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December 1 • December 31

www.toledocitypaper.com

December 1- December 31, 2023 Vol. 26 • Issue 12

MARKETPLACE CHANGES

Adams Street Media Co. What quality do you most admire in others?

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledocitypaper.com) AUTHENTICITY.

UPDATES IN LOCAL BUSINESS

Organic Ingredients’ Weekly Show at Maumee Bay Brewing Company

Co-publisher/ Chief Financial Officer

Carnales Taqueria, which opened in 2022 at 3370 Lagrange St. in Toledo, now has a second location in Temperance, Michigan. Tijuana style street food favorites. 7400 Lewis Ave. Unit E. carnalestaqueriatoledo.com Dallas Tap Room, adjoining J&G’s Pizza Palace, is open with an extended menu of J&G’s pizza, wine and cocktails.

5694 Main St. 419-882-6061. facebook.com/UpsideBrewing

Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledocitypaper.com) INTEGRITY.

Editorial Assignment Editor: Riley Runnells (editor@adamsstreetpublishing.com) RELIABILITY; IT MEANS A LOT TO ME WHEN PEOPLE PUT IN THE EFFORT AND SHOW UP FOR THE PEOPLE THEY CARE ABOUT.

Fuller Art House has expanded and remodeled its downtown Sylvania studio to accommodate more art classes alongside the gallery. 5679 Main St. 419-882-8949. facebook.com/ thefullerarthouse

Contributing Writers: Janet Amid, Steven Sloan, Curtis Deeter, Audrey Blaufuss, Autumn Vasquez, Isabella Pennesse, Jennifer Kellow-Fiorini, Debbie Miszak, Srestha Chattopadhyaya Interns: Leslie Anne Shore, Jordan Hamilton, Andrew Burroughs

Harbor opened a new mental healthcare center at 3909 Woodley Road. Serving the community for over 100 years, Harbor provides youth, adults, seniors and families with a full range of mental health, telehealth and substance use disorder treatment services. harbor.org

Advertising Sales Director Mike Mori (mmori@adamsstreetpublishing.com) PERSEVERENCE. Sales Coordinator Libby Cassidy

(sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) CONSIDERATION.

Hospice of Northwest Ohio purchased ProMedica’s Ebeid Hospice Residence on the Flower Hospital campus in Sylvania, expanding Hospice of Northwest Ohio’s footprint including locations at East River Road and South Detroit Avenue. 5200 Harroun Road. 419824-1444. hospicenews.com

Account Executives: Gabbi Huff (ghuff@adamsstreetpublishing.com) A UNIQUE SENSE OF HUMOR. Bonnie Hunter

(bhunter@adamsstreetpublishing.com) KINDNESS.

Jenny Leach

(jleach@adamsstreetpublishing.com) HONESTY.

Maumee Valley Chocolate and Candy, a locally owned chocolate and retro candy shop at 101 E. Wayne St in downtown Maumee, is opening a second location in downtown Toledo’s Fort Industry Square. valleycandy.com

Art/Production Production Manager: Imani Lateef

(imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) TENDERNESS.

Senior Designer: Leah Foley

(leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

The Ohio State University has added a Lucas County extension at the Toledo Botanical Garden Metropark. The extension service – operated with county, state, and federal funds and grants – provides programming and educational information on Agricultural and Natural Resources, Family and Consumer Sciences, 4-H Youth Development, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP-ED) and Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP). Lucas.osu.edu Wife’s Ramen & Pho has opened in Perrysburg with main dishes of pho and ramen. Closed Mondays. 10093 Fremont Pike. 567-898-2027. wifesramenandpho. business.site Rite Aid has closed two more Toledoarea stores, including the 3911 Secor Road location, and the 5890 Monroe St. location. For more information on the company’s restructure, visit riteaid.com.

The Monster Shawarma re-opened its business in October under the new name Shawarma & More. Shawarma & More on Facebook.

Know of any changes in the area?

Send them to editor@adamsstreetpublishing.com

BEING HUMBLE.

Web Master, Digital Media: Nathaniel Light (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com) HONESTY. Digital Media & Social Media: Margot Jacobs

(margot@adamsstreetpublishing.com) AUTHENTICITY.

Administration Accounting: Robin Armstrong

(rarmstrong@toledocitypaper.com) KINDNESS AND HONESTY. Distribution: Karena Adams

(distribution@toledocitypaper.com)

PERSERVERANCE AND RESILIENCE IN FACING ADVERSITY.

Advertising/General Info For advertising and general information, call 419-244-9859 or fax 419-244-9871. E-mail ads to adsin@toledocitypaper.com. Deadline for advertising copy 2pm. Friday before publication. Toledo City Paper subscriptions are available by mail for $28/quarterly or $75 per year at Toledo City Paper, 1120 Adams St., Toledo, Ohio 43604. One copy free per person per week; extra copies $1 each. Persons taking copies for any reason other than personal use are subject to prosecution.

Letters to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are subject to editing, and should include the writer’s full name and phone number. Any letter submitted to the editor or publisher may be printed at the publisher’s discretion in issues subsequent to its receipt. ©2023-2024 by Adams Street Media Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form without written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

Also publishers of:

Finch & Fern Book Co.: A Bookstore for the Community

This holiday season, may happiness be at your door.

May it knock early, stay late and leave the gifts of peace, love, joy and good health behind.

we run on Coffee & christmas cheer

Happy Holidays to all of our readers.

Member

Audited by

FLYINGRHINOCOFFEE.COM | 419-378-1798

201 MORRIS ST., SUITE G, TOLEDO, OH 43604

www.toledocitypaper.com

December 1 • December 31

3

Feel like a happy camper in the Pink Flamingo Lounge!

Get your party started with the area’s one and only Photo Booth on wheels.

Toledo Hemp Center Community Drive ‘Socks It To The Homeless’

We have the cutest, hippest, 1960’s vintage camper photo booth trailers.

Complete with a printer and its own power source. Have all the fun, plus it’s a cool prop for some photos.

Lucas County Implementing New Emergency Alert System

Pair the Pink Flamingo Lounge with the matching 1958 Buick Special Rivera Coupe. Travel your day in style in this perfect original road machine. She is the perfect background for your wedding portraits. Imagine climbing in and waving goodbye out the rear window, with tin cans dragging off the huge chrome bumper.

Lucas County is encouraging citizens to sign up for Lucas County Alerts, a new emergency alert system. A free service for those that live or work in Lucas County, text message or emails will be sent regarding any area emergencies including snow emergency levels, tornado warnings, evacuation or shelter in place orders and more. Residents can customize the alerts received based on the subject or the geographic location. lucascountyalerts.com.

Grand Lubell Events is also a party, wedding and video photographer plus photo booth provider. We have a large group of classic cars to use as props or a ride. Look to us for unique solutions for any special event.

Toledo launches food waste collection program

Toledo has named three area parks as drop-off sites for compostable waste: Swan Creek Preserve, 4659 Airport Highway; Glass City Metropark; and Toledo Botanical Garden Metropark, 5434 W Bancroft St. Individuals can drop off food scraps and other items for composting at these locations and GoZero, a composting business, will move the materials to an EPA-certified facility. Ktlcb.org.

419-882-1984 | VISIT GRANDLUBELL.COM

Toledo Hemp Center, 4925 Jackman Road, is joining with other local businesses to “Sock It To The Homeless” this winter. This partnership aims to collect new, unworn socks, the most needed yet least donated items, for the area’s homeless community. With Toledo’s harsh winters, the need for warm socks is a necessity for those living on the streets. Along with the Toledo Hemp Center, other local businesses with collection points include Crunch Fitness, Papa’s Tavern, The Polish Ostrich, Daffy’s, 5 Pints Bar & Grille, Hammer’s Grill, The Tattoo Shop, Wheelin On The Rocks, Kickstand Saloon, Charles E. Boyk Law Offices, Mayfly Tavern and Toledo Indoor Garden. This year’s sock collection drive runs until Jan. 7, 2024.

419-724-9588. toledohempcenter.com

TolHouse opens Panda Workspace

Panda Workspace, a 7,000 sq. ft. coworking space, is a members-only workspace for innovators, creators, entrepreneurs and other professionals. The space is for members looking for inspiration or a space to work and share ideas with teammates in private conference rooms and collaborative environments.

1447 N Summit St. tolhouse.com/panda

Wine & Glitter

The Toledo Club Presents

16th Annual Parade of Trees

Over 45 uniquely decorated trees and wreaths up for auction December 1-31

Holiday Shopping

FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

featuring lovely items from local vendors

Hundreds of grateful charities benefit from the sale of this remarkable event.

Join Us for the lighting of the trees Friday, December 1st, 5-6pm

December 12 th 5 pm - 8 pm

MUSIC, RAFFLES, CASH BAR, GRAZING STATIONS, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT...

AND IT’S FREE TO ATTEND.

Be the first to see the trees lit!

Stay for the DickensDinner at 6pm (See Page 34)

JOIN US

HOLIDAY BUFFETS LUNCH

December 5, 6 & 7 11am-2pm 235 14TH STREET TOLEDO, OHIO 43604

FOR MORE INFORMATION

TOLEDOCLUB.ORG 4

DINNER

December 12, 13 & 14 5-8:30pm

December 1 • December 31

RESERVATIONS 419-243-2200 Online or through the tc app

www.toledocitypaper.com

CITY POLITICS ‘Tis the Season for Spending Wade’s budget and City Politics

By Johnny Hildo

We suspect you missed the news.

Whilst prepping to give your family the big bird on Turkey Day, and fretting over Aunt Gertrude’s seating arrangement, given her peculiar odor, you prob missed the latest.

No, not the November 7 election results. Of course you caught the fact that Ohio voters respect a woman’s right to bodily autonomy. And the right to flame a big fatty. As for local elections, if you missed the results, just check our column from last issue. We were spot on.

Nope, none of that. You missed Wade presenting his proposed budget to Toledo City Council. And what a doozy it is!

See, Wade is the fortunate son. He caught lightning in a bottle as Toledo mayor. While his predecessors were saddled with struggling economies and attendant tax revenue problems, Wade has been blessed by billions upon billions of federal infusions into the economy. Not to mention a cool one hunnerd eighty mill directly into city coffers.

What would you do with record revenues? Presto! Blow the whole wad!

Windfall

Back to the budget. Wade proposes spending nearly three hunnerd thirty million in the general fund. This is over fifty million more than the actual expenditures just four years ago.

Of course, four years ago was the pandemic year. When income tax revenues declined for the first time in years. And federal largesse had yet to save the farm.

How does Wade propose to fund record expenditures? By mortgaging the future.

Duh! First, Wade’s budget assumes record income tax revenue. As in, a city rolling in dough. Flush with cash. That sort of thing.

Next, the budget assumes a transfer of over twenny-five mill from the capital improvement budget. That’s right, more rob-

bing Peter to pay Paul shenanigans Wade promised to eliminate once and for all.

The budget is officially balanced by tens of millions in federal ARPA funds.

The once-in-a-lifetime windfall that must be encumbered by the end of next year and spent by two years after that.

Talk about lucky. This means Wade can continue to draw on this fed cash cow all the way through his remaining term. Lavish spending on pet projects will cement his legacy as a great mayor.

You see, Wade can’t seem to live within his means. Not even these historically bloated means. Not even with projected record tax revenues, and continued capital improvement transfers, and one-time fed money.

Nope. His proposed budget draws down the fund balance by another couple of mill.

Never mind what will happen when the economy stagnates, as it inevitably will.

And the pennies from heaven dry up. And there’s no more fund balance to draw down. Hoo boy.

Because Wade will be term limited out of office by then. Leaving his successor to tighten the belt and clean up the mess.

This makes it all the more interesting to see who will run for this fool’s errand in twenty twenty-five. Stay tuned.

Tis The season To smile perfectbraces.com

Please Vote us BEST ORTHODONTIST Again!

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Election recap

We don’t want to gloat. Aw, heck, sure we do. Here’s how our election predictions fared. We predicted turnout over thirty percent countywide. It topped forty.

We predicted easy victories for incumbents, and all incumbents won. Like, blowout wins. As in, why did these yo-yo challengers waste our time kind of wins.

To recap, we were right. But you already knew that.

It’s why you read this column.

Lead Line Identification The City of Toledo is replacing all city and customer owned lead service lines. If your home was built before 1989, you may have lead pipes.

Schedule an inspection with our canvassing team by calling Engage Toledo. toledo.oh.gov/lead-lines

www.toledocitypaper.com

419-936-2020

SCAN FOR MORE

December 1 • December 31

5

C E L E B R A T E

SAT. 30

’s Eve New YePaarrty Eve me great

for so eld Wines drop at Join Benfi and a ball s ie h c n u w music, m rate the ne m to celeb p 9 f o . k N c 2 0 ra 1 es, the c enfield Win B . m p o -9 6 .c ines m year! . benfieldw n to n a w S , Main St.

Get Away With Murder, Inc. presents an audience participation whodunit. There’s turmoil at the North Pole. Enjoy the live performance with a complete package of a 3-course dinner, soft drinks, gratuity & tax included.

Cash Bar is available. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. $60-$65.

