fuller Art House, 5679 Main St., Sylvania. fullerarthouse.com

The Toledo Tattoo Festival at the Glass City Center, April 21-23, will feature over 200 tattoo artists from around the world.

LISTEN HEAR

Jazz Society gathers momentum

Radio station, weekly concerts and annual festivals keep Toledo jazz alive

By Curtis Deeter

Take a moment to appreciate Toledo’s rich and vibrant jazz history. Pianists

Art Tatum, Claude Black; guitarist Bern Nix, bassist Clifford Murphy and vocalists Jon Hendricks and Ramona Collins are among the many musicians from this area who have left their mark on jazz. With venues like Rusty’s Jazz Café and Murphy’s Place (named for Clifford Murphy, who opened the club with Joan Russell), Toledo heard jazz songs proudly performed for decades.

A newer generation stepped in with Dégagé Jazz Café (now closed, but replaced by Levi & Lilac’s, which hosts live music) and The Village Idiot (which has hosted Jazz Every Sunday for years). Will Lucas opened Lucille’s Jazz Lounge (2021) inside TolHouse on North Summit St., continuing the City’s jazz tradition.

Great Lakes Jazz Society

H-Factor Jazz Show

With humble beginnings at the terrestrial UT student radio station, the H-Factor Jazz Show now broadcasts through its App day and night, bringing listeners an eclectic collection of music.

The H-Factor Jazz Show App can be downloaded from Google Play or the App Store.

Host Hugh Ross says, “Jazz cannot be defined; it must be experienced. The H-Factor showcases jazz in all of its complexities—blending acid, contemporary, funk, fusion, hip-hop, Latin, smooth, traditional,” and more. The station plays local and national music, along with tracks from all around the world. Ross encourages anyone interested in listening to download the App. That goes for people who “like, love, or are just ‘jazz curious.’” The H-Factor also has opportunities for local artists to submit music to be played on the show.

Two Fests, One Common Thread

The Great Lakes Jazz Society is an organization founded by long-active members of Toledo’s jazz scene, according to Cheryl Catlin. Catlin explains, “For over 10 years we were called the ‘H-Factor Jazz Enthusiast Club,’ named after the H-Factor Jazz Show,” a radio show staffed by UT students. “We are the organizers of the Great Lakes Jazz Festival and the Glass City JazzFest. We started ‘Wine Down Wednesday’ in an effort to promote local and regional jazz and jazz artists on a weekly basis and to raise funds for our festivals and our scholarship fund (for budding musicians).”

Through the Society’s efforts, including yearly festivals, a new generation of jazz lovers have been inspired while the genre is performed for a wider group of Toledoarea audiences. “Wine Down Wednesday,” held weekly at The Bay Restaurant and Nightclub (The Docks), features a broad range of performers. Proceeds fund a scholarship program, which provides music lessons and instruments to local children.

The Great Lakes Jazz Society hosts two annual events—The Great Lakes Jazz Festival (in August at the Ottawa Park amphitheater, with a designated indoor “rain space” in case of uncooperative weather), showcasing local and regional artists to “rediscover the beauty of Ottawa Park and to remember Toledo’s heritage of Jazz. The second annual event is Glass City JazzFest in September, which was resurrected in 2022 at the Glass City Metropark - held for the first time in years. For attendees and performers, these festivals promote the genre and Toledo’s culture and appreciation for great jazz.

Wine Down Wednesdays are held at The Bay, located at the Docks at 18 Main Street, Toledo. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. $7-$15. Keep up with the Great Lakes Jazz Society through its Facebook page. facebook.com/greatlakesjazzsociety. 800-419-5299.

METRO MUSIC

WED, MAR 1

The Bay Restaurant & Nightclub: Latin Jazz

Guitarist Victor Samalot (jazz)

Ciao: Chris Brown & Candace Coleman (soft rock)

THUR, MAR 2

Ciao: Chris Brown & Candace Coleman (soft rock)

Huntington Center: Toby Mac (contemporary Christian)

Papa’s Tavern: Open Jam with Bobby May (acoustic)

Ye Olde Cock n’ Bull Tavern: Caveman (acoustic)

Prime Nightlife: Dancefestopia Yellow Brick Road tour (electronic)

FRI, MAR 3

The Casual Pint: JP and the Big Deal (acoustic)

Maumee Indoor Theater: Letters From Home

50 States Tour (musical)

Hollywood Casino: Marquis66 (classic rock)

Wheelin’ on the Rocks: Flashstarr (classic rock)

Toledo Museum of Art Peristyle: Toledo

Symphony Orchestra: Women in Classical

Music (classical)

Pat & Dandy’s: Strawberry Kush (classic rock)

Triple Crown Bar: Caveman (acoustic)

Sneaky Pete’s: Renegade Lemonade (rock)

Bar 145: Trailer Park Ninjas (rock)

SAT,

MAR

4

Ottawa Tavern: Awake At Last (rock)

Hollywood Casino: Organized K-Os (pop/rock)

Sportsman Bar: The Suicide Doors (rock)

Quimby’s Food & Spirits: Jeff Stewart (singer/songwriter)

Pat & Dandy’s Sports Bar & Grill: Reese

Dailey Band (rock)

Sneaky Pete’s: Married With Children (rock)

Vibe Lounge: Toxic Saturday (r&b, hip-hop)

Pat & Dandy’s: Reese Dailey Band (southern rock)

SUN, MAR 5

Uptown Maumee: Acoustics for Autism (various artists)

MON, MAR 6

Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Whiskey

Monday featuring Jake Pilewski (acoustic)

TUE, MAR 7

Table Forty4: TSA Rocks Table Forty4 (rock)

WED, MAR 8

The Bay Restaurant & Nightclub: Deborah Gardner (jazz)

