Digital Media Manager: Baile Rinaldi (digitalmedia@adamsstreetpublishing.com)
MY HUSBAND WON’TLET ME IN THE KITCHEN I AM MORE OF A BAKER
Social Media Manager:
Margot Jacobs (margot@adamsstreetpublishing.com)
CORIANDER COCONUT NOODLE SOUP
Administration
Accounting: Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledocitypaper.com) JIGGS DINNER
Distribution: Karena Adams (distribution@toledocitypaper.com)
CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP
Advertising/General
MARKETPLACE CHANGES UPDATES IN LOCAL BUSINESS
Andrew Z’s Pizza, Pasta and Subs is opening in the former Leaf and Seed Cafe downtown. The new pizza restaurant will serve pizzas, salads, pasta and subs. 116 10th St.
Buffalo Rock Brewing Company has opened a second location. The new brewery, an expansion from their Waterville location, is located in Oregon in an old firehouse, serving up delicious brews. 5002 Seaman Road, Oregon.
CuriosiTea Emporium, a new tea room, is among a slew of businesses that are coming to Ostrich Towne. CuriosiTea Emporium on Facebook
Cycle Werks has opened a new location in Sylvania. The new store will have an expanded selection of bikes and fitness equipment. 816 South Main St, Sylvania. Cycle Werks on Facebook
Happy Houseplant Co. celebrated their grand reopening in November. The plant shop offers unique and affordable houseplants, along with events and classes. Happy Houseplant Co. on Facebook
Melt Crepe and Gelato, a new dessert restaurant, is opening in Toledo with coffees and teas, crepes, gelato and more. 4405 Talmadge Road. meltcrepes.com
River Side Nightclub is opening in downtown Toledo, brought to Toledo by CV Lounge. 26 Main St. River Side Nightclub on Facebook
Sanctuary Tattoo is coming soon to Maumee. The shop is an expansion of their Bowling Green location. 1508 S. Reynolds Road, Maumee. Sanctuary Tattoo Maumee on Facebook
Stone Cut Bistro, a new restaurant from the Hajjar brothers, has opened in West Toledo in the old Plat8 location, 4330 Central Ave.
Sweet Nate’s Cafe, a new food truck, is serving up coffees, cappuccinos, lattes and more. sweetnatescoffee.com
Taqueria El Gallo de Oro is expanding to add a second location. 3944 Secor Road. elgallodeorooh.com
Toledo Library Whitehouse Branch is in the works as a collaboration with Metroparks Toledo, combining nature and literature.
editor@adamsstreetpublishing.com
The Salvation Army offers winter assistance
The Salvation Army is offering resources to help relieve families in need, including Adopt-a-Family program, Children’s Tree (also known as Angel Tree, Toy Shop or Toy Town), Thanksgiving and Christmas hot meals and food baskets, holiday parties and coats and winter gear for youth and adults. These programs will ensure better holiday celebrations during this time of giving. For more information visit easternusa.salvationarmy.org
Metroparks Toledo Urban
Campground
The Metroparks will open an Urban Campground in 2026 at the Glass City Metropark. Recreational Vehicle hookups, tent and cabin sites and a pavilion are planned for the space. A grant, provided by the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund, will fund an access road to the campground as well as campsites and cleanup. More details at toledocitypaper.com.
The
Arts Commission’s Art
in Public Places Program
Public art displays are undergoing repair and restoration efforts to bring Toledo an ‘art refresh.’ Three city sculptures will be involved in the effort. The Kabuki Dancer, in Levis Square, will receive touch ups to its damaged aluminum portions and repainting in the spring of 2025. The Vessel, in the Cherry St corridor roundabout, will undergo repairs and refabrications. And Cork Marcheschi’s Art Tatum Celebration Column, in the courtyard next to the Huntington Center, will be refinished, to be reinstalled in the spring of 2025. theartscommission.org
CITY POLITICS
Death, taxes, and Opal Covey
The curious General Election
By Johnny Hildo
That was fun.
The late General Election has come and gone and local results are certified. And certifiable.
Our takeaway? T-burg, and our froggy county, confirm that certain things are inevitable.
Death, because, duh.
Taxes, which we don’t mind if we can see a proper return on our public investment.
And Opal Covey, who wins votes even when she’s not on the ballot.
Hit, me baby, one more time
First to the tax levies and bond issues on the ballot.
All the major ballot issues passed.
The largest was a combo tax levy and bond issue for Toledo Public Schools to the tune of over two hundred ducats per annum per hundred Gs of assessed value. It’s new operations money for the schools and almost a hundo mil for facilities.
The latter includes money for the ambitious plan to renovate the old Scott Park campus into an intergenerational education panacea, with a school, day-care center and senior housing. The former is the first new money the schools have seen in years. Voters also approved new facilities money for the libraries. Some of the money is targeted for an innovative new library in partnership with the Metroparks.
Levies supporting services for seniors and children passed easily. Ditto a renewal levy for the Port Authority.
All told, it will cost most local property owners hundreds of dollars per year in taxes. And what do we get in return?
Better schools, a unique new educational campus, a groundbreaking new library, economic development, and ongoing support for the young and old. Sounds like a deal.
Write-in mania
Then there’s the omnipresent Opal. Opal might be the perfect mascot for City Politics. Quirky, sure. Sometimes just plain weird, of course. But she has an indescribable charm, too. She should never be let anywhere near the levers of power. But she had some attractive ideas.
Who doesn’t want a pot of gold? And a riverfront amusement park?
Boy, sign us up!
Opal wasn’t on the ballot this past November. But that didn’t stop six brave souls from writing her in for Toledo City Council At-Large. Protest votes, or serious fans?
We’ll never know.
Also receiving write-in votes for Council were Brittany Jones, Mac Driscoll, and Tom Names, even though all three actually appeared on the official ballot.
Lots of well-known names who weren’t on the ballot also got votes. Current members of Council received write-in votes, including John Hobbs, current District One rep, and Carrie Hartman and Cerssandra McPherson, who are already serving as At-Large members. The latter was misspelled Cassandra McPherson, but whatevs.
Other current elected officials and candidates for other offices receiving write-in votes include Toledo School Board members Sheena Barnes and Randall Parker, State Rep candidate Erika White, Commissioners Anita Lopez and Peter Gerken, Judge Linda Knepp, judicial candidate Amy Stoner, and State Rep Elgin Rogers.
Former Council members Steve Steel and Sandy Spang got votes. Neither have run for office in several years.
Local radio personalities Scott Sands and Fred Lefebvre got votes.. So did disgraced former Council members Gary Johnson and Yvonne Harper. Several former failed Council candidates got votes, including Sean Nestor, Alfonso Narváez Glen Cook, Scott Ramsey, and Harvey Savage. Ditto Tony “Killer” Dia.
The Director of the Board of Elections LaVera Scott got a vote. So did former GOP chair Jon Stainbrook, who made the Board of Elections so dysfunctional he was removed by the Secretary of State.
Someone voted for Jim Jones. We’re not sure if that’s the Guyana kool-aid guy, but he’s been dead for decades. Someone else voted for John Doe. A third wrote in Donald Trump. who as a resident of Florida was not eligible for election.
All in all dozens and dozens of ordinary folks got votes. All of whom had no chance of actually getting elected.
You know who else got two votes? And had no chance of election? And got less votes than Opal?
You guessed it. Carty.
Who, like Opal, is a caricature of City Politics.
ISSUE 9 TOLEDO NOV 2024 CHARTER AMENDMENT
40,677 NO VOTES
Toledo, YOU STEPPED UP, and you SPOKE OUT (40,677) and you said NO. That’s a big deal. They fear you. I would like to say, Thank You, I Love You, and I will NEVER FORGET YOU (40,677). You’re the BEST, and that’s a lot of LOVE, and I feel it, and I hear you, and I see you, and it means a lot to ME...Thank you again. I love you (40,677) more than you will ever know. YOUR VOTE DOES MATTER. You the people have the power. You’re in charge, and never forget that. Always stand up, no matter what, never back down. Thank You (40,677). You did your job; you voted. Thank you.
“KEEP HOPE ALIVE”
PAID
FOR BY:
HAROLD HARRIS
COOK LIKE A PRO. COOK LIKE A PRO.
You’re not so different.
Artfully prepared dishes of sustenance arrive at our tables and seldom do we consider the craftsmen behind the magic. Let’s meet a few of those artistic, magical rebels in the kitchens of your favorite local restaurants.
Damian Clarke
Executive Chef
Food you hated as a kid: I have always disliked peanut butter.
Type of music you listen to when you cook: RWB and Metal... Pantera is my favorite band.
Number of tattoos: I have a total of 17 tattoos.
One word that describes how you feel about food… Torn, when you turn your passion into your career that can create some challenges
If the world went vegan today, what are you making for dinner? I think I would probably starve!
Long night ahead with a packed house… coffee or energy drinks?
I think Redbull is a part of my uniform.
What is your gangster move in the kitchen? A 3 foot flip with an omelet!
Shrink flation sucks, one tip for readers to stretch a dollar Take advantage of our Monday – Thursday daily specials.
Type of music you listen to when you cook – favorite band: I listen to Blues when I am cooking, My favorite band is Stevie Ray Vaughn.
If you went on a food tour around the world, top 3 countries you’re definitely stopping in I would be sure to stop in: Morocco, Italy and India.
One word that describes how you feel about food… Love.