6:30-9:30pm. The Spaghetti Warehouse, 42 S. Superior St.

and most ’s largest o d le o ges T s e party. A Don’t mis Year’s Ev w e N m e ro iv p party exclus only. The ity p n u u d rt n o a p 1 2 hoto op p t e rp a c n o cepti , ises a red mpagne re nd so a h c , e c n entra ainers a Js, entert ble nibbles, D are availa ts re. Ticke iew o V m y h it c C u . m 100-$150 $ . te ri tb ain St. on Even nter, 26 M Event Ce

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December 1 • December 31 10/10/23 12:53 PM

Boog M atrix Mechaie nism NY E Bash Prime Nig h

tlife hosts Toledo’s Original H a party with ippie Hop Rock ban d Boogie Jam Matrix M with spec echanism ial guests Funk Fac Electrifyin tory. g vibes, a nd incred performa ible nces. $25 . 8pm.

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December 1 • December 31

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

What utensil must you have?

A good spoon. Not a stirring spoon, but a plating spoon. I’m very specific about the spoons I like, they can’t be too deep, they need to have the right shape and they need to fit comfortably in my hand.

A Celebrity in Toledo comes to your restaurant, what are you making?

I’m from the school of, it’s about you not me.

We’ve had celebrities dine with us, but we let their experience be calm and private.

How far will you go for an ingredient?

PHOTO BY KELLI MILLER

I’ve driven to Ann Arbor for one ingredient before. Sourcing your ingredients is really important. My dad, bless his heart, has driven out to Huron to pick things up for me on a number of occasions, so I really appreciate that. Finding the right ingredients for what you’re doing is really important.

What chef inspires you the most?

REGISTRY BISTRO 144 N SUPERIOR ST. 419-725-0444 REGISTRYBISTRO.COM

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Foodies of Northwest Ohio are fortunate to have a robust community of restaurants and savvy restaurateurs that provide menus for all palates. However, the restaurants have one very key person running the operation behind the scenes: the chef. Learn more about some of the area’s most talented chefs with Toledo City Paper.

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How do you respond to high pressure situations

All the situations are different. If it’s a Friday or Saturday it’s a little rough.

I think I respond a lot better under those situations – you just have to make it happen.

A Celebrity in Toledo comes to your restaurant, what are you making?

135 W 3RD ST | PERRYSBURG OH | 567-898-2121

8

Yotam Ottolenghi. I like his flavor profile, I like his style of cooking, he’s just a really innovative chef. It’s not innovative like modernist, but innovative in using simple ingredients. I really admire his cuisine.

My lamb shank or my rack of lamb.

They’re two signature items and I’m a lamb guy.

December 1 • December 31

SOUK MEDITERRANEAN KITCHEN & BAR 139 S. HURON ST. 567-777-7685 SOUKKITCHENBAR.COM

What chef inspires you the most?

Local, I’m very good friends with Kengo Kato, and he inspired me and talked me into coming downtown.

Also, the famous Italian Chef Massimo Bottura, because he’s so full of life and animated and I love Italian cooking.

www.toledocitypaper.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PHOTO BY PHOTO DAVE PHOTOGRAPHY

COCINA DE CARLOS 27072 CARRONADE DR. PERRYSBURG 419-872-0200 COCINADECARLOS.COM

What dish on your menu has the craziest backstory?

The Burrito Mijas. Older chefs, sometimes we are under a lot of pressure, and sometimes we forget to eat. We always have fresh pinto beans, so what I do is put steak on the grill, mix it with the beans and cover it with hot sauce and cheese sauce. One day, one of my regular customers noticed I ate that, and asked why we didn’t have it on the menu. Since I have included it on the menu, it’s been very popular.

How far will you go for an ingredient?

I’m crazy. I have a Mexican restaurant, and I like to improve my recipes all the time. I go as far as I can. Once we went to Chicago just for pan de muertos, Day of the Dead bread. Right now I’m working with tlayudas that you make in Oaxaca Mexico. I have family in Mexico, and they send me tlayudas. They start the process over there and we finish it here.

A Celebrity in Toledo comes to your restaurant, what are you making?

The Surf ‘n Turf. A Tomahawk steak and the seven ounce lobster tail.

Walk through your home cooking routine A lot of ramen.

PHOTO BY KELLI MILLER

I’m always working, so when I’m at home on my days off, I cook out during the summer and then in the winter it’s just ramen. I love doing different things with ramen.

What utensil must you have?

Tongs.

What dish on your menu has the craziest backstory?

Authentic Italian

The PB&J Burger. Elvis’ favorite sandwich, so we turned it into a burger and it’s our number one burger.

606 N MCCORD RD. | TOLEDO, OH

MAUMEE BAY BREWING 27 BROADWAY ST. 419-243-1302 MBAYBREW.COM

www.toledocitypaper.com

December 1 • December 31

9

PHOTO BY KELLI MILLER

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Walk through your home cooking routine YE OLDE DURTY BIRD

2 S. ST. CLAIR ST. 419-243-2473 YEOLDEDURTYBIRD.COM

A Celebrity in Toledo comes to your restaurant, what are you making?

From our menu, some of our signature dishes like our mac and cheese, our in-house made reubens or lamb sliders, homemade bread pudding or chili, depending on the person.

I don’t have a normal routine for that, but coffee, an omelet for breakfast, a half sandwich for lunch and I just bought a brand new smoker, so I’ve been having a lot of smoked meats lately.

What utensil must you have?

A good, sharp knife.

What dish on your menu has the craziest backstory? The Durty Chili

Mac. It started off as employees mixing it up together, and chili mac is big in the Ohio area, so it kept going from there.

How do you respond to high pressure situations Pep talk

with my team. There’s always a work around.

A Celebrity in Toledo comes to your restaurant, what are you making?

Chuck short ribs.

What utensil must you have?

Sharp knife and a Sharpie.

How far will you go for an ingredient?

PHOTO BY KELLI MILLER

Upper Iowa.

What do other chefs do that make you cringe?

Put cream in their Alfredo.

READ THE FULL INTERVIEWS WITH THE CHEFS HERE

SHORTY’S TRUE AMERICAN ROADHOUSE

5111 MONROE ST. 419-841-9505 SHORTYSTOLEDO.COM

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December 1 • December 31

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

What’ What ’s On On Tap? Tap? PHOTO BY PHOTO DAVE PHOTOGRAPHY

We’ve Got Blitzen on Tap!

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A Celebrity in Toledo comes to your restaurant, what are you making?

Scallops.

Walk through your home cooking routine I don’t really make much at home – I’m vegetarian.

What utensil must you have?

Rubber spatula.

How far will you go for an ingredient?

We do go to Ann Arbor for mushrooms at Stoney Creek mushrooms, and get our bread at Zingerman’s.

NOV 6-DEC 31

FOR EVERY $50 IN GIFT CARDS YOU PURCHASE WE’LL GIVE YOU A $10 BLITZEN BUCKS BONUS CARD!*

What do other chefs do that make you cringe?

*Offer Valid Now thru December 31.See Card For Details.

Not wearing gloves.

Christmas Dinner Celebration MONDAY, DECEMBER 25, 4-9PM

ADULTS: $39 | KIDS 12 & UNDER: $15 | KIDS 3 & UNDER FREE

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An hour or two if I really need it, or call on my relationships with other vendors.

What do other chefs do that make you cringe?

Cooking the green part of the green onion.

What chef inspires you the most?

Anthony Bourdain started it, but having worked for 3-Star Michelin Chef Dominique Crenn in San Francisco (Atelier Crenn) gave me a new appreciation for farm to table.

PHOTO BY PHOTO DAVE PHOTOGRAPHY

How far will you go for an ingredient?

HOPPY HOUR MO-TH 4-6PM Drafts Starting @ $4 Cocktails Starting @ $5 Glasses of House wine Starting @ $6 25% Off Appetizers MONDAYS KIDS EAT FREE ALL DAY w/ purchase an Adult entree!

TUESDAYS NEW! 2 Burgers for $22 & $2 Buckeye Lagers!

Plus, Live Trivia @ 7PM & 8PM

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How many people do you need in your kitchen to make it sing?

T O BES E L D TO

At least five. Two preps at least, two dedicated to the fryer and one float.

VOTE

WEDNESDAYS NEW! 1/2 Off Toppings BYO Mac & Cheese Deal!

Plus, Live Music 7-10PM THURSDAYS 1/2 Off Pizza*, Pitchers & Growler Fill-ups *Single topping pizzas only.

Add’l toppings available for an add’l charge.

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December 1 • December 31

11

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

MANCY’S IDEAL

PHOTO BY KELLI MILLER

5333 Monroe St. 419-841-0066 mancysideal.com A Celebrity in Toledo comes to your restaurant, what are you making?

Horseradish crusted halibut or brown sugar glazed pork chop.

Walk through your home cooking routine Coffee in the morning, dinner on Sundays.

What chef inspires you the most?

Ina Garten.

How many people do you need in your kitchen to make it sing?

Two.

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December 1 • December 31

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

GIVE THE GIFT OF

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December 1 • December 31

13

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

MANCY’S ITALIAN GRILL 5453 MONROE ST. 419-882-9229 MANCYSITALIAN.COM

That’s hard. A coffee crusted lamb rack with a blueberry balsamic demi and manchego polenta and charred broccolini.

What utensil must you have?

A good knife.

How far will you go for an ingredient?

What utensil must you have?

PHOTO BY KELLI MILLER

My trusty old Robot Coupe wand. It’s a big hand mixer, to make dressings, sauces and other bulk products.

What do other chefs do that make you cringe?

Miscommunication.

Walk me through your home cooking routine.

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Join us

for a holiday wine dinner.

BUBBLES & BIG REDS

What do other chefs do that make you cringe?

Throw things, scream, have temper tantrums. I’m super laid back so I don’t like any of that.

What chef inspires you the most?

I worked at the Duquesne Club in Pittsburgh, and Chef Coughenour reallyinfluenced me and showed me different ways of doing things.

Breakfast is normally a frozen Jimmy Dean sandwich and a glass of orange juice.

Lunch, I’m here picking throughout the day, or a handful of pretzels.

For dinner, normally my wife cooks dinner so I get off the hook on that.

For those who love us, and those who still don’t know they will!

Not too far. I try to source locally as much as I can.

How many people do you need in your kitchen to make it sing?

As many as I can get.

CAIO!

6064 Monroe St. 419-882-6014 ciaorestaurant.com

PHOTO BY KELLI MILLER

PHOTO BY PHOTO DAVE PHOTOGRAPHY

A celebrity in Toledo comes to your restaurant, what are you making?

How do you respond to high pressure situations?

Very calmly. It’s all about solving the problem.

Walk through your home cooking routine?

5:30 pm Reception 6:00 pm Dinner 11 Dec, 2023 567-777-7685

Kinda gives a whole new meaning to stocking stuffer!

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What dish on your menu has the craziest backstory?

RESERVATIONS

Check for our specials and events

Watch Chef Moussa Salloukh on youtube.com

139 South Huron | Downtown | soukkitchenbar.com

14

I have two kids, so I make food for everyone. Breakfast, french toast, bacon, eggs. Lunch, I try to keep it simple with sandwiches. For dinner, |I’ll make some kind of stir fry.

Our sausage tortellini. We were doing a menu revamp, and our corporate chef had four different sausage pasta recipes. Halfway through the tasting with our owner and CFO, he asked me to throw together a sausage pasta to have something back there, and they picked mine.

What chef inspires you the most?

Anthony Bourdain.

How many people do you need in your kitchen to make it sing?

Me and five others.

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From Our Family to yours.....

We’d like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

How do you respond to high pressure situations?

I step outside for a few minutes, take a deep breath, come back in and back to the sketch book.

We always get through it as a team.

What utensil must you have?

Chopsticks and a knife.

PHOTO BY KELLI MILLER

Shobu by Kengo Hollywood Casino 1968 Miami St. 419-661-5066 hollywoodcasinotoledo.com Owner, Kengo Sushi & Yakitori Kato Ramen

We would like to thank you for allowing us to serve you for the past 45 years and we look forward to serving you for the next 45.

What dish on your menu has the craziest backstory?

Scallops with uni cream sauce.

I first made it for a friend who refused to eat uni.

How far will you go for an ingredient?As far as I need to.

What do other chefs do that make you cringe?

Not wiping their knife and cutting board.

What chef inspires you the most?

419-283-4864

Not a chef, my dad (Papa K) and mother.

How many people do you need in your kitchen to make it sing?

Five. Each person is instrumental.

How do you respond to high pressure situations? If it’s something out of my control I just roll with it. Supply chains are still a bit of an issue but not as bad as it was a few years ago. Using multiple vendors also helps with those issues. The busier we are in the kitchen in a high pressure evening gets the adrenaline pumping. I love the controlled chaos.

How far will you go for an ingredient? As far as Amazon.com What do other chefs do that make you cringe? Chefs are typically very

arrogant and cocky. Working with some in my younger days they would scream and hollar to a point servers would cry and other cooks were scared for there lives. No my running a kitchen. It’s loud music and an occasional line dance.

What chef inspires you the most?

Bobby

FACEBOOK PHOTO

Fley, he can turn something so basic and spin it into a culinary masterpiece. I almost get embarrassed with the cooking knowledge he has compared to what I have learned.

(On left) WHITEHOUSE INN/CRUST

10835 Waterville St. 419-877-1180 crustpizzawhitehouse.com

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December 1 • December 31

15

PHOTO BY KELLI MILLER

PHOTO BY KELLI MILLER

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MANCY’S STEAKHOUSE

953 Phillips Ave. 419-476-4154 mancyssteakhouse.com A Celebrity in Toledo comes to your restaurant, what are you making?

Day aged strip steak.

Walk through your home cooking routine

I’m here 10 am to 10 pm five days a week, or whatever my kid wants.

- Executive Chef (Center) - Rosie’s (Left) - Rosaria’s (Right)

How far will you go for an ingredient?

How much gas do I have in my truck?