Dexter’s: Mediocre Mix Tape (pop/rock)

THUR, MAR 9

St. Clement’s Hall: Toledo Irish American Club

St. Patrick’s Blowout Event with The Druids (folk/traditional)

Lucille’s Jazz Lounge: Matthew Fries (jazz)

Papa’s Tavern: Open Jam with Renegade

Lemonade Duo (acoustic)

The Original Sub Shop & Deli: Pat Byrne (singer/songwriter)

Kickstand Saloon: Matthew James (acoustic)

FRI, MAR 10

Benfield Wines: Ramona Collins (jazz)

Prime Nightlife: Country Night for the Critters (country)

Hollywood Casino: Paul Rosewood (country)

Bar 145: Venyx (pop/rock)

Pat & Dandy’s: Caveman & Friends (rock)

SAT, MAR 11

Prime Nightlife: St. Patrick’s Day Blowout (rock)

Maumee Indoor Theater: Edgar Loudermilk (bluegrass)

Frederick Douglass Center: Kingdom

Connect (poetry & open mic)

Highlighted events indicates our picks for the week

Toledo’s Mainstreet Bar & Grill: The No

Survivors Tour feat. The Convalescence, Casket

Robbery & Ignominious (heavy metal)

Hollywood Casino: Slippery When Wet: Bon

Jovi Tribute (classic rock)

Lucille’s Jazz Lounge: Trutone (jazz)

Bar 145: That 80’s Band (pop/rock)

Quimby’s Food & Spirits: Kyle Smithers (singer/songwriter)

Sneaky Pete’s: Streetwyze (rock)

Pat & Dandy’s: All or Nothing (classic rock)

SUN,

MAR

12

Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church: Toledo Quartet Music Association 73rd

Anniversary (gospel)

Earnest Brew Works: St. Patrick’s Day presented by whateverandeveramen. (folk/

traditional)

The Toledo Club: Buckeye Broadband and Blade Chamber Series: Adagio & Allegro

(classical)

The Village Idiot: Jazz Night

The Village Idiot: Open Mic

MON, MAR 13

Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Whiskey

Monday featuring Jake Pilewski (acoustic)

BGSU: Music at the Forefront: Quasar

Saxophone Quartet (classical/jazz)

WED, MAR 15

The Bay Restaurant & Nightclub: Open Jazz Jam (jazz)

Mayfly Tavern: Snyder & Rutter (acoustic)

THUR, MAR 16

Main Library: Amy Speace (singer/songwriter)

Papa’s Tavern: Open Jam with Bobby May

(acoustic)

BGSU: Chamber Jazz Ensembles (jazz)

FRI,

MAR

17

Hollywood Casino: Totally 80s (pop/rock)

The Barn Bar: St. Patrick’s Day Party with Lost

Signal (rock)

Dexter’s: St. Patty’s Day Party with the Castawayz (rock)

Sneaky Pete’s: J.T. Hayden (acoustic)

Bar 145: The Skittle Bots (pop/rock)

SAT, MAR 18

Lucille’s Jazz Lounge: Michael Malis Trio

(jazz)

Hollywood Casino: The Bradberries (pop/ rock)

Pat and Dandy’s: Elektrick Mayhem (rock)

Main St. Bar & Grill: Shamrock Showcase 2023

(hip hop)

The Distillery: Ride the Wind: Poison Tribute

(classic rock)

Bier Stube: Caveman (acoustic)

Leroy & Margarets: BatterY “The Masters of MetallicA” Tribute Band (heavy metal)

Sneaky Pete’s: The Cheeks (rock)

Bar 145: 56 Daze (rock)

SUN, MAR 19

Over Yonder Concert House: Full Chord (bluegrass)

The Village Idiot: Jazz Night

The Village Idiot: Open Mic

MON, MAR 20

Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Whiskey Monday featuring Jake Pilewski (acoustic) Ottawa Tavern: Last Wishes, Adrienne, Kidnapped, Hatefiles, Threat Level (punk)

WED, MAR 22

The Bay Restaurant & Nightclub: Lisa Hightower (jazz)

THUR, MAR 23

Kickstand Saloon: Caveman (acoustic)

Papa’s Tavern: Open Jam with Renegade Lemonade Duo (acoustic)

The Valentine Theatre: Toledo Jazz

Orchestra: Take the A Train (jazz)

BGSU: Small Ensemble: Trombone Choir and Trumpet Guild (classical)

FRI, MAR 24

Jed’s on Sylvania & King: Pop’s Garage (pop/rock)

Hollywood Casino: Venyx (pop/rock)

Toledo Yacht Club: Country Night (country)

Ottawa Tavern: Drip N Trip - Music & Fashion

Event (hip hop)

Sportsman Bar: Public Scene (rock)

Quimby’s Food & Spirits: Ryan Dunlop (acoustic)

Bar 145: Union Rising (rock)

Pat & Dandy’s: String Theory (rock)

SAT, MAR 25

Jed’s Barbeque & Brew: The Reese Dailey

Band (rock)

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church: A Night in Harmony (folk/americana)

Hollywood Casino: PS Dump Your Boyfriend (pop/rock)

Ottawa Tavern: Razor Braids, The Zimmerman Twins, Hemmingway Lane, High Draw (indie rock)

UT Center for Performing Arts: Pre-Junior

Ensemble (classical)

Speedways Bar & Grill: Flashstarr (classic rock)

Sneaky Pete’s: Random Act (rock)

The Distillery: Pop’s Garage (pop/rock)

Pat & Dandy’s: Steel Lily (rock)

SUN, MAR 26

Epworth United Methodist Church: Ramona Collins guest vocalist with the Eric Dickey Group (jazz)