How many dishes on the menu are inspired by your childhood: There are 3 dishes inspired by my childhood, you can tell that there are items with a Moroccan flair and that comes directly from my childhood and being raised in Morroco.
Long night ahead with a packed house…coffee or energy drinks? Coffee all day.
(Facts, he had a cup in his hand when we arrived to take his photo!)
What’s your gangster kitchen move? When we are really busy and I have 10 sautee pans working at the same time plus the grill.
Something I’ll never make as good as my mom: I don’t think I will ever be as good as my mom’s cooking it’s one of the things I enjoy about my visits back home to Morroco.
Photos by Kent Searle Photography Design: Leah Foley
Victor Vermeulen
Rosaria’s
ROSARIA’S ON 3RD
135 W 3rd St, Perrysburg, OH 43551
567-898-2121
rosariason3rd.com
Food item you hated as a kid: Belgian endives.
If you went on a food tour of the world, top three countries you’re stopping in? Vietnam, Thailand, Lebanon.
If the world went vegan today, what are you making for dinner? Sautéed mushrooms on toast, with a bit of shallot and lemon. Breakfast, lunch and dinner!
Shrinkflation sucks, one tip for readers to stretch a dollar Learn to break down a chicken!
Very cost effective, and one chicken can be transformed into a plethora of different meals. Wings, thighs, breasts; soup, chicken salad, curry, you name it.
If I weren’t a chef, I would have been ... Dead in a ditch.
Rosie’s
Rosie’s and Rosarias
ROSIE’S ITALIAN GRILLE
606 N. McCord Road
419-866-5007
rosiesitaliangrille.com
If you went on a food tour around the world, top 3 countries you’re definitely stopping in: Italy, Lebanon and Serbia.
One word that describes how you feel about food: Comfort or love.
Long night ahead packed with a full house, coffee or energy drinks... Energy drinks.
If I weren’t a chef I would have been: If I were not a chef I would have gone back to my roots and enlisted in the United States military.
Something I’ll never make as good as my mother? An attitude.
If I went on a food tour around the world, top 3 countries I would definitely stop in: Italy, Spain, Greece.
One word that describes how I feel about food: Flavorful.
Long night ahead with a packed house, coffee or energy drinks? Energy drinks.
What’s my gangster move in the kitchen? Proactive, fix issues/problems before they become issues/problems.
Something I’ll never make as good as my mom? Coffee Cake.
The Sidelines Restaurant Group can be your one stop HOLIDAY GIFT SHOP!
Each of our *Gift Cards can be used at any of our brands!
PLUS - with each minimum gift card purchase of $60 or more, receive a BONUS CARD, worth at least $30!
Stop in to any of our locations to purchase yours today!
*Gift Cards cannot be used for any of our catering services.
Type of music you listen to when you cookFavorite band: Rock- Billy Idol.
Number of tattoos: Six.
If you went on a food tour around the world’s top 3 countries you’re definitely stopping in: Italy, Spain and Norway.
One word that describes how you feel about food Love.
Long night in the kitchen… Coffee or energy drinks? Energy drink.
What’s your gangster move in the kitchen? Sweet spins.
If I weren’t a chef I would have been: A geologist.
Something I’ll never make as good as my mom: Thanksgiving dinner.
Food item you hated as a kid Lima beans.
Type of music you listen to when you cook - Favorite band Blues or classic rock –Led Zeppelin.
One word that describes how you feel about food… Happiness.
If the world went vegan todayWhat are you making for dinner? Our Vegan Fauxlafel Burger
Long night in the kitchen… Coffee or energy drinks? Both.
If I weren’t a chef I would have been: A fireman or carpenter.
Something I’ll never make as good as my mom: Ravioli.
Type
Number of tattoos: 2 and counting.
If you went on a food tour around the world, top 3 countries you’re definitely stopping in: Cuba, Greece and Lebanon.
One word that describes how you feel about food... Thankful.
How many dishes on your menu right now are inspired by your childhood? None.
If the world went vegan today, what are you making for dinner? Steak and Roasted Potatoes, y’all can have the salad.
THANK
WELL,
“Couldn’t be worse than Mother’s Day.”
Food item you hated as a kid: Avocados and liver. I like avocados now, but I don’t like liver.
If you went on a food tour around the world’s top 3 countries you’re definitely stopping in: Japan, Peru and Mexico (south)
If the world went vegan todayWhat are you making for dinner? Mushroom tacos with roasted poblano salsa.
Long night in the kitchen… Coffee or energy drinks? Coffee, not a fan of energy drinks.
What’s your gangster move in the kitchen? Play with knives like a juggler
27072 Carronade Dr. Perrysburg 419-872-0200 cocinadecarlos.com
Shrink-flation sucks: One tip for readers to stretch a dollar? Never throw away leftovers. Use scrambled egg with leftovers wrapped in a tortilla for the perfect breakfast burrito.
Something I’ll never make as good as my mom: Nothing, she has delicious seasoning. In fact, many recipes on our menus are from my parents.
16 Tattoos!
Casey SadowskiMANCY’S ITALIAN GRILL
5453 MONROE ST. 419-882-9229 MANCYSITALIAN.COM
Food item you hated as a kid: Canned tuna fish. I cannot stand the smell even to this day. My parents used to put it in my stocking at Christmas when I was bad.
Type of music you listen to when you cook - Favorite band My favorite band is black sabbath.
If you went on a food tour around the world, top 3 countries you’re definitely stopping in...
I would love to travel to Greece, Paris, and India on the sole purpose of expanding my palate.
How many dishes on your menu right now are inspired by your childhood? Currently on our menu is a carrot cake from the very recipe from my childhood. Warm carrot cake resting on top of caramel sauce and topped with cream cheese frosting and pecans.
If the world went vegan today - What are you making for dinner? Jackfruit pulled pork sandwiches with a vinegar-based BBQ sauce.
(Sounds amazing!)
Long night ahead with a packed house…Coffee or energy drinks? Energy drinks all the way. If it’s really busy I’ll get someone to shotgun a red bull with me.
Shrink-flation sucks: One tip for readers to stretch a dollar? Don’t set standards for where you buy! Stop by that local vendor. Make a pitstop at the roadside stand, talk to your local farmers/ butchers. Develop a relationship with the little guy. and a bad ass burger!
Food item you hated as a kid Green Beans.
Type of music you listen to when you cook - Favorite band Classic Rock AC/DC.
If you went on a food tour around the world, top 3 countries you’re definitely stopping in. Spain, Italy and Greece.
One word that describes how you feel about food… Fantastic.
What’s your gangster move in the kitchen? Being able to control fire. LOL.
If we asked your staff, what would they say your famous line or mantra is? Today is a good day to cook.
If I weren’t a chef I would have been: Trucker.
Something I’ll never make as good as my mom Fried cornbread.
“All art looks like sh*t until it’s finished. Keep going.”
RING IN THE NEW YEAR
Log onto the calendar for more NY fun! toledocitypaper.com
Hollywood Casino
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with Hollywood Casino, featuring the Skittlebots performing at 9pm. New Year’s Eve sweepstakes can be played all day, from 12pm to 11pm. One winner every 30 minutes. 1968 Miami St. hollywoodcasinotoledo.com
New Year’s Eve Gala
This is one of the most affordable New Year’s Eve parties around—get more bang for your buck! Tickets are available on Eventbrite. $40 a ticket. 8pm. Scott Park Banquet Room, 2541 Nebraska Ave.
Roaring into 2025
New Year’s Eve at Brandywine
Celebrate the New Year with Live Music by Venyx, casino games, dining and dancing! $85-$95 a ticket. Doors at 6pm. Brandywine Country Club 6904 Salisbury Rd., Maumee brandywinecc.com
Party at Fairways
Something to Talk About will rock the night away from 9pm to 12:30am. Enjoy champagne and party favors at midnight. 8256 W. Central Ave. fairwayssylvania.com
Maumee Bay Brewing Company
Sneaky Pete’s NYE Party
NYE at
The Village Idiot
Bobby May and Dale Beagle will perform at 6pm for those who prefer a quieter evening. Echo Record takes the stage at 10pm. The Village Idiot 309 Conant St., Maumee villageidiotmaumee.com
Join The Grape Smugglers for a night of live music, dancing, and fun! Your ticket includes grazing-style food, two drink tickets (cash bar available), and a midnight champagne toast! Tickets are available on Eventbrite. $55 a ticket. 7pm. Maumee Bay Brewing Co., 201 Morris St. mbaybrew.com
Out of Town Events
Venue’s New Year’s Eve Dinner
Enjoy a special 3-course menu by Chef Thad, bubbly, and live entertainment as we ring in 2025 with style. The highlight? A 10 PM champagne toast (Brazil Time) with DJ and dancing from 8–11 PM—perfect for celebrating and still getting a full night’s sleep! $90 a ticket. 6-11pm. Venue, 1919 S. Industrial Hwy., Ann Arbor, MI. exploretock.com/venue-annarbor
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31ST
NECTO New Year’s Eve 2025
Ring in 2025 at Ann Arbor’s biggest New Year’s Eve party! Celebrate with a midnight ball drop countdown, featuring jaw-dropping production elements like cryo effects, stunning SFX, confetti cannons, and an epic NYE countdown. Don’t miss Necto’s unforgettable New Year’s Eve 2025! Ticketed. $25-$120. 8pm. Necto Nightclub, 516 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor, MI. necto.com
Wish List Holiday 2024
By Riley Runnells
Get caught up on your holiday shopping with these thoughtful suggestions from
gift guide. Food, beauty services, top-notch hospitality or thoughtful one-of-a-kind creations: discover favorite gifts at these local businesses.