What chef inspires you the most?

Former Mancy’s Chef Mike Rosendaul.

ROSIE’S ITALIAN GRILLE

ROSARIA’S ON THIRD

606 N McCord Road 419-866-5007 rosiesitaliangrille.com

135 W. Third St. 567-686-7644 rosariason3rd.com

A Celebrity in Toledo comes to your restaurant, what are you making?

Vic: Anything we normally make.

Joel: We treat everyone like a celebrity. But as a chef, I would go toward

How many people do you need in your kitchen to make it sing?

14.

a dish that is mine on the menu. The honey goat chicken on the Rosie’s menu is my baby.

Eric: We have a lot of different options so it’s really up to them.

Vic: We try to cater to both markets, fancy or family-friendly.

Walk through your home cooking routine Joel: Fried bologna. I go through kicks, but as basic and close to what

a college kid would eat.

Eric: I don’t have a routine, just whatever comes up.

Vic: I usually cook at home on my days off. My go-tos are Indian curries.

eviews food r

with

What utensil must you have?

Joel: Tongs, or a dry, white towel.

Eric: A wet towel.

Joel: He’s the only chef I’ve ever worked with who has a wet towel at all times.

m sarcas f o e a sid

How far will you go for an ingredient?

Vic: The nice thing is, we don’t have to go super far. We have really talented purveyors around here that care about us and the business.

est b r o f e m r o f e ! t t o n v u o e c s Plea l media ac socia FOR N U O Y K IO T H A N N O M I N AT YO U R 16

What chef inspires you the most?

Joel: Not to get sappy, but Eric. I’ve learned most of what I know from him.

Vic: I’ve learned a lot from Eric, too. He’s very good at teaching me how to

handle situations and stress. As far as famous chefs go, Eric Ripert is someone I look up to a lot.

Eric: If I watch TV, Bobby Flay. I don’t pay attention to that stuff though.

What dish on your menu has the craziest backstory Eric: Probably Mama’s Bread. Rosie’s opened in 1981, and it was

a little deli/gameroom on Sylvania Avenue. 20-30 people would line up at the door, and they wondered how they could get these people food while they were waiting. So they made this Mama’s Bread and started passing it out, and then people wanted to buy it. But they couldn’t sell it because it wasn’t on the menu, so they put it on the menu. It’s our number one selling item.

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Soto Signature Salon & Spa 580 Craig Drive #6 419-872-5555 sotosalonspa.com

Soto Signature Salon & Spa has all of your beauty and relaxation needs. Be it a solo gift card, redeemable for salon and spa services and retail products; a retreat package with a massage, facial mani-pedi and hair treatment and style; or a beauty express package, with a massage, facial and mani-pedi, Soto’s gift certificates have you covered for the holidays.

Loma Linda

10400 Airport Hwy 419-865-5455 lomalindamexican.com Loma Linda, a family run operation and Toledo legacy, has promised customers excellent food and memorable experiences since 1955.

It’s never too early to get started on your holiday shopping with these thoughtful suggestions from our gift guide. Food, beauty services, top-notch hospitality or thoughtful one-of-a-kind creations: find these family’s favorite gifts at these local businesses.

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alice-louise press

Angie Scott Skin Health

&

CUSTOM WEDDING

3409 W Sterns Road 734-568-6066 angiescottskinhealth.com

S AV E T H E DAT E S

I N V I TAT I O N S

DAY O F I T E M S

Angie Scott Skin Health is a full- service medical spa offering comprehensive, cutting edge face and body care.The goal is to develop lasting relationships with our patients with our honest, transparent approach to a lifetime of skin health. With consultations, massage therapy, laser light therapy, skin rejuvenation, injectables and permanent makeup, Angie Scott can give you healthy skin in the dry, winter months. For more information on holiday and seasonal deals, visit angiescottskinhealth.com and sign up for the newsletter.

TAKE THESE GIFT IDEAS WITH YOU

follow us on

alicelouisepress

downtown perrysburg :: www.alice-louise.com :: 419-345-8045 www.toledocitypaper.com

December 1 • December 31

17

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Please vote us best Country Club & Golf Course!

bers non-mem 25 & s r e b m 20 Me r 2024 and book you gs now! weddin

2023

BESTDO

Belmont Country Club (419) 666-0440 29601 Bates Rd, Perrysburg, OH

18

TOLE

VOTE

Find like and follow us on facebook!

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Boyd’s Retro Candy 954 Phillips Ave. 419-720-7387 boydsretrocandy.com

A true old time candy store where you’ll find candy from all time periods. Specializing in the 50s, 60s and 70s but satisfying candy lovers of every generation, patrons can purchase by the individual piece or in bulk. Take home some candy for you and your loved ones, treat your party or wedding guests to the corner store loves of your childhood, make special retro gift bags for gatherings and more. With over 1,000 candy choices, it will be easy to find a holiday gift choice for your loved ones.

Stop by to order your holiday florals and get a few extra special gifts.

beautifulbloomsbyjen.com (419) 517-8821 5675 Main St. Sylvania, OH 43560

PLEASE VOTE US

Best Home/Gift Shop & Best Floral Shop

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

GI GI VE SOFT OTHE TO F 2023

BESTDO TOLE

Holiday gift card packages now available!

VOTE Please Vote us!

Women’s Salon Day Spa Aesthetician

Needle Masters

527 S. Reynolds Road 419-906-7072 facebook.com/NeedleMasters Needle Masters has the tattoo and piercing resources you need this holiday season. Established in 1999, Needle Masters provides large, private booths, a clean, sterile environment, single use items only and Red Cross Certified artists. The artists specialized in a variety of styles ranging from new skool, gothic, traditional, black & gray, portraits, realism, color bomb and graffiti art. Though appointments and an idea of the design prior are always appreciated, Needle Masters takes walkins and will draw your tattoo design on the spot for you. For your holiday tattoo and piercing gifts, visit Needle Masters.

(Lauren Updike)

Eyebrow Specialist (Leah Wilson)

Nail Technician (Liz Jozefowicz)

419-872-5555

Inspiring the evolution of beauty for over 20 years!

580 CRAIG DR. SUITE 6 | PERRYSBURG

Beauty School

Did you vote?

(Summit Salon Academy)

Makeup Artist

(Lauren Updike)

SOTOSALONSPA.COM

You have until Dec. 15th toledocitypaper.com

Here for you

this holiday season You have a choice for your behavioral healthcare. Choose Arrowhead Behavioral Health.

Arrowhead Behavioral Health is here for you during the holidays. We offer no-cost assessments, 24/7.

Most insurances accepted and walk-ins are welcome.

Please vote us best addiction recovery services

arrowheadbehavioral.com ◆ 419-891-9333

20

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Belmont Country Club 29601 Bates Road 419-666-0440 thebelmontcountryclub.com

Belmont Country Club is a private, member-owned club that providing family-oriented recreational and social activities. The golf course is designed and maintained to be challenging and enjoyable for all skill levels.

As a member, participate in everything the club has to offer including unlimited golf, Toledo’s only indoor private club tennis courts, summer swimming at the pool and a variety of social events all year long. Purchase a regular membership, an intermediate membership, a junior membership or a social recreational membership. Visit the website to learn more about becoming a part of the Belmont Country Club.

Make sweet memories this holiday!

954 Phillips Ave.

PLEASE VOTE US BEST CANDY STORE

Toledo, OH Mon - Sat 12pm to 6pm Closed Sunday

boydsretrocandy.com

F E L I Z Reve Salon & Spa 5366 Main St. 419-885-1140 revesalonandspa.com

Reve Salon & Spa is a professional team of educated, creative artists.

They are dedicated to offering a personalized experience with premiere service and products with a genuine touch of luxury. Reve offers salon, spa, makeup, nail and cosmetic services. Head to Reve with a loved one for a self-care holiday, or buy gift cards for Reve’s services to give to those you care about.

N

AV I D A D

2023

BESTDO

THE ORIGINAL

TOLE

VOTE

Best Mexican Restaurant

®

serving Toledo’s #1 Margarita & Mexican and American cuisine

Join Us For All Of Your Holiday Gatherings

Mancy’s Restaurant Group Various locations 419-476-4154 mancys.com

The Mancy name has been synonymous with the promise of quality, honest value, and family since 1921. Restaurant founder Gus Mancy was born and raised on the Isle of Crete, and moved to Toledo in 1916, bringing with him the tradition of cooking with only the freshest and best ingredients. Since then, Mancy’s Restaurant Group has opened several restaurants, including Mancy’s Bluewater Grille, Mancy’s Steakhouse, Mancy’s Italian Grill, Mancy’s Ideal, Shorty’s True American Roadhouse and the Bottle Shop at Mancy’s Italian. For the holidays, head to one of the restaurants for the full dining experience, buy gift cards for dining later or purchase a bottle of wine from the bottle shop for your loved ones. For more information on holiday deals, visit Mancy’s website.

Holiday Gift Cards

available now!

Gift Card

venturasmexicanrestaurant.com

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happy holidays ,000

kage of 3 - $1

• BBL Hero Pac s)

($350 saving

Flick’s Package Liquor

•Moxi Package of 3 - $1,500

GIFT CARD SALE buy $100

($450 Savings )

Glow + • Diainmizond ge P e eel Packa Illum el a trav of 3 & receive $700 m firming seru

worth of gift cards, receive $20 in bonus cash*

s)

($400 saving

•

ZO 3-Step Peel Pack of 3 & rec age eive a free travel firming se rum - $65 ($375 savi 0 ngs)

*can be used on full price services and products AFTER the first of the year and cannot be used toward any promos.

Bonus cash expires on 2/29/24

3320 Sterns Road 734-854-2000 flicks4fun.com/# Flick’s continues its reputation of having a well-stocked selection of specialty liquors, a large wine gallery and one of the largest beer selections in the Bedford & Lambertville area. Your official party headquarters, Flick’s also carries items like gift baskets, deli/party trays and a variety of grocery products. More than just your average liquor store, Flick’s creates lasting memories from our gift baskets and party planning to our outstanding customer service. Get your holiday gifts or party supplies at Flick’s.

Hoen’s Garden Center & Landscaping 1710 Perrysburg Holland Road 419-865-6566 hoensgardencenter.com

All packages and memberships purchased in the app will qualify for a free gift

Call or visit to schedule your appointment

angiescottskinhealth.com

Hoen’s grows annuals, perennials, shrubs, rose bushes, herbs, vegetable plants and more.

They pride themselves on their enormous variety of hanging baskets, potted flowers and custom potted containers. There’s also a landscape division, as well as the continually expanding retail store, now offering the largest selection of miniature and fairy garden plants and accessories in the area and a succulent and terrarium department. Get your loved one the gift of nature this year.

M. 9a-5p Tu. | W. | Th. 9a-7p F. 9a-3p

CONTINUED ON P24

Gift cards for a jolly good time Deer! a

VOTE US BEST “Mexicant” n Restaura

PLEASE VOTE FOR

Needle Masters

FIND, LIKE & FOLLOW US!

68 years

2023

BESTDO

Serving Toledo

TOLE

VOTE

Good food, Great drinks and a Good time.

Loma Linda

®

22

AILABL E NOW!

TATTOO SHOP

PIERCER - WHITEY TATTOO ARTIST - JAIME KAIM

(419) 865-5455 Airport Highway | Toledo

lomalindamexican.com

GIFT CARDS AV

5801 Telegraph Rd 419-476-9015

527 S. Reynolds Rd 419-531-4652

WWW.NEEDLEMASTERS.COM

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GIVE THE GIFT OF DELICIOUS FOOD AND DRINK! PURCHASE GIFT CARDS FOR YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY TODAY! One gift card, 5 great restaurants

FOR RESERVATIONS VISIT

MANCYS.COM

BEST ITALIAN - Mancy’s Italian BEST BURGER JOINT - Mancy’s Ideal BEST STEAKHOUSE - Mancy’s Steaks BEST SEAFOOD - Mancy’s Bluewater BEST BBQ - Shorty’s True American Roadhouse

Happy Holidays from our Family to Yours!

PLEASE VOTE FOR US

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Durocher’s

5555 Monroe St. 567-408-2400 durochersonline.com

This Year, Make it Personal.

Durocher’s is a local, family-owned discount appliance and furniture store founded in 1951

by Don Durocher. The low prices, in-depth product knowledge and top-notch customer service set them apart from the competition.

The dedicated sales staff can help you find the right products in your budget. The service department and factory-authorized master technicians will help repair your product quickly and professionally in your home or in-store – something few retailers can offer.

They carry the area’s largest selection of appliances, furniture and bedding. Find new home goods with Durocher’s this holiday.

328 W. Dussel Dr. Maumee, OH | 419.897.0591 | wellframeit.com

This Holiday Season

FINE WINES  SELECT TEAS  ARTISANAL BAKED GOODS

HELP US SAVE LIVES Foster  Volunteer  Donate

We saved over 800 cats and dogs last year thanks to everyone's generous help and donations. Volunteer opportunities are not limited to fostering but include donating food and litter, transporting animals, answering our FIXX line phone calls, helping out at adoption events and picking up donations.