Rosary Cathedral: Puccini’s Messa Di Gloria (orchestra/ choral)

Harmony In Life: Sound Journey with Heavenly3lues (new age)

The Village Idiot: Jazz Night

The Village Idiot: Open Mic

MON, MAR 27

Te’kēla Mexican Cantina + Cocina - Sylvania: Monte & Scott of Gypsy Luvin’ (acoustic)

Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Whiskey Monday featuring Jake Pilewski (acoustic)

TUE, MAR 28

BGSU: Graduate Brass Quintet (classical)

THUR, MAR 30

Papa’s Tavern: Open Jam with Bobby May (acoustic)

BGSU: Guitar Ensembles (classical guitar)

FRI, MAR 31

Frontera Sabores de México: Caveman (acoustic)

Hollywood Casino: D-Tour Band (pop/rock)

BGSU: Spring Opera: Monteverdi’s The Coronation of Poppea (opera)

Bar 145: Madison Avenue (pop/rock)

Pat & Dandy’s: Excalibur (rock)

G-L-O-R-I-A

Hearing the Toledo Symphony Orchestra perform in Rosary Cathedral is a grand, reverent experience. Being in that space when TSO is joined by a choir of singers from BGSU is even better. On Sunday, March 26 at 4pm, guest conductor Giordano Bellincampi pulls together the ensembles for Giacomo Puccini’s operatic Messa di Gloria. Puccini was a young composer just finishing school when he wrote this. 2535 Collingwood Blvd., Toledo. $35 adults, $15 children. 419-246-8000. toledosymphony.com.

Another traveling song

The Valentine Theatre will be swinging on Wednesday, March 23 at 8pm as the Toledo Jazz Orchestra with Alain Trudel presents Take the A Train. This tribute to Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn features Caravan, Mood Indigo and more. Get your fill of Jazz at Lincoln Center vibes while they’re available. 410 Adams St., Toledo. $38-$61 adults, $15 children. 419246-8000. toledosymphony.com.

Feelin’ folksy

Nashville-based folk singer-songwriter

Amy Speace has had a rich and textured career that includes working as a Shakespearean actress and collaborating with veterans to write music about their military experiences. Speace will stop in downtown Toledo on Thursday, March 16 for a solo show at 7:30pm at the Main Branch of the Toledo Lucas County Public Library. Her music has been acclaimed by magazines from American Songwriter to Rolling Stone. Free and open to the public. 325 N. Michigan Ave., Toledo. 419-259-5200. facebook.com/ToledoLibrary.

THE BIG TO DO

THUR, Mar. 2 [live music, electronic]

Dancefestopia Yellow Brick Road TourElectronic music showcase. $15-$20. 8pm-2am. Prime Nightlife, 3922 Secor Rd. primetoledo.com

FRI, Mar. 3 [mental health]

NAMI Mental Health Informational NightNAMI of Toledo presents “Mental Health for All!” through its MENA Leadership Initiative. Come to learn more about one of your local resources in Toledo for mental health. With Sr. Afaf Doumani and Sr. Jasmin Abu Hummos. 7pm. Masjid Saad Foundation, 5225 Alexis Rd., Sylvania.

SAT, Mar. 4

[wine]

Glass City Wine Festival - Toledo’s premier wine, food and shopping festival returns to the Glass City Center. $37. Noon. Glass City Center, 401 Jefferson Ave. glasscitywinefestival.com

[fundraisers,

theater]

Valentine Heart to Heart Gala: Patti Lupone | Don’t Monkey Around With Broadway - The incomparable Patti Lupone will bring an evening of Broadway melodies, sparkling banter, and concert artistry to the Valentine stage for one night only! This annual concert benefits our notfor-profit historical theatre’s ongoing maintenance. $60-$125. 8pm. Valentine Theatre, 410 N. Superior St. valentinetheatre.com

SUN, Mar. 5 [health & wellness]

Functional Health with Diana Spiess - An informational workshop on functional medicine and health. Topics include nutrition, hormones, gut health, metabolism and supplements. In person and virtual. $30. Noon-3pm. Essence Mind • Body Studio, 725 Ford St., Ste. B, Maumee. essencembs.com

[live music, fundraisers]

Acoustics for Autism - The yearly music festival will be back for a day of music to raise funds for local ASD support programs and needs. See website for a full list of events, musicians and vendors. Noon. Uptown Maumee, 300 block of Conant St., Maumee. Acousticsforautism.com

MON, Mar. 6 [home & garden]

Spring Cleaning for Body and Mind - Spring is the time of year for clearing and renewal. Learn about the science and tradition surrounding herbal detoxification, as well as recipes and practices that we can put into action to support our own transition to the warmer months. $22.

6-7:30pm. The 577 Foundation, 577 East Front St., Perrysburg. 577foundation.org

TUE, Mar. 7 [drinks]

Whiskey 101 with Joe Carter - Bourbon Steward Joe Carter shares the where, how, who and why of whiskeys. Sipping samples and snack stations are included in the ticket price. $50. 6-9pm. Barr’s Public House, 3355 Briarfield Blvd., Maumee. Eventbrite.com

WED, Mar. 8

[home & garden]

Clutter Free Living - Research has shown that too much clutter can cause stress, yet some clutter stimulates creativity. This class will help

you attain a balance to bring peace and creativity to your own living space. 2-3pm. Heatherdowns Branch Library, 3265 Glanzman Rd. toledolibrary. org. Free

[crafts,

meditation]

Meditational Crafting - Vod will show you how accessible crafts can be a source of calm and escape. All materials provided. No previous creative skills needed. Meets the first Wednesday of each month. $25. 7-8:30pm. Vod’s Here, 2910 W. Central Ave. vodshere.com