Making the Season Bright
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.
Though the holidays are great for spending at home, you can gift your loved ones a luxurious getaway at Belamere Suites, with detailed rooms with private heated swimming pools, warm fireplaces, whirlpool tubs for two, double showers and 24-hour concierge service. The stay can be romantic or a delightful place for you and friends. Give your loved ones the gift of luxury with a stay at Belamere Suites.
419-842-8525
saltsofthe7seas.com
Salts of the 7 Seas is an online shop for exotic salts from around the world, including Europe, the Himalayas, Peru, South Africa, South Korea, Iceland and the Kalahari Desert. This holiday season, check out the salt and/or pepper tin samplers. The window on top of each tin shows you the textures and colors of salts you’re receiving, and each sample has a description on the website. Ranging from $32.95 to $35.95, these embossed tins include varieties of salts, peppers or a combination of the two for you to spice up any dish. They make great hostess gifts!
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 walk-ins and will draw your tattoo design on the spot for you. For your holiday tattoo and piercing gifts, visit Needle Masters.
Schmucker’s Restaurant
2103 N. Reynolds Road 419-535-9116
schmuckersrestaurant.com
Most people have a sweet tooth, but some are fated with a mouthful. For Toledoans who never turn down dessert, Schmucker’s Restaurant has served as an oasis since opening in 1948. In addition to more than 20 varieties of homemade pies— ranging from traditional fruit pies to decadent options, like Chocolate Peanut Butter— this family-owned and operated diner has proved themselves as a Toledo tradition. Find homestyle dinners just like Schmucker’s grandma used to make, like roast beef and swiss steak, or select diner classics from the variety of burgers and sandwiches.
The Mancy name is 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.
Continued on P. 21
Presented by Black & White Transportation
HO HO HO! WHERE YOU
VISITS WITH SANTA | Through Dec. 24
Celebrate holiday traditions and share your wishes with Santa at Franklin Park Mall. Complete your visit with a photo memory and special treats from Franklin Perk Cafe.
SOOTHING SANTA | Sundays, Dec. 8 & 15
Sensory-friendly Santa visits. *Registration required*
PET PHOTOS WITH SANTA | Monday, Dec. 9
A purr-fect photo opportunity for your fur babies
MEET THE WINTER SISTERS | Saturday, Dec. 11
It’s winter fun with Elsa and Ana, courtesy of Laurel’s Characters & Co.
KIDS CLUB SANTA PAJAMA PARTY | Wednesday, Dec. 18
Presented by Toledo Area Parent with Educare Academy and National Heritage Academies
Cozy up for cookies and cocoa from Franklin Perk Cafe, crafts and story time with Santa
SCAN
On the COVER
TOLEDO BALLET PRESENTS
Toledo Ballet Welcomes Professional Dancer Liza Van Heerden
Born in Cape Town, South African, professional dancer Liza Van Heerden began her ballet training at Cape Junior Ballet School and went on to study at the Kirov Academy of Ballet in Washing ton, D.C. There, she received Russian training under teachers from the Vaganova Academy, Bolshoi, and Perm schools. She graduated from Butler University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Dance: Arts Administration and a minor in English with high honors in the Spring of 2023. She has performed in a range of classical ballet reper toire including Giselle, The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, Le Corsaire, and La Bayadere. She has had experience teaching classical ballet classes in Cape Town as well as during her time at Kirov. At Toledo Ballet, Liza teaches pre-primary classes through level 2.5.
Give the Gift of French Language & Culture
Registration begins January 6 - 10
Beginners through Advanced Classes begin Monday, Jan. 13
1700 N Reynolds Rd. , Suite 102 Toledo,OH. 43615 419-537-9024 | aftoledo.org
MEMBER: FEDERATION OF ALLIANCES FRANÇAISES USA
She will star as Sugar Plum Fairy in Toledo Bal let's 84th production of The Nutcracker along side Gustavo Ramirez as Cavalier. In April of 2025, Liza will also dance the lead role of Snow White with Toledo Ballet.
Eric Otto, Artistic Director Saturday, December 14 at 2pm and 7pm Sunday, December 15 at 2pm
Tickets start at $25 and are available at artstoledo.com Presented by Fifth Third Bank and Cenovus.
CHOW LINE POPPERS
A Taste Of Italy
Join at the Main Library branch on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 2 pm to 3:30 pm for Cultural Cooking for the Holidays: A Taste Of Italy with Chef Francesco Del Noce. Attendees will sample Italian dishes and ask the chef questions while learning about Italian cuisine. Recipes will also be given to attendees to recreate at home. events. toledolibrary.org
Better Health Market Expands
Better Health Market, 3344 Secor Road, has expanded its health and wellness store, adding an additional 2,500 square feet. The now 8,000 square-foot store offers Toledo’s largest organic and locally grown produce options. The new addition is multifaceted, with space for dining, community events, workshops or gatherings. betterhealthmarket.com
Wine Tastings at Black Kite
Every 2nd Thursday of the month, Black Kite Coffee hosts a wine tasting. Enjoy tasting delicious wines ranging in both complexity and price. Tastings are $5 for 5 samples. Snacks are also provided. blackkitecoffee.com
El Arena
Taco Shop
Step into the ring with great flavors and hospitality
El Arena Taco Shop is a Mexican wrestling fan’s paradise. Located in an unassuming building on Douglas Road, guests enter into a vibrant, bright, and colorful celebration of luchadores (professional wrestlers) and their Mexican heritage. Every piece of furniture in the restaurant is covered in painted portraits of luchadores, either as solo portraits or in the midst of grappling with opponents. The walls are covered with authentic luchador masks and memorabilia. It is truly a uniquely spirited spot, unlike any other locally.
To begin our meal, our party ordered the classic chips and salsa, guacamole, and chorizo queso. The guacamole was creamy and fresh, and the queso was the perfect combination of cheese and spicy chorizo. These, along with warm chips, combined to make a fantastic dip sampler that was a great start to our meal, being careful not to spoil our appetites, which could be dangerously easy.
When in a “taco shop” . . .
If a restaurant is going to call itself a “taco shop”, it seems that would be the menu item to try. So we ordered the “taco smorgasbord” — consisting of a carnitas taco, an al pastor taco, a carne asada taco, and the signature quesabirria tacos. The carnitas, al pastor, and carne asada were all served street taco style (with cilantro, onion and lime), and were bursting with flavor. Each had its own spice blend, making each taco a different experience. El Arena prides itself on the quesabirria tacos. Three corn tortillas stuffed with birria dipped beef, queso Chihuahua, chopped onions, and cilantro, served with a traditional Mexican birria style beef broth. Truly, these were among the best tacos I have ever
eaten in my life. Incredible on their own, when dipped in the broth they somehow became even better, culminating in a flavor experience that I’ve been craving ever since.
For dessert, we were pointed in the direction of the fried ice cream, and it certainly did not disappoint. Some “fried ice cream” desserts are just a scoop of ice cream in a fried tortilla shell, but this one was truly impressive. Chocolate chip ice cream that was, indeed, fried, with a chewy outer crust, covered in chocolate sauce and caramel and served in the fried tortilla shell. We absolutely devoured the dessert and loved every last bite.
The drink menu is simple but the offerings are made with good quality ingredients, featuring a variety of styles and flavors of margaritas, beers — both imported and domestic — and a few other classic cocktails. We opted for margaritas, one classic lime and the other raspberry. Both were nicely balanced, between the fruit juices and the tequila, and fresh. I’ve had my fair share of artificially flavored margaritas that slap you in the face with tequila (and sometimes that’s what the moment calls for), but these margaritas were different and blended the flavors very well; the perfect addition to the meal.
El Arena Taco Shop is one of Toledo’s most unique dining environments. It is one thing to have a theme for a restaurant. It is another thing entirely to commit to that theme from decor to table to booth to bar. El Arena does it with authenticity and joy, and it is fun to witness as a diner. This is definitely a must-see venue that delivers both with showmanship as well as culinary prowess, where this reviewer highly recommends that you stop in when in the mood for a flavor knockout!
Lighting: Well-lit
Parking: Plenty
Kid-Friendly: Yes
Noise: Medium
Price: Low-Medium ($5-$25)
THUR, Dec. 5 and 19.
SUN, Dec. 8 and 22
CULINARY CALENDAR Weekly
Flatbread & Charcuterie
Savor charcuterie boards and live music at Majestic Oak Winery. Unwind to the sounds of talented local musicians for a relaxing time with great flavors and ambiance. Thursday Dec. 5 and 19 , 2-8pm. Also on Sunday Dec. 8 and 22, 1-5pm. Majestic Oak Winery, 13554 Mohler Rd., Grand Rapids. majesticoakwinery.com
WED, Dec. 4
Manhattan’s Wine Tasting
Enjoy select wines with small plate pairings. Wine tasting is by reservation only—call 419-243-6675 to secure your spot. $60. 6:30-8pm. Manhattan’s Pub ‘n Cheer, 1516 Adams St., Toledo
THUR, Dec. 5
Holiday Beer & Wine Tasting
Join personal chef Jennifer Schuerman for a holiday beer and wine tasting with creative dishes. With a theme of holiday drinks and complementary foods, this event is perfect for both novices and experts—and you won’t leave hungry! Ticketed. $38. 6:30-8pm. Schedel Arboretum & Gardens, 19255 W Portage River S Rd., Elmore
FRI, Dec. 6
Irish Pub Night
Join Quenched & Tempered Brewing Co. for the re-release of “Sir Milligan” dry Irish stout, with live music by the Jolly Gabbers (7-9pm), beer poking (weather permitting) and festivities with the Toledo Irish Club. 6-10pm. Quenched & Tempered Brewing Co., 1210 Jackson St. quenchedandtempered.com
SAT, Dec. 7
St. George Orthodox Cathedral
Annual Cookie Walk
Annual Cookie Walk featuring homemade treats and Middle Eastern pastries. Cash or check only. St. George Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral, 3754 Woodley Rd., 419-475-7054.