For more information or to make a donation:

Visit PlannedPethood.org or our Facebook @plannedpethoodinc Send donations by mail to P.O. Box 350908 Toledo, OH 43635

2023

BEST

TOLEDO

VOTE

CALL TODAY! (419) 826-3499

Pet Adoption Service • Pet Rescue

915 N. SUMMIT STREET, SUITE 101, TOLEDO OH (419)464-5646 Tue – Fri: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM Sat: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Mon/Sun: Closed Expanded hours coming soon

GOLDENHINDWINEBAR.COM

GIFT CARD SPECIALS AVAILABLE NOW THRU CHRISTMAS EVE

Buy $25 Gift Card-Get $5 Gift Card FREE Buy $50 Gift Card-Get $10 Gift Card FREE Buy $75 Gift Card-Get $15 Gift Card FREE Buy $100 Gift Card-Get $20 Gift Card FREE

Holidays at Hoens ’ The

Deck the halls with fresh evergreens and natural decor for the holiday season.

Bundled Greens Centerpieces Christmas Trees Grave Blankets Home Decor

Pine Roping Poinsettias Winter Florals Winter Planters Wreaths

F

4” PO REE I with C NSET TIA h Tree p ristmas urcha se! *exclu sio apply ns

FRESH PICKED

MEYER LEMONS Fresh from our 55 year old tree!

Available through December.

THANK YOU FOR NOMINATING DUROCHER’S!

Enjoy indoors for Christmas, then plant it outside next spring!

Please vote for us in Best of Toledo!

Visit our website for holiday hours 1710 Perrysburg Holland Rd. (419) 865-6566 www.hoensgardencenter.com

222 S Monroe St • Monroe, MI • 734.241.7626 5555 Monroe St • Sylvania, OH • 567.408.2400

POTTED

SPRUCE TREES

24

December 1 • December 31

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Golden Hind Wine Bar & Pastries

YOUR

915 N Summit St. 419-464-5646 goldenhindwinebar.com

Golden Hind Wine Bar provides tea, pastries, wine and a comfortable atmosphere for patrons to hangout. Everything is made from scratch with quality ingredients, using local ingredients as much as possible. The menu includes sweet and savory pastries such as pot pies and quiches, breakfast sandwiches, salads, cheese and charcuterie boards, as well as cookies and brownies. For the holidays, Golden Hind has gift card specials, where if you buy gift cards $25 or more, you can get another gift card for free. Visit the website or cafe for more information.

Holiday

EVENT. OUR PLACE. backfortycatering.com

Happy Holidays

from the PT Link team Please vote for us, 2023

BESTDO TOLE

VOTE again!

n Live Grill Catering n Large and small groups

from 10 to 1,000

• TOLEDO•PERRYSBURG•MAUMEE•SWANTON•SYLVANIA•BOWLING GREEN•POINT PLACE •WATERVILLE •OAK HARBOR•LAMBERTVILLE•OREGON•FINDLAY•KENTON • WOODVILLE•MONROE, MI •ADRIAN, MI

419.559.5591 PTLINKTHERAPY.COM

n Food truck careting n Indoor/Outdoor event and

banquet space for up to 110

CALL TO RESERVE YOUR DATES

419.724.7901

5215 Monroe Street Toledo, OH.

Your official holiday party headquarters!

Check out our holiday specials BOXED GIFT SETS, CUSTOM GIFT BASKETS & MORE!

2023

CHEESE BALLS  SINFUL PRETZELS  POPCORN POPPED FRESH DAILY

BESTDO TOLE

10% off

VOTE

Please Vote for FLICK’S Best Liquor Store

6+ BOTTLES OF WINE

3320 Sterns Rd., Lambertville, Michigan 48144 | (734) 854-2000 | www.toledocitypaper.com

December 1 • December 31

@flickspackageliquor 25

POPPERS Dallas Taproom Now Open!

Mouthwatering Italian and Greek foods with a rotating selection of house-crafted beers.

Women’s “Wine and Win” Wednesdays

On Wednesdays at the Kickstand, every woman gets a free raffle ticket for a 9 pm drawing to win a free gift.

You don’t need to be present to win. Don Coats plays music beginning at 8 pm. Kickstand Saloon, 2045 W Alexis Road. 419-206-4129. Kickstand Saloon on Facebook.

Three New HEAVY Brews

HEAVY Beer Co. has released three new brews, including Riverwalk Wit, the first ever Metroparks licensed beer, Argyle Christmas Ale, in keeping with the holiday season, and OH Yeah! Hazy IPA. All are available in cans at various retail locations and at the HEAVY Beer Co brewery and featured on tap at local bars and restaurants including HEAVY Wheelhouse at Oak Openings Preserve Metropark and The Garden by Poco Piatti at Glass City Metropark. heavy.beer

Monthly Manhattan’s Wine Tasting

Every first Wednesday of the month, savor delicious wines and small plate pairings at Manhattan’s Pub ‘n Cheer. This month’s tasting is Wednesday, Dec. 6 at 7:30 pm. Call 419-243-6675 to reserve a spot.

TAPROOM HOURS MON AND TUES: 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm (closed for lunch) WED AND THURS: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm FRI AND SAT: 11:00 am – Midnight SUNDAY: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm LIMITED LUNCH MENU 11AM-4PM

5692 Main St, Sylvania | (419) 882-6061

CULINARY CALENDAR WEDNESDAYS

Craft Beer Dinner at Packo’s At the Park If you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, this event is for you. Packo’s at the Park hosts their Craft Beer Dinner every Wednesday with an entree, a side and two craft beers included. $19.99. 5-8pm. 419-246-1111. Packo’s at the Park, 7 S. Superior St.

FRIDAY, Dec. 1

Dickens Dinner and A Christmas Carol Dickensian feast at the Historic Toledo Club followed by A Christmas Carol at the Valentine Theater. The Toledo Club offers a traditional old English dinner inspired by Charles Dickens’ holiday classic. The menu includes roast beef, sausages, potatoes and Christmas pudding. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. $50-$85. 419- 243-2200.

The Toledo Club, 235 14th St.

TUESDAY, Dec. 5

Prohibition Repeal Day Speakeasy Party Quenched & Tempered Brewing Co. will become a 1920s speakeasy, with secret passphrases and menu items and live jazz to celebrate the repeal of prohibition.

7pm. 419-469-2277. Quenched & Tempered Brewing Co., 1210 Jackson St. @ QuenchedandTempered

26

December 1 • December 31

THURSDAY, Dec. 7

Beer & Wine Tasting Join Schedel Gardens & Arboretum with personal chef, Jennifer Schuerman for a beer & wine tasting with creative foods. $36.05.

6:30-8pm. 419-862-3182. Schedel Gardens & Arboretum, 19255 W Portage River S Rd., Elmore. schedel-gardens.org

MONDAY, Dec. 11

Fabulous Fudge Get hands-on to help make a delicious Candy Cane Fudge, while enjoying a variety of samples and the history of chocolate and fudge making. $35. 6-8pm. 419-874-4174. 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. 577foundation.org

THURSDAY, Dec. 14

Mac & Cheese Flights Take time out from the hustle & bustle to enjoy a local wine or craft beer and comfort food. $15. 5pm. 419-875-6474. Majestic Oak Winery, 13554 Mohler Rd, Grand Rapids. majesticoakwinery.com

FRIDAY, Dec. 22

Christmas Cookie & Wine Pairing Find a perfect pairing with delicious Christmas cookies and Benfield Wines! Plenty of pairing recommendations or pick your own. 3-9pm.

419-780-9463. Benfield Wines, 104 N. Main St., Swanton. Benfieldwines.com

POINT & CLICK for more Foodie Events

www.toledocitypaper.com

CHOW LINE Howl for Old School

Whiskey and the Wolf channels a 1960s steakhouse

By Dave Kubacki

JEFF’S HAULING & CLEANUP BELSETDO 2023

VOTE FOR TOLEDO’S BEST JUNK REMOVAL

TO

VOTE

THE MESS INSIDE IS FRIGHTFUL...

BUT OUR TEAM IS SO DELIGHTFUL

GIVE US A CALL, WE’VE SEEN IT ALL! Most of us have heard the phrase, “business and family don’t mix.” For Whiskey and the Wolf owners Tony and George Bardwell, however, being siblings has created the perfect mix.

A Nostalgic Experience

The vision for Whiskey and the Wolf was largely conceived by Tony, who hoped to create a throwback to 1960s steakhouses, buoyed by classic dishes.

His idea, though, was to translate those classic dishes, such as steak au poivre, into a more casual sandwich form.

“That was such an interesting era for restaurants,” Tony says, referring to the 1960’s. “That’s when I grew up and learned more about the business. We wanted to create something that was familiar for customers, but had an added twist.”

Tony has been in the restaurant business for 30 years, working in the Chicago and California markets since he was 26. That experience provided a strong foundation for bringing this new concept to reality. Despite his experience, Tony acknowledged there have been challenges.

“I have been out of [Toledo] as long as I have lived in [Toledo]” Tony said. “The Toledo market and our location has a different scale than some of the bigger markets I’ve worked in. I think we’ve created something, though, that’s approachable and that people can connect with.”

Eve Wi ryon tho e i ut P s W rej elco ud me ice ...

Brothers and prime beef

For Tony, his brother George was the perfect partner, both because of his personality and his skillset. “George is great with people,” Tony said. “People come in to see him— he has a natural smile on his face at all times. I had the vision and concept and George has been able to implement it really well. It’s been a lot of fun to work together.”

The heart of Whiskey and the Wolf’s menu are their prime beef sandwiches.

They are big and messy enough that you may need to eat with a fork, but undeniably delicious. And although the number of menu offerings are not expansive, there have been no compromises on quality.

“All the details matter,” Tony said. “We want to set the stage when you come here that this will be different. We are looking for the right ingredients. My philosophy on restaurants is to always push quality over costs. I’ll sacrifice some margin to have a good product.”

FUN, FOOD & SPIRITS

HAPPY HOUR 3-7PM MON-FRI

SHOWS AND DANCING EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY

Whiskey and the Wolf also boasts a strong whiskey menu and craft beer selection. According to Tony, whiskey is a special type of spirit.

“I think people have a certain affection for whiskey,” Tony quips. “It’s appreciated like wine.

OPEN STAGE SUNDAY DEC. 10

NO SHAME SATURDAY DEC. 30

Craft Beer and Whiskey Focus

3515 W. Alexis Rd. 419-690-4280 | whiskeyandthewolf.com

www.toledocitypaper.com

CALL 419.508.3782

MALE REVUES SAT DEC. 16 & FRI DEC. 29

NEW YEAR’S EVE SHOW W/BALLOON DROP & COMPLIMENTARY CHAMPAGNE TOAST AT MIDNIGHT

OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK

MON-FRI 3pm-2:30am SAT-SUN Noon-2:30am

KITCHEN HOURS

SUN-THURS, UNTIL 11pm FRI-SAT UNTIL 1:30am

Happy Holidays from all of us! FOLLOW US 1205 ADAMS ST. TOLEDO, OHIO | 419.407.5433

December 1 • December 31

27

FILM NOTES

REEL APPEAL

It’s a Wonderful Life at Valentine Theatre

Watch the classic Christmas movie, It’s a Wonderful Life on the Valentine Theatre’s big screen. Sunday, Dec. 17 at 2 pm.

Tickets $5. 410 Adams St. valentinetheatre.com

JCRC Film Series

View the fifth and final installment of the 2023 Jewish Community Relations Council Film Series, Repairing the World: Stories from the Tree of Life, on Dec. 14 at 6 pm. Presented by the Jewish Federation and Foundation of Greater Toledo, tickets are free, but registration is recommended. To register contact Sherry Majewski at 419-724-0351 or sherry@jewishtoledo. org. Franciscan Center of Lourdes University, 6832 Convent Boulevard. jewishtoledo.org

Virginia Shine founded Glass City Screenwriters 8 years ago to connect with other writers in the area.

Toys for Kids 5311 Airport Hwy, Toledo | (419) 389-0560

Donate a homemade or purchased toy to bring happiness to less fortunate children this Christmas.

Drop off deadline: December 8th

woodcraft.com/stores/Toledo Donated toys benefit the Salvation Army and Lucas County Children’s Protective Services

Glass City Screenwriters Founder, Virginia Shine, harnesses the power of connection and creativity

By Jennifer Kellow Fiorini

FilmToledo, a non-profit group bring- adding, “We all want to create something ing outside film productions to the Toledo an audience is entertained or moved by. area, acts as an invaluable hub for local Our (2022) film, Old West End, continues filmmakers to meet, network and support to play at festivals. It has screened locally each other. Local filmmakers also rely on at The Valentine Theater, Maumee Thethe skills of screenwriters. ater and the Carriage House in the Old Glass City Screenwriters started 8 West End. It’s been wonderful to share the years ago with a mission to gather like- film with so many people, and open eyes to minded writers who want to learn and the beauty of the area.” connect. Writing can be a solitary practice, Shine works closely with Michael Demaking it tough for writers to connect with Santo, the founder of FilmToledo. Both each other and with others in the indus- DeSanto and Shine feel a strong connectry. As founder Virginia Shine points out, tion to the area and want to share what “(Screenwriters) work on stories some- Toledo has to offer in terms of both stories times for years, and until recently, not and locations. FilmToledo has been sucmany were talking about screenwriting in cessful in bringing local and outside proToledo, Ohio.” ductions to the area, showcasing Toledo’s Shine, a self-taught versatility with shooting screenwriter with a delocations and an awaregree in psychology and ness of opportunities that a passion for writing suthe City offers. pernatural horror and grounded science fiction, A New Project is a Toledo area native, After working on the who has written about film in Toledo’s Old West the area in The Legend End for a year and a half, of Holcomb Road and Old Shine became involved West End. in a project that she’s Shine credits the Toexceptionally passionate ledo Lucas County Public about: a biopic/documenLibrary with helping to tary about Joyce Perrin, — Virginia Shine grow the fledgling group. whose “Any Wednesday” Glass City Screenwriters hold regular gathering in the Old West End made her a meetings in reserved Library conference legend in the Toledo Arts scene. rooms, allowing those curious to experi“Sometimes a creative work becomes ence the group, explore their own writing part of you and the universe guides things and to connect with local film creators. to put you in the right place at the right Those regular meetings, along with more time,” Shine says. “Even though this is informal coffee shop meetups, place writ- the first I have written in this genre, I was ers in a social but focused environment chosen to write it because of (my) connecwhere they can benefit from advice and tion (to the neighborhood). Our team has the creative inspiration from interacting been working very hard on research and with other writers. timelines. We are excited to be moving forward to the interview phase of the project Local Screenwriters, soon.”