THUR, Mar. 9

[St. Patrick’s Day]

Toledo Irish American Club St. Patrick’s Blowout Event! - The Toledo Irish American Club is throwing a MAJOR St. Patrick’s Day season event! Featuring food, the 6th Annual Kilt Contest and performances by award winning Irish Band The Druids as well as the Toledo Firefighters Bagpipes & Drummers. $17-$25. 6pm. St. Clement’s Hall, 2990 Tremainsville Rd. eventbrite. com

FRI, Mar. 10

[cooking

classes]

Small Bites: Interactive Cooking - Join guest chef Jenni O’Neil, owner of Love, Jenni, for an interactive cooking experience. Learn how to make and plate elegant hors d’oeuvres while still enjoying yourself and the party. Enjoy small bites that are perfect for serving at a cocktail party or as starters for an evening dinner. $85. 6-8:30pm. Gather by Angel 101, 139 W. Third St., Perrysburg. Shopgather101.com

[theater]

Xanadu - Stone Productions presents this Tony Award-nominated roller skating musical adventure about following your dreams despite the limitations others set for you. Based on the Universal Pictures cult classic with Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly, Xanadu is hilarity on wheels for adults, children and anyone who has ever wanted to feel inspired. $15. 8pm. Also runs Saturday, Mar. 12, 8pm and Sunday, Mar. 13, 3pm. Tickets at brownpapertickets.com. Collingwood Arts Center, 2413 Collingwood Blvd., Toledo. collingwoodartscenter.org/

[women, science & technology]

Girl Power! - A Night for Women - Join Imagination Station for an evening of empowerment and community with a mission. Girl Power! - A Night for Women will bring together the area’s most influential women to share ideas, learn from one another and inspire change. $50. 5:30pm. Imagination Station, 1 Discovery Way. imaginationstationtoledo.org

SAT, Mar. 11 [comic-cons]

Fantasticon - Fantasticon is a mid-size show created for true comic book and pop culture collectors and fans. If you collect it, you will find it at Fantasticon. $7-$25. 11am-6pm. Also Sunday, Mar. 12, 11am-5pm. Glass City Center, 401 Jefferson Ave. fantasticon.net

[art fairs]

Toledo Fine Art Fair - Browse and shop one-ofa-kind works of art in all styles and media. Ceramics, painting, sculpture, photography, jewelry and more. $5. 11am-5pm. Also Sunday, Mar. 12, noon-4pm. Glass City Center, 401 Jefferson Ave. toledofineartfair.com

Drink up, ye merry gentlepeople

Glass City Wine Festival, Toledo’s premier wine, food and shopping festival, will take place at Glass City Center on Saturday, March 4. Local and regional wineries and vendors will share their wares. During the event, attendees can show off their creativity at Wine and Canvas. Participating wineries include CLE Urban Winery, Dragonfly Vineyard & Wine Cellar, Three Sips Brewing and Voodoo Wines. Vendors include Buckeye Chocolates, Little Dippers Mixes, Nectar of the Vine and Shay’s Sparkling Jewels. Some of the event’s proceeds benefit nonprofit organization Parker’s Purpose. Purchase your tickets at Ticketmaster. General admission tickets for the afternoon with entry at 1pm are $25, and for the evening with entry at 6pm are $30. Tickets for the afternoon VIP shift are sold out, but evening VIP tickets, with entry at 5pm, are $40. 401 Jefferson Ave., Toledo. glasscitywinefestival.com.

Come together

Acoustics for Autism, the sprawling annual multistage concert fundraiser to benefit the nonprofit Project iAm, returns to downtown Maumee Sunday, March 5 from noon-2am. 90 bands will play on eight stages on the 300 block of Conant St. and surrounding areas. Every working local musician and band you can imagine is participating in this 16th annual event, in genres including jazz, acoustic guitar, bluegrass, singer-songwriters, gospel, rock and roll, funk and country. There’s not a bad time to show up all day - Maumee will be rocking until the wee hours. Food trucks and beer tents will be available throughout the event. Project iAm provides assistance to families seeking support and treatment for kids with autism spectrum disorder. The show is free and open to the public of all ages. acousticsforautism.com.

TEDxBGSU: For the public good

The second annual TEDxBGSU: For the Public Good will take place on campus Wednesday, March 22 from 9am-6pm in the Lenhart Grand Ballroom of the Bowen Thompson Student Union. This year’s event will feature 25 speakers including students, faculty, staff and community members from northwest Ohio. BGSU’s mission is to be a public university for the public good and TEDxBGSU aims to reflect that mission. Last year’s inaugural TEDxBGSU event included speakers presenting on topics like the creative economy, the immune system, clean energy, privilege and consciousness, teaching practices, and holistic banking practices. bgsu.edu/tedxbgsu.

[St. Patrick’s Day]

St. Partick’s Day Blow-out - Smash Concerts, Reliant Concerts, Prime Nightlife, PXGraphiX and XYC Printing are throwing a St. Patrick’s Day bash with a half dozen bands, party shenanigans, and (of course) green beer. Over Medicated, Icarus Fell, ZeroKing, Mortilus, Flowers On The Grave and O ODIOUS ONES will perform. $15. 6pm. Prime Nightlife, 3922 Secor Rd. primetoledo.com

[beer]

Toledo Beer Festival - Regional craft beer festival with a huge selection of local and regional beers, ciders, and meads from the Toledo Metropolitan and surrounding areas. Local eats are available from area food trucks and restaurants. Live music will enhance the festive environment. $50. 8-11pm. Erie Street Market, 201 S. Erie St. eventbrite.com

SUN, Mar. 12 [markets & shopping]