Cork & Knife Holiday Market
Join Cork & Knife Provisions for an Open House. Enjoy takeaway breakfast, drinks, fantastic vendors and a selection of C&K pantry, food, and decor items. Build your own gift basket! 9am-2pm. Cork & Knife Provisions, 224 S Erie St. corkandknifeprovisions.com
SUN, Dec. 8
Craft & Brunch:
Christmas Tree Making Event
Includes all materials to make a Christmas Tree with Stick It Babe and one glass of wine. You may also order from the brunch menu at an additional cost. Ticketed. $25. 11am. Urban Pine Winery, 3415 Briarfield Blvd., Maumee. urbanpinewinery. vinesos.com
Stones and Spirits!
Join Bellwether at Toledo Spirits for a festive event creating Christmas tree ornaments with highquality gemstones. Your ticket includes a distillery tour, three spirit tastings, and a welcome cocktail. Tickets $60. 11am-2pm. Bellwether at Toledo Spirits, 1301 N. Summit St. toledospirits.com
SAT, Dec. 14
Hallmark Holiday Brunch
Join Cork & Knife Provisions for a Hallmarkthemed brunch. Ticketed. $55. Cork & Knife Provisions, 224 S Erie St. corkandknifeprovisions.com
Weekday Lunch Menu Monday - Thursday |11am - 4pm
Winesday
HALF OFF all bottles of wine every Wednesday from 4pm- 9pm
NOTES FILM
Trail Fire Documentary at Toledo Firefighters Museum
The Trail Fire Documentary, documenting the 1961 tanker explosion on the Anthony Wayne Trail, and produced in conjunction with the Toledo Firefighters Museum, was released in June of 2024. The Sylvania Branch Library brings viewers the opportunity to screen the documentary with a Q&A to follow on Dec. 4 at 7 pm. Ages 18 and up. Meeting Room A&B. events.toledolibrary.org
World AIDS Day Film Screening
Hosted by the University of Toledo, take in the film Sr. Eileen and Her Boyz: An HIV in the Rust Belt Story on Dec. 1, at 7:30 pm at UT’s Center of Performing Arts. The film focuses on the HIV/AIDS ministry conducted during the early years of the AIDS pandemic. A panel discussion will follow the screening. Admission is free. utoledo.edu
CURTAIN CALL
The Village Players present a holiday classic
By Leslie Anne Shore
The Village Players will bring a beloved holiday classic to the stage this December.
It’s a Wonderful Life, A Live Radio Play will take The Village Players stage Dec. 13 through Dec. 15.
The play is an adaptation of Frank Capra’s 1945 classic holiday film. Joe Landry, the writer of the play, revamped the story as a live radio broadcast.
This beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940’s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage. The story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve.
A classic with a twist
The play tells the classic story of It’s A Wonderful Life with a twist. In this adaptation, 1940’s movie and radio actors tell the story of It’s A Wonderful Life during a live radio broadcast.
Actors will play both 1940s characters as well as take on radio roles as It’s A Wonderful Life characters.
“The actors play 1940s movie and radio personalities that have come together on Christmas Eve to tell the story of It’s A Wonderful Life in this radio studio in front of a live audience,” Dave Nelms, director, said. “So it’s kind of like you see their radio personalities and then you see all their characters that they play within It’s a Wonderful Life in the style that you would see if you were in a radio studio in 1945 watching people perform a radio play.”
Nelms has been involved in Toledo’s theater scene for around 45 years. By day he is a light designer. He is on the Village Board of Directors as well as the Actors Collaborative Toledo Board of Directors. This will be Nelms 8th time being involved with this particular show.
“It’s just a unique show, because it’s a kind of a play within a play,” Nelms said.
Not only is the show itself unique, but the set, sound and costume design brings a distinctive feel to the show.
NOTES THEATER
Toledo Repertoire Theatre’s A Christmas Carol
Based on the Charles Dickens novella, this production runs Dec. 5 through Dec. 15 for a Christmas adventure with Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit and three spirits — Christmas Past, Present and Future. Come enjoy the story of spirit and redemption at The Toledo Rep, 16 Tenth St. For tickets or the theater’s full season schedule, go to toledorep.org.
“They’re all in 40s period clothing. It’s a period set for a radio studio. All the sound effects are done live on stage by a foley artist,” Nelms said. “The music is done by just the piano player and the cast for all the background music. And there’s a couple commercial jingles in the 40s radio style. It’s a lot of fun.”
An “Applaud” sign, traditionally used in radio and TV to cue clapping, will also signal audience members when to applaud throughout the show. “On Air” signs are also used during the play.
Village Players’ interpretation
The Village Players adaptation of It’s A Wonderful Life, A Live Radio Play, will be different from other adaptations of the show, as they have staged it more as a play than the traditional radio show.
“The characters are moving around. Sometimes they have the radio scripts in their hand. Sometimes they don’t,” Nelms said. “In the 40s, in the studios, the characters would come and go to the microphones, and they’d be in the back with coffee and cigarettes, and they’d come up and have their pages. So you’re seeing what it’s like to be in the studio at the time with people performing.”
Only five actors will be playing the characters, according to Nelms.
“So they’re doing other dialects, other voices, and they’re performing different characters back to back,” Nelms said. “So they’re constantly changing characters and changing voices, changing dialects. It’s a challenge for an actor, and they have to be able to sing.”
Tickets to It’s A Wonderful Life, A Live Radio Play can be purchased on The Village Players website for $20, $15 for students.
“I just want people to come and enjoy this holiday classic, have a little cheer in their life and walk out with a smile on their face,” Nelms said.
For more information on It’s A Wonderful Life, A Live Radio Play, visit thevillageplayers.org.
The Croswell’s It’s A Broadway Holiday Ring in the holidays Dec. 13 through Dec. 15 with songs from recent Croswell productions and a sing-along featuring classic jingles of the season along with popular Broadway hits. Enjoy festive tunes, dazzling performances and the joyful spirit of the season. Tickets at croswell.org.
An Evening with Peter Billingsley and A Christmas Story
Head to the Stranahan Theater for a Q&A with Peter Billingsley after a screening of A Christmas Story. VIP tickets available with a personal pre-show photo opportunity with Billingsley, who played Ralphie Parker in the film. 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd. Ticket prices $25 to $104. Friday, Dec. 20 at 7 pm. 419-381-8851. stranahantheater.com/events
DECEMBER 2024 UPCOMING
GLORIOUS LIGHT HOLIDAY CONCERT SERIES
SATURDAY, DEC 14- 7:00PM St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 1690 West Sterns Rd., Temperance, MI 48182
FRIDAY, DEC 20 - 7:00PM
Maumee United Methodist Church, 405 Sackett St., Maumee, OH 43537
SUNDAY, DEC 22 - 1:00 PM Historic Church of St. Patrick, 130 Avondale Ave., Toledo, OH 43604
This holiday concert series is free to attend and will feature your favorite Christmas carols, as well as hymns and folk songs in Polish, Hebrew, and Russian.
BOOK NOTES
Adult Book Fair
Earnest Brew Works Westgate, 3142 Central Ave. is hosting a Grown-Up Book Fair on Thursday, Dec. 5 from 5 pm to 9 pm. Browse from a huge selection of books and find your next read at the Adult Book Fair. Ages 21 and up only. eventbrite.com
Poetry Workshop
Toledo Library West Toledo branch is hosting an 8-week course beginning on Wednesday, Dec. 4. Poetry, Prompts and Pens will be held every Wednesday from 11 am to 12:30 pm. Attendees will learn about writing poetry, with different prompts given to inspire writers. Attendance to all sessions is vital, as information builds from each previous session. toledo.libnet.info
Listen and Draw
Join Toledo Library at the Main Branch for Listen to a Book and Draw on Monday, Dec. 9 from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm. This relaxing event will include a reading from the Chicken Soup for the Soul series. Attendees are invited to draw what inspires them during the event. Supplies will be provided. For ages 18 and up. events.toledolibrary.org
CITY PAGES
Kenneth Sprce, reviews the history of discrimination by the U.S.
The Education of America
The ongoing fight for equality
By Kaylin Pickett
Native Toledoan, Kenneth Spruce is preparing to release his third book Allan Bakke, Affirmative Action, the University of Cincinnati and The Spruce Report in the spring of 2025. His goal in writing this book is to educate younger generations about the history of equality in America while encouraging them to continue the fight.Spruce is also an activist, educator and entrepreneur. He has been a manager in the City of Toledo Department of Economic and Community Development, an associate professor of political science at Clark Atlanta University and a Baptist deacon. Currently, Spruce is the president and CEO of a publishing company which assists new and seasoned writers with financial resources, writing support and literary consultation.
Affirmative action in 2024
In his newest book, Spruce references his past work concerning affirmative action policy, “The Spruce Report”, which he co-authored in 1978. Affirmative action is a set of policies, promulgated by the government, to benefit marginalized communities and to combat discrimination in employment and education.