Sometimes a “creative work

becomes part of you and the universe guides things to put you in the right place at the right time

”

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Local Films

Over the past few years, Glass City Screenwriters has been involved in short films that have screened at festivals and won a few awards. “This started as fun and practice, but our passions push us to stretch further each time,” Shine explains,

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December 1 • December 31

Find out more about Glass City Screenwriters at https://glasscityscreenwriters.com.

Shine invites anyone who knew Joyce Perrin to share their stories for the documentary. Contact her at glasscityscreenwriters@gmail.com.

www.toledocitypaper.com

THEATER NOTES

CURTAIN CALL Being Mother Ginger

Stand-Up Comedian at Earnest Brew Works

The Biggest Little Part in The Nutcracker

By Jennifer Kellow-Fiorini

Photo provided via Facebook

This Christmas season, the Toledo Ballet continues its annual performance tradition of The Nutcracker. The company’s 83rd production makes it the longest running string of performances in North America.

The ballet, based on E.T.A. Hoffman’s story The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, was adapted by Alexandre Dumas (The Count of Monte Cristo), accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s score. The ballet was written just after Tchaikovsky completed Sleeping Beauty and, while both are fairy tales, The Nutcracker is filled with more fanciful characters, set at Christmas time.

costume. The role is also more amusing when a man plays it, and due to the costume being so large and cumbersome, a larger person is needed to maneuver it on stage.

Annually, the Toledo Ballet selects a community member to play the role, usually inviting a highly visible individual, well-known to Toledoans, for the role.

Recent past invitees have included Joe Napoli, Jerry Anderson, Steve Cavanaugh, Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz, and TV anchorwoman Chrys Peterson.

Asked about her community exposure for many years as a local news anchor as a factor leading to her invitation to play the part, Peterson laughs and humbly says, “Well, [I’m] not really famous, . . . I would say they [the Ballet] choose[s] someone notable from the community, who they think will really have fun with it but, of course, working in television [could have been] an added factor.” Peterson went on to describe prepping for the part without any formal rehearsals, saying, “You’re on this huge platform, up in the air about 12 feet, wearing the bodice of the gown, your head is in a bonnet and your arms are in these big sleeves.

The platform is supported by Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz playing Mother Ginger in scaffolding to [allow you to] roll the 2018 performance of The Nutcracker. you around and all the little chilEvery year, Toledo’s production of The dren come out from under the dress.”

Nutcracker features one local celebrity to play the iconic role of Mother Ginger, Meant to make you laugh connecting the community to the arts in a Peterson explains that the role is fun-loving way. meant to be funny and to make everyone laugh. “Your role is just being hilarious Mother Ginger in the Land of while you’re up there in the costume – 12 feet in the air – hamming it up as much as Sweets you can. You look around at all the people, The ballet tells the story of a little wave and powder your face with a gigangirl, Clara, who is gifted a nutcracker on tic powder puff. Once you’re out there for Christmas Eve. Dreaming of herself in a four minutes, it’s over, and you wish you land of mice led by the Mouse King with could do it again!” whom the Nutcracker must battle, Clara This year, Shaun E. Graham, Assistant attempts to save the Nutcracker, who General Counsel at Marathon Petroleum turns into a prince. The performance’s Company LP will perform Friday, Andrew second act places Clara and the prince in Newby, CEO and Co-Founder of The Tothe Land of Sweets, celebrating victory ledo Spirits Company and HEAVY Beer over the Mouse King, and introduces Company and Michael Ellison, Ph.D, Mother Ginger.

Associate Professor Emeritus from BowlHistorically, Mother Ginger was including Green State University will perform ed in the story as comic relief for some of on Saturday. Patrick E. Bowe, President the darker aspects of the ballet. Depicted & CEO of TheAndersons, will perform as a giant lady in a large, hooped skirt, on Sunday. For the character of Mother a la 1700’s Marie Antionette, everything Ginger, the emphasis is on fun and having about her is big and flamboyant, from her a well-known person from the community rosy cheeks and white-powdered face to on stage acts as a bridge between the her oversized bonnet, as her children run audience and the ballet itself, inviting out from beneath her skirt.. everyone to be involved. That is another reason that the Toledo Ballet’s annual Playing Mother Ginger performance of The Nutcracker has kept Throughout the years, performances audiences coming for decades. by the Toledo Ballet have often cast a man as Mother Ginger. At the time that The Nutcracker runs Saturday, Dec. 9 at 2 pm the ballet was written, the Russians and 7 pm, and Sunday, Dec. 10 at 2 pm at the were poking fun at the French, hence the Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. over-the-top French design of the original 419-246-8000. artstoledo.com

www.toledocitypaper.com

Stand up comic, Wesley Ward, will stir up some laughs at Earnest Brew Works Downtown. Wednesday, Dec. 13 at 7 pm.

Tickets $19 on Eventbrite. $30 at the door. 25 S. St. Clair St.

My Fair Lady at the Stranahan Theater

My Fair Lady tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to transform her into his idea of a “proper lady.” But who is really being transformed? Thursday, Dec. 14 through Sunday, Dec. 17. Showtimes and ticket prices vary.

Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. stranahantheater.com

A Christmas Carol at the Valentine Theatre The Toledo Repertoire Theater stages A Christmas Carol, again this year at the Valentine Theatre. Experience Christmas Past, Present and Future on Dec. 1 and Dec. 2 at 8 pm or Dec. 3 at 2:30 pm. Tickets $37.

ON THE COVER Toledo Ballet is thrilled to announce that this year’s production of The Nutcracker will feature esteemed Houston Ballet Principal Dancers Yuriko Kajiya and Connor Walsh in the iconic roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier.

Three public performances presented by Fifth Third Bank take place on Saturday, December 9 (2pm and 7pm) and Sunday, December 10 (2pm) and a student performance presented by Yark Automotive takes place on Friday, December 8 (10:30am).

Toledo Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is a long-standing holiday tradition that tells the magical story of a young girl named Clara, her Nutcracker Prince, and their adventures with toy soldiers, mice, dancing snowflakes, and a Sugar Plum Fairy in the dazzling Land of Sweets.

First performed 83 years ago, Toledo Ballet’s Nutcracker holds the record of the longest running annual production in North America. The late Marie Bollinger-Vogt, Founder and Artistic Director Emerita of Toledo Ballet, procured parts of Tchaikovsky’s score from Russia to stage her first production. Toledo Ballet continues to honor her memory to this day with every Nutcracker performance.

This production is the only one in Northwest Ohio and the vicinity performed with live music. TSO Music Director Alain Trudel conducts this years’ performances.

“I couldn’t be more excited to welcome these amazing dancers from Houston Ballet to Toledo Ballet,” TAPA President and CEO Zak Vassar said. “Having dancers of such high caliber join our production of The Nutcracker speaks to Eric’s commitment, leadership and connections in the ballet world.”

The Toledo Ballet and Toledo Symphony officially merged to form the Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts (TAPA), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing exceptional live music and dance performances and education for the region.

Stemming from an 81-year partnership and annual presentation of The Nutcracker in Toledo, this merger is one of only a few in the nation and promises to create new and invigorating programs, provide cost and revenue synergies in operations, and integrate the arts through shared educational missions.

Tickets to The Nutcracker are on sale now at artstoledo.com/nutcracker or by calling the TAPA Box Office at 419.246.8000.

December 1 • December 31

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BOOK NOTES

CITY PAGES

Books On Tap

Toledo Writer’s Workshop

In partnership with Toledo Lucas County Public Library, Quenched & Tempered Brewing Co. hosts ‘Books On Tap’.

Enjoy a craft beer while discussing Shelby Van Pelt’s Remarkably Bright Creatures on Wednesday, Dec. 20 at 7:30 pm. Quenched & Tempered Brewing, 1210 Jackson St. quenchedandtempered.com

Where Dreams become Reality

By Jennifer Ellison

Authors! with Mitch Albom

Mitch Albom is coming back to the Toledo Public Library to speak about his book the little liar, his first novel, set during the Holocaust. Following Albom’s talk, there will be a short Q&A session and book signing.

Tuesday, Dec. 12, 7 pm. Main Library, 325 Michigan St. Tickets, $22, on Eventbrite. mitchalbom.com

Waterville Evening Book Club

Discuss Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson at the Waterville Branch of the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library. Dec. 5, 6:30 pm. 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville. toledolibrary.org

The Toledo Writer’s Workshop offers a safe space for local writers to discuss their obstacles and to work through them.

Did you vote?

You have until Dec. 15th toledocitypaper.com

The Writer’s Block book fair, held in the Franklin Park Mall in October, featured Writer’s Club authors.

Writers often experience dilemmas including lack of inspiration, being inspired when not in a position to capture their ideas, writer’s block, lack of meaningful feedback and more. For many, those creative challenges can become daunting.

After the success of being published, the pressure can feel nearly insurmountable.

The stress alone can be enough to kill the creative drive.

The Toledo Writer’s Workshop assists local writers in working through those obstacles to achieve their creative goals.

A gaggle of great ideas

The Writer’s Workshop group, self-described eclectic writers who have banded together to fight the tyranny of self doubt, discouragement and writer’s block, shares ideas and mutual support, with constructive criticism by like-minded people.

The Workshop operates from the common belief that very few writers are capable of editing their own work, and that no writer truly works alone, requiring collaboration to write a book. There are no restrictions on the writing. The Workshop

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December 1 • December 31

accepts for review, welcoming fiction, nonfiction, memoirs and poetry.

Aspiring writers can have their work reviewed in a mature and respectful manner by people whose sole motivation is to help another writer. By having their work read by others, the anxiety of publishing is eased, allowing for a greater readiness to accept criticism to improve.

A Workshop In Detail

During a Workshop session, a chosen piece is distributed to attendees who read the copy, making any corrections before discussing their ideas and any technical or plot issues. The idea is to help encourage writers to grow and improve their story without defeating their sense of inspiration. Writers who don’t have material ready for reviewing are welcome to attend and share their support and knowledge.

The Writer’s Workshop meets Tuesdays at 7 pm at Biggby Coffee, 4031 N. McCord Road, Sylvania. Check out their Facebook page for information on upcoming workshops and events.

www.toledocitypaper.com

ART TO HEART IMAGES COURTESY OF JORDYN TINNEY.

Small Wonders Show

Enjoy works created by local artists at the The Artists Club’s Small Wonders Show at the Toledo Botanical Gardens. Dec. 1 to Jan. 24. 1 pm to 4 pm.

5403 Elmer Dr. metroparkstoledo.com

Peace of mind is just a phone call away

Annual Juried Exhibition

Sylvania and Sister City, Woodstock, ON have partnered to host an international juried show featuring artists from both cities. The exhibition can be viewed from 10 am to 4 pm through Dec. 20. Canticle Arts Center at Lourdes University. 5335 Silica Dr. Sylvaniaarts.org

Joel Fremion: Fabric of the Midwest

Jordyn Tinney, founder of Brick House Tattoo & Co., 1415 Bernath, had the idea for the Brick House Bus after a conversation with a client who had been stagehand recounted bands hiring professional tattoo artists to tour with them. As a musician and lover of live music, Tinney was intrigued by combining her passions of live music and tattooing, resulting in the Brick House Bus to provide opportunities for tattoo services at music festivals, weddings or any special event.

Toledo City Paper sat down with Tinney to learn more.

How did you become interested in tattooing? I’ve always been an artist, something I inherited from my mom. We would draw together a lot while I was growing up. The show Ink Master had a huge influence on me when I was a kid and planted the seed for my interest in tattoos. I went to college but left after a year because I knew it wasn’t for me.

Needing a backup plan, my best friend suggested that I give tattooing a go. I took a portfolio of my artwork into a shop; they liked my work and agreed to teach me tattooing, and the rest is history.

Why do you think the music and tattoo worlds are connected? Musicians do what they do to express their individuality through songs, especially the lyrics. Tattoos are also a way of expressing yourself, so (to me) music and tattoos go hand-in-hand with self-expression.

What goes into a mobile tattoo operation? Definitely a lot of work. Because I already own a tattoo shop, I know what standards need to be met. When performing a tattoo in a mobile studio, the same

www.toledocitypaper.com

The Brick House Bus, a mobile tattoo shop. standards and procedures are applied as they are in the shop. It’s a tattoo shop, just on wheels.

The bus is made for events, so I’m not really doing huge, custom pieces for people. Going into events, I will prepare a large amount of “flash designs” that fit the theme of that event for people to choose from. Small and quick 20-minute tattoos so we can get to as many people as possible. Huge, custom pieces should be saved for the brick and mortar shop.

How do you determine where to take the bus? I’ll go through lists of upcoming music festivals around the country to see which ones might be good to bring my bus. Festivals peak my interest if they have artists on the lineup that I like.

I’ve also been contacted directly by people to make an appearance at whatever event they have going on.