The Vintage Market presents Lucky Junkin’: Join the Vintage Market for an amazing day full of shopping, food and fun. Food truck rally, live music, free gift to the first 50 people in line. $5. 10am-4pm. Monroe County Fairgrounds, 3775 S. Custer Rd., Monroe, MI. facebook.com/thevintagemarketmi/ [crafts]

Stained Glass Art - Create your own glass artwork with beginner friendly instructions and guidance from Metroparks and Toledo Stained Glass Guild. $70. 1-4pm. Glass City Metropark, 983 Front St., Toledo. metroparkstoledo.com/

MON, Mar. 13 [floristry]

Create a Victorian Bouquet - Discover the fascinating history of the Victorian tussy-mussy bouquet, then create your own and bring some extra freshness to your day. A library card is required to register. 6-7pm. Birmingham Branch Library, 203 Paine Ave., Toledo. toledolibrary.org. Free

TUE, Mar. 14 [drinks]

Irish Whiskey Tasting & Distillery Tour - Get a jump start on your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations with a curated tasting flight of Irish whiskey! Guests will receive a guided tour of the Toledo Spirits distillery and receive a first hand look at the processes and techniques used to create craft spirits right here in Toledo. $35. 6-7:30pm. Bellwether at Toledo Spirits, 1301 N. Summit St. toledospirits.com/bellwether.

WED, Mar. 15 [jazz, wine]

Wine Down Wednesday - The Great Lakes Jazz Society presents “Wine Down Wednesdays’’ each Wednesday. Doors open at 5pm with the H-Factor Jazz Show. Jazz Jam Session starts at 7:30pm with the Jerome Clark Trio.Bring your instrument, your voice and signup to make some amazing jazz! See the Great Lakes Jazz Society collection on Eventbrite for details on upcoming Wednesday shows. $7-$75. 5pm. The Bay Restaurant & Nightclub, 18 Main St., Toledo. eventbrite.com

Looking for a quick change of scenery and a taste of something different? Visit toledocitypaper. com or check out our sister Current magazine (covering Ann Arbor), at ecurrent.com, to explore film, art, music and more

SUN., Mar. 12

The Detroit St. Patrick’s Parade

The Detroit St. Patrick’s Parade has brought together people of all cultures and nationalities in metro Detroit to celebrate Irish culture and make lasting memories. The parade is a great time to celebrate Corktown, Detroit and the positive momentum in the Corktown area. Noon. Starting at Michigan Ave. and Sixth Street, Detroit, MI. detroitstpatricksparade.com.

SUN., Mar. 26

Marche du Nain Rouge

The 11th Annual Marche du Nain Rouge, the parade where the attendees are the parade, gathers next to Traffic Jam & Snug for a celebration of Detroit. You are the parade, so come masked or fully costumed. Bring a marching band. Wear a costume. Build a human-powered float. Put on a mask, cover your body in glitter -whatever it takes. Should the Nain Rouge, Detroit’s legendary harbinger of doom, try something dastardly, show him that hope prevails in the city that rises from the ashes. An afterparty follows at the Masonic Temple. Noon. Canfield & Second, Detroit, MI. marchdunainrouge.com. Free

THUR, Mar. 16 [talks & lectures]

Lunch & Learn: Ballad of the Trees - The Return of the Prodigal Son, a painting by Rembrandt, is the inspiration for this month’s talk. See how trees and wood connect the elements of this familiar story in this unique gallery exhibit. Speaker Rick Myers is a professor at Owens College and will lead a discussion on emotions and how we make happiness part of our daily life. Lunch will be buffet style, by donation. Reservations are appreciated to kate@stpaulstoledo.org. 11:45am. St Paul’s Lutheran/HeART Gallery, 428 N. Erie St., Toledo. heartandgallerystudios.com

FRI, Mar. 17

[St. Patrick’s Day]

St. Patty’s Day Party with The CastawayzAll the green beer and party tunes you need to make it a rockin’ St. Patrick’s Day party. 9pm. Dexter’s, 6023 Manley Rd., Maumee. facebook. com/Dexters419/

SAT, Mar. 18

[bar crawl]

Toledo Shamrock Stroll St Patrick’s Day Weekend Bar Crawl - Pubcrawls.com is calling all leprecrawlers to the annual Toledo Shamrock Stroll St Patrick’s Day Weekend Bar Crawl. Come dressed fresh and ready to impress wearing your best green and search for that pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Reservations are available on Eventbrite. Downtown Toledo. eventbrite.com

[St. Patrick’s Day]

Shamrockin’ Shuffle - Official Guinness World Record Attempt - Join thousands of other leprechauns at the area’s largest run/walk by people wearing kilts. Run or walk through the streets of Downtown Toledo and enjoy a street party at the Blarney Irish Pub after you finish. Choose the Kilt Race package to be part of the Guinness World Record attempt. $32. 8pm. The Blarney Irish Pub, 601 Monroe St. runtoledo.com.

MON, Mar. 20 [theater]

All Things Equal - The Life & Trials of Ruth Bader Ginsburg - Supreme Court Justice “RBG” welcomes a friend of the family to her cozy chambers to convey, over the course of ninety fascinating and often funny minutes, a sense of her life and its many trials. $29-$69. 7:30pm. The Valentine Theatre, 410 N. Superior St. valentinetheatre.com

WED, Mar. 22 [floristry, drinks]

Blooms & Botanicals: Floral Design w. Beautiful Blooms by Jen - Guests will learn about the art of floral design and create their own floral arrangement to take home while enjoying a specially curated cocktail menu featuring delicious botanical elements. $55. 6-8pm. Bellwether at Toledo Spirits, 1301 N. Summit St. eventbrite.com

THUR, Mar. 23 [painting]