In 2023 the US Supreme Court reversed the law which underpinned affirmative action efforts, which effectively stopped colleges and universities from making admission decisions based on race. Spruce’s hope in writing his latest book is to draw attention to the importance of affirmative action in higher education, specifically the University of Cincinnati.
“The whole purpose of the book is to educate young people about the history of how we got where we are today, and to alert them,” Spruce said. “You guys need to get up and start fighting, because that’s how we got what we have – by fighting.”
A call to action
Spruce views this book as a call to action for younger generations to fight to keep affirmative action relevant in public and private universities, while ensuring that future generations have the opportunities fought for by older generations.
“You guys need to get up and start fighting, because that’s how we got what we have – by fighting.”
-K. Spruce
Spruce has been working on the book for seven and a half years and the size of the project has expanded since he began writing. He began with the work that he had done with Anthony Adams in 1978 when they were students at the University of Cincinnati. During the writing, he realized that he could reach a larger audience if he expanded the issues he discussed in the book. “My professors taught me very well that if you have an issue and you make it expansive, you’re gonna have a much larger audience,” Spruce explains. That realization adjusted the focus from the University of Cincinnati in 1978 to the entire country and all 400 years of its history. Spruce uses the history of the University of Cincinnati as a case study for the history of discrimination in the U.S. With 30 interviews completed for the book, Spruce hopes to include a few more before the book is published. He recently released a small excerpt from the book to a few of his supporters so they are able to see the progress that he has made. Spruce plans to self-publish the book by spring of 2025 and is looking for donations to help defray those costs.
For more information visit linkedin.com/in/professor-spruce/
ART TO HEART
Darby Lane Designs Co
Empowering women through jewelry
By Audrey Blaufuss
Darby Fogt began making polymer clay jewelry as a hobby, alongside her corporate job, to fuel her creativity. She began selling earrings and other jewelry in 2021 at art fairs and online via Etsy. Contented by the balance her side business brings her, Fogt’s main goal is to bring a little joy and color into the lives of her customers and to empower women through her art.
Start with a color
Fogt, a Defiance, Ohio native and current Grand Rapids, Michigan resident, began looking for a hobby that would satisfy her need for creativity in 2020 when she stumbled upon polymer clay earrings. Always a craft-loving person, she quickly fell in love with the process. “I start with a color. I don’t always have a design in mind when I start, but I just love color so I let that be my guide,” Fogt explains.
After discovering the love of making the earrings, Fogt’s business, Darby Lane Designs Co., quickly took off and she now sells her jewelry at various art fairs/markets in the midwest and online via her Etsy store.
Darby Lane Designs Co has a wide variety of styles of earrings from simplistic designs to very intricate hand painted items. The fall and holiday styles are some of Fogt’s most popular and sell well, including dangle skeleton earrings made entirely from polymer clay and gingerbread house earrings for the holiday season. Among some of Fogt’s favorite styles of earrings she’s made over the years are the spooky skeletons, glow in the dark luna moths and dangle Lucky Charms, featuring all of the marshmallows.
Empowering women
One of Fogt’s main inspirations in running Darby Lane Designs Co is to empower women. “A lot of people including myself deal with self image issues. And knowing that feeling of
BYO Craft Hang
20 North Gallery presents Robert Garcia: All Sides Now
This retrospective solo exhibit, with new and legacy artworks in magical realism featuring oil paintings, watercolor, paper mache, ceramics and bronze sculpture, runs through Dec. 21. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Sunday noon to 4 pm. Appointments are available for other times. Free. 20northgallery.com
putting on a new outfit and feeling good, feeling confident, that’s what I want my earrings to do for people,” Fogt said. For Fogt, watching people light up after buying a pair of earrings and immediately putting them on and smiling is the best part of the job.
She has taken that customer interaction to the next level by naming different styles of earrings after repeat customers and other women she admires. “I think it’s empowering for people to see themselves represented so if someone comes looking for a pair of Stephanie earrings, I have that for them,” Fogt said.
Another way Fogt represents empowerment in her business is through the cards that the earrings are displayed on. Each card has a woman’s face on it with a different race and ethnicity. “I wanted my cards to be different and diverse and fun. They are eye-catching and I get a lot of compliments on them,” Fogt said. She stands firm in the belief that empowered people empower other people, so contributing to that, in any small way, is important to her.
The art fair scene
Although Fogt’s jewelry is available for purchase on Etsy she gets more traction and more enjoyment out of selling at art fairs and markets. A repeat seller of the Apple Butter Festival in Grand Rapids, Fogt also sells at shows in Toledo like Wild About Art at The Toledo Zoo, using the opportunity to visit her parents, who currently reside in Waterville. Additionally, she sells at various fairs and locations in Michigan and Indiana.
The in-person interaction with her customers and repeat fans of her designs is what makes it all worth it.
“When I’m at the Apple Butter Festival people come and look for me every year and there’s no bigger compliment than people looking for you year after year.”
instagram.com/darbylanedesignsco.
Vod hosts an evening of crafting and sewing every Tuesday throughout the month at Vod’s Here, Sewing & Crafting Emporium, 2910 W Central Ave. For December join Michelle on Dec. 3, Dec. 10 and Dec. 17 from noon to 2 pm and 7 pm to 9 pm. Bring your own project to work on or purchase a craft kit at the shop. Registration required. Limit of eight participants. $10/ person. tidycal.com/ vodshere/crafty-hang
ART EVENTS
Bernadine Rais: Souvenirs
This collection of oil paintings by local artist Bernadine Rais transports viewers into the enchanting world of nocturnal suburban landscapes. Runs through Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. toledomuseum.org
Small Sizes, Big Ideas Show
Explore big ideas brought to life on a small scale! Features compelling works rendered on compact panels or paper. Runs through Friday, Jan. 31, 2025. Toledo Artists’ Club - Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. toledoartistclub.com
Robert Garcia: All Sides Now
This solo exhibit of new and legacy artworks in the artist’s signature style of magical realism runs through Dec. 21. 20 North Gallery, 18 N. St. Clair Street. 20northgallery.com
Strategic Interplay: African Art and Imagery in Black and White
This exhibit explores connections between African art and the ancient game of chess. Runs through Feb. 23, 2025. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. toledomuseum.org
Toledo School for the Arts’ First Fridays
This one-hour session of works in-progress by TSA students is both in-person and online. Reception starts at 9 am on Dec.6 with a short 30-minute performance in the Black Box Studio. Tours available after the performance. RSVP (required) by calling 419-246-8732. ts4arts.org
FRI. 6 - SUN. 8
Heralding the Holidays
The artisans and fine craftspeople of the Artist Village invite you to their annual sale, offering a wide array of unique gift ideas for everyone on your list! Friday, 4-8pm. Saturday, 10am5pm. Sunday, 11am-4pm. Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. artvillage419.org
THUR. 19
Telesonic 9000
The Berlin-based solo project of Toledo-native drummer and producer Dominick Gray blends kinetic art rock with archival mashup film imagery, crafting a unique multimedia experience. His immersive live shows seamlessly remix the past into the future. Tickets $20. 7pm. The Portal at Toledo School for the Arts, 1401 Adams St. theportalattsa.com
FRI. 27 - SUNDAY 29
The Great Art Escape
Bring friends and family for a festive experience full of art, music and winter cheer! 11am. Also on Saturday, Dec. 28 and Sunday, Dec. 29, 11am. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St. toledomuseum.org
LISTEN HEAR
Zak Ward Digs Deeper With Quader Guitars
30 years of experience playing and working in music
By Tanner Wertz
Music is an artform that takes people on a wondrous journey. Some players tour in bands, while some are collectors who play at home. Each musical journey is unique. Zak Ward of Quader Guitars believes everyone should have the opportunity to build their own guitar during their journey.
Quader Guitars: Yesterday
Zak Ward, a Perrysburg native, has an entrepreneurial spirit. “People that are artists and musicians have the creativity and drive to be an entrepreneur. It’s in my blood. It’s an opportunity to be creative and to make people happy. I realize that as I’ve been playing in bands since 1994,” Ward explains.
Ward’s pioneering spirit, which took shape early in his musical journey, continued while he went through college and started a website development business. He then founded a 3D imaging business, before selling guitars for Ken Haas, CEO of Reverend Guitars. After 10 years as Reverend’s Sales Manager, Ward became the Sales Manager for Souldier Straps, a manufacturer of guitar and musical straps.
Ward’s interest in building guitars started during the pandemic, when he was working from home for Reverend. The first two guitars Ward built were played by friends during shows. That provided an chance for him to sit back to watch and listen. The friends’ critiques helped shape his approach moving forward. “Guitar players are pretty opinionated people, and many of their opinions are constructive,” Ward remarked.
Quader (noun): cuboid, rectangular solid
The origin of the name“Quader” comes from Ward’s fascination with words beginning with “Q” and a mathematical term referencing a design element.
Quader Guitars: Today
Now, in 2024, a number of Toledo area guitar players are using Quader Guitars including Frank May, Patrick Caligiuri, Justin Marchand and Brian Chandley. Ward comments, “it’s an honor for someone to buy [a handcrafted guitar] from you. It’s like writing a song and seeing someone cover it in front of you.”
Quader Guitars are built one at a time by Ward in his garage workshop. As he’s building the guitar, he sends photos showing the progress and invites the recipient to help with the building of their guitar. Ward has a list of people who have ordered hand-built guitars from Quader to be delivered in 2025.