ART EVENTS FRI., Dec. 1

Heralding the Holidays

The yearly open house at the Artisan Village will offer original artwork, crafts and activities including a family photo-op Friday evening with Photo Arts Club and glass blowing with the Toledo Glass Guild. 4-8pm. Also on Saturday, Dec. 2, 10am-5pm and Sunday, Dec. 3, 11am4pm. Artisan Village at Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. toledoartistclub.com

SAT., Dec. 9 Grounds for Thought Holiday Boutique

Shop handcrafted gifts by your favorite local artists and contemporary crafters. 10am-4pm.

Grounds for Thought, 174 S. Main St., Bowling Green.

SAT., Dec. 16

Painting a Winter Wonderland

What’s in store for Brick House Bus for the future? I’m considering taking the bus to Las Vegas because I think it would do well there along with expanding to a bigger bus to house more tattoo artists, doing more festivals and getting more into the wedding industry.

If you could give a tattoo to any musical artist, who would it be and why? Post Malone (an American rapper). I love his personality and I feel like he would appreciate my style of tattooing. Who doesn’t like Post Malone? He’s a great artist!

This interview was edited for length and clarity. https://brickhousebus.com/

DS & N O

SURE

Mobile tattoos at special events

By Tanner Wertz

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Brick House Bus

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Indiana artist Joel Fremion’s intricate fabric collages are featured at 20 North Gallery through Dec. 23. Open to the public Wednesday - Saturday from 12 pm to 4 pm, or by appointment. 18 N St. Clair Street.

20northgallery.com

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Brick House Bus owner Jordyn Tinney works on a tattoo on the bus.

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Explore the enchanting world of art and create your very own winter masterpiece.

Join nationally recognized artist and teacher, Anne Kindl, BFA, PSA, IAPS/MC, and indulge in a leisurely afternoon at an art gallery accompanied by wine and snacks, singer Ella Cole, and holiday joy. All supplies are included. $85. 4-6pm. Fuller Art House, 5679 Main St., Sylvania. fullerarthouse.com

December 1 • December 31

316 N Michigan St # 434, Toledo, OH

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LISTEN HEAR Tim Oehlers Uploading Discography For about 50 years, Toledo native Tim Oehlers has been a guitarist and original composer focusing on emotional expression. Showcasing his talents on guitar, harmonica and vocals. Oehlers, a kind soul, is a talented musician in the local music scene. A beacon of positivity and advocacy for Toledo music, Oehlers isn’t showing any signs of slowing down.

Toledo City Paper sat down with Oehlers to catch up.

It’s been just over 5 years since your last interview with Toledo City Paper.

What have you been up to? I’ve been busy performing and creating new music.

The pandemic gave me, and other musicians, the opportunity to spend time with our ideas, to flush them out.

You’re in the process of getting your albums (dating back to 1997) onto streaming platforms. Why is now the right time for that?

I wanted to wait (for financial reasons) to make sure I regenerated the funds I invested into past projects. The cycle includes recording an album, pressing CDs, selling those CDs and then using those funds for the next album.

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When streaming first came out, I didn’t hop on it right away. As a business decision, I didn’t initially want to give “freeloads” away. I also kept my eyes on other artists (big and small) and how they navigated streaming and the issues they’ve had with it.

When going through each album, to get it online, makes me think about every person involved on each recording. The process brings up great memories and makes me wonder how everyone is doing with their lives now. When I perform, I pull from different eras of my catalog.

Can you tell us about your latest album? It’s called Necktivity; play-on words because of the neck on the guitar, but also it’s an instrumental electric guitar album. What I did artistically different with this album was to use the same guitar and album for the whole thing.

I used a Slingshot (made by Reverend Guitars) and a Loudbox Mini amp (made

by Fishman) on every song. I recorded it at Joe’s Track Shack, in Toledo, with Joe Koziarski, who also did the mixing and mastering. We spent about a year recording this album because we really wanted to take our time with it.

PHOTO BY DAVE LUDWIG.

Local guitarist uploads his catalog to streaming platforms

By Tanner Wertz

Toledo guitarist and composer, Tim Oehlers. “Necktivity”, the latest album by Tim Oehlers. Artwork by Dave Ludwig.

I purposely recorded this album a love letter to my Reverend Slingshot guitar. There’s no other guitar quite like it; the way it feels, sounds and the journey I’ve been on with it, along with the people connected to it.

Talk about Toledo’s music scene in 2023? There are a lot of opportunities for working musicians, more than ever. In my 50 years of doing this, I’ve watched the number of venues continue to grow.

December 1 • December 31

What are your plans for 2024? A goal I have is to make vinyl copies of my new album. It would be nice to have at least one album of mine on vinyl. I still have a catalog of unrecorded songs to work through, so I’d love to get back into the studio.

This interview was edited for length and clarity.

Tim Oehlers plays at locations like Te’kela, The Casual Pint, Benfield Wines and more. Check out Time Oehlers on Facebook to see his upcoming performances each week. linktr.ee/timoehlersguitar

www.toledocitypaper.com

METRO MUSIC WEEKLY MON. Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Whiskey Monday featuring Jake Pilewski (acoustic) Ciao!: Chris Brown & Candace Coleman (soft rock, jazz) TUES. Ciao!: Chris Brown & Candace Coleman (soft rock, jazz) Fuzzy’s Taco Shop - Father’N Son (acoustic) WED. The Real Seafood Company: Area pianist/vocalists Wheelin’ on the Rocks: Open Jam with Black Ice Jam Band Maumee Bay Brewing Co.: Organic Ingredients (jazz) Georgjz: Karaoke Peacock Cafe: Karaoke THURS. The Real Seafood Company: Area pianist/vocalists The Chop House: Jazz piano Wheelin’ on the Rocks: Karaoke SUN Kickstand Saloon: Open Jam with Dave Fleeson and Steve Taylor Sodbuster Bar: Father’nSon Jam Village Idiot: Open Mic

FRI, DEC 1 Grand Rapids Town Hall: Jason Ramm (acoustic) Huntington Center: Trans-Siberian Orchestra (orchestra) Village Idiot: House Band (rock) Bier Stube: The 25s (rock) Lucille’s Jazz Lounge: Blues Man Bobby G (blues) Black Kite Coffeehouse: Jo Serrapere & the Lafawndas (americana) Papa’s Tavern: Strawberry Kush (classic rock) Bar 145: 56 Daze (rock) Hollywood Casino: North of Nashville (country) Majestic Oak Winery: Eric “Tater” Edwards (acoustic)

SAT, DEC 2 Manor House at Wildwood: Birds of a Feather (vocal duo) Majestic Oak Winery: Mike Szafarowicz (acoustic) Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: CurtainEight (acoustic) Pioneer Inn Bar & Grill: Open Mic with Mad Mic and Jake McCoy Uncle Mounty (open mic) Whiskey River Tavern: Christopher James (acoustic) Bar 145: Random Act (rock) Lucille’s Jazz Lounge: Olivia Van Goor (jazz) Frankie’s Inner City: Smells Like Nirvana (rock) Toledo Museum of Art: Christmas at the Peristyle (orchestra) Bier Stube: The Castawayz (rock) Hollywood Casino: Separate Ways: Journey Tribute (classic rock) Benfield Wines: Dave Carpenter (acoustic) Sneaky Pete’s Saloon: Married With Children (rock) Village Idiot: Echo Record (indie rock)

THUR, DEC 1 Rosaria’s on Third Street: Hector Mendoza (guitar) Majestic Oak Winery: Bruce Brodie (acoustic)

MON, DEC4 MON, Dec. 4 Village Idiot : Frank May (acoustic)

TUE, DEC 5 Levi & Lilac’s Listening Lounge: Holiday Variety Show

www.toledocitypaper.com

Highlighted events indicates our picks for the week

WED, DEC 6

SAT, DEC 16

THUR, DEC 28

Epworth United Methodist Church: Carols: Chancel Choir & the Academy Brass Quintet (choral)

The Switchboard: Immaginatron (rock) Majestic Oak Winery: Joe & Shuey (acoustic) Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Muddy (acoustic) Pioneer Inn: Jake McCoy Jam (acoustic) Lucille’s Jazz Lounge: Shawn Holt & the Teardrops (blues) Valentine Theatre: Michael Cavanaugh: A Merry Rockin’ Christmas (rock) Bier Stube: Paddock (rock) Toledo Museum of Art: A Swingin’ Christmas (jazz) The Distillery: Not Fast Enüff (rock) Speedways Bar & Grill: Dealing with Dragons (rock) The Village Idiot: the Skittle Bots (pop/rock) Hollywood Casino: Madison Avenue (pop/rock) Bar 145: My 80s Vice (pop/rock)

Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Tim Oehlers (acoustic) Peacock Cafe: Jason Quick (jazz) Quenched & Tempered Brewing Co. - Muddy (acoustic)

THUR, DEC 7 THUR, Dec. 7 Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Hector Mendoza (guitar) Papa’s Tavern: Open Jam Peacock Cafe: Lori Lefevre (jazz) Kickstand Saloon: Jeffrey Oliver (acoustic) Bar 145: DJ Issa Lynch (electronic) Quenched & Tempered Brewing Co.: Ryan Dunlap (acoustic)

FRI, DEC 8 Grand Rapids Town Hall: Mark Poseler (acoustic) Manor House at Wildwood: Birds of a Feather (vocal duo) Majestic Oak Winery: Mojoe Boes (blues) Benfield Wines: Abbigale (blues) Bier Stube: The Cheeks (rock) Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Ross Thompson (acoustic) Christ the Word Church: Sounds of Triumph Christmas Concert (choral) Lucille’s Jazz Lounge: Mississippi Heat (blues) Kickstand Saloon: Hybrid (rock) Bar 145: The Delaneys (rock)

Read more online at toledocitypaper.com

SAT, DEC 9 Hollywood Casino: Blue Morning: Foreigner Tribue (classic rock) Majestic Oak Winery: Renegade Lemonade Duo (acoustic) Benfield Wines: Gypsy Lovin’ (acoustic) Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Cindy Slee (acoustic) Christ the Word Church: Sounds of Triumph Christmas Concert (choral) Lucille’s Jazz Lounge: Jean Holden (jazz) Bier Stube: Noisy Neighbors (rock) Manhattan’s Pub & Cheer: Christian Lombardo (acoustic) Bar 145: Redfeather (country)

SUN, DEC 10 The Chalet at Oak Shade Grove: The Teutonia Chor presents A Very Merry Christmas (choral) Rosaria’s on Third Street: Jake Pilewski (acoustic)

WED, DEC 13 Frankie’s Inner City: Kendra Morris (soul) Stranahan Theater: Mannheim Steamroller (orchestra)

THUR, DEC 14 Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Mark Elder (acoustic) Peacock Cafe: Scott Kretzer (jazz) Quenched & Tempered Brewing Co.: Open Mic Tony Packo’s: The Cakewalkin’ Jass Band (jazz)

FRI, DEC 15 Grand Rapids Town Hall: Jason Ramm (acoustic) Majestic Oak Winery: Engine 19 (rock) Bier Stube: Distant Cousinz (pop/rock) Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Cara Taylor (acoustic) Village Idiot: House Band (rock) Bar 145: Renegade Lemonade (pop/rock) Kickstand Saloon: Middle Age Arcade (rock) Lucille’s Jazz Lounge: Ellie Martin (jazz) Hollywood Casino: The Bradberries (rock) Leroy & Margarets: Baja Frog (rock)

FRI, DEC 29 The Village Idiot: Day Drinkers (rock) Majestic Oak Winery: Shane Piasecki (acoustic) Bier Stube: Madison Avenue (pop/rock) Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Frank May (acoustic) Barr’s Public House: Chick Flick (acoustic) The Village Idiot: Funk Factory (pop/rock) Bar 145: Willits Records (alternative rock) Hollywood Casino: Marquis66 (rock)

Rosaria’s on Third Street: The Aaron-Peter String Duo (strings) Majestic Oak Winery: Ramona & Trez (vocal) Earnest Brew Works: whateverandeveramen. (choral)

Toledo songstress, Jean Holden is an esteemed voice teacher and vocalist whose phrasing, sultry tone and clear vocals define her talents. Holden performs Friday, Dec. 8. 7:15 pm. Tickets $22 on Eventbrite. Ramona Collins, singer, songwriter, actress, educator, emcee and radio personality, hosts a Holiday Jazz concert. Saturday, Dec. 23. 7:15 pm. Tickets on Eventbrite. Lucille’s Jazz Lounge, 1447 N Summit St. Tickets $22 on Eventbrite.

Lucillesjazzlounge.com

SAT, DEC 30 Majestic Oak Winery: Ben DeLong (acoustic) Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Dave Rybs (acoustic) Pioneer Inn: Jake McCoy Jam (rock) Lucille’s Jazz Lounge: Chris Canas (blues) Bier Stube: Mizer Vossen Project (rock) Bar 145: North of Nashville (country) Hollywood Casino: Renegade Lemonade (pop/rock)

SUN, DEC 31 SUN, DEC 17

Two Toledo divas play Lucille’s

SUN, Dec. 31 Prime Nightlife: Boogie Matrix Mechanism (rock) Hollywood Casino: the Skittle Bots (pop/rock) Bar 145: DJ Adubb (electronic)

MON, DEC 18 Earnest Brew Works: whateverandeveramen. (choral) Village Idiot: Frank May (acoustic)

THUR, DEC 21 Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Jon B. Roth (acoustic) Peacock Cafe: Hepcat Revival (jazz) The Summit: Candlelight: Holiday Special featuring “The Nutcracker” and More (classical) Bar 145: DJ Issa Lynch (electronic)

Renegade Lemonade at Bar 145

Renegade Lemonade prides themselves on playing the songs you love, with a twist. Catch your favorite songs from this local band on Friday, Dec. 15. 8 pm. Bar 145, 5305 Monroe St. 419-593-0073. info@bar145toledo.com

Karaoke at the Peacock Cafe The holiday season is the perfect time to head to the Peacock Cafe to sing some of your favorite tunes. Head to karaoke Tuesdays and Wednesdays in December at 8 pm. 2007 Monroe St. 419-241-8004. Peacock Cafe on Facebook.