Uncork & Unwind: Spring Landscapes - Celebrate the beginning of spring with a two-hour guided painting class at the Manor House. No experience is necessary. $25. 6-8pm. Wildwood Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. metroparkstoledo.com

[cooking classes, wine]

Easter Meal Ideas - Learn unique, easy and delicious dips, salads, casseroles and breakfast items to wow your guests. $25. 6:30pm. Benfield Wines, 102 N. Main St., Swanton. lulu-fare.square.site

FRIDAY, Mar. 24 [music & fashion]

Drip N Trip - Music & Fashion Event - Join MVNIFVST for the first edition of “Drip N Trip” - the Music & Fashion Event. Come wearing your most expressive outfit! One-of-a-kind clothing & merchandise will be for sale. Hosted & headlined by Surreal Ramen. Featuring guest music performances from: Zohan Kambion, Torrey Gray, Novuh Kaine, Kanoe the Artist, Kashi Kruegerr and Litle Troy. $10. 7pm. Ottawa Tavern, 1817 Adams St.

SAT, Mar. 25 [fiber arts]

38th Annual Market Day and Fiber Fair - Interested in homespun yarns, fibers and fleeces? How about knitting, weaving, crochet, and fiber art? If any of these home crafts entice your creative and artistic fancy, the Black Swamp Spinners Guild Market Day is for you! $1 admission. 9am-4pm. Wood County Fairgrounds, Jr. Fair Building, 13800 W. Poe Rd., Bowling Green. blackswampspinnersguild.com

[spirituality]

Crystal Magic - Learn how to harness the magical vibrations of crystals and incorporate them into your daily life. Register online. $50. 10:30am. Brandywine Country Club, 6904 Salisbury Rd., Maumee. melaniefsmithmedium.as.me

[home & garden]

Toledo Repair Cafe - Bring in your clothing, small appliances, bicycles, jewelry, housewares and toys for repairs free of charge! Nothing that requires fuel will be repaired. This is a partnership program with the Multifaith Council of NW Ohio. 10am-2pm. Maumee Branch Library, 501 River Rd., Maumee. toledolibrary.org. Free

SUN, Mar. 26 [health & wellness]

UT Self-Care & Wellness Open House - The Manor House is the ideal venue for you to join University of Toledo faculty and students from the Department of Recreation Therapy as they teach you self-care approaches and techniques that empower your personal wellness journey. Stations to visit include Breath in Nature-Breath out Stress, Guided Imagery & Active Senses, Creative Movement through Tai Chi and Hula Hoop Stretching, and Creative Art Inspired by Nature. 1-4pm. Wildwood Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. metroparkstoledo.com. Free

TUE, Mar. 28 [writing, poetry]

WritersShop: Poetry Series - A monthly poetry writing workshop led by new leaders and new topics. Hosted by Jonie McIntire, Lucas County Poet Laureate, this series will be led by different local poets each month. 6-7pm. Mott Branch Library, 1085 Dorr St. toledolibrary.org. Free

THUR, Mar. 30 [author events]

Amanda Flower - Gathering Volumes welcomes Agatha Award winner Amanda Flower for a discussion of her new mystery, In Farm’s Way. Part of the Farm to Table Mystery series deemed “a finely tuned whodunit” by Kirkus Reviews. 6:30pm. Gathering Volumes, 196 E. South Boundary St., Perrysburg. gatheringvolumes.com

FRI, Mar. 31 [baseball]

Toledo Mud Hens Opening Day - The 2023 season kicks off with a game against the St. Paul Saints. 4:05pm. Fifth Third Field, 406 Washington St. mlb.tickets.com

SOCIAL STUDIES photos

Let the good times roll!

Toledo Auto Show Gala offers a preview of the annual Toledo Auto Show to attendees. It is also the year’s biggest fundraiser for the Toledo Auto Dealers Association and Auto Dealers United for Kids, which together raise money for local children’s charities -- over the years, more than two million dollars.

Toledo Spirits celebrates Mardi Gras with Bellwether Bon Temps, a pop-up at Bellwether that runs through March 6. On Fat Tuesday, Dave Kosmyna led a group playing Creole jazz as patrons kicked off the celebration. Timeless New Orleans cocktails like the Sazerac and Absinthe Frappe are on the menu and live music lends a New Orleans vibe to the space.

by Christine Senack

Shawn and Sarah Service, Jason and Barb Logan, Jermaine Logan and Sue Mahoney

Adam and Emily Reny, Billy Yark and Ken Foster

Nick Wang, Paige Hulett and Michael Henzler

Dave Kosmyna, Susan Hilton, Betty and Ray Heitger

Willa and Eddie Norrils, Noe Quintero and Maribeth Almeda-Quintero

Aman Goyal, Neil Bhandari and Morgan Owens

CROSS WORD

SPEAK THE STARS

by Janet Amid

PISCES (February 20-March 20) As Saturn moves into your own sign, it will create a massive, powerful shift in how you see yourself, as well as how others view you. As a Pisces, your true nature is to self-sacrifice and please. During this period, your more creative Pisces side is illuminated. Your intuition at its highest form. Saturn represents structure, so during this time as it crosses over your Sun, your sense of responsibility increases. In addition, both Jupiter and Venus, transiting your money house highlights your sense of security. This can and will be a good month to feel more grounded.

ARIES (March 21-April 20) As Mars, your ruler, transits your area of chat, words flow easily. Your natural ability to communicate is effortless. In addition, Saturn moving into Pisces, transiting the sacred part of your chart, ignites your inner psyche. Matters needing closure or resolution take hold. A strong period for releasing and moving ahead allowing you to gain momentum. Also, with both Venus and Jupiter in your personal house, there really isn’t much you cannot do. This transit highlights you to the utmost degree.