Quader Guitars: Tomorrow
Looking ahead, Ward’s main focus is building a limited number of guitars while updating Quader’s YouTube channel, which provides help and inspiration for viewers on their guitar-building journeys.
“I want my YouTube channel to be a place where people can watch the journey, getting tips and tricks that are learned along the way while demo-ing the products. I learned the vast majority of guitar building from watching other people or factory walkthroughs on YouTube.”
Ward relates “The tagline I should use is ‘everyone should build their own guitar in some capacity.’ [The build] doesn’t have to be from scratch, but working with your hands and understanding the different components of a guitar brings you closer to what a lot of guitarists search for, which is hard to put into words. The journey is about appreciating the art of music.”
Highlighted events indicates our picks for the week
Christmas w/ Libby Servais and Stephan Stubbins (holiday)
The
SUN, DEC 8
Rosary Cathedral: Handel’s Messiah (choral)
Theater: A Motown Christmas (soul)
Village Idiot: Jazz & Open Mic Majestic Oak Winery: Kaiden Chase (acoustic)
MON, DEC 9 Levi
WED, DEC 11
THUR, DEC 12
FRI, DEC 13
SAT,
(jazz) Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Lucas & Angelica (acoustic)
Village Idiot: 2 Left Missing (rock), Cactus
Indoor Theater: A Musical Merry
River Raisin Centre for the Arts: Jacob Sacks is Home for the Holidays with the Monroe High Band (jazz)
Pat & Dandy’s: Random Act (rock)
Bier Stube: Pop’s Garage (pop rock)
Bar 145: Christmas on Monroe - DJ (electronic)
Kickstand Saloon: N.T.O. (rock)
Frankie’s: Oso Oso (rock)
Hollywood Casino: Distant Cousinz (pop rock)
SUN, DEC 15
Gesu Catholic Church: Christmas Concert with Ramona Collins & Kevin
MON, DEC
TUE, DEC
WED, DEC
Jacob Sacks and Monroe High Band
Monroe High Band joins Jacob Sacks for a special performance, Home for the Holiday on Saturday, Dec. 14 at 7:30 pm, River Raisin Centre for the Arts, 114. S. Monroe St., Monroe, MI. Jacob Sacks, a Monroe-native pianist in the NYC Jazz Scene joins the band to perform holiday songs. facebook.com/event
Christmas Big Band Gala
The Christmas Big Band Gala, hosted by Oak Shade Grove takes place Saturday, Dec. 7 from 6 pm to 10 pm. Bring yourself back to the roaring twenties during this special event, featuring Night Session Big Band. Enjoy free swing dances and live music. Tickets $40. Proceeds donated to Mountain Mentors. facebook.com/event
THUR, DEC
FRI,
Room: Rick Caswell (acoustic)
Bar 145: Amelia Airhearts (rock) Kickstand Saloon: Middle Age Arcade (rock) Majestic Oak Winery: Scott & Ryan (acoustic)
SAT, DEC 21
Bar 145: Mike “Mad Dog” Adams (acoustic), Decade Divide (pop rock)
The Village Idiot: J. Michael & the Heavy Burden (rock), Jordan & Josh with Evan & Steve (acoustic)
Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Cara Taylor (acoustic)
Lucille’s Jazz Lounge: Sheila Fleming (jazz)
Toledo Museum of Art: A Very Jazzy Christmas (holiday, jazz)
Bier Stube: NOT FAST ENÜFF (rock) Wheelin’ on the Rocks: Random Act (rock)
Kickstand Saloon: Orlando Finelli (acoustic)
Jeremy Arndt at Yogaja Yoga
Jeremy Arndt Music will perform at Yogaja Yoga, 3145 Central Ave. on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 5-9pm. Arndt has performed all over the United States, and several countries. Enjoy listening to Arndt create music with several instruments including the handpan, guitar, synthesizer and more. toledolegalnews.com
Hollywood Casino: Bill Cherry - Elvis Tribute (rock)
Majestic Oak Winery: Joe & Shuey (acoustic)
SUN, DEC 22
Majestic Oak Winery: Ramona & Trez (jazz)
MON, DEC 23
Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Jake Pilewski (acoustic)
The Village Idiot: Steve Kennedy (acoustic)
TUE, DEC 24
The Village Idiot: Kyle Smithers & Josh Silas (acoustic)
WED, DEC 25
The Village Idiot: Caswell & Co. (rock)
THUR, DEC 26
Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Tim Oehlers (acoustic)
FRI, DEC 27
The Village Idiot: Day Drinkers (rock), House Band (rock), Funk Factory (rock)
Tékēla Sylvania: Rob Storm (acoustic)
Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Aaron Krott (acoustic)
Bier Stube: The Cheeks (rock)
Ottawa Tavern: Emo Night (alternative rock)
Hollywood Casino: Pop’s Garage (pop rock)
Majestic Oak Winery: Distant Cousinz Duo (acoustic)
Bar 145: Hard Candy (pop rock)
SAT, DEC 28
The Village Idiot: Bowling League (rock), Baccano (rock)
Benfield Wines: Ramona Collins (jazz)
Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Cindy Slee (acoustic)
Wolcott House: Robbie Clark (acoustic)
Lucille’s Jazz Lounge: Chris Canas (blues)
Bier Stube: Everyday People 419 (soul)
Bar 145: Reckless Highway (country)
Majestic Oak Winery: Gypsy Luvin’ (acoustic)
Kickstand Saloon: Jeremy McClellans Open
J.A.M. (rock)
Hollywood Casino: The Menus (rock)
SUN DEC 29
Wolcott House: Robbie Clark (acoustic) Majestic Oak Winery: Jaime Mills (acoustic)
MON, DEC 30
Levi & Lilac’s Whiskey Room: Jake Pilewski (acoustic)
The Village Idiot: Frank May (acoustic)
TUE, DEC 31
The Village Idiot: Bobby May & Dale Beagle (acoustic), Echo Record (indie rock)
Sneaky Pete’s: Random Act (rock)
Hollywood Casino: The Skittlebots (pop rock)
THE BIG TO DO
SUN., Dec. 1
[markets & shopping]
Crafts for Christmas - Handmade juried crafts, gifts and holiday decorations. 11am-4pm. Lucas County Recreation Center, 2901 Key St., Maumee. toledocraftsmansguild.org
[floristry]
Grinch Tree Class - Get into the holiday spirit as you design and decorate your tree with a variety of grinch decor. Tickets on Eventbrite. $34.95. 11am-noon. Beautiful Blooms by Jen, 5675 Main St., Sylvania. b eautifulbloomsbyjen.com
[parades]
Maumee Holiday Light Parade - Grab a hot cocoa and enjoy the parade. The parade will start on Conant Street at the Maumee Indoor Theatre, and travel to West Wayne Street then Ford Street. Uptown Maumee, Conant St., Maumee. maumeeuptown.com. Free
MON., Dec. 2
[pets, Santa]
Santa Pet Party - Bring your furry friends to meet Santa at Santa’s House in The Shops at Fallen Timbers. Featuring adoptable pets from Toledo Humane Society! Reservations are required. $20-$50. 5-7pm. Santa’s House, The Shops at Fallen Timbers, 3100 Main St. Suite 1340 (former Justice store), Maumee. theshopsatfallentimbers.com
TUES., Dec. 3
[author & drinks]
Wine & Words | Beer & Books - With Author Darci Hannah - Meet the author and enjoy an adult beverage with them. Discuss A Fatal Feast at Bramsford Manor with author Darci Hannah, the first in a new series set at a haunted English manor. 6:30pm. Six Fifths Distilling, 120 South Boundary St., Perrysburg. gatheringvolumes.com
WED., Dec. 4
[meditation]
Healing Sound Bath - Join Erika Peters of Pura Vida Wellness for a healing sound bath. Donations are welcome. 6-7pm. Ordinary Pioneer, 6901 Providence St., Whitehouse. ordinarypioneer.com
[galas]
Toledo Newsboys Winter Gala - Celebrate the outstanding achievements of local youth over the past year. The special guest speaker for the night is none other than Chuck Ealey, a Toledo sports icon with an impressive legacy. Ticketed. $50. 6-9pm. The Premier, 4480 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo. toledonewsboys.org
THURS., Dec. 5
[fundraisers]
Winter Wonderland 2024 - Enjoy dinner, a silent auction, a table decorating contest and a wine pull. All proceeds going to Leading Families Home. Ticketed. $25-$200. 6-9pm. St. Clement Hall, 2990 Tremainsville Rd., Toledo. lfhtoledo.org
FRI., Dec. 6
[markets & shopping]
Miracle on Main Street - Downtown Sylvania comes alive with seasonal vendors offering unique shopping opportunities. 6pm. Also on Saturday, Dec. 7, 11am. Downtown Sylvania, Main St., Sylvania. redbirdsylvania.org
[comedy, stand up]
John Crist: Jokes for Humans - Known for his sharp observational humor and faith-based comedy. $33.75-$153.75. 7pm. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo. stranahantheater.com
SAT., Dec. 7
[holidays]
WINTERFEST: Libbey House - Tour the Libbey House exploring the magic of Christmas. $5. 11am-4pm. Libbey House, 2008 Scottwood Ave. libbeyhouse.org
[markets & shopping]
Holiday Night Market - Enjoy a throwback department store experience.Two levels filled with local artisans, one-of-a-kind gift ideas, food, drinks and music. 4-10pm. Fifth Third Building, One Seagate. toledonightmarket.com
SUN., Dec. 8
[markets & shopping]
Christmas by the Lake Gift Market - Enjoy holiday shopping at the historic Toledo Yacht Club with local vendors and artisans, a cash bar, a bake sale and poinsettias. The Toledo Yacht Club, 3900 N Summit St.