Did you vote?

You have until Dec. 15th toledocitypaper.com

FRI, DEC 22 Grand Rapids Town Hall: Asa Danekind (acoustic) Majestic Oak Winery: Scott & Melissa (acoustic) Bier Stube: G-String Jettison (rock) The Village Idiot: The 25s (alternative rock) Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Brent Lowry (acoustic) Triple Crowne: Acoustic Hoopla (acoustic) Sneaky Pete’s Saloon: Whiskey Gypsy (rock) Hollywood Casino: Trailer Park Ninjas (rock) Bar 145: Distant Cousinz (pop/rock)

SAT, DEC 23 Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Shawn Sanders (acoustic) Lucille’s Jazz Lounge: Holiday Jazz with Ramona Collins (jazz) Bier Stube: Random Act (rock) Walbridge Tap Room: Acoustic Hoopla (acoustic) The Village Idiot: Baccano (rock) Bar 145: Mad Dog Adams (rock) Hollywood Casino: Arctic Clam (pop/rock)

December 1 • December 31

33

THE BIG TO DO FRIDAY, Dec. 1

SATURDAY, Dec. 2

[psychic arts, markets & shopping]

[author events]

Come together and experience a high-frequency uplifting event at the Rock Your World Psychic & Holistic Market. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. Admission $7. Conn-Weissenberger Legion Hall, 2020 W. Alexis Rd.

[street fairs, holidays]

Red Bird First Friday: Miracle on Main Street Explore downtown Sylvania with seasonal vendors, carolers, tree lighting, a parade and Santa Claus! Begins Friday, Dec. 1 at 5pm.

Continues Saturday, December 2. Red Bird Sylvania, Main St., Sylvania. redbirdsylvania.org

[film, social causes]

World AIDS Day Film: Sr. Eileen and her Boyz, An HIV in the Rust Belt Story - This screening will be hosted by UToledo’s Department of Theater and Film in partnership with the Ann Wayson Locher Memorial Fund for HIV Care.

7:30pm. UT Center for Performing Arts, 1910 W. Rocket Dr. Free

[performing arts]

Naughty and Nice: 18+ Adult Circus Cabaret Showcase - Enjoy a variety of aerial arts and acrobatics as Bird’s Eye View Circus students and staff show off their skills for an 18+ crowd!

Tickets are available on Eventbrite. $10. 8:45pm.

Also on Saturday, Dec. 2 at 8:45pm. Collingwood Arts Center, 2413 Collingwood Blvd.

HarperCollins Takeover of Main Library International publishing house, HarperCollins, along with a half dozen of their talented authors will be at Main Library. 10am-2:30pm. Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St. toledolibrary.org

[Christmas, history]

Christmas Tree Ship 2023 - The Christmas Tree Ship is the inspiration for the National Museum of the Great Lakes’ annual Community Giveback Event. Throughout the day, visitors to the museum will receive FREE admission to the museum thanks to the generosity of The University of Toledo Medical Center. 1-4pm.

National Museum of the Great Lakes, 1701 Front St. nmgl.org

[markets & shopping]

Holiday Night Market - Celebrate the holiday season with a unique shopping experience. Two levels filled with local artisans, one-of-a-kind gift ideas, food, drinks, music and a whole lot of holiday cheer! Admission $5. 4-10pm. Fifth Third Building, One Seagate. toledonightmarket.com

SUNDAY, Dec. 3 [markets & shopping]

Finders Keepers - 150 vendors selling everything from antiques to home decor, also with food trucks and live music. $5 cash admission.

10am-4pm. Glass City Center, 401 Jefferson Ave. finderskeepersvintagemarket.com

[floristry & lessons ]

Holiday Wreath Making Workshop The Toledo Zoo horticulture staff will provide all the materials and guidance needed to create a beautiful evergreen wreath. No experience is necessary. The price of this program includes admission to the Toledo Zoo and complimentary parking in the Anthony Wayne parking lot. $70 members, $75 nonmembers. The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org

MONDAY, Dec. 4 [health & wellness]

Herbs of Peace - Many people find the holidays and winter stressful. Fortunately, the plant world offers a wide variety of helpful allies. Learn how herbs can support our health & wellbeing. $22.

5:30-7pm. The 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. 577foundation.org

[yoga]

Wednesday Yoga at Boochy Mama’s Integration Yoga with Jenn will lead a mid-week practice with traditional yoga poses, mindful breathing, and deep relaxation. Wednesday evenings through Dec. 20. $14. 5:30-6:15pm.

Boochy Mama’s, 23 N. Huron St, Warehouse B. boochymama.com

THURSDAY, Dec. 7 [hanukah]

Chanukah at the Mall - Franklin Park Mall welcomes The Chabad House of Toledo for the 36th Annual Chanukah at the Mall celebration including a Menorah lighting and music. Guests will enjoy special Chanukah-themed treats, latkes and coffee. 3:45-5pm. Franklin Park Mall, 5001 Monroe St. visitfranklinparkmall.com

[climbing]

Holiday Tree Climb - The Toledo Botanical Garden climbing tree will be lit up with lights and holiday decorations and climbers will use headlamps as they climb. Metroparks staff will also provide a fire to keep warm when not climbing. $35. 7:30-9:30pm. Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. metroparkstoledo.com

DICKENS DINNER

SATURDAY, Dec. 9 [markets & shopping]

In Collaboration with

The Toledo Rep’s A Christmas Carol

Market & Merry: A Pop-Up Holiday Shopping Event - Stock up on Bittersweet art, cookies, and produce, all while enjoying festive activities at Bittersweet Farms beautiful 80-acre farmstead. 9am-3pm. Market at Bittersweet Gardens, 12660 Archbold-Whitehouse Rd., Whitehouse. bittersweerfarms.org

December 1st • 6 PM

A Sumptuous Dickensian feast at the Toledo Club followed by he Holiday Clssic, A CHRISTMAS CAROL, at the Historic Valentine Theater.

For reservations

419.243.2200 235 14th St. • Toledo

34

Saturday, Dec. 9th from 1 pm to 8 pm.

Come dressed in your best Santa outfit, ugly sweater, reindeer costume or even as a Christmas tree to get into the spirit of the holiday season with friends. Select bars, restaurants and venues will all provide you with fun spots to enjoy the event. Must be 21 and over to attend. Locations and tickets available on Eventbrite. Saturday, Dec. 9.

1 pm to 8 pm. Downtown Toledo.

WED., Dec. 6

FRIDAY, Dec. 8

The Toledo Club

Toledo SantaCon 2023

Community Chanukah Celebration Sunday, Dec 18th at 3:45 Celebrate the Chanukah holiday at Franklin Park Mall with a giant menorah lighting, a juggling show, Lego dreidels for everyone, latkes, donuts, music and more. The event begins at 3:45 pm Sunday, Dec 18. 5001 Monroe St. 419-473-3317. chabadtoledo.com/chanukah

[donation drives]

The Holiday Express: Christmas Donation Drive The Lean on Me Foundation will be collecting donations for YWCA of Northwest Ohio and Bethany House. Noon-4pm. Frederick Douglass Community Association, 1001 Indiana Ave. tlomf.org

[networking]

Merry Mixer @ TolHouse - Open to all, but especially for individuals in the creative, marketing and media community, the Merry Mixer is designed to make new connections and ignite your creative spirit at the vibrant TolHouse social club. Ticketed. Purchase tickets on Eventbrite. $20. 6-10pm. TolHouse, 1447 N. Summit St.

SUNDAY, Dec. 10 [wine, markets & shopping]

Holiday Sip & Shop - Shop for local artisan crafts & some of your favorite home party vendors while you sip a glass of wine. Food by Lulu Fare.

Noon-3pm. Majestic Oak Winery, 13554 Mohler Rd., Grand Rapids. majesticoakwinery.com

[markets & shopping]

Tipsy Elves Market and Music - Hosted by What the Flux Studio Tipsy Elves Market and Music will have local handmade vendors, live music, food trucks and more. Proceeds benefit veterans organization Purple Heart Homes. $2 admission.

Noon-6pm. Maumee Elks, 139 W. Wayne St., Maumee. @WTFstainedglassstudio

Dinner only $50 Dinner + Shuttle $60 Dinner, Show + Shuttle $85

Read more online at toledocitypaper.com

December 1 • December 31

www.toledocitypaper.com

SUNDAY, Dec. 17 [running]

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

The 49th Noel Night An open house of the Midtown Detroit and Cultural Center districts celebrates diverse holiday traditions amidst state-of-the-art arts and cultural institutions, historic churches, galleries, and a growing group of small businesses.

This free event offers an evening filled with performances and other holiday experiences with family and friends. Saturday, Dec. 2. 5pm.

Warren Avenue, Detroit, MI. noelnight.org

Frankenmuth ChristKindlMarkt This traditional Christmas market, modeled after those held in Frankenmuth’s sister region of Germany, brings a touch of magic to the city each year. It’s full of artisans selling handmade gifts and goods. ChristKindlMarkt runs the weekends of Dec. 1-3 and Dec. 8-10.

534 N. Main St., Frankenmuth, MI. frankenmuth.org

TUESDAY, Dec. 12 [civic benefit, environmental causes]

Food Waste Composting Kick-Off Compost your food waste at one of the new free food waste drop-off sites located throughout the city. Residents of Toledo are invited to stop by at any time during this 2-hour event to learn what can and cannot be placed in the bins. 2-4pm.

Swan Creek Metropark, 4301 Airport Hwy. metroparkstoledo.com

THURSDAY, Dec.14 [tea, talks & lectures]

Tea & Talk Series: Fashion After Dark - The monthly tea & talk begins with a catered luncheon, warm tea, and a unique presentation. Please make your reservations by Friday before each tea. $25$30. 2-4pm. Wood County Museum, 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green. woodcountyhistory.org

FRIDAY, Dec. 15 [psychic arts, wine]

An Evening with Medium Sirena La Point - This event has limited seating so that Sirena may make as many connections as possible but remember a message is not guaranteed! One drink ticket with purchase. $40. 6-9pm. Benfield Wines, 102 N. Main St., Swanton. benfieldwines.com

www.toledocitypaper.com

Run Santa Run - Join hundreds of runners and walkers to fill Levis Commons with Santas and elves. Runners are encouraged to dress festively. $30-$35. 9-10:30am. The Town Center at Levis Commons, 4130 Levis Commons Blvd. runsignup.com

[floristry]

Evergreen Arrangement Workshop A beautiful evergreen arrangement is the perfect way to celebrate this month of merriment. Toledo Zoo’s horticulture staff will provide all the materials and guidance necessary to create these seasonal showstoppers. No experience is necessary. $60 members, $65 nonmembers. Noon-3pm. The Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way. toledozoo.org

[choral, craft beer]

Carols & Ales presented by whateverandeveramen. - Join whateverandeveramen. for an evening of Christmas carols, traditional drinking songs and all the holiday spirit you can handle, as we ring in the season. $20. 6-9pm. Also on Monday, Dec. 19, 6:30-9:30pm. Earnest Brew Works Downtown, 25 S. St. Clair St. whateverchoir.org

MONDAY, Dec. 18 [wine, holidays]

Wine & Wrapping - Gather with friends & family to wrap some gifts and drink some wine (or festive cocktails). Your ticket includes access to a buildyour-own mini charcuterie and cheese tray buffet.

Beverages will be available for purchase. All the trimmings will be supplied. Ticketed event. $48.50.

5:30-9pm. Cork & Knife Provisions, 224 S. Erie St. corkandknifeprovisions.com

THURSDAY, Dec. 21 [Hanukah]

TOLEDO ACCORDING TO...

Sandy Spang Years lived in Toledo: Born and raised Occupation: President, Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments (TMACOG) My short story: I spent 17 years working in the jewelry industry. Many years later, I was on Toledo City Council for six years and following that was in administration for the City of Toledo, working in economic development, specifically with small businesses.

Glass City Metropark is the place in Toledo I’m most proud of.

The best meal I had in Toledo was the Coquilles Saint-Jacques at Hotel Sofitel during my wedding. Or, my recent meal at Registry Bistro.

TUESDAY, Dec. 26 [nature & wildlife]

Metroparks 101 Series: A Story of Ecoregions and Conservation - This beginner’s conference series will include short, interpretive presentations will offer ways of considering the ecological connections between our 19 Metroparks and leave you with a deeper perspective on how each works to promote and protect conservation of the whole.

5:30-6:30pm. Wildwood Metropark, 5100 W. Central Ave. Free



When I’m craving Mexican food, I go to El Tipico.

If I knew I could get away with it, I would spend the night at the Toledo Museum of Art.

Candlelight: Holiday Special featuring “The Nutcracker” and More - Enjoy music inspired by the winter and holiday spirit at The Summit under the gentle glow of candlelight. $32. Two performances, 6:30-8:30pm and 8:45-10:45pm.

The Summit, 23 N. Summit St. feverup.com

Something to Brunch About Sundaze Delicious food and drinks, games, good music and good times. Ticketed. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. $25-$440. Noon-4pm. Aria Banquet Hall, 5969 Telegraph Rd.