TAURUS (April 21-May 21) With so much activity in sync with your own sign, you begin to see yourself opening up to new developments. Though your resistance to diversity is set in stone, you may be more inclined to meet the challenges ahead. The desire to grow beyond your everyday routine is a clear indication of personal growth. One example is seen as you begin to experience new-found friendships on a much higher level. Also, as Venus and Jupiter ignite your inner thoughts, intuition is met on a most profound level. Trust your instincts.

HAND TO MOUTH

By Brendan Emmett Quigley

ring

6.  Goddess of marriage

10.  With crow’s feet, say

14.  Florida city with over 400 thoroughbred farms

15.  Wide-eyed 16.  Street off the main street 17.  Words accompanying a 38-Across 20.  Wrap things up 21.  Puts a name to a face, briefly

22.  Covers in a glossy coat

23.  ___ Arbor

24.  “I must, no doubt ‘bout it”

25.  Words accompanying a 38-Across 29.  Steal

33.  Ibuprofen targets 34.  NFL broadcaster Greg

36.  Drink with a fruity taste

37.  Storage units of the first memory sticks

38.  Gesture associated in the theme answers

39.  Complete devastation

40.  Cultural Revolution initiator

41.  Saltines rival

42.  It might be one with everything

43.  Actress Riseborough

45.  Words accompanying a 38-Across

47.  Machu Picchu resident

49.  “Get out of here,” at the Ren Faire

50.  Take advantage of

53.  Financial ___

54.  Ronna McDaniel is its chair

57.  Word accompanying a 38-Across

60.  Org. whose logo has prominent antlers

61.  Easily-fooled sap

62.  Expensive violin

63.  Strong urges

64.  Spice applications: Abbr.

65.  Mexican hairless dogs

Down

1.  ___ Raúl Capablanca (chess titan)

2.  International Trade and Policy subj.

3.  It works for a spell

4.  High priest of Shiloh

5.  Thrashings

6.  Bald spot coverings

7.  Vanity item?

8.  Loverboy

9.  Cost of moving real estate

10.  “Gosford Park” director

11.  “Ain’t That Peculiar” singer

12.  Carbon compound found in crosswords

13.  Latin deity

18.  Author Ferber

19.  Order some DoorDash

23.  Fruit-flavored drinks

24.  Ingredient in Jell-O

25.  Certain sorority gal

26.  Singer-songwriter Frank

27.  [eye roll]

28.  Hardness scale eponym

30.  Dressing material

31.  “Pride and Prejudice” heroine Bennet

32.  Pertaining to the kidneys

35.  Trick-taking card game

38.  Prime real estate location

39.  It gets fair use

41.  ___ Cards (ESP-testing equipment)

42.  Gave to the IRS, say

44.  Ruffles feature

46.  Branch of Islam

48.  Whatever it is, they’re against it

50.  Pinkberry rival

51.  Clue weapon

52.  Shortly

53.  Range that passes through eight countries

54.  Kickstarter target

55.  Not taken in

56.  Letters that look like pitchforks

58.  Cricket official

59.  “Just saying ...” initially

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) As Saturn moves into Pisces, at odds with your own sign, and Mars conjuncts your sun, you may feel a strong need to reevaluate working or career objectives. This cosmic shift may be the impetus forcing you to look at your life from a different perspective. In addition to all of this, your tolerance level may feel diminished, forcing you to set boundaries. Moreover, friendships bloom at this time, so your dance card will certainly be booked.

CANCER (June 22-July 23) The cosmic influences for the next few weeks or so are on travel, interaction and self-knowledge. An excellent period for advancing yourself in areas of education, or creativity. Personal rejuvenation is the key. More so as Saturn moving into Pisces blends seamlessly with your own sign. This can be a cycle in which you create set goals as well as parameters, with both Venus and Jupiter at your mid-heaven.

LEO (July 24-August 23) As a true Leo, your desire to stay ahead of the game plan is always part of your wheelhouse. Recent changes in your relationship, new or existing, may force you to take a better look at yourself from a different perspective. Relishing the good and owning the bad. Also, for the next few weeks or so, expect the unexpected with work, as you meet the challenges ahead. And, on the flip side with Jupiter and Venus in sync with your own sign, your sixth sense is on overdrive.

VIRGO (August 24-September 23)

With Saturn moving into Pisces, in opposition to your own sign, expect personal as well as financial shifts to occur. Though, as free will goes, it’s how you plan the game. Where Pisces is imagination and emotion, Virgo is rational and logic. The tossup between the two may have you seeking alternative ways to balance. Also, trusting your hunches relating to money matters is key with both transiting Venus in your money house.

LIBRA (September 24-October 23) As with most Libras it is all about synchronicity. This cycle is all about you having to rethink old patterns. With activity taking place in your area of health, your focus for the next year or so takes you into a therapeutic place. Taking a personal inventory is crucial, though taking a better look at partnerships is imperative. Also, work may feel overwhelming, though in the end, it all settles in.

SCORPIO (October 24-November 22) Forget the pressures of recent months, concentrate on what lies ahead. The month opens up to new and better perspectives as Saturn, in sync with your own sign, moving into Pisces places emphasis on home and work. The cards remain in your favor, as you continue to align favorably with the cosmos. Moreover, focusing on health should be in your wheelhouse as the planets favorably transit your 6th house.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23-December 21) With springtime so close, it’s time to take stock and maintain normalcy. Though as Saturn moves into Pisces, and Mars opposes your own sign, life will change in more ways than one. Gaining more insight can keep you ahead of the shifts as they occur. In addition, your lucky period is here. Venus and Jupiter in sync to your 5th house is extremely favorable, for both speculation and matters of the heart.