[concerts]
Handel’s Messiah - Experience the power of music at Rosary Cathedral, as Alain Trudel and the Toledo Symphony bring this masterpiece to life. Ticketed. $40. 4pm. Rosary Cathedral, 2535 Collingwood Blvd. artstoledo.com
MON., Dec. 9
[fitness]
Dancing Through the Decades with Elaina Hernandez
This Zumba dance class will feature music from the 50’s through today - there will be something for everyone to enjoy! 6:30-7:30pm. Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St. toledolibrary.org
TUES., Dec. 10
[meditation]
Mindfulness and Creativity - with the Toledo Mindfulness Institute - This workshop explores the intersection of creativity and intentional presence. Registration is required. 6-7pm. Point Place Branch Library, 2727 117th St. toledolibrary.org. Free
[women]
Woman to Woman - Hosted by YWCA of Northwest Ohio. Highlighting the importance of individual and collective action, discover how to be more vigilant and supportive to victims of abuse. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. $100. Inverness Club, 4601 Dorr St. ywcanwo.org
WED., Dec. 11
[crocheting]
Intro to Crochet - Learn how to tie a slip knot, how to chain stitch (the foundation of crochet), and the single crochet stitch in this fun introductory class. Register online. $50. The 577 Foundation, 577 E. Front St., Perrysburg. 577foundation.org
[caregiving]
Can We Talk? How to Have Better Conversations with Your Older Relative - As we age, both the brain and body undergo physical and cognitive changes that can impact how we communicate and understand others. This program will explore those changes and provide practical strategies to enhance communication with older adults. In-person and virtual. MemoryLane Care Services, 2500 N. Reynolds Rd. memorylanecareservices.org/events
SAT, Dec. 6 - SUN, Dec. 7
Toledo Zoo’s Lights Before Christmas
Nov. 22 - Dec. 31
The Zoo’s festive lighting will continue until Dec. 31. Experience the holidays with colorful decor, delicious snacks, warm beverages and, of course, Santa’s helpers – the animals. Enjoy the magic! Check ticket pricing at toledozoo.org/events/lights.
Toledo SantaCon 2024
Dec. 14 at 1 pm
Jingle and mingle and have a holly jolly time during this Pub Crawl when you can dress up as your favorite holiday character. Head to the first location, The Bronze Boar, on Dec. 14 at 1 pm. Check-in until 4 pm to obtain an event wristband. Tickets are required and needed for access to participating bars. Visit SantaCon Pub Crawl on pubcrawls.com for more.
Winter Festival of Crafts
Sunday, Dec. 15 from 10 am to 4 pm.
This annual event, hosted at the Franciscan Center at Lourdes University, is Sunday, Dec. 15 from 10 am to 4 pm. Purchase quality hand-crafted items from a member of the Toledo Craftsman’s Guild. The wares include jewelry, holiday wreaths, seasonal decor, home decor, fabric, fragrances, painting, photography and more. Admission and parking are free. toledocraftsmansguild.org
FRI., Dec. 13
[crafts]
The Holiday Knockout Class - Knock out 10 gifts at once with Callisto Terra’s Holiday making event. Registration is required. Noon-6pm. Also on Saturday, Dec. 14, 4-6pm and Sunday, Dec. 15, noon-4pm. $150. Callisto Terra, 5223 Hill Ave. callistoterra.com
[cosplay & shopping]
Fantasy Festive - Holiday MarketExplore a wonderland of small business shopping with unique, handcrafted gifts from various fandoms perfect for the season. 3-9pm. The Toledo Club, 235 14th St. gatheringofkingdoms.com
[theater]
It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio
Play - The beloved holiday classic comes to life live on stage as a 1940’s radio broadcast. Ticketed. 7pm. Also on Saturday, Dec. 14, 7pm and Sunday, Dec. 15, 2pm. The Village Players Theatre, 2740 Upton Ave. thevillageplayers.org
[climbing]
SUN., Dec 15 [markets &
Shop Local At These Holiday Markets
Holiday Tree Climb (Adults and 8+) - Take this festive season to new heights at this annual holiday tree climbing experience. Registration is required. $35. 7:30-9pm. Toledo Botanical Garden, 5403 Elmer Dr. metroparkstoledo.com
SAT., Dec. 14
[Christmas, parades]
Light Up the Night - Christmas carolers throughout the day, shop specials, cookies, crafts and a free hot cocoa bar. End your night watching the Light up the Night Parade. 9am. Downtown Grand Rapids, Front St., Grand Rapids. visitgrandrapidsohio.com
TUES., Dec. 17 [gingerbread
WED, May 1
Holly Dickens Festival
The charming historic downtown hosts the annual Dickens Festival with costumed carolers, carriage rides, family activities, shopping and more. Centrally located to Frankenmuth and Glenlore Trails. Weekends Nov. 30 - Dec. 15. Downtown Holly, Maple St., Holly, MI. hollydickensfestival.org
Kris Kringle Markt Experience the holiday spirit in Downtown Tiffin, OH, with retail shopping, a Europeanstyle open-air market, dining and festive German/Bavarian-inspired Christmas events. 5-9 pm. Also on Sunday, Dec. 7, 3-9 pm. Downtown Tiffin, Washington St., Tiffin. KrisKringleMarktTiffinoh.com
SAT, Dec. 7
50th Annual Noel Night
Noel Night in Midtown Detroit celebrates diverse holiday traditions across arts institutions, historic churches, galleries and small businesses, offering free performances and holiday experiences for all. 11am-9pm. Midtown Detroit, Woodward Ave., Detroit. noelnight.org
WED., Dec. 18
[book
THURS., Dec. 19 [lunch,
Noon-1:30pm. HeArt Galleries & Studio, 428 N. Erie St. heartgalleryandstudios.com
FRI, Dec. 6 - SAT, Dec. 7 and SAT., Dec. 15
Krampusmarkt: Handmade Holiday Bazaar and Momento Merry: A Dark Artisan Holiday Market
Holy Bones annual two-day holiday celebration with a dark twist! This year’s market will showcase over 50 local artisans offering unique handmade goods, from Krampus-themed crafts to memorable gifts. 5-9pm. Also on Saturday, Dec. 7, 1-9pm. Holy Bones will also feature Momento Merry: A Dark Artisan Holiday Market on Saturday, Dec. 15, 11am-4pm. Ypsilanti Freight House, 100 Market Pl., Ypsilanti. @holybonesfestival
FRI., Dec. 20
[film, Christmas] An Evening with Peter Billingsley and A Christmas
[film]
classic Christmas fantasy drama on the big screen. Ticketed. $5. 7:30pm. Also on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2pm. The Valentine Theatre, 410 N Superior St. valentinetheatre.com
SAT., Dec. 21
[birdwatching]
Count Birds Because Birds Count! - Learn about resident feathered friends through bird activities and games. All ages. This program coincides with Audubon’s 125th Christmas Bird Count. $3. Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, 4139 Girdham Rd., Swanton. metroparkstoledo.com
[holidays]
Winter Solstice Potluck Event - SHoWLE will be celebrating the Winter Solstice with a potluck-style get-together. Keynote speaker Gloria Steinem will join via Zoom. 4-8pm. Swan Creek Preserve Metropark, 4659 Airport Hwy. humanistswle.org
[bars]
Toledo Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl - A holiday bar crawl is the perfect way to mix festive spirit with good laughs. Whether you’re rocking a tacky sweater, sipping festive cocktails, or just enjoying the company of friends, it’s bound to be a night to remember. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. $14.99-$24.99. 5-11pm. Bronze Boar, 20 South Huron St. PubCrawls.com
MON., Dec. 23
[games]
Twas the Night Before the Night Before Christmas Join Flip the Table for a pre-Christmas bash. 6pm. Flip the Table, 3136 Central Ave. flipthetabletoledo.com
FRI., Dec. 27
[bars, alternative rock]
Emo Night - Ottawa Tavern will be playing all of the old hits and deep cuts from the golden age of emo. $5. 7pm. Ottawa Tavern, 1817 Adams St. @ot.toledo
[improv]
The Monthly: A Comedy Improv Show - Join Glass City Improv for an evening of laughs. Tickets will go on sale 2 weeks prior to the show. 8:30pm. $10. Studio A, 410 Adams St. glasscityimprov.com
SAT., Dec. 28
[crafts]
Manifestation Workshop - Create tools to help on your journey of manifesting & living intentionally. Register online. $44.44. 5-7pm. Callisto Terra, 5223 Hill Ave. callistoterra.com
TOLEDO ACCORDING TO...
Caylee Kirby
Years lived in Toledo: 5 Occupation: Anchor, WTOL-11
My short story: I grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada. After college I decided I wanted to move for journalism, and got a job in Michigan. I was there for about 11 months and then I moved to Toledo for my job at WTOL. I anchor the morning news, and have been for about a year. Before that, I was the weekend morning anchor, and before that I was a reporter.
The local coffee shops and the Farmers’ Market are the places in Toledo I’m most proud of.
The best meal I had in Toledo was the pasta at Calvino’s
Lights Before Christmas at the Toledo Zoo is my favorite annual event.