The Toledo business you’ll most likely find me at is SAME Cafe and BlueBird Hair Studio.

My favorite piece of local architecture is The Toledo Main Library, which is a style of architecture called Art Deco.

[holidays, classical music]

[brunch]

When I’m away from Toledo, I can’t wait to have a cup of coffee brewed fresh in Toledo when I get back.

Mud Hens Opening Day is my favorite annual event.

Downtown Menorah Lighting - Join Chabad House in lighting the menorah. Latkes, donuts, music and more. 4:30pm. One Government Center. chabadtoledo.com

SUNDAY, Dec. 24

Sandy Spang is a former councilperson and current president of TMACOG.

If Toledo had a new motto, it would be “Things are happening in a lot of places, but you can make things happen in Toledo.”

I shop for local jewelry at Toledo Museum of Art Gift Store or Crosby Garden.

I’m at my most calm in Toledo when I’m at the University of Toledo Recreation Center’s swimming pool.

The street I drive on/walk on most often is Broadway.

One thing I’ve always meant to do in Toledo, but haven’t, is The Ottawa Park Concert Series.

The best view in Toledo is The Northeast Corner of Government Center or my office at TMACOG.

The most underrated thing in Toledo is our waterfront.

To find inspiration, I go to my own backyard.

I always brag about Toledo’s Museum, glass and its history and future here.

Josina Lott is the Toledoan I most admire.

My coolest Toledo memory is meeting Tom Hanks while he shot a movie here.

LISTEN TO OUR FULL INTERVIEW IN OUR TOLEDO ACCORDING TO PODCAST 

December 1 • December 31

35

SOCIAL STUDIES

photos by Christine Senak

The Arts Commission’s Holiday Trunk Show It was the second year for this Holiday Trunk Show to benefit the Arts Commission.

A gathering of fabulous local artists made for a delightful two days of shopping at The Historic Libbey House. Find out more about The Arts Commission, here theartscommission.org And The Historic Libbey House, herelibbeyhouse.org.

Julie Beckert, Tess Healy and Emily Finkel.

Artists Jake Jones, Ryan Thompson and Mike Stevens.

Artists Ken Miller & Kacey McCreery.

36

December 1 • December 31

www.toledocitypaper.com

THE STARS SPEAK by Janet Amid

CROSS WORD

SAGITTARIUS - (Nov 23-Dec 21) - The year ahead Sag, is your time, getting yourself back on track where health and responsibilities are concerned. Jupiter, your ruler, transiting your area of health focuses on better eating habits, starting a new health regime, weight loss or weight gain. In addition, many of you will experience out of the blue changes in self-perception, and personal goals with Mercury in retrograde of your own sign. Some of these may have been paths that went nowhere, others may have led you to where you are today, helping you to get in touch with the more spiritual side of your nature.

Aries - (March 21-April 20) - Most Aries are blessed with tremendous good fortune; they are charming, capricious as well as decadent and didactic. They are motivated, and strive only for the best! Last year you would have experienced your personal shortcomings and had to come to terms with the truth about yourself, either bad or good. The year ahead, 2024, is all about making it right, turning the tables, becoming more astute with finances and feeling more settled in life. Jupiter, moving direct at the end of the month, says “it’s time to stabilize.”

Though on the flip side, Mercury retrograde brings to light a need to reexamine your inner psyche. Paying better attention to instincts.

THAT TRACKS

By Brendan Emmett Quigley

Across 1. Rapper with a Pulitzer 6. Carrier with a Star of David in its logo 10. “Growltiger’s Last Stand” musical 14. Unified 15. Computer language?

16. Beasts of burden 17. “That ___!” (The Wonders) 19. Bone broken in a nightstick fracture 20. See 31-Across 21. Bring about, as havoc 22. With 34-Across, “That ___” (Shania Twain) 27. South American raccoon-like creature 28. Still kicking 29. Sheds, as feathers 30. Too stupid for words 31. With 20-Across, anago at a sushi restaurant 34. See 22-Across 35. “___ That” (Akon & Eminem) 36. “___ Girl” (Stevie Wonder) 37. Proverbial knuckle-dragger 38. Pronounce 39. Spot covered with locks 40. Seriously overcharge 41. Really, really wants 42. “That ___” (Lin-Manuel Miranda & Phillipa Soo) 46. Aluminum foil maker 47. Towser’s title in “Catch-22”: Abbr.

48. Rap battler’s gift 49. “___ That” (BLACKPINK) 56. Tuning fork part 57. Physiologist Pavlov 58. With the pedal to the metal 59. Blue Gmail button 60. Venture capitalist Andreessen 61. Piano key

Down 1. Compound row exercise muscle 2. Fireplace residue 3. French 101 pronoun 4. “Cosmos” co-founder Druyan 5. College officials 6. Bacteria in some water 7. “The Simpsons” cop 8. Put two and two together 9. Sign of summer 10. Soup or salad, e.g.

11. Shafts on a bike 12. Late start, say 13. Declogging tool 18. Cooler with a cryptozoological name 21. “___ already met” 22. Sweetly, in scores 23. Swear words 24. Large swimming herbivore 25. Where are you?

26. Coyotes milieu 27. Power outage?

29. Sport played in an octagon, for short 30. Spin doctor’s job 31. Romance author Nalini 32. Relievers’ stats 33. The whole shebang 35. Leftover Cuban 36. Posse 38. Movie beverage 39. Fashionista’s field 40. Shone 41. Mountain range for NordVPN, e.g.

42. Floats through the air 43. Skateboarding trick with Fakie, Switch and Half-Cab variants 44. Storrs campus 45. “Better Place” boy band 49. “That guy” 50. Fertility clinic stock 51. Fighting chance?

52. Fertility clinic room 53. 10/12/23 for Instacart: Abbr.

54. Family 55. Frozen food name

THE ANSWERS YOU SEEK ARE AT TOLEDOCITYPAPER.COM www.toledocitypaper.com

Taurus - (April 21- May 21) - Venus, your ruling planet, in your area of partners, has been giving you some steering directions for awhile, moving into Scorpio December 5, may continue to do so. However with Jupiter moving direct in your own sign on December 31, in opposition, the focus is on the cementing of a contract, relationship or a business partnership, taking a bit of extra work. Exhausting to say the least, so try to build up momentum while continuing to stay on course. Also, part of your love language is finances, so allow this period to work with you. Common sense is key, with Mercury retrograding your money house. Cautious, if not very careful.

Gemini - (May 22-June 21) - Jupiter, retrograde, moving direct at the end of the month, in that sacred hidden part of your chart, highlights your keen intuition, your base of knowledge, your circle of friends and your inner thoughts. This particular transit can lead to greater psychic ability and/or confusion, as well as a plethora of ideas and imagination. In addition, Mercury retrograde in your house of partners, can be a force to reckon with.

With that said, knowledge is key, so think before reacting to petty annoyances.

Cancer - (June 22-July 23) - Jupiter’s continued movement in sync with your own sign offers a platform of opportunity. During which you will experience great flashes of knowing, greater insight, and understanding, as instinctual matters suddenly click in. Also, Mercury in retrograde, along with transiting Mars in your area of health cautions overdoing it. Excess is not always best. Nonetheless, this holiday month opens the way to luck & gain. It’s yours for the asking. Move with it.

And be well aware that you really are in control.

Leo - (July 24-Aug 23) - As Jupiter the planet of luck, in retrograde continues to transit your mid-heaven, changes in the workplace should occur, or may have already taken place. So with that said, not only has your sense of identity shifted but your work/job situation may have fluctuated. Either way, it’s clearly about you taking a step forward. Your career has been part of your identity, and for the next year or so you will most likely feel a need to reinvent yourself. Therefore, it is essential to put your ambition and career aspirations into perspective, as well as getting yourself spiritually attuned. Finding your passion is the next step. Along with that, Mars and Mercury retrograding in sync to your own sign, can even things out, though nonetheless, be aware of mixed messages.

Virgo - (Aug 24-Sept 23) - The vast majority of Virgo’s have gone through a period where they had to relinquish the past in lieu of personal growth, and often this means the loss of old friends who perhaps no longer fit, or even family members who have created too much hurt to hold on to. This year, 2023, has been a period of renewed spiritual understanding, deeper insight, humanity and yourself. Now, as Jupiter continues its transit, into your area of higher awareness, you may also “feel” a strong need to venture out of your comfort zone. Possibly through travel, or just stepping out of your

December 1 • December 31

inner sanctuary. This is clearly a period of awakening.

It’s yours for the asking. Challenges on the home front are definitely a trigger, so be aware of words as well as actions with Mercury retrograding your inner sanctuary.

Libra - (Sept 24-Oct 23) - The theme this month is about your financial well being, as well as working through the minor details of life. It’s also about taking the time to get yourself more situated. This can be a lucky cycle, or merely a time to get things back on track. Either way, it can be beneficial if done correctly. In addition to all of this, friendships may flourish, spirituality reenters your life. Cosmic guidance allows you to become more attuned.

The upcoming year, it’s all about taking on a different role as greater things begin to happen. Mercury in your area of chat can be a trigger for compulsion. Be alert as well as capable.

Scorpio - (Oct 24-Nov 22) - With Jupiter moving direct in your 7th house of marriage and partnerships, you may find yourself back on a steady path. During this cycle, positive occurrences happen, such as an engagement, a long awaited contract or a much desired business partnership that finally comes to fruition.

As with anything else,paying attention to details is key as Mercury retrogrades. Best to be self-aware and manifest the positive side of this aspect. Time to rethink your own actions. It’s about taking a personal inventory, and allowing yourself to make the necessary changes needed Capricorn - (Dec 22-Jan 20) - The good side of the current aspects have been about personal awareness, a stronger connection forged between the mind and the soul, a heightened intuition, though questioning your insight as well. In addition to all of this, with Jupiter in your 5th house, matters of the heart are indicated as you see yourself more open and receptive, yet still a bit wary.

A good strong year for you to focus on your own goals and needs. Learning to let go and let live. The year ahead, 2024 should play out as an interesting, fruitful year.

Aquarius - (Jan 21-Feb 19) - Jupiter, continuing in your area of home, provides an open door for remodeling, selling or purchasing. Time to step it up a bit. Also, changes within your inner foundation can be beneficial as well as you free yourself from emotional ties that have left you deep-rooted in your past. Your stress with work as well as friendships may be ever-present, but this year you may find yourself less encumbered. A good year ahead to take charge, reinforce your sense of self. Also March through July 2024, very rewarding.

Pisces - ( Feb 20- March 20) - Jupiter moving direct is beneficial in that it holds opportunities, opening up the senses as well. The last few years were not easy, as focus was placed on money and sacrifice, however this upcoming year will allow you to gain new skills while also becoming hopefully debt free if not,very lucky. Also, this time will provide a powerful deeper-rooted sense of your spirituality and a pathway to following your bliss. An advantageous cycle for love to bloom, as well as career opportunities. Implementation is possible after Jan 2024.

Janet Amid can be heard Monday mornings from 8:10-8:20 am on 93.5 FM. Every second Wednesday on 96.7 CLASSIC HITS and every other Wednesday morning from 7:30-8:30 am. 419-8825510 or JanetAmid@aol.com.

37

GET HEALTHY

CLASSIFIEDS

Mercy Health partners with RIP Medical Debt

Mercy Health and RIP Medical Debt reached a new agreement to alleviate $7.22 million worth of medical debt for almost 5,000 area residents with financial obligations related to health care costs. RIP, a national nonprofit that uses donated funds to purchase medical debts belonging to financially burdened individuals, has acquired — and abolished — more than $10 billion of medical debt, helping over 7 million families and addressing a major social determinant of health. Visit mercy.com or email Daniel.Lempert@ripmedicaldebt.org.

BuchuVida Tea Party

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Surrogate Mothers NEEDED!

Earn up to $50-60K in Expenses & Fees REQUIREMENTS: Age 21-43 Healthy Pregnancy History Nonsmoker BMI Under 34

Each month, BuchuVida hosts an afternoon filled with exquisite flavors and heartwarming conversations. Engage in conversations with tea experts, expand your tea knowledge and discover the art of brewing and pairing. Food and tea provided. $20 donation suggested. RSVP required. Sunday, Dec. 17. 1 pm. 24124 Front St, Grand Rapids. 419-830-3055. buchuvida.com

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

People First of Toledo Advocacy Group

People First of Toledo, affiliated with Courageous Community Services and People First of Ohio, invite you to this self-led disability advocacy group. Engage with your community, learn self-advocacy skills and meet others similarly situated. Meetings (monthly) are $5 (or $50 for 12 months) and open to anyone. The Ability Center, 5605 Monroe St. Email Quinn Thomas with questions at quinnt@ccsohio.org. abilitycenter.org

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This program was made possible by Grant Number 1H79TI085753-01 from SAMHSA. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the author and do not represent the official views of SAMHSA. Funding was made possible through a collaboration with the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services and the Ohio Commission on Minority Health.

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December 1 • December 31

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This project is supported by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $2.52 million with 100 percent funded by CMS/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CMS/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

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NYE AT HOLLYWOOD CASINO TOLEDO SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31

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GRETCHEN A. ZYND O R F SENSORY - F R I E N D LY F A M I LY S E R I E S The Lightning Thief, Doktor Kaboom! and the Wheel of Science & The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales

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Season

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Felicia Collins, Guitarist and Vocalist

December 1 • December 31

Featuring Special Guest Vocalist Motown Legend Thelma Houston

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