CAPRICORN (December 22-January 20) Sometimes it’s better to step back and take a closer look at a situation than to plunge into unsafe waters. It’s important to realize that all good things come in time. Taking a personal inventory and knowing that words and delivery do matter. With Saturn moving into Pisces, your ability to express your needs and wants are favored. And with transiting Venus and Jupiter in your area of home, holding space and making it comfortable is paramount.

AQUARIUS (January 21-February 19) With Saturn moving into your money house, your financial sensibility increases. Knowing what you want is not as good as knowing what is good for you. Being more aware of yourself and what you contribute to others is knowledge in its purest form. This can be a highly motivational time to keep yourself on track. In addition, your creative outlet is magnified at this time with both Venus and Jupiter in sync. A good period to speak from the heart.

Janet Amid is a columnist and radio and media personality who can be heard Monday mornings from 8:10-8:20am with Denny, Suzi, and Paul on 93.5 FM. Text or call 419-240-1935 as she takes astrological questions and requests! Every second Wednesday she appears on 96.7 CLASSIC HITS with Keith & Dawn from 7:30-8:30am. Call in to 1-888-561-2837 every other Wednesday morning as she takes calls live. Contact Janet Amid at 419-882-5510 or at JanetAmid@aol.com.

GET HEALTHY

Spring Cleaning for Body and Mind

The 577 Foundation is hosting a Spring Cleaning for Body and Mind on Monday, March 6 from 6 pm to 7:30 pm in the Dining Room at Virginia’s House, 577 E. Front St. This class welcomes anyone to come, but students between the ages of 12 and 17 must have an adult guardian. Instructed by Sarah Williams, this class will be a renewal for springtime, helping teach you about herbal detoxification and the best recipes and practices to support the transition into warmth. Register online to attend. 419-874-4174. 577foundation.org

Meditational Crafting Workshop at Vod’s Here

Vod’s Here is hosting a Meditational Crafting Workshop at the Studio, 2910 W. Central Ave. (between Goddard and Drummond), on March 8 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. For a $25 fee, participants will go back to the basics of crafting by working with doodling, painting and yarn as a source of calm and escape. Registration is limited to eight participants, so the earlier you sign up, the better. If you cannot make it March 8, check out the Vod’s Here calendar for future Meditational Crafting Workshop dates. vodshere.com

Eat Smart, Live Strong with The Ability Center

The Ability Center is working with the OSU Extension Office to provide the Eat Smart, Live Strong course. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance ProgramEducation (SNAP-Ed) will teach you how to eat healthier on a limited budget. At the Ability Center, 5605 Monroe St., from 5-7pm, you will learn tips to improve the quality of your meals, learn new recipes, and practice thrifty shopping. All that’s required are basic cooking skills. 5605 Monroe St., Toledo. 419-885-5733.

Downtown Toledo Shamrockin’ Shuffle

The Blarney Irish Pub, 601 Monroe St., is hosting a Shamrockin’ Shuffle on Saturday, March 18 at 8pm. This St. Paddy’s event is a nighttime glow shuffle where everyone wears kilts. The three mile run gives you an hour to shuffle through the route and make it back to the finish line. For those who don’t think they can run the full three miles, there is a shortcut to get to the beer tent faster. You must be 21 or older to enter the race, and those who register will receive an event shirt, a beer koozie, glow sticks, a race bib and timing chip, refreshments, street party admission, one beer ticket, shareable photos and online results for those who are invested. Registration prices vary and will increase the longer you wait. 419-356-4881. runtoledo.com

Welcoming New Patients!

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GENTLEMAN, WIDOWER would like to meet lady for dinner, companionship, etc. (734) 807-1826”

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SPACE FOR RENT, Sylania area, large property perfect for business (734) 807-1826

NOW HIRING

NOW HIRING - Ohio Geese Control: Love Dogs? Love the Outdoors? This job is ideal for you! We are looking for weekend dog handlers to help us humanely manage geese populations using our border collies. EMAIL contact info/resume to JOBS@ OHIOGEESECONTROL.COM.

Surrogate Mothers NEEDED!

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Give the gift of life... the rewards are more than financial!

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PREPARE FOR POWER OUTAGES TODAY WITH A GENERAC

UAW LOCAL 2213 SALUTES OUR HEALTHCARE HEROES

the registered nurses in the clinical research department at the Mercy St. Vincent Medical Center

THESE REGISTERED NURSES SPECIALIZE IN RESEARCH IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS:

Neurology - Cardiology - Trauma - Infectious Disease - Pulmonary - Oncology

Local 2213’s Clinical Research nurses working at St. V’s, along with physicians, research new devices, medications, procedures, tests, and techniques that are being developed to help better treat patients. The nurses assess patients prior to, during and after any research interventions, and help to assess for safety and efficacy of what is being researched. The research nurse also ensures that a patients’ rights are being protected. Some of the research they have participated has been cited in several professional publications including the New England Journal of Medicine.

CURRENTLY SOME OF THEIR RESEARCH INCLUDES:

•A new bedside test that can help to identify early systemic infection (Sepsis) in 7 minutes. Currently the test takes to take up to 96 hours.

•Stroke treatment interventions that allow for quick treatment of strokes to improve the patient’s quality of life and looking at the best stroke prevention methods with intervention and medications.

•Participating in a national study examining an experimental cardiac device that helps strengthen the heart and reduces heart failure.

•Multiple cancer research studies being offered to our community in conjunction with other cancer centers across the nation.

These are just a sample of the many programs our UAW Local 2213 Healthcare Heroes are involved with to improve the quality of life of their patients.

Barb Billings, Drew Toth, Micah Ward, Cynthia Upham, Kellie Goulet, Tony Sopko, Kerry Gembreska, Dee Tilley, Michelle Hickam, and Lisa Graham