Two businesses Toledo needs (but doesn’t have) is a chain sub shop called Port of Subs and a chain coffee shop called Dutch Bros.
My favorite piece of local art/architecture is the word sign “You Are Beautiful” at the docks.
I’m at my most calm in Toledo when I’m at the Metroparks
The street I drive on/walk on most often is Central Avenue or Dorr Street.
The best time I ever had in Toledo was at the German American Festival because I spent the whole night hanging out there with my coworkers.
One thing I’ve always meant to do in Toledo, but haven’t, is visit all of our Metroparks.
If I could change one thing about Toledo, I would make it a little bit bigger
If Toledo had a new motto, it would be “Ope.”
The best view in Toledo is from the mayor’s office
When I’m away from Toledo, I can’t wait to visit Star Diner when I get back.
The Toledo business you’ll most likely find me at is SIP Coffee.
The most underrated thing in Toledo is the community feel.
I always brag about Toledo’s lack of traffic
Chrys Peterson and Jerry Anderson are the Toledoans I most admire.
Maker’s Mart Holiday 2024
The Marker’s Mart is an annual craft fair featuring handmade items, artisanal food and more from over 70 local and regional artists. Toledoans gathered for good cheer with the 2024 Fall/Holiday market in late November.
photos by Christine Senack
Jessica Hildreth, Maureen Brogan, Courtney Bache and Missi Burchett.
Mark Cole and Jordan Buschur.
Jenn & Abby Stucker Hannah Huysken and Lea Pettaway.
Michelle Fisher and Sabrina Schroeder.
SPEAK THE STARS CROSS WORD
by Janet Amid
SAGITTARIUS - (NOV. 22 - DEC. 21) During this Mars retrograding in your 9th House of higher consciousness, you may end up revisiting old beliefs, as well as reassessing long term goals and visions. This is a good time to focus on future needs and desires. Sometimes retrogrades bring to light a much needed desire to tap into unresolved life directives. Allow yourself the opportunity to tap in. Seek and you shall find. This is a very strong philosophical place to be as it can stir up spiritual insights
TAURUS - (April 20 - May 20)
Mars retrograding in your area of home highlights family life. You may feel a sudden push pull between your own desires and also family obligations. This is a time to reflect on how you express yourself in a domestic fashion. Highlighting the need to understand setting limits between work and home is important during this transit. It’s all about delegating.
GEMINI (May 21 - June 20) For all you Geminis out there, as Mars retrogrades in Leo, though very much in sync with your own astrological sign, it may hinder communication efforts as you find yourself feeling misunderstood. It could also be creating delays in projects or anything that is on your To Do list. Focus on clarifying your intentions, while double checking important details with everything and anything you do.
CANCER - (June 21 - July 22)
Most Cancers, as a rule, are very financially astute, as well as cautious when it comes to money matters. However, during this month, financial themes take center stage with Mars retrograding in your money house. You may see yourself a bit more relaxed with big purchases or investments. So use this time to rethink your spending habits and how you value personal possessions.
LEO - (July 23 - Aug 22)
JUMP SCARE
By Brendan Emmett Quigley
Across 1. Place to live
8. QB who was benched for Brady while on the Patriots
15. Song before a Raptors game
16. Piano ___
17. Pitched during the World Series, say?
18. Bread-winners
19. Scary stuff that sticks with you
21. Cutting rooms?: Abbr.
22. They might open some doors at businesses
23. Bridge accomplishment
26. “Going Back To ___” (1989 LL Cool J single)
28. Hosts, briefly
29. Arsenal shots, at times
30. Stand-up comic with the album “Harmful If Swallowed”
32. Awaited judgment
33. Motel’s kin
34. Cunning
36. Kitchen brand with a palindromic name
37. Sawed wood loudly
39. Rapper of the “Fast & Furious” franchise
41. Manuscript volume
42. Beaver’s construction
43. Birmingham bathrooms
44. “That’s enough”
45. Halloween cry
46. Yankees pitcher Luis ___
47. Red Bull rival
53. Bring to life
55. “Almost done”
56. Some appetizers
57. Country with a red and white checker
board on its coat of arms
58. Paintings done on rotating canvases
59. Actor Choi of “9-1-1”71. Bad guys in bedtime stories
72. Bearded animal
73. Bee lookalike
Down
1. Bull’s weapon
2. Berry in some poke bowls
3. End with a ___ 4. Saddled with debt
5. Time when busy people take things slow
6. “Summer of ‘69” singer
7. Word said with a bow
8. Litters?
9. Rummages (through)
10. Neutral color
11. Has for supper
12. Big name in breadsticks
13. Kayak rental 14. Hollow center?
20. “Hairspray” star
24. “Democracy in America” author de Tocqueville
25. Operating system with a command line
26. Is unable to
27. Dating word
28. Duff Beer server
29. Find out information about
30. Box set components
31. Smelling of mothballs
32. Last deg.
35. Wrigley’s field?
38. Film where people are looking for a Chevrolet Malibu
40. Big name in camping gear
42. Hate, hate, hate
45. Perfume compound
46. Movie class?
48. West Coast wine valley
49. Plymouth ___
50. Mechanical learning method
51. Sandpaper feature
52. “I hear ya”
53. They bring the heat down: Abbr.
54. Quick shuteye
With Mars retrograding in your own sign you may feel like your usual confidence and boisterous personality is lessened. Energy levels are tested. This is a time for self reflection, as you may find yourself a little bit more prone to delving into the past. This could also be an unpredictable time, as it can bring matters to the surface that have been laying beneath the surface.
VIRGO - (Aug 23 - Sept 22)
During Mars retrograding your 12th house of the hidden, frustrations or unresolved issues from the past may surface. At this time, you may feel a sudden need to revisit past events or occurrences that should have been put to rest. This is an important time to heal inwardly as well as outwardly. Release, what no longer serves you.
LIBRA - (Sept 23 - Oct 22)
Friendships and social connections might feel a bit out of sync. You may find yourself more withdrawn and less inclined with group settings. In addition to this, you may experience a shift in how you view others. This would be a good time to focus on harmonizing relationships, as sometimes retrogrades force us to pay attention to what’s in front of us. Things that we choose not to see. This could also trigger issues revolving around children, or matters of the heart.
SCORPIO - (Oct 23 - Nov 21)
Knowledge is power. Career, professional progress, power struggles through work and home could occur during this time, so it’s important to gather as much insight and information as you can. This is your time to reassess long term goals and aspirations. To achieve, what has been on the back burner for a while. Your image is sacred, so work with it.
CAPRICORN - (Dec 22 - Jan 19)
During this period, with Mars transiting your 8th house of monies, financial entanglements could occur whether it is through partnerships business or personal. Be aware of starting a business or creating a joint venture during this time. If anything, address power dynamics by working on your dialogue. Either way, it’s best to hold off any major changes, if possible until after Feb. 25, 2025.
AQUARIUS - (Jan 20 - Feb 18)
As Mars, the planet of energy transits your area of partnerships, relationships and collaborations may hit a wall. During this time, you may need to reassess or redefine boundaries. Open communication is the key. In addition to this, eventually triggering your personal house, can shed light on you coming to terms with personal priorities. This is a highly intense transit. Use the energy to reinforce your better qualities. Not slow you down.
PISCES - (Feb 19 - March 19)
With Mars in transit of your 6th House of obligations, you may need to reevaluate your work/life balance. Paying better attention to your physical as well as mental well being is a must. Taking a mindful approach, and bringing to light matters that need resolution from the past can be helpful. Meditation. Yoga. Health and daily routine are the focus.
ARIES - (March 20 - April 19
During Mars retrograde in Leo, your motivation and drive be slightly dampened, leading to minor delays and creative outlooks. This would be an excellent time to reassess motivation and goals. Though, alternatively, working on your leadership abilities are key, as Mars, ruled by Aries, now retrograde in Leo can shift your energies in a different direction. In addition, Mercury in retrograde, can also cause you to question your soul’s purpose. An intense month. Coast with it.
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. 419-882-5510 or JanetAmid@aol.com.
GET HEALTHY
Zen at the Zoo
Chill out with our Arctic animals. This all-levels yoga flow will take place at the Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way, in the Arctic Encounter, alongside the Seals, Sea lions and Polar bears.
Following yoga, you’ll have a chance to meet the Arctic keepers and witness some exciting enrichment with snacks and sips in hand. Diana Spiess of Essence Mind Body Studio leads the flow. Afterward, enjoy a light breakfast treat with refreshments – guests over the age of 21 can get mimosas. Sunday, Dec. 8 at 1 pm. toledozoo.org
Owens Community College operates a Dental Hygiene Clinic
Opened in the fall of 2024, the dental clinic at Owens Community College is offering quality dental services at a reasonable cost to adults and children. The new clinic features licensed dental professionals and has 21 chairs available from September through May. Costs range from $5 to $35 on a sliding scale. The Clinic is located in Room 207 in the Health Technologies Hall, 320 1st St., on the Toledo-area campus. 567-661-6000. owens.edu
BGSU Mental Health First Aid Training
Thursday, Dec. 19 from 9 am to 5:30 pm, at BGSU’s Bowen-Thompson Student Union, attend a skill-based training to learn effective responses to signs of mental health or substance abuse challenges in adults. Registration is required. Call Ashley Hartman at 419-372-2531. bgsu.edu
CLASSIFIEDS
PERSONALS
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FOR SALE
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HEALTH/MEDICAL
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HEALTH/MEDICAL
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HEALTH/MEDICAL
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